"Methods in Microbiology is the most prestigious series devoted to techniques and methodology in the field. Established for over 30 years, Methods in Microbiology will continue to provide you with tried and tested, cutting edge protocols to directly benefit your research. Extremophiles, edited by two leading experts in the field, provides an overview of the methods used for the isolation, cultivation, handling and study of a wide variety of extremophiles, both at the stage of their isolation from natural samples and in pure culture." "Microbes have adapted to live in almost any available habitat on our planet, even when conditions are highly adverse to most other forms of life. The study of microbial life in extreme environments and the cultivation of the extremophilic microorganisms isolated from those environments demands specialised techniques that differ from those used to handle non-extremophilic microorganisms. Extremophiles provides a comprehensive reference for both the novice and the expert and will be invaluable to microbiologists involved in the study of microbial diversity on earth or other planets as well as those studying the limits of the adaptation of life to extreme conditions. It will also be of interest to industrial microbiologists and biotechnologists. Key Features: Provides art overview of all areas of extremophile research, Includes protocols which can be adapted for use with a wide range of organisms, Details methods for the industrial screening of extremophiles for valuable bio-molecules, Presents practical aspects on how to discover and characterize novel types. Book jacket."--BOOK JACKET