Chapter 18, Problem 2Q

Why is it necessary to complete the identification of a bacterium on the basis of its physiology rather than its morphology?

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The necessity of the identification of a bacterium based on physiology and morphology.

Introduction:

Morphology is the structural components of an organism. The physiology is the study of the functional and chemical properties of the organism and the associated morphological structures.

Explanation of Solution

The bacteria are simple prokaryotes and most of them are similar in terms of appearance and structural details. So, due to the major morphological similarity between the bacterial species the identification of the virulence of the bacteria is not possible. However, the physiological traits of the bacteria are generally unique to each genus, which makes the study of virulence easy. It also helps in the determination of the possible toxins released by bacteria and its effect. Hence, studying physiology provides a good idea about the bacterial species.

Conclusion

The physiology of each species of bacteria is generally unique, although the morphology is more or less same in most of the bacterial species. Hence, physiology provides a better idea about a particular bacterial strain.