Which of the following are the ideal indicators for pathogens?

Which of the following are the ideal indicators for pathogens?

• A. Coliform group bacteria
• B. Organic compounds
• C. Heavy metals
• D. Nitrogen compounds

Answer: (A)

The ideal indicators for pathogens in water testing are those that can provide reliable and timely information regarding water safety, particularly concerning microbiological contamination. The coliform group of bacteria, especially fecal coliforms, are widely accepted as indicators of potential pathogen presence because they are commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and can indicate fecal contamination. The presence of coliform bacteria suggests that other harmful pathogens may also be present, making them effective indicators for water quality assessment. In contrast, organic compounds, heavy metals, and nitrogen compounds do not serve as reliable indicators for pathogens. While they can indicate other types of contamination or environmental quality issues, they do not specifically correlate with the presence of biological pathogens in the same direct way that coliform bacteria do. Thus, when assessing water safety in terms of microbial contamination, coliform group bacteria stand out as the most appropriate choice.

The ideal indicators for pathogens in water testing are those that can provide reliable and timely information regarding water safety, particularly concerning microbiological contamination. The coliform group of bacteria, especially fecal coliforms, are widely accepted as indicators of potential pathogen presence because they are commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and can indicate fecal contamination. The presence of coliform bacteria suggests that other harmful pathogens may also be present, making them effective indicators for water quality assessment.

In contrast, organic compounds, heavy metals, and nitrogen compounds do not serve as reliable indicators for pathogens. While they can indicate other types of contamination or environmental quality issues, they do not specifically correlate with the presence of biological pathogens in the same direct way that coliform bacteria do. Thus, when assessing water safety in terms of microbial contamination, coliform group bacteria stand out as the most appropriate choice.