Hibiscus Pollen | White Flower Pollen | Tardigrade
Jun 11, 2026 • 7:56 PM UTC
India
140x Magnification
Workshops and Events
Aaheli Chatterjee
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Day 3 focused on preparing and observing pollen samples. To make the slides, we collected pollen by gently tapping the pollen sacs of flowers onto transparent tape and mounting the samples for observation.
The first specimen was hibiscus pollen. At 50x magnification, the pollen appeared as small yellow clusters. At 140x, individual pollen grains became more visible, appearing as circular yellow structures. Some dark lines seemed to run through them at first, but upon closer inspection, we realised they were simply shadows and optical effects rather than actual features of the pollen. At 340x, the grains appeared as porous, circular-to-oval structures with greater detail visible.
The first specimen was hibiscus pollen. At 50x magnification, the pollen appeared as small yellow clusters. At 140x, individual pollen grains became more visible, appearing as circular yellow structures. Some dark lines seemed to run through them at first, but upon closer inspection, we realised they were simply shadows and optical effects rather than actual features of the pollen. At 340x, the grains appeared as porous, circular-to-oval structures with greater detail visible.
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We also examined pollen from a small white flower. In contrast to the hibiscus, these pollen grains were much smaller and spindle-shaped. Their darker appearance and distinct shape highlighted how pollen morphology can vary significantly between plant species. During this observation, I also noticed and photographed a tiny insect that had become trapped in the sample, adding an unexpected element to the slide.
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The most exciting observation of the day came from a sample of dirty water. Among the debris and algae, we discovered a tardigrade. Watching it move under the foldscope was fascinating. We could clearly observe its body movements as it crawled through the sample and fed on algae. Seeing a living organism in action made the microscopic world feel much more dynamic and real.
Overall, this session demonstrated the diversity that exists at microscopic scales, from pollen grains with unique shapes to tiny animals thriving in a drop of water. The tardigrade was undoubtedly the highlight of the day and made the experience especially memorable.
Overall, this session demonstrated the diversity that exists at microscopic scales, from pollen grains with unique shapes to tiny animals thriving in a drop of water. The tardigrade was undoubtedly the highlight of the day and made the experience especially memorable.
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