Best Practices for Optimization of Phytoplankton Analysis in Natural Waters Using CytoSense Flow Cytometers

Area of Science:

• Marine biology
• Oceanography
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Flow cytometry is increasingly used for phytoplankton research, generating large datasets.
• Automated systems offer higher spatial and temporal resolution for phytoplankton studies.
• Standardized data acquisition and quality control are crucial for sharing and comparing phytoplankton datasets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize flow cytometry protocols for resolving the entire phytoplankton size spectrum.
• To establish a framework for using CytoSense-type flow cytometers in natural waters.
• To enhance the reliability and resolution of phytoplankton sample acquisition.

Main Methods:

• Focused on CytoSense-type flow cytometers and their optical pulse shape recording.
• Investigated coincidence, PMT voltage, and trigger threshold optimization.
• Utilized datasets from three instruments across two contrasting coastal marine waters.

Main Results:

• Identified key parameters for optimizing phytoplankton resolution across size ranges.
• Demonstrated the framework's applicability using real-world datasets.
• Provided insights into quality control procedures for flow cytometry data.

Conclusions:

• A standardized framework can improve phytoplankton resolution and data reliability.
• Optimized flow cytometry protocols enhance the study of phytoplankton dynamics.
• This work supports the broader application of autonomous flow cytometry in marine science.