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Red wood ant
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Red wood ant
Red wood ant. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a red wood ant (Formica rufa). Its antennae are seen at upper left and right. Behind these on its head are its eyes. Its biting mouthparts are seen at centre. Red ants live in coniferous forests throughout the temperate and cool latitudes of the northern hemisphere. They build their nests in rotting tree trunks which they cover with large heaps of pine needles and dry brush, forming hills which may grow to several metres in height. This ant can spray attackers with a poison of concentrated formic acid. Magnification: x10 at 6x7cm size
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9331511
© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Antenna Insecta Jointed Legs Wood Wood Ant Formica Rufa
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a red wood ant, captured through a coloured scanning electron microscope (SEM). The image reveals the ant's fascinating features, including its antennae positioned at the upper left and right corners. Behind them, we can observe its eyes, while at the center lies its biting mouthparts. Red wood ants are inhabitants of coniferous forests across temperate and cool latitudes in the northern hemisphere. These resourceful creatures construct their nests within decaying tree trunks, which they cleverly conceal with piles of pine needles and dry brush. Over time, these mounds can grow to impressive heights reaching several meters. One remarkable defense mechanism possessed by this species is their ability to spray attackers with concentrated formic acid—a potent poison that serves as an effective deterrent against potential threats. Through magnification at 10 times its original size on a 6x7cm print, this photograph allows us to appreciate the beauty and complexity found within nature's smallest creations. It provides insight into the world of insects and highlights how even seemingly insignificant creatures play crucial roles in our ecosystem. This stunning image is part of Science Photo Library's collection dedicated to showcasing wildlife from various fields such as zoology and entomology—reminding us once again of nature's awe-inspiring diversity.
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