63x Brightfield
The top line of cells here form the epidermis, the "skin" of the plant. The cells are very close to each other and there is even a wax-like coating, the cuticula, to "seal" the plant. The epidermis is punctuated with pores, called stomata (singular stoma). The cells under the epidermis contain chlorophyll. They are irregular in shape and loosely packed.
The stoma itself is made by two guard cells than can open and close the pore. This is done by regulating the turgor in the guard cells. Under the stoma is an air pocket to make this machine more efficient.
Photosynthesis produces O2 and H2O and uses CO2 . When the guard cells open the stoma, O2 and H2O vapor goes out and CO2 comes in - the plant breathes.
Regards
Ecki
