Handbook of Microbiology

The study of microorganisms, including unicellular, multicellular and acellular microorganisms, is under the scope of microbiology. It is divided according to taxonomy into bacteriology, protozoology, mycology and phycology. Microbes are the causative agents for a number of human diseases. However, they are useful for a number of industrially beneficial processes such as production of vinegar, alcohol and dairy products. Various biopolymers such as polyamides, polysaccharides and polyesters are produced using microorganisms. These are also used for advanced medical and biomedical applications like drug delivery and tissue engineering, antibiotics production and as a carrier of DNA in complex organisms such as plants and animals. Microorganisms further play a critical role in the bioremediation of agricultural, domestic and industrial wastes in soils and marine environments. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the field of microbiology. It outlines the processes and applications of microbiology in detail. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.