Microbes in Water reveals the unseen world of aquatic microorganisms and their significant roles in shaping ecosystems and influencing human health. These tiny organisms are not just passive inhabitants, but active drivers of nutrient cycling and primary production, essential for the overall health of our planet. Microbial ecology is key to addressing environmental issues like water pollution and climate change.
The book explores the beneficial roles of microbes in water purification, highlighting their ability to degrade pollutants and remediate contaminated sites, offering sustainable solutions for water management. Conversely, it also examines the detrimental impacts of pathogens that cause waterborne diseases, emphasizing the importance of monitoring water quality.
It presents a comprehensive overview of microbial diversity and function in aquatic ecosystems, connecting microbial ecology to environmental science, public health, and biotechnology. The book begins by introducing core concepts, then delves into specific examples of microbial involvement in key processes, using case studies, and finally, explores the applications of microbial knowledge in water management, focusing on bioremediation and water treatment technologies. It’s designed for a broad audience, integrating ecological principles with practical applications and addressing ongoing debates to stimulate critical thinking.