Custom Designed 3D Microbial Traps for the Spatial Manipulation of Microbial Activity and Functional Properties in the Environment

We study how bacteria and microbial communities respond to the three-dimensional geometry of their habitats. We fabricate micro-particles and micro-traps that, like lobster traps, direct motile bacteria and confine them in desired spaces. We then analyze emergent functions and geochemical properties of the trapped bacteria. We use numerical models to inform their behavior and improve the design of the micro-habitats for different microbial species. These microtraps are useful to study bacteria interactions on laboratory model cultures, as well as to capture novel groups of microorganisms from environmental samples. Similar designs could then be adapted for medical and environmental applications.”