Impact of bacterial biofilms: The importance of quantitative biofilm studies

Abstract

The impact of various parameters, such as nutrient, temperature, surface materials and condition and hydrodynamics, on biofilm formation is well studied. Extensive research has focused on the relationship between these parameters and bacterial biofilms, with the aim of gaining an understanding of biofilm behaviour under different growth conditions so that relevant control strategies can be implemented. In such studies, model simulations have been used to qualitative study the behaviour of the biofilms respond to change in parameters. However, little is known about the quantitative study of biofilm behaviour in response to change in these parameters. In previous studies, it was indicated that nutrient concentrations influence biofilm morphology (biomass, structures and thickness) but the concentration levels at which biofilm change in structure and thickness is not mentioned. These observations were based on determining biofilms structure without considering the biomass. Findings that are based on qualitative studies only may be insufficient and not in supportive due to the fact that may be pose many speculations and debates. The biomass, structures and thickness form biofilm morphology, therefore if one part is affected, the other parts may also be affected. It is important to conduct research that will focus on both qualitative and qualitative analysis on the impact of parameters on biofilm formation and growth. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of conducting parallel research on quantitative and qualitative study on microbial biofilms with respect to biomass, structure and thickness. © Springer-Verlag and the University of Milan 2011.