Genomic approaches to yeast taxonomy

Abstract

Yeasts have ecological, medical and biotechnoloqical importance. They are primary drivers of global carbon cycle and they belong to the most valuable microorganisms for industrial applications. Despite their importance, yeast remain poorly classified, particularly at the level of strains. Accurate identification of yeasts is essential in medicine, biotechnology and for understanding interactions in the ecosystem. Our review will focus on genomic tools currently used in taxonomy of yeasts. © 2009 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.