Cactus Spines
by Meckes/ottawa
Title
Cactus Spines
Artist
Meckes/ottawa
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Colored scanning electron micrograph of the spines (glochids) on a Bunny Ears cactus (Opuntia microdasys). These spines serve as a defense against herbivores. They separate from the plant very easily and can blown into the eyes by strong wind possibly causing blindness. Some of them are barbed making them difficult to remove when lodged in the skin. They can cause severe skin irritation and digestive disorders if eaten. The origin of this cactus is northern Mexico but it is grown worldwide as an ornamental plant. Magnification is x140 at 6x7cm or x220 at 4x5".
Uploaded
May 19th, 2021
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