Abstract

The objective of this study was seen in water for irrigation and human consumption, the presence or absence of Escherichia coli from microbiological kit, detecting virulence genes (stx1, stx2 and eae) in six points of water samples from a stream belonging to the farm of the State of São Paulo Zoological Park. Escherichia coli was determined by microbiological test for the determination of fecal coliforms by membrane filter technique. The presence of virulence genes (stx1, stx2 and eae gene) was performed by PCR using metagenomic DNA samples. It was observed the presence of Escherichia coli in the first two sampling points. It is suggested that this fact can be explained by the organic compound that is used in the garden process or the presence of animals close to the above points. However, it is possible to infer, by PCR, that it is not pathogenic enterobacteria, meaning that the water method is being used for irrigation and supply for human consumption is in great condition for such use.