Lemon Surface with Yeast, SEM

Rights Managed

SS2788271

TA4270

Surface of a lemon peel with yeast cells (Citrus limon), colored scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Shown here is the surface of a lemon that has yeast cells growing on the surface. 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 flavor. 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 millimeters.

Dennis Kunkel Microscopy / Science Source