Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms encapsulated within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). They adhere to surfaces and can form in a variety of environments. The formation of biofilms generally follows these stages:
Initial Attachment: Microorganisms adhere to a surface through weak, reversible interactions. Irreversible Attachment: The attachment becomes more permanent as microorganisms produce EPS. Maturation: The biofilm grows and matures, developing complex, three-dimensional structures. Dispersion: Cells or clusters detach from the biofilm to colonize new surfaces.
