Black Bean Aphid Wins 2010 Nikon Small World Popular Vote
Posted on October 13, 2010
A female black bean aphid (apetrous aphid fabae) with its offspring still inside inspired the public and received the distinction of being the Popular Vote winner for the 2010 Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition. The image, taken by Dr. Tomas Cabello of the Universidad of Almería in Roquetas de Mar, Spain, was the public’s favorite from among the 120 finalists featured at www.nikonsmallworld.com.
Dr. Cabello’s winning image was also chosen as an Image of Distinction in this year’s competition by Small World’s panel of expert judges. Dr. Cabello teaches and conducts research in agricultural entomology, specializing in greenhouse crop pest species such as the black bean aphid, which is unique in that it demonstrates live birth instead of laying eggs like most insects.
“Dr. Cabello’s image – as well as the others selected in this year’s Nikon Small World competition – continues to demonstrate both the beautiful aesthetic and scientific relevance that can be seen when capturing images under the microscope.” said Eric Flem, Communications Manager, Nikon Instruments. “The Popular Vote continues to serve as a meaningful way in which the general public can honor the images and we’re so pleased to announce Dr. Cabello as receiving this honor.”
Celebrating its 36th year, Nikon Small World is the oldest, largest and most respected competition of its kind. It has become the top forum for showing the beauty and complexity of life as seen through the light microscope, and it celebrates the world’s best photomicrographers who are creating beautiful imagery while demonstrating a variety of scientific disciplines. Nikon Small World recognizes photomicrographers for successfully capturing vibrant images that represent the intersection of science and art.
Top images from the 2010 Nikon Small World Competition will be exhibited in a full-color calendar and through a national museum tour. For additional information, please visit www.nikonsmallworld.com, or follow the conversation on Facebook and Twitter @NikonSmallWorld.
