Distribution of fecal coliform and Escherichia coli (E.coli)in the estuaries and coastal water of Kuala Terengganu and Kuala Ibai, Terengganu

Abstract

This study is conducted to evaluate the distribution of fecal bacteria counts including total coliform, fecal coliform and E. coli in the water, sediments and fishes of Kuala Terengganu, Kuala Ibai and coastal areas of Kuala Terengganu. Four sampling trips were conducted during July 2009, November 2009, December 2009 and May 2010 at 20 sampling stations. Fecal bacteria counts were estimated by using Multiple Test Tube Fermentation Analysis. Results of this study showed that during the second sampling (November 2009), 75% of the samples showed fecal bacteria counts exceeding the standard followed by 70% during first sampling, 50% during third sampling and lowest during fourth sampling with 40% of the samples exceeding the bacteria standard based on Water Quality Standards from Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE). Rainfall and tidal flow were the main factors affecting counts of fecal bacteria in ambient environment.