Question

Escherichia coli is used as an indicator organism to determine pollution of water with:

• A. Heavy metals
• B. Faecal matter
• C. Industrial effluents
• D. Pollen of aquatic plants

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine the correct answer to the question "Escherichia coli is used as an indicator organism to determine pollution of water with:", let's break down each option and analyze them based on the characteristics of Escherichia coli (E. coli).

1. Understanding the Role of E. coli:

   E. coli is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Its presence in water is considered a bioindicator due to its association with fecal contamination.

2. Analysis of Options:
   • Heavy metals: Heavy metals in water are typically detected using chemical or instrumental methods rather than biological indicators such as E. coli.
   • Faecal matter: E. coli is used as an indicator organism specifically for detecting fecal contamination in water sources. The presence of E. coli suggests that the water may also contain other pathogens commonly found in fecal material, making it unsafe for consumption.
   • Industrial effluents: While industrial effluent can contaminate water, E. coli is not specifically used to detect such pollution, as it originates from biological rather than industrial sources.
   • Pollen of aquatic plants: The presence of aquatic plant pollen is not related to pathogenic contamination, and E. coli is not utilized to indicate such natural phenomena.
3. Conclusion:

   Based on this analysis, the option that correctly identifies the type of pollution indicated by E. coli presence in water is faecal matter. E. coli's role as an indicator organism signifies fecal contamination and potential health risks associated with pathogen presence.