Last modified: 2013-10-18
Abstract
Since the beginning of life on planet Earth, microorganisms have been among the oldest organisms with great diversity and biomass. Life on this planet is difficult to impossible without microbes. Microbes are also getting lost with climate change. Knowledge about microbial biodiversity is still at its infant stage, while concern for their conservation is also missing. Day by day, we are losing valuable microbial wealth on this planet, which if not conserved/protected, will be a blunder for existence of life. Unfortunately microbial biodiversity is still missing from most of the biodiversity conservation programmes, academic journals, professional bodies etc. Extensive research efforts are needed for microbial biodiversity exploration, conservation and utilization. Let us join hands to strengthen this neglected area, which is required for the continued existence of life on this Earth.