Coliform are indicators for?

Coliform bacteria are used as indicators of the presence of microorganisms in water. The primary reason for this is that coliforms are commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans, thus serving as a reliable indicator of potential fecal contamination in water sources. When coliforms are detected, it suggests that there may be pathogens or harmful microorganisms present that could pose health risks if ingested.

Using coliforms as an indicator is critical in assessing water quality because they are easier and less expensive to test for compared to pathogens, which may be present in much lower numbers and can be difficult to detect directly. The presence of these indicator organisms allows for the assessment of the microbial quality of water, leading to further investigations and possible remedial actions if contamination is suspected.