Hygienic Water Quality Research Articles

ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА ХІМІЧНОГО СКЛАДУ ВОДИ ТА ГІДРОХІМІЧНОГО РЕЖИМУ ЛІВОБЕРЕЖНИХ ПРИТОК ДНІСТРА В МЕЖАХ ТЕРНОПІЛЬСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ

The article is devoted to the study of the chemical composition of water, the hydrochemical regime and water quality of the left-bank tributaries of the Dniester within Ternopil region (Zolota Lypa, Koropets, Strypa, Seret, Nichlava and Zbruch rivers) based on water monitoring data of the State Water Agency of Ukraine (1993-2020). The chemical composition of water was studied according to: main ions and water mineralization; physical and chemical parameters (pH, O2); biogenic substances ((NН4+, NO2–, NO3–, РO43–); trace elements (Cu, Cr); specific pollutants (petroleum products, detergents). It was established that the hydrochemical type of water in most of the studied rivers is calcium bicarbonate. The water of the Nichlava River is calcium bicarbonate-sulfate. The average annual water mineralization of the studied rivers varies from 476 mg/dm3 to 699 mg/dm3. The water of most rivers is moderately fresh in terms of mineralization. The water of the Nichlava River is fresh with high mineralization. The hydrochemical regime of rivers is related to the hydrological regime. The minimum concentrations of the main ions and water mineralization are observed during the summer-autumn mezhenia, which is explained by the precipitation of a significant amount of atmospheric precipitation and the presence of floods during this period. The maximum of these indicators is observed in winter. The hydrochemical regime for biogenic substances, trace elements and specific pollutants is less pronounced. Among biogenic substances, the clearest manifestation of the hydrochemical regime was recorded for nitrates. The minimum concentrations of NO3– are observed in the summer-autumn boundary, when nitrates are consumed for the development of aquatic plants. Nitrates accumulate in the autumn period with the death of aquatic plants, and during the winter period, their maximum average content is observed. The assessment of the water quality of the studied rivers, carried out by analyzing long-term series of observations using the “Hygienic water quality standards of water bodies … (2022), showed that the content of the studied components mainly met the regulatory requirements, with the exception of iron. At the same time, the absence of copper, chromium, petroleum products and detergents in water was recorded in all studied rivers during the observation period in different years (zero values of these components were recorded in 70-90% of samples).

STRATEGI PEMASARAN DEPOT AIR MINUM ISI ULANG RAJA WATER DALAM MENINGKATKAN PENJUALAN DIGAMPONG PANTE KOTA LHOKSUKON

The focus and purpose of this research is to find out how the marketing strategy and public perception are in buying interest in selling Raja Water refill drinking water. This study uses a qualitative method. Sources of data used in this study are primary data and secondary data. Data collection is done by using observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The data analysis technique used is technical analysis which consists of three components, namely data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. From the results of the study, it can be seen that the marketing strategy is quite good and meets all the criteria consisting of customers of the Raja Water refill drinking water depot which has increased in sales in Pante Village, the determination of a business location that is suitable for marketing, the promotion section is still minimal, and limited customer relationship. Then the public perception carried out by the Raja Water refill drinking water depot is that the refill drinking water depot can provide cheaper prices without using promotional vouchers/coupons and provide clean and hygienic water quality and serve customers very well in order to improve buying interest in a consumer.

Microbial activities and physicochemical properties of pesticide treated soils and waters

This study determined the concentration of the pesticides contaminating the soil and water, and the effect of the pesticides on microbial activity and physicochemical properties. Nutrient agar was used for the enumeration of total heterotrophic bacteria by the pour plate method. Enumeration of fungi was done with Potato Dextrose Agar. Soil CO2-evolution was estimated every 5-days for 25 days. Total nitrogen was determined using macro-Kjeldhal distillation method. Available phosphorus was analyzed using Bray No. 1 method. Dehydrogenase activity in samples was assayed with 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride solution. COD was determined by the method of Ademoroti. DO was determined by Winkler’s method. Bacillus subtillis, Bacillus macerans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Psedomonas putida and A. niger were of common occurrence in all soil samples. There were significant changes (P≤0.05) in the microbial activities and available phosphorus, total nitrogen and pesticide concentration of the polluted soil and water samples. The BOD ranged from 15.837±0.187 to 20.853±0.254 mg/L. The DO, COD and BOD of the control water samples were significantly (P≤0.05) higher than the values obtained at the point of pollution. This study indicated the extent of microbial and pesticide pollution; further addition of wastes may deteriorate the existing hygienic quality of water in these locations.

Evaluation of bank filtration as a pretreatment method for the provision of hygienically safe drinking water in Norway: results from monitoring at two full-scale sites

Two case studies were carried out in central Norway in order to assess the performance of bank filtration systems in cold-climate fluvial aquifers relying on recharge from humic-rich surface waters with moderate microbial contamination. Three municipal wells and two surface-water sources at operative bank filtration systems were monitored for naturally occurring bacteriophages, fecal indicators, natural organic matter (NOM) and physico-chemical water quality parameters during a 4-month period. Aquifer passage effectively reduced the microorganism and NOM concentrations at both study sites. Bacteriophages were detected in 13 of 16 (81%) surface-water samples and in 4 of 24 (17%) well-water samples, and underwent 3 ± 0.3 log10 reduction after 50–80-m filtration and 20–30 days of subsurface passage. NOM reductions (color: 74–97%; dissolved organic carbon: 54–80%; very hydrophobic acids: 70%) were similar to those achieved by conventional water-treatment processes and no further treatment was needed. Both groundwater dilution and sediment filtration contributed to the hygienic water quality improvements, but sediment filtration appeared to be the most important process with regard to microbial and NOM reductions. A strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats analysis showed that bank filtration technology has a high potential as a pretreatment method for the provision of hygienically safe drinking water in Norway.

Do low-cost ceramic water filters improve water security in rural South Africa?

Abstract. This study examined the performance of a low-cost ceramic candle filter system (CCFS) for point of use (POU) drinking water treatment in the village of Hobeni, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. CCFSs were distributed in Hobeni and a survey was carried out among their users. The performance of 51 CCFSs was evaluated by dip slides and related to human factors. Already after two-thirds of their specified lifetime, none of the distributed CCFSs produced water without distinct contamination, and more than one-third even deteriorated in hygienic water quality. Besides the water source (springs were preferable compared to river or rain water), a high water throughput was the dominant reason for poor CCFS performance. A stepwise laboratory test documented the negative effects of repeated loading and ambient field temperatures. These findings suggest that not every CCFS type per se guarantees improved drinking water security and that the efficiency of low-cost systems should continuously be monitored. For this purpose, dip slides were found to be a cost-efficient alternative to standard laboratory tests. They consistently underestimated microbial counts but can be used by laypersons and hence by the users themselves to assess critical contamination of their filter systems.

Post-industrial river water quality-Fit for bathing again?

For the Ruhr River, bathing has been prohibited for decades. However, along with significant improvements of the hygienic water quality, there is an increasing demand of using the river for recreational purposes, in particular for bathing. In the "Safe Ruhr" interdisciplinary research project, demands, options and chances for lifting the bathing ban for the Ruhr River were investigated. As being the prominent reason for persisting recreational restrictions, microbiological water quality was in the focus of interest. Not only the faecal indicator organisms (FIOs) as required by the European Bathing Water Directive were considered, but also pathogens such as Salmonella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Legionella pneumophila, Campylobacter, Leptospira, enteroviruses and protozoan parasites. In this introductory paper, we firstly relate current recreational desires to historical experiences of river bathing. After recapitulating relevant microbial river contamination sources (predominantly sewage treatment plants, combined sewer overflows, and surface runoffs), we review existing knowledge about the relationships of FIOs and pathogens in rivers designated for recreational purposes, and then trace the evolution, rationale and validity of recreational freshwater quality criteria which are, despite obvious uncertainties, mostly relying on the FIO paradigm. In particular, the representativeness of FIOs is critically discussed. The working programme of Safe Ruhr, aiming at initiating and facilitating a process towards legalisation of Ruhr River bathing, is outlined. Sources of contamination can be technically handled which leaves the actual measures to political decisions. As contaminations are transient, only occasionally exceeding legal limits, a flexible bathing site management, warning bathers of non-safe situations, may amend technical interventions and offer innovative solutions. As a result, a situation-adapted system for lifting of the bathing ban for Ruhr River appears realistic.

Hygienic Quality of Water Used in Some Fresh and Marine Aquacultures and Their Implications on Fish

This study was carried out to compare between the hygienic quality of fish and water used in different aquaculture types. A total of 56 water samples and 150 fish samples also were collected from different aquacultures in Egypt. Water samples were tested for the presence of three heavy metals as Cadmium (Cd), Lead (pb) and copper (cu). Also, it were examined for theirPhysicochemical characteristics. Both water and fish samples were examined bacteriologically Total bacterial count(TBC), Total coliform count (TCC) and Feacal coliform count(FCC). Also, Results revealed a significant increase in NH3 of pond samples, TBC , FCC, Cd, pb and Cu of both water and fish samples in fresh aquacultures compared to marine aquaculture. While a significant increase in No3, Ca2+, Mg2+, T.ALK , TDS, EC and Cl- in water samples of marine aquaculture in comparsion with fresh aquacultures. This difference between two types of fish farms may attributed to natural chemistry of water used in each farm, which in turn influence the hygienic quality of the fish produced from each farm , where marine water affect the heavy metal accumulation on fish negatively either by competitive inhibiton through ions exchange in gills or by forming un absorbable precipitate. Also, the high salinity of marine water sets up a hypertonic environment which enhance bacterial death. Also, many types of bacteria are killed by the high concentration of NaCl in marine aquaculture.

The INCA-Pathogens model: An application to the Loimijoki River basin in Finland

Good hygienic quality of surface waters is essential for drinking water production, irrigation of crops and recreation. Predictions of how and when microbes are transported by rivers are needed to protect downstream water users. In this study we tested the new process-based INCA-Pathogens model in the agricultural Loimijoki River basin (3138km2) in Finland, and we quantified ecosystem services of water purification and water provisioning for drinking and recreation purposes under different scenarios. INCA is a catchment scale process based model to calculate pollutant transfer from terrestrial environment and point sources to the catchment outlet. A clear gradient was observed in the numbers of faecal coliforms along the River Loimijoki. The highest bacterial counts were detected in the middle part of the main stream immediately after small industries and municipal sewage treatment plants. In terms of model performance, the INCA-Pathogen model was able to produce faecal coliform counts and seasonality both in the low pollution level sampling points and in the high pollution level sampling points. The model was sensitive to the parameters defining light decay in river water and in soil compartment, as well as to the amount of faecal coliforms in the manure spread on the fields. The modeling results showed that the number of faecal coliforms repeatedly exceeded 1000 bacteria 100ml−1. Moreover, results lead to the following conclusions: 1) Climate change does not cause a major threat to hygienic water quality as higher precipitation increases runoff and causes diluting effect in the river, 2) Intensification of agriculture is not a threat as long as animal density remains relatively low and environmental legislation is followed, 3) More intensive agriculture without environmental legislation causes a threat especially in tributaries with high field percentage and animal density, and 4) Hygienic water quality in the River Loimijoki can best be improved by improving sewage treatment. We conclude that this catchment scale model is a useful tool for addressing catchment management and water treatment planning issues.

Water and health-related problems, local perception and quality of water sources in a Toba (qom) community in the Impenetrable (Chaco, Argentina)

We present a transdisciplinary study centering on aspects of environmental health of the Toba (qom) communities that relate to water and health problems of the Impenetrable Chaco region. Information was obtained through the methods and tools of participatory research, household participant observation, and ethnobotanical documentation of species related to water management and use. Vernacular terms referring to the suitability and taste of the water, as well as representations, attitudes and practices related to water collection and purification were recorded. In addition, a microbiological and physicochemical analysis of the water was performed and compared with the perceptual categories. It was observed that perceptual aspects were in tension with the hygienic quality of water. We documented phreatophyte plants, indicative of the presence of water, as well as plants that store water, act as flocculants, refresh the water or improve taste. The results of this research are discussed from an ecosystem approach and its relationship to the development of proposals for intervention.

Water and health-related problems, local perception and quality of water sources in a Toba (qom) community in the Impenetrable (Chaco, Argentina)

We present a transdisciplinary study centering on aspects of environmental health of the Toba (qom) communities that relate to water and health problems of the Impenetrable Chaco region. Information was obtained through the methods and tools of participatory research, household participant observation, and ethnobotanical documentation of species related to water management and use. Vernacular terms referring to the suitability and taste of the water, as well as representations, attitudes and practices related to water collection and purification were recorded. In addition, a microbiological and physicochemical analysis of the water was performed and compared with the perceptual categories. It was observed that perceptual aspects were in tension with the hygienic quality of water. We documented phreatophyte plants, indicative of the presence of water, as well as plants that store water, act as flocculants, refresh the water or improve taste. The results of this research are discussed from an ecosystem approach and its relationship to the development of proposals for intervention.

Impact of rainfall on the hygienic quality of blue mussels and water in urban areas in the Inner Oslofjord, Norway

The effects of precipitation on the hygienic quality of water and blue mussels collected from five different localities in the urban areas in the Inner Oslofjord were investigated, with samples analysed for Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., pathogenic Vibrio spp., Norovirus, Sapovirus, Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis. The sampling sites were located at varying distances from the outlet of combined sewer overflows (CSO)-impacted rivers/streams. In general, 1–3 log10 increases in fecal indicator bacteria and human pathogens were observed after heavy rainfalls. Blue mussels appeared to be a useful indicator of the impact of sewage at these sites, and generally a good correlation was identified between concentrations of E. coli and other human pathogens in the mussels. Provision of general advice to the public of avoiding areas near the outlets of CSO-impacted rivers after heavy rainfall may reduce the risk of gastroenteritis by bathers and others that may swallow water during recreational activities.

English

The aims of this paper were to propose a modeling system of water UV disinfection, establish the influence of UV doses on the kinetics of disinfection, study UV-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and improve the performances of this multipart process. The UV disinfection should inactivate pathogenic microorganisms and improve the hygienic quality of water. A comprehensive treatment in considering the mathematical aspect to model the UVc disinfection of water was achieved. A complete mathematical description of the inactivation kinetics is developed and showed two successive stages, a fast and a low one. Similarly, a mathematical model describing fluid flow and concentration of the microorganisms inside a UV reactor is developed. Modeling the kinetic and the UV lamp ray emission using some empirical approaches might increase the efficiency of UV disinfection and improve its performance. This study shows an improvement of the microbial inactivation rate of about 49% for the selected pathogenic resistant bacteria of P. aeruginosa (S3), and in considering perfectly mixed water flowing into the UV reactor. Key words: Disinfection, UV254, modeling, pathogenic microorganisms, performance.

Hygienic quality and physicochemical characterization of Moulay Yacoub thermal therapeutic water of Fez region (Morocco)

The hydrothermal complex of Moulay Yacoub is located in the north center of Morocco. It is well-known for its large therapeutic benefits and is the most visited thermal station by Moroccans and foreign tourists. To determine the physicochemical composition and to assess the hygienic quality of these thermal waters, the water of the source and on others three points of use was studied monthly, from June 2009 to June 2010. The results of this study showed that these waters are characterized by high temperature (53.13 °C) and high values of the sodium (>1000 mg.L−1), chlorides (17440 mg.L−1) and calcium (1058 mg.L−1). This study demonstrates also that the water of the source is free from bacterial contamination, including Legionella. However, different rates of contamination were detected in the waters at several points of use (women pool, mixed pool), which are associated to visitor activities. The physicochemical characteristics and mineral composition of these thermomineral waters explain the benefit effect associated to its use in the therapy of some pathologies. The use of thermal water from the source is not associated to any risk of bacterial contamination. However, hygiene precautions must be applied and imposed to curists, in order to improve the hygienic quality of the water in different points of use.

Disinfection of Water by UV Irradiation-Modeling and Improvement

This paper deals with the complex problem of modeling of water UVc disinfection, and it aimed to improve the performances of this multipart process. The UV disinfection should inactivate pathogenic microorganisms and improve the hygienic quality of water. A comprehensive treatment in considering the mathematical aspect to model the UVc disinfection of water was achieved. A complete mathematical description of the inactivation kinetics is developed and showed two successive stages, a fast and a low one. Similarly, a mathematical model describing fluid flow and concentration of the microorganisms inside a UV reactor is developed. Modeling the kinetic and the UV lamp ray emission using some empirical approaches might increase the efficiency of UV disinfection and improved its performance. This study showed an improvement of the microbial inactivation rate of about of 49% for the selected pathogenic resistant bacteria of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, and in considering perfectly mixed water flowing into the UV reactor. Keywords: Disinfection, UV254, modeling, pathogenic microorganisms, performance, UV reactor, UV Irradiation, illumination, UV emission, Improver Control, ATCC 15442, Chick-Watson's model, Vapour Discharges Lamp, photoreactor

Simulation tools to support bathing water quality management: Escherichia coli bacteria in a Baltic lagoon

Insufficient hygienic water quality and bathing prohibitions are still a serious problem in the Szczecin Lagoon (southern Baltic). In our study we focus on the southern lagoon coast and analyse the causes and consequences of high Escherichia coli bacteria concentrations. For this purpose we carry out laboratory experiments on the behaviour of E.coli in the lagoon, a literature review and apply a three-dimensional flow model together with a Lagrangian particle tracking routine. Three major E.coli sources, the Uecker river, the wetlands with cattle as well as sea gulls with bathing and fisheries were allocated, quantified and compiled into an emission scenario. This serves as input for transport simulations under different wind conditions and for the development of a spatial contamination map. Reasons for high E.coli concentrations in the lagoon are a permanent supply from different sources and the special environmental situation in the lagoon. The availability of organic matter, either in form of reed stems or as muddy sediments, has a positive effect on bacteria survival. Very important, too, are the prevailing wind and flow conditions, which cause water and organism transport in narrow ribbons along the coastline and promote near-shore accumulations. Even in our shallow lagoon, the application of a 3D-model is beneficial. Heavy rains are, very likely, responsible for the outstanding high total-coliform concentrations of 11,000 cfu/100 ml on August 21, 2006. The model system proved to be a valuable tool for spatial analysis and is suitable to support the development of bathing water profiles according to the EU Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC).

The impact of cyanobacteria on growth and death of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria

Climate change may cause increased microbial growth in water sources and more knowledge is required on how this may affect the hygienic water quality, i.e., whether increased occurrence of cyanobacteria and algae may stimulate the growth rate of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria. Laboratory experiments were performed to investigate if the presence of the cyanobacteria Anabanea lemmermannii and Microcystis aeruginosa affected the survival and growth rate of the opportunistic pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the faecal indicators Escherichia coli and coliforms. Cyanobacteria were cultured in bottles containing the nutrient-poor medium 02. Sewage, A. hydrophila or P. aeruginosa was added to cyanobacterial cultures and the bacterial growth and survival was followed. E. coli and coliforms from sewage died within few days and the decay rate was not affected by the presence of cyanobacteria. The presence of Anabaena stimulated the growth rate of P. aeruginosa, but had no effect on the growth rate of A. hydrophila. Microcystis had no effect on the growth rate of P. aeruginosa and an inhibiting effect on the growth rate of A. hydrophila.

A novel real-time polymerase chain reaction-based method for the detection and quantification of lactose-fermenting Enterobacteriaceae in the dairy and other food industries

The presence of lactose-fermenting Enterobacteriaceae and coliforms is routinely assessed to determine the hygienic quality of water and foods, particularly dairy products. This paper reports the use of lacZ-specific primers in an SYBR green I-based real-time PCR method for the easy and rapid detection of coliforms in dairy products. A large number of bacterial species were assayed to establish the specificity of the method. The sensitivity of the method was assessed using artificially contaminated cheeses. The limit of detection was 1 coliform cell in cheese samples enriched for 8h in a culture medium. The entire procedure, including sample processing, enrichment, DNA extraction, and real-time PCR amplification, can be completed within 10 to 12h, making it a single-day assay.

A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF PATHOLOGIC FINDINGS IN THE AMAZON AND ORINOCO RIVER DOLPHIN (INIA GEOFFRENSIS) IN CAPTIVITY

River dolphins are especially susceptible to negative human impacts. For their conservation, attempts of relocation or procreation ex situ may become important in the future to avoid their extinction. Additional knowledge and medical experiences of river dolphin management in captivity may aid such conservation efforts. The medical records and necropsy and histopathology reports on 123 captive Amazon River dolphins (Inia geoffrensis) were re-viewed. Of these 123 animals, 105 were necropsied and 70 necropsies were supported with histopathology. Eighteen animals were not necropsied. Among wild-born animals, mortality was highest in the first 2 mo immediately postcapture and transport, accounting for 32 of 123 deaths. Pneumonia and skin lesions (cutaneous and subcutaneous ulcerations and abscesses) were the most common findings, found in 44 of 105 (42%) and 38 of 105 (36%) of gross diagnoses, respectively. At least 10 of 44 cases of pneumonia diagnosed grossly included a verminous component. Cachexia, from a variety of causes, was a major gross finding in 21 animals. Fifteen animals had histologic evidence of significant renal pathology, and this was the primary cause of death in 13 cases. Hepatic pathology was found in 18 cases, and bacterial sepsis was confirmed via histology in 16 cases. Based on these findings, it may be concluded that keys to successful maintenance of this species include 1) prophylactic anthelminthic and antibiotic therapy immediately post-capture; 2) maintenance of animals in larger enclosures than in past attempts, in compatible groups, and in facilities capable of separating aggressive animals; 3) maintenance in microbiologically hygienic water quality at all times; and 4) a proactive program of preventive medicine during the immediate postcapture, quarantine, and maintenance period of captivity.

Monitoring coastal marine waters for spore-forming bacteria of faecal and soil origin to determine point from non-point source pollution

The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have established recreational water quality standards limiting the concentrations of faecal indicator bacteria (faecal coliform, E. coli, enterococci) to ensure that these waters are safe for swimming. In the application of these hygienic water quality standards, it is assumed that there are no significant environmental sources of these faecal indicator bacteria which are unrelated to direct faecal contamination. However, we previously reported that these faecal indicator bacteria are able to grow in the soil environment of humid tropical island environments such as Hawaii and Guam and are transported at high concentrations into streams and storm drains by rain. Thus, streams and storm drains in Hawaii contain consistently high concentrations of faecal indicator bacteria which routinely exceed the EPA and WHO recreational water quality standards. Since, streams and storm drains eventually flow out to coastal marine waters, we hypothesize that all the coastal beaches which receive run-off from streams and storm drains will contain elevated concentrations of faecal indicator bacteria. To test this hypothesis, we monitored the coastal waters at four beaches known to receive water from stream or storm drains for salinity, turbidity, and used the two faecal indicator bacteria (E. coli, enterococci) to establish recreational water quality standards. To determine if these coastal waters are contaminated with non-point source pollution (streams) or with point source pollution (sewage effluent), these same water samples were also assayed for spore-forming bacteria of faecal origin (Cl. perfringens) and of soil origin (Bacillus species). Using this monitoring strategy it was possible to determine when coastal marine waters were contaminated with non-point source pollution and when coastal waters were contaminated with point source pollution. The results of this study are most likely applicable to all countries in the warm and humid region of the world.

Prevalence and diversity of Aeromonas and Vibrio spp. in coastal waters of Southern Italy

A survey was undertaken to examine sea water and sediment for the presence of Vibrio and Aeromonas spp. along approximately 900 km of coast in Southern Italy during early and late summer. A quantitative analysis was also done to evaluate the water fecal contamination at the stations examined. The results indicate that all the investigated areas were submitted to a wide spatial fluctuation of fecal contamination and that Vibrio and Aeromonas spp. were present in both high and low fecal-contaminated stations. Sixty two percent of the investigated samples were positive for Aeromonas spp., while 42% of samples were positive for Vibrio spp. It was interesting to note that 38% of the positive stations for both Aeromonas and Vibrio spp. showed a fecal coliform contamination of water at <10 2 cells 100 ml −1. Thus, these findings support the hypothesis that the bacterial indicators (such as fecal coliforms) do not always satisfactorily reflect the hygienic quality of water. The presence of Vibrionaceae on copepods was also investigated. Copepods were sampled at a station located inside the harbour of the city of Naples and were found contaminated by V. cholerae non-O1, V. alginolyticus, V. fluvialis and A. caviae. Furthermore, the antibiotic resistance patterns of isolated bacteria showed the presence of a number of resistant strains among the isolates. In order to discriminate the isolates on the basis of their biochemical profiles and/or antibiotic resistance patterns, cluster analysis was carried out which showed that no unique assay could fully discern these isolates. However, the best discrimination resulted from complete pattern profile based on both biochemical profiles and antibiotic resistance patterns.