[Genetic diversity of microorganisms].

Abstract

Microorganisms are important components of the biosphere in maintaining the ecological balance. With the development of molecular biology techniques, researches on the microbial genetic diversity have been developed from morphological and/or protein levels to molecular level. The development of high-throughout sequencing and metagenomics technology not only provide more abundant information and powerful evidence for understanding microbial diversities, but also have great significance for rational utilization and protection of biological resources. The advances in research on genetic diversity of microorganisms, such as separation and identification, population genetic structure, speciation, phylogeny, and evolution of microorganisms, were discussed in this paper.