The term "periphyton" refers to the collection of seabed plants and microbes in an aquatic environment. They represent all of the organisms that are eating and being eaten. The periphyton is the living "coating" of the seafloor.

periphyton

Periphyton , the gross looking stuff in the hot springs

Richard E. Rupp has written:

'A study of periphyton biomass measurement variability using cellulose acetate strips' -- subject(s): Effect of water pollution on, Environmental aspects, Measurement, Periphyton, Waste disposal, Wood-pulp industry

Edward Todd Howell has written:

'Ecology of periphyton associated with iseotid plants in low alkalinity lakes'