Rapid Preparation of Pollen and Spore Exines for Electron Microscopy

Abstract

Modifications in preparation techniques of acetolyzed pollen and spore exines for electron microscopy have reduced preparation time from the conventional 16-71 hr. to 4-5 hr. or less. These modifications include reduction of agar concentration from 4% to 0.9%; omission of graded alcohol dehydration, going directly to acetone immersion and resin infiltration; reduction of 3 steps in resin infiltration to one; polymerization of resin at 80-85[degree]C for 4-5 hr. or at 90-98''C for 45-90 min., as opposed to conventional polymerization at 60-80[degree]C for 12-59 hr.