Indicator Organisms

Abstract

Indicator bacteria are the most common way of assessing biological water quality. Indicator bacteria are bacteria that can predict the presence of pathogenic organisms. To be a successful indicator, the following criteria must be met: Indicator bacteria must be easy to cultivate in the laboratory using simple, cost‐effective procedures. Indicator bacteria must be present in high enough concentrations to be readily detectable in a manageable sample volume. Indicator bacteria must effectively predict the risk of illness from exposure to the waterborne pathogens present in contaminated water.