Field Notes Journal
Field Notes Journal a personal natural history of place

IV.5 Observation of Rotifers

Aim

To examine the structure and movement of rotifers.

Specimen & Apparatus

  • Pond water with plant debris
  • Pipette or dropper
  • Slide and coverslip
  • Compound microscope

Method

  1. Transfer a drop of water containing debris to a slide.
  2. Apply a coverslip carefully.
  3. Examine under low power to locate organisms.
  4. Increase magnification to observe structure and movement.
  5. Adjust illumination to improve contrast.

Observations to Make

  • Body shape and segmentation.
  • Movement and feeding behaviour.
  • Presence of rotating structures at the head.
  • Interaction with surrounding particles.