Definitions for "Fecal coliform"
Escherichia coli, E. Coli; of the family Enterobacteriaceae; bacteria naturally abundant in the lower intestine of humans and other warm-blooded animals, but rare in unpolluted waters.
A portion of the coliform bacteria group originating in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals that pass into the environment as feces. Fecal coliform often is used as an indicator of the bacteriological safety of a domestic water supply.
Bacteria from excrement, fecal coliform are not necessarily harmful by themselves, but are indicative of the presence of other disease-causing organisms that may cause diarrhea, vomiting, or a more serious illness.