This volume is a unique international compilation for biotechnologists of data on the location and use of bacterial cells. The volume provides details of the location and scope of major culture collections around the world holding bacteria; information on how to access their data, administration and safety, identification, culture and media recipes, preservation, patents, specialist services and international organisations. The authors are international authorities who have combined with the resource centres to provide a source book for microbiologists in industry, research establishments and universities.