‘Planktonium’ offers a mesmerizing microscope view of the ocean’s tiniest creatures

Tunica larvae (Oikopleuridae)

This one is for all of you unlucky photographers out there. Meet Jan van Ijkena Dutch photographer and filmmaker who turned his passion for plankton — microscopic things “Drifters” of the ocean—There is a compelling short film, Planktonium.

“Under the water of each pond, ditch is the invisible world of invisible little creatures. They appear to have come from another planet, with peculiar shapes and complex structures. The film is a journey into an unknown universe inhabited by alien-like beings,” van Ijken said in Statement of the Director. “Ever since I discovered plankton, I have become addicted to it. Every time I go out with my plankton net, I’m curious about what I’ll find, and I’m always amazed with my findings. Every sea, ditch, and lake has its own bioisotopes, and there are also great seasonal variations.”

inside Short version of Planktonium (below), accompanied by audio by Norwegian artist Jana Winderen, van Ijken offers a demo of the full 15-minute 4K version (which can be rented or purchased as a stream). Also, be sure to check out his soul blowing skills optical microcomputer series it’s part of the project.

“Planktonium” (short version)

Water fleas (Chydorus sphaericus) carry eggs

The ophiopluteus larva of a brittle star

Heliozoan

Pleurosigma diatoms from the mud of the Wadden Sea in the Netherlands