Biofilms

explain the role of biofilms in resistance to antibiotics

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how do biofilms form

Usually are formed by a free swimming planktonic bacterium attaches to a surface. biofilms form pillar-like structures with channels between them, through which water can carry incoming nutrients and outgoing waste.

what is the difference of biofilms and colonies

a colony is a cluster of microorganisms growing on the surface of or within a solid medium, from a single cell well a bioflim is a colony of microorganisms often comprising several species

what is a biofilm

a microbial community that usually forms as a slimy layer on a surface

what are planktonic cells

are bacteria that are free floating as single cells in water

how are bioflims formed

by a free floating planktonic cell that adheres to a suitable solid surface, then intercellular communication, growth, and polysaccharide formation

explain the role of biofilms in the development of dental caries

caries also known as tooth decay or a cavity result from acid localized on tooth surface which causes the metabolism of sugars by bacteria. the bacteria are attached to tooth surface in biofilm and develops as a result of metabolism of sucrose by streptococcus mutans

in a biofilm what are some ways that cells are able to communicate

gene transfer, signal transduction, and quorum sensing

what are some example of biofilms occurrence in nature

in water environments- on algae, rocks, ships, medical- on catheters, teeth, contact lenses, A/C, GI, GU tract, cystic fibrosis

are flagella needed in the biofilm

no they are not

what are sessile cells

sessile cells are cells that are no longer planktonic in the sense that they are free floating they are now attached to a base with other cells forming a biofilm

what are some factors that affect biofilm formation

the condition of the surface, rough is better than a smooth surface, presence of antimicrobial chemical which would affect the growth of the biofilm from the start, the charge, and the flow velocity

Explain the advantages of life in biofilms over planktonic existence

well cells are in biofilms they have a variety of benefits compared to when they are a single cell like protection against antibiotics, toxins, immune cells, source of nutrients stored in Ps, fav microenvironment which is highly hydrated and low oxygen, and stability which can detach and leave