False-colour scanning electron micrograph of part of a feather from a magpie,Pica pica. The flat broad vane of a feather is formed by comb-like rows of filaments called barbs (the thick blue/grey lines here) which project from either side of the central shaft. Similarly,each barb has two rows of minute filaments called barbules (visible here in yellow); the barbules on one side bear hooks,while those on the other have a groove. The arrangement is such as to hook adjacent barbs together,interlinking the whole structure. Thus the feather is strong yet flexible and light,making it ideal for flight. Magnification: x50 at 6x4.5cm size | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Burgess, Dr. Jeremy |
Taille de l’image : | 3791 px × 4587 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |