These volumes present the main classes of useful laboratory model systems used to study microbial ecosystems, with emphasis on the practical details for the use of each model. The most commonly used model, the homogeneous fermenter, is featured along with linked homogeneous culture systems, film fermenters, and percolating columns. Additionally, gel-stabilized culture systems which incorporate molecular diffusion as their main solute transfer mechanism and the microbial colony are explained. Chapters comparing model systems with "microcosms" are included, along with discussions of the value of computer models in microbial ecosystem research. Highlighted is a global discussion of the value of laboratory models in microbial ecology.

These volumes present the main classes of useful laboratory model systems used to study microbial ecosystems, with emphasis on the practical details for the use of each model. The most commonly used model, the homogeneous fermenter, is featured along with linked homogeneous culture systems, film fermenters, and percolating columns. Additionally, gel-stabilized culture systems which incorporate molecular diffusion as their main solute transfer mechanism and the microbial colony are explained. Chapters comparing model systems with "microcosms" are included, along with discussions of the value of computer models in microbial ecosystem research. Highlighted is a global discussion of the value of laboratory models in microbial ecology.

These volumes present the main classes of useful laboratory model systems used to study microbial ecosystems, with emphasis on the practical details for the use of each model. The most commonly used model, the homogeneous fermenter, is featured along with linked homogeneous culture systems, film fermenters, and percolating columns. Additionally, gel-stabilized culture systems which incorporate molecular diffusion as their main solute transfer mechanism and the microbial colony are explained. Chapters comparing model systems with "microcosms" are included, along with discussions of the value of computer models in microbial ecosystem research. Highlighted is a global discussion of the value of laboratory models in microbial ecology.

For a long time microbial ecology has been developed as a distinct field with in Ecology. In spite of the important role of microorganisms in the environ ment, this group of 'invisible' organisms remained unaccessable to other ecologists. Detection and identification of microorganisms remain largely dependent on isolation techniques and characterisation of pure cultures. We now realise that only a minor fraction of the microbial community can be cultivated. As a result of the introduction of molecular methods, microbes can now be detected and identified at the DNA/RNA level in their natural environment. This has opened a new field in ecology: Molecular Microbial Ecology. In the present manual we aim to introduce the microbial ecologist to a selected number of current molecular techniques that are relevant in micro bial ecology. The first edition of the manual contains 33 chapters and an equal number of additional chapters will be added this year. Since the field of molecular ecology is in a continuous progress, we aim to update and extend the Manual regularly and will invite anyone to deposit their new protocols in full detail in the next edition of this Manual.

This book provides an overview of the immobilization of viable and non-viable cells, proteins, enzymes and active molecules, and their interaction with natural or synthetic carriers for performing biochemical and chemical reactions in vivo and in vitro.

Ecological Microcosms is a seminal work which reviews the expanding field of enclosed ecosystem research, and relates the results and models of microcosm studies to general concepts in ecology. Microcosms are miniaturized pieces of our biosphere, ranging from streams and lakes to terraria, agroecosystems, and waste systems. The study of these simplified ecosystems is providing provocative insights into ecological principles as well as issues of environmental management and global stability. The authors have used the well-known thermodynamic approach of H.T. Odum and numerous computer simulations. The book also includes an evaluation of alternative mesocosm approaches for the support of humans in space, as well as appendices to aid in the teaching of environmental concepts using student-created microcosms. Ecological Microcosms will be of interest to ecologists, environmental engineers, policy makers and environmental managers, space scientists, and educators. Robert J. Beyers is a Professor of Biology at the University of South Alabama. Howard T. Odum is Graduate Research Professor of Environmental Engineering Sciences at the University of Florida, and was awarded, with Eugene Odum, the 1987 Crafoord Prize in the Biosciences.

Handbook of Methods in Aquatic Microbial Ecology is the first comprehensive compilation of 85 fundamental methods in modern aquatic microbial ecology. Each method is presented in a detailed, step-by-step format that allows readers to adopt new methods with little difficulty. The methods represent the state of the art, and many have become standard procedures in microbial research and environmental assessment. The book also presents practical advice on how to apply the methods. It will be an indispensable reference for marine and freshwater research laboratories, environmental assessment laboratories, and industrial research labs concerned with microbial measurements in water.