The difference between 'Capsule' and 'Slime Layer'

[ivoryline9]

As the title implies, what is the difference between a 'Capsule' and the 'Slime Layer' in dealing with bacteria?

thanks so much!

[MillieKittan]

Have you tried researching it on the web, or looked in a text book from the library? I've never been one for doing someone else's homework after all, and you give no indication you've tried to find an answer yet...

No offence, but yeah...

[ivoryline9]

Yes, actually. I have. Maybe I'm just not looking in the right place. (: Both seem to be some sort of protective shield around the bacteria. From what I've read, the slime layer is secreted by the bacteria.

Is that the ONLY differences between the two?

Also, this isn't for homework, but merely, my professor is rather vague, and I just wanted to know.

[MillieKittan]

I got a good explanation on the first try of google, which was also accurate.

[ivoryline9]

I did as well. However I was entirely lost on the terminology. I haven't been in a Biology class for many years now. I merely thought this website would be able to explain things in more layman terminology. Clearly, if the rest of the posters are like yourself, the answer is simply, "Hey! Go google it!"

Thank you for your lack of help and utmost rudeness.

[canalon]

Composition and structure mainly. One is stronger and more organized than the other.

[MillieKittan]

I wasn't trying to be rude, I wasn't sure if you were trying to get us to do your homework or not, so my answer was pretty vague at best, just in case.

I was referring to the fact that the very first link on Google when you search 'difference between a slime layer and capsule'is both informative and low on the technical terms. The two that might cause problems were easy to find using the 'define: word' google function.

Sorry for causing any offence.