Animals Gallery

Silkworm, SEM

Silkworm. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a silkworm moth caterpillar (Bombyx mori). The silkworm uses its chewing mouthparts (upper centre) to feed on mulberry leaves. On either side of the mouthparts is an antenna and several simple eyes (ocelli, black round structures, upper left and right). The caterpillar has three pairs of jointed legs behind the head (lower centre). Most caterpillars also have prolegs further along the body (not seen). The silkworm produces threads of silk with which it constructs a cocoon. People farm silkworms for their silk, which is woven into cloth. Magnification: x25 when printed 10cm wide

© Eye Of Science/Science Photo Library

Hind limb of a pipistrelle bat

Hind limb of a pipistrelle bat (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). A bat's limbs are not strong enough to support its weight for very long when standing or walking. However, the curved toes and claws are adapted to allow the bat to grip tightly to objects, meaning it can hang upside down even when asleep. Bats are the only mammals in the world naturally capable of flight. About 70 per cent of bats are insectivorous, and many are nocturnal

© Steve Gschmeissner/Science Photo Library

Human flea, SEM

Human flea. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a human flea (Pulex irritans). At upper centre are two sensory palps. At centre are the mouthparts, which pierce the skin to enable the flea to suck the blood of its host. Fleas are external parasites that may carry and transmit diseases, including the plaque. The itchiness associated with a flea bite is mainly due to an allergic reaction to the flea's saliva or faeces that have been deposited near the bite and rubbed into it by scratching. Fleas only remain on their host whilst feeding

© Steve Gschmeissner/Science Photo Library