Taxonomy

Question 1

The most specific and exclusive taxon used in the classification of microorganisms is:
a. Family
b. Order
c. Species
d. Genus

Answer 1

c. Species

Question 2

The process consisting of a series of methods designed to provide the microbiologist with relevant and useful clinical information about a microorganism is:
a. Classification
b. Identification
c. Organization
d. Taxonomy

Answer 2

b. Identification

Question 3

Classification and naming or organisms is useful in diagnostic microbiology for all of the following except:
a. provides standardized groupings for identification
b. standardized groupings are always genotypically similar at >98%
c. standardized groupings share similar phenotypic traits
d. organisms within a standard group may be identified using
similar methods

Answer 3

a. provides standardized groupings for identification

Question 4

Label each of the following characteristics as either a phenotypic (P) or a genotypic (G) characteristic.

Color of growth on artificial media

Answer 4

phenotypic (P)

Question 5

Label each of the following characteristics as either a phenotypic (P) or a genotypic (G) characteristic.

The presence of an antibiotic resistance DNA sequence

Answer 5

genotypic (G)

Question 6

Label each of the following characteristics as either a phenotypic (P) or a genotypic (G) characteristic.

The shape of the bacterial cell

Answer 6

phenotypic (P)

Question 7

Label each of the following characteristics as either a phenotypic (P) or a genotypic (G) characteristic.

The arrangement of the bacterial cells on a microscope slide

Answer 7

phenotypic (P)

Question 8

Label each of the following characteristics as either a phenotypic (P) or a genotypic (G) characteristic.

The ability of the organism to ferment lactose

Answer 8

phenotypic (P)