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False-colour SEM of the head of a housefly
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False-colour SEM of the head of a housefly
Coloured scanning electron micrograph of the head of a female housefly, Musca domestica. The head is dominated by the large compound eyes, here tinted yellow, which each contain around 4000 separate image-forming elements known as ommatidia. Each ommatidium is a cone-shaped structure consisting of a cuticular lens, a crystalline cone and an array of light-sensitive cells. The vertical, torpedo-shaped structures lying between the eyes are the flys antennae. The feathery structure emerging from the centre of each antenna is a sensory organ known as an arista. Magnification: x9 at 35mm size. x15 at 6x4.5cm
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Media ID 6461820
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
House Fly Insecta Musca Domestica False Coloured
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate details of a female housefly's head in stunning false-colour. The dominant feature is undoubtedly the large compound eyes, which have been tinted a mesmerizing shade of yellow. Each eye consists of approximately 4000 individual image-forming elements called ommatidia, giving the fly an exceptional visual acuity. The ommatidia are cone-shaped structures composed of a cuticular lens, a crystalline cone, and an array of light-sensitive cells. This complex arrangement allows the housefly to perceive its surroundings with remarkable precision. Positioned between the eyes are two vertical torpedo-shaped structures – the antennae. These delicate sensory organs play a crucial role in detecting various environmental cues that guide the fly's behavior and survival instincts. Emerging from each antenna is a feathery structure known as an arista, enhancing its sensitivity to minute changes in air currents or chemical signals. With magnification at x9 for 35mm size and x15 for 6x4.5cm dimensions, this photograph offers us an extraordinary glimpse into nature's miniature wonders. It showcases not only the beauty but also highlights the incredible complexity found within even seemingly ordinary creatures like houseflies. This image serves as a testament to both scientific exploration and artistic expression, reminding us that there is immense beauty waiting to be discovered when we delve into nature's microscopic realm.
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