Fecal Coliform Aquatic Ecology

Fecal Coliform Now that you have researched FC: What is FC? How can one be affected by FC? Is it a factor in Manahawkin Lake? Is it a factor in our drinking water?

Definition A group of organisms found in the intestinal tracts of people and animals. Their presence in water indicates pollution and in large numbers may pose a health hazard.

The Factor Any amount of fecal coliform in water is a problem. Drinking water_____________1FC Total body contact__________200FC Partial body contact_________1000FC Threated sewage effluent_____200 FC Total body contact- swimming Partial body contact- boating Not to exceed 200 FC for sewage effluent

Monitoring The Levels Pathogens are relatively scarce in water, making them difficult and time-consuming to monitor directly. Instead, fecal coliform levels are monitored, because of the correlation between fecal coliform counts and the probability of contracting a disease from the water.

Sources How does it get into the water system, especially lakes?

The Sources The presence of fecal coliform bacteria in aquatic environments indicates that the water has been contaminated with the fecal material of man or other animals. These bacteria can enter rivers through direct discharge from mammals and birds, from agricultural and storm runoff carrying wastes from birds and mammals and from human sewage discharge into the water. The fecal coliform bacteria is a group of organisms found in the intestinal tracts of people and animals. Fecal coliform by themselves are not pathogenic. Pathogenic organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause diseases and illnesses.

The Impact Some waterborne pathogenic diseases include typhoid fever, viral and bacterial gastroenteritis and hepatitis A. The presence of fecal contamination is an indicator that a potential health risk exists for individuals exposed to this water.

Monitoring How can we test for FC?

Testing Coliscan Easy Gel

Identifying FC

Sources http://www.wavcc.org/wvc/cadre/WaterQuality/fecal.HTM http://www.rmsc.org/communitylearning/partners/wec/glossary/ http://www.state.ky.us/nrepc/water/wcpfcol.htm