Science for Sustainability: Advanced Lab Equipment Strengthens Research on Armenia’s Aquatic Biodiversity

The AFISHE laboratory, established within the framework of the AFISHE project at National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, is now playing a pivotal role not only in supporting the learning needs of Master’s and PhD students, but also in actively serving the growing demands of scientific research. From sample analysis to species conservation, the lab’s high-tech instruments are already contributing to major ecological studies aimed at safeguarding Armenia’s freshwater biodiversity.

Thanks to support from national agencies and international partners, including the CNF and Rufford Foundation, the AFISHE lab is central to several critical research initiatives, such as:

• Assessment of fish and crayfish stocks in the Lake Sevan basin (RA Environment Ministry)
• Evaluation of optimal water level for fish diversity in Arpi Lake (CNF grant project)
• Development of a restoration strategy for the endemic Salmo ischchan (Sevan trout) (Rufford Small Grant)
• Assessment of natural reproduction of endemic fish species under climate change (RA Committee of Higher Education and Science)

The AFISHE lab located at National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia is equipped with the following state-of-the-art instruments:

 The TRM 301 Bresser Science biological microscope is designed for the detailed study of aquatic organisms—particularly the histological, parasitological, and microbiological structure of fish. It provides high-quality imaging capabilities through its advanced optical system, immersion objective, and magnification up to 1000×, enabling precise and detailed laboratory research.

The microscope serves as a key instrument for analyzing biological samples, thereby contributing to the effective implementation of scientific work aimed at the conservation of aquatic environments and fish resources in Lake Sevan and Arpi Lake.

The ETD 301 Bresser Science stereomicroscope is designed for three-dimensional observation of surface structures, small objects, and both live and preserved specimens at low to medium magnification levels (up to \~80×). It is effectively used when visual assessment of organisms’ external anatomical features is needed, as well as for preliminary examination of field samples or precision work with biological materials. The stereomicroscope offers clear spatial imaging and image depth, which is especially important for examining the external morphology of fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals. The stereomicroscope is a critical tool for identifying aquatic species, determining sex and maturity stages, and observing embryonic development phases, thus facilitating effective ecosystem-level analyses.

The 3 LUM Mikromed fluorescence microscope is designed for examining cellular and tissue structures using fluorescent staining methods. It enables the detection of specific molecules, cellular components, and microbial pathogens through fluorescence emission by fluorophores.

Equipped with appropriate light filters and a high-intensity light source, the microscope allows for highly sensitive and high-contrast sample observation. The fluorescence microscope is mainly used to detect infectious pathogens in fish tissues, identify cellular structures and pathological changes in embryonic and liver tissues, and assess the presence and distribution of microorganisms in experimental samples. Its application significantly increases diagnostic accuracy and enhances the efficiency of expert analysis within the scope of the mentioned projects.

The WS-200AD-4200 Cole-Parmer water distiller is widely used for sample preparation, homogenization, and the creation of solutions, ensuring a consistent and stable medium for research. It allows for rapid and efficient processing of various biological and chemical samples while preserving their composition and properties. The water distiller is applied during the sample preparation phase for tissue homogenization and preparation of samples for microbiological and molecular studies. It contributes to improved accuracy of research outcomes and consistency of samples.

The -86°C Biobase ultra-low temperature laboratory freezer (158L/348L) is intended for the long-term storage of biological samples under deep-freezing conditions of up to -86°C. The device ensures the safe and stable preservation of biological materials (tissues, sperm, embryos, DNA, RNA, microbial and viral samples), preventing biochemical alterations and quality degradation. The freezer plays a critical role in the storage of valuable samples collected during both laboratory and field research, enabling future histological, microbiological, molecular, and genetic analyses with high precision. The use of the freezer in these projects has ensured that biological samples are preserved under scientifically sound conditions, supporting research continuity, data reliability, and high scientific value.

The ProDSS YSI multiparameter digital meter is designed for field and laboratory measurement of key physicochemical water parameters. Equipped with interchangeable sensors, the device can simultaneously measure several parameters including temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and total dissolved solids (TDS).ProDSS is used in ecosystem monitoring, water quality assessment of aquatic environments, and parameter control in aquaculture settings. Its waterproof and rugged design, along with a built-in data logging system, makes it suitable for long-term field use.

The ProDSS YSI meter enhances the accuracy and efficiency of field data collection—an essential factor for the successful implementation of scientific monitoring and conservation programs for Lake Sevan and other aquatic ecosystems.

The BA604B Biobase laboratory balance is designed for high-precision mass measurements under laboratory conditions. It offers a weighing accuracy of up to 0.1 mg, making it suitable for working with small quantities of biological and chemical samples, solutions, and reagents. The balance is equipped with an automatic calibration system, a touch-sensitive control panel, and a stability indicator, ensuring high reliability and repeatability of measurements. The microbalance is widely used for biological sample preparation, stoichiometric calculations of chemical solutions, and accurate dosing of laboratory reagents and nutrients. The balance plays a vital role in the quantitative processing of biological samples, ensuring measurement standardization, error minimization, and high scientific reliability of analytical results.

The BioTek 800 TS Agilent microplate reader is designed to quantify analytical results in biological, biochemical, and microbiological assays performed on microplates (typically 96-well plates and other formats).

It provides highly accurate and sensitive measurements of optical density using photometric methods across various wavelengths (typically 400–750 nm).

The device features a portable interface and built-in data processing software, allowing for high-throughput sample analysis with excellent performance and efficiency. The device is used for pathogen diagnostics in tissue samples from fish, analysis of ELISA and other immunological assay data, evaluation of microbial growth and physiological activity, and measurement of optical density in biological substances. The application of the BioTek 800 TS Agilent significantly improves analytical accuracy and the efficiency of simultaneous multi-sample analysis, contributing to the reliability of research data and the successful implementation of project objectives.

By merging education with active research, the AFISHE lab has become a vital hub for advancing freshwater ecosystem studies in Armenia. It is not only enhancing the practical training of students, but also empowering scientists to generate robust, data-driven insights that support conservation, policy planning, and adaptive management in the face of environmental change.

Through its modern equipment and multidisciplinary reach, the AFISHE lab is setting a new standard for applied aquatic science—turning knowledge into action for the benefit of Armenia’s precious lake ecosystems.