Using high resolution Fluorescence imaging to examine the photosynthetic efficiencies of individual cells within a biofilm.

Neil Baker and Kevin Oxborough at Essex University have pioneered a technique that enables the Fluorescence parameters (qP and FvÕ/FmÕ) of individual microphytobenthic cells to be calculated. The system incorporates a Fluorescence microscope and a peltier cooled CCD camera. The system is unique in being able to image fluorescence parameters at low steady state irradiance and with high resolution.

The non-intrusive technique was initially developed for higher plants but has been modified to allow the user to look at individual cells within intact microphytobenthic biofilms. This allows the individual photosynthetic efficiency of each cell to be calculated and related to overall biofilm productivity. It is essential to consider the role of different microphytobenthic groups, especially because the taxonomic compositions of biofilms vary annually, and may also change as a consequence of global warming.