Micr Aquarium - Building The Pride

15 Pages·2006·1.46 MB·English

M
i
c
r

In 13
s -
t 1
r 0
u 1
c 6
t
io A
n

M q
1
a 3
n u -1
u 0
a a 1
l 7
r
i
u
m
™
2 © R A D F E C C C O V G G B M C O T
2006 Carolina Biological Supply CompanyPrinted in USA elated Products From Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 dditional Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 iscovering Aquatic Life in Terrestrial Environments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 eeding Your Pond Water Microcosm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 stablishing a Pond Water Microcosm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 ulturing and Observing Fungi and Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ulturing, Observing, and Keeping Small Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 ulturing and Observing Protozoa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 ther Manipulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 iewing Tips and Observational Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 eneral Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 uidelines for Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 ackground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 aterials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 ontent Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 verview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 able of Contents MicroAquarium™ Instruction Manual
•Diversity and adaptations of organisms •Populations and ecosystems •Regulation and behavior •Reproduction and heredity •Structure and function in living systemsLife Science Grades 5–8 •Organisms and environments •Life cycles of organisms •Characteristics of organismsLife ScienceGrades K–4 addresses the following National Science Content Standards:The MicroAquarium™ is appropriate for students of any grade level and Content Standards desktop aquarium, the MicroAquarium™ is sure to provoke interest.the MicroAquarium™. Displayed as a classroom aquarium or as a personabiology curriculum can be conveniently cultured and/or maintained withinrevealed. Many of the classic “pond water” organisms studied in themicroscope or hand lens, the structural details of many organisms areParamecium) to be seen with the naked eye. Under a(e.g., single-celled backlighted microcosm which at arms length allows small organisms Macroscopically, living organisms are displayed within a thin, easilyappeal and is designed to double as a microscope slide wet mount.plants, animals, and fungi. This sturdy water chamber has macroscopicenvironments, and studying the natural history of cyanobacteria, protists,to-use tool for conducting experiments, investigating naturalmicroscope. Manipulated in simple yet unique ways, it is a versatile, easy-aquatic organisms within its chamber can be examined with or without aThe MicroAquarium™ is a slide-mount and culture vessel in one. Small Overview
3 l
4 uniquely adapted for microscope use. Due to the capillary retention ofsteady the hand lens at proper focal distance). The MicroAquarium™ ishand lens (the base of the MicroAquarium™ stand serves as a brace toenjoys a larger aquarium. A closer look at the contents is possible with awindowsill serves well for casual viewing and can be enjoyed just as oneA MicroAquarium™ supported by a stand and resting on a desk or microscope. Many others are macroscopic and visible to the naked eye.these organisms are microscopic and can be observed only with awill fit within a MicroAquarium™ is in the hundreds of thousands! Many ofopening. The number of different types of organisms or species known thataccept only those organisms thin or small enough to fit through its narrowremoved as needed. Due to the narrow opening (about 2 mm wide), it willwith any aquarium, food, water, and individual organisms can be added orsimilar to larger aquariums in that it is open across the top dimension. Asmultiple cultures in a small amount of space. The MicroAquarium™ iscapacity of ca. 5 mL. The small size is of great convenience in storingThe MicroAquarium™ is a 2- 3-inch (50 75 mm) water cell with a××Background .www.carolina.com334-5551, or visit the Carolina Biological Supply Company Web site atCarolina™ Sciencecatalog, call toll free 800-please refer to the most recent Supply Company (with the prefix, RN-). For pricing and other information,catalog item numbers of products available from Carolina BiologicalNote:For your convenience, we have listed throughout this manual the MicroAquarium™ Instruction ManualMicroAquarium™ Instruction Manual MicroAquarium™ stand10 MicroAquarium™ stands MicroAquarium™ lid10 MicroAquarium™ lids MicroAquarium™ chamber10 MicroAquarium™ chambers 13-1016 MicroAquarium™13-1017 MicroAquarium™ (pack of 10) Materials •Behavior of organisms •Matter, energy, and organization in living systems •Interdependence of organisms •The cellLife Science Grades 9–12
5 makes it relatively easy for one to observe and discover life history traits ofdiscovery. As a culture and observation chamber the MicroAquarium™enjoyment because life at this scale offers many opportunities forinflicting direct harm upon us. Rather, micro-life can be a source ofparasites that can and do harm humans, most micro-life is incapable of“germs”—a sentiment in conflict with reality. While there are germs andthe contrary, most people are quick to equate microscopic life withencounters with tiny organisms that are common in ordinary habitats. Tothem.” Unfortunately, far too few people have meaningful, positive(pp. 177–178), “They are everywhere but it takes a special eye to findMicroscopic organisms exist all around us. In the words of E.O. Wilson of creatures.help fulfill this need and allow more people to affiliate with even the tiniestespecially children, need to connect with nature. The MicroAquarium™ can, is full of reasons why we, andChildren from Nature-Deficit DisorderLast Child in the Woods: Saving OurRichard Louv's inspiring book, MicroAquarium™ allows even children to discover life at small scale.microscope, ordinary places harbor extraordinary life. The simplicity of thewith worlds beyond our normal experience. When viewed with aand easy to use, the MicroAquarium™ can empower more of us to connectThese features make the MicroAquarium™ a remarkable device. Simple about, and upon, surrounding substrates and one another.addition, organisms can be seen in various perspectives as they moverecommended for standard wet mount preparations) aren’t needed. Infood in familiar surroundings such that slowing agents (oftencommon to find individual organisms seemingly content, browsing forinteraction between organisms and their physical environment. It isMicroAquarium™ does little to disturb the spatial organization and activeMicroAquarium™. Observing the artificial microcosm within amicrocosms found in nature—characterize the artificial habitat within thespaces, a benthos of sediment, and biofilms—each an aspect ofanother in an environment similar to their natural environment. InterstitialWithin an established MicroAquarium™, organisms interact with one available for observations.no wet mounts to prepare and no cleanup afterwards, more time isEstablished cultures are instantly and always ready to be observed. Givenphotographed at any time—especially as seen through a microscope.including the interactions between living organisms, can be observed andmaintained for days, weeks, and even years. Many natural phenomena,microscope slide. A MicroAquarium™ with animal and plant life can bewater, the MicroAquarium™ does not spill when laid flat upon a
6 algae (many types) slime molds water molds angiosperms (esp. the carnivorous Utricularia) bryophytes (both terrestrial and aquatic species of mo cyanobacteria (many types) Botanical Organisms arthropods (crustaceans, arachnids, insects) mollusks (snails, fingernail clams) annelids (both freshwater oligochaetes and marine po tardigrades (water bears) nematodes rotifers gastrotrichs microturbellarians planarians hydra (esp. Chlorohydra) Peranemaand Euglena)flagellates (esp. ciliates (many types) sarcodines (naked and testate amoebae) Zoological Organisms is a list of the major types of organisms maintained focultures, many taken from field habitats, have been esIn exploring the educational uses of the MicroAquariu never disappoint.”can still be a source of wonder—which is why the stud(p. 268), “To discover for yourself whaLove of Insectsmany organisms. To quote Thomas Eisner in his extra
sses and liverwo lychaetes) r extended periotablished. Followm™, several hun y of nature cant is already knowordinary book, F
rts) ds.ingdre nor
d
• • • •
when “starved” for several weeks.result in the loss of organismal diversity. Most cultures will do wellDo not overfeed. Excessive feeding will favor bacterial growth and can temperatures (e.g., a hot car) will kill most invertebrates.the stage in dissecting microscopes. Brief exposure to hightemperatures. Limit the exposure time to heat from light bulbs belowMicroAquarium™ will heat up quickly when exposed to warmarea in relation to the small volume, the contents of theDo not expose living cultures to excessive heat. Given the high surface Do Lay FlatDo Not Tilt down will spill the contents. Therefore, use of the lid is recommended.However, tilting an open MicroAquarium™ too far or holding it upside-MicroAquarium™ will not spill, due to the capillary retention of water.When laid flat upon a microscope stage, even without a lid, the Do Hold by EdgesDo Not Press on Face chamber.MicroAquarium™ by the edges. Do not press on the face of theface. To avoid breakage while handling, always hold theThe MicroAquarium™ is easily broken by pressure exerted upon its Guidelines for Use
7
8 desired level.cell isolated from a source culture), the chamber should be filled to thesmaller volume is desired (as in establishing new cultures with a single with fluid, in cases where improved oxygen delivery is needed or a While it is generally advisable to completely fill the MicroAquarium™ position substrates in the lower half of the MicroAquarium™.flat coffee stirrer, flat toothpick, or piece of thin plastic) can be used toA narrow, flat tool, several inches long (e.g., a six-inch manicure nail file,MicroAquarium™ provides food and habitat for many invertebrates. A thin layer of sediment (0–5 mm) resting in the bottom of an uprightadvised. Excessive solid matter can reduce visibility into the microcosm. balance between solid matter (sediment and substrates) and water isWhile there is no wrong way to stock a MicroAquarium™, striking a moss, pieces of substrate collected from aquatic environments).forceps aids the addition of larger substrates and plant life (e.g., shoots ofmicroorganisms. A plastic tool and fineintroducing and retrieving selected(“stretch pipets”) are useful forpliers into long, thin extensionswhose tips have been stretched with(e.g., scuds, flatworms). Plastic pipetsuseful for transferring larger animalsPipet tips cut to larger diameter arecradled by, the opening of the chamber.angle with the tip resting upon, and6988 work well). Hold the pipet at a low(Carolina items RN-73-6986 and RN-73-chamber and to transfer organismsUse a pipet (plastic preferred) to fill the guidelines that may be modified to fit specific uses.for a multitude of purposes. The methods presented here are simplyThe MicroAquarium™ may be stocked with an infinite range of materials Stocking around and shared by multiple observers.handling in that it becomes a spill-resistant chamber that can be passedservice. Placing the lid upon the MicroAquarium™ should facilitateuse. When properly treated, the MicroAquarium™ will provide years ofAs a precaution, rinse the MicroAquarium™ with tap water prior to initial General Methods
9 MicroAquarium™ cultures is recommended.water) is appropriate. A small bottle of refill water placed near thevolume. Otherwise any aquarium-safe water (bottled springwater, aged tapthe evaporation zone, distilled water should be used to replace lostdistilled water or any aquarium-safe water. To minimize mineral buildup inReplenish evaporative water loss as needed (ca. every 10 days) with Care and Feeding container so they do not rattle.care to pack MicroAquarium™ chambers carefully in a crushproofCarolina™ Blue Box, RN-63-4200). To transport for use in the field, takesmall chisel or sharpened screwdriver, remove every other partition in theand transported in test tube racks or modified slide boxes (with the aid of aMicroAquarium™ chambers without stands may be conveniently storedplacement near a window receiving indirect sunlight is ideal.room temperature in diffuse light. Room lighting is adequate; however,In general, organisms within the MicroAquarium™ are best maintained at Placement and Storage zone, or near the edge of the chamber over the sealant under the glass.with the viewing area, i.e., near the top of the chamber in the evaporation/diameter). Labels should be placed where they will not interferedots, 4″1strip cut from a mailing label or with “color coding labels” (adhesive paperAn individual MicroAquarium™ may be labeled with an adhesive label Labeling replace evaporative water loss.deposits in the evaporation zone, distilled water is recommended todoubt, contact your local water treatment plant. To minimize mineral(i.e., Carolina's RN-67-1939 or RN-67-1985 water conditioners). If in dechlorinator specifically formulated to remove chloramines not removed by aging tap water. Instead, treat the water with awater now contains chloramines as disinfectant agents. Chloramines areChlorination alert:pond water, or any aquarium-safe water. Some tapbottled springwater (RN-13-2450), distilled water, aged tap water, sterilizedinvestigated. If source water is unavailable, use any of the following:To fill initially, use source water from the culture or environment being Water
10 transferred with a pipet.food pellet, or fish food pellet may be dissolved in water and thenFor ease of transfer, a small amount of crushed Protozoan Pellet, rabbit fresh carrot Liquid Protozoan Nutrient Concentrate (RN-13-2350) bits of hard-boiled egg yolk active dry yeast granules Timothy hay (RN-13-2385) fragments of other fish food (e.g., algae wafers, shrimp pellets) Betta fish food grains fragments of Protozoan Pellets (RN-13-2360) rabbit food pellets spider silk (collected from spider webs using a toothpick) pine pollen moistened with skim milk into the MicroAquarium™.)drop of fresh skim milk (Deliver less than one drop by dipping a toothpick fragments of rice, wheat, and other seeds grits (crushed corn) sesame seeds poppy seeds been added to MicroAquarium™ chambers with success include:rotifers, gastrotrichs, and microcrustaceans). Foods (nutrients) that haveappropriate food can produce blooms of protozoans and metazoans (e.g.,anaerobic microbes and will kill aerobic life. In general, the addition ofwhen gently pressed. Excess food results in blooms of foul smellingmonth. For transfer, small particles of food will adhere to one’s fingertipfish food pellets (up to 2 mm in diameter) may be added once or twice aDepending on one’s objective, food comparable in size to a grain of Betta without their drying out.be partially sealed in a clear plastic bag and left for one to several monthsretard evaporation. Alternatively, multiple MicroAquarium™ chambers caMicroAquarium™, applied loosely to allow gas exchange, can be used to(exposed substrate acts as an evaporative wick). The lid of theon the humidity where stored and the amount of substrate exposedThe rate at which water is lost due to evaporation varies greatly dependin
n g
11 a thick layer of sediment.Others organisms will be made visible as they are no longer hidden withinorganisms respond by scurrying across the chamber when so disturbed.inner chamber. As the MicroAquarium™ is laid flat after agitation, manyMicroAquarium™ thereby loosening and spreading the debris across theTo reveal life hidden in the benthos debris, gently shake or agitate the microscope.organisms are located. Other organisms are found only with a compoundor dissecting microscope can help you quickly access where particularparticularly in the bottom of the MicroAquarium™. The use of a hand lenssealant is often a region of interesting activity and good visibility,bottom or along the sides. The zone along the edges of the inner siliconecolumn near the surface may harbor life different from that found near theVarious microhabitats exist within the MicroAquarium™. The upper water Viewing Tips and Observational Techniques inches long (e.g., nail files) are useful for removing particulate matter.times with warm tap water. Pipe cleaners and stiff, flat, narrow tools severalhours in a 1:9 ratio of bleach and water. After soaking, rinse well multiplerecommended to partially sterilize the aquarium by soaking it for severalPrior to starting a new culture in a previously used MicroAquarium™, it is inside the chamber.from the glass. Take care not to crush larger organisms with the metalmetal is moved across the inner walls, scrubbing obscuring films awaymagnet is pulled across the outer glass face while the attracted piece ofsmall piece of magnetic metal dropped into the aquarium chamber. TheA small magnet (a few mm in diameter) can also be used to manipulate a MicroAquarium™ with a pipet.this purpose). Rinse with water and return the organisms to theof tissue pushed by a flat tool (a six-inch manicure nail file is excellent forfluid contents, wipe away the obscuring films with a pipe cleaner or pieceMicroAquarium™ to remove all of the desired organisms. Once emptied ofMicroAquarium™ into a small dish for later retrieval. If necessary, rinse theaquarium and restore a clear view, pour the contents of themacroscopic life (e.g., crustaceans, planarians, annelids, etc.). To clean theAlgal films can become a nuisance in cultures designed to display Cleaning
12 invertebrates along with celllegs, and mouthparts ofBristles, hairs, color patterns, eyes,that provided by a microscope.detailed observation that can rivallens. A hand lens allows forbest magnifier is a quality handthe MicroAquarium™. Perhaps themay be used in conjunction withvariety of handheld magnifierscan serve as a viewing aid. A greatin front of the MicroAquarium™A large magnifying lens positioned Magnifiers easily seen without magnification.glistening specks moving through the water. Individual paramecia aremacroinvertebrates. Blooms of one-celled, tiny ciliates can be seen asallows one to see clearly, and with some detail, features ofWhen properly presented with favorable lighting, the naked eye alone Naked Eye MicroAquarium™.surface makes for comfortable viewing; your eyes should be level with theposition of the flashlight can bring about desired lighting. An elevated tableMicroAquarium™ in front of a dark background. Minor changes in thetechnique to achieve this effect is to lay a flashlight to the side of abelow, or from the sides provides for dark-field illumination. A simpleIn a dark room or with a dark backdrop, light projected from directly above, is bright and useful for viewing a handheld MicroAquarium™.source commonly available in schools is an overhead projector—the lightpositioned directly over the light source and under the stage. Another lightmicroscope can be useful in illuminating a handheld MicroAquarium™naked eye viewing, even the light located below the stage of a compoundwell for viewing the aquarium contents with a hand lens or naked eye. Forfrom directly overhead, and lamplight from behind or below may serveDaylight as seen from indoors through a window, ceiling lights shining simply by learning to manipulate common light sources for desired effects.Light is the key to good viewing conditions. One can obtain quality lighting Light
1 used to isolate organisms within a capillary cage so that they may beSimilar to the hanging drop mount, the suspended drop mount may be Suspended Drop Mount Other Manipulations MicroAquarium™.used by sight-impaired individuals, are excellently suited for use with theaid of a document camera and projector. Digital magnifiers, such as thoseorganisms can be presented to an entire class or other audience with theMicroAquarium™. The live action of flatworms, mosquito larvae, and otheoverhead projectors all can be used in conjunction with theDocument cameras, visual presentation cameras, digital magnifiers, and Multimedia compound microscope.observations and for use in locating specimens to be viewed with themicroscopes. Dissecting microscopes are excellent for generalallows the use of 4, 10, and 20objective lens of most compound×××most compound microscopes. The thickness of the MicroAquarium™The 2 3-inch size of the MicroAquarium™ fits the mechanical stage of× Microscopes visually scanned.the stand maintains a sharp focus as the contents of the chamber areaway from the MicroAquarium™. Sliding the hand lens along the base ofto form a sharp image is obtained by slightly tilting the lens towards orwhich the housing of a hand lens can be rested. The focal length requiredThe stand provided with the MicroAquarium™ serves as a brace upon ease and convenience of use makes more-frequent observations likely.typically lost in bright-field microscopy; 3-D shapes are readily evident;to affect angle of lighting; observing natural colors of organisms that arealternating between dark field and bright field with just a turn of the headwith the natural world; ease of manipulating lighting effects, e.g.,field during field trips and nature hikes greatly enhances one’s experiencelanyard around the neck and can be used virtually anywhere; use in thefield of view; lenses can be conveniently carried in pockets or worn with aof hand lens use include: organisms can be quickly located in the wideclearly visible with skillful manipulation of a hand lens. Positive attributesshape, ornamentation, and movements of algae and protozoa become
3 r
14 few weeks for developing biota.other source material to the chamber. Examine periodically over the nextcm above the lower chamber. After the agar has cooled, add pond water oragar to the lower portion of the MicroAquarium™. Add agar to a level of 1agar, use a plastic stretch pipet or glass Pasteur pipet to deliver hot, moltencolumn above. Various types of nutrient agar can also be used. To addthose organisms that penetrate the semisolid medium from the waterlower portion of the MicroAquarium™ can provide interesting views ofAs a semi-transparent medium, a layer of 1.5% non-nutrient agar in the Agar microaquarium used in the culture of marine nematodes.method of using capillary tubing to deliver aerated salt water in hisoxygen levels (e.g., bryozoans). Thun (1966) originally proposed thebe useful for the culture of less tolerant organisms that require higherwill rise in succession just as in a larger aquarium. These techniques maytubing connects an air source to the lower water column. Tiny air bubblesheight of the peak curve in the tubing. To aerate, one piece of the smallupwelling water. To adjust the rate of inflow and outflow, simply adjust thesecond piece of tubing siphons away from near the water’s surface theelevated container (delivery rate about one drop per second) while theof tubing siphons fresh, aerated water into a MicroAquarium™ from ansize 0.020 0.060, formulation 5-54-HL) are needed for irrigation. One piece×microbore tubing,MicroAquarium™. Two pieces of plastic tubing (Tygon® While generally not required, it is possible to either irrigate or aerate the Irrigation and Aeration using a slender probe or stretch pipet.experimentally through the addition of nutrients or additional organisms byMicroAquarium™ flat. The suspended drop can be manipulatedinner glass. Before the suspended water reaches the bottom, lay theshould adhere to both sides of theThe water entering the chamberpipet into an empty MicroAquarium™.containing selected organisms from asqueeze a small amount of watersuspended drop mount, gentlyperiod of several days. To prepare aeasily relocated and studied over a
15 may hasten the buildup of harmful waste products).month, depending on the culture’s vigor (overfeeding a vigorous cultureNutrients should be added to protozoan cultures about once or twice acultures. Old cultures will eventually die out if not managed carefully.population growth. Older cultures may also be used to establish newweeks, even months. Adding nutrients to older cultures typically results intemperature in diffuse lighting, MicroAquarium™ cultures may last forfragment added to each MicroAquarium™ subculture. Stored at roomgrains should be cut with a razor blade into several thin fragments and onesubstrate. If the purchased culture contains wheat or rice grains, thesefrom the bottom of the culture dish and from around any included foodsource culture. If a dissecting microscope is not available, retrieve fluiduse of a dissecting microscope can help you locate the protozoa in theprotozoa after one or two weeks provided nutrients were also added. Theprotozoa. The inoculated microaquaria should contain more abundantCarolina culture may be used to inoculate many microaquaria with fewerfill several microaquaria with abundant protozoa. Alternatively, a singleMicroAquarium™ with purchased cultures. A typical Carolina culture willstocked microaquaria containing the desired protozoa is to fill eachadvance of planned laboratory use. The quickest way to produce well-cultures of protozoa may be ordered to arrive several days (or weeks) inspecific protozoa from natural habitats. For convenience and to save time,many types of protozoa. With experience, one can with relative ease obtainThe MicroAquarium™ is an excellent chamber for studying and culturing Culturing and Observing Protozoa organisms prosper within the MicroAquarium™ maintained indoors.life die off soon after removal from the field environment and whichand the contents examined. It should be interesting to note which forms ofbeing investigated. When retrieved, the outer faces should be wiped cleanMicroAquarium™ remain submerged for a month or more in the habitatAs a means of sampling microlife in aquatic habitats, let the rotifers have been captured using this method.MicroAquarium™ for the presence of life. Water bears, nematodes, andconvenient places to station microaquaria. After a rain, examine theflow and fill the MicroAquarium™. Crotches near the lower trunk arethe opening flush against the bark of a tree where rainwater is expected totrunk, empty MicroAquarium™ chambers can be positioned upright withTo demonstrate the dispersal of microorganisms downward over a tree MicroAquarium™ as a Trapping Device
16 piece of black construction paper or aluminum foil.demonstrated by shielding part of the MicroAquarium™ from light with aEuglena(RN-13-1768). The phototropic response of Euglenacan be easily Flagellates Stentor coeruleus(RN -13-1598). Spirostomum(RN-13-1590). moving towards to cathode (–) wire].to a 9-volt battery [Paramecia visible to the naked eye instantly beginbehavior is easily done by inserting the wire leads of a battery clip attachedcompound microscope. Also, demonstrating the effect of voltage on cellcontractile vacuole are readily evident when viewed at 100with a×Paramecium caudatum(RN-13-1554). The star-like radiating canals of the zoochlorella, this species performs well in neglected cultures.Paramecium bursaria(RN-13-1548). Containing the green symbionts Parameciumsp. (RN-13-1540). face of the MicroAquarium™.Euplotes(RN-13-1480). Euplotesuses leg-like cirri to walk across the inner Dileptus(RN-13-1466). Didinium(RN-13-1460). Colpidium(RN-13-1452). readily break dormancy when introduced into fresh culture.MicroAquarium™. Aging cultures may develop large, resting cysts thatBursaria(RN-13-1434). This large ciliate is easily accommodated within the hand lens.cannibalistic cells that develop in aging cultures are easily seen with a 14×Blepharisma(RN-13-1430). Both the smaller cells and the “giant” Ciliates Difflugia lobostoma(RN-13-1334). Chaos(RN-13-1324). Centropyxis aculeata(RN-13-1320). Arcella vulgaris(RN-13-1310). hand lens or microscope.A. proteusupon the inner face of the MicroAquarium™ are visible with aAmoeba proteus(RN-13-1306). Renowned for being difficult to find, sun amoebae prey upon them. Actinosphaerium(RN-13-1302). Add microcrustaceans and observe these Sarcodines
17 Dugesia dorotocephala(RN-13-2970). Mixed Planaria (RN-13-2958). MicroAquarium™ contains only planaria.required in order to remove excess food, especially if thelens and compound microscope are also useful. A water change may beminimize exposure to bright light and heat from the light source. A handemerges. Dissecting microscopes work well, but care should be taken toside to observe the ventral side of the planarian from which the pharynxAfter planarians begin to feed, flip the MicroAquarium™ to the appropriateorganisms (scuds, mayfly larvae, etc.) have also been used with success.been starved for a week or two. Betta fish food grains and injured liveto a MicroAquarium™ containing one to three planarians that ideally haveLumbriculusfeeding, add (with the aid of a pipet) a freshly cut fragment of photosynthetic organisms (algae, aquatic moss). To observe planarianswithin the confines of a balanced MicroAquarium™ that containstypically maintained as individuals, sometimes living for nearly a yearindividual planarians. Planarians may reproduce by fragmenting but areThe MicroAquarium™ is an excellent chamber in which to house and feed Planarians Mixed Hydra (RN-13-2814). Culture contains green and brown specimens. Green Hydra (RN-13-2810). Hydra (RN-13-2800). Lumbriculusmay induce budding.oligochaete Feeding green hydra microcrustaceans or fragments of the aquaticwhen exposed to 8–10 hours of indirect sunlight or fluorescent light daily.Green hydra can be added to microaquaria and maintained for months Hydra and requires little space.individual animals for extended periods (weeks to years) is fairly simpleMaintaining reproductive animals and keeping selected nonreproductive Culturing, Observing, and Keeping Small Animals dynamic colonies.MicroAquarium™ is an excellent temporary viewing chamber for theseVolvoxsp. (RN-13-1860) and Volvox globator(RN -13-1864). The Peranemadoes well for months within a MicroAquarium™.Peranema(RN-13-1838). Though small, the flagellum is easily seen at 100.×
18 Mosquito Diet (RN-14-4485). CulexLarvae (RN-14-4476). CulexEgg Raft (RN-14-4470). are particularly well suited and frequently metamorphose into adults.extended periods within the MicroAquarium™. Midge and mosquito larvaeMany larval forms of insects collected in pond water can be maintained for Insects Mixed Annelids (RN-14-1740). Lumbriculus variegatus(RN-14-1720). Aeolosoma(RN-14-1748). habitats or purchased from Carolina Biological Supply Company.Small, freshwater oligochaetes may be obtained from various pond waterhabitats where they are quite common within many submerged substrates.may be obtained from sediments of marine aquaria or from natural coastaland form within MicroAquarium™ habitats. Small, marine polychaetesappreciation for these animals will emerge as you observe their behaviorfragmentation and frequently multiply within the MicroAquarium™. A newSmall, aquatic annelids commonly reproduce by the asexual method of Annelids Mixed Crustaceans (RN-14-2350). Daphnia pulex(RN-14-2314). Ostracods (RN-14-2370). Copepods, Cyclops(RN-14-2365). Tardigrades (RN-13-3960). Gastrotrichs, Lepidodermella(RN-13-3100). Philodina(RN-13-3172).Rotifers, Carolina Biological Supply Company.viewed. These organisms may be collected in the field or purchased fromsurface of the inner face of the MicroAquarium™, where they are easilyObserving Protozoa.” Like protozoa, they will frequently move across theThese animals may be cultured as described under “Culturing and Cladocerons Rotifers, Gastrotrichs, Tardigrades, Copepods, Ostracods, and Small
19 within the MicroAquarium™. Many produce interesting structuresaquatic and terrestrial bryophytes survive for long periods underwaterWolffiaand Wolffiella, the smallest angiosperms, grow very well. Many and the root cap are easily observed with a hand lens. Duckweeds such asCarrot seeds have been shown to readily germinate underwater. Root hairs Plants Physarum polycephalumPlasmodium (RN-15-6193). Physarum polycephalumSclerotium (RN-15-6190). demonstrates slime trails left behind the advancing plasmodium.outstanding for microscopic study of cytoplasmic streaming; it alsoday is recommended to keep it hydrated and vigorous. This technique isthe plasmodium for a week or longer. Rinsing the plasmodium every otherplasmodium to a prepared MicroAquarium™. Add an oat flake to maintainpour the agar out). Transfer either a sclerotium or a piece of active(add molten agar to the MicroAquarium™, let set for 30 seconds, and thenMicroAquarium™ previously coated on the inside with non-nutrient agarPhysarum polycephalumis easily grown in a “dry”The slime mold Saprolegnia(RN-15-6270). Allomyces arbuscula(RN-15-5910). Achlya(RN-15-5901). many ways superior to the traditional wet mount preparation.in situobservation of these tender organisms is inlittle sediment. The Betta fish food grains added to freshly collected pond water that contains aWater molds frequently develop in just a few days on poppy seeds and Fungi Culturing and Observing Fungi and Plants Aquatic Isopods (RN-14-2360). Amphipods (RN-14-2355). larger specimens may not fit within the chamber.chamber recommended). Note that the size of these animals varies, andobserved, and small individuals will molt and grow larger (1–4 animals perpets. Feeding behaviors and interactions with other organisms are easilyThese relatively large aquatic crustaceans make extraordinary classroom Amphipods and Aquatic Isopods