Mechanomorphogenesis

Bacteria are able to move around by propelling themself forward in liquid environments but can also settle down on surfaces and form biofilms. Biofilms are surface-associated bacterial communities containing bacteria that adhere to each other embedded in a self-manufactured matrix. Biofilms can develop spectacular patterns driven by forces od mechanical instability and interfacial energy that builds up within the organic structure if one layer grows faster than an adjacent layer. This stress is released by the formation of wrinkling, folding or creasing and even lead to small parts to detach from the substrate to form blisters. A fantastic interplay of mechanical forces and organic growth leads to mesmerising biostructures that form surprising concentric and symetric patterns.