High-throughput characterization of the filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. using flow cytometry

In stirred-tank photobioreactors agitation causes fragmentation of filamentous cyanobacteria. Here, we introduce a flow cytometric approach for high-throughput measurements of trichome dimensions, heterocysts and metabolic activity of Anabaena sp. cultures. The longest characterized trichome had 1135 μm chain length. This technology could potentially be used for monitoring and control purposes.