FIG. 3.

Chitinase genes are required for biofilm architecture on chitin surfaces during nutrient stress. Images show representative colonization by wild-type and chitinase mutant strains on crab shells (A to D) or synthetic chitin films (E to H). Bacteria were allowed to attach for 1 h and then incubated for 1 week at 30°C before being processed for SEM. In contrast to the extensive 3D biofilm development in wild-type F. novicida, the chitinase mutants were present as single bacteria or small clusters of bacteria on both natural and synthetic chitin.