A new, simplified, drying protocol to prepare tardigrades for scanning electron microscopy

Area of Science:

• Zoology
• Microscopy
• Electron Microscopy

Background:

• Conventional scanning electron microscope (SEM) preparation for tardigrades is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment or hazardous chemicals.
• Existing methods often involve complex steps and specialized instruments like critical point dryers or toxic volatile compounds such as hexamethyldisilazane.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a simplified, accessible, and efficient protocol for preparing tardigrades for SEM analysis.
• To provide a cost-effective and safe alternative to current tardigrade preparation techniques.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel protocol utilizing readily available instruments and materials.
• Focus on achieving effective drying of tardigrades for optimal SEM observation.

Main Results:

• The new protocol yields a high number of tardigrades in excellent condition for SEM imaging.
• The method significantly reduces the time and complexity associated with sample preparation.
• External morphological structures of tardigrades are clearly visualized.

Conclusions:

• The proposed protocol offers a cheap, safe, and fast method for tardigrade preparation for SEM.
• This technique minimizes the number of specimens needed for SEM studies.
• The methodology shows potential for adaptation to other meiofaunal taxa, including small arthropods, nematodes, and rotifers.