Biofilm
A biofilm is a community of microorganisms, like bacteria, that stick to surfaces and each other, forming a protective layer. These tiny organisms grow together in a sticky substance they produce, allowing them to thrive in various environments, from natural settings like rivers to man-made ones like pipes and medical devices. Biofilms can be beneficial, aiding in waste breakdown, but they can also cause problems, such as infections or clogging pipes. Understanding biofilms is essential in fields like medicine and environmental science, as they play a significant role in both health and technology.
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A biofilm is a thin layer of microorganisms, such as bacteria, that stick to surfaces, especially in moist environments. These microorganisms produce a protective coating made of sugars and proteins, allowing them to adhere tightly to surfaces like pipes, teeth, or natural water bodies. Biofilms can be beneficial, playing a role in natural ecosystems, but they can also cause problems, such as clogging pipes or leading to infections. Their resilient nature makes them difficult to remove, as they can resist cleaning and antibiotics, posing challenges in medicine and industry.