Fast phytoplankton classification from emission fluorescence spectra based on Self-Organizing Maps

Fluorescence spectroscopy is a powerful technique usually used to evaluate phytoplankton marine environments. In this study, a fast-technique for phytoplankton discrimination is presented based on the Self-Organizing Maps (SOM), evaluating its capability to achieve phytoplankton classification from its emission fluorescence spectra. The aim of this work is to reduce the acquisition time required for some of the existing techniques. Several cultures representing different algae groups were grown under the same conditions and their Emission spectra were measured every day. Finally, SOM analysis combined with derivative analysis was performed obtaining encouraging results.