What is the role of bacterial flagella?

Bacterial flagella play a crucial role in the motility of bacteria, allowing them to move toward favorable environments and away from harmful substances. Flagella are long, whip-like structures that rotate like a propeller, providing the necessary propulsion for the bacterium to swim through liquid environments. This movement is vital for many bacteria as it enables them to seek out nutrients, evade immune responses, and colonize various surfaces, including host tissues.

The ability of flagella to facilitate movement is particularly important for bacteria in dynamic environments, such as those found in the human body, where they must navigate towards sources of nutrients or away from harmful conditions. Through this motility, flagella also contribute to the overall survival and adaptability of bacterial species in diverse ecological niches.