Both total bacteria count and total colony count are critical parameters in medical wastewater monitoring. But are these two terms interchangeable? Let’s explore their differences through the following three aspects:
- Conceptual Differences
– Total Colony Count: Refers to the number of visible colonies formed under specific conditions (e.g., after incubation). These colonies are observable with the naked eye.
– Total Bacteria Count: Represents the total number of bacterial colonies formed in 1 ml of water sample after culturing on nutrient agar at 37°C for 24 hours.
- Differences in Nature
Not all bacteria form colonies. For instance, two identical bacteria in close proximity may merge and grow into a single colony.
- Categorical Differences
– Bacteria are classified into hetero-trophic and auto-trophic types based on their metabolic functions.
– Total colony count, however, is categorized into pathogenic bacteria and beneficial bacteria based on their impact on human health.
Additional Information:
To monitor total bacterial or colony counts in water, the enzyme substrate method is widely used. For example, the WECT-900 Online Bacterial Colony Analyzer developed by Hangzhou Modi employs this technology. It quantifies bacteria by measuring light signals proportional to bacterial activity after enzymatic reactions and incubation. This water quality monitoring system is user-friendly and provides real-time, continuous data throughout the testing process.
