This second edition explores up-to-date tools in various function-based technologies currently used in metagenomics. The chapters in this book discuss all of the working steps involved in these technologies, such as: DNA isolation from soils and marine samples followed by the construction and screening of libraries for diverse enzymes and biomolecules; current methods used to isolate DNA and construct large- and small-insert libraries from terrestrial and marine habitats; methods for establishing metagenome libraries in none-E.coli hosts; new molecular tools used for function-driven mining of metagenomic DNA; and screening protocols for a wide array of different genes encoding enzymes with relevance to biotechnology and ecology. Metagenomics: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition also provides detailed screening protocols for phosphatases, poly-hydroxyalkanoate, metabolism-related enzymes, stereoselective hydrolases, and microbial signals for the discovery of secondary metabolites. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Metagenomics: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a collection of up-to-date metagenome protocols and tools for the recovery of numerous major types of biocatalysts, and allows researchers to easily setup these screens in any microbiology laboratory.