Microbiological and physicochemical quality of some water points in the Nkolafamba Subdivision (Center Region, Cameroon)

Abstract

A study was carried out with the objective of evaluating the microbiological and physicochemical quality of surface water in the  Nkolafamba subdivision, Center Region of Cameroon. Five sampling points were selected based on several criteria. The bacteria isolated were Mesophilic Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacteria (BHAM), bacteria that were witnesses to faecal contamination and Pseudomonas. Some abiotic parameters were measured using the usual techniques. The results show that some physicochemical parameters such as temperature was almost constant around 25 °C during the study period. There is also a pH which tended towards neutrality pH de (7,04 ± 1,03 U.C). However, it was noted that the stations are quite oxygenated (63,96%). Bacteriological analyzes revealed that an average value of 5.17 units (logUFC / 100mL) was recorded for BHAM. Overall, the abundances of total coliforms averaged 4.18 units (logUFC / 100mL). The waters of Nkolafamba also harbor a pathogenic microflora, with bacteria such as P. aeruginosa P. pasteurella, the abundance of which can sometimes reach 5,462 units (log CFU / 100mL). These germs can be the cause of eye infections or septicemia on users of these waters. These waters have a high bacterial load, and the microbiological pollution observed is predominantly animal. Some abiotic parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, Suspended Solid (SS), nitrates and turbidity have influenced the distribution of these germs. The degradation of the quality of these waters is favoured by their proximity to sources of pollution, the runoff of contaminated water in the stations. These waters, without any treatment, are not recommended for human consumption according to the standards of the World Health Organization.

Keywords: Abiotic variables, faecal coliforms, faecal streptococci, pathogenic bacteria, rivers.