Final answer:
The statement is false; quorum sensing can occur between different species within biofilm communities, facilitating inter-species communication and coordinated behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that quorum sensing always occurs between members of the same species is false. Quorum sensing is a communication mechanism where microorganisms detect and respond to the cell density of their environment through the release and binding of autoinducers. These signals can lead to changes in gene expression and influence behaviors such as biofilm formation, virulence, and bioluminescence. It is important to note that quorum sensing can occur not only within a single species but also between different species, particularly in biofilm communities that may contain multiple species of bacteria.
For instance, biofilms can be complex colonies of diverse microorganisms that communicate and coordinate behavior to effectively respond to environmental stimuli. Additionally, certain biochemical pathways in quorum sensing are shared across species, allowing for inter-species communication. This concept is particularly interesting when considering that signaling molecules such as those used by gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria serve as a common language enabling crosstalk between distinct bacterial communities.