Agglomerate (microbiology)
Agglomerate ( lat. : Agglomerare - agglomerate , amass ) is called in the Microbiology a more or less solidified accumulation of microorganisms to form a composite.
Microbial agglomerates
When microorganisms such as bacteria , unicellular fungi or even unicellular animals ( protozoa ) agglomerate, we speak of microbial agglomerates or aggregates. Agglomeration usually takes place through attachment to or through inclusion in a so-called microbial biofilm , but also through direct cell contacts and hydrophobic interactions based on surface structures on the cell wall or the cell membrane of the microorganisms. These microbial agglomerates form on surfaces or can appear floating in the water in the form of flakes.
Individual evidence
- ^ Sutherland IW: Exopolysaccharides in biofilms, flocs and related structures . In: Water Science and Technology . 43, No. 6, 2001, pp. 77-86.