The most definitive manual of microbes in air, water, and soil and their impact on human health and welfare.Incorporates a summary of the latest methodology used to study the activity and fate of microorganisms in various environments. Synthesizes the latest information on the assessment of microbial presence and microbial activity in natural and artificial environments. Features a section on biotransformation and biodegradation. Serves as an indispensable reference for environmental microbiologists, microbial ecologists, and environmental engineers, as well as those interested in human diseases, water and wastewater treatment, and biotechnology.