Microbiology and water quality

Abstract

Microorganisms can have a major effect on water quality. They can be involved in the transformation of a substance which becomes a pollutant when it enters water (e.g. nitrate-N). Microorganisms can be involved in the accumulation of substances which become toxic at higher concentrations (e.g.heavymetals). Those of sanitary significance can carry genes which can be transferred to cause pathogenic microorganisms to become resistant to antibiotics, they can be pathogens themselves, or they can indicate the possible presence of pathogens. Microorganisms and their activities can affect nonsaline surface waters, marine and groundwaters. Efforts to control their influence can include waste treatment, control of water supplies, and selection of environments into which wastes are discharged. The papers in these proceedings cover many aspects of microorganisms and their activities, particularly as they affect water quality in New Zealand.