What do Coliforms indicate in a water sample?

Coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the environment, including in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans. Their presence in a water sample serves as an indicator of potential contamination by harmful bacteria that could pose a health risk to humans. This is because coliforms are often associated with fecal matter and can signal that pathogens or other dangerous microorganisms may also be present in the water supply.

Testing for coliforms is a crucial step in assessing water quality because it helps identify whether the water has been contaminated with fecal material, which might include bacteria that can cause diseases. Therefore, detecting these bacteria is essential for ensuring public health and safety regarding drinking water.

The other options, while related to water quality, do not accurately reflect what coliforms specifically indicate. The presence of microbes alone is too broad and does not specify potential health risks. Water pH levels and mineral content pertain to different aspects of water quality and are not directly associated with coliform presence.