Bacterial species in biofilm cultivated from the end of the Seoul water distribution system.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate changes in the bacterial population and the safety of the biofilm at the end of the drinking water distribution system in Seoul (Korea), selective media and bacterial community analyses were applied to a semi-pilot galvanized iron pipe (GIP) model.


RESULTS
No total coliforms or faecal streptococci were detected on m-Endo or m-Enterococcus agar. No Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. were detected on bismuth sulphite agar or Hektoen enteric agar, respectively. The latter two media detected coliforms, where m-Endo was negative. Biofilm formation started within 1 week (ca 104 CFU cm(-2)) and exceeded 105 CFU cm(-2) within 6 weeks. Although the fatty acid methyl ester analysis revealed dynamic changes in bacterial composition, Micrococcus, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas spp. were persistent members of the biofilm community. Micrococcus spp. was detected most frequently and in high numbers.


CONCLUSIONS
Coliforms and Enterococcus species can be recovered from biofilms in water distribution systems.


CONCLUSIONS
This study illustrates the role of biofilms in the chronic deterioration of the water-distribution system in Seoul (Korea).
Lee
D-G
DG
Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Engineering, Silla University, Pusan, Republic of Korea.
Kim
S-J
SJ
D001431:Bacteriological Techniques / Q000379:methods; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development*; D015169:Colony Count, Microbial; D003470:Culture Media; D004755:Enterobacteriaceae / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000254:growth & development; D006094:Gram-Positive Bacteria / Q000254:growth & development; D006801:Humans; D008961:Models, Structural; D014871:Water Microbiology; D014881:Water Supply
D003470:Culture Media