Considering the Evolution of Bacteria, the Criteria Used for Taxonomy

question 56

Essay

Considering the evolution of Bacteria, the criteria used for taxonomy, and the genetic requirements for individual metabolic pathways, explain how it is unlikely to observe three genera of the same family where one genus has strict anaerobes that degrade only small aromatics, another genus degrades large molecular weight sugars aerobically, and a third is a photoautotroph.

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Definitions:

Secretes

The process by which cells or glands release substances, such as hormones or enzymes, either into the bloodstream or into cavities inside the body or its outer surface.

Inflammation

A biological response to harmful stimuli (e.g., pathogens, damaged cells), characterized by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and sometimes loss of function.

Phagocytic White Blood Cells

White blood cells that protect the body by ingesting harmful foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells.

Blood Vessels Dilate

The widening of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure and allows for increased blood flow to different parts of the body.