A Technique for Obtaining Replicas of Small Tubular Systems by Microinjection of Vinyl Acetate

Abstract

A microtechnique has been devised for replicating tubular systems of small organisms. In this case, the reproductive system of a small marine snail was replicated by inserting a micropipette through the gonopore and filling the genital ducts with vinyl acetate from a flow-controlled syringe. Subsequently the tissue was dissolved and the model was photographed. The technique could be adapted to a variety of different systems, particularly small invertebrates such as insects, annelids and molluscs.