I am analyzing a sample of a bloom of a naked dinoflagellate with electron microscopy but, despite the standard preparation for naked dinoflagellates to be analyzed by SEM (ethanol series), the cells are covered with abundant mucilaginous material produced by the cells themselves during the bloom. I can not see the cell surface and the apical groove for taxonomic identification. The sample is already fixed by Lugol.
Any information would be a great help, thank you.
Is it possible to wash gently wash them with a soap then a rinse on a screen?
Hi Lea,
Have you tried using the CTAB? I have used for desmids in SEM studies, but it works pretty well also for other groups like dinoflagellates.
Before starting the SEM protocol, use a CTAB 2 % solution during 24h to remove the mucilage surrounding the cells.
More information on this method you can find in the following reference:
Tavera, R. & Calderón, E. (2013) Use of CTAB as a cost-effective solution to an old problem: the interference of the mucilage of desmids for scanning electron microscopy. Phycologia 52 (5): 1–5. https://doi.org/10.2216/13-133.1
Best regards,
Geraldo.
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