International Journal of Aquaculture, 2026, Vol.16, No.3, 156-165 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ija 159 The reductions in Total Coliform counts were highly significant across depuration intervals (F = 27.3, p < 0.01), with the most pronounced effects observed within the first 48 hours. Figure 1 THB reduction in Villorita cyprinoides during closed water depuration with a sponge filter Figure 2 TC reduction in V. cyprinoides during closed water depuration with a sponge filter 2.2.3 Reduction in Faecal Coliform (FC) count in Villorita cyprinoides The initial Faecal Coliform (FC) concentration in naturally contaminated Villorita cyprinoides from the Cochin Estuary was recorded at 1.5 × 10⁴ MPN/100 mL (4.17 logs), aligning only with Class C shellfish growing area standards under EU regulations. After 48 hours, FC levels decreased to 230 MPN/100 mL (2.36 logs), and by 72 hours, a total removal rate of 98.45% (1.82 logs) was attained, which falls in the acceptable FC regulatory limits of
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