Rapid detection of coliforms by amplification of lacZ and uidA genes in a multiplex PCR reaction was designed and performed in comparison with most probably method for 16 artificial and 101 field samples. The molecular method was also ncuonmdbuecrt e(Md PoNn) imsoeltahtoedd cceorltiiffoircmatse dfr oremfe preonsicteiv me aMtePrNi asla; mispolleast;e ds tastnrdaainrds fsraommp clee rftoifri cvaetreifdi craetfieorne nocf em micartoebriiaall aonpedr asttiaonnd tairmde b.acteria