On the 3D reconstruction of diatom frustules: a novel method, applications, and limitations

摘要: Because of the importance diatoms and lack information about their third dimension, a new method for 3D reconstruction is explored, based on digital image correlation several scanning electron microscope images. The accuracy to reconstruct both centric pennate (symmetrical asymmetrical) was shown, independently valve size shape, considering not only general frustule morphology but also intricate ornamentation. Several measurements were obtained, such as surface projected areas volume. These results validated by focused ion beam transverse cross section one valve, quantitative compared with geometric models commonly applied. Furthermore, direct volume calculations reconstructions have advantages, it has higher taxonomic than methods light microscopy; solves problems halos; allows precise measurement all linear dimensions, including often neglected dimension; natural samples can be measured directly; provides an exact estimate cell volume, its shape or alterations due life cycle stage. This approach therefore simple way measure morphological features diatoms, even at nanoscale, applied other microorganisms illustrated means microscopy.