This book describes the state-of-the-art
concerning the 'marine microbiome' and its uses in biotechnology. The first
part discusses the diversity and ecology of marine microorganisms and viruses,
including all three domains of life: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. It
discusses whether marine microorganisms exist and, if so, why they might be unique.
The second part presents selected marine habitats, their inhabitants and how
they influence biogeochemical cycles, while the third discusses the utilization
of marine microbial resources, including legal aspects, dissemination, and
public awareness.
The marine microbiome is the total of
microorganisms and viruses in the ocean and seas and in any connected
environment, including the seafloor and marine animals and plants. The
diversity of microbial life remains unquantified and largely unknown, and could
represent a hidden treasure for human society. Accordingly, this book is also intended
to connect academics and industry, providing essential information for microbiologists
from both fields.