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Practical- Study of stomata, epidermis

This document outlines a practical study of stomata and the epidermis using fresh leaves, microscopes, and various tools. It details the procedure for preparing an epidermal peel, alternative methods using clear nail polish or tape, and observing the samples under a microscope. Observations should include drawings and notes on stomatal differences between dicots and monocots, as well as precautions to ensure accurate results.

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Elizabeth Gomez
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7 views

Practical- Study of stomata, epidermis

This document outlines a practical study of stomata and the epidermis using fresh leaves, microscopes, and various tools. It details the procedure for preparing an epidermal peel, alternative methods using clear nail polish or tape, and observing the samples under a microscope. Observations should include drawings and notes on stomatal differences between dicots and monocots, as well as precautions to ensure accurate results.

Uploaded by

Elizabeth Gomez
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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How to perform a practical study of stomata, epidermis

To perform a practical study of stomata and the epidermis, follow these steps:

Materials Needed

1. Fresh leaves (e.g., from dicot plants like hibiscus or monocots like grass).

2. Microscope slides and cover slips.

3. Forceps.

4. Scalpel or razor blade.

5. Clear nail polish or transparent adhesive tape.

6. Microscope.

7. Glycerin or water.

8. Needle or dissecting tool.

9. Dropper.

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Procedure

1. Preparing an Epidermal Peel

Select a fresh, soft leaf.

Fold it slightly to create a small tear along the lower or upper surface.
Using forceps, gently peel off the thin, transparent epidermal layer.

2. Mounting the Peel

Place the epidermal peel on a clean microscope slide.

Add a drop of water or glycerin to prevent drying.

Cover it with a cover slip gently to avoid air bubbles.

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3. Using Clear Nail Polish or Tape (Alternative Method)

If peeling is difficult, use clear nail polish or transparent tape:

1. Apply a thin layer of clear nail polish on the leaf's lower or upper surface (where stomata are
more abundant).

2. Let it dry completely.

3. Use transparent tape to lift the dried nail polish layer.

4. Stick the tape (with the nail polish imprint) onto a clean slide.

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4. Observing Under the Microscope

Place the prepared slide under the microscope.

Start with the low-power objective lens to locate the stomata and epidermal cells.

Switch to a higher magnification to observe details such as:


Stomatal aperture: Openings surrounded by guard cells.

Guard cells: Kidney-shaped in dicots or dumbbell-shaped in monocots.

Epidermal cells: Irregularly shaped cells surrounding the stomata.

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Observations to Record

Draw labeled diagrams of stomata and epidermal cells.

Note differences between dicots (more stomata on the lower surface) and monocots (stomata
evenly distributed).

Observe the shape of guard cells and how they regulate the stomatal aperture.

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Precautions

1. Handle the epidermal peel delicately to avoid tearing.

2. Use only a small amount of glycerin or water to prevent flooding the slide.

3. Ensure no air bubbles are trapped under the cover slip.

This practical helps understand stomatal structure and their role in gas exchange and
transpiration.

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