Methodological approaches for studying the microbial ecology of drinking water distribution systems

Isabel Douterelo*, Joby B. Boxall, Peter Deines, Raju Sekar, Katherine E. Fish, Catherine A. Biggs

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

197 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The study of the microbial ecology of drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) has traditionally been based on culturing organisms from bulk water samples. The development and application of molecular methods has supplied new tools for examining the microbial diversity and activity of environmental samples, yielding new insights into the microbial community and its diversity within these engineered ecosystems. In this review, the currently available methods and emerging approaches for characterising microbial communities, including both planktonic and biofilm ways of life, are critically evaluated. The study of biofilms is considered particularly important as it plays a critical role in the processes and interactions occurring at the pipe wall and bulk water interface. The advantages, limitations and usefulness of methods that can be used to detect and assess microbial abundance, community composition and function are discussed in a DWDS context. This review will assist hydraulic engineers and microbial ecologists in choosing the most appropriate tools to assess drinking water microbiology and related aspects.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)134-156
Number of pages23
JournalWater Research
Volume65
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Nov 2014

Keywords

  • Biofilms
  • Drinking water distribution systems
  • Methodological approaches
  • Microbial diversity
  • Microbial function

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