Water quality assessment and characterization of pathogenic Escherichia coli in the Bangkahulu River, Bengkulu, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23917/bioeksperimen.v12i2.18135Keywords:
Bangkahulu Rivers, Escherichia coli, Hemolytic Activity, Pollution Index, Water QualityAbstract
The Bangkahulu River is one of the main rivers that is very important in Bengkulu Province, which is currently facing significant human-induced pressures. This study aims to evaluate the water quality of the Bangkahulu River, as well as to isolate, characterize, and profile the hemolytic Escherichia coli isolated from the upstream to downstream areas. Water samples were taken from five stations using a purposive sampling method. Physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters were analyzed according to the Indonesian national standards (SNI), while E. coli was isolated and identified through morphological characterization, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. Hemolytic activity of the isolates was tested on blood agar. The results showed that Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) exceeded the Class I water quality standards as regulated by Government Regulation Number 22 of 2021. The Pollution Index values range from 2.15 to 6.32, indicating a light to moderate level of contamination. Out of 35 identified E. coli isolates, 18 showed ß-hemolytic activity, 12 showed γ-hemolytic activity, and 2 had hemolytic activity. The prevalence of ß-hemolytic isolates suggests the presence of potentially active phenotypic strains in the aquatic environment. The dominance of β-hemolytic isolates points to strains with phenotypic traits related to potential virulence, although hemolytic activity alone is not enough to determine pathogenicity. This finding provides basic information about the physical and chemical pollution levels of the Bangkahulu River and serves as a foundation for further knowledge and research on the importance of continuously monitoring water quality and implementing effective pollution control strategies to reduce potential public health risks from microbial contamination and physical and chemical pollution, ensuring the sustainable use of river water resources.
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