Taking Pictures Of What You See

Taking Pictures Of What You See

You may be unsure of what you see even if you have the
microscope slides of labeled flukes and their stages to study and
compare. In real life, they vary so much in shape and size that
absolute identification is difficult without experience. Unfortunately
in a few hours, just as you are getting proficient, your
magnificent specimens will be drying out and unfit for observation.
To preserve them longer you can seal the edges by painting
around the coverslip with fingernail clear enamel. Or dribble hot
sealing wax along the edges and then place them in sealed plastic
bags (one per bag). Melt sealing wax in a metal jar lid. Make an
applicator from a piece of coat hanger wire bent in the shape of a
small square to fit around the coverslip and a handle.
Or take photographs. To take pictures of what you see under
the microscope you will need a photomicrographic camera,
which costs $200.00 and up (see Sources). It is easy to use. Remember
to label your pictures so you know which slide they
came from.
Even photographs do not scientifically prove identity of
parasite stages, but it is very good evidence. Proof would require
that the saliva or urine sample could be cultured and seen to
produce the known parasite stages.