Lemon Surface with Yeast, SEM

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SS21051726

Surface of lemon peel (Citrus limon) with yeast cells growing on it, scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Yeasts are a type of fungi that are chemoorganotrophs and use organic compounds as a source of energy (they do not require sunlight to grow). Yeasts occur naturally on fruits. Lemons are a rich source of Vitamin C and the fruit juice is used for culinary and non-culinary purposes throughout the world. Lemons are used as commercial source of citric acid and ascorbic acid. The outer rind (lemon peel) contains zest cells (not seen in this surface view) that are specialized epidermal cells known as trichomes. These trichomes are glandular trichomes that secret an oil that gives lemon peel its tangy flavour. The essential oils or 'essence' is obtained from the peel and is used in the perfume industry. Magnification: X665 when shortest axis printed at 25 millimetres.

DENNIS KUNKEL MICROSCOPY / Science Source