Escherichia coli Pollution in Coastal Lagoon and Dam Reservoir: Repercussions on Public Health and Aquaculture

Elevated levels of Escherichia coli, indicating faecal pollution, were detected in Merchang Lagoon and Raban Lake, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Lenggong Valley. The study found significant variations in total coliform counts across sampling sites, with the highest levels (1600 CFU/100 mL) observed in Raban Lake. All sites tested positive for E. coli, suggesting recent faecal contamination and potential risks from more harmful enteropathogens. The research highlights the impact of water stagnation and human activities on microbial water quality, posing threats to public health and aquaculture. Long-term monitoring is recommended to mitigate risks associated with waterborne pathogens in recreational and commercial activities.

Najiah, M., Chowdhury, A. J. K., Nadirah, M., Lee, K. L., Saari, N. A., Aznan, A. S., Wan Ibrahim, W. N., Manaf Tajuddin, M. A., Mat Piah, R., & Muzalina Mustafa, E. (2023). Escherichia coli POLLUTION IN COASTAL LAGOON AND DAM RESERVOIR: REPERCUSSIONS ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND AQUACULTURE. Water Conservation & Management, 7(1), 55–59. https://doi.org/10.26480/wcm.01.2023.55.59