Productivity and equilibrium in simple biofilm models

Bull Math Biol. 2012 Dec;74(12):2917-34. doi: 10.1007/s11538-012-9791-4. Epub 2012 Nov 16.

Abstract

Biofilms are dense, sessile collections of microorganisms with complicated internal structures. However, in many applications internal details are less important, rather basic, averaged information such as overall community productivity are of most interest. This paper studies averaged community functions in the context of one dimensional, single species, single limiting substrate biofilm models. In particular, using a derived formula for flux of substrate into the biofilm as a function of biofilm height and substrate loading, overall community production can be calculated and system equilibria can be characterized. Consequences for equilibria dependence on a number of mechanisms for balancing growth are considered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biofilms* / growth & development
  • Hydrodynamics
  • Mathematical Concepts
  • Microbial Consortia
  • Models, Biological*
  • Stress, Mechanical