Microalgae Lipid Staining with Fluorescent BODIPY Dye

The staining of lipids in algae cells with Bodipy dyes is much less studied compared to Nile red; therefore, a complex of issues concerning staining details and fluorescence measurements still should be clarified for the species that vary in cell wall complexity. Nevertheless, some general guidelines could be given, and a preliminary protocol of the method is provided based on the existing data. The semiquantification of lipid could be reliable if the staining protocol will be developed and adapted for particular microalgae species.