Microbiological and Physicochemical Evaluation of a Spring for Human Consumption in Huancayo, Peru

• Omar Saúl Antesano Chávez Technological University of Peru https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6833-7070
• Melisha Erika Rosas Poma Technological University of Peru https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5011-5541
• Nataly Johanna Zavala Figueroa Franklin Roosevelt University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7940-6369

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14599952

Keywords: Water consumption, Water bacteriology, Water quality, Water analysis

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical quality of water for human consumption from the Matapuquio spring, located in Huancayo, Peru. Methodology: The research is of a basic type, with a descriptive-comparative design, and was conducted using the following parameters at four sampling points: Fecal Coliforms (Thermotolerant), Total Coliforms, Escherichia coli, Conductivity, pH, Salinity, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Results: Regarding total coliforms, no fecal contamination was observed. Similarly, Escherichia coli was not detected (<1.0 CFU/100mL), indicating that the water's safety is acceptable for human consumption. In terms of conductivity, the results are suitable for potable water. Additionally, pH values ranged from 7.90 to 8.13, which is adequate for human consumption. The salinity result was 0.17 ppt in all samples, indicating a low amount of dissolved salts, making it viable for human consumption. Finally, the TDS results were consistent at 236 mg/L, within the limits to be considered potable water. Conclusion: At the time of the study, it was highlighted that the Matapuquio spring is suitable for human consumption, with good microbiological and physicochemical characteristics.

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