Water lily leaf stalk, light micrograph
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Water lily leaf stalk, light micrograph
Water lily leaf stalk. Light micrograph of a transverse section through the leaf stalk (petiole) of a water lily (Nymphaea sp.). All aquatic plants (hydrophytes) have a similar structure. The epidermis of the petiole has a thin cuticle (outer layer) and is permeable to water. The whole petiole consists of parenchyma cells with large air spaces (lacunae, white circles). The vascular bundles consist of a lysigenous xylem canal (green ring of cells around a cavity) and phloem (dark-green ovals either side of small green cells). The parenchyma tissue contains thick-walled sclereids (deep red) with pointed arms for support. There is no central pith. Magnification: x14 when printed 10 centimetres wide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6282038
© DR KEITH WHEELER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bundle Bundles Canals Cell Biology Cuticle Cytology Epidermis Hydrophyte Hydrophytic Intercellular Lacuna Lacunae Parenchyma Permeable Petiole Phloem Plant Structure Spaces Support Supportive Vascular Bundle Vascular Tissue Cells Light Micrograph Light Microscope Section Sectioned
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a water lily leaf stalk, captured under a light microscope. The transverse section through the leaf stalk reveals its fascinating structure, which is common among all aquatic plants. The petiole's epidermis possesses a delicate cuticle that allows water to permeate through. Within the entire petiole, parenchyma cells are abundant and interspersed with large air spaces known as lacunae, represented by white circles in the image. The vascular bundles within this water lily leaf stalk exhibit an interesting composition. A lysigenous xylem canal, depicted by a green ring of cells surrounding a cavity, coexists with phloem structures visible as dark-green ovals on either side of small green cells. To provide support for the plant, thick-walled sclereids can be observed in deep red coloration throughout the parenchyma tissue. These sclereids possess pointed arms that aid in structural reinforcement. Notably absent from this particular water lily leaf stalk is a central pith region commonly found in other plant structures. This absence further emphasizes the unique characteristics of hydrophytes like Nymphaea sp. , which have adapted to their watery environments. With its meticulous detail and vibrant colors against a clean white background, this print serves as both an artistic representation and scientific documentation of botanical wonders. It highlights various aspects such as cell biology, plant structure, intercellular spaces, and vascular tissues while celebrating nature's resilience and diversity.
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