Coliform bacteria

"A group of nonpathogenic organ- isms (Colon bacilli) usually found in the digestive tract of all warm-blooded animals and humans. The presence of coliform bacteria in water is an indicator of possible pollution by fecal material and the presence of patho- genic bacteria that can cause diseases such as intestinal infections, dysentery, hepatitis, typhoid fever and chol- era. Generally reported as colonies or colony forming units (cfu) per 100 milliliters (ml) of sample. (see fecal coliform)." (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, n.y.)