Biology of the Prokaryotes

Designed as an upper-level textbook and a reference for
researchers, this important book concentrates on central concepts
of the bacterial lifestyle. Taking a refreshingly new approach, it
present an integrated view of the prokaryotic cell as an organism
and as a member of an interacting population. Beginning with a
description of cellular structures, the text proceeds through
metabolic pathways and metabolic reactions to the genes and
regulatory mechanisms. At a higher level of complexity, a
discussion of cell differentiation processes is followed by a
description of the diversity of prokaryotes and their role in the
biosphere. A closing section deals with man and microbes (ie,
applied microbiology).

* * The first text to adopt an integrated view of the prokaryotic
cell as an organism and as a member of a population.

* Vividly illustrates the diversity of the prokaryotic world -
nearly all the metabolic diversity in living organisms is found in
microbes.

* New developments in applied microbiology highlighted.

* Extensive linking between related topics allows easy navigation
through the book.

* Essential definitions and conclusions highlighted.

* Supplementary information in boxes.