"This well-organized text gives a concise account of various groups of microorganisms and a detailed account of several exciting aspects of Modern Microbiology with special reference to bacteria and the extermophillic microorganisms. The structure, reproduction, classification, metabolism, genetics and ecology of viruses, bacteria, yeasts, microalgae and protozoa are covered and profusely illustrated to meet the needs of senior undergraduates in colleges of Science and Agriculture and in the departments of Microbiology and Life Sciences. Special emphasis is given to Applied Microbiology and to pathogenic microbes that cause disease in plants, animals and humans. The role of microorganisms in health and disease, in crop fields and in the environment at large, is highlighted with appropriate examples. The book should also serve as a welcome text for M.B.B.S. students in medical colleges. In its second edition, the text has been thoroughly revised and updated to reflect the many new and interesting breakthroughs in diverse aspects of Microbiology such as buffing, quiescence, virology, genetics, metabolism and medical microbiology."