Blowfly head, SEM

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Blowfly head, SEM

Head of a blowfly. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a Lucilia sp. blowfly head. A female blowfly lays her eggs on dead bodies. This behaviour is studied by forensic entomologists. A blowflys compound eyes (blue) are good at seeing the red colour of blood. Antennae (between eyes) and sensory hairs allow it to detect the odour of decomposition. The proboscis (lower centre) is used for feeding, though not usually on dead bodies. A blowfly can reach a corpse minutes after death and lay its eggs. The decaying flesh feeds maggots (larvae) that hatch from the eggs within 24 hours. Fresh, unhatched blowfly eggs indicate a very recent time of death. Magnification unknown

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6461127

© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Antenna Antennae Blow Fly Compound Crime Research Death Decay Decomposition Eyes Face Forensic Entomology Forensics Hair Insecta Labella Mouth Part Proboscis Sensory Hairs

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a blowfly head, captured through a coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The image reveals the fascinating world of these insects and their crucial role in forensic entomology. Blowflies, specifically Lucilia sp. , are known for their unique behavior of laying eggs on deceased bodies. Forensic entomologists study this phenomenon to determine time of death in criminal investigations. The compound eyes of blowflies, beautifully depicted in blue hues, possess exceptional visual acuity that enables them to detect the red coloration of blood. Situated between its compound eyes are antennae and sensory hairs which allow the blowfly to perceive the distinct odor emitted during decomposition. Meanwhile, at the lower center lies its proboscis - an essential mouthpart used for feeding, although not typically on corpses. Remarkably swift in response to death's arrival, blowflies can reach a cadaver within minutes and promptly lay their eggs. These eggs hatch into maggots or larvae within 24 hours and feed on decaying flesh as sustenance. Consequently, fresh unhatched blowfly eggs serve as valuable indicators pointing towards recent instances of mortality. The magnification level employed to capture this mesmerizing image remains unknown but serves as a testament to both nature's intricacy and scientific advancements in microscopy techniques. This photograph from Science Photo Library offers us an intimate glimpse into the astonishing world of these tiny creatures while shedding light on their indispensable contributions within forensic research fields such as crime investigation and pathology studies

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