CHAPTEK IX 



THE MICROBES OF WATER 



THE organisms present in water have long been 

 observed by the aid of the microscope, but it is 

 only during the last decade that bacteriological 

 methods have been introduced for the systematic 

 examination of potable and other waters. 



Water is one of the most convenient vehicles for 

 the distribution of microbes, and unfiltered water 

 abounds in these small specks of animated matter. 

 This need not cause any surprise, because, as we 

 have already seen, the atmosphere and soils are 

 laden with microbes. In fact, every shower of rain 

 diminishes the number of microbes suspended in 

 air. These are then found in puddles, pools, ponds, 

 rivers, etc., and consequently are carried into well 

 and other potable waters. Although the majority 

 of these microbes are harmless, it is always advis- 

 able to filter water before use. One of the best 

 filters for this purpose is Maignen's * Filtre Eapide/ 

 Among the various microbes found in water are 

 the following : 



