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Coloured SEM of mother of pearl from oyster shell
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Coloured SEM of mother of pearl from oyster shell
Mother of pearl. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of calcite crystals in mother of pearl from an oyster (shell. Calcite is a form of calcium carbonate which is secreted by the oyster to form a protective shell. The crystals form well organised stacks, as seen here, which gives the shell strength. The nacreous colours seen in mother of pearl are a result of the refraction of light through these crystals. Oysters are sedentary (non-moving) bivalve molluscs which attach themselves to the sea floor and eat passing plankton. Magnification: x2000 at 6x7cm size
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Media ID 6465729
© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Calcite Calcium Carbonate Crystal Crystals Mollusca Nacre Oyster Mother Of Pearl
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of mother of pearl, extracted from an oyster shell. The colored scanning electron micrograph (SEM) reveals a mesmerizing display of calcite crystals within the nacreous structure. Calcite, a form of calcium carbonate, is secreted by the oyster to construct its protective shell. The well-organized stacks of crystals depicted in this image contribute to the remarkable strength and resilience of the shell. However, it is the refraction of light through these crystals that truly steals the show. The result is a stunning array of iridescent colors that adorn mother-of-pearl objects. Oysters themselves are fascinating creatures; they are sedentary bivalve mollusks that anchor themselves to the sea floor and sustain their existence by filtering plankton from passing water currents. At a magnification level of x2000 on a 6x7cm size print, this SEM photograph allows us to appreciate nature's microscopic wonders up close. It serves as a reminder that even within seemingly ordinary objects like shells lie extraordinary intricacies waiting to be discovered. This image captures both scientific curiosity and aesthetic appreciation for nature's artistry. It invites us into the enchanting world beneath our feet while reminding us how much there still remains to explore and understand about our natural surroundings.
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