Abstract
The selectivity of fluorescence spectroscopy is exploited for the characterization of marine algae. Two-dimensional, digital images of in vivo fluorescence intensity versus excitation and emission wavelengths, called excitation-emission matrices (EEMs), are used as spectral "fingerprints" for marine phytoplankton populations. Fourier-transform-based pattern recognition is described along with its inherent strengths and weaknesses for the analysis of natural populations. The EEMs of unknown algae are compared to a library of standard EEMs representing 23 algal species and 6 classes with better than 80% accuracy. The EEMs acquired under different physiological conditions are used in determining pattern recognition reliability. The potential for fingerprinting mixed populations and oceanographic regions is also discussed.
Recommended Citation
Oldham, P. B., E. J. Zillioux, and I. M. Warner. 1985. "Spectral "fingerprinting" of phytoplankton populations by two-dimensional fluorescence and Fourier-transform-based pattern recognition." Journal of Marine Research 43, (4). https://elischolar.library.yale.edu/journal_of_marine_research/1802