A community of microorganisms adhered to a surface within an aquatic system, typically encased in a self-produced extracellular polymeric matrix.
A biofilm is a community of microorganisms adhered to a surface within an aquatic system. In water utility distribution systems, biofilm drives operational and water-quality issues including chlorine demand, taste-and-odor complaints, and corrosion. Reducing algae load at the source — via floating covers on storage reservoirs — reduces the precursors that feed downstream biofilm formation.