Normal Illumination   

Polarized Illumination

Cross Sections of 'ie 'ie root stained with Phloroglucinol & seen with normal illumination (left) & crossed polarizers (right): Note the abundance of birefringent cell walls. What does this tell you concerning the mechanical properties of this root? What does the red color signify? It is hard to pin point the Epidermis but there is only one place that it can be found! Fibers occur in the subepidermal layers of the Cortex & bundles of Fibers also occur in the central Cortex.

Cross Sections of 'ie 'ie root stained with phloroglucinol: These are from the outside of the root. The Epidermis is hard to distinguish because the outer cortical cells have developed thick lignified cell walls (Fibers) that make them indistinguishable from the epidermal cells. Lignified Cell Walls stain Red-Orange. Would these roots be able to absorb water? ... retain water?

Cross-sections of the outer vascular tissues: The Endodermis is at the top of each image but is not discernable. This is a monocot like corn. Consequently, the Phloem is limited to small bundles around the perimeter of the stele. It is surrounded by Fibers and alternates with Protoxylem strands.

Cross-section through the middle of the Stele: The rest of the stele consists of Fibers and Xylem Vessels. All of the cells, except the Phloem, have thick lignified cell walls.