Air Plant Trichomes (Tillandsia sp.) SEM Science Image

Ref: 80201222



Air plant leaf trichomes. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of trichomes (modified hairs) on the leaf surface of an air plant (Tillandsia sp.). Air plants are tropical epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants for support). Their trichomes are adapted for obtaining water and nutrients (including dust, decaying leaves and insect matter) directly from the humid air, because their roots are used only for support. Magnification x757 at this size (40.64cm wide)