Alright everyone, here we have our first practice problem. What is the definition of biofilms? Or what characteristics do they have? So remember that biofilms are going to be a special congregation of microorganism species in this kind of sticky, slimy matrix and they all live in there together and that is collectively known as a biofilm. So let's have a look at our answers. Biofilms are a random accumulation of bacteria which are not able to communicate with each other. First of all, the reason why this answer is in correct is it's not always just bacteria. It is commonly bacteria, but archaea can also be in a biofilm. And they are able to communicate with one another and actually talk to one another and realize how big their biofilm is. So this is not a true statement. Answer choice b says biofilms are a community of microorganisms protected by a polysaccharide and protein matrix. Yes, it is a community of many different diverse microorganisms, bacteria, archaea, and many different species of each And they are protected by this matrix, which is also known as the EPS, and it consists of polysaccharides or sugars and a protein matrix, and it's really slimy, and it does protect them from a lot of things. So this is a true statement. Let's rule out answer choice c and d. Answer choice c says biofilms are offer no protection against UV light or chemical toxins to the microorganisms. Actually, the biofilm does. The EPS protects the microorganisms inside of the biofilm from UV light, chemical toxins, and things like antibiotics. So this is not true. Answer choice d says biofilms are a are large groups of bacteria which are clones of a single parent cell. Remember I said that a biofilm can be made of many different species of bacteria and archaea, so they're definitely not gonna be clones of one another. So this is not true. The correct answer here is answer choice b. Biofilms are a community of microorganisms protected by a polysaccharide and protein matrix. Okay, everyone. Let's move on to our next video.

Table of contents

1. Introduction to Microbiology3h 22m
2. Disproving Spontaneous Generation1h 18m
3. Chemical Principles of Microbiology3h 38m
4. Water1h 28m
5. Molecules of Microbiology2h 23m
6. Cell Membrane & Transport3h 28m
7. Prokaryotic Cell Structures & Functions5h 52m
8. Eukaryotic Cell Structures & Functions2h 18m
9. Microscopes2h 46m
10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth4h 36m
11. Controlling Microbial Growth4h 10m
12. Microbial Metabolism5h 16m
13. Photosynthesis2h 31m
14. DNA Replication2h 25m
15. Central Dogma & Gene Regulation7h 14m
16. Microbial Genetics4h 44m
17. Biotechnology3h 0m
18. Viruses, Viroids, & Prions4h 56m
19. Innate Immunity7h 15m
20. Adaptive Immunity7h 14m
21. Principles of Disease6h 57m

10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth

Biofilms

Microbiology

10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth

Biofilms

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Multiple Choice

Biofilms:

Are a random accumulation of bacteria which are not able to communicate with each other.

Are a community of microorganisms protected by a polysaccharide and protein matrix.

Offer no protection against UV light or chemical toxins to microorganisms.

Are large groups of bacteria which are clones of a single parent cell.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the definition of biofilms: Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms that are attached to a surface and embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Recognize the function of the extracellular matrix: This matrix provides protection to the microorganisms within the biofilm from environmental stresses such as UV light, chemical toxins, and antibiotics.

Identify the communication within biofilms: Microorganisms in biofilms communicate through a process known as quorum sensing, which allows them to coordinate behavior and function as a community.

Differentiate biofilms from random bacterial accumulations: Unlike random accumulations, biofilms are organized and have a complex structure that supports the survival and growth of the community.

Clarify the diversity within biofilms: Biofilms are not composed of clones of a single parent cell; instead, they often contain diverse species of microorganisms, contributing to their resilience and adaptability.