A novel way of viewing and measuring Stomata

Recently I visited the head of science at Launceston Church Grammar School, Steve Lockwood.  We were attempting to measure the diameter of red blood cells using a TLI Digital Eyepiece and the TLI Scope software. Once we had calibrated the software we measured the diameter of several cells and then played with the count mode of the software. Steve then showed me some of the images he had captured with the digital eyepiece. One of these images was of a preparation of stomata he had made by coating the underside of the leaf with nail polish. 

The following is his description of the process

 

We have discovered that using varnish castings in red varnish we can use the 100x objective without oil immersion and obtain relatively clear images.

I have used the site indicated below to support my TCE Biology class. Many of the practical activities are first class.  (http://www.saps.org.uk/secondary/teaching-resources/299-measuring-stomatal-density)

My students are comparing stomatal density on the top and bottom of Rhododendron leaves. All leaves work. The students have applied many layers of varnish before using cello tape to lift the casts from the leaves. They then use the cello tape to stick the cast to a normal glass slide. The images obtained are quite beautiful.

My students are comparing the temperature of leaves with and without a coating of Vaseline on one or other of the surfaces of the leaves. If left for 30min before measuring there is a noticeable increase in leaf temperature due to the loss of evaporative cooling because the stomatal pores are blocked. This idea came from the plant phenomics centre of CSIRO. I had a visit there 2 years ago. (http://www.csiro.au/Organisation-Structure/Divisions/Plant-Industry/Phenomics-Facility.aspx)