Total Heterotrophic Bacteria Count Research Articles

Physical-chemical and microbiological characterization of water destined to hemodialysis

This research evaluated the physical-chemical and microbiological parameters of water and dialysate in four distinct hemodialysis units located in the southeast region of Brazil. The physical-chemical parameters evaluated were pH, electric conductivity, turbidity, alkalinity, free chlorine, nitrate, fluoride, chloride, sulfate, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium ion concentrations. Microcystin was also quantified. The microbiological parameters evaluated were the detection of total coliform, total heterotrophic bacteria count (THB), and the isolation and identification of microorganisms in pre-reverse osmosis treatment and post-reverse osmosis treatment water samples and dialysate. The nitrate, fluoride and THB levels found in the water samples may present risk to the patient under hemodialysis treatment. Microcystin was detected in one of the potable water samples. Microorganisms were identified throughout the hemodialysis of the entire water treatment system, with Ralstonia sp. being the most frequent. The presence of emergent pathogenic bacteria highlighted in this study highlights the necessity of microbiological monitoring of water destined for hemodialysis. Keywords: dialysate, hemodialysis, water treatment.

OCCURRENCE OF VIRULENCE GENES OF Staphylococcus aureus AND Escherichia coli IN VENDED FOODS IN SELECTED MOTOR-PARKS IN OBIO/AKPOR, RIVERS STATE

The study aimed at evaluating the microbiological safety of vended foods in selected motor parks in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Forty-eight samples obtained from four motor parks (Choba, Rumuokoro, Eliozu and Oil-mill Park) were analyzed using standard microbiological methods for total heterotrophic bacteria count, virulent and antibiotic resistant profiles of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 4.60 to 8.39 log10CFU/g. A total of 10 (20.83%) samples were positive for S. aureus while 14 (29.17%) were positive for E. coli. Total staphylococcal and Escherichia coli counts ranged from 4.89 to 7.01 and 2.70 to 5.31 log10cfu/g, respectively. Both bacteria were 100% resistant to augmentin. The confirmed E. coli showed varying resistant to cefixime (50%), ceftazidime (42.86%), cefuroxim (14.29%) and ofloxacin (7.14%); while S. aureus also showed varying resistant to erythromycin (10.00%), ceftriaxone (90.00%), cloxacillin (100.00%) and gentamycin (0.00%) The confirmed E. coli produced the expected bands for the E. coli attaching and effusing (eaeA), aggregative adherence fimbriae (aggR) and antimicrobial sensitivity testing (astA) virulence genes while S. aureus did not produce the expected bands with staphylococcal enterotoxin A (sea) and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (seb) genes. The detection of virulence gene bearing E. coli and multiple antibiotic resistant E. coli and S. aureus portends danger for commuters who patronizes these foods, hence the need for urgent public health interventions.

Physicochemical and bacteriological assessment of the polyethene packaged sachet water (popularly called “pure water”) as a major source of drinking water in Sagamu, Ogun State, Southwest, Nigeria

This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics of polyethylene-packaged sachet water, commonly known as "pure water," produced and distributed in the Sagamu local government area of Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria. The research involved analyzing sachet water samples from various producers, sources, and distributors to assess their quality. Samples were collected randomly from six different locations/towns within Sagamu Local Government and subjected to physicochemical and bacteriological analysis. The findings were compared with the permissible limits established by reputable organizations such as WHO, EPA, Canada, and NIS. The results indicated that most parameters fell within the acceptable range set by WHO, EPA, Canada, and NIS. However, the pH levels of the sachet water samples (ranging from 4.73 to 6.10) were found to be acidic, deviating from the expected range of 6.5 to 10.5. Additionally, while the Total Heterotrophic Bacteria count and Enteric Bacteria count were slightly lower than the permissible limits, with Total Enteric Bacteria ranging from 300 to 480 cfu/100ml (permissible limit <500cfu/100ml) and Enteric Bacteria ranging from 280 to 380 cfu/100ml. Recommendations derived from the study include advocating for water-producing industries to establish their raw water sources in contamination-free zones, encouraging the involvement of well-equipped private and government hospitals in monitoring and reporting on the water quality of packaging industries, promoting the provision of safe piped water by credible individuals within communities, and emphasizing the role of regulatory bodies like SON and NAFDAC in continuously assessing the production and packaging standards of drinking water across communities.

Occurrence of coliforms and biofilm-forming bacteria in raw, treated, and distributed water from two waterwork systems in Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria.

This study assessed the bacteriological quality of raw, treated, and distributed water from Ede-Erinle and Opa reservoirs in Osun State, Nigeria. This was to determine the potability of water from these waterwork stations. Eighteen sampling points were established across the two reservoir networks for this study. Samples were collected bi-monthly for two annual cycles. Serial dilution and pour plate methods were employed for the enumeration of bacterial load. Total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) and total coliform bacteria count (TCBC) were enumerated on nutrient and MacConkey agar at 37 °C, respectively. Bacterial isolates were characterized using biochemical identification methods with reference to Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology. Bacterial isolates and biofilm formation were further identified molecularly through the PCR method using specific universal primers. Mean values of THBC and TCBC in distributed water from Ede-Erinle (9.61 × 104 ± 1.50 × 104 CFU/mL; 69.56 ± 26.81 CFU/mL) and Opa waterworks (9.58 × 104 ± 2.55 × 104 CFU/mL; 142.94 ± 44.41 CFU/mL) exceeded permissible limits for drinking water. Paenibacillus lautus, Bacillus pseudomycoides, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Pseudomonas stutzeri showed biofilm-forming capacity. The study concluded that the presence of coliforms and biofilm-forming bacteria in distributed water implies that the water is unfit for consumption without further treatment.

Environmental surveillances of River Ogio in Edo State, Nigeria

AbstractThe study assessed the quality of water obtained from River Ogio in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Using standard procedures, the water samples obtained from three points of the river were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, Total heterotrophic bacteria count and Total coliform count. With exception of upstream samples, the temperature of midstream and downstream samples was lower than the range specified by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Cadmium and Arsenic levels, Total heterotrophic bacteria count and Total coliform count were above the WHO recommended limits. A total of four genera of bacteria were isolated from the water samples. Correlational analysis revealed no significant (p > 0.05) relationship between the physicochemical parameters and bacteriological properties of water obtained from River Ogio. The water obtained from River Ogio is considered unsafe for domestic consumption due to its high heavy metal content and bacteria load.

Enhanced Phytoremediation and Physicochemical Parameters of Crude Oil Polluted Soil Using Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus substilis

There have been worry over the Niger Delta's environmental contamination. Bacteria and other microorganisms have shown to be very helpful in the breakdown of hydrocarbons generated from petroleum. The goal of this research is to use elbow bufallow grass and sedge plants for phytoremediation of soil affected by crude oil. Standard microbiological techniques were applied to the contaminated soil once it was gathered. Using a hand auger, contaminated soil samples were taken twice a month for three months from two separate locations in Rivers State at two distinct depths: 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm. The following physicochemical parameters of samples were analysed using Standard Laboratory Procedures: pH, Temperature, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium available in the polluted soil and the total hydrocarbon content (THC). Two plant species common in the Ogoni region of Rivers state, i.e. Sedge plant (Schoenoplectus), Elbow buffalo grass (Panicum subalbidum) were used for phytoremediation monitoring. A combination of treatment consisting of the application of Pseudomonas fluorescens Bacillus substilis, Panicum subalbidum and Schoenoplectus senegalensis was evaluated during 28 days of remediation. Each pot contained crude oil mixture in the soil as a sole source of carbon and energy. THB counts ranged from 2.35 to 4.15 cfu/g. The statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the total heterotrophic bacteria counts between the samples. HUB counts range from 0.7 to 1.45cfu/g. The total bacterial population counts obtained from soil sample during bioremediation monitoring ranged from 17+1.41 (CS+PAN) to 40+1.412cfu/g (CS+PSE+BAC+PAN) in Day 1. Results of Day 14 range from 13+1.41 (CS+PAN) to 35.5+3.542cfu/g (CS+BAC+SCH). Results of Day 28 ranged from 8.5+0.71 (CS+PAN) to 27+1.412cfu/g (CS+PSE+BAC+PAN). The presence of microbial activity was determined by the enumeration and isolation of total heterotrophic and hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria. The results of physicochemical parameters before bioremediation is as follows: pH (5.43), Temperature (27oC), Electrical conductivity (9), Moisture content (7.80%), Total organic carbon (0.93%), Soil organic matter (1.60%), Nitrogen (56.695mg/kg), Phosphorus (0.621mg/kg), Potassium (7.125mg/kg) and Total Hydrocarbon content (700mg/kg). Results revealed amount of soil hydrocarbon removed and percentage (%) Bioremediation remediated after 28 days of monitoring to be higher in set up with CS+PSE+SCH (3454mg/kg; 85.28%) and lowest in set up with US+SCH (434mg/kg: 62%) and the amount of root hydrocarbon content removed and percentage (%) Bioremediation remediated after 28 days of monitoring to be higher in set up with CS+BAC+SCH (632Mg/kg; 15.6%) and lowest in set up with US+SCH (12.2mg/kg; 1.74%).
 Three (3) most occurring hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial isolates were isolated and identified culturally and phenotypically from the soil samples these bacteria isolates were confirmed to be Peudomonas, Priestia megaterium and Bacillus spp molecularly via sequencing of the 16SrRNA gene. The most common bacteria isolated were Bacillus spp at a dilution of 104. This research revealed and recommend that Panicum subalbidum as a suitable plant species for phytoremediation of crude oil-contaminated soil.

Treatment of abattoir wastewater using <i>Moringa oleifera</i> seed and snail shell in Rivers State, Nigeria

The practice of discharging abattoir wastewater into a receptacle without treatment is most likely to alter its physicochemical and microbiological properties. Against this background, this study is aimed at determining the efficacy of Moringa oleifera and snail shells as bio-coagulants for treatment of abattoir wastewater using the jar. The mean values of monitored physicochemical parameters were electrical conductivity (1227.7), total organic carbon (224.4%), biochemical oxygen demand (362.3 mg/l), chemical oxygen demand (1001.5g), total dissolved solids (462.5 mg/l), total suspended solids (1562.5) mg/l and turbidity (190.6 NTU). The mean total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) for untreated wastewater was 1.4 x 108 CFU/ml, total coliform count (TCC) was 5.6 x 105 CFU/ml, and total fungal count (TFC) was 1.6 x 102 CFU/ml. After treatment, the biocoagulants caused 82.5-84.2% reduction in EC, TOC (59-88.3%), BOD (90.8-93.7%), COD (94.4-95.3%), TDS (89.6-91.9%), TSS (93.3-94.5%) and turbidity (80.8-84.5%). The bio-coagulants were able to remove 92.2-95.4% of Zn, Pb (97-97.5%), Cr (97.2-98.8%) and Cd (86.7-89.3%). After treatment with the bio-coagulants, THBC dropped from 4.7 x 103-5.3 x 102 CFU/ml to 8-10 CFU/ml on day 6, TCC dropped from 4.2 x 102 – 6.7 x 10 CFU/ml to 5-7 CFU/ml on day 6 while TFC dropped from 1.1 x 102 - 1.5 x 10 CFU/ml to 2-4 CFU/ml on day 6, representing approximately 99.9% reduction in microbial load. Thus, the bio-coagulants were as good at removing pollutants in water as alum, but with the added advantages of being natural, cost-effective, and readily available.

Efficacy of processing methods on the proximate composition and microbial loads in Senilia senilis (Linnaeus, 1758) in mangrove swamps of Iko estuary, southeast, Nigeria

The traditional uses of Senilia senilis by the inhabitants of Iko town, Eastern Obolo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria are enormous. A total of 250 samples of S. senilis was collected from the sampling site over a period of twelve (12) months and randomly subjected to four (4) different processing methods. Standard analytical procedures were used for proximate compositions and microbiological examination. Eleven (11) bacterial species and six (6) fungal species were isolated. Mean Total Heterotrophic Bacteria Count (THBC) of 1.72 × 105 cfu g−1 was recorded with least in shell (1.61 ± 1.7x105cfu g−1) and highest in gut (1.92 ± 2.1 × 105). Mean Total Vibrio Count (TVC) was 7.62 × 10−1cfu g−1 and followed the same pattern. Mean Total Coliform Count (TCC) was 3.33 × 101 cfu g−1 with least in flesh and highest in gut. Mean Total Salmonella Shigella (TSS) of 2.40 × 102 cfu g−1 was recorded and followed the same pattern. Mean Total staphylococcal Count (TSC) was 5.62 × 10−1 cfu g−1 with none on shell. Mean Total Fungal Count (TFC) was 3.33 × 104 cfu g−1 with least in shell and highest in flesh. THBC was low in fried (1.44 ± 0.43 × 104) and salted (1.43 ± 0.95b x104), TVC low in salted (1.15 ± 0.85 × 10), TCC low in salted (1.59 ± 0.42 × 10), while TSS and TSC were completely destroyed in frozen, fried and salted samples. TFC was low in salted (1.11 ± 0.09 × 104). Microbes were eradicated differentially across treatments. Proximate composition was mildly affected by the different processing. Generally, salting emerged first. However, a combination of some methods may produce a synergic effect.

Level of Microbial Contamination of Freshly Prepared Fufu and Retailed Fufu

Fufu is an acid-fermented products produced through submerged fermentation of cassava root in water for days. The study was set to determine the microbiological quality and the physiochemical composition of freshly prepared fufu (FF) and retailed fufu (RF). A standard microbiological method was used in enumerating and identify bacteria and fungi species isolated. The total heterotrophic bacteria count ranges from Log10 cfu/g 2.14 to 6.18 and 3.56 to 7.06 for retailed fufu and freshly prepared fufu respectively. Predominant bacteria found in the samples studied and their percentage of distribution were Lactobacillus 17(23%), Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. 14(19%), Bacillus sp. 13(18%), Micrococcus sp. 5(7%), Enterobacter and Corynebacterium were 4(5%) and Proteus has the least 3(4%). Among the fungi were Mucor sp. and Candida sp. were 6(26.1%), Aspergillus niger 4(17.4%), Saccharomyces sp. 5(21.7%), and Rhizopus sp.2(8.7). The proximate analysis revealed an insignificant difference in crude protein ranging from 1.36% in FF to 1.24 in RF, carbohydrates content 82.88% to83.12% in RF and FF, ash content is higher in FF ranging 7.33% to 1.53%  RF, while the moisture content is higher in RF with 9.47% and 1.78% in FF. Magnesium ranges from 38.4mg/ml in FF to 35.3mg/ml in RF .The results obtained showed that the fufu samples that were retailed were more contaminated than the freshly prepared fufu  which might pose risk to health. Therefore, there is a need for proper sanitary conditions and best processing and production especially during packing is recommended.

Responses of Selected Soil Properties to Mixed Tree Plantation and Cassava Land Use in Southern Nigeria

Responses of some selected soil properties to mixed tree plantation and cassava land use in southernNigeria were evaluated in this study. The objectives were to examine variations in the selected soilproperties among the different agricultural land use types; ascertain relationships between the soilproperties; and evaluate cause-effect relationships between the soil properties. A total of 54 soil samplesat 0-15 and 15-30 cm depths were collected from mixed tree plantation, cassava land use and secondaryforest using transect sampling method. Soil samples were analysed for selected physical, chemical andbiological properties following standard laboratory methods. The results revealed significant variations(p ≤ 0.05) in the values of sand, silt, bulk density (BD), total porosity (TP), pH, total heterotrophic bacteriacounts (THB) and total heterotrophic fungi counts (THF) in soils of the three land use types. The valuesof BD and TP did not exceed the respective critical limits of 1.75 g cm-3 and 40% for productive soils.However, pH, available phosphorous (Avail. P), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM),THB and THF responded negatively to mixed tree and cassava cultivation in the 0-15 cm soil depth astheir values were lower than that of the control site. Significant positive (e.g., silt versusSOM/SOC/TN/Avail. P, and TP versus pH) and negative (e.g., clay versus SOC/SOM/Avail. P)relationships as well as significant cause and effect relationships (such as Avail. P versussilt/clay/TP/SOC/SOM/TN) were observed between some of the soil properties across the three land usetypes and soil depths. The study concluded that the examined soil quality indicators responded differentlyto the evaluated land use types.

Dietary Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum Combined with Galactooligosaccharide on Immunological and Biochemical Parameters, Gut Microbiota, Digestive Enzyme Activity, Body Composition, and Stress Resistance in Narrow-Clawed Crayfish, Pontastacus leptodactylus (Eschscholtz, 1823)

The effects of galactooligosaccharide (GOS) and varying levels of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) on some physiological parameters as well as air exposure stress resistance in clawed crayfish (Pontastacus leptodactylus) were investigated. During a 97-day trial, 216 crayfish were fed with four experimental diets (in triplicates) including the control diet (without GOS and LP), GLP7 (GOS 2%+LP 107 CFU.g-1 diet), GLP8 (GOS 2%+LP 108 CFU.g-1 diet), and GLP9 (GOS 2%+LP 109 CFU.g-1 diet). At the end of the trial, 26% higher amounts of the total hemocyte count (THC) and semigranular cells (SGC) and 27% higher hyaline cells (HC) were observed in GLP7. A significant improvement in lysozyme value was observed in GLP7 and GLP8. Moreover, superoxide dismutase was significantly higher in GLP9, whereas the catalase (CAT) activity did not change in the experimental groups. Unlikely, plasma glucose levels decreased in all the GLP treatments. In terms of intestinal microbiota, autochthonous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) remarkably increased in all the GLP-supplemented groups, while total autochthonous intestinal heterotrophic bacteria counts (TVC) did not change in GLP-supplemented groups. However, 14 days after switching to the basal diet, no reduction was detected in TVC, but LAB levels decreased in GLP7 and GLP9 treatments. Dietary administration of GLP could beneficially modulate digestive enzyme activity, including protease, lipase, and amylase. Furthermore, higher lipid and gross energy were observed in GLP9. However, GLP-supplemented diets could not improve growth performance parameters. After 24 h subjecting to air exposure stress, although no mortality was detected, crayfish fed GLP-supplemented diets were healthier through enhanced THC, SGC, and HC levels in GLP7 and GLP9 and CAT activity in GLP7 and GLP8. These results proved the positive impacts of dietary supplementation with combined GOS and LP, with GLP8 and GLP9 as optimum diets, on immunochemical parameters, intestinal microbiota, digestive enzyme activity, and stress resistance in P. leptodactylus.

Microorganisms in Soil and Groundwater of Epe and Laje Solid Waste Dumpsites in Ondo Town, Nigeria

The menace of open dumps is a serious concern in Nigeria because of its associated health hazards.  In this work, microorganisms in soil and groundwater of Epe and Laje dumpsites which are two major dumpsites in Ondo metropolis, Nigeria were investigated using standard techniques. Bacteria isolates were later identified based on their colonial morphology, cellular morphology and their biochemical characteristics while cotton in blue lactophenol technique was used for fungal identification. Epe had higher bacteria counts (cfu/ml) in both top soil (122.0 ×106) and subsoil (72.0 ×106) when compared with bacteria counts in Laje top soil (97.0 ×106) and subsoil (52.0 ×106). Similarly, Epe also had higher fungi counts (sfu/ml) in both top (25.5× 106) and subsoil (11.5× 106), comparably with fungi counts in Laje top soil (17.0×106) and subsoil (9.5×106)). Meanwhile, total heterotrophic bacteria counts (cfu/ml) of the ground water samples was higher in Epe (42.0 x106 ) and Laje (27.0x106) in comparison with total heterotrophic fungi count (sfu/ml) in Epe (14.0x106) and Laje groundwater samples (10.5x106). Identified isolates included Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus, Proteus spp (bacteria) and Mucor spp, Aspergillus niger and Fusarium spp (fungi). Remarkably, these isolates are organisms of medical importance, suggesting serious health threats to the residents around the dumpsites.

Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons Levels and Bacterial Load on Soil after Consistent Disposal of Untreated Hairdressing Saloon Effluent in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria

This study estimated polyaromatic hydrocarbons levels and bacterial load on soil after thirty day (30) days consistent disposal of untreated hairdressing saloon effluent in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria using standard methods.  A non-polluted soil sample was also collected which served as the control for this experiment. The total heterotrophic bacteria count was determined.  Toxicity analysis was carried to determine the effect of the effluent on soil bacteria. The soil samples were also was analyzed for the presence of polyaromatic hydrocarbon using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The polyaromaic hydrocarbon (PAHs) detected in the test soil sample were 45.02ng/g Biphenyl, 28.23ng/g Benzo[a]pyrene, 12.05ng/g Anthracene, 23.00ng/g, and  5.07ng/g Phenanthrene. 2.01ng/g of Biphenyl was detected in the control garden soil. Bacteria counts from the contaminated soil range from 1.0 x102 ± 1.10 to 4.0 x 102 ± 0.11.  The counts from the control soil sample range from 2.0 x103 ± 0.20 to 8.2 x103 ± 0.20. The control soil sample had a higher value compared to the test soil samples. Bacteria species isolated from these soil samples were: Serretia sp., Klebsiella sp., Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp., Staphylococcus sp. Pseudomonas sp. and Staphylococcus sp had increased percentage occurrence. The acute and chronic toxicity test showed a decline in the bacterial count, which could have occurred due to the presence of PAHs from Salon effluent. I was observed a constant release of PAHs into the soil, which poses a serious threat to the survival of soil bacteria, will alter the various beneficial roles these bacteria play in the soil ecosystem.

Impact of Oilfield Wastewaters from Soku Swamp Rig on the Population and Diversity of Microbes in Soku River in Niger Delta

Oilfield wastewater contains poisonous and dangerous compounds that harm microorganisms and the quality of the water. An ongoing environmental concern in the Niger Delta is the rapid deterioration of water quality brought on by oilfield wastewater discharged from Nigerian oil industry operations. For a period of two months, biweekly studies were conducted to evaluate the microbiological effects of oilfield effluent from the Soku swamp oil rig on the Soku River in Rivers State in the Niger Delta. A total heterotrophic bacterial count, a hydrocarbon-utilizing bacterial count, a total fungal count, a hydrocarbon-using fungal count, and a microflora count were all determined using water samples obtained from upstream, downstream, drilling points, Deck drainage, and a control point. Total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) counts ranged from 0.2 to 2.4 (log10cfu/ml), total fungal (TF) count ranged from 0.1 to 0.95 (log10cfu /ml), while the total hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial (THUB) count ranged from 0.01 to 0.25 (log10cfu/ml), and the total hydrocarbon utilizing fungal (THUF) count ranged from 0.01 to 0.85 (log10cfu/ml). A statistical study revealed no appreciable difference in THB between the sampling stations and the controls. Streptococcus spp., Bacillus spp., Pediococcus spp., Kurthia, Staphylococcus, and Micrococcus spp. were among the bacteria species isolated for the study. Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium adamatzii, Rhizopus oligosporus, and Penicillium spp. were among the fungi that were isolated. The study's bacterial and fungal counts showed how oilfield effluent affected aquatic microorganisms. The abundance of microorganisms that use hydrocarbons demonstrated that the water body under study had active native hydrocarbon utilizers that can be used in the bioremediation process.

Heavy metal co-resistance with antibiotics amongst bacteria isolates from an open dumpsite soil

Heavy metal co-resistance with antibiotics appears to be synergistic in bacterial isolates via similar mechanisms. This synergy has the potential to amplify antibiotics resistance genes in the environment which can be transferred into clinical settings. The aim of this study was to assess the co-resistance of heavy metals with antibiotics in bacteria from dumpsite in addition to physicochemical analysis. Sample collection, physicochemical analysis, and enumeration of total heterotrophic bacteria counts (THBC) were all carried out using standard existing protocols. Identified bacteria isolates were subjected to antibiotics sensitivity test using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique and the resulting multidrug resistant (MDR) isolates were subjected to heavy metal tolerance test using agar dilution technique with increasing concentrations (50, 100, 150, 200 and to 250 μg/ml) of our study heavy metals. THBC ranged from 6.68 to 7.92 × 105 cfu/g. Out of the 20 isolates subjected to antibiotics sensitivity, 50% (n = 10) showed multiple drug resistance and these were B. subtilis, B. cereus, C. freundii, P. aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp, and E. coli (n = 5). At the lowest concentration (50 μg/ml), all the MDR isolates tolerated all the heavy metals, but at 250 μg/ml, apart from cadmium and lead, all test isolates were 100% sensitive to chromium, vanadium and cobalt. The control isolate was only resistant to cobalt and chromium at 50 μg/ml, but sensitive to other heavy metals at all concentrations The level of co-resistance shown by these isolates is a call for concern.

Variations in bacterial spectrum and physicochemistry of top soils exposed to gas flaring in Ologbo community, Edo state

Nigeria is a major exporter of petroleum and natural gas and a majority of the petroleum exploratory activities takes place in the Niger Delta area, where  high rates of gas flaring associated with exploration and production of these products occur. The study investigated changes in bacterial flora and  physicochemistry of soils within the Oredo flow station facility. Seven soil samples were collected in triplicates at radial distances of 40m, 80m, 120m,  160m, 200m, 1km from the flare stack and the control sample was collected from a farmland far from the flow-station but within the community.  Standard methods were employed in evaluating the physicochemical parameters and bacteriological analysis was conducted using serial dilution and  pour plate methods. The results revealed that gas flaring had significant effects on some soil physicochemical parameters. The impact of gas flare was  found to lower the moisture content at 4.44 % for soils collected at 40m whilst for the control soil, it was 12.83%. The nitrate and total nitrogen content of  the soil varied from 9.96±1.44 to 12.21±0.13mg/kg and 0.01±0.00 to 0.2±0.01%. The total heterotrophic bacteria count varied from 0.4 ± 0.33 to  14.67±3.77 ×106 cfu/g. Identified bacterial species were; Streptococci sp., Corynebacterium sp., Stenotrophomonas sp., Staphylococcus sp., Micrococcus sp.,  Bacillus sp., Acinetobacter sp., Burkholderia sp. and Bacillus sp. The results revealed that gas flaring had a negative effect on soil bacteria population and   physicochemical properties.

Microbiological Evaluation of Various Oilfield Wastewaters from Oben Land Rig Location in Edo State, Nigeria

Oilfield wastewater contains poisonous and dangerous compounds that harm microorganisms and the quality of the water. According to estimates, Nigerian oil industry operations generate significant amounts of wastewater that are improperly treated before being released into the environment. For a period of two months, biweekly analyses of the microbiological effects of various oilfield wastes on the microbial population and variety of aquatic environments were conducted. Water samples collected 10 cm from pit 1, pit 2, pit 3, camp pit 1, and camp pit 2 were analyzed for total heterotrophic bacterial count, hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial count, total fungal count, and hydrocarbon utilizing fungal count, and for microflora using standard microbiological methods. Total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) counts ranged from 4.0×104 Log10cfu/ml to 4.4×104 Log10cfu/ml, total fungal (TF) count ranged from 2.0×104 Log10cfu/ml to 2.2×104 Log10cfu/ml. The total hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial (THUB) count ranged from 3.0 ×104 Log10cfu/ml to 3.1 ×104 Log10cfu/ml, while the total hydrocarbon utilizing fungal (THUF) count ranged from 1.0×104 Log10cfu/ml to 1.1×104 Log10cfu/ml. Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the THB between the pits and the sampling stations. The types of bacteria isolated in the study included Kurthia spp, Bacillus spp, Pediococcus spp, Enterococcus spp, Aeromonas spp, Micrococcus spp, Pseudomonas spp, Escherichia coli, Alcaligenes spp and Lactobacillus spp. The fungi isolated included Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium brevicompactum, Rhizopus oryzae and Fusarium spp. The study's bacterial and fungal counts showed how oilfield effluent affected aquatic microorganisms. According to the significant frequency of hydrocarbon-using bacteria, the water under investigation contained active native hydrocarbon utilizers that might be used in the bioremediation process.

The Influence of Cassava Mill Effluents on Soil Microbial Community in Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria

The influence of cassava mill effluent on the microbial community of the soil was determined using viable counts method. Soil samples were collected from different sites (Locations A, B, C and D) impacted with cassava mill effluent, and also from sites unimpacted with cassava mill effluent, which served as control. The result of analysis of the impacted soil showed that the counts of Total Heterotrophic Bacteria, Total Coliforms and Total Fungi ranged from 2.0x103 CFU/ml to 2.3x104 CFU/ml, 1.9x102 CFU/ml to 1.5x104 CFU/ml and 1.4x102 CFU/ml to 2.2x102 CFU/ml respectively. These values were lower compared to the values (3.4x105 CFU/g to 3.6x106 CFU/g, 2.1x106  CFU/g to 3.3x106 CFU/g and 2.1x104 CFU/g to 3.0x104 CFU/g respectively) obtained from the unimpacted soils (control). The identification process of the isolates revealed the presence of the following bacteria; Bacillus spp., Micrococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., Salmonella spp. The fungal isolates from the effluents were identified to be Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp. and Mucor spp. The results obtained indicates that effluents from cassava mill effluent have a great impact on the microbial population of the soil. Since its application causes change that affects the microbial population and diversity, its continuous disposal could lead to decreased soil fertility and consequent low crop yield. Therefore, cassava mill effluents should be subjected to treatments that reduces their harmful substance content before disposal.

Assessment of the physicochemical properties, heavy metal concentrations, and bacteriological quality of borehole water in Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria

Borehole water remains one of the principal sources of drinking water in Etsako Central Local Government Area; therefore, it is very crucial to evaluate the quality of these various borehole water sources. This study is aimed at investigating the physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, total hardness, Calcium hardness, Magnesium hardness, salinity, appearance, odour, Sulphate, Nitrate, Carbonate and Bicarbonate, Sodium, Calcium, and Magnesium contents, heavy metals (Cadmium, Arsenic and Lead) concentrations and bacteriological qualities (total heterotrophic bacteria count and total coliform count) of groundwater from twelve  (12) boreholes in different locations in Edo North Senatorial District (Etsako West, Etsako Central, and Etsako East Local Government Areas). All parameters evaluated in-situ were done using standard methods in the laboratory. All physicochemical properties analyzed in this study complied with the recommended standards except for pH which is acidic. The heavy metal concentrations and the total heterotrophic bacterial count mean values exceeded the WHO permissible guideline value. Seven (7) genera of bacteria isolates namely; Enterococcus spp, Staphylococcus spp, Neisseria spp, Klebsiella spp, Yersinia pestis, E. coli, and Streptococcus spp were identified. This study reveals that the quality of groundwater from different boreholes across the Etsako Central Local Government Area is not fit for consumption due to the presence of increased levels of trace elements contaminations and high bacteria load. Therefore, it is recommended that adequate treatment of the water from different borehole sources by boiling or chlorination prior to consumption should be carried out.

Bacteria Associated with Skin Piercing Equipment and their Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Skin Piercing is becoming rampant among adolescent in our contemporary society without considering its health implication and the risk of pathogenic microorganisms associated with equipment used. Hence, this research is carried out to determine the bacteria associated with this skin piercing equipment and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern in Port Harcourt metropolis. A total of thirty (30) skin piercing equipment were swab using sterile swab sticks and samples subjected to standard microbiological technique as well as standard plate count, culturing, identification and antibiotic susceptibility pattern using Kirby Bauer Disk diffusion method.  The distributed questionnaires showed that the percentage of female (79.56%) involved in skin piercing is more than the males (20.44%). The total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 4.75±0.03×103 CFU/ml to 6.31±0.23×104 CFU/ml in RSU back gate and PH Victoria Street respectively. The total Staphylococcal count ranged from 1.90±0.01×102 CFU/ml to 4.31±0.03×102 CFU/ml in RSU back gate and PH Victoria Street respectively. A total of Seventeen (17) bacteria isolates were identified belonging to the following genera; Staphylococcus spp, Streptococcus spp, Bacillus spp, Micrococcus spp, and Clostridium spp. The prevalence of the bacteria indicated that Staphylococcus had the highest occurrence (26%), followed closely by Pseudomonas spp (19%), and Clostridium spp (11.7%) had the least prevalence across the locations. The Antimicrobial sensitivity testing results shows that Staphylococcus spp, Streptococcus spp, Bacillus spp, Micrococcus spp, and Clostridium spp are more susceptible to Erythromycin, Gentamicin and Ofloxacin (100%) and resistant to Augmentin, Ceftazidime, Cefuroxime and Ceftriaxone (100%) Pseudomonas spp was Susceptible to Gentamicin, Nitrofurantoin and Ciprofloxacin (100%) and resistant to Ceftazidime, Cefuroxime and Augmentin (100%). These bacteria isolated are mostly pathogenic and may result in an increase in health complication as a result of non-hygienic protocol employed during using this skin piercing equipment. Professionals should enlighten and give advisory comment to adolescent about the risks involved in skin piercing practices.