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Fast Fact

Figuring out how much zooplankton there is in the water can be very difficult. The traditional way is to use very fine mesh nets to sieve them out, but that requires straining a great deal of water (up to 3000 cubic feet per sample). Newer methods include optical techniques that measure the size of the shadow produced as the plankton passes through a light beam, or even cameras that can be lowered in the water.

Campbell, R.W. & J.F. Dower, 2008. Depth distribution during the life history of Neocalanus plumchrus in the Strait of Georgia. Journal of Plankton Research 30:7-20.


The Prince William Sound Science Center was founded to facilitate and conduct research that will increase our understanding of the ecosystems in both Prince William Sound and the Copper River Delta. The Center is committed to implementing ecosystem-based research programs emphasizing the long-term health and sustainability of resources upon which local residents depend.

Current programs include oceanographic observations, fish and plankton population assessments, food web analysis using stable isotopes, Steller sea lion observations and, on the Copper River Delta, investigations of the intertidal, shorebird and fish ecology.

The Science Center is also working with stakeholders in the region to build a regional ocean observing system. Part of an evolving national program, this system currently includes meteorological data, ocean observations and ocean and atmospheric models. Future plans include incorporation of biological data into this system with broad data distribution to the public through the Internet.

Learn about Biological Monitoring and Investigations

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