coliforms

English - English

Definition of coliforms in English English dictionary

gram - rods which ferment lactose, nonsporeforming

All aerobic and facultative anaerobic, gram-negative, nonspore-forming, rod-shaped bacteria that ferment lactose with gas formation within 48 hours at 95° F (35°C)

a general term applied to some species of bacteria, especially E coli, whose presence in water is an indication of contamination

Relating to, resembling, or being the colon bacillus

plural of coliform

(Coliformes)

A group of bacteria which are used as indicator organisms in various standards of hygiene for drinking water and waste water treatment