Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacteria found in feces that can indicate harmful contaminants in water. It can survive in water for weeks and is a reliable indicator of fecal pollution in drinking water. Simple and fast detection techniques are available, with results typically reported within 24-48 hours. Monitoring E. coli levels is crucial for protecting public health from waterborne diseases. This bacteria's presence can help determine the quality of water sources and the potential risks associated with them.