Optimising the storage and extraction of chlorophyll samples

Abstract

The effect of different methodological steps on the analysisof chlorophyll a (chl a) was tested with algae culturesand Baltic Sea water. Selected experiments were tested with ANOVAsfor significant differences between treatments. The results ofthe experiments led to the following recommendations: the samplevolume should be low so that filtration takes no longer than10 min. Extracts rather than filters should be stored if storageof the samples at -20°C is required. However, quick-freezingin liquid nitrogen is recommended. The extraction efficiencywas much better in 96% ethanol than in 90% acetone - extractionin the latter solvent requires the filters to be homogenised.The extraction time has no significant influence within a rangeof 3 to 24 hours if the recommended 96% ethanol is used

Keywords

• Chlorophyll
• Methodology
• Extraction
• Storage
• Freezing