Phytoplankton samples were collected on May 31, 2023 at Bullock Reach and analyzed in the laboratory shortly after collection. Sondes data revealed the surface water temperature was 18.11⁰C, salinity was 21.04 psu, and chlorophyll a was 4.88 ug/L. The plankton tow net sample was filterable with a 20 micron mesh. The filtrate was a light tan/brown color and had a quick filter time. The tow net sample was analyzed qualitatively for microorganisms using phase contrast microscopy. The whole water sample was analyzed quantitatively under 200x phase contrast microscopy. A Hensen Stempel pipette was used to accurately deliver 1ml of sample to a Sedge-wick Rafter chamber. This analysis revealed a total of 16,860,000 cells per Liter. The micro flagellates were found at 525,000 cells/L. The most predominant phytoplankton genus was Skeletonema spp. at 15,585,000 cells/L. These plankton were found in chains of 6 cells. Other representative genera include Guinardia spp., Chaetoceros spp., and Leptocylindrus spp.
200x phase contrast micrograph of Skeletonema spp.
