UWITEC CPN Closing Net for Vertical Plankton Sampling
| Origin | Austria |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | UWITEC CPN |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The UWITEC CPN Closing Net is a precision-engineered vertical plankton sampling system designed for stratified, depth-resolved collection of pelagic micro- and mesozooplankton in freshwater and marine environments. Based on the principle of controlled vertical deployment with in-situ net closure, the CPN enables discrete water-column sampling by opening and closing the net aperture at preselected depths—eliminating contamination from overlying or underlying layers during retrieval. Its core architecture integrates a robust 200 mm diameter PVC frame (350 mm length), a mechanically actuated closing mechanism triggered via surface-controlled release line, and an integrated digital flow meter calibrated for low-velocity laminar flow conditions typical of plankton tow applications. This design adheres to established limnological and oceanographic best practices for quantitative abundance estimation, supporting compliance with ISO 24761:2022 (Water quality — Guidance on sampling of plankton) and ASTM D5119–22 (Standard Guide for Plankton Sampling in Freshwater Systems).
Key Features
- Depth-selective closure mechanism operated via stainless-steel release line, enabling precise opening/closing at user-defined depths during descent or ascent
- Integrated electronic flow meter with real-time digital output transmitted via waterproof coaxial cable to surface display unit—ensuring traceable volumetric flow data (L/min resolution ±0.05 L/min)
- Modular mesh bag system compatible with standardized mesh sizes ranging from 6 µm to 1000 µm (e.g., Nitex®, polyester, or nylon monofilament), facilitating taxon-specific retention and size-fractionated analysis
- Rigid 200 mm diameter × 350 mm length PVC cylindrical frame engineered for structural integrity under hydrostatic pressure up to 100 m depth
- Quick-release bottom collector tube and interchangeable net bags—designed for rapid field exchange without tools and minimal sample disturbance
- Corrosion-resistant hardware including marine-grade stainless-steel springs, anodized aluminum fittings, and UV-stabilized polymer components
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CPN supports quantitative sampling across diverse planktonic assemblages—including phytoplankton (e.g., diatoms, dinoflagellates), zooplankton (e.g., cladocerans, copepods, rotifers), and larval stages of benthic invertebrates and fish. Mesh selection (6–1000 µm) allows alignment with international protocols such as ICES WGFAST guidelines for zooplankton monitoring or EPA Method 1623.2 for protozoan enumeration. All wetted materials comply with EU REACH Annex XVII restrictions and are non-leaching under prolonged seawater exposure. The system meets GLP documentation requirements when paired with UWITEC’s certified calibration certificate (traceable to PTB Braunschweig) and audit-ready flow log export (CSV format with timestamped depth/flow/temperature metadata).
Software & Data Management
Flow data acquisition is managed through UWITEC’s NetControl v3.2 software (Windows-based), which synchronizes with optional CTD integration (Sea-Bird SBE 19plus or RBRconcerto). The software records time-stamped flow rate, cumulative volume, deployment depth (via pressure sensor input), and closure event markers. Exported datasets include ISO 8601-compliant timestamps, support FAIR data principles, and are compatible with ecological modeling platforms (e.g., R ‘plankton’ package, MATLAB plankton analysis toolboxes). Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when configured with user authentication and electronic signature modules.
Applications
- Vertical distribution profiling of plankton communities in reservoirs, lakes, estuaries, and continental shelf zones
- Calibration and validation of in-situ optical plankton counters (OPCs) and imaging systems (e.g., ZooScan, UVP)
- Long-term ecological monitoring programs requiring interannual comparability (e.g., LTER, GLEON, EMODnet)
- Toxicology studies assessing vertical migration responses to chemical gradients or hypoxia
- Ballast water compliance testing per IMO G8 guidelines, where discrete depth sampling informs risk assessment of non-indigenous species transport
FAQ
How is net closure triggered at a specific depth?
Closure is initiated manually via tension release on the surface-controlled stainless-steel trigger line; depth targeting relies on calibrated winch counter or synchronized CTD depth telemetry.
Can the flow meter be recalibrated in the field?
No—calibration is performed at UWITEC’s Vienna facility using NIST-traceable volumetric standards; field verification is supported via zero-flow check and reference bottle test protocol.
Is the CPN compatible with A-frame or crane deployment systems?
Yes—the net features dual 12 mm stainless-steel lifting eyes rated to 500 kg SWL and includes integrated fairlead guides for stable towing alignment.
What maintenance is required between deployments?
Rinse thoroughly with deionized water after saltwater use; inspect O-rings and spring tension biannually; store mesh bags dry in low-UV environment to prevent hydrolysis.
Does UWITEC provide method validation documentation?
Yes—each CPN shipment includes a Certificate of Conformance referencing ISO/IEC 17025-accredited performance testing (flow linearity, closure repeatability, pressure tolerance) conducted at the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT).
