Environmental Microbiology

Environmental Microbiology is the study of the composition and physiological functions of microbial communities in their natural environments, such as soil, water, and air. This field investigates the vast diversity of microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses, and protists), their interactions with each other and their surroundings, and their fundamental roles in driving the planet's biogeochemical cycles, like the carbon and nitrogen cycles. It also explores the application of these microbial processes for practical purposes, including bioremediation to clean up pollutants, wastewater treatment, and maintaining the health of ecosystems.

1. Introduction to Environmental Microbiology
   1. Defining the Field
      1. Scope and Interdisciplinary Nature
      2. Historical Development
         1. Early Discoveries in Microbiology
         2. Emergence of Environmental Microbiology as a Discipline
         3. Key Figures and Landmark Studies
   2. The Microbial World
      1. Major Groups of Microorganisms
         1. Bacteria
            1. Morphological Diversity
            2. Metabolic Diversity
            3. Ecological Roles
         2. Archaea
            1. Unique Biochemical Features
            2. Adaptations to Extreme Environments
            3. Ecological Significance
         3. Eukaryotic Microorganisms
            1. Fungi
               1. Yeasts
               2. Molds
               3. Ecological Functions
            2. Protists
               1. Protozoa
               2. Algae-like Protists
               3. Roles in Food Webs
            3. Microalgae
               1. Photosynthetic Roles
         4. Viruses
            1. Structure and Classification
            2. Bacteriophages
            3. Environmental Roles
      2. Microbial Cell Structure and Function
         1. Prokaryotic Cell Organization
         2. Eukaryotic Cell Organization
         3. Cell Walls and Membranes
         4. Motility Structures
         5. Survival Structures
            1. Endospores
            2. Cysts
   3. Fundamental Roles of Microbes in Ecosystems
      1. Primary Production
      2. Decomposition
      3. Nutrient Cycling
      4. Biogeochemical Transformations
      5. Ecosystem Engineering
         1. Biofilm Formation
         2. Soil Aggregation
      6. Symbiotic Relationships