Multiple Tube Fermentation Method

Membrane Filter Method

Slower: requires 48 hours for a positive or presumptive positive

More rapid: quantitative results in about 18 hours

More labour intensive

Less labour intensive

Requires more culture medium

Requires less culture medium

Requires more glassware

Requires less glassware

More sensitive

Less sensitive

Low precision

High precision

Difficult to use in the field

Can be adapted for field use

Applicable to all types of water

Not applicable to turbid waters

Consumables readily available in most Countries

Cost of consumables is high in many Countries

May give better recovery of stressed or damaged organisms