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Figure 3 | BMC Biophysics

Figure 3

From: Hierarchical super-structure identified by polarized light microscopy, electron microscopy and nanoindentation: Implications for the limits of biological control over the growth mode of abalone sea shells

Figure 3

Transmitted light microscopy of Haliotis shell thin section. Polarized light microscopy in transmission of a 60 μm thin section in orientation A. The transition region nacre/prismatic is centred on the microscopy stage. The left and the right image were obtained at the same position by rotating the stage 90°. The structure of the prismatic layer (P) is clearly visible. The tapering nacre structure gradually changes as a function of distance from the prismatic layer. Note that neither the lamellar structure nor the super-structure are visible. P, prismatic layer; N, nacre.

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BMC Biophysics

ISSN: 2046-1682

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