Image of Hexamitidae

Description:

Under a moderate magnification of 2000X, this digitally-colorized scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of an untreated water specimen extracted from a wild stream mainly used to control flooding during inclement weather, revealed the presence of unidentified organisms, which included bacteria, protozoa, and algae. In this particular view, a single copepod-like microorganism was seen occupying the field of view, which seemed to be encased in an outer shell of armour-like plates, or scales. If you look closely, you’ll also notice the small grouping of bacteria, which had become enmeshed in a patch of biofilm on the dorsal surface of this creature's carapace.
Created: 2009