Genetic identification of biological species in the Saccharomyces sensu stricto complex

Abstract

Studies on taxonomic and evolutionary genetics of the Saccharomyces sensu stricto complex are considered in light of the biological species concept. Genetic variability of some physiological properties traditionally used in yeast taxonomy is discussed. Genetic hybridization analysis and molecular karyotyping revealed six biological species in the Saccharomyces sensu stricto complex. DNA-DNA reassociation data are concordant with the data obtained by genetic analysis. A new system for naming the cultivated Saccharomyces yeast (groups of cultivars) is proposed. © 1996 Society for Industrial Microbiology.