Alcamo's Microbes and Society

Revised and updated to reflected new information in the field, the Third Edition of Alcamo's Microbes and Society is intended for liberal arts students taking a foundation course in the life sciences. It discusses the role of microbes in our everyday lives, from food production to their roll in biotechnology and the numerous other ways that microbes contribute to our world. It goes on to explore such topics as the function of microbes in ecological systems and environmental systems. Coverage of bioterrorism, antibiotic resistance, and microbial disease offer students a broad and current perspective of the extensive impact of various microbes. Consistent with Edward Alcamo's student-friendly writing style, material is presented in a lively format that will engage students and highlight both the positive and negative impact that microorganisms have in our society.

PartI The Microbial World
Chapter1 The Microbial World: Surprising and Stunning
Chapter2 Microbes in Perspective: Of Collectors and Classifiers
Chapter3 Molecules of the Cell: The Building Blocks of Life
Chapter4 The DNA Story: Germs, Genes, and Genomics
Chapter5 Bacteria: The First Microbes
Chapter6 Viruses: At the Threshold of Life
Chapter7 Protists: A Microbial Grab Bag
Chapter8 Fungi: Yeasts and Warm Fuzzies
Chapter9 Growth and Metabolism: Running the Microbial Machine
Chapter10 Microbial Genetics: New Genes for Germs
Chapter11 Controlling Microbes: Not Too Hot to Handle
PartII Microbes and Human Affairs
Chapter12 Microbes and Food: A Menu of Microbial Delights
Chapter13 Food Preservation and Safety: The Competition
Chapter14 Biotechnology and Industry: Microbes at Work
Chapter15 Microbes and Agriculture: No Microbes, No Hamburgers
Chapter16 Microbes and the Environment: No Microbes, No Life
Chapter17 Disease and Resistance: The Wars Within
Chapter18 Viral Diseases of Humans: AIDS to Zoster
Chapter19 Bacterial Diseases of Humans: Slate Wipers and Current Concerns