The classification of bacteria has historically been based on:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The classification of bacteria is based on microbial nutrition (such as their ability to break down certain substrates), physical appearance (such as cell shape), and how they move (such as the presence of flagella). Therefore, choice E is the best answer. Nutrient requirements (choice A) and pigments (choice D) can be helpful in identification, but they are not the basis for classification. Colony appearance (choice B) is also not sufficient for classification as it only describes how the bacteria grow on a culture plate. Lastly, while means of locomotion (choice C) plays a role in classification, it is not the only factor considered.

The Classification of Bacteria Has Historically Been Based On