Jannicke Wiik-Nielsen

Hoverfly Foot, 2018

Scanning electron micrograph
Scanning electron microscope; capture magnification ~x1050

Norwegian Veterinary Institute
Oslo, Norway

This photograph features a colorized scanning electron micrograph of a hoverfly foot. Hoverflies, also called flower flies or syrphid flies, are abundant on flowers and feed on nectar and pollens. The two claws and a single bristle (empodium) enable the fly to grip rough surfaces. The rounded pads (pulvilli) allow the fly to cling to smooth surfaces, as each pad is covered in tiny tubular structures that secrete an adhesive liquid.