Question

What do the sticky layers of protective slime produced by some bacteria enable them to do?

- stick together and form biofilms

- move from one location to another

- acquire resistance to antibiotics

- survive extreme conditions for long periods of time

- sexually reproduce

Answer 1

The sticky layers of protective slime produced by some bacteria enable them to "stick together and form biofilms."

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms, including bacteria, that adhere to surfaces and are embedded in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The sticky slime or EPS produced by bacteria allows them to adhere to surfaces and form biofilms. Biofilms provide several advantages to bacteria, such as protection from harmful environmental conditions, enhanced resistance to antibiotics and disinfectants, improved nutrient availability, and increased opportunities for interactions and cooperation among bacterial cells. The sticky nature of the slime allows bacteria to aggregate and adhere to both biotic and abiotic surfaces, facilitating the formation and maintenance of biofilms.