Springtail, Sem
by Steve Gschmeissner
Title
Springtail, Sem
Artist
Steve Gschmeissner
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Springtail. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a springtail (order Collembola), seen from the side. The name springtail" refers to the specialised jumping appendage (furcula) at the end of the abdomen (lower left). This allows the springtail to leap relatively long distances. Springtails have remained anatomically unchanged for millions of years, and are considered living fossils. They are wingless. The antennae (upper right) are the main sense organs, as their eyes (red) are small and poorly developed. Springtails live mainly in leaf litter, and feed on decaying matter. Magnification x7.5 at 6x7cm size."
Uploaded
May 12th, 2013
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