As the title suggests, this book presents an open ended system in which computer techniques facilitate encoding, entry, management, and analysis of microbiological data derived from the study of bacteria, algae, fungi, and protozoa. The system is not constrained by any taxonomie point of view or proprietary computer technology and is freely and easily adaptable to the special needs of special problems. This enables investigators to deal efficiently with unforeseen areas of their investigation or with new data generated by old or new technology. We are sincerely grateful for the invaluable...