Scope of microbiology: Which of the following topics is NOT a focus of microbiology as a scientific field?

Introduction / Context:
Microbiology studies organisms too small to be seen clearly with the naked eye, including bacteria, archaea, many fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses (acellular). Understanding what falls inside and outside this scope helps learners navigate course content and research domains.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We must pick the topic that is not typically a microbiology subject.
• Microbiology encompasses cellular microbes and some acellular agents.
• Behavioral studies of large animals are a different discipline.

Concept / Approach:

Core microbiology emphasizes microbial taxonomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, pathogenesis, and immunology. While microbes can influence animal behavior (for example, via the microbiome), the direct study of animal behaviour as a field belongs to ethology or behavioral ecology, not microbiology per se.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Course syllabi and textbooks list microbial groups and processes; animal behaviour is covered under zoology or ecology disciplines.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Bacteria/fungi/algae are canonical subjects of microbiology, including their roles in health, industry, and ecosystems.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming any biological topic intersects with microbiology; conflating microbiome effects on animals with the study of animal behavioural patterns themselves.

Final Answer:

Animal behaviour