Envilab: Measuring phytoplankton in-vivo absorption and scattering properties under tunable environmental conditions

Opt Express. 2017 Oct 16;25(21):25267-25277. doi: 10.1364/OE.25.025267.

Abstract

Optical remote sensing of phytoplankton draws on distinctive spectral features which can vary with both species and environmental conditions. Here, we present a set-up (Envilab) for growing phytoplankton under well-defined light, temperature and nutrient conditions. The custom-built light source enables creation of light with spectral composition similar to natural aquatic environments. Spectral tuning allows for light quality studies. Attenuation is monitored with a spectrometer in transmission mode. In combination with automated spectrophotometer and fluorimeter measurements, absorption and excitation-emission-fluorescence spectra are recorded. The set-up opens the door for systematic studies on phytoplankton optical properties and physiology.

MeSH terms

  • Aquaculture / methods
  • Bioreactors
  • Ecosystem
  • Environment, Controlled*
  • Equipment Design
  • Light*
  • Nutritional Requirements
  • Phytoplankton / growth & development*
  • Remote Sensing Technology / instrumentation
  • Remote Sensing Technology / methods*
  • Spectrophotometry / instrumentation
  • Spectrophotometry / methods
  • Temperature