Feather barbules. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of barbule hooks on a feather from a bird. The flat broad vane of a feather is formed by comb-like rows of filaments called barbs,which project from either side of a central shaft. Each barb has rows of minute filaments called barbules,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 still flexible and lightweight,making it ideal for flight. This feather is from a swallow (Hirundo sp.). Magnification: x1270 when printed 10cm wide | |
Lizenzart: | Lizenzpflichtig |
Credit: | Science Photo Library / Power And Syred |
Bildgröße: | 3500 px × 3160 px |
Modell-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Eigentums-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Restrictions: | - |