Tool for identifying plant/insects etc

[Globetrotter.uk]

I recently brought a microscope to plug into the laptop from here

www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=266073

As I am love pond life etc I thought it would help me learn about bugs better if I could see them clearer, ok I am only learning so I am looking around the home to see what I can find.

I think this is one of the beasts that feed on me at night.

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh155/beadsnbuckles/gnat.jpg

[demographic]

How much is the Maplins microscope thing? Theres a Maplins just up the road from me, might nip along and get one.

[Globetrotter.uk]

£29 was £49

[Globetrotter.uk]

I have been preparing some tinder from Bullrush plant which I got yesterday, so put some under the microscope.

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh155/beadsnbuckles/20091017163206.jpg

it looks like fishing line

[GreyOne]

Those digital microscopes are neat. I would suggest looking at knife edges, and comparing really sharp to "not so sharp" and to dull edges.
The contrasts, and ability to see rolled edges, striations and degree of polish are quite interesting.
Looking at bark and fibers could open a whole new line of learning. :)