Applications Of Optical Plankton Counter (OPC) And Image Analysis Technology In Zooplankton Samples Estimation

This paper deals with a new zooplankton analysis system combined with OPC (Optical Plankton Counter) and the image analysis system. It is a preserved net-sampled zooplankton optical processing system which can get the information of biomass and size distribution.Traditional microscopic analysis of preserved samples usually involves sub-sampling, counting, and sorting large numbers of individuals into taxonomic groups. Such activities are generally time-consuming, result in a long lag between sample-collection and data analysis. Moreover, well-trained human experts are required in samples processing for frequently distinguishing subtle and reliable specific morphological features. Attempts to accelerate processing by extending the amount of time spent working with a microscope can lead to fatigue and increased error rates, the enumeration of zooplankton samples remains a labor-intensive endeavor. Nowadays, the large-scale (spatial and temporal)marine ecological research requires more effective methods in zooplankton sample-processing. The widespread use of image analyzers and optical counters in biological oceanography provides us a good option.This system is composed of two parts: the OPC estimating system and the image analysis system. OPC estimating system counts and measures the zooplankton samples, which gives us the abundance and the size spectrum, while the categorization of species depends on the image analysis system. The samples'images were caught by digital cameras unaided or connected to the microscope, then processed with image analysis software. Based on the taxa information extracted from the samples'images, we can identify the samples measured by the OPC or even estimate their biomass(with conversion factors). This system is able to produce accurate estimation of the abundance, constitution and size spectrum rapidly, and keep the samples intact for the subsequent research.