Genetic identification of biological species in theSaccharomyces sensu stricto complex

Studies on taxonomic and evolutionary genetics of theSaccharomyces sensu stricto complex are considered in light of the biological species concept. Genetic variability of some physiological properties traditionally used in yeast taxonomy is discussed. Genetic hybridization analysis and molecular karyotyping revealed six biological species in theSaccharomyces sensu stricto complex. DNA-DNA reassociation data are concordant with the data obtained by genetic analysis. A new system for naming the cultivatedSaccharomyces yeast (groups of cultivars) is proposed.This paper is dedicated to Danish scientists Ö Winge and V Jensen in recognition of their contributions to zymology.