Images Dated 5th December 2003

Artwork showing the structure of the knee joint

Artwork showing the structure of the knee joint which articulates the femur (upper centre) with the tibia and fibula (bottom). The knee is a strong hinge joint held in alignment by ligaments (light purple) and muscles; it is capable of flexion, extension and very slight rotation. The synovial membrane (blue) forms a large pouch, also known as bursa, which contains a clear fluid that lubricates the joint and eases its movement. The thin horizontal (purple) feature at centre between the femur and tibia shows the position of the menisci; these are discs or cartilaginous tissue which also reduce friction during joint movement. The patella is seen at centre right

© PETER GARDINER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Great Egret - With lacy scapular plumes or aigrettes

DH-3340
Great Egret - With lacy scapular plumes or aigrettes
Photographed at dawn at Buffalo Creek, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Ardea alba modesta
Inhabits both coastal mudflats and estuaries and inland wetlands and flooded pasture. Common right throughout Australia in suitable habitat.
Don Hadden
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

© Don Hadden/ardea.com