Includes bibliographical references (pages 93-95) and index.

Gives information on where to find and cultivate microbial organisms.

"'Garden of Microbial Delights' takes the reader on an excursion of beauty, mystery and splendor through the world of microbes. Microbial organisms, which are neither animal nor plant, are the dominant and oldest forms of life on Earth. Their incessant growth, movement, chemical transformation, and death strongly and pervasively affect human life. These minute creatures are responsible for cleaning the air, making soil fertile, and producing our medicines and many of our foods. In fact, the tiny living organisms produce the exotic flavors and textures of French cheeses, gourmet sauces, yogurt, champagne, fine bread, and wine. Our growing understanding of what life is, including the new techniques of genetic engineering, requires a familiarity with the microbial world. For example, the transfer of portions of DNA and RNA from one microbe to another for medicine, agriculture, and waste removal as well as industrial microbiology, has become a highly developed science with important ramifications. 'Garden of Microbial Delights' also provides easily understood information for amateur naturalists, students, teachers, and museum lovers on where to find and cultivate microbial organisms -- as well as on how to observe and keep microbial pets -- in a context of the new, exciting discoveries of microbiology."--,Taken from book jacket front flap.

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