Seasonal Variations in Microbial Quality of Recreational Beaches of Vlora Bay, Albania

Seasonal Variations in Microbial Quality of Recreational Beaches of Vlora Bay, Albania

A total of 5 sampling points along Vlora Bay beaches (Radhimë, Plazhi i Ri, Akademia e Marinës, Plazhi i Vjetër, Kabinat, Nartë) were selected and monitored during the summer and the autumn of 2014. Seawater samples were evaluated for faecal coliforms (FC) and faecal streptococci (FS). Statistical analysis of the results demonstrated higher concentrations of faecal coliforms and faecal streptococci during summer. Akademia e Marinës beach had the highest incidence of faecal indicators  (FC and FS), respectively 100% of samples, followed by Plazhi i Ri (62.5% and 75%), while at Radhimë, Plazhi i Vjetër, Kabinat and Nartë there was not any faecal contamination. Climate changes have led to the extended beach season until autumn. The high concentration of faecal indicators during summer and autumn in some of monitored beaches indicates that monitoring should be performed during the whole season, in order to protect bathers health.

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