PROTOZOOLOGY

Protozoology is the study of protozoa, animal-like single-cell microorganisms that can be found in aquatic environments. Many obtain their food by engulfing or ingesting smaller organisms. Protozoa are found in aquatic and terrestrial environments

PARASITOLOGY

Parasitology is the study of parasites. A parasite is an organism that lives at the expense of another organism or host. Parasites that cause disease are called pathogens. Examples of parasites are bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and many animals such as worms, flatworms, and arthropods (insects).

SCOPE AND ROLES OF MICROBIOLOGY

MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY: the study of the pathogenic microbes and the role of microbes in human illness. Includes the study of microbial pathogenesis and epidemiology and is related to the study of disease pathology and immunology. This area of microbiology also covers the study of human microbiota, cancer, and the tumour microenvironment.

PHARMACEUTICAL MICROBIOLOGY: the study of microorganisms that are related to the production of antibiotics, enzymes, vitamins, vaccines, and other pharmaceutical products and that cause pharmaceutical contamination and spoil.

INDUSTRIAL MICROBIOLOGY: the exploitation of microbes for use in industrial processes. Examples include industrial fermentation and wastewater treatment. Closely linked to the biotechnology industry, this field also includes brewing, an important application of microbiology.