Tracking a protozoon using high-speed visual feedback

Abstract

With the rapid development of biotechnology, it becomes more important to observe motile microorganisms for research. It is difficult to observe living motile microorganisms through microscope because they can easily go out from the field of view of the microscope. Therefore, instruments that track objects in the field of view are important. To track motile microorganisms, visual feedback by an image sensor has an advantage. However, the frame rate of most conventional vision systems (NTSC 30 [Hz]/PAL 25 [Hz]) is too slow for visual feedback to track them. In this study, the authors develop a new instrument to track motile microorganisms using high-speed vision system-CPV system. The high-speed vision system can get and process images in approximately 1 [ms]. Experimental result demonstrates visually tracking a living paramecium in the field of view of the microscope is succeeded.