Nickel distribution in

Context Hyperaccumulator plants are of considerable interest for their extreme physiology. Stackhousia tryonii is a nickel (Ni) hyperaccumulator plant endemic to ultramafic outcrops in Queensland (Australia) capable attaining up 41 300 μg g−1 foliar Ni. Aims This study sought elucidate the distribution Ni S. by using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence micro-computed tomography (XFM-CT), complemented with elemental maps acquired from physically sectioned organs. Its Ni-enriched cylindrical photosynthetic stems make them particularly well suited samples XFM-CT. Methods XFM-CT enables ‘virtual sectioning’ sample, avoiding artefacts arising physical sample preparation. The method can be used on fresh that frozen during analysis, which preserves ‘life-like’ conditions limiting radiation damage. It also prevents/minimises other artefacts. Key results showed mainly concentrated apoplastic space surrounding epidermal cells, and some cell vacuoles. finding significant because this ‘free’ solute likely lost sectioning. Conclusions implications case has highlighted utility approach visualising metals within intact organs, may across sciences.