Abstract
The DNA base composition (GC content) of 114 strains belonging to the so-called coryneform bacteria was examined from the viewpoint of bacterial taxonomy. The GC content of these bacteria ranged widely from 46 to 78%. Although the GC content of Cellulomonas fell into a relatively narrow range near 72%, those of Corynebacterium, Arthrobacter, Microbacterium, and Brevibacterium did not exhibit the specific range to characterize the genus. This fact probably shows that the genera of coryneform bacteria, except Cellulomonas, are taxonomically heterogeneous. A new method for the isolation of DNA from lysozyme-insensitive or poorly sensitive strains was described.
