What bacteria is considered the greatest trouble in potable water treatment?

Fecal coliform bacteria are viewed as a primary concern in potable water treatment because their presence indicates potential contamination with fecal matter, which can harbor a variety of pathogens harmful to human health. These bacteria are commonly used as indicators of water quality; their detection serves as a warning that other harmful microorganisms may also be present in the water. The presence of fecal coliforms suggests that the water may contain viruses, parasites, and bacteria that can cause serious illnesses.

Controlling fecal coliforms in drinking water is a crucial aspect of water treatment processes. Water treatment methods such as coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection aim to effectively reduce the levels of these bacteria to ensure that the water is safe for consumption.

While other bacteria like Staphylococcus, Salmonella, and Legionella can also pose health risks, fecal coliforms are specifically targeted because they are a reliable indicator of microbial contamination from fecal sources. This makes them a critical focus for water treatment facilities to protect public health.