Anaerobes are diverse and fascinating organisms. Due to recent advances in equipment and methodology researchers are now able to make increasingly widespread studies of their activities. As a consequence, interest in anaerobes is growing rapidly. This book provides the first ready source of general methods of use to all anaerobic microbiologists, in addition to those which are valuable in the study of specific habitats or groups of organisms. Topics include isolation and culture techniques as well as a range of taxonomic methods, and protocols for biochemical and genetic studies. Several chapters are also devoted specifically to organisms with special culture requirements, such as the methanogens, sulphate-reducing bacteria, and anaerobic eukaryotes (including both protozoa and fungi). This volume will be essential to all those interested in the study of anaerobic micro-organisms, whether in the fields of taxonomy, ecology, physiology or molecular biology.