What does a bacteriological analysis in well water test for?

A bacteriological analysis in well water primarily tests for coliform bacteria, which are indicators of the presence of potentially harmful pathogens and contamination from fecal matter. The presence of coliform bacteria suggests that there may be a pathway for contaminants to enter the water supply, which can pose health risks to humans. By assessing the levels and types of coliform bacteria, this analysis helps determine the safety of the water for drinking and other uses.

Understanding the significance of this testing is crucial in rural areas where well water is a common source of drinking water. Regular testing for coliform bacteria can help ensure that the water remains safe and that any contamination can be promptly addressed.

In contrast, other analyses like testing for chemical composition, heavy metals, or mineral content focus on different aspects of water quality and are not specifically aimed at detecting biological contaminants.