Lab Equipment

There are a few essential pieces of lab equipment needed for hatchery operations to make precise measurements and observations. 

Essential hatchery lab equipment
  • Glassware (graduated cylinder, beakers, etc)

  • Microscope, slides, covers, and a hemocytometer

  • Pipettes

Microscopes are essential for monitoring spore release and observing the different developmental stages of your kelp. We recommend purchasing a microscope that can reach at least 100x magnification. If possible, a compound microscope is best. You can find used microscopes online at sites like Cambridge Scientific, at university labs getting rid of old equipment, or from sites like eBay.

Other equipment, like microscope slides, pipettes, and glassware, can be found on Amazon or purchased through companies like Fisher Scientific. We recommend using glass because it is easier to clean than plastic. 

Industry Tip

Look for a microscope camera to take pictures of what you see under the microscope. This is good for keeping records, sharing what you’re seeing, and social media!