Colorado potato beetle

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Colorado potato beetle

Colorado potato beetle. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the larva of a Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). This agricultural pest hatches from an egg laid on the underside of a potato leaf, and begins to feed. Once fully grown after 2-3 weeks, it burrows into the soil and transforms into a pupa which survives the winter. The adult beetle emerges in the spring to feed on newly sprouted potato plants before female beetles lay more eggs. Magnification unknown

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6466930

© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Beetle Colorado Insecta Jointed Legs Larva Pest Type

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a Colorado potato beetle larva, captured through a scanning electron microscope. The Colorado potato beetle, scientifically known as Leptinotarsa decemlineata, is an agricultural pest that poses a threat to potato crops. In this image, we witness the early stages of its life cycle as it emerges from an egg laid on the underside of a potato leaf. As the larva hatches and begins to feed on the plant's foliage, it grows rapidly over a span of 2-3 weeks. Once fully developed, it burrows into the soil and transforms into a pupa that remains dormant throughout winter. With spring's arrival, adult beetles emerge from their slumber and resume their feeding habits by targeting newly sprouted potato plants. The magnification level used for this photograph remains unknown; however, what is evident is how every jointed leg and tiny feature has been meticulously preserved in stunning detail. This image not only serves as an educational tool for those interested in zoology or entomology but also highlights nature's complexity at its smallest scale. By capturing such moments frozen in time, Science Photo Library continues to provide invaluable resources for scientific research while reminding us of the beauty found within even seemingly insignificant creatures like the Colorado potato beetle.

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