Khezri M. 2016. Biofilm formation in probiotic bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Plant Pathology Science 5(2):52-62.
Most bacteria have a common ability to form communities known as biofilm. They are varied in structure and function, but have some similarities in general properties. The main compounds of biofilms are extracellular polysaccharides. The probiotic Bacillus subtilis is a gram-positive, rod-shape, endospore-forming and soil inhabiting bacterium that has many agricultural use, such as plant growth promoting activity and biocontrol potential against many of phytopathogens. Biofilm formation is an important microbial survival strategy that enables microorganisms to stay together for long time. Biofilm can protect the bacteria against unfavorable conditions, like antibiotics, chemical pesticides and biocide components. Capability of biofilm formation in probiotic B. subtilis plays significant role in root colonization and biological control of plant pathogens.
