Microbiological water analysis is a method of analyzing water to estimate the numbers of bacteria present and to allow for the recovery of microorganisms in order to identify them.
The hands-on on training includes plate count method. The plate count method relies on bacteria growing a colony on a nutrient medium, so that the colony becomes visible to the naked eye, and the number of colonies on a plate can be counted.The hands-on on training includes plate count method. The plate count method relies on bacteria growing a colony on a nutrient medium, so that the colony becomes visible to the naked eye, and the number of colonies on a plate can be counted.
Our laboratory uses a method, whereby sample volumes of 100 mL (or greater) are vacuum filtered through purpose-made membrane filters, and these filters are themselves laid on nutrient medium within sealed plates.
A nonselective medium is used to obtain a total enumeration of the sample (called a heterotrophic plate count). When it is desirable to obtain a specific bacterial species, a selective medium can be used.A nonselective medium is used to obtain a total enumeration of the sample (called a heterotrophic plate count). When it is desirable to obtain a specific bacterial species, a selective medium can be used.
Advanced Training modules on special sessions includes an examination of indicator microorganisms. Indicator organisms are bacteria such as nonspecific coliforms, E. coli and P. aeruginosa that are very commonly found in the human or animal gut and which, if detected, may suggest the presence of sewage. Such organisms are detected using specialist agars or test kits.