coliform bacteria

Group of gram-negative bacteria (most common being the escherichia coli or E. coli which can grow at elevated temperatures) found in the intestinal tract (therefore in the feces) of humans and other animals. These rod-shaped microorganisms aid in digestion and are largely harmless. If ingested through contaminated food or water, however, they may cause bacterial or viral gastroenteritis, Hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and associated problems.