Introduction to Geomicrobiology
1. Edition September 2006
440 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Introduction to Geomicrobiology is a timely and comprehensive overview of how microbial life has affected Earth's environment through time. It shows how the ubiquity of microorganisms, their high chemical reactivity, and their metabolic diversity make them a significant factor controlling the chemical composition of our planet.
The following topics are covered:
* how microorganisms are classified, the physical constraints governing their growth, molecular approaches to studying microbial diversity, and life in extreme environments
* bioenergetics, microbial metabolic capabilities, and major biogeochemical pathways
* chemical reactivity of the cell surface, metal sorption, and the microbial role in contaminant mobility and bioremediation/biorecovery
* microbiological mineral formation and fossilization
* the function of microorganisms in mineral dissolution and oxidation, and the industrial and environmental ramifications of these processes
* elemental cycling in biofilms, formation of microbialites, and sediment diagenesis
* the events that led to the emergence of life, evolution of metabolic processes, and the diversification of the biosphere.
Artwork from the book is available to instructors at www.blackwellpublishing.com/konhauser.
1. Microbial properties and diversity.
2. Microbial metabolism.
3. Cell surface reactivity and metal sorption.
4. Biomineralization.
5. Microbial weathering.
6. Microbial zonation.
7. Early microbial life.
References.
Index
particular microbes live, how they live and what effects they may
exert on our planet Earth. Certainly I will be using the book when
preparing my lectures." (Geology Today, 1 May
2011)
"This text is well illustrated with clear, informative and
well-described diagrams and some splendid electron micrographs with
convincing evidence for mineral deposition by bacterial action. A
good index and up-to-date references make this a book that
undergraduates of any biological discipline could use as an
introductory text that would be useful throughout their
course."
Times Higher Education Supplement
"A thorough and informative overview of the
subject...comprehensively referenced throughout. ...Dr
Kohnhauser has done an excellent job in integrating the diverse
aspects of geomicrobiology and making them accessible and
interesting to...a wide range of readers." European Journal of
Soil Science
"The most comprehensive general book in geomicrobiology,
showing the great advances made in geomicrobiology during the past
few years ... Packed with information."
Journal of Sedimentary Research
"I would recommend this book to any upper undergraduate /
graduate students who wish to study geomicrobiology, as well as to
researchers in geomicrobiology who may find here either a nice way
to fill possible gaps in their knowledge or a starting point for
new research."
Journal of Sedimentary Research