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Common wasp, SEM
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Common wasp, SEM
Common wasp. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a common wasp (Vespula vulgaris) flying. Its large compound eyes (grey) are situated either side of its head. The antennae, used for sensing smells, branch out to either side from between the eyes. Its powerful biting jaws (mandibles) can be seen below its eyes. The head and body hair, the legs, and the wings are also seen. Most wasps are social insects, living in a nest founded in the spring by a lone queen. The queen lays eggs, while the workers gather food and tend the young. In the autumn, the workers leave the nest to die, while the queen prepares herself for hibernation. Magnification: x1.7 when printed 10cm wide
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Media ID 9331025
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Antenna Common Flight Flying Insecta Panoramic Social Vespula Vulgaris Wasp Wing Winged Wings Worst Invasive Alien Species
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This print showcases the intricate details of a common wasp in flight, captured through a coloured scanning electron microscope (SEM). The image reveals the remarkable features that make this insect so fascinating. Positioned on either side of its head are the large compound eyes, providing an exceptional field of vision for navigation and hunting. Branching out from between these eyes are the antennae, which serve as highly sensitive organs for detecting scents in their environment. Beneath its piercing gaze lie powerful biting jaws known as mandibles, highlighting the predatory nature of this species. The photograph also captures the fine hairs covering its head and body, along with its six legs and delicate wings that enable agile flight. Notably, most wasps are social insects living in nests founded by a solitary queen during springtime. While she lays eggs within the nest, workers diligently gather food and care for the young. As autumn arrives, these dedicated workers abandon their duties to meet their inevitable demise while preparing for hibernation. With a magnification factor of x1.7 when printed 10cm wide, this panoramic snapshot offers viewers an up-close encounter with one of nature's most misunderstood creatures: an embodiment of both beauty and resilience within our vast wildlife ecosystem.
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