Demonstration, validation, and application of hyperspectral microscopy for the collection of cyanobacterial spectral signatures

Published

February 24, 2026

Author(s)

Natalie C. Hall, Adam Mumford, Aaron Goldfain, David Allen, Terry slonecker, Alisa Shtabnoy

Abstract

Cyanobacterial and other algal blooms are an environmental concern in waterbodies worldwide. While these blooms are a nuisance for recreational activities, they can also be harmful to human and wildlife health when the algae produce and release toxins. Algal community composition can be monitored and analyzed by acquiring hyperspectral images that provide information on various photosynthetic and accessory pigments. Validated, traceable measurements are needed to compare data collected by different hyperspectral instruments. In this proof-of-concept study, we detail the development and validation of a custom hyperspectral microscopy imaging system and assess whether this technology can differentiate between cyanobacteria genera based on differences in their reflectance characteristics. As not all cyanobacteria produce toxins, the ability to distinguish among taxa could be used to identify potential toxin-producers and guide field sampling and further research. Spectral characterization of these taxa contributes to remote sensing efforts to characterize and identify cyanobacterial genera at larger spatial scales.

Citation

Limnology and Oceanography-Methods

Pub Type

Journals

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.1002/lom3.70038

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Citation

Hall, N. , Mumford, A. , Goldfain, A. , Allen, D. , slonecker, T. and Shtabnoy, A. (2026), Demonstration, validation, and application of hyperspectral microscopy for the collection of cyanobacterial spectral signatures, Limnology and Oceanography-Methods, [online], https://doi.org/10.1002/lom3.70038, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=956732 (Accessed March 25, 2026)