Bee sting. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the end of the needle-like sting of a honeybee, tipped with blood. The sting is a modificati
RMID:Image ID:2ADNWGH
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Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
2ADNWGHFile size:
50.6 MB (531 KB Compressed download)Releases:
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5100 x 3466 px | 43.2 x 29.3 cm | 17 x 11.6 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
18 June 2003More information:
Bee sting. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the end of the needle-like sting of a honeybee, tipped with blood. The sting is a modification of the female ovipositor, or egg- laying apparatus. It is no longer used to lay eggs, but instead serves as a weapon of defence. The sting consists of moveable chitinous elements, into which the ducts of two glands open. When a bee stings, the contents of the alkaline gland are mixed with the contents of the acid gland producing poison. The tip is armed with backward- sloping barbs, which makes it difficult to remove intact. The action of stinging kills the bee. Magnification unknown.