ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI FROM RINGED WELL WATER FROM IREE TOWNSHIP

Water is essential for domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities. However, the quality of water intended for human use is very important because contaminated water can serve as a source of disease transmission. In many communities, ringed wells are common sources of domestic water supply, but such wells are often vulnerable to microbial contamination. This study examines the isolation and identification of Escherichia coli from ringed well water in Iree Township. Water samples were collected from selected ringed wells in Iree Township and subjected to microbiological analysis using standard laboratory methods. The samples were cultured on appropriate media for the isolation of bacterial organisms. Suspected isolates were further identified using colony characteristics, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. The findings are expected to reveal the presence of Escherichia coli in some of the ringed well water samples, indicating possible faecal contamination. The study may also show variation in contamination levels among different wells depending on environmental and sanitary conditions. The study concludes that the presence of Escherichia coli in ringed well water poses a potential health risk to consumers. It recommends proper treatment of well water before use, regular sanitary inspection of wells, and improved environmental hygiene within the township.