TS showing Haversian canals in compact bone. Science Image

Ref: 80017976e



Compact bone. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of TS showing Haversian canals in compact bone. Bundles of Haversian canals form the core of compact bone. Each canal is surrounded by a series of rings of bone (lamellae), known as a Haversian system, formerly housing blood vessels and nerves. The smaller elliptical pits (called lacunae) are the locations of the osteocytes, the bone-forming cells. Throughout growth and adult life, compact bone is constantly being reabsorbed and refashioned. Magnification: x212 at 6x7cm size.