Frequently Asked Questions about PLFA Analysis

This section was created to answer more commonly asked questions about PLFA analysis. If these FAQs do not fully answer your questions please contact MI at (865) 573-8188.

• What is the detection limit for PLFA analysis?

Biomass Estimates

• How is biomass measured?

• How is biomass calculated?

• What does the concentration of biomass mean?

• How do I know if a change in biomass is significant?

Community Composition

• What do the PLFA structural groups represent?

• How is the community composition data presented?

• How can community composition data be used to manage my site?

• How do I recognize community composition shifts and what they mean?

Metabolic Status

• What does slowed growth or decreased permeability mean?