Ectoparasitic Collection

Eyelash mite tails, SEM
Eyelash mite tails. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the tails (pink) of three eyelash, or follicle, mites (Demodex folliculorum), protruding from a human hair follicle

Illustration of Turbo Scalaris, 1790 (hand coloured engraving)
937203 Illustration of Turbo Scalaris, 1790 (hand coloured engraving) by Schmuzer, Jacob Xavier (1733-1811); Private Collection; (add.info.: Epitonium scalare, common name the precious wentletrap)

Sheep Tick (Ixodes ricinus) nymph, resting on leaf, Sussex, England, June

Sheep Tick (Ixodes ricinus) adult, full of ingested blood

Salmon louse, SEM
Salmon louse. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the underside of a salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis). This marine copepod crustacean is parasitic on salmon fish

Sheep Tick (Ixodes ricinus) adult female, engorged, resting on fern frond, Ashdown Forest, East Sussex, England

Sheep ked (Melophagus ovinus), light micrograph. This wingless, blood-sucking fly is an ectoparasite of sheep. The hooks on the ends of its legs help it to attach to its host

Seal louse, SEM
Seal louse (Echinophthirius horridus), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). This ectoparasite (external parasite) feeds on the blood of seals, but only when the seals are on land

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"Ectoparasitic Wonders: Exploring the Intricate World of Tiny Hitchhikers" Delving into the microscopic realm, we uncover the mesmerizing tails of eyelash mites under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), revealing their hidden beauty. Transporting us back to 1790, an exquisite hand-colored engraving illustrates Turbo Scalaris - a fascinating ectoparasite that has intrigued naturalists for centuries. In the serene landscapes of Sussex, England, a sheep tick nymph finds solace on a leaf in June, showcasing its delicate presence as it prepares for its next blood meal. The engorged adult sheep tick displays its impressive appetite by swelling with ingested blood; nature's reminder of these parasites' survival strategies and their impact on hosts. Peering through another SEM lens reveals the intricate features of salmon lice - tiny yet formidable creatures that pose challenges to our beloved aquatic friends. Resting gracefully on a fern frond in Ashdown Forest, East Sussex, an engorged female sheep tick showcases her remarkable ability to feed and grow while attached to her host. Sheep keds make their appearance known as they latch onto woolly companions; reminding us that even domesticated animals are not immune to these persistent ectoparasites. A closer look at seal lice under SEM unravels their unique adaptations for life in marine environments – highlighting how these parasites have evolved alongside their oceanic hosts. Returning once more to the enchanting world of eyelash mites under SEM examination, we marvel at their elegant tails which add intrigue and wonder to this minuscule ecosystem. From minute eyelash mites with captivating tails captured by SEM imaging techniques to various species such as ticks, lice and keds found across different habitats – exploring ectoparasitic organisms unveils both fascination and appreciation for the intricate relationships they share with their hosts.