AFISHE Lab: Science in Action
September 4, 2025
Armenia's freshwater ecosystems are home to unique biodiversity, and understanding them requires precision tools and scientific dedication. The AFISHE laboratory, opened at the National Academy of Sciences within the AFISHE Project (Development of Aquaculture and Fisheries Education for Green Deal in Armenia and Ukraine: FROM EDUCATION TO ECOLOGY), has been equipped with state-of-the-art instruments to support advanced aquatic biological research. These tools expand the lab’s capacity to monitor, analyze, and protect the country’s precious aquatic resources, while strengthening collaboration with academic and international partners.
Equipment Overview:
TRM 301 Bresser Science Biological Microscope
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.
ETD 301 Bresser Science Stereomicroscope
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.
3 LUM Mikromed Fluorescence Microscope
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.
WS-200AD-4200 Cole-Parmer Water Distiller
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.
-86°C Biobase Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer (158L/348L)
The -86°C Biobase ultra-low temperature laboratory freezer 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. It plays a critical role in sample preservation for both laboratory and field research.
ProDSS YSI Multiparameter Digital Water Quality Meter
The ProDSS YSI multiparameter digital meter is designed for field and laboratory measurement of key physicochemical water parameters. Equipped with interchangeable sensors, it can simultaneously measure temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and total dissolved solids (TDS). Ideal for ecosystem monitoring and aquaculture water quality control.
BA604B Biobase Laboratory Balance
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, suitable for working with small quantities of biological and chemical materials. With automatic calibration, a touch-sensitive panel, and a stability indicator, it ensures reliability and reproducibility of measurements.
BioTek 800 TS Agilent Microplate Reader
The BioTek 800 TS Agilent microplate reader quantifies analytical results in biological, biochemical, and microbiological assays conducted on microplates (typically 96-well and other formats). It offers high-precision optical density measurements (400–750 nm) using photometric methods, with a portable interface and built-in software for efficient sample analysis.
With this modern equipment, the AFISHE lab is not only enhancing its scientific capabilities, but also opening its doors to collaboration with national and international researchers, universities, and NGOs.
