Flow Imaging Microscopy in the Plankton Analysis Toolbox: Integrating FlowCam into Diverse Analytical Workflows

Plankton are central to the function of aquatic ecosystems, and documenting their diversity, abundance, size structure, morphology, and spatial distribution is essential for understanding ecosystem changes. No single method can capture all of these parameters; instead, researchers integrate complementary approaches to address complex ecological questions. Flow Imaging Microscopy (FIM) offers a valuable addition to this toolbox, generating high-resolution particle images alongside quantitative data on concentration, size, and shape. During the webinar, Daniela will share her expertise on the fundamental operating principles of flow imaging microscopy via FlowCam. She will present practical considerations for its application and illustrate its role in multi-method workflows through case examples.

Participants will:

1. Learn the basic operating principles of FlowCam,

2. Understand a framework to evaluate if/how FIM can expedite their existing workflow,

3. Explore reference examples of how FIM has been implemented successfully in marine and freshwater research programs.

By situating FIM within a broader suite of analytical techniques, we highlight its capacity to bridge morphological datasets with other analytical tools, improving taxonomic resolution and enabling more comprehensive plankton analysis. Speaker: Daniela Sturm, PhD, Field Applications Scientist, Yokogawa Fluid Imaging Technologies, Inc. With a PhD in Marine Microbial Ecology, specializing in protist ecophysiology and biogeography, Daniela has worked in research labs and instrumentation companies before joining the FlowCam team. She's passionate about the intersection of science and technology, and how tools like FlowCam can facilitate and accelerate aquatic research and monitoring. Register even if you can't attend live, and you'll receive a copy of the recording.