PHYTO-PAM-II

Natural water contains a mixture of different algae. Standard fluorometers measure them all together as one signal. The PHYTO-PAM-II goes further: it separates the contribution of up to four algal groups within one sample and analyzes their photosynthetic performance individually.

This is possible because different algae groups have different light-harvesting pigments. By exciting the sample with five different wavelengths (440, 480, 540, 590, 625 nm), the PHYTO-PAM-II generates a fluorescence excitation spectrum that is unique to each group. The built-in software uses reference spectra from pure cultures to deconvolute the mixed signal - automatically, in real time.

The PHYTO-PAM-II uses a photomultiplier detector that reaches sensitivity levels down to 0.1 µg Chl a/L, which is typical for oligotrophic lakes and open ocean water. This means the instrument works with natural, unprocessed water samples without the need for pre-concentration.

Beyond composition, the PHYTO-PAM-II provides a full PAM fluorescence analysis for each algae group: saturation pulse quenching analysis, effective PSII quantum yield, light response curves, and induction curves. A fast kinetics mode also allows determination of the wavelength-dependent PSII absorption cross section (σII) for single cultures.

The Compact version integrates all components in a single housing. Lightweight, battery-powered, and ideal for fieldwork and on-deck use.

The Modular version separates emitter, detector, and control unit around an open optical unit. This allows custom filter sets, temperature control, and additional optical ports - designed for advanced laboratory applications.