The utiquity and many roles of exopolymers (EPS) in aquatic systems

Authors

  • Roger S. Wotton Department of Biology, University College London

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3989/scimar.2004.68s113

Keywords:

EPS, exopolymers, mucus, unicellular organisms, multicellular organisms, fibrils, flocs, aggregates

Abstract


Exopolymers (EPS) are produced by unicellular and multicellular organisms. They consist largely of polysaccharides that hydrate rapidly on contact with water and link to form gels. EPS have many uses: in attachment; in locomotion on substrata; as a protection against predators, pathogens and changes in physico-chemical conditions; as a means of overcoming the threat of desiccation; in preventing abrasion; and in feeding. When free of organisms, some EPS form loosely associated polymer gels that are important in the development of organic matter aggregates. These aggregates, together with mucus-bound faecal pellets, play an essential role in nutrient cycling, and in the metabolism of ecosystems.;

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Published

2004-04-30

How to Cite

1.
Wotton RS. The utiquity and many roles of exopolymers (EPS) in aquatic systems. Sci. mar. [Internet]. 2004Apr.30 [cited 2024Mar.29];68(S1):13-21. Available from: https://scientiamarina.revistas.csic.es/index.php/scientiamarina/article/view/377

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Section

Articles