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Microbiology

Microbiology is the branch of biology that deals with microorganisms, living things that are so small they are invisible to the naked eye. The field of microbiology is interconnected with other sciences such as immunology, virology, microbial genetics, physiology, and epidemiology. Researchers utilize methods borrowed from genetics and biochemistry to carry out their work and have, over the years, provided results that significantly impact the fields of biology and medicine.

Microorganisms are also known as microbes. They are single-cell organisms and are the oldest form of life known to man. They have been in existence for billions of years, which means they were around hundreds of millions of years before multicellular organisms, such as fish, dinosaurs, etc. came into being. Microbes are usually broken down into six main categories: bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, protista and microbial mergers. They are an absolutely essential part of the entire earth’s ability to survive. In the specific case of humans, microbes contribute greatly to our way of life. For example, many of our internal fuctions, such as digestion, require the help of microsorganisms. Additionally, many forms of vitamins and antibiotics are produced with the help of bacteria. Bacteria also help in the production of human substances such as insulin.

Web Resources On Microbiology

Wikipedia: Microbiology
The World of Microbes

Book Resources On Microbiology

Microbiology: An Introduction by Gerard J. Tortora
Microbiology: Principles and Explorations by Jacquelyn G. Black

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