“Maybe we should describe bacteria by their individual features and give that group a name”

We already do that. The function and genes of bacteria are what defines a bacterial species (or genus, family, or order). I do agree that the Wikipedia definition of “species” doesn’t strictly apply to bacteria due to asexual reproduction and HGT. But it is still a useful tool for classifying bacteria.

Giving it a name makes talking about the organism easier. If I know that a person is infected with Staphylococcus aureus I know that the characteristics and treatment are going to be very different than if they were infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Giving it a species name is a lot easier than saying they are infected with a coagulase positive, gram positive coccus.

My girlfriend and I followed the stinkymeat and stinkyfeet projects eagerly anticipating each update. The feet one was especially horrifying. I’m surprised he didn’t end up in the hospital.

I also feel old

zombocom! Came here to say the same thing. I still pull it up once or twice a year for inspiration. You can do anything! The unattainable is unknown!

why not both? I’m a formerly “gifted” child who is now an anxious adult with dozens of abandoned hobbies and unfinished projects. I’m also a doctor.

I’ve literally done this, and downloaded info from the cdc before it disappears.