The premise behind BST is that DNA fingerprinting and other molecular targets can identify bacterial strains specific to each animal species. Each species has different diets and digestive system conditions that select for distinct strains of bacteria. This distinction allows the original source of the fecal contamination to be identified.
Numerous BST methods are available. Based on a multi-year study initiated in 2002, Texas selected the two-method approach using ERIC-PCR and RiboPrinting, as this approach was found to be the most accurate and cost-effective. Because it provides a direct link with water quality standards, E. coli is used as the target bacteria. Using these methods required development of a DNA fingerprint library.
The science of BST is evolving rapidly and new approaches and techniques are continually being evaluated and developed. As new approaches prove useful, they will be incorporated to our efforts to the extent possible. The current Texas E. coli BST Library will also continue to be evaluated and refined to improve the utility of this resource.
