A safer and more sustainable methodology for herbarium specimen rehydration in morphoanatomical studies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36560/19520262249Palavras-chave:
anatomical techniques, leaf, light microscopy, plant anatomy, sustainabilityResumo
Morphoanatomical studies based on herbarium material depend on rehydration procedures, in which the use of 2% potassium hydroxide (KOH) after boiling is common practice. Although this reagent facilitates tissue rehydration, it is a strong and corrosive base, capable of damaging sensitive tissues besides being associated with environmental concerns. Therefore, the adoption of methodologies that reduce or even eliminate its use is desirable. In this study, we evaluated the suppression of KOH during the rehydration of herbarium specimens. Leaf samples of different types (i.e. papery, coriaceous and succulent leaves, either glabrous or pubescent) were dried and subsequently rehydrated without alkaline treatment. Freehand sections were clarified with 50% sodium hypochlorite, stained with Astra blue and safranin, mounted on temporary slides, and examined under light microscopy. The material exhibited structural integrity, allowing detailed visualization of leaf anatomical features. The elimination of KOH proved to be effective, resulting in a simpler, faster, and more environmentally friendly procedure
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