ABSTRACT
This chapter provides microbiology fundamentals specifically targeting the needs of water and wastewater specialists. It looks at each of the major groups of microorganisms those important to water/wastewater operators in relation to their size, shape, types, nutritional needs, and control. Pathogenic microorganisms temporarily residing in water are simply biding their time, going with the flow, waiting for their opportunity to meet up with their unsuspecting host or hosts. To a degree, when the pathogenic microorganism finds its host or hosts, it is finally home or may have found its final resting place. The microbial quality of water resources and the management of the microbially laden wastes generated by the burgeoning animal agriculture industry are critical local, regional, and national problems. The sand filters most commonly used in municipal water treatment today cost millions of dollars to install, which makes them unattractive for many small communities.
