Wasp sting, light micrograph
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Wasp sting, light micrograph
Wasp sting. Light micrograph of the dissected stinging apparatus of a worker wasp (Vespula germanica). In this preparation the three parts of the shaft of the sting have separated into the two lancelets (brown needle-shaped, upper left), and the wider stylet (brown) below the two lancelets. The two hollow lancelets fit into grooves on the hollow stylet to form a canal in the shaft of the sting to convey the poison toxins from the poison sac to the end of the sting. The round yellow area (right) contains chitinous plates and muscles, which force the shaft of the sting into the skin. Unlike in a bee, the lancelets are not barbed at the ends in the wasp, so they can be withdrawn after stinging and used again. Magnification: x36 when printed at 10 centimetres across
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6278853
© DR KEITH WHEELER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Chitin Chitinous Defence Defense Dissected Dissection Insecta Mechanism Poison Poisonous Shaft Sting Stylet Toxic Toxin Toxins Wasp Light Micrograph Light Microscope Vespula Germanica
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a wasp sting, captured under a light microscope. The dissection reveals the fascinating anatomy of the stinging apparatus belonging to a worker wasp (Vespula germanica). In this image, we can observe three distinct parts: two lancelets and a wider stylet. The lancelets, resembling brown needle-shaped structures in the upper left corner, fit snugly into grooves on the hollow stylet below them. The purpose of these components becomes apparent as we delve deeper into their function. Together, they form a canal within the shaft of the sting that serves as a conduit for poisonous toxins from the poison sac to be delivered to its target. Notably different from bees, these lancelets lack barbs at their ends, allowing them to be withdrawn after stinging and reused by the wasp. Examining further details in this micrograph, we notice a round yellow area on the right side containing chitinous plates and muscles. These elements play an essential role in propelling and embedding the sting into an unfortunate victim's skin. This extraordinary visual representation provides valuable insights into nature's defense mechanisms while highlighting both beauty and complexity within our wild world. It is through such scientific exploration that we gain appreciation for creatures like wasps and deepen our understanding of their biology and behavior.
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