Coliform Group and Fecal Coliform Organisms as Indicators of Pollution in Drinking Water

Abstract

The presence of any type of coliform organism in treated drinking water suggests either inadequate treatment or access of undesirable materials to the water after treatment. Although there are some differences between strain and subgroup organisms with regard to survival under natural conditions and resistance to chlorination, in general all the coliform organisms exhibit survival and resistance patterns in the same order of magnitude. The presence of coliform organisms (as defined earlier) in treated water calls for definitive action for their elimination. Insofar as bacterial pathogens are concerned, the coliform group is considered a reliable indicator of the adequacy of treatment. As an indicator of pollution in drinking water supply systems, and indirectly as an indication of protection provided, the coliform group is preferred to fecal coliform organisms (E. coli). Whether these considerations can be extended to include rickettsial and viral organisms has not been definitely determined.

Evaluation de la pollution physico-chimique et microbienne des eaux de puits de Dang-Ngaoundéré (Cameroun)

“…Une corrélation positive (r = 0,58) au seuil de 5% a été trouvée. Ces bactéries coliformes sont rencontrées largement dans les fèces d'origine animale et humaine (Kabler et Clark, 1961). C'est pourquoi elles se retrouvent en abondance dans les puits situés près des installations septiques.…”

Evaluation of the Autoanalysis Colilert test for detection and enumeration of total coliforms

“…The total coliform group of organisms is the principal indicator used to assess the microbiological quality of drinking water. The culture characteristics and the sanitary significance of coliform organisms have been studied extensively (3,6,12,15,16). The presence of any member of the coliform group in treated water suggests either inadequate treatment or contamination after disinfection.…”

Impact of verification media and resuscitation on accuracy of the membrane filter total coliform enumeration technique

“…The monitoring of water supplies for the presence of total coliform bacteria is one means by which the sanitary quality of the supply is de-termined. The presence of any coliform bacteria in drinking water is an indication of a contaminated source, inadequate treatment, or posttreatment contamination and may be of sanitary significance (4,7,19). In untreated surface waters the number of coliforms present is an index of the overall sanitary quality.…”