Larva of white butterfly
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Larva of white butterfly
Scanning electron micrograph of a recently hatched caterpillar (larva) of the large white butterfly, Pieris brassicae, seen on the undersurface of a nasturtium leaf. The eggs are laid in large groups on the leaves of crops such as cabbage, broccoli, & swedes. The caterpillar hatches in September. It winters as a pupa & emerges in May as an adult butterfly. The young caterpillars feed exclusively on the cuticle of the leaf until after the first moult, when the diet expands to include the whole leaf. The voracious appetite of these pests can lead to the defoliation of whole crops. Magnification: x16 at 35mm size, x110 at 8x10-inch size. Reference: MICROCOSMOS, figure 3.37, page 63
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6461326
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Butter Fly Insecta Large White Pest Pieris Brassicae Type
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a recently hatched caterpillar, belonging to the majestic large white butterfly species, Pieris brassicae. The scanning electron micrograph reveals the delicate larva resting on the undersurface of a vibrant nasturtium leaf. The life cycle of this beautiful creature begins with eggs laid in large groups on crops like cabbage, broccoli, and swedes. In September, these tiny caterpillars emerge from their shells and spend winter as pupae before transforming into adult butterflies come May. During its early stages, the young caterpillar sustains itself by exclusively feeding on the cuticle of the leaf. However, after its first moult, it expands its diet to include devouring entire leaves. Unfortunately, their voracious appetite can lead to defoliation that affects whole crops. With magnification at x16 for 35mm size prints and an impressive x110 for 8x10-inch prints, this image allows us to appreciate every minute detail of this pest's anatomy. It serves as a reminder of nature's complexity and highlights both the beauty and challenges presented by insects in our ecosystem. This remarkable photograph is part of Science Photo Library's collection titled "MICROCOSMOS" (figure 3.37) found on page 63—an invaluable resource for those interested in exploring nature's wonders through stunning visuals captured under microscopic lenses.
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