'Salmonella sp.' Harbored by Aquatic Fauna as Indices of Fecal Pollution

摘要

The presence of the bacteria Salmonella in the aquatic environment indicates fecal pollution. This study identifies salmonella as a useful and reliable index of contamination of bodies of water used for drinking, bathing, fishing, or aquatic recreational activities. Techniques for collecting water samples were developed. Eleven serotypes were found among 131 salmonella isolates when Wabash River (IND) native fish and fresh water mussels were cultured. Salmonellae were found capable of colonizing the intestinal tract of native fishes. Higher concentrations of salmonellae were found in fish intestinal tracts than were present in environmental water. Several serotypes were present in the fish which were not present in their habitat water. Increased eutrophy of the water decreased infection rates. However when bottom sediment was allowed to 'build up' increased infection rates were evident. Physiological stress increased piscine salmonella infection rates. It is concluded that Salmonella may be used as monitors of fecal pollution in the aquatic biosphere.