Confocal laser scanning microscopy: using cuticular autofluorescence for high resolution morphological imaging in small crustaceans.

Michels, Jan (2007) Confocal laser scanning microscopy: using cuticular autofluorescence for high resolution morphological imaging in small crustaceans. Journal of Microscopy, 227 (1). pp. 1-7. DOI 10.1111/j.1365-2818.2007.01787.x.

[thumbnail of Michels.pdf] Text
Michels.pdf - Published Version
Restricted to Registered users only

Download (6MB) | Contact

Supplementary data:

Abstract

The utility of cuticular autofluorescence for the visualization of copepod morphology by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was examined. Resulting maximum intensity projections give very accurate information on morphology and show even diminutive structures such as small setae in detail. Furthermore, CLSM enables recognition of internal structures and differences in material composition. Optical sections in all layers and along all axes of the specimens can be obtained by CLSM. The facile and rapid preparation method bears no risk of artefacts or damage occurring to the preparations and the visualized specimens can be used for later analyses allowing for the investigation of irreplaceable type specimens or parts of them. These features make CLSM a very effective tool for both taxonomical and ecological studies in small crustaceans; however, the maximum thickness of the specimens is limited to a few hundred micrometers. Three-dimensional models based on CLSM image stacks allow observation of the preparations from all angles and can permit, improve and speed up studies on functional morphology. The visualization method described has a strong potential to become a future standard technique in aquatic biology due to its advantages over conventional light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

Document Type: Article
Keywords: 3D modelling; confocal laser scanning microscopy; copepods; cuticular autofluorescence; morphological imaging; small crustaceans
Refereed: Yes
Open Access Journal?: No
Publisher: Wiley
Date Deposited: 27 Jan 2015 12:06
Last Modified: 22 Jul 2020 09:12
URI: https://oceanrep.geomar.de/id/eprint/27077

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item