Ploidy estimation by stomata observation
- Collect a mature leaf.
- Peel off the surface cell layer from undersurface of the leaf using a pair of tweezers.
- Place the cell layer on a slide glass, and stain with a drop of 2% silver nitrate solution.
- After staining for 1 minute, cover with a cover slip.
- Count the number of chloroplast grains in a guard cell of a stoma under a microscope.
Note: Approximate number of chloroplast grains in one guard cell is,
2x ··· 2-4
3x ··· 5-6
4x ··· 8-12
(slightly varied depending on species and cultivars)