At our algal genomics and synthetic biology (AGSB) culture collection in Halifax, Nova Scotia, we maintain one of Canada's most diverse collections of marine and freshwater microorganisms.
The collection includes more than 200 species, among them over 40 genera of phytoplankton.
Each species is isolated, maintained and genetically sequenced. We regularly add new species to support innovation in biotechnology, aquaculture, environmental monitoring and climate research.
Our collection
Diatoms: Nitzschia, Attheya, Minidiscus, Minutocellus, Extubocellulus, Leptocylindrus, Thalassiosira, Skeletonema, Chaetoceros, Cylindrotheca, Fragilaria, Fragilariopsis, Licmophora, Thalassionema, Coscinodiscus, Porosira, Navicula, Tabularia, Pseudo-nitzschia, Eucampia
Chlorophytes: Tetraselmis, Pyramimonas, Chlamydomonas, Droopiella
Dinoflagellates: Prorocentrum, Scrippsiella, Heterocapsa, Gymnodinium
Haptophytes: Diacronema, Dicrateria
Cryptophytes: Rhinomonas
How we identify species
Each isolate has been identified through the sequencing of genetic markers. Most of these sequences are publicly available through GenBank®, and additional biochemical data, such as fatty acid or pigment composition, can be provided upon request.
Related projects
Work with us
By working with experts from our Aquatic and Crop Resource Development Research Centre, you'll be part of a collaborative, coastal research community advancing the understanding and potential of microalgae for Canada's growing blue economy.
Contact us to learn more about the following topics:
- Purchasing isolates
- Phytoplankton cell isolation
- Microscopy
- DNA extraction
- Sequencing services
Contact us
Caroline Chénard
Research Officer
Aquatic and Crop Resource Development
Email: Caroline.Chenard@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Solenn Mordret
Technical Officer
Aquatic and Crop Resource Development
Email: Solenn.Mordret@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
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