Gaffkya

/ɡæfˈkaɪə/ noun

Definition

A genus of rod-shaped bacteria (Gaffkya tetragena) found on human skin and mucous membranes, historically important in microbiology.

Etymology

Named after Georg August Gaffky, a 19th-century German bacteriologist. The genus name combines his surname with the suffix '-ia' common in biological nomenclature.

Kelly Says

Gaffkya bacteria were named to honor a microbiologist, showing how important scientists get immortalized by having bacteria named after them—some would consider it a dubious honor!

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