Canadian Crustacean Zooplankton Identification
LEB Aquatic provides specialized crustacean zooplankton taxonomic services for freshwater samples, following the high-quality standards and protocols established by Ontario's Ministry of Environment (MOE) Dorset Environmental Science Centre (Dorset Protocol pg. 74-77).
Our Core Services
Dorset Enumeration Protocol: We utilize the Dorset Protocol as our primary standard for precision counting and measurement.
- Strategic Counting: We target a minimum of 250 animals per sample, ensuring that no single dominant species exceeds 20% of the total count.
- Specific Taxa Targets: Each count includes 15–35 nauplii and 15–35 copepodids for both Cyclopoida and Calanoida. The remaining number of individuals is divided among adult Copepoda and Cladocera. Count and measure 45-60 individuals for a dominant species in a subsample.
- Supplemental Observations: Identify and enumerate any zebra mussel veligers, Chaoborus and Bythotrephes in subsample.
- Detailed Measurements: Every individual included in the enumeration is measured to provide robust size data.
- Comprehensive Level of Identification: Cladocera and adult Copepoda are identified to the species level (with specific exceptions for certain genera), while immature stages are identified to the order or genus level.
Biomass Estimation: We provide accurate biomass assessments using the Plankton Counting Tool developed by the Shelley Arnott Lab at Queens University.
- Digital Accuracy: Total body lengths are captured via digital calipers and automatically translated into weights.
- Standardized Regressions: Weights are calculated based on established length-weight regressions specifically for formalin-preserved samples (OMOE's length-weight regressions pg 84).
Zooplankton Community Metrics: We deliver a suite of ecological metrics to help you interpret community health and structure, including:
- Community Size Metrics: Mean size, size diversity, and size spectrum slope.
- Ecological Indicators: Species diversity, evenness.
High-Resolution Imaging: Every project includes a set of high-quality, digital color images of the species and genera encountered during processing at no extra cost. We use a Leica M205C stereomicroscope and Leica MC170 HD camera to ensure optimal resolution for all taxonomic verifications.