title: Novel methodology utilizing confocal laser scanning microscopy for systematic analysis in arthropods (Insecta).
abstract: The use of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) for imaging arthropod structures has the potential to profoundly impact the systematics of this group. Three-dimensional visualization of CLSM data provides high-fidelity, detailed images of minuscule structures unobtainable by traditional methods (for example, hand illustration, bright-field light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy). A CLSM data set consists of a stack of 2-D images ("optical slices") collected from a transparent, fluorescent specimen of suitable thickness. Small arthropod structures are particularly well suited for CLSM imaging owing to the autofluorescent nature of their tissues. Here, we document the practical aspects of a methodology developed for obtaining image stacks via CLSM from autofluorescent insect cuticular structures.
authors.affiliation: Microscopy and Imaging Facility, American Museum of Natural History Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024-5192, USA.
authors.forename: Angela V
authors.initials: AV
authors.lastname: Klaus
authors.forename: Valerie
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Schawaroch