The number of coliform bacteria provides an estimate about which of the following?

Correct option is C

1. Coliform bacteria are used as indicator organisms to assess the cleanliness of water.

2. Their presence suggests that the water may contain harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

3. The E. coli strain is a subgroup of coliform bacteria, and its presence in water indicates recent fecal contamination.

4. The number of coliform bacteria is counted using standard microbiological tests in water quality monitoring.

5. High levels of coliform bacteria in river water may result from sewage discharge or runoff from agricultural land.

6. Regular monitoring of coliform bacteria levels helps in managing water safety for consumption and recreation.

• E. coli infection in blood : The number of coliform bacteria does not provide an estimate of E. coli infection in blood, as it is more about environmental contamination.

• Presence of E. coli in bowel : Coliform bacteria in water indicate the presence of fecal matter but do not directly correlate with E. coli infection in the bowel.

• Microbial contamination in packaged food : Coliform bacteria are typically tested in water, not in packaged food, although other microbiological tests are used to assess food safety.