E. Coli
If total coliform bacteria are present in a water sample, a further test is performed to determine if E. coli is also present. E. coli is short for Escherichia coli. E. coli is a type of fecal Coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. The presence of E. coli is a strong indication of recent sewage or animal waste contamination. E. coli can also cause stomach upset and other serious health problems, even more so than total coliform bacteria alone.