Identification, distribution, and toxigenicity of obligate anaerobes in polluted waters

Abstract

A seasonal occurence of obligately anaerobic bacteria, predominantly of the genera Bacteroides and Clostridium, in a polluted water site has been observed. The number of anaerobes varied from 1.8 x 103 cells/ml in the warmer months to 10 cells/ml in winter. Several isolates were toxigenic, indicating a potential human health hazard.