Steven Weyrauch, Eckerd College

Class Year:

2024

Mentor:

Mike Sieracki, Ph.D.

Abstract:

The increasing impact of eutrophication and climate change on phytoplankton populations poses significant ecological risks, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay where harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a growing concern. This study leverages the advanced imaging capabilities of the PlanktoScope to monitor and classify plankton populations in the Choptank River. By developing a comprehensive annotated image library on EcoTaxa, this research enhances the identification and tracking of HABs, contributing to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' efforts to mitigate these blooms. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for data collection and analysis have been established to ensure consistent and scalable monitoring efforts. The study demonstrated the efficacy of the PlanktoScope in capturing and analyzing phytoplankton images in real-time, enabling early detection of HABs. Notably, a significant increase in diatom populations following a rainstorm indicated the device's capability to track ecological changes and predict potential HABs. The integration of citizen science through the PlanktoScope, alongside the creation of a publicly accessible Chesapeake Bay HAB Atlas, supports better ecosystem management and public health strategies. Continued data collection and the development of machine learning models to classify plankton images will further refine these monitoring efforts, ultimately contributing to the protection of aquatic environments and the communities that depend on them.

Location:

Horn Point Laboratory