Electron micrograph of cat flea on syringe needle
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Electron micrograph of cat flea on syringe needle
Cat flea. Coloured scanning electron micrograph of a cat flea sitting on a hypodermic needle. The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) is a small, wingless, blood-sucking insect. Its helmet-shaped head, flattened body and glossy cuticle enable it to move easily through dense fur, while the backward- pointing spines around its head prevent it from falling out. The fleas ability to jump is made possible by compressed pads of elastic " resilin" in the hind legs. When released, the pads spring the insect forward with great speed. Adults gorge themselves intermittently on blood and can survive for up to six months between meals. Magnification unspecified
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6466347
© K. H. KJELDSEN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cat Flea Ctenocephalides Felis Flea Hypodermic Hypodermic Needle Insecta Needle Parasite Syringe
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a cat flea, captured through an electron microscope. The image reveals a close-up view of this small, blood-sucking insect perched on a hypodermic needle. With its helmet-shaped head and flattened body, the cat flea is perfectly adapted to navigate effortlessly through dense fur. Its glossy cuticle and backward-pointing spines ensure it remains firmly attached without falling off. What makes this tiny creature even more fascinating is its remarkable ability to jump. Compressed pads of elastic "resilin" in its hind legs act as springs, propelling the flea forward with astonishing speed when released. This evolutionary adaptation allows it to swiftly move from host to host in search of nourishment. Adult cat fleas intermittently gorge themselves on blood and can survive for up to six months between meals, making them resilient parasites that pose a threat to our feline companions. This electron micrograph offers us an extraordinary glimpse into their world, highlighting their complex anatomy and survival strategies. As we marvel at the wonders of nature captured in this photograph, we are reminded of the vast diversity found within our own ecosystems. It serves as a testament to the importance of understanding these intricate relationships between organisms for both scientific research and appreciation of our natural world.
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