Yale School of Medicine
Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine
300 George St. Ste. 773
New Haven, CT 06511
Tel: 203.785.5816
Fax: 203.785.4327
yjbm@yale.edu

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About the image

moth

The head of a white moth is shown as seen through a scanning electron microscope. The antennae are visible at either side of the photo. In the center, what looks like hair is actually 'setae,' which are made up of chitin. This essential element of insect exoskeletons is made of acetylglucosamine polymers, and is also found in scales, legs, and mouthparts. Chitin is similar to cellulose.