This is the bench and field scientist's guide to well-established, reliable techniques for use in microbiology and microbial ecology. It provides a good starting place for those who are beginning to investigate aspects of the microbial community, and a refresher for more experienced researchers. Chapters on bacteria with interesting metabolic traits are augmented with chapters on molecular techniques, lipis analysis, and appropriate sampling techniques. A special section includes valuable information on biofilm development, bioremediation, modeling of biological systems, and the study of phylogenetics. Unlike other texts, which present theory in microbial ecology, this one contains the applications that can be used throughout one's research.