Siberian squill in UV light. Coloured photograph of Siberian squill (Scilla sibirica) showing the ultraviolet (UV) reflecting properties of the flower

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Siberian squill in UV light. Coloured photograph of Siberian squill (Scilla sibirica) showing the ultraviolet (UV) reflecting properties of the flower. The petals, coloured blue, reflect UV light while the stamens (stalked structures) and ovaries (centre) absorb UV light, and are coloured dark. This UV pattern, known as a 'nectar guide', is thought to attract pollinating insects. The image was taken using a digital camera adapted to filter and detect UV light. The resulting monochrome image was coloured on computer. See image B836/2132 for the same flower in normal daylight.

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Size: 4256px × 2848px
Photo credit: © BJORN RORSLETT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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