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Preparation of nematodes for scanning electron microscopy
Journal of Microscopy
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of nematodes requires specific preparation techniques. Acetone drying and epoxy resin infiltration offered the most effective and promising methods for visualizing nematode structures.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Microscopy
- Nematology
Background:
- Nematodes are microscopic roundworms crucial in various ecosystems.
- Effective visualization of nematode morphology is essential for their study.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) offers high-resolution surface imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate different preparation techniques for SEM examination of nematodes.
- To identify optimal methods for preserving nematode structure for SEM analysis.
Main Methods:
- Nematodes from the orders Tylenchida and Rhabditida were subjected to various fixation and processing methods.
- Techniques included acetone drying, critical point drying, glycerol infiltration, and epoxy resin infiltration.
- Preparations were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Main Results:
- Four distinct preparation processes yielded good SEM images of nematodes.
- Acetone drying was simple and effective for nematodes with skeletal support.
- Epoxy resin infiltration provided natural-looking specimens and showed great promise.
Conclusions:
- Preparation methods significantly impact SEM visualization of nematodes.
- Acetone drying and epoxy resin infiltration are recommended techniques for nematode SEM studies.