Complexing of copper in drinking water samples to enhance recovery of Aeromonas and other bacteria

Abstract
The presence of copper in drinking water samples at concentrations as low as 10 μg/l resulted in a rapid die‐off of aeromonads. Coliform bacteria, heterotrophic plate count bacteria and faecal streptococci were also sensitive to copper but to a lesser degree than aeromonads. The effect was particularly noticeable in soft water (2EDTA) and keeping the samples on melting ice.