A film will grow in the bottom of any water dish. It seems that life likes and needs water to live. It can be caused by bateria, fungus, any micro organisms, ect., and the fact that it is stagnant and in a warm environment which will excelerate the growth. It is important to not just top off your water bowls but to wash them out with soap and water and change water often. I use several types of bowls, ceramic, stainless steel, and plastic, some tend to be better growth surfaces for bateria but they all get it after a couple days.