What is routinely monitored in waters suitable for drinking and shellfish rearing?

The microbiological quality of waters suitable for drinking and shellfish rearing is crucial for ensuring safety and public health. This monitoring focuses on the presence of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can pose significant health risks if consumed. Drinking water needs to be free from harmful microorganisms to prevent diseases, and shellfish, which are filter feeders, can accumulate these pathogens from contaminated waters, leading to illness in humans when consumed.

While chemical contaminants, physical appearance, and temperature are important parameters for evaluating water quality, they do not specifically address the immediate health risks associated with microbial contamination. For instance, temperature can affect the growth rates of microorganisms but does not itself indicate their presence or quantity. Similarly, assessing physical appearance can provide clues about water clarity or potential pollution, but it does not substitute for direct examination of microbiological quality. Consequently, routine monitoring of microbiological aspects is essential for protecting human health in these contexts.