Effect of monsoons on fecal coliform and Escherichi coli (E.coli) distribution in water and sediments of Setiu lagoon, Terengganu

Abstract

The study on fecal coliform and E.coli distribution in waters and sediments of Setiu lagoon is aimed to evaluate the level of fecal contamination caused by sewage pollution and other aquaculture activities in that area. Three sampling trips have been conducted, during 8th September 2007, 21st October 2007 and 29th December 2007. Fourteen sampling stations were established in this study. Total coliform, fecal coliform and E. coli counts in waters and sediments were estimated by using Multiple Test Fermentation Tube of Standard Method. GAD test was done for detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in water and sediment samples. Results of this study showed that the mean of total coliform, fecal coliform and E. coli counts in waters of Setiu lagoon in September, October and December were 344.023 MPN.lOO mL-1, 204.333 MPN.100mL"1 and 11.9037 MPN.100mL"1 respectively. The mean of total coliform, fecal coliform and E. coli counts in sediments were 7.4953 MPN.g"1 , 8.2377 MPN.g"1 and 1.1553 MPN.g"1 for September, October and December respectively. Presence of coliform bacteria indicates that the waters in Setiu lagoon had been contaminated with domestic sewage pollution. Based on the standard set by DOE, the mean fecal coliform counts in September, October and December 2007 exceeded the water quality standard. Strict enforcement should therefore be taken in this area to prevent further deterioration ..