[Information on the Latest Bacterial Taxonomy Focusing on Microbiome-related Bacteria]

Bacterial taxonomy has often changed significantly with the introduction of new technology. Most recently, next-generation sequencers (NGS) have substantially impacted bacterial taxonomy. With NGS, it has become possible to determine with high accuracy the interrelationships and taxonomic positions of even distantly related bacterial groups by determining whole genome sequences and comparing and examining them in detail. As a result, the Phylum, a higher taxonomic rank, has officially been approved. Furthermore, rapid taxonomic reorganization is occurring at all taxonomic ranks, from classes to genera. Meanwhile, anyone can now perform microbiota analysis using NGS as long as they have the equipment. The name of each detected bacterial group must be based on the latest classification. However, there are some points to be aware of, such as discrepancies between the OTUs used in microbiota analysis and the correct taxonomic definition of bacterial species. There are also pitfalls lurking in public databases. With these points in mind, I hope that accurate analysis will progress, and that research on the microbiome and macrobiota will continue to develop.