Dynamics of Biological Systems, Chapter 3: Microbial Systems

First paragraphs. Microorganisms play an important role in many biological systems. Wetlands, compost piles, fermentation vessels, wastewater treatment reactors, anaerobic digesters, bioprocess operations, bioremediation of contaminated soils, and many other biological systems all require the effective use of microorganisms. Biological systems engineers must understand the function of microorganisms in diverse settings and be able to apply the tools of engineering to the analysis and design of systems containing microorganisms.