ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF MICROBIAL LOAD OF UGWUOMU-NIKE RIVER SITES

The Ugwuomu-Nike river also known as Iyoko river is located at Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike Enugu. This study aims to isolate and identify the river water's microbial load. Sterile containers were used to collect four water samples from four riverside locations. The overall appearance and features, including: The river water samples' pH, temperature, and appearance were examined. For the purpose of identifying pathogenic parasites, these samples were centrifuged and examined under a microscope. The results showed that the eggs of the parasite Enterobius vermicularis (Pinworm) were present. The water samples were cultured using pour plate method into Eosine Methylene Blue (EMB) agar and Nutrient agar and dub cultured into MacConkey agar. Gram stain and biochemical tests including, Oxidase test, Catalase test, Urease test, Coagulase test, Citrate test and Indole test were carried out. The microorganisms isolated and identified were Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. This study confirms the presence of bacteria and pathogenic parasites at Iyoko river, hence, the need for water treatment should be employed to avoid water borne diseases and infection by contact and consumption.