Macro-microscopic anatomy: obtaining a composite view of barrier zone formation in Acer saccharum

Abstract

The technique for constructing a montage of large wood sections cut on a sliding microtome is discussed. Briefly, the technique involves photographing many serial micrographs in a pattern under a light microscope similar to the way flight lines are run in aerial photography. Assembly of the resulting overlapping photographs requires careful trimming. A composite of many low power micrographs allows for a resolution of the sample that could not be obtained from a single photograph. A barrier zone in sugar maple (Acer saccharum) is used as an example of a 'macro-microscopic' montage. The scope of the montage aids is understanding the condition of the tree before injury, the tree's developing response to this problem, and the consequences of its defense strategy.

Citation

​Dudzik, Kenneth R. 1988. Macro-microscopic anatomy: obtaining a composite view of barrier zone formation in Acer saccharum. IAWA Bulletin. 9(2): 183-186.