Unit 9 · Microbiology

A/L Biology

• Microorganisms: nature and diversity
• Bacteria: shapes, structure and Gram staining
• Bacteria: nutrition, reproduction, growth and endospores
• Viruses: structure and replication
• HIV, viroids and prions
• Microscopic fungi, algae and protozoa
• Laboratory techniques: sterilisation, culture media and pure cultures
• Microbes in the environment: nutrient cycles, nitrogen fixation, decomposition and sewage treatment
• Microbes and food: fermentation, spoilage, food poisoning and preservation
• Microbes in industry and medicine: antibiotics, enzymes, biofuels and other products
• Microbial diseases: transmission, control and antibiotic resistance