The bacterial structures (TTGE) of H. ostrearia biofilm and bulk sediment are distinct.

A bacterial structure varies with the geographic origin of H. ostrearia.

Metabolic profiles are more distinct for bacteria-algae than for algal monocultures.

The bacterial structure of the phycosphere is specific to the algal growth stage.

The bacterial structure of the phycosphere remains unchanged over a 9-month subculturing.