I was wondering if anyone has used atomic force microscopy for studying biofilm development in gram positive bacteria in real time. If yes, what were the results, can they be compared to SEM in terms of cellular architecture. Is there anyother technique which is better for seeing bacterial biofilms other than AFM?

AFM is notoriously unsuited for soft things as biofilms, except the early phases.

We have had a modified setup, but until it is published I cannot tell you more.

 

If yes, what were the results, can they be compared to SEM in terms of cellular architecture.

Do you mean how AFM images looked like compared to SEMs? Well, you get toplogical information, of course.

 

For most part a lot can be done by fluorescence microscopy. In fact, this is the usual setup to monitor biofilm formation.