Biofilm: meaning, definitions and examples
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biofilm
[ ˈbaɪəʊfɪlm ]
microbiology
A thin, slimy film of bacteria that adheres to a surface.
Synonyms
bacterial film, microbial film
Examples of usage
- The biofilm on the medical device caused an infection.
- Biofilms can form on a variety of surfaces, including teeth and medical implants.
ecology
A complex structure composed of microorganisms that adhere to each other and a surface.
Synonyms
biological film, microbial community
Examples of usage
- The biofilm in the river plays a crucial role in the ecosystem.
- The formation of biofilms on rocks creates a habitat for various organisms.
Translations
Translations of the word "biofilm" in other languages:
🇵🇹 biofilme
🇮🇳 बायोफिल्म
🇩🇪 Biofilm
🇮🇩 biofilm
🇺🇦 біоплівка
🇵🇱 biofilm
🇯🇵 バイオフィルム
🇫🇷 biofilm
🇪🇸 biopelícula
🇹🇷 biyo-film
🇰🇷 바이오필름
🇸🇦 غشاء حيوي
🇨🇿 biofilm
🇸🇰 biofilm
🇨🇳 生物膜
🇸🇮 biofilm
🇮🇸 lífhimna
🇰🇿 биопленка
🇬🇪 ბიოფირი
🇦🇿 biofilm
🇲🇽 biopelícula
Word origin
The term 'biofilm' was first coined in the 1970s to describe the aggregation of microorganisms on surfaces. Biofilms are now recognized as a common form of microbial life, with implications in various fields including medicine, industry, and environmental science. Understanding biofilm formation and behavior is essential in combating infections, improving industrial processes, and maintaining ecological balance.