ISOLATION OF MICRO-ORGANISM FORMING BIOFILM IN WATER RESERVOIR IN FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC KAURA NAMODA

ABSTRACT Water reservoirs are essential for the storage and supply of potable water, yet they can serve as niches for microbial colonization and biofilm formation, posing significant public health risks. This study investigated the isolation, identification, and characterization of biofilm-forming microorganisms in the water reservoir at Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda. Water samples were collected from three locations within the reservoir (Mosque, New Admin, and Yankaba) and analyzed using nutrient agar, MacConkey, and EMB media. Bacterial and fungal isolates were identified through morphological, microscopic, and biochemical characterization, including catalase, oxidase, coagulase, urease, triple sugar iron, and sugar fermentation tests, while fungal isolates were examined using lactophenol cotton blue staining. Results revealed a total of 24 bacterial isolates, dominated by Escherichia coli (58%), followed by Bacillus spp. (21%), Klebsiella spp. (12.5%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8%). Fungal isolates included Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium spp. All bacterial isolates demonstrated strong biofilm-forming ability. Microbial load varied by location, with the highest counts recorded at Yankaba. The study concluded that the reservoir harbors diverse biofilm-forming microorganisms, including potential pathogens, posing a risk to students and staff. Regular cleaning, microbial monitoring, and effective disinfection strategies are recommended to ensure water safety.