Exploring Pond Water with a Microscope

Students collect pond water samples and prepare microscope slides to observe microorganisms such as algae, protozoa, rotifers, and tiny crustaceans. The activity demonstrates biodiversity and introduces microscopy techniques for studying aquatic ecosystems.

1. Collect pond water in a clean container, ideally from the bottom with some sediment and plant matter for richer samples.
2. Stir the sample gently before use to distribute microorganisms evenly.
3. Use a pipette to place a drop of pond water onto a microscope slide.
4. Place a cover slip at an angle to reduce air bubbles; absorb excess water with a paper towel if necessary.
5. Place the slide under a compound microscope and adjust focus at low power before moving to higher magnification.
6. Record drawings or photos of observed organisms and note differences between samples from different ponds.

Pond Water Under Microscope - Mr Pauller - Lab Hamster:

How a drop of pond water looks under the microscope - Microbehunter:

📄 How to look at pond water with a microscope - Microscopes.com.au: https://microscopes.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-look-at-pond-water-with-a-microscope?srsltid=AfmBOorKKiSKddzfXR0uR_o_ekwp2y6AKw4_zMY-KZfLUn7-qJWWKg84

• Compare samples collected from multiple ponds or different parts of the same pond.
• Observe how pond water changes over several days as oxygen levels drop and different organisms dominate.
• Use stains to highlight bacteria or algae.
• Try viewing with different types of microscopy (phase contrast, darkfield) if available.
• Compare pond water with tap water or bottled water to highlight differences in microbial life.

• Wash hands thoroughly after handling pond water and microscope slides.
• Do not ingest pond water or touch your face while working.
• Supervise younger students during water collection to prevent accidents near ponds.
• Handle glass slides and cover slips carefully to avoid cuts.

• Which microorganisms are most common in your pond sample? (Likely algae, protozoa, or rotifers depending on the ecosystem.)
• How do organisms from one pond differ from those in another? (Each pond has its own unique micro-ecosystem.)
• Why is sediment-rich water often better for observing microorganisms? (It contains nutrients and habitat for a greater variety of life.)
• What roles do these microorganisms play in the pond ecosystem? (Producers like algae, consumers like protozoa, decomposers like bacteria.)
• How might seasonal or environmental changes affect what you find in pond water? (Temperature, nutrient levels, and rainfall can shift species composition.)