A close-up, macro-level photograph captures a spherical, developing fruit of a plane tree (*Platanus* species), commonly known as a sycamore seed ball, suspended from a light green stem in Leipzig, Germany

A close-up, macro-level photograph captures a spherical, developing fruit of a plane tree (*Platanus* species), commonly known as a sycamore seed ball, suspended from a light green stem in Leipzig, Germany. The fruit measures approximately 2-4 centimeters in diameter. Its surface is composed of numerous tightly packed achenes, giving it a spiky, bristly appearance. The achenes are predominantly light green at their bases, transitioning to patches of light brown and tan, with the pointed, persistent styles (bristles) being reddish-brown at their tips. Two insects are visible on the fruit. A dark, irregular-shaped insect, approximately 5-7 millimeters in length, is positioned near the top-center, clinging to a bristle and the main stem. A second, smaller insect, translucent reddish-brown and approximately 2-3 millimeters long, is located on the mid-right side of the fruit, nestled among the achenes. The fruit is attached to a smooth, bright green stem that extends vertically upwards out of the frame. The background is an out-of-focus blur of dark green foliage, muted brown tones, and bright sky-blue patches, indicating an outdoor, naturally lit environment.