Correlation of macroscopic aggregation behavior and microscopic adhesion properties of bacteria strains using a dimensionless Tabor's parameter

► Macroscopic aggregation of seven bacteria strains characterized by standard optical method. ► Microscopic mechanical characterization of single cells using AFM to yield elastic modulus, adhesion, shape and dimension. ► Strong correlation shown between microscopic and macroscopic properties via a modified Tabor's parameter. ► Cost and time effective microscopic characterization method yields reliable prediction of macroscopic behavior. ► Results have significant impacts in adhesion-aggregation-transportation of bacteria in wastewater treatment and bioremediation.