True or False: The presence of fecal coliform in a water sample indicates contamination from warm-blooded animals.

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Study for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class D Water Operator License Exam. Access flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and get ready for the exam!

The presence of fecal coliform bacteria in a water sample is a significant indicator of contamination, and it typically signals that the water has been affected by fecal matter, particularly from warm-blooded animals. Fecal coliform is a group of bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans, and their presence in water suggests that pathogens which can cause disease might also be present.

This is critical for assessing water quality, especially in drinking water supplies, recreational waters, and other freshwater ecosystems. When fecal coliform is detected, it creates the need for further testing and potential remediation to ensure the safety and quality of the water body in question.

Other options introduce unnecessary complexities or limitations that aren't supported by the definitions or understandings of fecal coliform indicators. The unequivocal assertion that fecal coliform indicates contamination from warm-blooded animals is supported by microbiological studies and guidelines established for water quality.