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Diversity of free-living amoebae in a dual distribution (potable and recycled) water system
Citation:
Thomas, J., M. Storey, R. Stuetz, S. Kjelleberg, AND N. ASHBOLT. Diversity of free-living amoebae in a dual distribution (potable and recycled) water system. Presented at IWA Health-Related Water Microbiology Biannual Conference, Naxos, GREECE, June 01 - 04, 2009.
Impact/Purpose:
To be presented at the IWA Health-Related Water Microbiology Biannual Conference
Description:
Free-living amoebae are known to facilitate the growth of water associated pathogens. This study, for the first time, explored the diversity of free-living amoebae in a dual distribution (potable and recycled) water system in Rouse Hill NSW, Australia. Water and biofilm samples were taken from the tertiary recycled water treatment plant and from within the two distribution systems (using a Modified Robbins Device). Amoebae were not detected entering the distribution systems from the tertiary recycled water treatment plant over a 6 week sampling period. However, amoebae were isolated within the recycled water distribution system (0.1 amoebae/ml). Furthermore, amoebae were isolated from within the potable water distribution system (0.2 amoebae/ml). Chlorine concentrations appear to explain the different amoebae numbers. More research is required to determine the relationship between these free-living amoebae and water associated pathogens within this water distribution system.