The use of the microscope opens up a whole new dimension in science. By using microscopes scientists are able to get knowledge about the existence of many things never seen before.
Using Micro computed tomography or “micro-CT” these images represents 2D (transverse, sagittal and frontal images) and 3D microscopy, where the very fine scale internal structure of Vespa velutina can be seen. Using x-ray imaging we gain high quality 3D reconstructions showing Vespa velutina in magnificent resolution.
Working towards the objective of attaining these high resolution precise morphological measurements will hopefully help us better understand this invasive species that’s a predator of honey bees with an ability to spread from 2 nests to 10’642 in just 4 years in Galicia (Northern Spain).
Xesús Feás would like to thank Deputation de A Coruna for financial support to investigate new methods of controlling the Vespa velutina, in a research program carried out at the University of Santiago de Compostela. I would also like to thank Estación de Bioloxía Mariña da Graña for technical assistance.
First Published 10/15/2017
