chapter 1 Microbial water quality -- chapter 2 Indicator organisms and the coliform concept -- chapter 3 Evaluation of standard methods for the enumeration of coliforms from drinking waters -- chapter 4 Alternative techniques for the isolation and enumeration of coliforms and E. coli from drinking water -- chapter 5 Alternative indicator systems for water quality analysis -- chapter 6 The significance of emerging pathogens on water quality assessment -- chapter 7 The future of the coliform index in water analysis.