← Elaine Ingham · Research and publications
Microbial biomass: what does chloroform fumigation measure?
Microscopic observation illuminates a laboratory biomass estimation method.
Study published:
Two approaches
Direct microscopic counts in stored grassland soil were compared with biomass estimates from respiration following chloroform fumigation. [1]
Community composition mattered
The respiration method produced higher biomass estimates. Protozoa remained below detection after treatment, while bacteria and fungi generally recovered quickly. [1]
A connection with our Center
In our educational work, we want each result accompanied by its method and sample handling. We plan comparative presentations of observation tools so participants can understand which question each measurement addresses.
Presentation context
Summary of the published abstract for the particular soil. The educational connection is our own.
Sources and references
- Ingham, E. R. & Horton, K. A. (1987). Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 19(5), 545–550. DOI: 10.1016/0038-0717(87)90097-6 Original publication and study record