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About This Simulation
Utilize microscopy and spectroscopy techniques to solve a massive fish kill mystery. Investigate how dissolved nitrogen levels and an algal bloom are linked to the fish population.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the nitrogen cycle and its importance for living beings
- Understand the concept of eutrophication and harmful algal bloom, and the impact that it has on the ecosystem
- Analyze dissolved nitrogen levels in the water sample
- Understand the importance of sampling from different locations to get representative data
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Fish necropsy/dissection
- Sampling
- Spectrophotometry
Related Standards
- HS-ESS2-5, HS-ESS3-6, HS-ETS1-1, HS-LS2-4
- Biology 8.7 Disruption to Ecosystems
- 4.2 Energy flow
- Biology C.6 Nitrogen and phosphorus cycles
Learn More About This Simulation
Join us in the Eutrophication lab, where you take the role as an environmental investigator and study concept of eutrophication and harmful algal bloom. Use the knowledge you acquire to to solve a massive fish kill mystery.
Help the suffering fish
In the Marine Biology lab, you discovered that the fish were dying of suffocation, and now you want to know more about what caused the low dissolved oxygen levels. In the Eutrophication lab, you will use microscopy to analyze the biological matter in the water and spectrophotometry to study dissolved nitrogen levels. This will give you the data you need to conclude your investigation.
Analyze water samples
In the Marine Biology Lab you discovered that the low oxygen in the water was causing the fish to suffocate. Looking for more data, you will now analyze the water sample using the microscope. In this way you can study the biological matter in the water to find out if the algae could have something to do with the low oxygen levels.
Determine the source of the algal bloom
In the Eutrophication lab, you will learn about the nitrogen cycle and how human activity can influence it. You will analyze nitrogen content in the water sample using spectrophotometry. An interactive map will help you determine the source of the excessive nitrogen run-off that caused the harmful algal bloom.
Will you be able to solve the fish kill mystery?
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.