Fecal Coliform Bacteria

A group of bacteria found in the intestinal tract of humans and
animals, and also found in soil. While harmless in themselves,
coliform bacteria are commonly used as indicators of the presence
of pathogenic organisms and other disease-causing bacteria, such
as those that cause typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis A and cholera.
Measured in number of bacteria per 100 milliliters of water.
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Failing septic systems and runoff from feedlots are common
sources of fecal coliform in water samples.