Which of the following methods is NOT typically used for bacterial identification?

Genomic sequencing is a powerful tool used for various applications in microbiology, including identifying bacterial species based on their genetic material. However, it is not among the most commonly utilized methods for routine bacterial identification in laboratory settings. Instead, most laboratories rely on biochemical tests, morphological tests, and serotyping, which allow for quicker, more practical, and cost-effective identification of bacteria.

Biochemical tests assess metabolic characteristics, morphological tests examine cell shape and structure, and serotyping involves identifying specific antigens present on the bacterial surface. These methods provide sufficient information for effective identification of most bacterial pathogens encountered in clinical settings. Genomic sequencing, while highly accurate, is often reserved for more complex scenarios, such as epidemiological studies or research settings, where in-depth analysis is required but may not be practical for everyday bacterial identification.