Yes, this is a real image of an ant magnified five times under a stereo 10x microscope.
Captured by Lithuanian photographer Eugenijus Kavaliauskas, the image earned an "Images of Distinction" award in the 2022 Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition for its eerie portrayal.
Kavaliauskas described his work as a glimpse into "God's designs and the many interesting, beautiful, unknown miracles under people's feet," according to The Washington Post.
What makes the image so unsettling is its nightmarish detail — its antennae appear like glowing, demonic red eyes, and its jagged mandibles seem built to tear through flesh.
But this image isn't the only reason ants are a little creepy. For example, some species are known to engage in bizarre behaviors, like vomiting into each other's mouths to strengthen social bonds.
The ant photograph is a chilling reminder that even the smallest creatures can reveal a world as terrifying as it is fascinating.
Image credit: Eugenijus Kavaliauskas/Nikon Small World