Exploring the Diversity of Biofilm Formation by the Food Spoiler <i>Brochothrix thermosphacta</i>

Abstract

Brochothrix thermosphacta is considered as a major spoiler of meat and seafood products. This study explores the biofilm formation ability and the biofilm structural diversity of 30 multi-origin B. thermosphacta strains using a set of complementary biofilm assays (biofilm ring test, crystal violet staining, and confocal laser scanning microscopy). Two major groups corresponding to low and high biofilm producers were identified. High biofilm producers presented flat architectures characterized by high surface coverage, high cell biovolume, and high surface area.

Keywords

• <i>Brochothrix thermosphacta</i>
• biofilm
• biofilm ring test
• crystal violet
• confocal laser scanning microscopy
• diversity