Aquatic Biology

Phytoplankton ID

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when algae grow rapidly and cause harm to people and aquatic organisms due to overgrowth of the algae and the potential to produce toxins.

UFI has the capability to identify harmful algae and determining whether algal toxins are present within a water sample. The laboratory can also identify green algae, blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), diatoms, and cryptophytes.

Zooplankton ID

Zooplankton are small invertebrates that play a vital role in the food web of lakes and other water bodies. Zooplankton control the population of phytoplankton and also serve as a food source for young fish.

Our aquatic biologist uses a dissecting microscope to identify and count zooplankton samples.

Specialized Experiments 

If you have a specific experiment that you're in need of assistance with, contact the lab to see if we can help! 

UFI has done specialized experiments related to zebra/quagga mussel phosphorus uptake, zebra mussel nutrient composition, macrophyte nutrient composition and more!  

Tests marked as certified meet the rigorous standards set by the New York State Department of Health's Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP). Some tests may not carry ELAP certification simply because they are not covered under the program’s scope, but all analyses conducted by UFI adhere to high scientific and quality assurance standards to ensure reliable and accurate results. 

Questions about these tests?

Call our laboratory at 315-431-4962 ext. 116 or fill out our form today!