Positive biofilms to control surface-associated microbial communities in a broiler chicken production system - a field study

Abstract

In the One Health concept, the use of beneficial bacteria to form positive biofilms that prevent the settlement of undesirable bacteria is a promising solution to limit the use of antimicrobials on farms. However, there is a lack of field studies reporting the onset of these beneficial bacteria after application and the effects on autochthonous surface microbiota. In the study reported here, the inner surfaces of commercial broiler chicken houses were treated or not with a bacterial consortium composed of Bacillus spp. and Pediococcus spp. strains, able to form covering biofilms in different laboratory models. Preinstalled coupons were sampled over time to capture microbial biofilm dynamics on-farm surfaces. The results showed that the bacterial consortium can establish on the farm surfaces, modulate microbial communities, and limit the implantation of Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae, two families containing potential pathogens.

Migration of surface-associated microbial communities in spaceflight habitats

“…The concept here is to consider that if any surface supports microbial life it is worth settling selected beneficial organisms able to exclude unwanted microorganisms. This positive biofilm approach is applied in a One Health context to limit microbial pathogens on the surface of livestock buildings [215]. This biological approach has shifted from labs to farms in recent years with various commercial products now on the market in several countries paving the way for applications in spatial missions [216].…”

Conditioner application improves bedding quality and bacterial composition with potential beneficial impacts for dairy cow’s health

“…The use of specific bacteria meant to drive the microbial populations through fermentation is widely used in agronomy (silage inoculant (28), composting process (29), …). Bioremediation and ecological niche occupation with specific bacterial strains have also been successfully employed in soil depollution (30) or positive biofilm production in food industry for example (31,32). The bedding conditioner tested in this study is composed of a cocktail of Bacillus and Pediococcus strains and enzymes aiming at promoting beneficial bacteria and limiting the presence of undesirable microorganisms through the development of a biofilm.…”