ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the bacteriological and physicochemical properties of Obuhu Stream Water in Amachara, Umuahia, Abia state. The study specifically examined the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of Obuhu Stream Water. The isolated bacteria were identified using colonial characteristics, gram staining, motility test and biochemical tests. The cross match with existing information in the standard manual confirmed the isolates identified as Escherichia coil, Proteus spp, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The total bacteria counts of the three locations of the stream were 137 (1.37 X 105cfu), 173 (1.73 X 105cfu) and 116 (1.16 X X 1 05cfu) respectively. The physicochemical parameters of the stream such as conductivity, total dissolved solid, hardness, appearance, colour and odor remains 50s/cm, 500mg/i, 60mg/I, cloudy, brownish and rotten egg smell respectively while pH and temperature varied with locations 6.5, 29°C, 7.3, 32°C and 6.8, 30°C. it was recommended that there should be rigid monitoring programs that require numerous parameters to obtain accurate and timely information on the quality of surface water. As such, it is necessary to test the water quality of the tributaries and streams within Umuahia and its environs encompassing various physicochemical parameters and extending the sampling periods on a longer distance basis that would then provide a more insightful data in order to classify the fresh water bodies and also to formulate sound public policies for the watershed's protection, conservation, and sustainability.