[S 7244] Ladybird in flight. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a seven-spot ladybird beetle Coccinella septempunctata, flying over a flower. The outer wings of the ladybird are strengthened into a hard covering called the elytra (red, black spots) to protect the delicate flight wings (long, white) found beneath. These elytra are raised in flight, while other transparent hind-wings (not seen) propel the insect. Seven black spots are found on the red wing covers of this ladybird. The red and black colours are a warning to predators, because this beetle is able to squirt distasteful fluids. Magnification: x2.9 at 6x7cm size. Magnification: x7.5 at 7x6 inch size. (KEYSTONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/ANDREW SYRED) === === [Stockbild-Archiv]