ID#: 11796
Caption:
Magnified 114X, approximately twice that of PHIL 11795, this scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image depicted the ventral abdominal surface of the larval staged antlion, sometimes referred to as a doodlebug, because of the trails it leaves in the soft sand as it hunts for prey. This arthropod undergoes dramatic morphologic changes when it metamorphoses into a beautiful flying antlion lacewing. The entire ventral surface is visible in PHIL 11793, including the large mandibles, which are used to apprehend prey that unwittingly fall into the conical sand trap constructed by this carnivorous larva. Note the presence of numerous hairs covering virtually the entire exoskeletal surface. Referred to as setae, these hairs 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 (5.5 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.