"Microbial Life" details the understanding of the role of the microbe in evolution, human health, and in our lives. The coverage includes a brief historical background, evolution of micro-organisms, components of bacteria and viruses, energetics, microbial diversity together with the role or microbes and viruses in human disease, immunology, the environment, and industrial applications. Chapter summaries, review questions, and suggested readings reinforce key concepts, while boxes highlight recent or significant research, historical essays, and methods and techniques. An interactive student CD-ROM is included with every copy of the book.