Automated quantification of Daphnia sp. population in water reservoirs using digital image processing

We propose a scientific and technical methodology for creating a preliminary procedure to remotely detect the presence of a substantial population of zooplankton filter feeders within a specific region of a reservoir. This detection is achieved through computer processing of digital photographs taken in that area. It is about a method involving the phototactic attraction of zooplankton using white light. The proposed approach entails computing correlations between the RGB model components of digital photographs taken in a phytobenthos area before and after zooplankton attraction using light. Subsequently, the systemic colorimetric parameters can be employed in the procedure for remotely detecting a substantial population of zooplankton filter feeders within a specific reservoir section. Specifically, we seek colorimetric parameters that mirror the developmental patterns outlined by Margalef’s model of succession. This investigation involves comparative analysis of correlation tables for RGB model components in digital photos taken before and after zooplankton attraction using white light. Our study focuses on Daphnia pulex. The study utilized digital photos obtained from aquarium experiments conducted under conditions simulating drone-based photography at a height of 1-2 meters above the water’s surface. The results are novel from the perspective of aquatic ecosystem ecology, as they provide a formalized description of changes in the systemic colorimetric parameters of Margalef’s model of succession. These changes are attributed to the influence of coloration on these systemic parameters within this specific waterplane ecosystem of zooplankton filter feeders. The applied significance of these results lies in identifying systemic colorimetric parameters that can be utilized in remote registration procedures to detect the environmental and biological presence of zooplankton filter feeders in specific areas of a reservoir. This is significant for water purification from bacterial suspensions and for establishing a natural food source for juvenile fish.