Microbiological and Physico-Chemical Evaluation of Borehole Water in Owerri, Imo State

Microbiological and physico-chemical evaluation of borehole water in Owerri Imo State was investigated. Samples of borehole water were collected from ten different sampling sites in Owerri Municipal. Standard microbiological methods like membrane filter methods, biochemical test, culture, wet mount and wet mount using iodine were used to determine the presence of microorganism. Standard sampling and physico-chemical analysis of the borehole water was done using the standard methods for the examination of water, the American public health association to determine different parameters of the borehole water. The result of the analysis showed that bacteria, fungi and parasites were identified. Bacteria isolated and identified were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella spp, Proteus spp, Pseudomonas spp, Bacillus spp and Klebsiella spp. Fungi identified were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus spp. Fusarium spp. and Candida spp. Parasites identified were Ascaris lumbricoides, Entamoeba histolytica, Trichuris trichura, and Taenia saginata. The result of the analysis showed that pH values were slightly acidic and ranged from 6.1 to 6.8 while total dissolved solids values were from 81 and 97 mg/l. Total alkalinity ranged between 62 and 86 mg/l. Some Physico-chemical parameters were not within permissible limits for drinking water. Treatments of borehole water, boiling and filtering of drinking water as well as improved sanitary conditions and personal hygiene are recommended. This will ensure better health for the people of Owerri Municipal.