Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Keywords

Candida, Escherichia coli, wastewater, water contamination marker, co-occurrence, Kadiwa River

Abstract

This study investigated the co-occurrence of Candida spp. and Escherichia coli in wastewater from the Kadiwa River in Dasmariñas, Cavite, to explore potential implications for water quality and public health. A total of 27 samples were collected from upstream, midstream, and downstream points and analyzed using membrane filtration, culture methods, and biochemical testing. Candida spp. were identified through germ tube testing and carbohydrate fermentation, while E. coli was detected using MacConkey and EMB agar, followed by confirmatory biochemical tests. Several non-Candida albicans species were isolated, including C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. kefyr, C. lusitaniae, and C. krusei, with notable variation across the sampling sites. While both non-Candida albicans spp. and E. coli were frequently found in the same samples, statistical analysis did not show a significant correlation between their presence. This suggests that, despite their coexistence in the same environment, there is no strong evidence to support a positive co-occurrence between the two. The findings highlight the complex nature of microbial interactions in wastewater and underscore the importance of monitoring multiple indicators when assessing environmental and public health risks. The study calls attention to the need for improved sanitation practices and sustained water quality surveillance to mitigate potential threats from microbial contaminants.

First Advisor

Roel Jr. Guinto, RMT, MSMT

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