Macrofo – insect eggs
Designed for survival, insect eggs hang and lie where their parents left them. The size of the eggs in this photo selection varies in diameter from 0.7 to 2 mm. The photographs were taken using a scanning electron microscope, which uses beams of electrons to trace the surfaces of objects. The resulting black and white photographs were then modified into color to reflect the natural appearance of the eggs.
The egg of the Dryas iulia butterfly on the tendril of a passionflower is not threatened by hungry ants. With rare exceptions, this species of butterfly lays eggs only on this plant. (Martin Oeggerli)
Shield bugs often lay their eggs in groups. The individual eggs are glued not only to each other, but also to the sheet on which they were left. The tiny growths act like a breathing apparatus. (Martin Oeggerli)
The mosaic pattern on the Caligo butterfly egg looks like a space landing pad. In the center is a tiny hole called the micropyle, through which sperm enters the egg. (Martin Oeggerli)
The red stripe indicates a chemical reaction after fertilization. The egg contains the embryo of a butterfly - one of the largest. Its wingspan ranges from 12 to 20 centimeters. (Martin Oeggerli)
The beautiful blueberry is a very rare species of butterfly because it is fastidious. She lays eggs (as in the photo) only on the European perennial hippocrepis. Moreover, she looks for holes chewed by rabbits to make it easier to lay eggs. (Martin Oeggerli)
This egg has a lacy pattern with micropyles through which the sperm enters. A similar design is found on the scaly wings, which give the red butterfly its name. (Martin Oeggerli)
Fatheads lay eggs on the horned frog. Adults are found in Europe and parts of Asia. The butterfly is no different in beauty. (Martin Oeggerli)
The yellow cabbage egg under the lower leaves of regular (pictured) and Brussels sprouts. (Martin Oeggerli)