Quorum sensing

Definition

A chemical signaling process that lets a microbial population coordinate behavior based on its density.

As a biofilm matures, cells communicate chemically through quorum sensing so the community acts as a system rather than a collection of individuals. Growth becomes structured, resources are shared, and defense becomes collective. Quorum signals can also trigger the release of fragments that detach and seed new colonies downstream.

Related concepts

Detachment and seeding · Mature community · Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS)

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🦠 biology