Prototype Plankton-Tow Activity for Barrier Island Botanists

By Sarah Powers, Fall Intern 2024

As part of our Barrier Island Botanist program, our education team recently tested a new hands-on plankton-tow activity, aimed at engaging participants with the tiny but fascinating organisms that thrive in our island’s waters. We explored three different sites around Bald Head Island and collected five samples using plankton tow nets of varying sizes, with an average of two drags per sample.

Sample Collection Details:

• Kayak Launch: We performed two drags of 88 feet using a 78–100 sized net.
• Marina Park: Three drags of 22 feet were conducted with a 78–100 sized net, and at Marina Park #2, six drags of the same length used a larger 78–210 net.
• Access 5: Two drags were carried out at both sites, with one using a 78–100 net and the other with a larger 78–210 net.

Field microscopes were employed to get a quick look at the samples on-site, using sunlight as the light source. We discovered that the Marina Park sample had the highest concentration of visible plankton when observed with the microscopes.

Findings from Tow Nets:

• 210 Net: Samples collected with the larger 78–210 net at Marina Park #2 and Access 5 produced visible plankton and microscopic organisms. However, the presence of sediment made it difficult to observe them without separating the particles from the rest of the sample.
• 100 Net: Samples collected with the smaller 78–100 net also revealed plankton and microorganisms. Similar to the larger net, sediment in the rinse made observation a bit tricky.

Using a flashlight with the field microscopes slightly improved visibility, especially when the microscopes are being used inside. This interactive approach will give students visiting the island for Barrier Island Botanists a glimpse at what plankton really is, bridging the gap between the familiar cartoon character and real-life plankton in our waters.

Overall, the plankton-tow activity proved to be an exciting addition to our marsh station program. It provides a hands-on experience for kids and adults alike, offering a visual understanding of the microscopic life that exists just beneath the surface. We are eager to continue developing this activity as a way to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and marine enthusiasts!