coliform etymology

Etymology

Origin: Latin

Meaning: "Intestine-form"

Breakdown:

• Coli_ (Latin): "Intestine"
• forma (Latin): "Form, shape"

Meaning and Origin

Coliform bacteria are a group of Gram-negative bacteria that are found in the intestines of humans and warm-blooded animals. The name "coliform" reflects the fact that these bacteria resemble the bacteria found in feces (fecal coliforms).

Specifically, coliform bacteria are characterized by the following properties:

• Gram-negative
• Facultative anaerobes (can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen)
• Rod-shaped
• Ferment lactose to produce acids and gas (within 48 hours at 35°C)

Coliform bacteria are commonly used as indicators of fecal contamination in water and food. Their presence suggests that there may be harmful pathogens present, such as Salmonella, Shigella, or Escherichia coli.

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