Community structure and co-operation in biofilms / edited by D.G. Allison [and others].

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

An overview of biofilms as functional communities / J. Wimpenny -- Initial microbial adhesion events: mechanisms and implications / H.J. Busscher and H.C. van der Mei -- Physiological events in biofilm formation / D.G. Davies -- Environmental and genetic factors influencing biofilm structure / P. Stoodley, L. Hall-Stoodley and J.D. Boyle / [and others] -- Coaggregation and coadhesion in oral biofilms / P.E. Kolenbrander, R.N. Andersen and K.M. Kazmerzak / [and others] -- Cohesiveness in biofilm matrix polymers / H.-C. Flemming, J. Wingender and C. Mayer / [et al.] -- Microbial detachment from biofilms / G.F. Moore, B.C. Dunsmore and S.M. Jones / [et al.].

The study of biofilm considers the close association of micro-organisms with each other at interfaces and the consequent physiological adaptation to the proximity of other cells and surfaces. As such it is relevant to a variety of disciplines, including medicine, dentistry, bioremediation, biofouling, water technology, engineering and food science. Although the habitats studied, and their associated cellular communities, differ widely, some common elements exist such as method of attachment, coadhesion, regulation of biofilm phenotype and biofilm architecture. This book aims to distil the common principles of biofilm physiology and growth for all interested disciplines. It will appeal to the specialist biofilm researcher as well as to students wishing to introduce themselves to the topic.