EVALUATION OF MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF WATER USING MOST PROBABLE NUMBER TECHNIQUES (MPN) AT DANBATTA DAM
Abstract
This study assesses the physicochemical properties and microbiological quality of water samples from five different locations (A–E). The physicochemical analysis revealed temperature values ranging from 28.2°C to 28.7°C, with pH values between 5.11 and 6.77, indicating slightly acidic conditions. The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) ranged from 72.08 to 75.51 mg/L, while electrical conductivity (E/C) varied between 106.4 and 109.8 μS/cm. Turbidity levels exceeded 160 NTU, and nitrate (NO₃) concentrations remained below 3 mg/L. The presence of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) suggests a potential impact on water hardness. The microbiological analysis indicated high aerobic mesophilic counts, with averages ranging from 292 to 308 CFU/mL, suggesting microbial contamination. Coliform counts ranged from 63 to 87 CFU/mL, exceeding safe drinking water limits. The presumptive and confirmed tests identified Escherichia coli (E. coli) in all samples, confirmed by Gram staining and biochemical tests, indicating fecal contamination. These findings highlight potential health risks associated with consuming or using the water samples, emphasizing the need for proper treatment and regular monitoring to ensure safe drinking water standards.
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