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Soldier ant jaws, SEM
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Soldier ant jaws, SEM
Soldier ant jaws. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a leaf-cutter ant (Atta sexdens). This is a soldier ant, which is an ant that is adapted to its role of defending the ant colony from attack. It has these powerful jaws that can inflict painful bites and kill animals its own size. The compound eyes are seen at right and left, with the two sensory antennae attached to the head above the jaws, and branching out over the eyes. One of the simple eyes (ocelli) is at top centre. Leaf-cutter ants cut plant leaves and use them to cultivate the fungus that is the colonys food source. Magnification: x8.5 when printed 10cm wide
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Media ID 6461744
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Antenna Antennae Defence Defensive Eyes False Colour Jaws Mandible Mandibles Mouth Mouth Part Ocelli Ocellus Soldier Caste False Coloured Morph
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate and powerful jaws of a soldier ant, captured through a colored scanning electron microscope (SEM). The head of this leaf-cutter ant, belonging to the species Atta sexdens, reveals its adaptation for defending the ant colony from potential threats. These formidable jaws possess the ability to inflict painful bites and even kill animals similar in size. The image also highlights other fascinating features of this soldier ant's head. On either side, we can observe its compound eyes, providing it with a wide field of vision. Above the jaws are two sensory antennae that branch out over the eyes, aiding in navigation and communication within the colony. Additionally, at the top center lies one of its simple eyes called ocelli. Leaf-cutter ants are known for their remarkable behavior of cutting plant leaves to cultivate fungus as their primary food source. This particular magnified view offers us insight into both their defensive capabilities and unique biology. With an impressive magnification level allowing for clear detail when printed 10cm wide at x8.5 zoom factor, this photograph not only serves as an excellent resource for scientific research but also captivates viewers with its striking colors and intricate anatomy. It is a testament to nature's diversity and complexity within our wild world of fauna.
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