Where Did Coliform Bacteria Originate?

A fecal coliform (British: faecal coliform) is a facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped, gram-negative, non-sporulating bacterium. Coliform bacteria generally originate in the intestines of warm-blooded animals.

Where do coliform bacteria come from?

Coliforms are bacteria that are always present in the digestive tracts of animals, including humans, and are found in their wastes. They are also found in plant and soil material.

What is the most common source of coliform bacteria?

Most are abundant in soils, surface water and vegetation. Some coliform bacteria originate from human or animal fecal sources. Most coliform bacteria are harmless to humans, but some can cause mild illnesses and a few can lead to serious waterborne diseases.