I am a WASH manager in Pakistan and I would like to know how to properly conduct an Escherichia coli test with the DelAgua kit (Petri dish with an incubator) so we can check for E. coli in our water?
Please share the complete methodology for the E. coli test.
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You need 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-glucuronide Escherichia coli broth medium (Mug Agar), This can help you to achieve the desired result within 18 hrs, at 37 degrees celsius incubator.
You will achieve the total coliform for which the blue dark E coli appear in the same place, where by you can easily do your count.
I have not used that test kit, either. One consideration when testing for E coli vs fecal coliforms (especially with some media) is the incubation temperature. Too high and you may inhibit E coli growth.
For on-site E.coli testing have a look at the Tecta-B16 automated, rapid detection system (US EPA approved for drinking water) at www.tecta-pds.com or contact me at patrick.wolfe@tecta-pds.com. I've attached the datasheet here.
Pb Agril University Ludhiana Punjab (India), HOD Microbiology Dr Sahota, mail ID hodmb@pau.edu have some simple patented techniques for all microbial tests. You may seek her help. May give my name as having given the reference. Best of luck. Deepinder