periphytic

/ˌpɛrɪˈfɪtɪk/
adjective
  1. Relating to or describing organisms (especially algae or bacteria) that attach themselves to surfaces underwater, such as rocks, plants, or artificial structures.
    • The periphytic algae on the submerged logs provide food for small fish.
    • Periphytic bacteria form a slimy layer on the inside of aquarium glass.
    • Scientists studied the periphytic community growing on the dock pilings.
Antonyms
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