64 MORPHOLOGY OF THE BACTERIA. 



the same decomposition, of several different forms 

 of schizomycetes. On the other hand, in decom- 

 positions quite different, we may observe schizo- 

 mycetes entirely similar as to their exterior form. 

 Finally, we may change the mode of action of a 

 schizomycete in subjecting it to a certain treat- 

 ment. One sees that it is truly difficult to form 

 an opinion as to the value of these species purely 

 physiological. 



To sum up, the characters which may be used 

 in order to establish genera and species in the 

 group of the bacteria are of small number and of 

 very unequal value. Some, characters of form, of 

 dimension, of movement, etc., are often difficult to 

 determine, or have only a relative value ; others, 

 characters drawn from development and reproduc- 

 tion, are only known in so few species that they 

 cannot be made to serve as a basis of classifica- 

 tion. 



One will not be surprised, then, to find that 

 there is no natural classification of the bacteria, 

 and that it is impossible for the naturalists to give 

 one. All those that can be established are pro- 

 visory, being only based upon the morphology of 

 these organisms. Following the example of all the 

 botanists, we will use an analogous classification, 

 but without wishing to prejudge in any particular 

 the genealogical relationship of the different or- 

 ganisms, which we shall consider as distinct gen- 

 era and species. 



