Use of electron microscopy for soil microbiology capabilities and limitations.

Soil dilutions were studied by different techniques: They were retained on cellulose filters and observed either directly by scanning electron microscopy or after inclusion and ultra-thin sectioning by transmission electron microscopy. Morphology and locomotor organs of bacteria were observed after negative staining. They were plated on various culture media in order to isolate and identify most of the nonexacting microorganisms. Results are compared and the use of electron microscopy in soil studies is discussed.