coliform
37
7.4
- noun
- /ˈkoʊləˌfɔrm/
- Specialized
- The environmental agency found high levels of coliform bacteria in the river, indicating potential contamination.
- fecal coliform
- coliform bacteria
- total coliform
Examples
-
Samples of this effluent revealed fecal coliform and fecal streptococci bacteria in numbers indicative of domestic wastewater.
Academic text (1995) -
In the meantime, CDPHE conducted a quick screening test for total coliform bacteria.
Academic text (2008) -
Routine monitoring, conducted just two weeks earlier, on March 5, had not found coliform bacteria in the water.
Academic text (2008) -
During the second week of August, the fecal coliform count got so high that all the beaches closed.
Fiction book (2001) -
While most coliform bacteria are not harmful, they serve as indicators of possible harmful bacteria.
Academic text (2008) -
Most prohibited areas are closed to shellfishing due to unacceptable quantities of fecal coliform bacteria in the water.
Academic text (1996) -
Fecal coliform was recommended rather than total coliform because of its higher correlation to fecal contamination.
Academic text (1994) -
Second, drinking water samples tested positive for fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli.
Academic text (1995) -
Subsequent sampling revealed contamination with total and fecal coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli.
Academic text (1995) -
When testing the beach water, the scientists discovered coliform bacteria, which led to the closure of swimming areas.
Surface Forms
Morphology
coliform = coli (semi-transparent) = coli + form
The morphological structure 'coli' + '-form' is regular, but 'coli' is technical and may not be known to average learners.
Etymology
Coliform comes from coli, from the word 'colon' meaning the large intestine, and -form which means 'shape' or 'like'. A coliform is a bacterium 'like those from the colon', so finding one is a sign that water or food may be contaminated.