BACTERIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS OF SELECTED FISH PONDS AT OWERRI METROPOLIS

This study assessed the bacteriological quality of fish pond water from selected fish ponds in Amakohia Area, Owerri Metropolis, Imo State, Nigeria, to determine the level of microbial contamination and its public health implications. A total of nine (9) pond water samples were collected from three sampling points (A, B, and C) and analyzed using standard microbiological methods. Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Count (THBC), Total Coliform Count (TCC), Fecal Coliform Count (FCC), and bacterial isolation and identification were carried out using conventional culture and biochemical techniques. The THBC ranged from 4.15 × 10⁴ to 5.64 × 10⁴ CFU/mL, while TCC ranged from 11.5 to 18.7 CFU/100 mL and FCC ranged from 5.8 to 9.5 CFU/100 ML. Point B consistently recorded the highest bacterial counts, whereas Point C had the lowest. A total of 42 bacterial isolates were recovered, comprising Escherichia coli (23.8%), Staphylococcus aureus (19.0%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (16.7%), Bacillus spp. (14.3%), Klebsiella spp. (11.9%), Proteus spp. (9.5%), and Salmonella spp. (4.8%). The predominance of E. coli and the detection of fecal coliforms indicate fecal contamination of the pond water, while the presence of potential pathogens suggests poor sanitary conditions and possible health risks to fish consumers. The study concludes that the investigated fish ponds were bacteriologically contaminated to varying degrees, with Point B showing the highest level of contamination. Regular microbiological monitoring, improved pond sanitation, proper waste management, routine water replacement, and strict biosecurity measures are recommended to improve water quality, ensure healthy fish production, and protect public health.