Bacteriological Analysis of Recreational Water in Port Harcourt City Pleasure Park

The quality of recreational water is crucial for public health, as contamination can pose serious health risks to users. This study evaluated the bacteriological quality of recreational water in Port Harcourt Pleasure Park, Rivers state, focusing on the presence of harmful bacteria. Water samples were collected from two locations within the park and analyzed for bacteriological quality. Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Count (THBC) wasdetermined using a ten-fold serial dilution method, followed by plating on nutrient agar and incubation at 37°C for 24 hours. Total Coliform Counts were assessed using multiple-tube fermentation techniques, with results expressed as colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 ml. The presence of Escherichia coli was confirmed through biochemical tests, including catalase, oxidase, citrate utilization, indole production, methyl red, urease, gas production, and sugar fermentation tests.The results revealed that Sample 1 had a mean THBC of 1.26×10⁶ cfu/ml and a Total Coliform Count of 5-46 organisms per 100 mL, indicating significant fecal contamination and potential health risks. Sample 2 showed a mean THBC of 7.6 × 10⁵ cfu/mL, with similar coliform counts, suggesting ongoing contamination. All two samples tested positive for E. coli, a strong indicator of fecal pollution. Biochemical profiling of the isolates confirmed the presence of E. coli, exhibitingcharacteristic reactions such as catalase positivity and indole production.These findings underscore the need for regular monitoring and remediation efforts to ensure safe recreational water quality, thereby protecting public health in Port Harcourt Pleasure Park. Continuous assessment and effective management strategies which are essential to mitigate health risks associated with waterborne pathogens are hereby recommended.