Micrology Laboratories have developed a new technology called ECA Check which extends the capability of their Coliscan easygel method.
ECA Check distinguishes between E coli, coliforms, Aeromonas and Salmonella by detecting the enzymes released by these species. It is only available form the Membrane Filter method. Aeromonas spp are common in water supplies and are generally considered pathogenic because they can cause diseases. Their presence and numbers is generally considered to be a good indicator of water quality. Up to now water quality regulations do not usually specify maximum numbers of Aeromonas. But the new Micrology kits mean that it is now possible to monitor these important bacteria in water supplies.
Please note that the colours for each type of bacteria are not the same as for the Easygel method. To see the Coliscan Easygel colour guide go to Coliscan Easygel colour guide.
In this method a known volume of water (usually 100 ml) is filtered through a very fine filter. The actual numbers of bacteria (as colonies) and the different types can be counted on the filter after incubation. Incubation usually takes between 24 to 48 hrs depending on the temperature. You will probably not need a magnifier but it might make identification easier.
These membrane filter kits kits are available in Australia. See our section Bacteria test kits.
This picture is supplied courtesy of Micrology Laboratories.
Count all dark blue to black colonies as E. coli (fecal coliform), blue-gray colonies as general coliforms, pink colonies as Aeromonas spp. and green colonies as Salmonella spp. The sum of dark blue - black and blue - gray colonies is total coliforms.
Check out our other help pages for information on choosing and using the Easygel test kits How to test your water for bacteria, Coliscan Easygel kits and Choosing bacteria test kits.