Evaluation of distilled water as a mountant in the slide preparation for phytolith identification

Abstract

: Microscopy is a critical component in phytolith research. To identify and count distinct morphotypes, phytoliths extracted from sediments are put on microscopy slides and observed under a microscope. The mounting material used to adhere the samples to the slides has an effect on visibility and image quality. Mountants are chosen depending on whether a temporary slide is required or a permanent one. Benzyl benzoate, microscopy immersion oil, glycerol and distilled water are few temporary mountants used for phytolith analysis. This paper evaluates the efficiency of distilled water as a temporary mountant with regard to viewing efficiency, image clarity and ability of rotation of phytoliths. Grade 1, English glass) on it. The prepared slides are observed using bright field microscope (Leitz- Laborlux 12 Pol-D) at a magnification of 250x. To qualitatively differentiate the efficacy of different mountants; experimental samples are prepared using Canada Balsam, Benzyl Benzoate, Glycerol, Microscopy Immersion Oil and distilled water (laboratory grade). Canada balsam is included in the experiment, though it is a permanent mountant, as it does not solidify for 24-48 hours, thus allowing movement of phytoliths for observation. Both dry samples as well as samples which had some moisture in them are used in the experiments.