Abstract
Phytoplankton monitoring is essential for better understanding and mitigation of phytoplankton bloom formation. We present a microfluidic cytometer with two imaging modalities for onsite detection and identification of phytoplankton: a lensless imaging mode for morphological features, and a fluorescence imaging mode for autofluorescence signal of phytoplankton. Both imaging modes are integrated in a microfluidic device with a field of view (FoV) of 3.7 mm × 2.4 mm and a depth of field (DoF) of 0.8 mm. The particles in the water flow channel can be detected and classified with automated image processing algorithms and machine learning models using their morphology and fluorescence features. The performance of the device was demonstrated by measuring Chlamydomonas, Euglena, and non-fluorescent beads in both separate and mixed flow samples. The recall rates for Chlamydomonas and Euglena ware 93.6% and 94.4%. The dual-modality imaging approach enabled observing both morphology and fluorescence features with a large DoF and FoV which contribute to high-throughput analysis. Moreover, this imaging flow cytometer platform is portable, low-cost, and shows potential in the onsite phytoplankton monitoring.
Highlights
Phytoplankton play a vital role in the aquatic ecosystem [1,2]
Some phytoplankton species produce toxins are harmful to both fish and humans [5]; algae bloom can result in oxygen depletion, killing fish and benthic organisms [6]
Conventional phytoplankton detection relies on its autofluorescence signatures and morphological features
Summary
Phytoplankton play a vital role in the aquatic ecosystem [1,2]. species composition, concentration, and distribution of phytoplankton change frequently while the drivers of these changes are not fully understood [3]. Conventional phytoplankton detection relies on its autofluorescence signatures and morphological features. Both methods are performed by laboratory instruments (e.g., fluorometers and microscopes) and require manual sampling handling [10,11,12]. Such approach is time-consuming and expensive due to the needs of manual steps by experienced technical staff. There is a pressing need for low-cost and efficient identification techniques that can detect the species composition and concentration of phytoplankton in situ
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call