Swallowtail butterfly scales (Papilio machaon) Science Image

Ref: s012298b



Butterfly scales. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of scales on the wing of the swallowtail butterfly (Papilio machaon). They are attached to the wing membrane by a short stalk, which fits into a tubular socket. The colour of the butterfly's wing is determined by the pigmentation of the scales and also by diffraction of light by the surface of each scale. The swallowtail butterfly inhabits fields and meadows in Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. Magnification: x308 at 6x7cm size.