What is Fecal Coliform?

Fecal coliform refers specifically to a group of bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. These bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), are commonly used as indicators of water quality and potential contamination. Their presence in water suggests that fecal matter may be present, which can indicate a higher risk of disease-causing pathogens. In environmental monitoring, fecal coliform bacteria are important because they help assess the safety of water for human recreation and drinking, guiding public health decisions.

In contrast, the other answer choices describe different entities. The presence of algae in water and forms of dissolved oxygen relate to aquatic ecosystems but do not pertain to fecal coliform specifically. Additionally, chemical pollutants refer to man-made substances that can contaminate the environment but are also distinct from biological indicators like fecal coliform. Understanding fecal coliform is crucial in environmental science, especially regarding assessing water safety and public health impacts.