Gram-positive bacteria, natural inhabitants of gastrointestinal tracts of mammals. Widely used as standard fecal indicator bacteria (SFIB) in water quality monitoring. Presence signals fecal contamination and potential enteric pathogens.
23S rRNA gene region
- Highly conserved ribosomal RNA gene.
- Used as a multi-species genetic target for detecting Enterococcus in environmental waters.
- Targeted by USEPA Method 1611 qPCR assay.
- Allows detection of broad range of Enterococcus species, not just one, improving sensitivity for diverse fecal sources.
Why it matters:
Enables molecular methods (qPCR/LAMP) to replace or supplement culture-based detection, offering faster, specific, and sensitive monitoring of fecal pollution in water.
