CHEMICAL AND MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF WELL WATER: A CASE STUDY

4th International Symposium On Biotechnology (2026),  [pp. 881-886]
 
AUTHOR(S) / АУТОР(И): Nenad Zlatić , Jelena Mašković , Pavle Mašković , Katarina Marković, Mirjana Grujović
 
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46793/SBT26.881Z

ABSTRACT / САЖЕТАК:

Groundwater from artesian wells is commonly considered a safe source of drinking water due to natural filtration processes. However, its quality may be compromised by hydrogeological conditions and insufficient sanitary protection. This case study aimed to assess both microbiological and chemical safety of water sampled from an artesian well and to evaluate compliance with drinking water standards. Microbiological analysis revealed elevated total microbial counts, high numbers of total coliform bacteria, and the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, exceeding permissible limits. Chemical analysis showed generally acceptable physicochemical characteristics, although increased turbidity and color values were observed. The results indicate that, despite satisfactory chemical quality, the water does not meet microbiological criteria for drinking purposes, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and appropriate treatment.

KEYWORDS / КЉУЧНЕ РЕЧИ:

artesian well, groundwater quality, microbiological safety, physicochemical parameters, drinking water standards

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT / ПРОЈЕКАТ:

The work was supported by the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation of the Republic of Serbia (Agreements No. 451-03-33/2026-03/200378 and 451-03-34/2026/03/200122).

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