Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

hi,

I’m working on bioluminescent marine bacteria. I want to measure its bioluminescence. I try to get luminometer but i couldn’t. Is there any method that can i use it for measuring the bioluminescence quantitatively. thank you

Hi,

You don't need a fancy luminometer to measure light intensity, just a meter that is sensitive enough. The brightness of the light will depend on the type of bacteria and the conditions of their growth. There are light meter apps that you can download for a smart phone and try. Look for ones that say they can read in low light.

If you have tools and are handy at building things, there are plans online for making light meters. Here are some examples but you can do a search and find more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNgsjSUKBNg
http://www.instructables.com/id/Cheap-L ... -then-3-p/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47cdiDrc0xk

I hope this helps. Post again if you need help.

Good luck!

Sybee