ID#: 11818
Caption:
Magnified 13X, this digitally-colorized scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image depicted the entire ventral surface of the larval staged antlion, sometime referred to as a doodlebug, because of the trails it leaves in the soft sand, as they hunt for prey. These arthropods undergo dramatic morphologic changes when it metamorphoses into a beautiful flying antlion lacewing. Note the large mandibles to the right, which are used to apprehend prey that unwittingly fall into the conical sand trap constructed by this carnivorous larva. You’ll also note the presence of numerous hairs covering virtually the entire exoskeletal surface. Referred to as setae, these setae are composed of chitin, as is the exoskeleton itself, and are sensorial in nature, providing the insect larva with environmental data, including temperature, tactile stimuli, and chemical changes.
High Resolution: Click here for hi-resolution image (16.42 MB)
Content Provider(s): CDC/ Paula Smith
Creation Date: 2009
Photo Credit: Janice Haney Carr
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Copyright Restrictions: None - This image is in the public domain and thus free of any copyright restrictions.