This brand new textbook provides a general introduction to microbiology, emphasising the principles and then in light of those principles, carefully explaining chosen applications. Processes are explained first on the biological level and then on the chemical or molecular level, providing students with the whole picture of how processes occur. Each of the book's seven units emphasises a specific principle of microbial life and is supported by a spectacular art programme. FEATURES: Text is organised by principles of microbial activity; Applications are presented in light of these principles; Uses a clear, concise writing style that holds the reader's interest; A unique chapter on methods introduces microscopy, plating and immunological methods that readers will use in the laboratory and in their careers; Over 450 new full-colour illustrations and over 350 micrographs.