Real-Time microbial concentrations by automated on-line flow cytometry for marine coastal monitoring

Casotti Raffaella, Balestra Cecilia, Van Dijk Mark, Passarelli Augusto, Sigrist Jürg, Hammes Frederik

Abstract

Marine microbes are ubiquitous and play a fundamental role in shaping the oceans as we know them, through key processes such as photosynthesis and biogeochemical cycles. Their monitoring requires sampling at the correct time and space, since they show high turnover rates and patchy distributions. We have used two on-line flow cytometry systems to monitor marine microbes in the coastal area of the Gulf of Naples, as a proof-of-concept that this technology can represent a useful tool for real-time alert systems of water biological quality. Bacterial and picophytoplankton concentrations are proposed as general indicators of water quality, the first step necessary to assess the effects of changes in environmental conditions, to be followed by in-depth analyses of community composition for presence of pathogens or other indicators. During the survey we could detect hotspots of high bacterial concentrations located in areas of discharges of untreated urban wastes or subject to riverine inputs. In general, bacterial abundances were inversely correlated to salinity, suggesting that they use organic matter of terrestrial origin for their growth. The technological approach used represents a useful and fast method to monitor coastal areas also in the context of the European Directive 2008/56/EC, aimed at assessing and improving European marine waters quality.

Download

IMEKO-TC19-METROSEA-2017-10.pdf

DOI

-

IMEKO TC

TC19 - Environmental Measurements

Back to the proceedings