Microscopy of living terrestrial and aquatic microorganisms: a simple technique using flat glass capillaries

Abstract

Techniques for examining terrestrial and aquatic mircroorganisms using flattened glass capillaries are described. The capillaries can be left in natural or artificial environments for appropriate periods of time and then removed for direct examination by light microscopy. The interior contents of the tubes can subsequently be observed in detail, using the various magnifications and optical systems available on the compound microscope. Examples of organisms observed using this technique are given, and suggestions made for wider applications.