Use of the indirect immunofluorescence method for detection and enumeration of Escherichia coli in seawater samples

The determination of Escherichia coli in marine waters through a rapid method, the microscopic indirect immunofluorescent technique, is evaluated in comparison with the conventional count on m-FC agar medium. The data obtained in seawater samples, collected monthly along the Messina coastline, show good sensitivity of the analysis and agreement between the microscopic and culture technique, with a detection limit of 102 cells 100 ml-1 for immunofluorescence.