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Bee sting SEM
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Bee sting SEM
Honey bee sting. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the sting of a honey bee (Apis mellifera). Honey bees live in a colonial nest. The worker bees use their stings to defend the nest, pumping a venom into their enemy which causes a painful inflammatory reaction. When a vertebrate is attacked, the sting detaches from the bees abdomen and embeds in the skin, ensuring that the venom reaches the most sensitive tissues. A chemical signal is also released, alerting other bees to a vulnerable area. The backward- sloping barbs at the tip of the sting ensure that it detaches from the bees abdomen. The bee then dies. Magnification: x158 at 6x7cm size
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Media ID 9331375
© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Apis Mellifera Barb Barbed Barbs Bees Defence Honey Bee Insecta Panoramic Poison Poisonous Sting Toxin Venom Worker
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from Science Photo Library showcases the intricate details of a honey bee sting. The coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) reveals the fascinating structure and function of this defensive mechanism. Honey bees, known as Apis mellifera, reside in colonial nests where worker bees diligently protect their home. Their stings serve as a potent weapon against intruders, injecting venom that triggers a painful inflammatory reaction. When attacking vertebrates, the barbed sting detaches from the bee's abdomen and embeds itself into the skin, ensuring maximum venom delivery to sensitive tissues. In addition to its physical impact, the detached sting releases a chemical signal that alerts other bees to target vulnerable areas. This coordinated defense strategy highlights their remarkable social behavior within colonies. The backward-sloping barbs at the tip of the honey bee's sting play a crucial role in detachment from its abdomen. However, this selfless act comes at great cost for the bee; after delivering its final blow, it perishes. Magnified 158 times and printed at 6x7cm size, this panoramic image offers an up-close look at nature's ingenious mechanisms for survival and protection. It serves as a reminder of both the beauty and complexity found within even seemingly small creatures like insects – showcasing how they have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in their environments while also highlighting our interconnectedness with wildlife.
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