The Prevalence of Bacteria Commonly Related to the Production of Mussels and Oysters in Saldanha Bay

Bivalve molluscs are a good source of high quality protein and perform important ecological functions. Their ability to bioaccumulate materials in their soft tissues makes them suitable aquatic species for biomonitoring environmental conditions. The discharge treated untreated sewage into the bivalve-growing areas is concern. aim this study was investigate prevalence bacterial microbiota shellfish farms Saldanha Bay harbour using pathogens commonly associated with shellfish-related foodborne disease outbreaks. Seawater mussel samples were collected from five sampling points located three locations. Oyster deck immediately after harvesting by farmers. most probable number (MPN) method used enumerate E. coli faecal coliforms. Cultural methods detection Salmonella Vibrio spp. concentrations 15 March 14 July <0.18 MPN/100 ml at all sites 25 August, except site SP2 (0.2 ml). Spikes observed on total MPN counts winter. not detected. However, other identified through phenotypic profile VITEK 2 system. Based low coli-MPN concentrations, concluded that safe human consumption. Further studies need be conducted identified.