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.

Table of Contents
Part I The Microbial World
Chapter 1 The Microbial World: Surprising and Stunning
Chapter 2 Microbes in Perspective: Of Collectors and Classifiers
Chapter 3 Molecules of the Cell: The Building Blocks of Life
Chapter 4 The DNA Story: Germs, Genes, and Genomics
Chapter 5 Bacteria: The First Microbes
Chapter 6 Viruses: At the Threshold of Life
Chapter 7 Protists: A Microbial Grab Bag
Chapter 8 Fungi: Yeasts and Warm Fuzzies
Chapter 9 Growth and Metabolism: Running the Microbial Machine
Chapter 10 Microbial Genetics: New Genes for Germs
Chapter 11 Controlling Microbes: Not Too Hot to Handle
Part II Microbes and Human Affairs
Chapter 12 Microbes and Food: A Menu of Microbial Delights
Chapter 13 Food Preservation and Safety: The Competition
Chapter 14 Biotechnology and Industry: Microbes at Work
Chapter 15 Microbes and Agriculture: No Microbes, No Hamburgers
Chapter 16 Microbes and the Environment: No Microbes, No Life
Chapter 17 Disease and Resistance: The Wars Within
Chapter 18 Viral Diseases of Humans: AIDS to Zoster
Chapter 19 Bacterial Diseases of Humans: Slate Wipers and Current Concerns