External component beyond the cell wall, Chapter 2 part 4

Glycocalyx

Outermost layer of cell envelope, refering to both capsule and slime layer. (Biofilm)

Capsule

Well organised layer of polysaccharide that isn’t easily removed from the cell.

(1) prevents desiccation

(2)physical protection

(3) evading the immune response

Slime Layer

similar to capsule

1-diffuse

2-unorganised

3-easily removed

4-aid in motility (gliding)

Surface Array (s-layer)

Structured layer of protein that covers the surface cell

1-protection form ion/pH/osmotic stress

2-maintain shape/rigdity 

3-protect from host defense

Biofilm

A multicellular community of microbes protected by glycocalyx, it enhances the survivability of a bacteria