Introduction

Biofilms are composed of microbial communities that are attached to an environmental surface.  These microorganisms usually encase themselves in an extracellular polysaccharide or slime matrix. 

Biofilms may be found on any environmental surface where sufficient moisture and nutrients are present. Their development is most rapid in flowing systems where adequate nutrients are available. 


See labeled view of image.
© G. McFeters, author.  ASM MicrobeLibrary
This is a micrograph of biofilm cross-sections composed of two bacterial species (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa).


Introduction
Where biofilms are found
How biofilms form
Biofilm attributes
Facts about biofilms
A misconception

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Supported in part by the Waksman Foundation for Microbiology
Developed in collaboration with Dr. John Lennox, Education Editor, Penn State Altoona
©2002-2006 Center for Biofilm Engineering, http://www.erc.montana.edu

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