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Title: Novel cuticular morphology using LTSEM and Light Microscopic Modifications in some bacterial-feeding and plant-parasitic nematodes.

Author
item Carta, Lynn
item Erbe, Eric

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2007
Publication Date: 3/15/2007
Citation: Carta, L.K., Erbe, E.F. 2007. Novel cuticular morphology using LTSEM and Light Microscopic Modifications in some bacterial-feeding and plant-parasitic nematodes [abstract]. Journal of Nematology. 39 (1):94.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Microscopic techniques used only exceptionally within nematology can reveal new and unexpected morphological features not visible with standard light and scanning electron microscopy. Among nematodes, SEM face views are of special importance in diagnosis of Panagrolaimus spp. Low Temperature (LT) SEM images from a Hitachi S-4100 field- emission LTSEM clearly distinguished a number of cultured species from our live collection. Unusual sheath-like features of the cuticle were also demonstrated in one Panagrolaimus sp. LKC39 associated with tarantulas, and in Pristionchus pacificus PS312, a scarab beetle associate. Other characters with improved quality or resolution included the vulva, tail, and stoma. Six plates at the stoma opening were shown with a range of positions in P. pacificus. The recent innovation of an annular condenser within a CytoViva microscope adapter demonstrated improved resolution approaching that of an SEM for various morphological features important for diagnosis. These included the excretory system in various nematodes such as Rhabditis rainai, and lip annules of special diagnostic value in Pratylenchus spp.