From the Research
The Enterobacteriaceae family is classified into several tribes based on biochemical properties and genetic relationships, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting six main clades within the family 1. The major tribes include Escherichia (containing Escherichia coli), Klebsielleae (including Klebsiella and Enterobacter), Proteeae (containing Proteus, Morganella, and Providencia), Yersinieae (including Yersinia), Salmonelleae (containing Salmonella), and Shigellae (including Shigella). Other significant tribes include Serratieae (with Serratia), Edwardsielleae (containing Edwardsiella), and Citrobactereae (including Citrobacter). This classification system helps microbiologists and clinicians understand relationships between these gram-negative bacteria, which is important for diagnosis and treatment of infections. The tribal classification reflects evolutionary relationships and shared biochemical characteristics such as lactose fermentation, hydrogen sulfide production, and motility. Some studies suggest that the family Enterobacteriaceae should possibly be divided into seven or more separate families 2, while others propose the reclassification of certain species into new genera 1, 3. However, the most recent and highest quality study provides evidence for six main clades within the family, which can be reliably demarcated in molecular terms on the basis of multiple identified conserved signature indels (CSIs) 1. This organization is particularly valuable in clinical settings where rapid identification of bacterial pathogens guides appropriate antibiotic therapy and infection control measures, as highlighted in studies on antimicrobial resistance among Enterobacteriaceae 4. Key points to consider in the classification of Enterobacteriaceae into tribes include:
- Biochemical properties and genetic relationships
- Evolutionary relationships and shared biochemical characteristics
- Clinical significance and implications for diagnosis and treatment of infections
- Recent taxonomic changes and updates to the classification system 3