Aquatic microbiology is the science that deals with microscopic living organisms in fresh and salt water systems. Though aquatic microbiology encompasses all microorganisms, including microscopic plants and animals, it refers more commonly to the study of bacteria, actinobacteria, fungi and viruses and their relationships to other organisms in the aquatic environment. Aquatic microbial research embraces a variety of disciplines, ranging from molecular biology and physiology to population dynamics and ecosystem ecology. Aquatic microbes especially in the marine biotopes play a significant role in oceanic processes such as synthesising food, decomposing organic matter, recycling nutrients, and effecting climatic conditions. Although microbes constitute over 90% of oceanic biomass, their biodiversity remains largely unexplored. Microbial diversity and its functions will be significantly affected by critical phenomena such as ocean warming and EI Nino oscillation. Microbial biotechnological approaches and molecular techniques continue to provide us with information on microbes potential for various industrial applications, bio-geographical diversity and phylogeny. There is immense scope for bio-prospecting of aquatic microbes for a wide range of applications. Thus, aquatic microbiology remains instrumental for innovations and future discoveries. Objectives The conference aims at promoting discussions on the current issues of aquatic microbiology to find out the challenges and opportunities for the advancement of existing knowledge in the subject. It will be a forum to exchange ideas, innovations and research findings among academic institutions, research centers, industries and policy makers worldwide. Major Themes -Ecology, diversity, taxonomy and evolution of aquatic microbes. -Beneficial and harmful role of aquatic microbes. -Bio-prospecting potential and biotechnology of aquatic microbes.

Dear Aquatic Microbiologists, Please visit our website http://www.aquaticmicrobiologyconference2010.com and register yourself online. Detailed brochure available at the website. Thank you. Regards, Convener, AMSCO2010