Studies on faecal streptococci in the river Tigris

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Water quality assessment
• Bacteriology

Background:

• Faecal streptococci are indicators of fecal contamination in water bodies.
• The Tigris River is a vital water source for Mosul City.
• Understanding microbial contamination is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and types of faecal streptococci in the Tigris River at Mosul City.
• To identify specific species and varieties of faecal streptococci.
• To assess the potential sources of fecal contamination.

Main Methods:

• Collection of 600 water samples from the Tigris River.
• Microbiological analysis to detect and identify faecal streptococci.
• Species and variety identification using standard bacteriological techniques.

Main Results:

• Faecal streptococci were detected in the water samples.
• Human faecal streptococci were predominant over animal sources.
• Eight species and varieties were identified, including Streptococcus faecalis (43.32%) and atypical Streptococcus faecalis (13.18%).

Conclusions:

• The study confirms fecal contamination in the Tigris River at Mosul City.
• Human sources are the primary contributors to the detected streptococci.
• The findings highlight the need for monitoring and managing water quality.