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Leaf cutter ant, SEM
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Leaf cutter ant, SEM
Leaf cutter ants head. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a leaf cutter ant. This insect lives in colonies and uses its powerful mandibles to remove pieces of leaves. The leaves themselves are not used as food; instead the ant carries the leaf fragment back to the colony, where it chews it into mulch. It then adds enzyme-rich fecal droppings and a small amount of fungus from a previously mulched leaf. The fungus feeds on the mulch and the ants in turn rely on the fungus to provide them with nutrition
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Media ID 6461684
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Antenna Antennae False Colour Hymenopteran Mandible Mandibles False Coloured Leaf Cutter Ant Leafcutter Ant
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate head of a leaf cutter ant in stunning detail. The coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showcases the remarkable features of this fascinating insect. Leaf cutter ants are known for their impressive colonies and powerful mandibles, which they use to skillfully remove pieces of leaves. However, these leaves are not consumed as food by the ants themselves. Instead, the leaf fragments are carried back to the colony where they undergo a unique process. The ants chew them into mulch and combine it with enzyme-rich fecal droppings and a small amount of fungus from previously mulched leaves. This fungus plays a crucial role in providing nutrition to both the ants and the colony. The false-coloured SEM image reveals intricate details such as antennae, eyes, and mandibles that contribute to understanding the biology of these industrious creatures. It is an extraordinary glimpse into nature's complex web of interactions between different species. This photograph serves as a reminder of how diverse our planet's wildlife is, showcasing one small yet essential player in Earth's ecosystem. Whether you appreciate zoology or simply have an interest in nature photography, this print offers a visually stunning depiction that will captivate any viewer's imagination.
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