Chapter 4  Overview of Bacteria and Water Pollution  Bacterial Contamination  Bacteria in water are the source of some of the most devastating epidemic diseases. The effects of pollution are magnified as it moves through the food chain (figure 16.8) 90% of bacteria survive for only 2 days in natural waters as the remaining 10% decline much more slowly.   Coliform Bacteria   Non-pathogenic coliforms can be used as an indicator of potential contamination in water. Untreated domestic wastewater has about 3 million coliform per 100ml  whereas the standard for potable water is less than or equal to 1/100ml  of total coliform and 0 fecal coliform for treated water. There are standards for acceptable coliform levels in waters used for body contact or recreation.

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