The use of biological stains in the analysis of late Palaeozoic pteridosperm cuticles

The use of biological stains in the cuticular analysis of late Palaeozoic pteridosperms based on specimens from the Stephanian Blanzy-Montceau Basin (Central France) is discussed. Bismarck Brown, Malachite Green G, Methylene Blue, Methyl Green, Neutral Red, Safranin T, and a double staining with Neutral Red and Malachite Green G, were tested. Bismarck Brown, Malachite Green G, Methylene Blue, and Neutral Red increase contrast and emphasize differences in cutinization. The double staining in Neutral Red and Malachite Green G enhances the three-dimensional morphology of complex epidermal structures. Safranin T increases contrast, emphasizes cutinization differences, and enhances the three-dimensional morphology of complex epidermal features. The colour photography of cuticles is normally not affected by the presence of stains, but some stains mask black-and-white half-tones.