Microbiological characteristics of waters in the major rivers in Kainji Lake National Park

Abstract

This research work determined the microbiological characteristics of the waters of rivers of Kainji Lake National Park. The implications on public health and aquatic life were also examined. The rivers include: Oli, Manyera, Poto and Nuwanzurugi. Samples were taken twice a year, that is, dry and wet seasons of each year. Standard methods were used for bacteriological examination plating. The results revealed high faecal pollution during the wet seasons. This was confirmed by the presence of the coliforms. Isolates include Pseudomonas spp. Escherichia coli, Acetobacter spp, Maroxalla spp, Bacillus spp, and Klebsiella spp. As a result water of the four rivers in the park is not potable during the wet seasons.

Key words: Faecal pollution, bacteriological examination, E. coli, Klebsiella spp, potability.