Relative advantages of low temperature versus ambient temperature scanning electron microscopy in the study of mite morphology

Abstract

Abstract Low temperature scanning electron microscopy (LTSEM) is an effective technique for studying the morphology of Acari. This study evaluates results from two approaches: ambient temperature scanning electron microscopy (ATSEM) and LTSEM. Four preparation techniques for ATSEM were evaluated. The advantages and disadvantages of the preparation procedures of ATSEM and LTSEM are discussed. In general, LTSEM was found to be superior to ATSEM in the study of mites.