This popular lab manual offers thirty-four multi-part lab exercises designed to provide students with basic training in the handling of microorganisms, while exploring microbial properties and uses. This lab manual can also be used independently of the main text. An instructor's manual, downloadable from the Web, accompanies the lab manual and provides principles of lab safety; research topic ideas, information on customizing laboratory programs with the manual; helpful suggestions for setting up and running each exercise; and lists of laboratory media, cultures, and special materials used in each exercise.