[Induction of a microbial colonization of the walls of copper pipes through which drinking water flows].

Bacterial colonization developed within one month on the surface of a copper pipe used for the transport of drinking water. No severe signs of corrosion could be detected within six weeks. Dividing cells and the formation of microcolonies indicated active metabolism and multiplication of the bacteria and not only a more or less passive adsorption on the copper from the bulk phase.