This well-referenced, inquiry-driven text presents an up-to-date and comprehensive understanding of the emerging field of environmental microbiology. Coherent and comprehensive treatment of the dynamic, emerging field of environmental microbiology Emphasis on real-world habitats and selective pressures experienced by naturally occurring microorganisms Case studies and ''Science and the Citizen'' features relate issues in the public's mind to the underlying science Unique emphasis on current methodologies and strategies for conducting environmental microbiological research, including methods, logic, and data interpretation