Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Emerald cockroach wasp head (Ampulex compressa). It stings the cockroach twice, the first sting in the thorax area causes a short and reversible paralysis, while the second sting near the subesophageal ganglion results in submissive, lethargic behaviour. Frequently the cockroach's antenna are severed to allow feeding on the haemolymph. The nest is closed after the wasp deposits an egg on the surface of the cockroach. American cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) groom themselves beyond their normal grooming patterns when stung by Ampulex compressa. They continue to do so even as the wasps cut the ends off their antennae and drink from them. Magnification: x4 when shortest axis printed at 25 millimetres. | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / DENNIS KUNKEL MICROSCOPY |
Taille de l’image : | 3302 px × 2646 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |