Ideal for microbiology/science majors  The third edition of Microbiology provides in-depth coverage of the science of microscopic organisms. Providing a balanced presentation of foundational concepts, real-world applications, and current research and experimentation, this comprehensive textbook facilitates a thorough understanding of the scope, nature, and complexity of microbiology. The text approaches the subject within the context of exploration and experimentation, integrating a wealth of classroom-tested pedagogical features. The material is organized around the three pillars of physiology, ecology and genetics -- helping students appreciate the interconnected and dynamic nature of microbiology as they explore individual microbes and the relation between different types of microbes, other organisms, and the environment.    Detailed yet accessible chapters illustrate how an experiment proceeds, explain how microbes replicate, clarify the flow of concept processes, and summarize key points. Challenging end-of-chapter questions both test students’ understanding of the material and strengthen critical thinking skills. This new edition contains up-to-date coverage of topics including DNA replication and gene expression, viral pathogenesis, microbial biotechnology, adaptive immunity, the control of infectious diseases, the microbiology of food and water, and integrated coverage of COVID-19.