Bacteriological Quality Status of Spring Waters from the Taanzoult Plain (Aguelmam Sidi Ali Wetland, Morocco)

Abstract

The Taanzoult plain of Aguelmam Sidi Ali wetland contains several permanent springs of water. They are intended for watering livestock, supplying drinking water and hydrotherapy. Nevertheless, the water consumption from sources in the raw state, without any pre-treatment or hygienic measures, certainly threatens the health of humans and particularly that of traditional medicine patients. From this perspective, the present work is based on a monthly monitoring of eight bacterial germs in the waters of four sources (Aghbalou Aberchane, Aghbalou Dkhiss, Aghbalou Akjdate and forestry post) during a hydrobiological cycle of 12 months from January to December 2017. The results of analyses have shown that bacterial contamination is significant at the water sources, used mainly for watering livestock, compared to those dedicated to drinking and hydrotherapy. The mean content of total coliforms and fecal coliforms at all the stations are higher than the Moroccan standards for surface water intended for the drinking water production. Except for the wet period for Aghbalou Aberchane and Aghbalou Dkhiss waters, the value of the bacterial parameters studied are higher than the Moroccan standards. In general, the anarchic frequentation of the area negatively influences the water quality and compromises its potability. Consequently, it directly threatens the health of users and hydrotherapy patients, especially during the dry season. These findings could call on the health authorities and the competent authorities responsible for controlling the quality of surface water to make users aware of the health risks and provide for appropriate arrangements to improve the quality of the widely sought-after natural waters.