ABSTRACT
By now you are probably beginning to comprehend how diverse microorganisms are. They are found in every conceivable environment, from frozen Antarctic lakes to superheated thermal vents on the ocean fl oor where the water is at or above the boiling point. They live in desert soils, on your skin, and under your toenails. There are microorganisms that thrive on toxic chemicals and others that digest petroleum. It is safe to say that microorganisms exploit every possible habitat and resource on the planet.
