What type of sample bottle is preferred for microbial testing in water quality?

The preferred choice for microbial testing in water quality is disposable sterile bottles. These bottles are specifically designed to avoid contamination, which is crucial when testing for microorganisms in water. Sterility ensures that no external microbes interfere with the results, providing accurate data about the water's microbiological quality.

Using disposable sterile bottles minimizes the risk of contamination that can come from reusable containers or improperly cleaned bottles. The design of these disposable bottles also typically facilitates easy collection, transport, and analysis without the need for additional sterilization processes. This gives them a clear advantage in maintaining the integrity of the sample.

The choice of material, such as glass or plastic, while relevant in other contexts, is less critical than ensuring that the bottle is sterile and single-use. Therefore, the emphasis on disposability and sterility makes disposable sterile bottles the most appropriate option for microbial testing in water quality.