| Abstract: | ABSTRACT: The discriminating capability of a coherent optical processor in identifying diatom species was tested using 25 species selected by diatom taxonomists. A 25 × 25 matrix of auto- and cross-correlations was used for this purpose. In no case did cross-correlation signals approach the intensity of auto-correlations indicating that false identifications were extremely improbable. Shape and height differences of the cross-correlation signals can be attributed to variations in diatom shapes, sizes, and cell wall morphology. |
