Statistical physics of switching bacteria

Population of bacteria are often heterogeneous, even though the bacteria are genetically identical and live in the same environment. This heterogeneity represents in fact a strategy aimed at surviving against environmental changes. After describing some biological examples, I will briefly review the existing literature on the subject. Then, I will propose a new scenario, in which environmental changes are characterised by catastrophes (sudden drops in the population size), and the environment is responsive, meaning that its changes depend on the actual state of the population. Finally I will discuss why and when switching can be a good strategy for the population itself.