Bacteriocins are gene-encoded antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria, exhibiting diverse structures, biosynthetic pathways, and modes of action. They are widespread in nature and play a crucial role in microbial competition and communication. This review highlights the ecological significance of bacteriocins, focusing on their distribution, mobility, and impact on bacterial population dynamics and biofilms. Bacteriocins can target specific bacteria, contributing to microbial diversity and resource competition. They are also involved in cell lysis, DNA release for natural transformation, and interactions with regulatory networks. The regulation of bacteriocin production is complex, involving quorum sensing, dedicated regulators, and horizontal gene transfer. Bacteriocins can have both antimicrobial and non-antimicrobial effects, influencing cellular responses and immune systems. The role of bacteriocins in biofilms is particularly interesting, as they can modulate biofilm formation and disrupt established biofilms. The multifaceted roles of bacteriocins in natural environments highlight their importance in microbial interactions and community dynamics.Bacteriocins are gene-encoded antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria, exhibiting diverse structures, biosynthetic pathways, and modes of action. They are widespread in nature and play a crucial role in microbial competition and communication. This review highlights the ecological significance of bacteriocins, focusing on their distribution, mobility, and impact on bacterial population dynamics and biofilms. Bacteriocins can target specific bacteria, contributing to microbial diversity and resource competition. They are also involved in cell lysis, DNA release for natural transformation, and interactions with regulatory networks. The regulation of bacteriocin production is complex, involving quorum sensing, dedicated regulators, and horizontal gene transfer. Bacteriocins can have both antimicrobial and non-antimicrobial effects, influencing cellular responses and immune systems. The role of bacteriocins in biofilms is particularly interesting, as they can modulate biofilm formation and disrupt established biofilms. The multifaceted roles of bacteriocins in natural environments highlight their importance in microbial interactions and community dynamics.