This seemingly random structure is actually highly organized. Water flows through the biofilm. This allows for the delivery of nutrients and the removal of wastes. It is essentially a circulatory system. Moreover, some bacteria feed off the waste products of others.
Some bacteria ingest dead cells.
This highly complex microbial ecology can be harnessed for wastewater treatment. My research included the establishment of a controlled environment for the biofilm, which was grown in common culture. I designed and modified the tanks and then cultured the bacterial biofilms. The status of these biofilms was examined through fluorescence microscopy. I am continuing my research as my Honors research thesis.