Chlorophyll Measurements Overview

Welcome to Turner Designs Introduction to in vivo chlorophyll measurements using fluorometers. This information will assist you to determine which fluorometer is best for your needs. In addition, you will learn the recommended procedures for measuring in vivo (non extracted) chlorophyll and how external factors can influence your measurement results.

Fluorometers estimate the biomass of living algae and photosynthetic bacteria in water through detecting the level of chlorophyll a fluorescence contained within the living cells. .

In vivo measurements are semi quantitative in nature. The Understanding the Data section describes how to interpret your measured data, and optimize your readings for the most accurate estimation of algal biomass.

If you are new to fluorometers and using them for chlorophyll measurements, check out the Key Fluorometer Definitions section for some common use terms.

Documumentation of environmental parameters ,as well as sampling data, is critical for accurate measurements because there are so many variables that can effect the in vivo data. A sample worksheet is provided as a template which can be modified for your specific needs, see Algal Biomass Monitoring Worksheet.

Turner Designs has a family of fluorometers so you can choose the best instrument for your application. Models include battery operated handhelds, submersible, bench-top, field and on-line instruments, see our Product Selection Guide for more details.

Solid Secondary Standards for Chlorophyll Calibration

Calibrating your fluorometer will ensure instrument consistency and reliability for reading chlorophyll samples. Turner Designs provides special calibration Secondary Standards that simplify and expedite fluorometer calibration . Use the calibration video links on the left side of this page to see how Turner Designs fluorometer calibration procedures are easily and quickly performed.