Large-Scale Vortices with Dynamic Rotation Emerged from Monolayer Collective Motion of Gliding .

Abstract in brief

• The study investigates collective motion in nonflagellated bacteria, specifically Flavobacterium johnsoniae, which move via gliding motility rather than flagella.
• Researchers observed the formation of vortex patterns and large-scale circular plates on nutrient-low agar, where individual bacteria exhibited random movement but collectively formed organized vortex and rotational structures with a consistent counterclockwise direction.
• These findings reveal a novel mode of collective bacterial behavior, showcasing how simple surface cell movements can lead to complex and efficient large-scale patterns potentially vital for bacterial survival.