Biofilm formation typically follows a series of well-defined stages:
Initial Attachment: Microorganisms adhere to a surface using weak van der Waals forces. Irreversible Attachment: The microbes produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) to anchor themselves more firmly. Maturation: The biofilm grows through cell division and recruitment of planktonic cells. Dispersion: Cells are released from the biofilm to colonize new niches.
