Flea anatomy observed by van Leeuwenhoek, described in a letter of 1693. At top left is the larva and pupa, with the adult flea (Pulex irritans) at far left. Also shown are the genitals and abdominal endparts (lower left and lower centre), the mouthparts (centre), a hind leg (right), copulation (far right), and the flask used to study the fleas (bottom right). Dutch scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723) built his own microscopes and was able to study the natural world in greater detail than was previously possible. His observations included protozoa, bacteria, insects, plants, minerals, blood cells, and sperm. His earliest observations were published in 1673, and over the next 50 years he self-published and wrote hundreds of letters detailing his discoveries. This page is from Letter 76 to the Royal Society (written 15 October 1693) and later published in 'Vierde Vervolg' (1694). |