Field Notes Journal a personal natural history of place

II.2 Comparison of Pollen from Different Species

Aim

To compare the form and structure of pollen from different plant species.

Specimen & Apparatus

• Pollen from at least two species (e.g. grass, rose, pine)
• Needle or fine brush
• Slide and coverslip
• Water
• Compound microscope

Method

1. Prepare separate slides for each pollen type, or mount small samples on the same slide with spacing.
2. Add a drop of water to each sample.
3. Apply coverslip carefully.
4. Examine each sample under the same magnification.
5. Compare features directly by alternating between specimens.

Observations to Make

• Differences in size and shape between species.
• Variation in surface texture or ornamentation.
• Presence and form of apertures.
• Degree of variability within each sample.