Fecal coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans. They are used as indicators of water quality, particularly in assessing contamination by fecal matter. Their presence in water suggests that harmful pathogens may also be present, posing health risks to humans and animals. Testing for fecal coliforms is a standard practice in environmental monitoring, especially in drinking water and recreational water bodies. High levels of these bacteria can indicate pollution from sources such as sewage, agricultural runoff, or wildlife, prompting further investigation and potential remediation efforts.