Biofilms Discussion Part 1
Topic
Biofilms are a community of microorganisms that can colonize surfaces and are located in a wide variety of places. Ask an open-ended question about something that sparks your curiosity related to biofilms that you read about in your textbook, on the internet (use a valid resource site), or any other source that you found related to biofilms in general. This question can include characteristics, types of organisms that may be present, locations, what type of outcome they can lead to, etc. This particular topic has a lot of information overall, so ask a question about something you find interesting! Even consider something in your career path.
You will need to respond to the topic with your question along with your rationale.
Example Post Are biofilms beneficial or harmful, or can they be both?
Biofilms are communities of microorganisms found in various locations. The video provides a few examples, and it sparked my curiosity about the fact that biofilms form in the environment, are found in different industries (i.e. the food industry), and also grow in or on humans. Think about it:
The location characteristics are different, sometimes extremely different, and the microorganisms are still able to grow.
Once the biofilm forms, there is likely an impact from the presence of those microorganisms.
Biofilms, such as the slime on rocks in a pond, those growing inside pipes, even plaque on our teeth, are complex structures. The video focuses on the negative impact of biofilms including their resistance to removal from their given location. However, information provided on the Montana State University website gives a different perspective, including benefits. Do you think harmful biofilms are more likely than beneficial biofilms or can it be both? Do you think the location of the biofilm changes your answer? I am curious to know your thoughts.
Source: https://www.cs.montana.edu/webworks/projects/biofilmbook/contents/chapters/chapter001/section003/blue/page001.html
Source: Source: https://www.cs.montana.edu/webworks/projects/biofilmbook/contents/chapters/chapter001/section003/blue/page001.html
