Bird flea head, SEM

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Bird flea head, SEM

Head of a bird flea. False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of the bird flea, Ceratophylus galinae. The flea is a parasite on dry nesting birds, such as the Blue Tit. The head (at top) is helmet-shaped and the body is laterally flattened, adaptions which allow easy movement through the feathers of the host. The antennae can be withdrawn into grooves on the side of the head (shadowed area at upper left). The mandibles with long palps (centre right) are modified for the blood sucking habit of this insect. Most fleas remain on the host only while feeding. This flea also occupies the bird nest. Magnification: x106 at 6x4.5cm size

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Media ID 9331373

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Bird Blood Sucker Flea Insecta

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate head of a bird flea, captured using a false-color scanning electron microscope (SEM). The subject of this image is Ceratophylus galinae, a parasitic insect commonly found on dry nesting birds like the Blue Tit. The helmet-shaped head, visible at the top, and laterally flattened body enable effortless movement through the host's feathers. Notably, the antennae possess an intriguing ability to retract into grooves on the side of its head. Intricately modified for blood-sucking purposes, this flea's mandibles are accompanied by long palps positioned towards the center-right area. While most fleas only remain on their hosts during feeding sessions, this particular species also occupies bird nests. At a magnification level of x106 and printed at 6x4.5cm size, every detail in this photograph becomes vividly apparent. This stunning image offers us a glimpse into nature's remarkable adaptations and symbiotic relationships between different organisms. It serves as a testament to both scientific curiosity and artistic appreciation for wildlife photography enthusiasts alike. Whether you're interested in zoology or simply captivated by insects' microscopic world, this mesmerizing print from Science Photo Library will undoubtedly leave you in awe of nature's wonders.

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