Elemental Mapping of Cryosections from Cnidarian Nematocytes

Authors

Karl Zierold, Max-Planck-Institut für Systemphysiologie, Germany
Pierre Tardent, University of Zürich-Irchel, Switzerland
Sergey V. Buravkov, Moscow Institute for Radiotechnics, Electronics and Automation

Abstract

The distribution of elements in stinging capsules containing cells called nematocytes is shown by pseudocoloured maps representing the X-ray intensity collected from freeze-dried cryosections. This method provides a distinct overview in addition to the quantitative evaluation of single X-ray spectra. Selected examples illustrate the elemental compartmentation in various cnidarian animals. In particular the matrix of capsules in Hydra vulgaris contains high amounts of K in comparison to the tubule, the surrounding capsule wall and the cytoplasm, whereas in Actinia eguina capsules have either high concentration of Ca or Mg, the latter accompanied by S.

Recommended Citation

Zierold, Karl; Tardent, Pierre; and Buravkov, Sergey V. (1991) "Elemental Mapping of Cryosections from Cnidarian Nematocytes," Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 5: No. 2, Article 12.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol5/iss2/12