[Stereo microscope, neglected tool].

Stereoscopes, in author opinion, are neglected tools in modern biology. This article shortly describes technical and application capabilities of the present stereomicroscopes. The two main types of stereomicroscope construction are depicted: Greenough microscope and Common Main Objective microscope. The technological breakthrough, asymmetrical optical design of stereomicroscopes, the Fusion Optics, is presented too. Because of very wide offer of a stereomicroscope platforms, illumination systems, software and imaging systems, the article contains also very useful factors to consider when selecting a stereomicroscope.