Evolution Biodiversity Laboratory BIL 161 Project I Biodiversity

Evolution & Biodiversity Laboratory BIL 161 Project I: Biodiversity Observing and Identifying Aquatic Microorganisms

Activity: Observing and Identifying Microorganisms Today we will observe aquatic microorganisms from “Mystery Mix” culture Locally sourced pond water

Materials Obtain a concavity slide from the source at your lab table. DO NOT DISCARD CONCAVITY SLIDES!!

Identifying Microorganisms Start with the “Mystery Mix” Place 2 -3 drops of liquid from the source into the concavity on your slide Drop a coverslip onto the concavity, sealing the liquid A drop of methyl cellulose placed at the edge of the coverslip will help slow down fast-moving organisms

Identifying Microorganisms Move your slide until you are viewing one corner. To view the entire slide field, slowly move from one side to the other When you reach the end, move down the next “row” and work backwards. Repeat until you have viewed the entire area under the coverslip.

Identifying Microorganisms Identification Resources: Online lab manual Identification Guide Lab manual has links to videos and image galleries. Laminated identification cards at lab stations Hard copy identification guides on lab tables

When finished… Discard in sharps container: Flat slides Coverslips Wash, dry and replace in box: Concavity slides

When finished… Discard all trash and debris properly Properly stow your microscope Wipe up any spills at your station Teams leaving a messy station will be docked 5 points per team member.

Questions?