colonies

Cells within various multicellular structures
Fruiting bodies
• Can differentiate into “specialised” cell
variants (e.g. resistant spores).
• Can interact, communicate and synchronise
their development. Can better adapt to
changed environment.
• Exhibit altruistic-like behaviour (programmed
cell-lysis).
• Better protected against environment
Life within a community
Yeast colonies
• Offers possibilities for development and
survival that are ruled out in individual cells
• Profit of an individual can be subordinated
to that of the community