**Core Concept**
The question is testing the knowledge of indicators for fecal contamination in water, which is a critical aspect of water quality assessment. Fecal coliforms are a group of bacteria that are commonly used as indicators of recent fecal contamination in water.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is based on the fact that fecal coliforms, specifically Escherichia coli (E. coli), are a subgroup of coliform bacteria that are primarily found in the feces of warm-blooded animals. They are used as an indicator of recent fecal contamination because they are relatively easy to detect and their presence in water is often a sign of recent contamination. E. coli is a specific type of fecal coliform that is commonly used as an indicator of fecal contamination in water.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Total coliforms are a broader group of bacteria that include fecal coliforms, but they are not as specific an indicator of recent fecal contamination. Total coliforms can include bacteria that are not necessarily of fecal origin.
* **Option B:** Fecal streptococci are another group of bacteria that are used as indicators of fecal contamination, but they are not as commonly used as fecal coliforms.
* **Option D:** Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a type of bacteria that is not typically used as an indicator of fecal contamination.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A classic exam trap is to confuse total coliforms with fecal coliforms. Remember that total coliforms are a broader group that includes fecal coliforms, but they are not as specific an indicator of recent fecal contamination.

**Correct Answer: C. E. coli**