If not, what are the other methods?
i am screening stationary phase phenotype differences between wild type and mutant E. coli and main phenotype was the growth difference (OD at the stationary phase showed 3 fold alteration).
I decided to investigate the other growth phenotypes including biofilm formation. I have came across Congo red as commonly used method. Is it reliable, and what are the weaknesses and disadvantages of this method?
Congo Red binds to celulose component of E.coli biofilm matrix, but also to specific types of adhesins. CR is thus little bit un-specific for E.coli. If You have got money for Your project, invest in fluorescent dyes - they are very accurate and specific. If Your funds are gone, use congo red, crystal violet and ie. saphranine dyes. Combine results and obtain as much data as it is possible:)
Congo Red binds endo-beta-glycosidic bonds, not necessarily cellulosem, thus it should be relible for your purposes if the matrix consists of these type of glycosides...
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