If bacteria within a biofilm experience nutrient scarcity, which consequence related to their group coordination is most likely?

💡 Explanation

Nutrient scarcity triggers increased production of autoinducers, which reach a threshold concentration that activates genes promoting biofilm dispersal. This coordination is mediated by quorum sensing because it requires a specific population density rather than individual action; therefore, accelerated dispersal occurs, rather than altered mutation, cell wall changes, or nutrient uptake.

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