What type of bacteria is commonly associated with fecal contamination in water?

What type of bacteria is commonly associated with fecal contamination in water?

• A. Pathogenic bacteria
• B. Coliform bacteria
• C. Aerobic bacteria
• D. Anaerobic bacteria

Answer: (B)

Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms found in the environment, including in feces from warm-blooded animals. Their presence in water is a strong indicator of potential fecal contamination and the possible presence of harmful pathogens. This is because coliforms, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, and thus their detection in water samples suggests that the water could be contaminated with fecal matter. Monitoring for coliform bacteria is a standard practice in water quality testing because it helps to ensure that drinking water is safe. While pathogenic bacteria refer to harmful bacteria that can cause disease, coliform bacteria specifically serve as a marker for fecal contamination, making them particularly relevant in assessing water safety. Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, on the other hand, are categorized based on their oxygen requirements and do not specifically indicate fecal contamination.

Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms found in the environment, including in feces from warm-blooded animals. Their presence in water is a strong indicator of potential fecal contamination and the possible presence of harmful pathogens. This is because coliforms, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), are commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, and thus their detection in water samples suggests that the water could be contaminated with fecal matter.

Monitoring for coliform bacteria is a standard practice in water quality testing because it helps to ensure that drinking water is safe. While pathogenic bacteria refer to harmful bacteria that can cause disease, coliform bacteria specifically serve as a marker for fecal contamination, making them particularly relevant in assessing water safety. Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, on the other hand, are categorized based on their oxygen requirements and do not specifically indicate fecal contamination.