Letter: An errata

From Jon Arch

I have always been impressed by the standard of grammar and punctuation in New Scientist, but my heart sank when I read “Name that bacteria in one” (16 February, p 28). The singular of bacteria is bacterium. I can cope with “this data” since we rarely use “datum” (unless we’re surveyors) and data has a spreadable feel, like butter.

But why use “bacteria” as both singular and plural? It helps understanding to distinguish singular and plural. Will we have “bacterias” one day?

And while I am having my little rant, I find it amusing that I referee papers in which cells are bathed in “media”, though the only medium used is “Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium”.

Can we please preserve the mitochondrion as well? I look to you to help control my blood pressure and give me a long life.

Buckingham, UK