How would someone identify an unknown bacteria?

"Due to the prospect of interplanetary travel, how would you attempt to isolate and identify a bacterial infection acquired on another planet. This bacteria is unknown to use and does not appear in Bergey's or the manual of clinical microbiology."

Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "'unknown bacteria' identify planetary" to get these possible sources:

http://www.nslc.wustl.edu/elgin/genomics/Bio3055/IdUnknBacteria06.pdf
http://app1.unmc.edu/PublicAffairs/TodaySite/sitefiles/today_full.cfm?match=2069
http://www.physorg.com/news89918708.html
(Broken Link Removed)

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.

I hope this helps. If not, possibly you can do your own searches with other key words. Thanks for asking.

Identifying an unknown bacteria can be a complex process that involves several steps. In the case of a bacterial infection acquired on another planet, where the bacteria is unknown and not listed in reference materials like Bergey's or the manual of clinical microbiology, the identification process would require additional steps and considerations. Here is a general outline of how someone could approach the isolation and identification of an unknown bacteria:

1. Isolation: The first step would be to isolate the bacteria from the sample collected on the other planet. This could involve culturing the bacteria on appropriate growth media and conditions. Various techniques, such as streaking the sample on agar plates or using selective/differential media, might be employed to isolate individual bacterial colonies.

2. Morphological and biochemical characterization: Once the bacteria are isolated, their morphological characteristics (e.g., shape, size, arrangement) can be examined under a microscope. Additionally, biochemical tests can be performed to determine features such as the ability to utilize specific carbohydrates or produce certain enzymes. These tests can provide preliminary information about the bacteria's metabolic capabilities.

3. Genetic analysis: Since the unknown bacteria does not appear in existing reference materials, a genetic analysis would be crucial for further identification. Techniques such as DNA sequencing can be used to determine the genetic information of the bacteria. The obtained genetic sequence can then be compared to existing databases, like GenBank, to identify any known similar sequences.

4. Phylogenetic analysis: Once the genetic sequence is obtained, phylogenetic analysis can be performed to determine the bacteria's evolutionary relationship to known bacteria. This analysis compares the genetic sequence of the unknown bacteria with those of known bacteria to construct a phylogenetic tree. By comparing the genetic similarities, the unknown bacteria can be placed within a known taxonomic group.

5. Collaborative efforts and expert consultation: Identifying a completely unknown bacteria, especially from another planet, would likely require collaboration with experts in the field. Sharing the genetic data and other relevant information with a wider scientific community can help in the identification process. This can involve reaching out to microbiologists, astrobiologists, or other experts who specialize in bacterial identification.

It is important to note that the process of identifying an unknown bacteria requires specialized knowledge, resources, and access to advanced equipment. In the case of a bacterial infection acquired on another planet, it would involve extensive planning, proper sample collection and preservation, and collaboration with experts in relevant fields.