Systematics of leptospiraceae.
Leptospires are spirochetes that may be free-living saprophytes found in freshwater or may cause acute or chronic infection of animals. The family Leptospiraceae comprises three genera: Leptospira Leptospira Leptonema Leptonema, and Turneriella Turneriella. Within the genus Leptospira, three clades can be distinguished, of pathogens, nonpathogens, and an intermediate group. Leptospires are further divided into serovars; antigenically related serovars are clustered into serogroups for convenience.
Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory, 5, Research Drive, Regina, SK, S4S 0A4, Canada, Plevett@health.gov.sk.ca.
Paul N
PN
Levett
D016953:Leptospiraceae / Q000145:classification* / Q000235:genetics; D010802:Phylogeny