Bacteriological quality assessment of a subtropical temple pond of Birpur, Jammu (J&K, India)

Abstract

Datte-Da-Talab, a subtropical temple pond of Jammu region is situated near Birpur at 32 o 39'50 N and 74 o 57'10 E just 17 kms from Jammu city. This pond is extensively used by number of pilgrims for drinking, bathing and various religious activities. The study was carried to analyse water for physico-chemical status for a period of one year (May, 2011 to April, 2012) and along with Bacteriological analysis. A total of sixty seven isolates were obtained by using streak plate method and further studied by Gram's staining technique. Among the isolated bacteria 18 were further studied for biochemical analysis and the result revealed the presence of Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp., Shigella sp., Escherichia sp., Enterobacter sp., Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. Comparison of bacterial count results, showed that the sediments are more productive source of micro-organisms and contains higher quantity of bacteria than pond water. A good number of bacterial count and the presence of Escherichia, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas indicate significant level of microbial pollution of the pond. During the study period it was found that average value of physical and chemical parameters of pond water and that of sediments support the bacterial growth and flourishment. So, the present research work provided a baseline data to generate better restoration and conservation programme as