Micro-computed tomography and histology to explore internal morphology in decapod larvae.

ABSTRACT: Traditionally, the internal morphology of crustacean larvae has been studied using destructive techniques such as dissection and microscopy. The present study combines advances in micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology to study the internal morphology of decapod larvae, using the common spider crab (Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922) as a model and resolving the individual limitations of these techniques. The synergy of micro-CT and histology allows the organs to be easily identified, revealing simultaneously the gross morphology (shape, size, and location) and histological organization (tissue arrangement and cell identification). Micro-CT shows mainly the exoskeleton, musculature, digestive and nervous systems, and secondarily the circulatory and respiratory systems, while histo

SUBMITTER: Castejon D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6158171 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature