Fly eating another fly, SEM

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Fly eating another fly, SEM

Fly eating another fly. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a large predatory fly, Coenosia humilis (brown), feeding on a smaller fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster (green). Predatory insects, such as this, usually use a long proboscis (red) to puncture their preys hard outer layer (exoskeleton) and suck the softer innards out, leaving a dry husk. C. humilis is used by farmers to control pests such as whiteflies and leaf miners by being released into greenhouses

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

Media ID 6461647

© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Attacking Diptera Dipteran Drosophila Melanogaster Eating Feeding Flies Fruit Fly Horizontal Insecta Insects Predator Prey

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a mesmerizing moment in the world of insects. In this coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM), we witness an intense scene of nature's food chain unfolding before our eyes. A large predatory fly, known as Coenosia humilis, is caught in the act of devouring a smaller fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. The intricate details revealed by the SEM showcase the remarkable strategies employed by predatory insects like C. humilis. Its long proboscis, vividly highlighted in red, acts as a lethal weapon to pierce through its prey's hard exoskeleton. Once breached, it proceeds to extract and consume the softer innards while leaving behind a desiccated husk. Beyond its awe-inspiring nature, this particular species serves an important purpose for farmers seeking natural pest control solutions. By releasing C. humilis into greenhouses and agricultural settings, farmers harness its predatory instincts to combat pests such as whiteflies and leaf miners effectively. Invertebrates like these flies play crucial roles within ecosystems and their interactions offer valuable insights into entomology and zoology studies alike. This image not only showcases the fascinating dynamics between predator and prey but also highlights how biological agents can be utilized for sustainable farming practices. Thanks to Science Photo Library's dedication to capturing extraordinary moments from the natural world, we are granted access to this stunning snapshot that reminds us of both the beauty and complexity found within even the tiniest creatures on Earth.

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