A novel in situ, submersible holographic imaging system for particle and plankton characterization.
About
Holographic microscopy has emerged as a tool for in situ imaging of microscopic organisms and other particles in the marine environment. It is appealing due to the relatively large undisturbed sampling volume and simplified optical configuration compared to other imaging systems. Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a novel in situ, submersible holographic imaging system for particle and plankton characterization. The system consists of a computer controlled, high-resolution digital camera and nanosecond pulsed laser. It can be operated in a lens-less configuration or with a microscope objective and is capable of viewing particles ranging from 10 μm - 3.5 cm in size. Sample volume can be varied from ~1 - 100 mL depending on the configuration.
Key Benefits
Reliable - Improves accuracy in micro-marine life research Sustainable - Minimally invasive to marine life during deployment Quantifiable - Enables basis for environmental and biological impact quantification
Applications
Zooplankton research Phytoplankton research Diatom research