Dielectric single cell spectra in snow algae

Single cell dielectric spectroscopy is introduced to investigate the passive electric properties of individual snow algal cells at different developmental stages. This non-destructive technique characterises the conductivities and permittivities of cell compartments, such as the cell wall, cytoplasm and membrane. To calculate the conductivities and permittivities in a quantitative manner, multi-shelled models are introduced. Dielectric spectra of snow algae are determined by the cell wall which has been found to have an extremely low permittivity of 3-5. Very likely this is a consequence of the high content of Al-Fe silicates and a low water content. Compared with cells and protoplasts of higher plants, the cell interior has a lower internal conductivity.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]