TAXONOMIC STUDY OF CLINICAL ISOLATES OF PSEUDOMONAS-PICKETTII, PSEUDOMONAS-THOMASII AND GROUP-IVD BACTERIA

On the basis of cluster analysis, average similarities within and between groups, and DNA base composition of selected strains, Pseudomonas pickettii appeared to be a distinct species compromising several biotypes. Although some or all of these biotypes, represented by subclusters in this computer study, may ultimately warrant recognition as separate species, the results were not conclusive enough to warrant such a proposal at present. Most strains tentatively named 'P.thomasii' could be included in P.pickettii so that the name P.pickettii, which was validity published whilst 'P.thomassii' was not, takes priority over 'P.thomassii'. Strains of Group Va examined were also included in P.pickettii. Group IVd did not appear to be a natural group but some of the strains could also be included in P.pickettii.