Electron Microsocopy

Electron microscopy is vital for the identification of small cells as well as examining details of larger cells. Much of the taxonomy of protists is based on fine structural details such as scales, flagella, surface patterning etc.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows the surface detail of cells.

The diatom Thalassiosira gravida has intricate surface ornamentation
Image: Fiona Scott

Hooks at one end of the common Antarctic diatom, Corethron criophilum
Image: Fiona Scott

SEM of the flagellated prasinophyte Pyramimonas gelidicola
Image: Sandy Melloy

SEM of the dinoflagellate Protoperidinium defectum
Image: Fiona Scott

Kakoeca antarctica, an endemic antarctic choanoflagellate
Image: Fiona Scott

Emiliania huxleyi a Southern Ocean coccoithophorid
Image: Fiona Scott

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is used to examine either thin slices of material to show internal details of cells, or shadow-cast material to reveal fine surface structures of scales, flagella and other external cell components.

Thaumatomastix sp. is covered by intricate body scales
Image: Fiona Scott

Organic body scales of Chrysochromulina vexillifera
Image: Fiona Scott

Details of choanoflagellate lorica as seen with TEM
Image: Fiona Scott