Novel Flow Visualization Technique Using Bioluminescent Marine Plankton. Part 1:Laboratory Studies

摘要

This study addresses the hypothesis that luminescent marine plankton provide aunique tool for flow visualization in the laboratory. These single cells not only share properties common to passive flow tracers. they are, unlike any other passive tracen only visible when there are suitable levels of hydrodynamic stimulation. They show an immediate and transitory response to above-threshold conditions to provide real-time flow visualization. In order for bioluminescent plankton to be used as calibrated flow visualization markers, their response to fluid stimuli must be quantified. This study begins to characterize the responsiveness of laboratory cultures of organisms, and demonstrates their utility as a flow visualization tool. Bioluminescence is a promising method of flow visualization for delineating regions of the flow which contain above-threshold levels of hydrodynamic stimulus. It is especially useful for determining the laminar or turbulent nature of the flow. Further laboratory work will assess the utility of luminescence flow visualization compared to conventional methods. In the field, where conventional methods are not possible, bioluminescence may offer the only effective approach for flow visualization.