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Insect in amber
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Insect in amber
Fossil midge insect in amber. Macrophotograph of a fossilised midge insect (family: Chironomidae) found embedded in Baltic amber. The insect is related to present day non-biting midges, and more distantly to mosquitoes, and is about 40 million years old from the Upper Eocene era. Amber is a sticky resin extruded by wounded pines and other trees; it traps small insects as it solidifies and hardens. This is one of the few processes by which fossils are preserved complete with all of their soft tissues. Specimen recovered from the Baltic provinces. Magnification: x10 at 6x7cm size
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6369175
© PASIEKA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Amber Fossil Fossil Invertebrate Fossilized Fossils Midge Resin Chironomidae Palaeontology
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an incredible piece of natural history - an insect trapped in amber. The fossilized midge insect, belonging to the Chironomidae family, was discovered embedded in Baltic amber and is estimated to be around 40 million years old from the Upper Eocene era. Amber, a sticky resin secreted by wounded trees like pines, has the remarkable ability to preserve small insects as it solidifies and hardens over time. This process provides us with a unique glimpse into ancient ecosystems by capturing fossils complete with their soft tissues intact. The midge insect found in this specimen is closely related to present-day non-biting midges and distantly linked to mosquitoes. Its delicate features are magnified ten times at a size of 6x7cm, allowing us to appreciate its intricate details. This photograph not only highlights the beauty of nature's preservation but also serves as a testament to the wonders of paleontology. It reminds us that even after millions of years have passed, we can still uncover remnants of long-extinct creatures frozen in time within these precious pieces of fossilized resin. Taken by Science Photo Library, this image offers both scientific value and aesthetic appeal for those fascinated by animal life, insects, paleontology or simply captivated by the mysteries preserved within amber.
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