Image of Giardia

Description:

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 microorganism is featured, the exterior of which is covered by numerous projections imparting an appearance of a sea urchin. This microscopic pin cushion was teathered to its surroundings by a biofilm within which many bacteria, and amoeboid protozoa could be seen enmeshed as well. See PHIL 11682 and 11683, for additional views of this creature under successively greater magnifications.
Created: 2009