Which of the following is false regarding biofilms? a. They tend to consist of one species of microbe. b. They are platforms on which pathogens may adhere. c. They form on indwelling devices. d. They may harbor pathogens. e. They can form on natural and manufactured surfaces.
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Step 1: Understand what a biofilm is. A biofilm is a complex aggregation of microorganisms growing on a solid substrate, often embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS).
Step 2: Analyze option (a): 'They tend to consist of one species of microbe.' Biofilms are typically composed of multiple species of microbes living together, not just one species.
Step 3: Review options (b), (c), (d), and (e): These describe known characteristics of biofilms, such as serving as platforms for pathogen adherence, forming on indwelling medical devices, harboring pathogens, and forming on both natural and manufactured surfaces.
Step 4: Compare all options and identify which statement contradicts the general understanding of biofilms. Since biofilms usually contain multiple species, option (a) is false.
Step 5: Conclude that the false statement regarding biofilms is option (a), while the other options correctly describe biofilm characteristics.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Biofilm Composition
Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that typically consist of multiple species living together. This diversity allows for enhanced survival and resistance to environmental stresses compared to single-species populations.
Biofilms can form on a variety of surfaces, both natural (like teeth or mucous membranes) and manufactured (such as catheters or implants). These surfaces provide a platform for microbes to adhere and establish persistent communities.
Biofilms can harbor pathogens, making infections difficult to treat because microbes within biofilms are protected from antibiotics and the immune system. They often form on indwelling medical devices, contributing to healthcare-associated infections.