3D model, based on confocal laser scanning microscopy data, of two desmids that have just divided from one cell. Desmids are a common group of freshwater single-celled algae that have bilateral symmetry and intricate cell walls. They can reproduce sexually, or asexually by cell division. Two new semicells develop at the central isthmus and eventually separate to form two new cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy is an imaging technique that focuses a laser beam on or inside a sample, and produces an image from only the point in focus. The focal point can be scanned over the subject, allowing images of very thin layers of an object to be obtained, which can be combined in a computer to form a detailed 3D image.