Processing Rates for Canadian Zooplankton Samples

Factors Affecting Rates​

Pricing is based on taxonomic effort — that is, the time required to process each sample. Variables such as site location, sampling methodology, and processing protocol come into play.

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For example, lakes in the Far North of Ontario are extremely shallow, necessitating horizontal tows. Many samples processed from the Hudson Bay Lowlands are dense with debris, making isolation of zooplankton considerably more time-consuming. These samples often take an entire day to process, which translates into a higher per-sample rate.  

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Some agencies require a full list of every species in a sample, with or without measurements taken. For diverse and dense samples, like from the Great Lakes, a rare-species scan becomes very time-consuming, thereby increasing the sample processing fee.

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Pricing is offered with or without biomass included (i.e., counts only). There is no charge for completely empty samples; however, the per-sample rate stands regardless of how sparse a sample may be.

 

​Optional Add-On: Sample Storage Vials​

If you prefer samples to be returned in smaller vials, three options are available at an added cost. These can be added to the processing invoice, or invoiced separately:

• 30 mL Boston Round glass vials with cone-lined phenolic caps

• 60 mL Boston Round glass vials with cone-lined phenolic caps

• 20 mL scintillation vials with polypropylene caps (less expensive option)

​(Note: Both the 30 mL and 60 mL Boston Round glass vials are recommended for long-term storage)

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With all options, parafilm is used on the lids to slow evaporation of preservative over time. Digitally printed solvent-resistant labels are also included with all storage vials, as shown in the picture below.​

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​​IdentaZoop's rates are competitive with comparable Canadian freshwater zooplankton processing services. Projects are invoiced upon completion of a subset or all of the samples, according to contract terms. Typical turnaround time is discussed at the time of booking, based on current queue position and project scope. Note that IdentaZoop's services are in high demand — project slots fill months in advance. Early contact is the best way to ensure your samples are processed within your required timeline.

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IdentaZoop is an HST-registered Canadian business and can accommodate institutional purchase orders. Payment can also be made via cheque payable to IdentaZoop. Automatic invoice payment can be made by clicking on the "Review and pay" button in the emailed invoice to pay via: Apple Pay, credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express), or direct bank transfer. Payments are processed securely through QuickBooks; IdentaZoop never has access to your banking details. Invoices have a 30-day payment term.

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Please refer to 'Shipping Samples' for specifics on how to safely ship your samples to IdentaZoop.​

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​Contact me for a free estimate.