Bacteriologists from all levels of expertise and within all specialties rely on this Manual as one of the most comprehensive and authoritative works. Since publication of the first edition of the Systematics, the field has undergone revolutionary changes, leading to a phylogenetic classification of prokaryotes based on sequencing of the small ribosomal subunit. The list of validly named species has more than doubled since publication of the first edition, and descriptions of over 2000 new and realigned species are included in this new edition along with more in-depth ecological information about individual taxa and extensive introductory essays by leading authorities in the field.
From the reviews of the second edition:
"The second edition of this well respected set is in the process of being published. This review is based on volume 1 ? and there are 5 volumes expected for completion. Volume 1 contains a wealth of information, particularly in background material. ? Bergey's Manuals are well-known, authoritative works in the field of bacteriology. This new edition is no exception, and should be included in all academic libraries and collections supporting research in this field." (Teresa Bowden, E-Streams, Vol. 5 (10), October, 2002)
"At first glance, the first and second editions of the determinative Manual look reassuringly similar. ? More careful examination reveals a massive transformation; systematic bacteriology has changed for ever. ? Happily the changes are reflected in the growth of the introductory chapter ? . The reading of these generally well-written introductory chapters is essential for the proper understanding and use of the new edition.? the manual has developed greatly, its standard of excellence remains unchallenged." (Max Sussmann, Microbiologist, Vol. 4 (1), 2003)
"The second edition of Bergey's Manual is finally arriving on our bookshelves and promises to be well worth the wait. ? The Second Edition continues the high reputation of earlier volumes in the delivery of the descriptions of taxa. ? One of the delights of the book is the extensive range of beautiful photomicrographs of obscure and bizarre microbial cells. This book is an essential purchase for the library and, given the reasonable price, well worth considering by the individual microbiologist ? ." (Fergus Priest, Microbiology Today, Vol. 29, 2002)
