Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Ryan Rednick, Senior Mariposa Magee, Senior
Lead Presenter's Name
Marina Vaden
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Alba A. Chavez
Abstract
Coastal water quality is a critical public health concern, particularly in recreational areas where exposure to microbial contaminants can pose risks to human health. This study aimed to assess the presence of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) and potential sewage contamination in the waters of Daytona Beach Shores. Specifically, we analyzed levels of enterococci and fecal coliforms, alongside key physico-chemical parameters such as salinity and pH, to evaluate water quality and contamination trends. A total of 15 water samples were randomly collected from coastal sites and analyzed using traditional culture-based techniques and chromogenic assays to detect fecal contamination. Additionally, samples were cultured in Vibrio-selective media to determine the prevalence of Vibrionaceae bacteria, which are naturally occurring in marine environments but can include pathogenic species. Preliminary results indicate sporadic occurrences of FIB in coastal waters, suggesting variable contamination events rather than persistent pollution. Interestingly, a decreased presence of Vibrio species was observed, which may be influenced by environmental conditions such as salinity and temperature fluctuations. These findings contribute to ongoing monitoring efforts and highlight the need for continued surveillance of microbial water quality to ensure public health safety in recreational coastal areas.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Assessment of Fecal Indicator Bacteria and Vibrio Species in Daytona Beach Shores
Coastal water quality is a critical public health concern, particularly in recreational areas where exposure to microbial contaminants can pose risks to human health. This study aimed to assess the presence of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) and potential sewage contamination in the waters of Daytona Beach Shores. Specifically, we analyzed levels of enterococci and fecal coliforms, alongside key physico-chemical parameters such as salinity and pH, to evaluate water quality and contamination trends. A total of 15 water samples were randomly collected from coastal sites and analyzed using traditional culture-based techniques and chromogenic assays to detect fecal contamination. Additionally, samples were cultured in Vibrio-selective media to determine the prevalence of Vibrionaceae bacteria, which are naturally occurring in marine environments but can include pathogenic species. Preliminary results indicate sporadic occurrences of FIB in coastal waters, suggesting variable contamination events rather than persistent pollution. Interestingly, a decreased presence of Vibrio species was observed, which may be influenced by environmental conditions such as salinity and temperature fluctuations. These findings contribute to ongoing monitoring efforts and highlight the need for continued surveillance of microbial water quality to ensure public health safety in recreational coastal areas.