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Fruit bat tongue

Author name: 
Kevin Mackenzie
Affiliation: 
University of Aberdeen
Description: 
Scanning electron micrograph of a fruit bat tongue. This image shows the papillae on the surface, that are used to allow collection of nectar and pollen.
Equipment used: 
Scanning Electron Microscope (Zeiss MA10)

Awarded Second Prize in Spot on Micro Competition 2015

Jury comments:

Frozen latex gloves, feet or fingers may be some of the thoughts which spring to mind when seeing this clever image for the first time. Sensitively coloured to draw the viewer in, with a texture reminiscent of cold wax, this is a beautiful and informative image from nature.

Fruit bat tongue

Full size image: Fruit bat tongue