The drinking water distribution network: a complex ecosystem related to public health issues
The emergence of pathogens in water intended for human consumption is a major concern in terms of the public health industry and the public authorities concerned. Among these pathogens, some are of faecal origin (Cryptosporidium, Campylobacter, or rotavirus), while others live in the natural environment (Legionella, Pseudomonas, Aeromonas or mycobacteria). In order to establish a risk analysis related to the presence of these pathogens, it is important to increase our knowledge on the ecology of these microorganisms and to develop analytical tools to achieve better health monitoring. Therefore, the microbial ecology of drinking water distribution networks must be studied in detail, especially with respect to the properties and physiological diversity of the microbial species present, in order to better understand the interactions between species commonly encountered and those that are pathogens.