Images Dated 13th December 2002

Coloured SEM of head of an earthworm

Common earthworm. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a common earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris). At the tip of the head, at upper centre, is the mouth. The individual body segments can clearly be distinguished. Clearly visible are the tiny thorn like projections along the back which aid movement. Adult common earthworms can grow up to 30cm in length. Their diet consists of organic substances in the soil. They aid the regeneration of mineral supplies, and their movement helps to break up the soil and improve aeration. They are thus vital to the regeneration of arable soils. Magnification: x13 at 7x5 cm size. Magnification: x32.5 at 7x5ins size

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY