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    Illustration of green water

    Biofilm & surface film

    surface biofilm 1 1

    What you see

    The phenomenon occurs exclusively at the surface, in the form of a continuous, persistent haze:

    • The surface has rainbow-colored reflections that resemble a thin oil slick, even though there is no chemical pollution.
    • It has a dusty or slightly oily appearance. When the water is disturbed (by throwing a stone or a stick), the film breaks into geometric patterns before slowly reforming.
    • Gas bubbles rising from the bottom do not burst immediately at the surface. They remain trapped beneath the film, sometimes forming a whitish or brownish scum.

    This phenomenon is always confined to areas with low water turnover that are sheltered from the wind (coves, backwaters, and overgrown banks).

    What this means

    This film corresponds to the formation of a surface biofilm, scientifically known as neuston.

    This is not merely dirt, but an organized and complex biological structure composed of:

    • A high concentration of proteins and lipids that rise from the bottom and are trapped by surface tension.
    • Opportunistic bacteria thrive on this carbon-rich substrate.
    • These bacteria secrete a protective mucus that binds the particles together and solidifies the film.

    Your body of water is suffering from a twofold imbalance: high levels of dissolved organic matter combined with poor water circulation (lack of mixing). The air-water interface is saturated and biologically stagnant.

    biofilm surface film 2 1

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    Why act now?

    Although extremely thin, this biofilm acts as an impermeable physical barrier that profoundly alters the balance of the environment:

    1. The film blocks the transfer of atmospheric oxygen into the water and slows the release of toxic compounds (ammonia, methane) into the air. The ecosystem is at risk of gradual suffocation.
    2. By absorbing solar radiation, this dark film raises the temperature of the surface layer, promoting algal growth.
    3. This biofilm serves as a breeding ground for more problematic species, particularly microalgae and certain cyanobacteria, which find an ideal nutrient-rich environment there.
    4. The water loses its mirror-like appearance and becomes dull and stagnant, which also encourages the development of insect larvae (mosquitoes).

    The TASO Solution
    Breaking down the structure and reducing the organic load

    The use of chemical dispersants is ineffective because the biofilm reforms quickly. TASO favors a biological and physical breakdown approach.

    1

    Biological action (Matrix degradation)

    We address the root cause: the presence of dissolved nutrients. The introduction of lipolytic and proteolytic bacterial complexes allows for colonization of the surface. These specific strains break down the organic matrix that forms the framework of the biofilm, thereby disrupting its cohesion.

    2

    Ultrasonic action (Physical disruption)

    In large-scale applications, our ultrasonic transducers prevent microorganisms from forming a cohesive biofilm. The acoustic vibrations disrupt bacterial communication and the stability of the biofilm, limiting its regrowth.

    3

    Hydrodynamic Action (Circulation)

    In addition, we restore water circulation in dead zones. Surface agitation mechanically breaks surface tension, disperses materials, and restores vital gas exchange.

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    Products & Related Solutions

    To restore a functional air-water interface:

    nautex

    Nautex

    the standard mineral treatment for all bodies of water
    Learn more
    cyanocline

    Cyanocline Control

    biological control of cyanobacterial blooms
    Learn more

    Need a study?

    Each protocol is tailored to the initial assessment, the characteristics of the body of water, and its intended uses.

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