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A Semi-quantitative Approach to Assess Biofilm Formation Using Wrinkled Colony Development
Published on: June 7, 2012
Biofilm formation by the fish pathogen Flavobacterium columnare: development and parameters affecting surface
Wenlong Cai1, Leonardo De La Fuente, Covadonga R Arias
1Aquatic Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquaculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA.
Applied and Environmental Microbiology
|July 16, 2013
Summary
Flavobacterium columnare forms resilient biofilms on surfaces, serving as a contagion source in aquaculture. Controlling water hardness and salinity can prevent its spread in fish farming.
Area of Science:
- Aquatic microbiology
- Fish pathology
- Bacterial biofilms
Background:
- Flavobacterium columnare is a significant bacterial pathogen affecting freshwater fish globally.
- Its reservoir is unknown, but biofilms are suspected to be the primary source of contagion in aquaculture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Flavobacterium columnare biofilm formation dynamics and morphology.
- To assess the impact of environmental factors (temperature, pH, salinity, hardness, carbohydrates) on biofilm development.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen F. columnare strains were used to study biofilm formation under static and flow conditions.
- Microscopy techniques (light, confocal laser scanning, scanning electron) were employed for structural characterization.
- Physicochemical parameters were systematically varied to evaluate their effects.
Main Results:
- F. columnare efficiently forms biofilms, initiating colonization within 6 hours and forming microcolonies within 24 hours.
- Mature biofilms (24-48 hours) exhibited extracellular polysaccharides and water channels.
- Biofilm formation was significantly influenced by water hardness, salinity, and mannose presence.
Conclusions:
- Flavobacterium columnare readily forms biofilms on inert surfaces, contributing to its persistence in aquaculture.
- Water hardness and salinity are key factors modulating biofilm formation, suggesting management strategies for prevention.
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