Introductory Microbiology

Scope of Mcrobiology

• Microbiology is the study of living organisms of microscopic size, which include bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and the infections agents at the border line of life that are called viruses. It is concerned with their form, structure reproduction, physiology, metabolism, and classification. It includes the study of their distribution in nature, their relationship to each other and to other living organisms, their effects on human beings and on other animals and plants, their abilities to make physical and chemical changes in our environment, and their reactions to physical and chemical agents.
• Microorganisms are closely associated with the health and welfare of human beings; some microorganisms are beneficial and others are detrimental. For example, microorganisms are involved in the making of yogurt, cheese, and wine; in the production of penicillin and alcohol; and in the processing of domestic and industrial wastes. Microorganisms can cause disease, spoil food, and deteriorate materials like iron pipes, glass lenses, and wood pilings.
• There are many more species of microorganisms that perform important roles in nature than there are disease producing species.