Goosegrass bur tangled in wool
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Goosegrass bur tangled in wool
False-colour scanning electron micrograph of a hooked fruit of cleavers or goosegrass, Galium aparine, entangled in Shetland wool. Commonly known as a burr, the fruit contains a single seed. It is dispersed by means of the barbs on its surface, which attach to animal fur or human clothing & are thus transported far & wide. The fruit may also pass undamaged through the digestive system of some animals. The synthetic material used in the clothing industry as a fastener, is based on the same principle as the burr. Magnification: x5 at 35mm size. Green tint (" leech" ). Original is BW B790/006. Reference: MICROCOSMOS, figure 9.7, page 179
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6288287
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Barbs Fruit Galium Aparine Goose Grass Hooked Part Parts Re Production Reproductive S Eed Cleavers Velcro
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of nature's design. In this false-colour scanning electron micrograph, we are presented with a mesmerizing sight - a goosegrass bur tangled in Shetland wool. The hooked fruit of cleavers or goosegrass, scientifically known as Galium aparine, is prominently displayed here. The burr contains a single seed and serves as an ingenious dispersal mechanism. Its surface is adorned with barbs that effortlessly attach to animal fur or human clothing, allowing it to be transported far and wide. Interestingly, some animals can even consume the fruit without causing any damage as it passes through their digestive system. What makes this image truly fascinating is the connection between nature's ingenuity and human innovation. The synthetic material used in the clothing industry for fasteners operates on the same principle as this humble burr. It mimics its ability to cling onto surfaces using tiny hooks, much like Velcro does. At a magnification of x5 at 35mm size, this photograph reveals every minute detail of the fruit's structure and highlights its vibrant green tint against a black-and-white backdrop. It serves as a reminder of how intricately intertwined our world is with nature's brilliance. This remarkable image can be found in "MICROCOSMOS" specifically figure 9.7 on page 179 from Science Photo Library - an invaluable resource for those interested in exploring the wonders of botany, plant reproduction, and natural structures.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.