Cell aggregation occurs throughout microbiology, in [[bacteria]], [[filamentous algae]], [[fungi]] and [[yeast]] (Lewin, 1984; Stratford, 1992). Yeast are capable of forming three aggregates; mating aggregates, for DNA exchange; chain formation, for development and differentiation; and flocs as a survival strategy in adverse conditions (Calleja, 1987). Brewing strains are [[polyploid]] so mating aggregates do not occur. Therefore only chain formation and flocculation are of relevance to the brewing industry. | Cell aggregation occurs throughout microbiology, in [[bacteria]], [[filamentous algae]], [[fungi]] and [[yeast]] (Lewin, 1984; Stratford, 1992). Yeast are capable of forming three aggregates; mating aggregates, for DNA exchange; chain formation, for development and differentiation; and flocs as a survival strategy in adverse conditions (Calleja, 1987). Brewing strains are [[polyploid]] so mating aggregates do not occur. Therefore only chain formation and flocculation are of relevance to the brewing industry. |