A simple and low-cost method of monitoring and collecting particulate matter detaching from (or interacting with) aquatic animals is described using a novel device based on an airlift pump principle applied to floating cages. The efficiency of the technique in particle collection is demonstrated using polyethylene microspheres interacting with a cyprinid fish () and a temporarily parasitic stage (glochidia) of an endangered freshwater mussel () dropping from experimentally infested host fish (). The technique enables the monitoring of temporal dynamics of particle detachment and their continuous collection both in the laboratory and , allowing the experimental animals to be kept under natural water quality regimes and reducing the need for handling and transport.
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