Mycoplasma and L-forms: occurrence in bacterial cultures

The mycoplasma and the L-forms of bacteria have been associated since the time of their discovery. Their similar biological properties have raised questions concerning their common origin. Observations made over a number of years have shown the appearance of mycoplasma in L-form cultures of several bacterial species. The origin of these mycoplasma cultures remains unknown. Recent research suggests the possibility of phylogenetic relationships between mycoplasma and bacteria or their derived L-forms.