What is one way in which microbiologists can distinguish different bacteria that are similar in morphology and staining characteristics?

Answer: Biochemical testing

Explanation:

The biochemical testing is the method which is used to differentiate the bacterial species which is similar in morphology and staining conditions.

The microbiologists previously used gram staining but this technique is not much specific. Now the modern technique is biochemical testing which uses different testing method for more specific testing of the bacterial species.

Biochemical tests includes hydrogen sulfide production, citric acid utilization, methyl red, fermentation.