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Flys eye, SEM
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Flys eye, SEM
Flys eye. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a flys compound eye. Protective bristles cover its surface. The eye is made up of numerous visual units, known as ommatidia. Each ommatidium consists of an outer cuticle covering a lens, beneath which is a group of light-sensitive cells known as the retinula. Nerve fibres from the retinula converge onto the optic nerve, relaying visual signals to the brain. The image seen by a fly is thought to be a mosaic image, poorly focused but good at detecting movements. Magnification: x88 at 6x7cm size
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Media ID 6460665
© SUSUMU NISHINAGA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bristle Bristles Compound Eye Cuticle Hair Hairs Insecta Lens Lenses Mosaic Ommatidia Ommatidium Protection Protective Sense Sensory Sight Units Vision
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a fly's compound eye, as captured through a colored scanning electron microscope (SEM). The surface of the eye is adorned with protective bristles, ensuring its safety in the wild. Comprising numerous visual units called ommatidia, this eye structure is truly remarkable. Each ommatidium consists of an outer cuticle that encloses a lens, beneath which lies a cluster of light-sensitive cells known as retinula. Nerve fibers from these cells converge onto the optic nerve, transmitting visual signals to the brain. The image perceived by flies is believed to be a mosaic-like picture, lacking sharp focus but highly proficient at detecting movements. This SEM magnification reveals stunning details at 88 times their original size on a 6x7cm print. In this photograph, we witness nature's ingenious design and protection mechanisms in action. It serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity found within our animal kingdom and highlights how even seemingly small creatures possess extraordinary sensory capabilities. This mesmerizing snapshot offers us an opportunity to appreciate both the complexity and fragility present in insects' vision systems while marveling at their ability to navigate their surroundings using multiple lenses and sensory hairs. Science Photo Library has once again provided us with an awe-inspiring glimpse into the wonders of zoology and wildlife photography.
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