Isolation and Genus identification of bacteria from urine contaminated soils of Windhoek

Abstract

Public urination is a common sight in the vicinity of drinking establishments in Katutura, as well as other open spaces around Windhoek. A study was conducted to determine if there was a shift in the balance of the microflora in urine contaminated soils. It was hypothesized that, given soils from the same geographic region but under distinct urine conditions, the identity and counts of the pathogenic and actinobacteria communities would vary. For the purpose of this study, pathogenic microorganisms were limited to those known to cause infections of the urinary tract. Soil samples from 4 contaminated locations (Ara-Dorado, Hakahana, Eveline and Greenwell Matongo suburbs) and controls were qualitatively tested for urease activity. Selective media was used for the isolation and enumeration of pathogenic and beneficial actinobacterial colonies. Dorado showed the greatest extend of urease activity>>>Hakahana and Eveline>>Green well matongo. There is a significant difference between the colony counts at a contaminated and non-contaminated (control) site, p = 0.019(= 0.05). The results indicated that public urination introduces pathogenic bacteria, causing a shift in the balance of the normal flora.