TED-ED: The microbial jungles all over the place (and you) - Scott Chimileski and Roberto Kolter

The video explores the world of microbes and biofilms, highlighting their formation, benefits, and interactions. Biofilms are complex communities of microbes that provide stability, protection, and opportunities for communication and cooperation. They play a crucial role in ecosystems, contributing to oxygen production, pollution cleanup, and food flavor enhancement. Despite their microscopic size, biofilms have significant impacts on both natural environments and human activities.

What are biofilms and how do they form?

Describe the role of the extracellular matrix in biofilms.

Why do microbes prefer to live in biofilms rather than alone?

What is meant by 'division of labor' in microbial communities?

Explain the competitive interactions that can occur within biofilms.

How do microbial communities benefit larger organisms, including humans?

What are some examples of foods that involve biofilms in their production?