Presents a complete, easy-to-use, and highly illustrated introduction to basic and advanced laboratory procedures and applications in microbiology. The book provides functional and effective experiences that enable readers to work with, understand, and appreciate microbiology. Presents 66 instructional exercises with multiple parts that have been chosen, designed, and arranged to help readers observe and recognize fundamental similarities and differences among microorganisms. Provides state-of-the-art experiments that stress basic principles along with current applications, such as DNA testing and protein determinations that includes complete descriptions of fundamentals. Emphasizing a team approach through exercises constructed to develop interactions, it also includes procedure diagrams in both visual and written instructions. A valuable reference for every reader interested in basic biology.