We can't see them, but microbes are the dominant form oflife on Earth. They make up half of the world's biomass. Theywere here billions of years before we were, and they will be hereafter we are gone. Without their activity, life as we know it wouldbe impossible. Even within our own bodies, there are ten times asmany bacterial cells as human cells. Understanding Microbesprovides a clear, accessible introduction to this world ofmicrobes.
As well as looking at a selection of infectious diseases,including how they are prevented and treated, the book explores theimportance of microbes in the environment, in the production andpreservation of food, and their applications in biotechnology.
This lively and engaging book provides the basics ofmicrobiology, in a contemporary context. It will be equally usefulfor students across the biological, environmental and healthsciences, and for the curious reader wanting to learn more aboutthis fascinating subject.
* A highly-readable, concise introduction to the basics ofmicrobiology placed in the context of the very latest developmentsin molecular biology and their impact on the microbial world.
* Numerous real-world examples range from how cows digest grassto the role of microbes in cancer and the impact of climatechange
* Well-illustrated in full colour throughout.
* Written by an Author with a proven track record in teaching,writing and research.