Iron Bacteria - Possible Indicators

Possible Indicators

Clues which indicate that iron bacteria may be present in well water:

• Iron bacteria often produce unpleasant tastes and odors commonly reported as
  • swampy
  • oily or petroleum
  • cucumber
  • sewage
  • rotten vegetation
  • musty

The taste or odor may be more noticeable after the water has not been used for some time.

• Iron bacteria will usually cause yellow, orange, red, or brown stains and colored water
• It is sometimes possible to see a rainbow colored, oil-like sheen on the water.
• Iron bacteria produce a sticky slime which is typically rusty in color, but may be yellow, brown, or grey.
• A feathery or filamentous growth may also be seen, particularly in standing water such as a toilet tank.

The dramatic effects of iron bacteria are seen in surface waters as brown slimy masses on stream bottoms and lakeshores or as an oily sheen upon the water. More serious problems occur when bacteria build up in well systems. Iron bacteria in wells do not cause health problems, but they can reduce well yields by clogging screens and pipes.