Phylogenetic Placement of Sarcina ventriculi and Sarcina maxima within Group I Clostridium, a Possible Problem for Future Revision of the Genus Clostridium: Request for an Opinion

The 16S rRNA gene sequences of Sarcina ventriculi DSM 286^T (T = type strain) and Sarcina maxima DSM 316^T were determined. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these two species are closely related to each other and belong to group I Clostridium (sensu Johnson and Francis). The implications of these phylogenetic findings for future revision of the genus Clostridium are discussed.