MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 13, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 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 Almeria 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.
ABOUT THE NIKON SMALL WORLD PHOTOMICROGRAPHY COMPETITION
The Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition is open to anyone with an interest in photography. Participants may submit their images in traditional 35mm format, or upload digital images directly at www.nikonsmallworld.com. The first, second and third prize winners will receive a selection of Nikon products and equipment worth $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000, respectively. For additional information, contact Nikon Small World, Nikon Instruments Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, NY 11747, USA or phone (631) 547-8569.
ABOUT NIKON INSTRUMENTS INC.
Nikon Instruments, Inc. is a world leader in the development and manufacture of optical and digital imaging technology for biomedical applications. Now in its 93rd year, Nikon provides complete optical systems that offer optimal versatility, performance and productivity. Cutting-edge instruments include microscopes, precision measuring equipment, digital imaging products and software. Nikon Instruments is the microscopy and instrumentation arm of Nikon Inc., the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology. For more information, visit www.nikoninstruments.com. Product-related inquiries may be directed to Nikon Instruments at 800-52-NIKON.