Publication Details

Spatio-temporal factors influencing coliform and Escherichia coli contamination in gross pollutant trap and wetland inlet, Putrajaya, Malaysia

This study investigated the spatial and temporal pattern of total coliform (TC) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) with the associated influencing environmental factors at GPT and lake inlets. Understanding these patterns is necessary in order to support management action in controlling pollution from urban stormwater systems. Water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH and turbidity were measured in-situ over a week at four gross pollutant traps (GPT) and four inlets in Upper Bisa Wetland, Putrajaya. Water samples were collected using a Van Dorn sampler and analysed for TC, E. coli, total phosphorus and chemical oxygen demand. The parameters were analysed against spatial and temporal factors. The abundance of TC and E. coli varied between sites and storm water systems with the mean highest values recorded of 162,2857.1 CFU mL−1 and 64,364.3 CFU mL−1 respectively—high density residential landuse. Temporal variations had an impact on the abundance of TC and E. coli; E. coli abundance varied daily. The abundance of E. coli was higher during dry periods while the abundance of TC was higher during the wet periods. However, no clear variation of the selected faecal indicator bacteria between morning and evening. Total coliform and E. coli were negatively correlated (p