Bacterioneuston examined with critical point drying and transmission electron microscopy.

Morphological details of bacteria collected at the air/seawater interface are greatly enhanced when transmission electron microscopy is coupled with critical point dried preparations. Few artifacts and minimal distortion permit a more accurate appraisal of an organism's cell characteristics and its relationship to its microenvironment. Cell surface and extracellular polymer materials are clearly distinguished in a manner not feasible with other preparations.