Butterfly wing scales (Morpho aega) Science Image

Ref: 80200215d



Butterfly wing scales. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of scales from the uppersurface of a morpho butterfly wing (Morpho aega). Each scale is covered with rows of microscopic ridges that diffract and reflect light to give the scales their bright metallic iridescent appearance. The colour is derived from interference of light waves and not by pigmentation. Magnification: x265 when printed 10 centimetres wide.