5:15 PM - 7:15 PM
[O02-P01] Illuminating the invisible: Interaction between science and art in planktonic foraminifera through science photography
★Invited Papers
Keywords:Science photography, Planktonic foraminifera, Science and art
Observing, visual recording, and analyzing the object are common aspects of research activities. Microscopes are used to observe tiny organisms or structures, while telescopes are used to observe celestial objects. Beyond optical methods, researchers often utilize observation techniques that rely on electromagnetic waves other than visible light, converting these waves into formats that can ultimately be perceived visually. This includes tools such as electron microscopes and microfocus x-ray tomography.
The focus of my research is the ecology of planktonic foraminifera, which are tiny single-celled organisms with a body length of several hundred micrometers. Due to their small size, microscopic observation of planktonic foraminifera and capturing their images are our routine daily research activity. Many species of modern planktonic foraminifera have long, thin, flexible structures called spines that extend radially from the foraminiferal shell surface. Some of these foraminifera host symbiotic algae within their cytoplasm, which are deployed along the spines during the daytime. Such arrangement maximize light exposure to each algal cell for photosynthesis. This phenomenon creats an impressive visual when observed under a microscope. It is not only scientifically interesting but also artistically fascinating and attract many people.
Besides my research activity, I often participate in science photo contests as a part of my science outreach, providing microscopic images of planktonic foraminifera. These photographs often serve as a platform to introduce my research to the public. This approach creates an accessible entry point of science for everyone. In addition, It is equally intriguing to receive feedback from individuals without prior knowledge of the subject; through conversations with these people, I often discover new perspectives related to the essence of the phenomenon. As such, science photography fosters interactions between science and art.
In this presentation, I will introduce my research on foraminiferal ecology through microscopic images obtained during my study. In addition, I would like to exchange ideas with participants about the scientific and artistic aspects of science photography.
The focus of my research is the ecology of planktonic foraminifera, which are tiny single-celled organisms with a body length of several hundred micrometers. Due to their small size, microscopic observation of planktonic foraminifera and capturing their images are our routine daily research activity. Many species of modern planktonic foraminifera have long, thin, flexible structures called spines that extend radially from the foraminiferal shell surface. Some of these foraminifera host symbiotic algae within their cytoplasm, which are deployed along the spines during the daytime. Such arrangement maximize light exposure to each algal cell for photosynthesis. This phenomenon creats an impressive visual when observed under a microscope. It is not only scientifically interesting but also artistically fascinating and attract many people.
Besides my research activity, I often participate in science photo contests as a part of my science outreach, providing microscopic images of planktonic foraminifera. These photographs often serve as a platform to introduce my research to the public. This approach creates an accessible entry point of science for everyone. In addition, It is equally intriguing to receive feedback from individuals without prior knowledge of the subject; through conversations with these people, I often discover new perspectives related to the essence of the phenomenon. As such, science photography fosters interactions between science and art.
In this presentation, I will introduce my research on foraminiferal ecology through microscopic images obtained during my study. In addition, I would like to exchange ideas with participants about the scientific and artistic aspects of science photography.