The glycocalyx and slime layer help bacteria to adhere to external surfaces or other bacteria to produce colonies. These structures prevent phagocytosis and desiccation (the capsule retains water). 

Functions of Glycocalyx & the Slime Layer

The slime layer is a looser layer attached to the cell wall.

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The capsule is the extracellular layer of the bacterial cell. Generally, they are composed of polysaccharides and proteins. The capsule may allow a bacteria to be more infectious by making it more difficult to be engulfed by white blood cells. 

Capsule

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

A bacterial capsule is a rigid layer of polysaccharides. They allow bacteria to stick to surfaces.

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