coliform bacteria

British  

/ 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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

coliform bacteria

However, testing showed that among the 11 water sources examined, bottled water was the most likely to contain coliform bacteria, which signal fecal contamination.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 23, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 21, 2023

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

From Salon ● Aug. 25, 2021

Scientists from Virginia Tech have told her that the water tests positive for E. coli and coliform bacteria, but Maynard said she would rather boil it than drink her tap water.

From Washington Post ● Apr. 16, 2019

There also was a concern at the county health department about well tests in those areas that were positive for coliform bacteria, which can be an indicator that dangerous E. coli bacteria could be present.

From Washington Times ● May 15, 2017