Protists with different feeding modes change biofilm morphology

摘要: The effect of Dexiostoma (filter feeder), Vannella, Chilodonella (raptorial feeders), Spumella , and Neobodo (direct interception feeders) on the morphology multispecies bacterial biofilms was investigated in small flow cells. filter feeder campylum did not alter biofilm volume porosity but stimulated formation larger microcolonies compared with ungrazed biofilms. In contrast, raptorial Vannella sp. efficiently grazed bacteria from surface, leading to smaller lower maximal basal layer thickness Microcolony presence sessile uncinata rasped outer surface mushroom-shaped microcolonies. C. sp., 2.5–6.3 times However, ratio area were 1.5–3.7 1.2–1.8 higher, respectively. Thus, exchange nutrients gases between its surrounding fluid should also be improved deeper layers, hence accelerating microbial growth.