HYDRACHNIDAE-WATER MITE

James Sutherland · Post by **James Sutherland** » Fri Nov 30, 2007 4:05 pm

Hello again, I have been busy with a move over to WA State so not much time for water dipping. I have looked in for a lot of great images and info.

The water mite is interesting & I thought you might enjoy something a little different. Panther Lake is within walking distance & this "happy faced" critter was collected along with some aquatic vegetation.

Coolpix 5000
Oly EHA trinoc
10X objective

Ken Ramos · Post by **Ken Ramos** » Sun Dec 02, 2007 5:37 pm

You know I used to find these things all the time but come to think of it, its been a long time since I have seen one here lately. Want to really light them up? Try photographing them in darkfield.

Charles Krebs · Post by **Charles Krebs** » Wed Dec 05, 2007 11:20 am

James,
I hope you are not bailing out the living room in your new home!

These water mites are great to look at. I've seen some pretty neat colors and patterns on the ones I have found. Tough to photograph. The legs are always going every which-way, and the bodies are thick and dark. You did nicely here.

James Sutherland · Post by **James Sutherland** » Sat Dec 15, 2007 10:47 am

Thanks Charlie, Yes I'm fortunate to be on higher ground & not bailing water or collecting samples in the living room...that was a nasty storm here in the NW.

I did have difficulty in getting the water mite to "calm down." Had read they remain motionless in the dark. Tried peeking in low light intensity and periods of light out then looking back. Didn't seem to help. Waiting for slide drying gave the best opportunity. AS Ken mentioned darkfield would add a nice effect If I have another chance encounter.
Stay dry, Jim