Firefly. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a firefly (family Lampyridae). These winged beetles,also known as lightning bugs,are named for their ability to flash their abdomens. This is achieved using an enzyme (luciferase) to oxidise a chemical in a chamber in the tip of its abdomen (lower left),and is known as bioluminescence. The firefly controls the flashes by regulating the amount of oxygen that enters the chamber. The flashes of light are used to attract mates. Magnification: x6 when printed at 10 centimetres wide | |
Lizenzart: | Lizenzpflichtig |
Credit: | Science Photo Library / Gschmeissner, Steve |
Bildgröße: | 4628 px × 3786 px |
Modell-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Restrictions: | - |