What is a common indicator of microbial contamination in drinking water?

The presence of coliform bacteria is a well-established indicator of microbial contamination in drinking water. Coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the environment, including in soil and vegetation, as well as in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Their presence in drinking water suggests that the water may be contaminated with fecal material, which can harbor pathogenic microorganisms that pose serious health risks. Therefore, testing for coliform bacteria is a vital part of water quality assessments, as it helps determine whether the water is safe for consumption.

High levels of chlorine might indicate that water is being treated for disinfection but does not directly point to microbial contamination. Increased turbidity can suggest the presence of particulates that could harbor microorganisms, but it is not a definitive indicator of microbial contamination specifically. Color changes in water might indicate various pollutants or issues, but they do not specifically denote microbial presence. Thus, testing for coliform bacteria remains the primary method to assess the potential for harmful microbial contamination in drinking water.