Cross-section through a bamboo stem, LM

Confocal micrograph of a cross-section through a bamboo stem. Bundles of vascular tissue (blue circles which resemble 'faces') which carry water and nutrients around the plant are visible here. Plant tissue was stained with Safranin O and Fast Green. Bamboo provides a source of food and wood, and is also used in Chinese medicine. It has been used to make musical instruments, weapons, textiles, clothing and eating utensils. Image created in collaboration with Jim Haseloff. Width of image is 1 mm.