Name: ____________________________________Date Completed:_____________________
Class: ____________ Instructor: ________________________________
Microscopic Life in Water
Lab No. 3
Introduction
In this laboratory investigation, we will observe the microscopic world of aquatic ecosystems
by examining samples of pond water, tap water, and sea water to explain the diversity and abundance
of microbial life thriving within these environments. By using various microscopic techniques, we will
discover the ecological interactions and microbial communities present in these aquatic habitats. This
laboratory activity will provide a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationships between water
quality and microbial diversity, with implications for environmental management and public health.
Pre-Lab Hypothesis
Write a hypothesis as to what kinds of microscopic organisms you will be able to see under the
microscope when looking in the different sources of water.
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Materials
• Microscope
• Glass Slides with Cover slips
• Forceps
• Dropper
• Beaker 50 mL and 100 mL
Procedure
1. Create a wet-mount slide of a sample of pond water.
2. Start by observing your slide under scanner. Once you have it focused, move to LPO and observe
your specimen. Look for movement.
3. Switch to high power and focus on one particular organism. Write down a minimum of 3 observations
of your specimen in the space provided on page 2. (e.g. size, color, movement/no movement, shape,
appendages, etc.)
4. Use the Fresh Water Identification site to see if you can identify your organism.
5. Once you have completed your first drawing try and identify other microscopic organisms in
your sample.
6. Repeat steps 1 -4 for the other water samples. Use a different glass slide for each water sample.
Cleanse the dropper with distilled water as you observe other samples of water.
Pond Water Sample
Description:
Tap Water Sample
Description:
Magnification:
Sea Water Sample
Description:
Magnification:
Stagnant Water Sample
Description:
Magnification:
Post-Lab Data Analysis
1. Describe the shape and movement of your first organism. Which water sample did you find this
organism in?
2. Describe the shape and movement of your second organism. Which water sample did you find this
organism in?
3. How many different kinds of organisms have you seen?
4. In which water sample did you find the greatest number of microorganisms? What is the explanation
for this?
5. How do the microbial diversity and composition vary between pond water, sea water, and tap water
samples? What factors might influence these variations?
6. How might the presence of pollutants or contaminants in tap water affect the diversity and health of
organisms compared to natural water sources like ponds and seas?
7. Consider the impact of human activities (e.g., pollution, habitat destruction) on the quality of water
in natural ecosystems like ponds and seas. How might these impacts affect the organisms living in
these environments?
