The book compiles the latest studies on microorganisms thriving in extreme conditions. Microbes have been found in extremely high and low temperatures, highly acidic to saline conditions, from deserts to the Dead sea, from hot-springs to underwater hydrothermal vents- the diversity is incredible. The various chapters highlight the microbial life and describe the mechanisms of tolerance to these harsh conditions, and show how an understanding of these phenomena can help us exploit the microbes in biotechnology. The theme of the book is highly significant since life in these environments can give vital clues about the origin and evolution of life on earth, as a lot of these conditions simulate the environment present billions of years ago. Additionally, the study of adaptation and survival of organisms in such environments can be important for finding life on other planets.

This book shall be useful for students, researchers and course instructors interested in evolution, microbial adaptations and ecology in varied environments.

这本书汇编了关于微生物在极端条件下茁壮成长的最新研究。微生物在极高和极低的温度、高酸性到盐度的条件下被发现，从沙漠到死海，从温泉到水下热液喷口——多样性令人难以置信。各个章节强调了微生物生命，描述了对这些恶劣条件的耐受机制，并展示了对这些现象的理解如何帮助我们在生物技术中利用微生物。这本书的主题非常重要，因为这些环境中的生命可以提供有关地球上生命起源和进化的重要线索，因为其中许多条件模拟了数十亿年前存在的环境。此外，研究生物体在这种环境中的适应和生存对于在其他星球上寻找生命也很重要。

本书对对不同环境中的进化、微生物适应和生态学感兴趣的学生、研究人员和课程教师很有用。