Citizen Science Plankton Training at Marine Discovery Center
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; participants should be comfortable standing on a dock and performing light lab tasks.
Overview
Join the Marine Discovery Center’s Project Plankton! Training for a hands-on, 1.5-hour citizen science adventure monitoring microscopic life in the Indian River Lagoon. Learn collection and cataloging techniques that power vital environmental research.
Project Plankton! Training
Ages 15+ • 1.5 Hour
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About This Adventure
Join us for an engaging 1.5-hour citizen science project at the Marine Discovery Center! Help monitor the hidden life of phytoplankton and zooplankton in the Indian River Lagoon. Learn collection techniques and species cataloging while contributing to vital environmental research. Experience the thrill of uncovering the unseen wonders of our ecosystem!
Come and help!
Duration
1.5 Hours
About
This project is open to the public.
Calling all citizen scientists ages 15 and up! Marine Discovery Center has begun monitoring the phytoplankton and zooplankton populations living in the Indian River Lagoon, right off our dock! By building this data set, we will be able to better understand the variety of life invisible to the naked eye and how plankton respond to environmental changes. Volunteers will learn how to properly collect plankton, prepare plankton samples, and catalog phytoplankton and zooplankton species.
What to Bring
The class will go to the MDC dock to collect specimens then back to the Learning Lab for training. No special equipment needed during this training.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Promptly
Sessions last 1.5 hours and start on time; prompt arrival maximizes your hands-on time with plankton collection.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
You’ll spend time on the dock and in the lab, so sturdy, slip-resistant shoes are recommended.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the program—water is essential but bring your own bottle to reduce waste.
Dress for Florida Weather
Light clothing and sun protection are advised since part of the activity takes place on the dock exposed to sun.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Manatees often frequent the Indian River Lagoon’s warmer waters.
- Wading birds such as great blue herons patrol the shallow areas hunting fish and crustaceans.
History
The Indian River Lagoon is one of North America's most diverse estuaries, supporting thousands of marine species and a critical economic resource historically tied to local fishing and trade.
Conservation
Monitoring plankton populations provides vital data on ecosystem health and helps guide efforts combating pollution and habitat loss in the lagoon.
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Adventure Hotspots in Daytona Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet and provide grip during dock sampling and lab work.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Shield your skin during outdoor collection sessions in Florida’s intense sun.
spring|summer|fall specific
Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt
Helps avoid sunburn and mosquito bites without overheating.
spring|summer|fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the session and reduce single-use plastic waste.