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Photographic gallery.  Thousands of particles under the microscope.
California Blackeyed Tick Head Under the Microscope

Mouth Parts of the California Blackeyed Tick

The four pointed and barbed terminal segments are hinged. They begin together as a sharp point for insertion into the skin and then open up to "rivet" the mouth to the skin. The barbs on the mouth help secure the mouth during penetration.

Cross Polarized Light With Red Plate Compensator

Definition/Function:

Significance in the Environment:

Characteristic Features:

Associated Particles:

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tick