Purpose

Biovolume is commonly used as a size descriptor in the study of phytoplankton ecology. Usually, biovolume is not measured directly but is obtained from a standardized set of geometric models based on linear dimensions measured by light microscopy. This commonly used method allows visualization and measurement in two dimensions (2D) yielding no information at all on the third dimension of phytoplankton cells.

Inaccurate biovolume assessment resulting from geometric approximation leads to erroneous interpretation of eco-physiological processes and morpho-functional traits. One of the purpose in this project was to develop a new methodology based on the use confocal microscopy coupled with an image analysis system (NIS Elements AR software, Nikon) to determine directly shape and biovolume by means a 3D reconstruction of phytoplankton organisms.

Staff

• L. Roselli, Temporary researcher fellow
• E. Stanca, Post-doc
• A. Mastrolia, PhD Student
• A. Seviroli, Msc Student