The Particulate DNA Sampler filters a volume of seawater and preserves the particulate matter for genetic analysis of microbial communities after the instrument is recovered. The RAS (Remote Access Sampler) allows time-series temperature measurement in real-time and in situ sampling of hydrothermal vent fluids, while the PPS (Phytoplankton Sampler) allows filtering and preservation of microbial DNA. This coupled system, developed by D. Butterfield at NOAA-PMEL, is now installed in the International District Hydrothermal Vent Field and cabled to the Primary Infrastructure. Because it is cabled, which allows two-way communication and power, the sample bottles can be triggered from shore in response to volcanic or tectonic events.
(text and images courtesy of Interactive Oceans)
Data Products
This instrument measures the following data products. Select a data product's name to learn more.
| Data Product | Code | DPS |
|---|---|---|
| 16s rRNA sequence of filtered physical sample | DNASAMP |
Instrument Models & Deployed Locations
The OOI includes the following instrument makes and models for this instrument type. Follow the links below to find out where in the OOI this instrument has been deployed. You'll also find quick links for each instrument to Data portal, where you can plot and access data.
| Series | Make | Model |
|---|---|---|
| PPSDNA | PMEL/Butterfield | modified McLane Particulate Sampler |
Reference Information
The Core Instrument Analytical Results data repository contains processed analytical data and metadata for a subset of Cabled Array instruments that collect fluid or particulate samples that are brought back to shore and analyzed in a laboratory. Numerical and other processed analytical results are generally provided in spreadsheet form. Associated metadata files including analytical protocols, sampling and recovery notes, and sample log files are presented in .pdf format. As-deployed images of instruments are provided in .jpg format, with image metadata summarized in spreadsheet-based catalogs.
The PPSDN analytical results can be found here: International District Vent Field PPSDN Data
This remote fluid access (RAS) and DNA sampler was deployed at the massive black smoker edifice called Hulk in the Main Endeavour Hydrothermal Field. The green lasers are 10 cm apart. Photo Credit: OOI-NSF/UW/CSSF. 
Primary Science Discipline
Biological
PPSDN on the Data Portal
A Project Scientist with the UW RSN Team, prepares a Remote Access Fluid Sampler (front) and microbial DNA sampler for installation in a diffuse flow site at the vent called 'El Gordo' in the International District hydrothermal field. The instrument is designed by Dr. David Butterfiled and NOAA-PMEL and the UW. Image Credit: Mitch Elend, University of Washington; V14.