Images Dated 23rd May 2000

Head of mosquito

Mosquito head. Coloured scanning electron micro- graph (SEM) of the head of an unidentified male mosquito (family Culicidae). Its large compound eyes (made up of numerous red facets) are at top centre. Its feathery blue antennae protrude from below the compound eyes, with sensory palps (yellow) visible at lower left and right. The antennae of the male mosquito are bushier than those of the females as they are used to detect mates by the precise frequency of the female wing- beat. The needle-like proboscis (yellow) used for feeding runs down from centre. Only female mosquitoes feed on blood, the males feeding on plant juices like nectar. Magnification unknown

© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY