Bacteriological Examination Of Rivers
(Case Study Of Idodo River)
Conducting a bacteriological examination of rivers is essential for assessing water quality and potential health risks associated with recreational activities or water consumption. This comprehensive analysis involves the detection and quantification of various bacteria, including pathogenic strains such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Vibrio cholerae, among others, which can indicate contamination from sewage, agricultural runoff, or industrial discharge. By employing standardized methods like membrane filtration or culture-based techniques, researchers can determine the presence and abundance of these microorganisms, enabling authorities to implement appropriate measures to safeguard public health and mitigate environmental pollution. Moreover, integrating molecular biology tools like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enhances the sensitivity and specificity of detection, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of microbial diversity and potential sources of contamination. Such investigations contribute to evidence-based decision-making for water resource management and the development of targeted interventions to preserve the ecological integrity and usability of freshwater ecosystems.
This work was aimed at assessing microbial coal of Idodo river in Enugu state Nigeria. The samples of river was obtained from the arc of low activity, and a place where human activities are very high. The samples were collected very early in the morning and afternoon. They were examined to determined the bacterial organisms that are pathogenic to man when they drink it from the samples were inoculated into media. Nutrient agar and macconkey agar media and incubate at the temperature range (350c – 370c). The following organisms were isolated. Streptococci faecalis ¬ clostridium Perfringens, Rhodococcis corphilus, Bifidobacteria, salmonella spp. The study shows that appropriate care should be taken to protect the river from being contaminated by these organisms. The quantity of pathogenic organisms collected were more in the afternoon.
Title page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Table of contents
List of tables
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background information
1.2 Aim and objectives of the study
1.3 Statement of problem
1.4 Hypothesis
1.5 Significance of the study
1.6 Limitation of the study
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Microbial examination of contaminated water
2.2 Sources of river contamination
2.3 Standard uses of river
CHAPTER THREE
Materials and method
3.1 Materials
3.2 Sample collection
3.3 Analysis of sample collected sample inoculation and growth
CHAPTER FOUR
Results
4.1 Discussion
CHAPTER FIVE
Conclusion and recommendation
5.1 Conclusion
5.2 Recommendation
References
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Natural water whether surface ground water, river, ocean or lakes contains variety of micro-organisms. The sanitary quality of drinking water is affected by both variety and number of micro-organisms. The sanitary quality of drinking water is affected by both Variety and number of micro-organisms available.
River is fit for drinking if its does not contain any micro-organism that are pathogenic to man. The WHO (1958) published the international standard for drinking water, in it water for consumption should be free from pathogenic organisms.
According to Howel (1994). He defined bacterial gience examination of river as the process of identification of bacteria organisms in the river. The bacteria organisms are pathogenic to man when they drink it. Some of the causative agents are singella dysenterae, vibro cholera, Salmonella Typhi, , Salmonella Paratyphi. Etc.
1.2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The aim of the study is to examine the micro-organisms in Idodo river. The specific objectives of the study are:
1. To identify the micro-organisms in the river.
2. To isolate the pathogenic organisms in the river.
1.3 STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS
The people that are using contaminated water are prone to different kinds of diseases. The diseases they suffered most are: dysentery, cholera, typhoid and paratyphoid. Etc. idodo river is likely to be contaminated at one time or the other due to human activities like washing, stooling, swimming etc. These activities are possible sources of pathogenic organisms when water or river is polluted it is no longer useful for human consumption and other domestic uses. Polluted river therefore is source of various kinds of health hazard.
1.4 HYPOTHESIS
H.O The river contains pathogenic micro-organisms.
H.I The river do not contain pathogenic micro-organisms
5.1 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
Evaluation of micro-organisms from river sensitizing people on the beset way to dispose wastes so as to avoid communicable diseases that are caused by pathogenic organisms.
To make sure that, the river is suitable for whatever it is selected for, like domestic use, cooking and washing.
1.6 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
Only Idodo river in Enugu metropolism is chosen for this work due to time constraint and financial setback.
The bacteriological examination of a river involves the collection and analysis of water samples from the river to determine the presence and concentration of various bacteria. This examination is crucial for assessing the water quality, understanding potential health risks, and monitoring the overall environmental health of the river. Here are the key steps and considerations for conducting a bacteriological examination of a river:
- Sample Collection:
- Select sampling sites that are representative of different parts of the river, including upstream and downstream locations, areas near pollution sources, and areas far from potential contamination.
- Use sterilized containers and equipment to collect water samples. The containers should be made of materials that do not leach contaminants into the water.
- Take care to avoid contamination during the sampling process. Do not touch the inside of the container or the sample water with your hands.
- Preservation:
- Keep the water samples at a low temperature (usually 4°C or 39°F) during transportation to the laboratory to prevent bacterial growth and changes in the microbial community.
- Laboratory Analysis:
- Analyze the water samples in a certified laboratory equipped for microbiological testing. Standard methods include membrane filtration, multiple tube fermentation, and various culture-based techniques.
- Determine the total coliform bacteria, fecal coliform bacteria, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) counts. These bacteria are commonly used as indicators of fecal contamination, which can pose health risks.
- Consider additional tests for specific pathogens if there are concerns about waterborne diseases in the area.
- Interpretation:
- Compare the bacterial counts in the river water to established water quality standards and guidelines. Regulatory agencies often set limits for acceptable bacterial levels in recreational waters and drinking water sources.
- Evaluate the results in the context of the river’s intended use. For instance, if the river is used for swimming or drinking water supply, stricter standards may apply.
- Assess the trends and changes in bacterial counts over time to identify any emerging issues or improvements in water quality.
- Reporting:
- Compile the results of the bacteriological examination into a comprehensive report.
- Include information about the sampling locations, dates, and methods used, as well as the laboratory’s accreditation and quality assurance practices.
- Communicate the findings to relevant authorities, stakeholders, and the public as appropriate.
- Remediation and Management:
- If the examination reveals high bacterial counts or contamination levels above acceptable standards, take appropriate remedial actions, such as identifying and addressing pollution sources or implementing water treatment measures.
Bacteriological examination of rivers is a valuable tool for safeguarding public health, protecting the environment, and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. It helps to identify potential risks, track water quality changes, and inform decision-making for water management and conservation efforts.