Cyanobacteria have the potential to produce harmful toxins which can cause adverse health effects in humans and animals. Monitoring tools are needed to assess environmental conditions and stop blooms in their nascent stages. This workshop will provide a comprehensive introduction to integrated harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring, from the reservoir to the lab. Participants will gain practical skills in the use of three early-detection HAB screening systems that provide different and complementary information: an online multi-parameter measuring & reporting system, an automated flow imaging microscope and a quantitative PCR assay. The workshop will begin with introductions and a brief power point overview of each technology. If possible, we will include a 30-minute presentation from a guest speaker using all three technologies - this is somewhat location and budget dependent. Next, we'll turn to the instruments and provide a hands-on demonstration using live samples (where possible) so that attendees can compare the information provided by each method.
Samples of cyanobacteria in various concentrations will be analyzed to illustrate the hardware and software of the AlgaeTracker. Participants will learn how to calibrate field data to lab results and verify the accuracy of live readings obtained from samples. Throughout the workshop, attention will be given to potential challenges of fluorescence-based readings, with discussion focusing on potential and actual solutions. Tips for easy field deployment, maintenance, and data sharing will be discussed with group participation encouraged.
We will discuss variables like sampling methodology, preservation, location, and settings on FlowCam imagery and data. We will use the instruments software to identify dominant organisms in the sample and create libraries and filters. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions regarding the technology's benefits and limitations. Throughout the workshop, we'll point out similarities and differences between flow-through imaging and traditional microscopy, as well as basic plankton identification using semi-automated techniques.
Using the same technology for testing for Covid, workshop attendees will learn how to run a quantitative PCR test. The Phytoxigene™ CyanoDTec is a molecular (DNA) based technology (Real Time PCR) that detects and quantifies the presence of Cyanobacteria, blue green algae, and their toxin producing genes in aquatic environments. Not all Cyanobacteria species produce toxins, therefore the presence of an algal bloom does not immediately defer a risk of toxins being present. The Phytoxigene™ test quantitates both the amount of overall Cyanobacteria present in a water sample along with the number of genes that are responsible for the production of the toxins, including microcystin, cylindrospermopsin, saxitoxin, anatoxin* and guanotoxin* (*new assay in 2023)
Presenters Polly Barrowman (Yokogawa Fluid Imaging Technology): works closely with freshwater researchers and drinking water utilities worldwide, helping them to implement FlowCam technology into their phytoplankton research and monitoring programs. Polly has a Masters in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. Christopher Lee (Aqua Real Time): co-founder and CEO of AquaRealTime. Chris has a PhD in Electrical Engineering and 15 years of experience developing new monitoring products in the water and algae monitoring space. Greg Ford (Phytoxigene): Director of Development for Phytoxigene. Greg works with customers in Canada and the USA in this capacity since 2016. He started in the field of Aquatic Toxicology before working in biotech and diagnostics before joining Phytoxigene.
Polly Barrowman (Yokogawa Fluid Imaging Technology): works closely with freshwater researchers and drinking water utilities worldwide, helping them to implement FlowCam technology into their phytoplankton research and monitoring programs. Polly has a Masters in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.
Christopher Lee (Aqua Real Time): co-founder and CEO of AquaRealTime. Chris has a PhD in Electrical Engineering and 15 years of experience developing new monitoring products in the water and algae monitoring space.
Greg Ford (Phytoxigene): Director of Development for Phytoxigene. Greg works with customers in Canada and the USA in this capacity since 2016. He started in the field of Aquatic Toxicology before working in biotech and diagnostics before joining Phytoxigene.