Pincushion hakea leaf, light micrograph
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Pincushion hakea leaf, light micrograph
Pincushion hakea leaf. Polarised light micrograph of a transverse section through the leaf of a pincushion hakea (Hakea laurina) plant. This is a drought plant (xerophyte). The leaf is needle-shaped to reduce the area for water loss. The epidermis is covered in a thick cuticle (orange-blue). The stomata (brown with elongated blue and orange cups) are sunken to trap moist air. There are two layers of palisade mesophyll cells (brown-black) that radial sclereids (yellow, pink, blue) help to support. The vascular bundles are made up of small cells (multicoloured). Magnification: x103 when printed 10 centimetres wide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6282052
© DR KEITH WHEELER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Adaptation Adaptations Adapted Arid Bundles Cuticle Epidermis Palisade Mesophyll Polarised Light Stem Stoma Stomata Tissue Vascular Bundle Xerophyte Xerophytic Cells Light Micrograph Light Microscope
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a Pincushion hakea leaf, captured under polarised light micrography. The leaf belongs to the Hakea laurina plant, renowned for its ability to thrive in drought conditions as a xerophyte. To combat water loss, this needle-shaped leaf has adapted various features. The thick cuticle covering the epidermis is vividly depicted in orange-blue hues, acting as a protective barrier against dehydration. Notably, the sunken stomata with elongated blue and orange cups are strategically positioned to trap moist air and minimize water evaporation. Supporting these adaptations are two layers of palisade mesophyll cells shown in brown-black shades, reinforced by radial sclereids painted yellow, pink, and blue. The vascular bundles within the leaf consist of small multicolored cells that transport vital nutrients throughout the plant's structure. This remarkable image offers an insight into how plants have evolved to survive arid environments through their biological adaptations. With a magnification of x103 when printed at 10 centimeters wide, this mesmerizing photograph from Science Photo Library captures nature's ingenuity and serves as a testament to the resilience found within botanical life forms like the pincushion hakea.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.