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Aulacantha scolymantha, radiolarian
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Aulacantha scolymantha, radiolarian
A glass model of a radiolarian, created by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka in the late nineteenth century and held at the Natural History Museum, London
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Media ID 14238172
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
1822 1895 1857 1939 Blaschka Eukaryote Eukaryotic Fragile Leopold Leopold Blaschka Protist Protista Protozoa Protozoan Radiolaria Radiolarian Radiozoa Retaria Rhizaria Rudolf Rudolf Blaschka Cercozoa Phaeodaria
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite glass model showcases the intricate beauty of Aulacantha scolymantha, a radiolarian species belonging to the Aulacanthidae family. Radiolarians are a group of protists, characterized by their radial symmetry and the presence of siliceous tests, which provide them with protection against predators and environmental conditions. Aulacantha scolymantha, specifically, is a member of the Phaeodarea order, also known as the 'glass radiolarians' due to their delicate, transparent tests. The creation of this stunning glass model is attributed to Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, renowned nineteenth-century glass artists who produced over 4,000 models of various marine organisms for museums and universities around the world. The Blaschka brothers' meticulous attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy made their models an invaluable addition to natural history collections. This particular model, held at the Natural History Museum in London, was produced between 1857 and 1939, during the Victorian era. The intricate design of the model reveals the fragile, complex structure of Aulacantha scolymantha, with its radiating arms and ornate, reticulate pattern. The model is a testament to the Blaschka brothers' mastery of the glass medium and their dedication to preserving the natural world for future generations. As eukaryotes, radiolarians are a significant group of organisms, sharing common characteristics with multicellular organisms such as the presence of a nucleus. Their study provides valuable insights into the evolution of complex life forms and the intricacies of the marine ecosystem. This glass model serves as a reminder of the beauty and importance of the tiny, often overlooked organisms that inhabit our oceans and contribute to the intricate web of life on Earth.
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