Biofilm and Related Amoebas in an UK Chlorinated Drinking Water System

Drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) can host pathogenic amoebae, but the role of biofilms in supporting occurrence these organisms needs to be fully explored UK systems. The presence amoebae and associated bacteria attached inner pipe surfaces was studied an experimental full-scale chlorinated system UK. Quantitative polymerase change reaction (qPCR) used identify quantify whilst bacterial communities were characterised by sequencing 16S rRNA gene. Despite maintenance a chlorine residual network (free ≥ 0.24 mg/L), several species belonging genera Acanthamoeba, Vermamoeba, Naegleria identified 30-day-old biofilm samples; however, no detected samples analysed. dominant present Variovorax, Pseudomonas, Aquabacterium. These results indicate that contained potential bacteria, such as Acanthamoeba respectively, which implies public health risk if are mobilised into bulk water. Several this study able support resistant remain viable within prokaryotic until they reach people’s taps. identification microorganisms with amoeba could improve surveillance DWDS order protect health.