Survival of Enteric Organisms in Sea Water: A Review of the Literature

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Abstract
A review of the survival of enteric organisms in sea water is presented. Enteric organisms can create a health hazard in estuaries, bays, and especially beaches. The rate of disappearance of fecal bacteria is greater than that expected from dilution alone. Destructive factors implicated include: production by marine bacteria of unidentified, heat labile antibiotic substances; adsorption and sedimentation; predation; and competition for limited food supply. The net result is a partial or complete disinfection of sea water. This natural bacterial destruction should not be relied upon to protect users of sea water.