Synopsis Handbook of Microbiology primarily deals with every important aspect of Microbiology, which is likely to be faced by students today. It attempts to present the basic facts and definitions that are understandable to the generalist and yet palatable to the specialist. It is a reference book that satisfies its user in minimum time. By far the majority of these facts are from the mainstream of Microbiology. However, some of them are also drawn from overlapping disciplines such as Biotechnology, Environmental Biology, etc, and some from the basic sciences; some are also from applicable portions of Biology, Statistics and Bioinformatics. The compilation provides adequate information with a minimum of effort and time required. This book has been designed to be as complete as possible incorporating the generally accepted words and phrases of Microbiology. A large number of well-labelled and self-explanatory diagrams are included. History and milestones of Microbiology have been taken note of. Definitions are given with most of the terms used. Synonyms, abbreviations and symbols appears in parenthesis preceding and definition. Abbreviations and contractions have been included except for the most common abbreviations.