Anaglyphs: Mimivirus in 3D

This image is an anaglyph in which a stereo image pair is combined into a single image using colour to separate the two views. To see the 3D stereo effect, you will need to use red green colour filter glasses (red for your left eye and green for your right eye). Such glasses can be obtained from your optometrist or specialty supplier. It is worth obtaining high quality anaglyphic glasses to achieve the best possible sense of depth. Cheap filters can often be found in novelty 3-D books. SEE HOW ANAGLYPHS ARE MADE.

Mimiviruses: largest known viruses (even bigger than some single-cell organisms). They are icosahedral and contain a double stranded DNA genome. The capsid is covered by fibres (fibers) that radiate outwards imparting a bacteria-like outer surface to the organism. In fact it takes up the Gram stain (like Gram positive bacteria) causing early confusion. Mimivirus has been implicated in some cases of pneumonia. Originally found in amoeba.

See an animation of mimivirus.