Coloured SEM of the feather of a wren

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Coloured SEM of the feather of a wren

Feather. Coloured scanning electron micrograph of barbs, barbules and barbicels on the feather of a wren, Troglodytes troglodytes. The flat broad vane of a feather is formed by comb-like rows of filaments called barbs which project from either side of the central shaft. Similarly, each barb has two rows of minute filaments called barbules. The barbules on one side bear hooks called barbicels (seen here) while those on the other have a groove. The arrangement is such as to hook adjacent barbs together, interlinking the whole structure. Thus the feather is strong yet flexible and light, making it ideal for flight. Magnification: x270 at 5x7cm size. x900 at 10x8ins

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

Media ID 9308065

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Animal Body Barb Barbule Bird Feather Feathers Magnified Image Microscopic Photos Subjects Troglodytes Troglodytes Wren

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a wren's feather, captured through a coloured scanning electron micrograph. The image reveals the mesmerizing details of barbs, barbules, and barbicels that form the flat broad vane of this delicate structure. Each filament-like barb extends from the central shaft in comb-like rows, while two rows of minuscule filaments called barbules adorn each individual barb. In this magnified image, we can observe that one side of the barbules bears tiny hooks known as barbicels, which interlink with adjacent barbs to create a robust yet flexible and lightweight composition. This unique arrangement is crucial for flight capabilities in birds like the wren (Troglodytes troglodytes), enabling them to soar gracefully through their natural habitat. With a magnification level of x270 at 5x7cm size or an impressive x900 at 10x8ins size, this microscopic photograph offers us an extraordinary glimpse into nature's remarkable design. It highlights not only the anatomical intricacies but also emphasizes how even seemingly small elements contribute to overall functionality. Science Photo Library has masterfully captured this stunning visual representation without any commercial intentions. Through their lens, they invite us to appreciate both the aesthetic allure and scientific significance found within subjects such as feathers and animal bodies.

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