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In photosynthetic bacteria such as Cyanobacteria, Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, the bacteria need access to both light, CO2, and water to perform photosynthesis.

However, in thick biofilm structures (e.g. a sphere or any 3D shape), I feel that physiologically the cells inside the biofilm 3D structure won't have direct access to sunlight, due to the outer cells forming layers blocking sunlight. Moreover, the inner cells are less likely to have the same access to carbon dioxide and water as the outer cells of the 3D construct.

So, Does the biofilm formation affect the viability and efficiency of the photosynthetic bacteria? or Do the bacteria have a mechanism to transfer the photons of light, gas, and moisture inside the biofilm?

David
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Anwar Elhadad
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    Interesting question, In addition I wonder if the Cyanobacteria in a biofilm perform any activity normally seen in eukaryotic organisms. Namely nutrient transfer – Gabriel Fair Feb 14 '22 at 18:28
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Most of the constituents of Phototrophic biofilms are transparent by which light can easily pass. Phototrophic biofilm are very essential for the growth of photosynthetic microbs (colonies).Due to the presence of glycolipids the 3D structure act as lens which evenly distribute the light in the Phototrophic biofilm.

Dr. Uzair Ali
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  • Even if lights pass, does the wavelength delivered get affected. Furthermore, How about the nutrient and gases transfer? – Anwar Elhadad Feb 21 '22 at 20:21