The field of environmental microbiology addresses one of the world's most important areas of scientific research: the roles that microbes play in all planetary environments. The Manual of Environmental Microbiology is the only book to offer a comprehensive analysis of these critical environments. Thoroughly updated and revised, this third edition assembles in a single volume the most definitive information on microbes in air, water, and soil and their impact on human health and welfare. In accessible, clear prose, the Manual describes the natural activities and fate of microorganisms in the environment. This wealth of information is divided into 101 chapters, each written by experts. Five general areas detailed throughout this volume are: basic principles of environmental microbiology, general analytical methodologies, detection of microbial activity, the impact of microbial activity on the environment, and detection and control of pathogens in the environment. The Manual will serve as an indispensable reference for environmental microbiologists, microbial ecologists, and environmental engineers, as well as those interested in human diseases, water and wastewater treatment, and biotechnology.