This study of plant anatomy is based on newly available data on the structure and spatial organization of the vascular system of plants. For the first time, by means of a new technique of intracellular moulding, the vascular system can be observed in its length. Many examples are chosen from among the major groups of the plant kingdom to illustrate the vast field of applications of histological moulding: anatomical structures that have so far been little understood or unknown are described and hypotheses relative to the cambial functioning are presented. Following a summary of basic concepts of xylem anatomy, the text is illustrated with many diagrams and photographs of moulds made for the most part with scanning electron microscope. The successive steps of the technical implementation of moulding, are described with precision. The book is addressed not only to scientists and students, but also to professionals concerned with wood, trees, and plants in general.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF MICROCASTING
Histogenesis, Structure and Function of the Xylem
Overview
Histogenesis, Structure and Function of the Xylem
The Primary Xylem of Angiosperms
Advantage of Vascular Casting
The Heterogeneous Vessels
The Branched Vessels
The Secondary Xylem of Dicotyledons
Advantage of Vascular Casting
Formation of Vessel Ends
Occasional Branching of Vessels
The Effects of Constraints and Cambial Deformations on Vascular Morphology
Vascular Junctions Between Adjacent Axes
Vascular Junctions Between a Hemiparasite and its Host
The Xylem of Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms
Advantage of Casting of Tracheids
The Xylem of Pteridophytes
The Xylem of Gymnosperms
Intercellular Spaces and Canals. Phloem and Parenchyma Advantage of Casting
Casting in Spaces and Canals
Intracellular Casting in Parenchyma
Casting in the Sieve Tubes of Phloem
Perspectives
THE TECHNIQUE OF MICROCASTING
Introduction
Preparation of Plant Material
Descriptive Profile
Planes of Section
Treatment of the Spaces to be Cast
Obstacles to the Progression of the Casting Agent through the Tissues
Injection of the Casting Agent
Principle of Injection
Degassing Apparatus
Degassing; Injection
Duration of Injection
Injection of Coloured Elastomer
Properties and Crosslinking of the Casting Agent
Properties of Silicone Elastomer RTV 141
Practical Conditions for Crosslinking
Chemical Destruction of Plant Tissues: Principle
Hydrolysis of Polysaccharides
Oxidation of Lignin
Manipulation of Casts
Characteristics of Silicone Elastomer Casts
Manipulation
Photography of Casts
