coliform bacteria

/ ˈkɒlɪfɔːm /

plural noun

1. a large group of bacteria inhabiting the intestinal tract of humans and animals that may cause disease and whose presence in water is an indicator of faecal pollution

Example Sentences

Federal prosecutors said that water testing and monitoring around the spill found “exceedances of applicable water quality standards for total coliform bacteria, E. coli, and Enterococcus,” the latter being another type of bacteria that can contaminate waterways.

From Los Angeles Times

As of Thursday, the board has lifted the advisory in the city’s West Bank, while the East Bank’s was extended, with two out of 90 water samples testing positive for coliform bacteria.

From Salon

In 2009, high levels of fecal coliform, bacteria like E. coli associated with human and animal waste, led the state to halt shellfish harvests on the upper third of the river.

From Salon

Due to runoff from agricultural fields and homes, “the fecal coliform bacteria count goes up,” Finger said.

From Los Angeles Times

Raw or undercooked meat should be avoided to reduce your risk of potential contamination with coliform bacteria, toxoplasmosis, and salmonella.

From Salon