Fluorometer for Analysis of Photosynthesis in Phytoplankton

An instrument that measures the characteristic lifetime of fluorescence of chlorophyll has been invented for in situ, real-time oceanographic studies of photosynthesis in phytoplankton. The basic design and principle of operation lend themselves to development of the instrument as a relatively inexpensive, sensitive, compact, rugged, portable, low-power-consumption, hand-held, shipboard unit. Similar units with designs adapted to agricultural applications (e.g., assessment of physiological statuses of crops) are also envisioned.