Red wood ant, SEM

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Red wood ant, SEM

Red wood ant. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a red ant (Formica rufa). Its long sensory antennae are seen protruding from its head at lower centre and lower left. Its serrated mandibles, the biting mouthparts, are seen at lower right and bottom centre. The red wood ant lives in coniferous forests throughout the temperate and cool latitudes of the northern hemisphere. It builds nests in rotting tree trunks, which are covered with large heaps of pine needles and dry brush, forming hills that may grow to several metres in height. Red wood ants defend themselves from attackers by spraying them with concentrated formic acid. Magnification unknown

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Media ID 6461244

© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Antenna Antennae Insecta Jaws Mandible Mandibles Wood Formica Rufa

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a Red wood ant, captured through a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The head of this Formica rufa species is the focal point, revealing its fascinating features. Two long sensory antennae protrude from the lower center and left, serving as vital tools for navigation and communication within their coniferous forest habitat. The serrated mandibles, located at the lower right and bottom center of the image, are prominently displayed. These powerful biting mouthparts enable the red wood ant to defend itself against potential threats by releasing concentrated formic acid in defense. Living throughout temperate and cool latitudes in the northern hemisphere's coniferous forests, these remarkable creatures construct nests within rotting tree trunks. These nests are covered with heaps of pine needles and dry brush that gradually develop into hills towering several meters high. This visually stunning photograph not only highlights nature's incredible diversity but also provides valuable insights into insect anatomy. It serves as a testament to Science Photo Library's commitment to capturing awe-inspiring images that showcase our planet's extraordinary wildlife up close.

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