| Legionella is a fastidious organism, meaning it has specific growth requirements that need to be met in order for it to survive and grow. Some of these growth requirements are: 1. Temperature above 68° F 2. Iron 3. L Cysteine 4. Biofilm (particularly protozoans) Unlike some other bacteria, it can survive at lower dissolved oxygen levels and is somewhat resistant to chlorine disinfection. Particular copper and silver ion concentrations can kill the bacterium. Certain plastics and organics can provide nutrients for growth. These attributes make our modern day plumbing systems a good habitat for the organism. |