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Heliosphaera actinota, radiolarian
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Heliosphaera actinota, 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 14238184
© 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 Heliosphaera actinota, a radiolarian species belonging to the Aulosphaeridae family. Radiolarians are a group of protists, characterized by their radial symmetry and the presence of a silica test or skeleton. Heliosphaera actinota, also known as Phaeosphaeria actinota, is a member of the Phaeodarea or Phaeodarian subclass, which is characterized by the presence of a gelatinous sheath surrounding the silica test. This stunning glass model was meticulously crafted by Leopold Blaschka (1822-1895) and his son Rudolf Blaschka (1857-1939) in the late nineteenth century. The Blaschka father-son team were renowned for their intricately detailed glass models of marine invertebrates, plants, and other natural specimens. Their models were created using various glass techniques and were highly prized for their beauty and accuracy. Heliosphaera actinota is depicted in this model with its characteristic radial symmetry, featuring eight arms or rays extending from the central body. The model also reveals the delicate, intricate details of the radiolarian's test, which is adorned with small, radiating spicules. The Blaschka's glass model provides a fascinating glimpse into the microscopic world of radiolarians, showcasing their fragile and intricate structures that are otherwise difficult to observe in their natural habitat. This historical artifact is now held in the esteemed collections of the Natural History Museum in London, where it continues to captivate and inspire visitors. The Blaschka glass models are a testament to the Victorian era's fascination with the natural world and the lengths to which scientists and artists went to explore and document it. This Heliosphaera actinota model is a reminder of the rich history of scientific inquiry and the beauty of the natural world, which continues to inspire and intrigue us today.
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