Microbiology is the study of organisms (microorganisms or microbes) that are microscopic, i.e., too small to be seen by the unaided eye, which for most people would be 0.1 to 0.2 mm in diameter. The field of Microbiology includes: Bacteriology (study of bacteria), Mycology (study of fungi, molds or yeasts), Protozoology (study of protozoa), and Virology (study of viruses). Microbes also include algae, some of which are single celled and microscopic plants. All living organisms display certain characteristics that define the unity of life.

The course of Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology will deal with bacteria and fungi that infect domestic animals. The course will emphasize on the ‘bacteriology’ and ‘mycology’ of infectious diseases, i.e., morphology and major characteristics of the organism, the virulence factors, the pathogenesis of the infection, and a brief description of the clinical signs and lesions. The emphasis on the treatment and control of the bacterial and mycotic diseases will be on the use of antibiotics and vaccine.

Reference Books

1. Microbiology: An Evolving Science. 2008. J. L. Slonczewski and J. W. Foster. W. W.Norton, Publ., NY.

2. Microbiology: An Introduction. 2008. G. J. Tortora, B. R. Funke, and C. L. Case.Ninth Edition, Pearson Publ., NY.

3. Brock Biology of Microorganisms. 2008. M. T. Madigan, J. M. Martinko, P. V.Dunlap, and D. P. Clark. Pearson Publ., NY.

4. Essentials of Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology.2004. G. R. Carter and Darla Wise, 6th Edition, Iowa State Press, IA.

5. Veterinary Microbiology: Bacterial and Fungal Agents of Animal Disease. 2005. J.Glenn Songer and Karen W. Post. Elsevier Saunders, St. Louis, Mo.

6. Veterinary Microbiology and Microbial Disease. 2002. P. J. Quinn, B. K. Markey, M.E. Carter, W. J. Donnelly, and F. C. Leonard. Blackwell Publ., Ames, IA.

7. Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections in Animals. 2004. C. L. Gyles, J. F. Prescott,J. G.Songer, and C. O. Thoen , Blackwell Publ., Ames, IA.