Cockroach cercus hairs. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the sensory hairs on a cercus of an American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana). Cerci ar

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Cockroach cercus hairs. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the sensory hairs on a cercus of an American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana). Cerci are two appendages found on the rear segments of the abdomen in many arthropods. In cockroaches they are modified to detect air currents created by potential predators. The fine hairs on the cerci detect air movements and nerve cells connected to the hairs allow the cockroach to process and act on the information. The cockroach retreats by running in the same direction as the air flow it perceives. Magnification: x300 when printed 10 centimetres wide.

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Size: 4883px × 3579px
Photo credit: © CLOUDS HILL IMAGING LTD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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