Introduction to Microbiology Microbiology is the branch of science that studies microorganisms. These are extremely small living organisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye and require a microscope…
Introduction Microorganisms differ from each other in structure, size, nutrition, reproduction and genetic makeup. Because of these differences, scientists developed several methods to classify microbes. Understanding classification helps in identification,…
Introduction This chapter explains the major groups of microorganisms that are important in microbiology and human health. These include bacteria, fungi, viruses, rickettsiae and spirochetes. Each group has its own…
Introduction Bacteria are capable of growing in different types of laboratory media when provided with essential nutrients and suitable environmental conditions. Their growth depends on sources of energy, carbon, nitrogen,…
Introduction Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they cannot multiply on ordinary culture media like bacteria. They need living cells—animal cells, embryonated eggs or cell cultures—to replicate. Understanding how viruses…
Introduction Culture media are specially prepared nutrient mixtures that support the growth, isolation and identification of microorganisms. No single medium supports all microbes, so different types of media are used…
Introduction Microorganisms used for research, teaching, pharmaceutical production and environmental studies must be preserved in a viable and genetically stable form. These preserved organisms are known as stock cultures. The…