4 ASE Prenton on pedty Seog ait octane) sath a i Raa kt ae sii. 4 ine ret he atria! Ay te 43 v9 2! 4 Ah Sass % Eres ot Peat a ? bs ga tg gti =< : We - ee : 9 i i PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES SS u OF PHILADELPHIA. ye pe a Og Se Ow PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED FOR THE ACADEMY, By Merrihew & Thompson, 7 Carters’s Alley. 1848. Cha, “ waghinioe stkbe TAY HO ea 1a 4) APIS ATE OS a Re A 3 are me 3 ’ ' val A wif tt LY, AUphbseas cr - Sy EVary, eat AUG 0 ETMERY ; ah «mht Y abit 2 Sonepat w i | SHER, ; PJ “iz om INDEX TO VOLUME IIL. ete owe RAT Ra Cassin, John, don. to mus., 12, 239; On an instinct probably possessed by the Herons, (Ardea, L.,) 137;- description of a new rapacious bird in the Museum of Acad. of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, 199; de- scription of a new Buceros, and a notice of the Buceros elatus,Temm. 330; description of three new spe- American Philosophical Society, don. cies of the genus Icterus, Briss.,332. of proceedings of, 89, 119, 218. Churchman, John, don. to mus., 36. Abadie, Dr., don. to mus., 10. American Acad. of Arts and Sciences} Cincinnati Horticultural Society, Abert, Col., don to lib., 141. Abert, Lieut., don. to mus., 210. Academy of Sciences of Munich, don. to lib. of memoirs of, 78, 260. Adams, C. B., don. to lib., 9, 117, 196; don. to mus., 213. Agassiz, M., don. to lib., 117. Alger, Francis, don. to lib., 38. of Boston, don. of memoirs of, 98,/ don. to lib., 89. 142, 190, 196, 270. Cincinnati Society of Pennsylvania, American Journal of Agriculture and| don. to lib., 237. Science, don. of by editors, 38, 50,) Committees, Scientific, for 1846, 13; 184, 220, 240, 256, 309, 329. for 1847, 144. Annales des Mines, 68, 141. Committee to inquire into the con- Ashmead, Samuel, don. to lib., 316; dition of the bequest of the late don. to mus., 329. Wm. 8.Warder, Esq., to the Acad., 195. Committee to examine into the expe- diency of converting the lecture room into a portion of the museum, 252. Committee to confer with M. Vatte- mare on the subject of exchange, 274. Bachman, Rev. Dr., communication from, 184. Baker, Capt. H. F., don. to mus., 303. Balfour, Dr. E., don. to lib., 269. Barratt, Dr. Joseph, don. to lib., 98. Beasley, Thomas, don. to mus., 193. Bell, Jonn, don. to mus., 193. Blanding, Dr. Wm., don. to lib., 37,; Committee on Mr. Conrad’s descrip- 70, 208. tions of new fossil and recent Bonaparte, Chas. L., don. tolib.,232.) shells of the United States, 10; on Bossange, Edward, don. to lib., 261. a paper by Mr. Phillips, describing Boston Society of Natural History,; new fresh water shells, 12; on Dr. don. of proceedings of, 50, 68, 89, R. W. Gibbes’ paper ‘on the fossil 187, 237; of journal, 194. Squalidz of the Eocene of the U.S., Boudin, Dr., of Paris, don. to lib.,14.| 29; on Mr. E. Harris’ paper on the Bridges, Dr. R., don. to lib., 275, difference of level between the British Association, don. to lib., 98.) waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Bronn, Prof., don to mus., 274. those of the Atlantic Ocean, 30; on Browne, Peter A., don. to lib., 218,| Prof. Locke’s notice of a new As- 304; don. to mus., 303. terias from the blue limestone of Burmeister, Hleermann, don. to lib.,] Cincinnati, 30; on Mr. Gambel’s 327. ‘‘Remarks on the Birds of Upper By-laws, ameadments to, 128, 252. California,” 40; on Dr. Morton’s description of two new species of Calcutta Journal of Natural History,| Echinodermata, from the Eocene of don. of by editors, 231. the U.S., 41; on Dr. E. Hallow- iV. ell’s paper on the anatomy of the Harpyia destructor, 49; on Dr. Hallowell’s description of a new | bat from Western Africa, 50; on| Dr. Leidy’s ‘“‘ Remarks on the ana- tomy of the abdominal viscera of | the Sloth,’’50; on Dr. Leidy’s paper | on the anatomy of Spectrum femo- ratum, 68; on Prof. Haldeman’s de- scription of Unio abacoides, 71; on | Dr. Leidy’s description of a new | genus and species of Entozoa, 91; on Prof. Owen’s “ Observations on | fossils from the Brunswick Canal, | Geo., in the cabinet of the Acad. | of Nat. Sciences of Eirade rae | 92; on Dr. Morton’s description of | two living bybrid birds, between Gallus and Numida, 97; on Dr. Leidy’s paper on the mechanism which closes the membranouswings of the genus Locusta, 98; on Prof. Haldeman’s paper on several new genera and species of insects, 115; on Mr. Cassin’s ‘‘Note on an in- stinct supposed to be possessed by the Herons, especially the genus Ardea, L.,” 123; on a paper by Mr: Grant,of Philadelphia,on hybridity | in animals, 130; on Dr. Leidy’s paper on the situation of the ol- factory sense in the terrestrial tribe of the gasteropodous mollusca, 132; ona paper by Prof. Haldeman describing one new genus, and several new species of insects, 147; on Mr. Germain’s paper on some ef- fects of Electricity and Galvanism, | having seeming analogy to the INDEX. fay and Ampere,” 219; on Dr. Leidy's paper “on the natural his- tory of Belostoma,”? 231; on Major McCall’s description of a new Pigeon from Mexico, 231; on Prof. Haldeman's “ descriptions of Cole- optera, chiefly in the cabinet of Dr. J. L. Le Conte,’ 239; on Dr. Mor- ton’s memoir on the position of the ear in ancient statuary and paint- ings, 243; on Prof. Haldeman’s de- scriptions of new Coleopterons in- sects of the United States, 244; on Dr.Leidy’s description and anatomy of a new subgenus of Planaria,246; on Dr. Leidy’s paper on two new species of Planaria, 247; on Dr. Gibbes’ description of new Squa- lide from the Tertiary of South Carolina, 259; on Dr. Hallowell’s description of a new Coluber, 26: ; on Dr. Leidy’s paper on the Fossil horse of America, 261; on Mr. Conrad’s “Observations on the Eo- cene formation and descriptions of 105 new fossils from the vicinity of Vicksburg, Miss.,” 276; on Prof. Haldeman’s description of a new Unio, 312; on Dr. Leidy’s paper on & new genus and species of fossil Ruminants, Poébrotherium Wilsoni 318; on Dr. Hallowell’s paper on the horned viper of Western Africa, 318; on Mr. Cassin’s paper on two species of Buceros, probably new, &c., 328; on Mr. Cassin’s descrip- tions of three species of the genus Icterus, presumed to be new, &c., 329," purification and circulation of the Conrad, T. A., don. to mus., 236, 239, blood, 147; on Mr..Tuomey’s notice of the cranium of Zeuglodon cetoi-| des found near Charlestown, S.C., 149; on P. A. Browne’s paper pro- | posing a new nomenclature for the | class mammalia, 192; on Mr. Cas-| sin’s description ofa new rapacious | bird in the collection of the Acad. 255, 269; don. to lib., 256, 261; descriptions of new species of fos- sil and recent shells and corals, 19 ; observations on the Eocene forma- tion, and description of 105 new fossils of that period, from the vi- cinity of Vicksburg, Miss., 280. of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia | Correspondents elected : 198: on Dr. Gibbes’ description of, fossil remains from the Eocene! { green sand of South Carolina, 198; | on Lieut. Abert’s description of a new Quail, from New Mexico, 209 ; on Dr. Le Conte’s paper, “ Frag- menta Entomologica, 212; on Dr. Hare’s paper, “Objections to the electrical theories of Franklin, Du- Aall Nicolai, Christiana, Sweden, 48. Adams, Prof. C. B., Vermont, 115. Baird, Wm. M., Reading, Pennsyl- vania, 48. Barratt, Dr. J.H., South Carolina, 145. Brevoort, J. Carson, New York, 222. INDEX. v. Bromfield, Dr. Wm. A, Isle of Wight, 193. Brown, Richard, Cape Breton, N. S.,.129. Chipman, Prof. Isaac L., Nova | Scotia, 213. Davis, Dr. Edwin H., Chilicothe, Ohio, 222. Dawson, J. W., Pictou, N.S., 129. Delafield, Major Joseph, New York, 96 ; Eyton, Thomas C., London, 139. Farraday, Michael, Loudon, 349. Gourlie, Wm., Jr., Glasgow, 48. Gray, Geo. Robert, London, 139. Hammond, Ogden, Charleston, S. C., 193. : Harden, Dr. John M. B., Liberty Co., Georgia, 96. Herschell, Sir J. F. W., London, 349, Jackson, Dr. J. B. S., Boston, 115. Kippist, Richard, London, 139. Korthals, Dr. P. W., Leyden, 299. Lawrence, George N., New York, 213. Logan, Wm. E., Canada, 129. Lonsdale, Wm., London, 349. McCall, Major Geo. A., 222. Nicholson, Dr. Charles, Sydney, New South Wales, 14. Nillson, Prof., Lund, Sweden, 349. Retzius, Dr. Andreas, Stockholm, 129. Redfield, J. H., New York, 96. Robb, James, Frederickton, N. B., 129. Savage, Rev. Thomas S8., Cape Palmas, Africa, 35. Selby, Prideaux John, Northum- beriand, England, 349. Smith, Dr. J. Lawrence, Charles- ton, 8. C., 96. Smith, Charles Hamilton, London, 139. Squier, E. George, Chilicothe, O., 222. Sturm, Jacob, Nuremberg, 269. Verneuil, M. de, Paris, 88. Von Gerolt, Baron, Prussia, 14. Wilson, Edward, Wales, Eng., 88. Zuccarini, Prof. Joseph, Munich, Bavaria, 105. Culbertson, Joseph, dep. in mus.,316. Curators, announcement by, of the arrival of the‘‘Rivoli collection” of birds, and their deposit by Dr. T. B. Wilson in the Academy,97; com- munication from, in reference to a | mass of small black insects received from the Rev. Mr. McFarland, and collected by him from the surface of the snow on the 28th Dec., 1846, on the Broad Mountain, Schuylkill Co., Pa., 186 ; report for 1847, 339. Da Costa, John C., don. to mus., 196. Dana, J. D., don. to mus., 31; don. | to lib., 119, 146, 147, 187. Darlington, Dr. Wm., don. to lib., 214, 240, 276. Dawson, J. W., of Pictou., N.S., don. to lib., 220,271; on the gypsum of Nova Scotia, 272. Dawson, Dr., of Philadelphia, don. to lib., 276; don. to mus., 276. Davis, Alex. C., don. to mus., 129. | De Candoile, portrait of, received for lib., 217. De Harden, L., don. to lib., 106. D’Orbigny, M. Alcide, don. to lib., 90, 309. Dickeson, M. W., don. to mus., 99, 119, 326; deposit in mus., 109; re- marks on his collection of fossil bones from the vicinity of Natchez, 106; on alligator tracks, &., 109 ; on the mode of compression of the cranium by the Choctaw Indians, 308. Dillingham,Wm.H., don. to lib., 277. Donations to museum bv a club of members, 17, 329. Donnelly, Edward, don. to mus., 35. Duke of Northumberland, don. to lib., 304. Edwards, Wm. H., don. to musz., 240, 244, Edwards, Amery, don. to mus., 244. Elwyn, Dr. A. L., don. to mus., 69 ; don. to lib., 68, 69, 122. Eschricht, Dr., don. to lib., 117, 118. Eustis, Capt., U.S. A., don. to mug., 232. Everest, Col., don. to lib., 256. Figeac, Champollion, don.to lib., 270. Fisher, Redwood, don. to lib., 315. French, Benj. F,, don. to lib., 105. Gambel, Wm., don. to mus., 31, 97, 289 ; don. to lib., 11, 275 ; remarks on the birds observed in Upper California, 44, 110, 154, 200; ob- servations on a species of Picus from Georgia, 278. Geneva Natural History Society, don, of memoirs of, 217. vi. Gesner, Abraham, don. to lib., 106. Germain, Lewis J., don. to mus., 17, 31,.38, 97, 118, 148, 274, 303 ; don. to lib., 256, Gibbes, Dr. R. W., don. to mus., 122; don. to lib., 29, 187, 218, 270; on the fossil Squalide of the Uni- ted States, 41; descriptions of new species of Squalide from the Ter- tiary beds of South Carolina, 266. Gibbes, Dr. Lewis R., don. to lib., 247. Gillis, Lieut., don. to lib., 119. Gliddon, George R., don. to lib., 122; remarks on some casts of Egyptian tablets, 216. Goddard, Dr. Paul B., don. to lib., 135, 148. Goodall, Dr., don. to mus., 122. Gould, Dr. A. A., don. to lib., 119, 148. Graham, Major J. D., don. tolib., 142. Gray, Dr. Asa, don. to lib., 10, 135, 146, 261, Griffith, Dr. R. E., don. to mus., 148, 211, 214, 223, 230, 232, 236, 316; don. to lib., 211, 237, 240, 244,260, 275; deposit in lib., 226, 227, 228, 304, 305, 306, 307, 317, 327, 328. Griffith, Miss, don. to mus., 240. Haight, Richard K., don. to lib., 37. Hall, Prof., don. to lib., 189. Haldeman, Prof. 8. S., don. to mus., 14, 70, 119, 210; don. to lib., 236 ; remarks on Unio crassus, 15; de- acription of Unio abacoides, 75; on several new genera and species of insects, 124; descriptions of several | new species and one new genus of insects, 149; correction of his published papers, 348 ; remarks on Salamandra erytbronota, Green, and 8. cinerea, Green, 315. Hallowell, Dr. Edward, don. to mus., 31, 50, 122, 192, 211; don. to lib., 119, 232; description of a new spe- cies of bat from Western Africa, 52; on the anatomy of Harpyia de- structor, 84; description of the lo- cality whence a collection of fossil bones presented to the Academy by Mr. Wm. Pancoast, had been ob- tained, and an enumeration of the same, 130; description of a new species of Coluber inhabiting the United States, 278 ; on the horned viper of Western Africa, 319. Hare, Prof, Robert, observations on INDEX. the combustion of gum in oxygen gas, 210; on the weather of the spring of 1847, 216. | Harris, Edward, don. to mus., 36, 129; on the difference of level be- tween the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and those of the Atlantic Ocean, 34. Heermann, Dr. A. L., don, to mus., 119, 232. Hembel, Wm., don. to lib., 90. Herbert, Rev. Wm., don. to lib., 211. Hildreth, Dr. S. P., don. to mus., 269. Histoire nat. de l’ile de Cuba, don. of by members, 148. Historical Society of Pennsylvania, don. to lib., 49, 68, 89. Hodge, John L., deposit of an Egyp- tian mummy and sarcophagus, 69. Hodgson, Wm. B., don. to lib., 122. Huffnagle, Dr. Charles, deposit in museum, 146, Imperial Society of Naturalists of Moscow, don. to lib., 29. Imperial Mineralogical Society of St. Petersburg, don. to lib., 29. Ingersoll, Joseph R., don. to lib., 36, 37, 38. Jackson, Dr. J. B. S., don. to lib., 225. Jaeger, Dr. G., don. to lib., 90, 91. Jenkins, Dr. J. C., don. to mns., 97. Johnson, Prof. Walter R., don. to mus., 36, 108, 122, 129, 187, 189, 192, 210, 212, 230, 240, 269; don. to lib., 36, 194; remarks on Mr. Piddington’s 11th memoir on the law of storms in India, 17; inform- ing the society of his having pre- sented to the Library Committee of Congress « series of resolutions passed by it, asking for an increas- ed edition of the scientific reports of the exploring expedition, 37; re- marks in relation to a bill before Congress on that subject, 79; ob- servations on floating docks, 50; remarks on drift, 109; on the cellu- lose of the Borneo palm, 186; on the dust of anthracite furnace flues, 191; on a new plan for representing geological strata on paper, 218; announcement of the deposit in the Institution of Mr. H. Seybert’s che- mical apparatus and library of chemical works, 224; on a peculiar INDEX. vii. sediment from a steam boiler, 318 ; on some fossil bones from Berks Co., Pennsylvania, 318. Kenworthy, Dr., don. to mus., 31. Kern, Benjamin H., don. to mus.,255. Kilvington, Robert, don. to mus., 230, 246. Kinberg, J. G. H., additions to mus., from, in exchange, 12. Korthals, Dr. P. W., don. to lib., 236. Lambert, John, don. to lib., 304, 316; election as Recording Secretary, 299. Le Conte, Dr. J. L., don. to mus., 269. Leeds Philosophical Society, don. to lib., 49, 191. Leidy, Dr. Joseph, don. to mus., 148, 244; don. to lib., 225; on the anatomy of Spectrum femoratum, 80; description of a new genus and species of Entozoa, 100; on the mechanism which closes the mem- branous wings of the genus Lo- custa, 104; on an Entozoon from the thigh of a hog,108; on the situation of the olfactory sense in the terres- trial tribe of the gasteropodous mollusca,136; instance of the great fecundity of the Cryptogamia men- tioned by, 195; discovery of crys- tals in the cellular structure of species of Parmelia, 210; on the cranium of a New Hollander, 217; on an Entozoon from the pericar- diumof Helix alternata,220; request to change the name of an Entozoon | described by him, from Cryptobia | to Cryptoicus, 239; remarks on Squatina Dumerili,247; description and anatomy of a subgenus of Pla- naria, 248; description of two new species of Planaria, 251; on the fos- sil horse ofAmerica,262; onthe slow destructibility of animal tissues in certain states, 313; on anew genus | and species of fossil ruminants, Poébrotherium Wilsoni, 322; ad- ditional observations on the fossil horse of America, 328. Letters from: Abert, Col., J. J., 228. Adams, Prof. C. B., 12, 49, 189. | 217. Agassiz, M., 37. Bache, Prof. A. D., 10, 91. Bailey, Prof., 39. Baird, Prof. S. F., 209. Baird, William M., 68. Barratt, Dr. J. P., 194. Breckenridge, Wm. D., 144. Bromfield, Dr. Wm. A., 228. Brown, Richard, 143, 229, 317. Clot Bey, M. D., 32. Cramer, Charles, 189. Dawson, J. W., 220. De Hauer, the Chevalier, 312. De Jondes, M, 71. Delafield, Major, 98. Everest, Col., 259. Eyton, Thomas C., 192. Falconer, Dr., (H. India Co.,)° 308. Fehlands, John, 312. Gourlie, Wm., Jr., 78. Graf, Mr. 149. Gray, Dr. Asa, 92. Haldeman, Prof. S.S , 278. Harden, Dr. J. M. B., 106. Hammond, Ogden, 197. Hering, Dr. E, 242. Hildreth, Dr. S. P., 274. Huffnagle, Dr. Charles, 99. Kinberg, J. G., 12. Kippist, Richard, 211. Lamarepicquot, M., 68. Land, Capt. John, 212. Locke, Prof., 30. Logan, Wm. E., 231. Lyell, Charles, 12, 92. Maclure, Alexander, 79. Meigs, H., 71. Mitchell, Dr. J. K , 191. Morris, Rev. J. G., 209, Morris, Miss M., 238. Norwood, Dr. J. G., 30. Owen, Prof. Richard, 15. Piddington, Henry, Jr., 16. Pitcher, Dr. Zina, 98, 132. Redfield, J. H., 98, 106. Redfield, Wm. C., 299. Retzius, Prof. Andreas, 216. Robb, James, 147. Rowe, M. W., 276. Savage, Rev. Dr., 195, 246. Silliman, Benj., Jr., 15, 16. Seybert, Henry, 229. Tamnau, Dr. Frederick, 217. Taylor, Richard C., 78. Thompson, Wm., 318. Tremper, Judge, 12, 18, 79, 91, 109, 191 Von Tschudi, Dr., 91. Von Gerolt, Baron, 18. Von Jaeger, Dr. George, 231. Wickersham, ©. P., 99, 108, 119. Wilson, Edward, 118. ; Viil. Wyman, Dr. J, 243. Letters from societies, &c. : American Philosophical Society, | 12, 91, 192, 219, 233. American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, 18, 98. Boston Society of Natural History, 238. British Association, 30. Essex Co. (Mass.) Natural History | Society, 91. Imperial Mineralogical Society of St. Petersburg, 30. Linnean Society of London, 15, 237. Lyceum of Natural History of New |. York, 91. Royal Academy of Sciences of Mu- nich, 261. Royal Bavarian Academy, 219. Royal Society of Agriculture and Sciences of Lyons, 99. Trustees of Western University of Pennsylvania, 144. Lewis, Dr. E. J., don. to lib., 184. Librarian, Report of, for 1847, 237. Life membership conferred on R. C. Taylor, Esq., 75. Lindsley, J. B., don. to mus., 10. Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College, don. of Journal of, 11, 68, 78, 105, 129, 142, 147, 184, 194, 209, 218, 225, 231, 237, 256, 277, 316, 319. Linvean Society of London, don. of | Transactions of, 15; Proceedings of, 15, 129. Locke, Prof. description of an Asterias | from the blue limestone of Cincin- | nati, 32. Logan, Wm. E., don. to lib., 231. Longchamps, Ed. de Selys, don. to | lib., 147. Lyceum of Natural History of New York, don. to lib., 38, 105, 194, 256. Mactier, Wm. L., don. to mus., 276. | Mantell, Gideon A., don. to lib., 245. | Martins, Charles, don. to lib., 261. McCall, Major George A., don. to} mus.,224; description of a supposed | new species of Columba inhabiting | Mexico, with some account of the | habits of the Geococcyx viaticus, | Wagler, 233. McEuen, Dr. Thomas, don. to mus.,| 210, 217. McMurtrie, Dr. H., don. to lib., 275. Meigs, Dr. Charles D., don. to mus., 219, 255, 315. INDEX. Melsheimer, Dr. F. E., descriptions of new species of Coleoptera of the United States, 53, 158. Members elected :— Allinson, George Boyd, 205. Dallas, George M., 326. Dickeson, Dr. M. W., 115. Emery, Moses H., 269. Fisher, Coleman, Jr., 145. Germain, Lewis J., 48. Hartshorne, Dr. Edward, 213. Kern, Richard, 213. Kern, Dr. Benjamin J., 269. Kern, Edward M., 299. Lambert, John, 129, Lea, M. Carey, 269. Lennig, Charles, 299. Lewis, Dr. Elisha J., 88. Ludlow, Dr. John L., 326. McClellan, Dr. John H. B., 326. Neill, Dr. John, 213. Pancoast, Dr. Joseph, 349. Powel, Samuel, 235. Rogers, Prof, James B., 299. Sargent, Dr. F. W., 269. Sergeant, J. Dickinson, 299. Skerrett, Dr. David C., 205. Thomson, Ambrose W., 115. Mohr, Paul, don. to lib., 270. Moricand, D. J., don. to lib., 217. Morris, Rev. Dr., don. to lib., 10. Morris, Miss M., don. to mus., 131, — 189, 236; remarks on the larva of Cicada septendecim, 132, 190. Morrison, John, don. to lib., 240. Morton, Dr. S. G., don. to mus., 38, 183, 215; deposit of crania in mus., 38, 69, 109, 135, 194, 196, 220, 276, 303, 309, 316; don. to lib., 9, 31, 37, 78, 184, 276, 277, 327; remarks on some cretaceous fossils from the green sand near Burlington, N. J., 32,39; on some Peruvian re- mains from the vicinity of Africa, 39; description of two new species of fossil Echinodermata from the Eocene of the U.S.,51; on the position of the ear in the ancient Egyptians, 70; on the occasional union of the spheno-temporal and coronal sutures in the human sab- ject, 71; on two hybrids between Gallus and Numida, 101; paper on hybridity of animals, considered in reference to the question of the unity of the human species, 118, 121; address at the first meeting of the society in the new library and meeting room,207; on an aboriginal INDEX. cranium obtained by Dr. Davis and Mr. Squire from a mound near Chilicothe, Ohio, 212; remarks on anIndian cranium found nearRich- mond, on the Delaware, and on a Chenook mummy, 330. Moss, Theodore F., don. to mus., 148, | 183, 187, 246; resignation of office of Recording Secretary, 268. Murchison, Roderick Impey, don. to | lib., 49. National Institute, don. to lib , 131. Nott, Dr. J. C., don. to lib., 31. Oakford, Richard, don. to mus., 244. Officers for 1847, 138; fur 1848, 348. Owen, Prof. Richard, observations on certain fossils from the collection | of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, 93. Pancoast, Wm., don. to mus., 118. Passerini, Carlo, don. to lib., 108. Pease, Wm., don. to mus., 236, 240. Peirce, Prof., don. to lib., 214. Pennock, Dr. C. W., don. to mus., 50, 217, 219, 316. Percival, Thomas C., don. to mus., 224, 255. Peterson, T. B., don. to lib., 256. Phillips, John S., don. to mus., 10, | 316; description of a new fresh water shell, and cbservations on Glandina obtusa, Pfeiff, 66. Piddington, Henry, Jr., don. to lib., 16, 247. Pisani, Dr. Ascagne, don. to lib.,105. | Pollock, J. R., don. to mus., 303, 309. Porcher, P. Peyre, don. to lib., 316. Providence Franklin Society, don. to lib., 49, 209. Publication Committee of Academy of Natural Sciences, don. to lib., 327; announcement by, of the pub- lication of the lst No. of the new series of the Journal of the Acad., 328. Ravenel, Dr. E., don. to mus., 326. Raymond & Waring, don. to mus., 314, Read; James, don. to. lib., 226. Recording Secretary, report of, for 1846 and 1847, 334. Redfield, John H., don. to lib., 38 Redfield, Wm. C., don. to lib., 147. ix. Regents of University of State of New York, don. to lib., 68, 327. Report of committee appointed to de- vise additions to the hall for ac- commodating Dr. Wilson’s col- lection of birds, 79, 92; on Dr. R. W. Gibbes’ paper on fossils from | the green sand of South Carolina, |~ 198, 221; on Prof. Hare’s paper | entitled, “Objections to the elec- | trical theories of Franklin, Dufay | and Ampére,” 221; on papers by | Dr. Gibbes, Dr. Le Conte and Dr. | Leidy, 239; on the propriety of al- - tering the lecture room, and adapt- ing it to the purposes of a museum, | 259; on the subject of exchanges | with M. Vattemare, 314. | Report of the library committee, snb- | mitting a plan for book cases io | the new library, 189. | Report of publication committee on Prof. Adams’ proposal to publish his paper on the Natural History of Jamaica in the Journal of the Academy, 222. Report on the ornithological depart- ment by Mr. Cassin, 343. Resolutions: authorizing the geologi- calcommittee to putup acollection of duplicate fossils for M. D’Or- bigny, 17; desiring the publication by the library committee of Con- gress, of a larger edition of the sci- entific reports of the U.S. exploring expedition, 18; presenting the 8th vol. of the journal to M. D’Orbigny, 27; presenting a copy of Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Researches to the Essex Co. (Mass.) Natural History Society, 67; appointing a committee to devise additions to the ball for accommodating the Rivoli collec- | tion of birds, 75; presenting the thanks of the Society to John Price Wetherill, Esq., for the donation of his extensive collection of fossils, 79; presenting copies of the Pro- ceedings and Journal to the Ameri- can Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, 93; authorizing accom- modations to be furnished in the hall for Dr. Dickeson’s collections, 110; on the oceasion of the decease of Isaiah Lukens, Esq., 123; autho- rizing the zoological committee to incorporate the ornithological col- lection ofthe Academy with that of Dr. Wilson, 128; authorizing the zoological committee to withdraw from exhibition the specimens in the ornithological collection of the Academy which are duplicate in the joint collection, 131; of thanks tothe Recording Secretary and Li- brarian,139; accepting the proposal of Mr. Henry Sey bert, to deposit in the cbemical apparatus, 144; authoriz- ing the curators to tender the use of the hall to the medical conven- tion, 187; authorizing the trans- mission to M. Moricand ofa copy of the Journal of the Academy, in ex- cbange, 198; authorizing the publi- cation committee to commence a new series of the Journal in quarto form, 198; entitling subscribers to the Journal,to the Proceedings, free of charge, 222; presenting the thanks of the Academy to Henry Seybert, Esq., for the deposit of his chemical apparatus in the Institu- tion, 230; of thanks to Theodore F. Moss for his services as Recording Secretary, 268. Riddell, Dr. J. L., don. to lib., 31. _ tiddle, Dr. David H., don. to lib.,142. Roemer, Dr. Fred., don. to mus., 259. Royal Society of Agriculture and Science of Lyons, don. to lib., 105. Savage, Rev. Dr. T. S., don. to mus., 35, 236, 303. Say, Mrs. Lucy W., don. to lib., 69. Seybert, Henry, deposit of chemical apparatus and library, 225; of chemical books, 232. Sharpless, Aaron, Jr., don. to mus., 146; communication from in re- ference to two hybrid birds, 185. Shelley, Dr. Joel Y., don. to mus., 315. Silliman,Benjamin, Jr., don. to lib.,9. Sillimaa’s Journal, don. of by editors 10, 15, 38, 50, 78, 98, 119, 187, 209, 231, 261, 316. Smith, Dr. George, don. to mus., 326. Sowerby, George, don. to mus., 255. Spackman, Dr George, don. to mus., 269. Squatina Dumerili, don. of specimen of, by members, 246. Stephens, H. S., don. to mus., 131. Stevenson, Dr. Collinson, don. to lib., 70. Storer, Dr. J. lib., 50. Humpbreys, don. to Institution bis collection of INDEX. Sullivant, William S., don. to lib.,10. Taylor, Richard C., don. to mus., 12, 14, 183; don. to lib., 70, 247. Taylor, Thomas H., don. to mus.. 210. Thomas, Dr. J., don. to mus., 276. Thompson, William, don. to mus., 230. Thomson, George, don. to mus., 135. Townsend, J. K., exhibition by, of a “ singing mouse,” 262. Treasury Department, U. S., don. to lib., 9, 89, 196. Tremper, Judge, don. to mus., 108. Trustees of the British Association, don. to lib., 261. Tuomey, M., notice of the discovery ofa cranium of the Zeuglodon,1§1. Vattemare, Alexandre, don. to lib., 279. Vaux, Wm. S., don. to mus., 255. Von Gerolt, Baron, don. to lib., 69. Von Tschudi, Dr. J. J., don. to lib., 90. Wagner, Dr. A., don. to lib., 78. Ward, N. E., don. to lib., 261. Warrington, Dr., exhibition by, of the “Spirometer,’’ an instrument of his invention, 262. Watson, J. F., don. to mus., 10, Webster, Daniel, don. to lib., 89. Wetherill, J. Price, don. by, of his large collection of fossils, 77; de- posit in lib., 188. Whittlesey, Charles, don. to lib., 15. ‘| Wilson, Dr. Thomas B., don. to mus., 77, 141, 194, 208, 213, 223, 230, 235, 239, 244, 246, 256, 259, 274, 308, 329 ; don. to lib., 11, 49, 80, 90, 270; deposit in mus., 195, 213 ; deposit in lib., 131, 142, 183, 193, 194, 196, 197, 209, 214, 215, 218, 219, 220, 225, 232, 241, 242, 245, 256, 257, 258, 271, 307, 309, 310, 311, 312, 315, 316, 317, 327, 329. Wilson, Edward, don. to lib., 247, 315. Wilson, Dr. Joseph, U. S. N., don. to mus., 269, 314. Wistar, Wm. G., don. to mus., 329. Woodhouse, S. W., don. to mus., 141, 148. Wyman, Dr. J., don. to mus., 141. Zoological Society of London, don. to lib., 9, 129. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES Of PHILADEL PHT A. Vou. III. JAN. AND FEB., 1846. Nos. Stated Meeting, January 6, 1846. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Report on the chemical examination of Mineral Waters for the city of Boston. By Benjamin Silliman, Jr. Boston, 1845. From the Author. First Annual Report on the Geology of Vermont. By C. B. Adams. Burlington, Vermont 1845. From the Author. Synopsis Conchyliorum Jamaiciensium, &. By C. B. Adams. From the same. Fresh-water and land Shells of Vermont. By C. B. Adams. From the same. The Culture of Silk, or an essay on its rational practice and improvement; in 4 parts. By the Rev. Samuel Pullein. 8vo. London, 1758. From Dr. Morton. Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London, for 1844 and 1845. From the Society. Two additional sheets, completing the map of the U. 8. coast 2 10 [Jan., 1846. survey of New York Harbor and Bay. From the Trea- sury Department, through A. D. Bache, Esq. A communication was read from A. D. Bache, Esq., dated Washington, Dec. 9, 1845, presenting the above. Mr. Conrad read a paper, intended for publication, entitled “Descriptions of nineteen new species of fossil and recent Shells and Corals of the United States ;” which was referred to a committee consisting of Mr. Phillips, Dr. Pickering, and Mr. Harris. Stated Meeting, January 13, 1846. Vicr PresipENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Mr. Phillips presented specimens of the following Shells: Paludina apicina, Phillips, from Uraguay; Physa princeps, Phillips, and Glandina obtusa, Pfeiffer, from Yucatan. Specimen of Unio Sowerbianus, Lea, from Nashville, Tenn. From Mr. J. B. Lindsley. Fossil bone of a Whale’s ear, from the Desert of Atacama, Peru. From Mr. J. F. Watson. Recent shell limestone, from Anastasia Island, Coast of Flo- rida. From Dr. Abadie. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. American Journal of Arts and Sciences. No.1. Vol. I. 2d Series, January, 1846. From the Editors. Musci Alleghaniensis, sive Spicilegia Muscorum atque He- paticarum quas in itmere a Marylandia usque ad Geor- giam per tractus montium, A. D. 1843, decerpserunt Asa Gray et W.S. Sullivant, &c., Columbus, Ohio, 1845. From the Authors. Contributions towards a history of Entomology in the United JaN., 1846.] 11 States. By John G. Morris, D. D., Baltimore, 1845. From the Author. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. No.1. Vol. 2. From the Asso- ciation. A history of British fossil Mammalia and Birds. By Richard Owen, F..R.S., &c.. Parts 9 and 10. From. Dr, T. B. Wilson. The following works in the Hawaiian language, published in the Sandwich Islands, were presented by Mr. William Gambel : Ka Palapala Hemolele, 2 vols., (The Holy Bible); Ke Kanoha Hou, (The New Testament); Ke Kumu Hawai, (The Hawaiian Teacher); Ka Hele Malihini ana, (The Pilgrim’s Progress); Hoike Akua, (A Theology); Ka Hope no ka Helunaau, (An Arithmetic); Ke Kumu Kana- wai, (The Laws of the Sandwich Islands); He Hoike- houna, (A Geography); He Piliolelo, &., (A Grammar of the English Language); O Ke Kokua no ka Hawaii, &c., (A Primer of the English Language); Ka Mooolelo, &c., (A History of the Christian Church.) Also, from the same donor, the following in the English lan- guage: History of the Sandwich Islands. By Sheldon Dibble. La- hainaluna, 1843. Sandwich Island Gazette. Vols. 1, 2 and 3—1836 to 1839. The Polynesian. Vols. 1 and 2—1840 to 1841. A Vocabulary of the Hawaiian Language. Lahainaluna, 1836. Documents relating to the restoration of the Sandwich Islands’ Flag, 1843. Statistics relating to the Sandwich Islands. Letters were read: From M. C. B. Adams, dated Middlebury, Vermont, Dec. 31, 1845, returning acknowledgements for a copy of the Pro- 12 [Jaw., 1846. ceedings of the Academy, from January, 1844, to October, 1845. From Jacob Tremper, Esq., dated Dresden, N. Y., Jan. 8, 1846, replying to a request from the Corresponding Secretary to endeavor to procure for the Society a copy of the Natural History of the State of New York, and stating the terms upon which it could be obtained. Mr. Phillips read a paper, intended for publication, describ- ing new fresh-water shells, with observations on Glandina obtusa, Pfeif.—specimens of all of which have been presented by him this evening. Referred to the following Committee: Mr. Conrad, Dr. Leidy, and Dr. Morton. Slated Meeting, January 20, 1846. VicE PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. The Curators exhibited a large collection of Quadrupeds and Birds in skin ; fishes and reptiles in spirits ; insects, plants, fossils and minerals, received in exchange from Mr. J. G. H. Kinberg, of Lund, Sweden. Mr. Cassin presented two reptiles from Western Africa, presumed to be new. Specimens of Indusial limestone, or Travertine of Auvergne, with numerous small Paludine attached to tubes of Phry- genea: from Valliere, near Moulins, France. Presented by Richard C. Taylor, Esq. A communication was read from the Secretary of the American Philosophical Society, dated Dec. 5, 1845, return- ing acknowledgments for Nos. 10 and 11 of the Proceedings. Mr. Cassin read a translation of a letter from Mr. Kinberg, dated Lund, Sweden, November, 1845, in relation to the collection received from him and exhibited this evening. The Chairman read a letter from Mr. Charles Lyell, dated Darien, Georgia, January 8, 1846, requesting permission from Jan., 1846.] 13 the Academy to take to London for a short period, for further investigation and comparison by Professor Owen, the fol- lowing fossil specimens from the Brunswick canal, Georgia, presented to the Institution by Mr. J. Hamilton Cooper, of Georgia, viz: Lower incisor tooth of Hippopotamus; fragment of same; fragment, supposed to be that of a Hippopotamus; tooth ef a horse; Sus Americanus, Harlan; supposed tibia of a Bos; humerus of do. Meeting for Business, January 27, 1846. Vice PresIDENT Morton in the Chair. The Society having received several reports, and authorized the Geological Committee to loan Mr. Lyell the fossil speci- mens referred to in his letter, read at last meeting, proceeded to an election for Standing Committees for the present year, with the following result: COMMITTEES FOR 1846. Geological and Mineralogical. J. Price Wetherill, Wn. 8. Vaux, S. G. Morton, Walter R. Johnson, T. A. Conrad, Samuel Ashmead, Theodore F. Moss. Zoological. John S. Phillips, John Cassin, Edward Harris, John K. Townsend, Wn. S. Zantzinger, Joseph Leidy, William Gambel. Botanieal. - Robert Bridges, Gavin Watson, Wn. 8. Zantzinger. Robert Kilvington, William Gambel. 14 [Fes., 1846. Physics. Isaiah Lukens, Paul B. Goddard, Walter R. Johnson, J. S. Phillips, Theodore F. Moss. Library. Robert Bridges, Robert Pearsall, W. S. Zantzinger, Geo. W. Carpenter, Samuel B. Ashmead. Committee on Proceedings. S. G. Morton. Corresponding and John §. Phillips, Recording Secretaries, Joseph Leidy, ex-officto. ELECTION OF CORRESPONDENTS. Charles Nicholson, M. D., of Sydney, New South Wales, and the Baron Von Gerolt, Prussian Minister at Washington, were elected Correspondents of the Academy. Stated Meeting, February 3, 1846. Vice PresrpENtT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimen of Unio crassus, Say, var. fasciatus, Raf., from the Susquehanna river. From Mr. Haldeman. A small collection, in skin, of European Birds. From R. C. Taylor, Esq. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Eighteen publications, in pamphlet form, on Medicine, Sur- gery, Pathology and Physiology, in the French, Italian and Latin languages, by the following named authors: MM. Huot, Bernard, Lefevre, Laveran et Millon, Pidoux, Rognetta, Chevalier, Parise, Mojou, Boudet, Rolando, Francisco Paolo de Chiara, Garbiglietti, Paolo Fabrizj, and Fes., 1846.] 15 C. A. Roesch. From Dr. J. C. M. Boudin, of Versailles, through Richard K. Haight, Esq., of New York. Bulletin semestrial de la Sociéte Royale de Medecine de Marseille. 1™° Annee. No. 1. 2™° An. No. 1. and 2. 4ze An. No. 1 and 2. From the same. A dissertation upon the origin of Mineral Coal. By Charles Whittlesey, (late of the Geological Corps of Ohio,) Cleve- land, 1845. From the Author. . The American Journal of Science and Arts. Vol. 46. No. 1. January, 1844. From the Editors, (in compliance with a request from the Academy, for completing the series in the Library.) Transactions of the Linnean Society of London. Vol. XIX. Part 4. 4to. London, 1845. Proceedings of the same, from November, 1844, to June, 1845 ; and List of the Linnean Society for 1845. From the Society. Letters were read: From Benjamin Silliman, Jr., dated New Haven, January 25, 1846, accompany the donation of the No. of Silliman’s Journal received this evening. From the Linnean Society of London, dated November 7, 1845, returning acknowledgements for certain Nos. of the Proceeding of the Academy, and for Vol. 8, Part 1, of the Journal, transmitted at the request of the Society. From Professor Owen, of London, dated Noy. 11, 1846, in reference to the fossil genus Dorudon, of Dr. R. W. Gibbes, published in the Academy’s Proceedings. He considers this genus to be the same as the Zeuglodon, (Basilosaurus of Harlan,) to which genus also belongs the very extensive series of bones recently brought from Alabama by Dr. Koch, and now exhibiting in this city. Mr. Haldeman offered some remarks on the specimen of ? 16 [Frz., 1846. Unio crassus presented by him this evening, and stated that it is one of those which he placed in the river Susquehanna, in a living state, in the year 1841, a record of which fact will be found at page 104, Vol. 1, of the Proceedings of the Aca- demy. As no western species of Unio, except U. viridis, Raf., had hitherto been found in that river, Mr. Haldeman had no doubt that the present specimen was in reality one of those referred to. The growth had been inconsiderable, and the genera] appearance very little changed. The other indi- viduals of this and other species seem not to have survived. Stated Meeting, February 10, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Eleventh and Twelfth Memoirs with reference to the law of Storms in India, &&. By Henry Piddington. Calcutta, 1845. From the Author. A letter was read from Mr. Piddington, dated Calcutta, September 8, 1845, accompanying the donation of his Me- moirs above announced, and calling the attention of the So- ciety to the Postscript to the 11th Memoir, page 64, “ where a curious experiment will be found detailed, which sets the whole question of circular or converging winds (winds blow- ing towards a centre) completely at rest, for these seas at least.” A letter was read from Benjamin Silliman, Jr., dated New Haven, February 6, 1846, requesting on behalf of M. Alcide D’Orbigny, of Paris, exchanges between him and the Aca- demy, both of books and specimens of Natural History, and suggesting especially the transmission of the publications of this Society for such of M. D’Orbigny’s works as may be de- sirable for its Library. Frs., 1846.] 17 Professor Johnson then read to the Society the portion of Mr. Piddington’s Memoir referred to in his letter, and added some remarks in confirmation of the correctness of the views of the author on the subject. Dr. Morton announced that he had recently received letters from Mr. I. G. Strain, U. S. N., a Correspondent of this Institution, dated from the China seas, detailing the causes of failure of his late expedition into the interior of Brazil. Mr. S. was on his retnrn home, and expressed an ardent hope of being enabled to make a renewed effort to accomplish the objects of his undertaking. On motion of Mr. Phillips, Resolved, That the Geological Committee be authorised to put up a collection of the duplhi- cate fossils, to be forwarded to M. D’Orbigny. Stated Meeting, February 17, 1846. VICE PRESIDENT Morron in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Prepared specimen of Orthogariscus mola, from the Capes of Delaware. Presented by Messrs. Phillips, Cassin, and Hazard. The following specimens, prepared and mounted, were pre- sented by Messrs. Haldeman, Cassin,Bridges and Morton, Viz : Cebus apellus? South America, C. hypoleucus, and two other species ; and Jacchus vulgaris, Geoff. Rib bone of a cetaceous animal found in the green sand near Burlington, New Jersey; also fragments of fossil bone ; Baculites ovatus, and Scaphites Cuvieri, from the vicinity of Morristown, New Jersey. Presented by Mr. Germain, of Burlington, through Dr. Hallowell. 18 [Fep., 1846. Letters were read: From the Baron Von Gerolt, Prussian Minister at Wash- iugton, dated February 9, 1846, returning acknowledgments for his election as a Correspondent. From Jacob Tremper, Esq., dated Dresden, New York, February 9, 1846, calling the attention of the Society to the advantages and importance of the adoption by scientific bodies throughout the United States, of some general rules for keep- ing meteorological registers for comparison, Xe. From the American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, dated February 8, 1846, communicating a copy of a letter addressed by a committee of that Society to the Joint Library Committee of Congress, desiring the publication of a larger edition of the Scientific Reports of the late U. S. Ex- ploring Expedition, and soliciting the co-operation of this Institution in the matter. The copy of the letter referred to was read also by the Corresponding Secretary. Professor Johnson offered the following Resolutions, which where adopted, and copies ordered to be transmitted to the American Academy at Boston, and to the Library Committee of Congress. Resolved, That the memorial of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, to the Joint Library Committee of Congress, asking for the publication of a larger number of copies of the scientific volumes containing the results of the late South Sea Exploring Expedition, meets the cordial approval and con- currence of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelpbia. Resolved, That in the view of this Academy, the present num- ber of 100 copies only, printed on public account, is utterly in- adequate to supply the demand for this work, especially as about one-half of that number is understood to be distributed in dona- tions to Foreign Governments, while none are allowed to Scien- tific Societies at home. Resolved, That while the results of other American Exploring ; i . Wit a y a by, ie iy DA Frs., 1846.] 19 Expeditions, and of other scientific labors, performed in obedience to the requirements of Government, have, by a just and liberal policy, been made widely known to the public, the present course of printing 100 copies only of the labors of the South Sea Expe- dition, and which, therefore, scarcely deserves the name of a publication, Goes equal injustice to the nation which has borne the expense, and to the meritorious individuals who have per- formed the scientific duties : Resolved, That this Academy haying, by special request of the Navy Department, afforded its aid and counsel in the preparation of the Expedition, deems itself justified in complaining of the’ treatment which, in common with all the other scientific bodies then consulted, it receives by the existing arrangement,—that of being compelled either to forego the possession of the works in question, or to pay such a price as private speculation may affix to public documents prepared by public officers, and the entire expense of which (with an exception too insignificant to mention) has been defrayed out of the public treasury. Meeting for Business, February 24, 1846. VicE PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. The Committee on Mr. Conrad’s paper, read 6th January last, reported in favor of publication. Descriptions of New Species of Fossil and Recent Shells and Corals. By T. A. Conran. TERTIARY FOSSIL SHELLS. CrritHium ? Cerithium? celata. Plate 1, fig.19. Turrited, whorls with four revolv- ing ribs on each, the superior pair large, elevated, and obliquely crenate ; the lower pair small, approximate, inferior one very near the suture; lines of growth profoundly undulated. Locality. Island of Huaffo, near Cape Horn. In Tertiary clay. Dr. James Hights. This remarkable shell is imperfect in the last volution, and it is uncertain whether it should be referred to Turritella or Cerithium. The rib in the 20 [Fer., 1846. middle of the whorls is largest, and the crene have a different direction from those in the superior rib. A variety occurs with only three ribs, one of the inferior pair being wanting TELLINA. Tevuna Huaffoensis. Plate 1, fig. 20. Subtriangular; right valve ventri- cose ; anterior side subcuneiform; margin obliquely truncated, extremity rounded ; beaks medial ; posterior margin regularly rounded ; basal margin nearly straight in the middle; surface without other lines than those of growth. Locality. Occurs with the preceding. These two fossils are imbedded in drab colored clay, the geological age of which is uncertain. Ihave no doubt, however, thatit is posterior to the Eocene period. MIOCENE SPECIES. EvLIMa. Evuima ebored. Plate 1, fig. 21. Subulate, whorls 9 ; suture slightly de- fined ; aperture somewhat oblique, ovate-acute. Locality. Suffolk, Virginia. E. migrans. Plate 1, fig. 22. Subulate, very narrow or slender; suture indistinct ; aperture direct, oblong-ovate, acute. Locality. Occurs with the preceding. Odostomia. Odostomia limnia. Plate 1, fig. 4. Subfusiform, polished, whorls 4; con- vex ; suture impressed; aperture oblong-ovate, half the length of the shell; columella slightly folded. Locality. Yorktown, Virginia. O. protexta. Plate 1, fig. 5. Subulate, minutely cancellated, with five volutions, those of the spire being subangulated near the base; labrum sub- angulated above the middle; columella with a prominent fold in the middle. Locality. Yorktown, Virginia. Delphinula. Delphinula arenosa. Discoidal, whorls 3, slightly convex; minutely striated longitudinally ; base regularly convex: umbilicus profound. Dia- meter 4 of an inch. Locality. Yorktown, Virginia. D. lyra. Plate 2, fig. 27. Vide Journ. A.N. §S. vol. vii, p. 141. Locality. Suffolk, Virginia. Bulla. Bulla subspissa. Plate 1, fig. 29. Oblong-oval, thick, ventricose in the middle; labium rounded or ventricose; margin of labrum straight above: base minutely umbilicated. Locality. Calvert Cliffs, Maryland. Fup., 1846.] 21 Bonellia. Bonellia lineata. Plate 1, fig. 23. Vide Proceed. A. N. S., vol. i. p. 32. CALYPTRAA. Suseenvus Disporma, Say. All the species of this genus found in the United States belongs to Say’s genus Dispotcea, which forms a very natural and distinct group, if the cha- racters of the shells are any criterion of generic distinction. The following list of species occur in the Miocene strata of the Union: C. (Dispotcea) corrugata, Brod. Recent on the coast of Central Ame- D. ramosa, Con. \ rica, and fossil in Virginia. C. (Dispotcea) costata, Say, \ Recent ; coast of Central Hmerica. C. rugosa, Brod. Fossil in Maryland. C. (Dispotwa) multilineata, Con. Fossil. Wilmington, North Carolina. C. (Dispotwa) dumosa, Con. af fe « TROCHUS. Trochus peralveatus, Plate 1, fig. 25. Vide Proceed. A. N.S., vol. i. p. 30. Myopora. Myodora arenosa, Con. (Pandora arenoso, Con.) Foss. Shells of Tert. Form., p. 4, pl. 1, fig. 3. Eocene species. AMPULLARIA ? Ampullaria? perovata. Plate 1, fig. 16. Ovate, body whorl ventricose ; spire conoidal? aperture subovate, half the length of the shell. Locality. Claiborne. I possess but one imperfect specimen of this shell. It is rather elevated for an Ampullaria ; but to this genus or to Paludina, the form of the aper- ture more nearly allies it, than to any marine genus which is known to me. CaARICELLA. Shell pyriform, with ribs or spines: spire short, apex thickened or papil- lated ; beak somewhat produced and slightly curved, pointed, not emarginate at base; columella with four or five oblique, prominent, compressed plaits, decreasing in size towards the base, as in Mitra. In my publication entitled “Fossil Shells of the Tertiary Formations,’ I propose the above name for a group of Claiborne shells, and re- ferred it as asubgenus Twrbinella, but the characters are sufficiently dis- tinctive to constitute a genus. The want of an emarginate base widely separates it from Mitra or Voluta. The labrum is always simple, without teeth, and thin. The following species may be designated: C. bolaris, 22 [Frs., 1846. (Mitra,) Con. C. pyruloides, (Turbinella,) Cox. C. pretenuis, Con. ( Voluta prisca, Con. l V. Cooperii, Lea. This genus, so far as I know, occurs only in the Eocene strata. C. doliata, CARDIUM. p. 33. ANOMIA. Anomia jugosa. Plate 1, fig. 14. Vide Proceed. A. N.S. vol. 1, p. 310. POLYPARIA (SILURIAN.) CyATHOPHYLLUM, LAM. C. cALOPHYLLUM? pustulatum. Plate 1, fig. 24. Turbinate, somewhat curved towards the base, and with numerous elevated pustules, most of which have a central perforation: Locality. State of Ohio, in Silurian limestone, Dr. Riley. The rays are visible on only a small portion of the specimen, the rest being imbedded in compact gray limestone. EOCENE SPECIES. TURBINOLIA. Turbinolia elaborata. Plate 1, fig. 30. Snbcuneiform; base acute, in- curved, lamellz thin, numerous, branched, smooth becoming very irregular or sinuous where they approach the centre; sides profoundly sulcated or ribbed, the ribs densely and distinctly porous, many of them divaricated, the intervals with remote transverse lamelle. Locality. Near City Point, Virginia. T. pileolus. Plate 1, fig. 26. Vide Proceed. A. N.S., vol. 1, p. 327. Manprepora. Madrepora vermiculosa. Ramose, branches cylindrical ; cells remote, un- equal, a little prominent, interstices with thick, equal, vermicular strie, minutely granulated. Locality. Occurs with the preceding. This is a rare species ; the undating striz are large and ornamental. DEVONIAN SHELLS. Monoris, Bronn. This genus occurs in the Devonian shales. I have not observed a species in any other formation. Monotis radians. Syx. Plerninca radians. Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. vol. viii. p. 252, pl. 15 fig. 1. Carpium Nicolleti. Plate 1, fig. 14. Vide Proceed. Acad. N.§. vol. |, » are Frs., 1846.] 23 Monotis Poulsoni. Plate 1, fig. 32. Suborbicular, ventricose, not oblique. ribs about 44 in number, obtusely rounded, interstices nearly flat, about as wide as the ribs, with minute transverse wrinkles; umbo broad and the summit prominent; anterior and posterior margins rounded. Locality. Jersey shore, Lycoming county, Pennsylvania. (Devonian shale. ) This beautiful species occurs in a dark shale of the same geological age and appearance as the shale of the Chemung Narrows in New York, which is a part of the Devonian System. It is dedicated to my friend Charles A. Poulson, Esq., to whose splendid collection it belongs. . elevata. Plate 1, fig. 31. Obliquely oval, somewhat ventricose, ribs about 42 in number, prominent, acutely rounded, interstices very narrow, except towards the anterior hinge margin, where the ribs are larger; an- terior and posterior margins nearly straight ; anterior side very short. Locality. Occurs with the preceding species in the same rock. Cabinet of Mr. Poulson. SILURIAN SPECIES. AVICULA. Avicula ferruginea. Plate 1, fig. 28. Subrhomboidal ; left valve pro- foundly ventricose ; anterior side profoundly contracted ; umbo very promi- nent; extremity of anterior wing angulated; the margin beneath slightly emarginate ; margin of posterior wing straight and direct. Locality. Jersey shore, Lycoming county, Penasylvania. Cabinet of Mr. Poulson. This speeies abounds in the Fossiliferous iron ore of the Middle Silurian series. CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. Strophomena. Strophomena nassula. Hinge area wide; valves with approximate acute radiating strie, and finer concentric lines ; one valve flat, with three or four large concentric undulations. Locality. Jersey shore, Lycoming county, Pennsylvania. Mr. Poulson. RECENT SHELLS. Cyrena. Cyrena Floridana. Plate 1, fig. 1. Triangular, subequilateral, ventricose ; summits prominent, concentrically striated ; posterior side with an obtuse fold near the margin ; color whitish, varied with violaceous, both externally and internally. Locality. Tampa Bay, Florida. 24 [Fes., 1846. VENUS. Venus cuneimeris. Plate 1, fig. 13. Inequilateral, triangular; ventricose anteriorly ; flexuous and compressed posteriorly ; posterior side cuneiform ; surface with obtuse concentric ribs, profound on the umbo, and with minute radiating raised lines ; color yellowish, varied with fulvous or brown, some- times in spots, in other specimens with rays ; within purple and white, with a whitish margin. Locality. Tampa Bay. Novcuta. Nucula eborea. Plate 1, fig. 4. Ovate-acute, ventricose, with minute, concentric, very regular lines; surface highly polished, ivory white; ante- rior side rostrated, pointed, rather longer than the posterior side. Locality. Keys of Tampa Bay: rare. - Mopio.a. Modiola papyria. Plate 1, fig. 8. Ovate-oblong, extremely thin, pellucid ; ligament margin long, rectilinear; posterior margin obliquely truncated ; basal margin slightly contracted; color greenish with brown angular spote. Locality. Tampa Bay. ASTARTE. Astarte flabella. Plate 1, fig. 3. Ovate-triangular, profoundly compressed, and having ten flattened radiating ribs ; posterior basal margin obliquely truncated; color white, with fulvous spots. Locality. Egmont Key, Tampa Bay. This species approaches A. radians, Con., a Miocene fossil, but it is not so flat, and has fewer, wider, less prominent ribs. A. triquetra. Plate 1, fig, 6. Very small, triangular, elevated, equilateral and symmetrical, ventricose, polished, white, sometimes brown or purple on the disk in form of a broad ray. Locality. Tampa Bay. OstropEesMA, Desh. (Lyonsia, Turton.) Osteodosma hyalina ? Plate 1, fig. 7. A variety of the northern species, more elongated than those of the eastern coast. I have some doubts of the specific identity. SoLecurtvs. Solecurtus fragilis, var. Plate 1, fig. 10. Oblong, straight, color viola- ceous, rayed with bluish white; epidermis olive, the rays visible upon it; interior rib oblique; teeth two in each valve, very unequal in size. Locality. Egmont Key, Tampa Bay. Lucina. Lucina nassula. Lentiform, equilateral, with concentric lamelliform striz, distant above, approximate towards the base: and with approximate radiating prominent lines ; posterior side compressed towards the margin, and with ‘ Fes. 1846.] 28 one or two of the radiating strie larger than the rest; lunule large, ovate- acute, prominently striated ; inner margin deeply crenulated. Locality. Tampa Bay, Florida. CoRBULA. Corbula limatula. Plate 1, fig. 2. Subtriangular, inequilateral, polished, concentrically striated, the strice of the lesser valve finer and less distinc: than those of the opposite valve; posterior extremity truncated ; summits prominent ; color whitish, tinged with pale brown on the umbo. Locality. Gulf of Mexico. Dredged up on the sounding lead in deep water off the coast of Florida. Pouiia. Pollia tincta. Plate 1, fig. 9. Short, subfusiform ; whorls 7, somewhat channelled or contracted above ; longitudinal ribs large, remote; revolving lines robust, alternated with fine lines; lines of growth well defined, be- coming promineat wrinkled lines on the spire ; color greenish-white, varied with large irregular brown or ferruginous spots; aperture balf the length of the shell; labrum striated within, margin plicated; labium with a prom- inent fold near the summit, and somewhat corrugated towards the base. Locality. Mouth of Manatu river, of Tampa Bay, Florida, inhabiting sand bars. P.cancellaria. Plate 1, fig. 12. Fusiform, with longitudinal plice, and more elevated, distant, undulated, revolving cost, and intermediate fine lines; whorls longitudinally rugose ; aperture half as long as the shell; la- brum with distant, acute, prominent lines within: columella distiactly plaited at base: beak recurved; color cinereous. Locality. Ship Island, Gulf of Mexico. Murex celluiosa. Short-fusiform, with large, prominent revolving lines or coste, the interstices with transverse wrinkled lines, largest on the varices, and giving the shell a cellular aspect ; beak much curved ; color cinereous : aperture small, obovate, purplish within. Locality. Tampa Bay. Inhabits oyster beds. M. Tampaensis. Fusiform, with acute varices, and distant revolving cos- te, about eight in number, from angle of body whorl to base; spire scalar- iform ; whorls with two revolving ribs on each; Jabium with obtuse teeth ; color cinereous, with purplish brown. Locality. Occurs with the preceding species. M. ostrearum. Fusiform, with revolving ribs alternated in size, and with longitudinal wrinkles; spire elevated, scalariform; base umbilicated ; within livid. Locality. Occurs with the preceding. 3 ine a [Fes., 1846. MARGINELLA. Marginella succinea. Plate 1, fig. 17. Elevated; labrum sinuous, aperture contracted above, comparatively wide at base; columella 4-plaited ; color amber; margin of labrum entire. Locality. Tampa Bay. Very rare. M. albilavris. Sbort-subovate, of an olive color, with a white, mach thickened margin, extending over the base; labrum straight, denticulate within: columella with one obscure plait at base. Locality. Tampa Bay. OLIVA. Oliva mutica, Plate 2, fig. 34. Common in St. Joseph’s Bay, Florida, liv- ing in the sand in shoal water, leaving a trail by which its habitat can readily be discovered. TROCHUS. Trochus Tampaensis. Plate 2, fig. 35. Conical; whorls 6}, concave ; with revolving, approximate, densely beaded lines, alternated in size; base flat, striated, lines crenulated by transverse wrinkles; umbilicus moderate, forming a rather deep canal behind the labium; color whitish-brown and dark purple, variegated. Locality. Tampa Bay. Triton lineolatum. Plate 1, fig. 18. Elevated, with brown revolving lines ; spire scalariform, with numerous varices or cost on the body whorl ; they are generally smaller, and crenulate the revolving lines; labrum with four teeth within. Length ~ of an inch. Locality. Tampa Bay. Cerithium protextum. Subulate, elongated, with longitudinal curved acute cost, and fine revolving lines; whorls 15, slightly convex; ribs di- vided and somewhat dislocated by an impressed line below the suture ; color purplish-black ; within the same. Locality. Tampa Bay? The specimen described is more than three-fourths of an inch long, but the usual size is less than half an inch. Bota. Bulla succinea, Plate 1, fig. 5. Cylindrical, very thin, diapbanous, of an amber color, and marked with crowded, minute, revolving, wrinkled lines ; columella concave or channelled towards the base; labrum straight ; sum- mit above the line of the apex. Locality. Tampa Bay. CREPIDULA. Crepidula maculosa. Subovate; anterior side flattened; back acutely il nil a hl ee ee Fas, 1846.] 27 rounded ; umbo compressed ; color white, with irregular brown spois some- what in ray-like series. Length 12 inch. Breadth $ inch. Locality. Mullet Key, Tampa Bay. DENTALIUM- Dentahum echoreum. Ourved above, inclining to be straight inferiorly, thin, translucent, very slender, very gradually tapering to a very acute apex ; white, without lines, highly polished. Length } inch. Tocahiy. Southern coast of Florida. Dr. Morton offered the following, which was adopted : Resolved, That the 8th Vol. of the Journal of the Academy be presented to M. D’Orbigny, of Paris. sy0 = Py : 2 ’ —— , ; -! po —-. Gites Bas + ; o- — a 7. % i- #5 7 . ,. 2 oe -_ ‘, ‘ wetirp se wll rep, ot ; de 1 Pes ae PP» vy = : wee, Ht, WP afters ot at GVA ee y POa TF 9 5: be on ae pegnd Ba oe 8 Py q ‘ wer Pou ree ST ie» 9 Sian “ital Ori 0 ihe ae htw) pe othales # lS Si Tab ineale aa VE fviied’ Tam sats "Ye - . ~ ( 3 > u = mee of a \ fz en _ ‘ ® s hy rs tie. x4 m PROCEEDINGS ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Vou. HI. MARCH AND APRIL, 1846. No. 2. Stated Meeting, March 3, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Bulletin de la Sociéte Imperiale des Naturalistes de Moscou. Nos. 2 and 3, for 1843. From the Society. Verhandlingen der Kaiserlich-Russischen Mineralogischen Gesellschaft zu St. Petersburg. 2 vols. 1843 and 1844. From the Society. A Memoir of James De Veaux, of Charleston, 8. C. By Robert W. Gibbes, M. D., of Columbia, S. C. 8vo. From the Author. Dr. Morton presented a paper by Dr. Robert W. Gibbes, of Columbia, S. C., ‘On the fossil Squalide of the Eocene of the Southern States,’ which was read and referred to a committee consisting of Mr. Philips, Dr. Morton and Dr. Hallowell. A paper by Mr. Edward Harris, “On the difference of level between the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and those of 5 30 [Marcn, 1846. the Atlantic Ocean,” was referred to the following committee : Dr. Elwyn, Dr. Pickering and Mr. Phillips. Letters were read: From the Imperial Society of Naturalists of Moscow, ac- companying the Nos. of the Bulletin of that Society presented this evening. From the British Association for the adyancement of Science, announcing that a copy of Herschel’s Catalogue of Stars had been adjudged to the Academy by the Association, and stating the mode in which it could be obtained. Stated Meeting, March 10, 1846. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. The Chairman read a letter from Prof. Locke, dated Medi- cal College of Ohio, Feb. 2, 1846, containing a notice of a fossil Asterias from the blue limestone of Cincinnati, with a drawing of the same. Referred to the following committee : Dr. Leidy, Dr. Morton and Dr. Pickering. The Chairman also read a portion of a letter from J. G. Norwood, M. D., of Madison, Indiana, dated Feb. 25, 1846, desiring the communication to the Academy of an accompany- ing printed description and figures of a new fossil fish from the Palszoic rocks of Indiana, by Drs. Norwood and D. D. Owen, for which they propose the name Macropetalichthys rapheidolabis. ‘This is (as far as is known to the describers) not only the first instance of finding scutcheoned fishes in this country, but also the lowest position in which remains of vertebrate have been found, if we except defensive fin bones, which occur in New York, nearly in the same geological position,— viz: in the corniferous group—and the scales of fishes, which the Professors Rogers traced throughout the Clinton group of Pennsylvania and Virginia.” —_ = Marcu, 1846.] 31 Stated Meeting, March 24, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimen, in spirits, of Loligo Bartramii, Lesueur, from Caraccas. Presented by Dr. H. McMurtrie. Sterna of fourteen species of N. American birds. Presented by Mr. William Gambel. Specimen of Septaria, from the vicinity of Fort Barber, Bar-: ber Co., Alabama. From Dr. Charles Kenworthy, through Dr. Watson. A fine collection of fossils, from the green sand near Burling- ton, N. J., consisting of Baculities ovatus, Ammonites pla- centa, A. Delawarensis, Scaphites Cuvieri, Nautilus De- kayi, with undertermined casts of Strombus, Cardium, Pina, Inoceramus, Cuculloea, Turritella, Panopoa, &c. From Mr. Germain, of Burlington, through Dr. Hallowell. A collection of marine and fresh water shells. From Dr. Hallowell. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Structure and classification of Zoophytes. By James D. Dana, A. M., Geologist of the U. S. Exploring Expedition, during the years 1838, 39, 40, 41 and ’42. 4to: Philadelphia. From the Author. Memoir on the probable constitution of matter and laws of motion, &c. &. By J. L. Riddell, M. D. From the Au. thor. On the Nile alluvium of Nubia, (extracted from the Proceed- ings of A. N. 8.,) being a letter from Prof. Lepsius of Ber- lin, and an analysis by Prof. W. R. Johnson. From Dr, Morton. On the Unity of the Human Race, (from the Southern Quar- terly Review, No. 17, Jan., 1846.) From Dr. J. C. Nott. 32 [Marcn, 1846. A letter was read from Clot Bey, M. D., dated Cairo, Egypt, Jan 21, 1846, acknowledging the reception of his diploma as a correspondent, and expressing his desire and intention to further the objects of the Academy. Dr. Morton offered some observations (intended for publi- cation in the American Journal of Science) on the Ethno- graphy and Archeology of the Aboriginal race of America. Dr. Morton called attention to the cretaceous fossils pre- sented this evening by Mr. Lewis Germain, and especially to the numerous fine fragments of Ammonites Delawarensis, of which only a single specimen had hitherto been discovered in the cretaceous beds of New Jersey or Delaware. Even that specimen had been lost or mislaid, and there remained no voucher for the species, excepting an uncertain fragment from Alabama, which is now identified with the A. Delawarensis, by means of Mr. Germain’s collection. The Scaphites Cuvieriis more perfect than any other hitherto found, excepting only the specimen in Mr. Conrad’s cabinet, and which is figured in Dr. Morton’s synopsis of organic re- mains. The Baculites ovatus of Say, heretofore a very rare species, is here represented by nearly twenty finely characterised specimens. The Nautilus Dekayi is also almost perfect ; and the Ammonites placenta, Pholadomya occidentalis, Pecten quinquecostatus, a Strombus, Turritella, and various other genera, are found in this remarkable series, which was obtained from a single marl excavation, about five miles east of Burlington, in New Jersey. Meeting for Business, March 31, 1846. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. The Committee to whom was referred the following notice by Prof. Locke, (contained in a letter addressed to Dr. Mor- ton, and read at the meeting of March 10th,) of an Asterias from the blue limestone of Cincinnati, reported in favor of publication. ' “J herewith send you a drawing of an Asterias from the blue limestone of Cincinnati. It seems to be five-rayed and /ree, thus ee a co Marcu, 1846.] differing essentially from the “ Agelacrinites” (Asteriacrinites) of the New York reports, which is also found here, attached, almost always, toa Strophomena or some other large shell, but rather rare. This last it will be recollected, has five rays ex- tended on an acicular disk, reaching even beyond the rays. The specimen from which this drawing has been made, is so far as I know, the only one which has been found here; it is therefore rare. Whether it be identical with an Asterias described by Dr- Troost as occurring in the rocks of Tennessee, I cannot say, as I have never seen his account. RR ; ANE Has 2, NN SUP AWS whey ys 5 ane “iy iy jiyee hj) SS alin I jl Asterias antiquata.—Blue limestone, Cincinnati. a, An entsochite. b, Atrypa minnta? ¢, Ceriopora milliporacea. Locke. 34 Y (Marcu, 1846. ‘‘T saw in the proceedings of your Society a notice of Dr. Tay- lor’s specimens, describing them as from the carboniferous lime- stone. Mr. Featherstonhaugh and Dr. Troost have given authori- ty, I believe, for calling this limestone the carboniferous, and in a paper read before our geological Association, I maintained the same views chiefly from Lithological characters. The more ac- curate test by the fossil remains, Iam convinced determines our limestone to be the equivalent of the Lower Silurian. With this view it is interesting to find the Asterias at so low a point in the geological column; as it was formerly supposed not to extend below even the secondary rocks.” The Committee on Mr. Edward Harris’s paper on the dif- ference of level between the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and those of the Atlantic Ocean, reported in favor of pub- lication. On the Difference of Level between the Waters of the Gulf of Mexico and those of the Atlantic Ocean. By Epwarp Harris. While on a passage along the coast of Florida in the spring of 1844, in the U. S. Revenue Cutter Nautilus, Capt. Waldron, having on board Mr. Stacy, U. States Commissioner for the in- spection of the Lighthouses, we stopped on the 28th of April to examine at Key Biscayne, the ruins of the lighthouse burnt by the Indians in 1886. The next day we took the boats with kegs to procure water for the vessel; passed inside of Cape Florida, and ascended the Miami River about five miles to where it issues from the Everglades. I was surprised to find that the water from the everglades falls into the river over an exceedingly porous limestone rock resembling Travertine, so open, that in nu- merous places at the foot of the rapids, which are about two hundred yards in length, the water spouts up from the small round holes in the rock, in little natural fountains of from one foot to eighteen inches in height. I estimated the fall at from seven to eight feet, which cannot be far from the truth, as there is a mill at their foot for grinding the Coontic root, (Zamia integrifolia, Aprin, 1846.] 35 from which the Florida arrow root is made,) having a dam six feet high, with a fall in the tail-race to high water in the river, of not less than 18 inches. There had been a severe drought of five months, and the bed of the everglades was quite dry, with the exception of the brook running over the rapids, which, as far up as I explored it, lay upon the travertine rock, at about eighteen inches below the level bed of the everglades of hard sand, and covered with a strong wiry grass from two to three feet high. This fact of the fall of the waters of the everglades into the Atlantic, has, so far as I can as- certain, hitherto remained unpublished ; nor have I been able to learn that it was known to our officers during the war. Their op- erations were principally on the Gulf side of the Peninsula, where they entered and passed long distances into the everglades without meeting with obstruction to the boat navigation. It appears to me that, considered in connection with the great rapidity of the Gulf stream in passing through the Straits of Florida, indicating a flow from a higher level, this fall is a very strong link in the chain of evidence which goes to prove that the sea is at a higher level on the Western than on the Hastern coast of the peninsula of Florida. ELECTION. The Rev. Thomas §. Savage, M. D., of Cape Palmas, Africa, was elected a Correspondent. Slated Meeting, April 7, 1846. Vice Prestpent Mor ton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A large collection of Reptilia, in spirits, from Brazil. Pre- sented by Mr. Edward Donnelly, through Mr. Cassin. A very fine collection of African shells, presented by the Rey. Dr. Savage, of Monrovia, through Mr. Phillips, con- sisting of the following : 36 Solen Guineensis Thracia : Mactra Saulii M. exoleta ? Lucina L. columbella Psammobia galathea ? Tellina strigosa Cyrena Venus plicata Venus V. rotundata Cytherea floridella C. prostrata Cardium ringens C. costatum Cardita ajar Area senilis Pecten Helix Blandingiana Achatina involuta Pupa capitata Cerithium muricatum. [Aprin, 1846. Cerithium granulatum Melania aurita Melampus Pleurotoma Cancellaria cancellata Triton : Fusus nifat Buccinum Purpura coronata P. neritoidea Terebra senegalensis Cassis fasciata Murex cornutus Strombus bubonius Turritella Marginella cornea M. Adansonii M. persicula Oliva acuminata O. hiatula Voluta Neptuni Conus papilionaceus Mounted specimen of Strix nyctea, from the vicinity of Phila- delphia. From Mr. John Churchman, through Mr. Cassin. Two specimens of fossiliferous iron ore, from the vicinity of Cumberland, Md. From Prof. Johnson. Albino specimen of Scalops Canadensis, from Moorestown, N. J. From Mr. Edward Harris. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Report of the Exploring Expedition to the Rocky Mountains in 1842, and to Oregon and California in 1843 and 1844. By Brevet Capt. J. C. Fremont. Washington: 1845. From Jos. R. Ingersoll, Esq. Another copy of the same. From Prof. Johnson. APRIL, 1846.] 37 Report on Atlantic Mail Steamers, by the Committee of Con- gress on Post Offices and Post Roads. Read March 27th, 1846. From Jos. R. Ingersoll, Esq. Seventeenth Annual Report of the Inspectors of the Eastern State Penitentiary of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, 1846. From Dr. Morton. The London Athenzeum for Aug. and Sept., 1843, containing several papers of interest in Natural Science. From Dr. Wm. Blanding. The following pamphlets were received from Richard K. Haight, Esq., of New York. Memoire sur le traitement de l’alienation mentale, par M. le Dr. A. Petit. Paris, 1843. De la meningite cerebro- rachidienne, et de l’encephalo-meningite epidemiques: par J. F. Rollet. Paris, 1844. Nouvelle methode de traite- ment de l’empoisonnement par l’arsenic, &c.: par M. Rog- netta, D. M. P. Paris, 1840. The Chairman read an extract of a letter from M. Agassiz, dated from Neufchatel, Switzerland, acknowledging the re- ceipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent, and an- nouncing his intention of visiting this country for scientific purposes during the present year. Prof. Johnson informed the Society that he had presented in person to the Chairman of the Joint Library Committee of Congress, a copy of the resolutions passed at a recent meeting of the Society,* asking for an“increased edition of the scien- tific reports of the late South Sea Exploring Expedition, and stated that the committee were favorably disposed towards the measure. | *See page 18 of last number. 38 | [ApriL, 1846. Stated Meeting, April 14, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Fine specimen of Pecten Mortoni, Ravenel; from the Miocene of South Carolina. From Dr. Morton. An additional series of fossils from the green sand near Bur- lington, N. J., including also fine specimens of Clypeaster florealis, and Trochus leprosus; also a large and a small tooth and two vertebree of Mosasaurus occidentalis. From Mr. Lewis Germain, of Burlington. Dr. Morton deposited ten mummied Peruvian crania, and two entire mummied bodies in their wrappings; collected by Mr. William A. Foster, of this city, at the cemetery of Arica. Specimen of Pholadomya occidentalis, from the cretaceous deposits of New Jersey. From Dr. Morton. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. American Quarterly Journal of Science and Agriculture; by Drs. E. Emmons and A. J. Prince. Vol. 2, No. 2. Albany, 1845. From the Editors. American Journal of Science and Arts. 2d Series, No. 2. March, 1846. From the Editors. Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York. Vol. 4, No. 5. New York: 1846. From the Lyceum. Notices of new localities of rare minerals and reasons for uniting several supposed distinct species. By Francis Alger. (From the Boston Journal of Natural History.) From the Author. Descriptions of some new species of shells. By John H. Red- field. (From the 4th vol. of Annals of Lyceum of Natural History of New York.) From the Author. Mineral lands of the United States. A message from the President of the United States in reply to a resolution of ApRIL, 1846.] 3g the House of Representatives of 6th of January last, con- cerning the mineral lands of the United States. From J. R. Ingersoll, Esq. Dr. Morton read the following extract of a letter addressed to him by Prof. Bailey, of West Point. “JT have lately hit upon some processes for revealing vege- table structure in anthracite coal, which have yielded results of unhoped for interest and beauty. I get, not mere traces of parenchymatous tissue, as by Schultz’s process, described in Silliman’s Journal, No. 1, new series, but I readily obtain surfaces of several square inches, entirely covered over with dotted or scalariform vessels, (bothrenchyma) in so perfect a state, that their minute markingS may be seen as easily as upon the vessels of a recent plant. “JT can prepare these, either as opake or transparent objects, and all to whom I have shown them, including Tor- rey, Gray, Prof. Henry and others, think them very beautiful. “A brief notice of these will appear in the forthcoming number of Silliman’s Journal.” Dr. Morton offered some remarks upon the additional fossils from Burlington Co., N. J., presented this evening by Mr. Lewis Germain. Among the most remarkable are three Specimens of Clypeaster florealis, of which only a single im- perfect specimen had hitherto been found, and which had served the purpose of specific description. The series also contains a fine specimen of the Trochus leprosus, not before found north of the cretaceous beds of Alabama. The cha- racteristic species, Pecten quinquecostatus, and Baculites ovatus, are also among Mr. Germain’s collections, together with a very large and a small tooth, and two vertebree of the Mosasaurus occidentalis, in admirable preservation. - Dr. Morton also made the following observations on the Peruvian remains deposited by him this evening. These ten crania: and two mummied bodies, were exhumed from the Indian cemetery at Arica, under the direction of our ? 40 [Aprin, 1846. member, Mr. Wm. A. Foster, now resident in Lima, ‘“ This cemetery,” observes Mr. Foster, “lies on the face of a sand-hill, sloping towards the sea. The extent of surface occupied by these tombs, as far as we explored, I should say was five or six acres. In many of the tombs three or four bodies were found clustered together, always in the sitting posture, and wrapped in three or four thicknesses of cloth, with a mat thrown over all.” The most interesting circumstance connected with these heads is the fact that with two exceptions they present the artificial form of horizontal elongation, though in very variable degrees. The most casual notice will convince any one, that this conferma- tion has been in part produced by compresses on the forehead, and partly, as Dr. Goddard has suggested, by the use of simple rotary bandages. Thus a double compress has been applied to the forehead, one bearing on each side of the frontal suture of in- fancy; these have been kept in their places by a bandage brought from the base of the occiput obliquely over the forehead ; while the parietal bones have been depressed by carrying the same band- age alternately over the top of the head, immediately behind the coronal suture, Any person who is acquainted with the form and pliableness of the infant head at or soon after birth, will refdily conceive how effectually the above plan would operate in moulding the cranium into the elongated or cylindrical form; for while it prevents the anterior portion from rising, and the sides from expanding, it al- lows the occipital region an entire freedom of growth; and thus without diminishing the volume of the brain, merely forces it into a different, though unnatural direction, and preserves, at the same time, the symmetry of the whole structure, The series of skulls presents, in a most satisfactory manner, all the grades of this process; leaving no longer a doubt as to the precise means by which it has been accomplished. Stated Meeting, April 21, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. Mr. Gambel read a paper containing remarks on the birds of Upper California, which was referred to a com- Aprin, 1846.] 4} mittee consisting of Messrs. Cassin, Townsend and Wood- house. Dr. Morton read a description of two new species of fossil Echinodermata from the Eocene of the United States. Re- ferred to Prof. Johnson, Mr. R. C. Taylor and Dr. Zantzinger. Meeting for Business, April 28, 1846. Vice Prustpent Morton in the Chair. The Committee to whom was referred the following paper. read 3d of March last, reported in favor of publication. On the Fossil Squalide of the United States. By Rozert W. Gispss, M. D., of Columbia, South Carolina, Upon a careful comparison of the descriptions and plates of the admirable work of Agassiz, ‘Sur les Poissons Fossiles,” belonging to the Library of the South Carolina College, I have identified in my collection a large num- ber of the teeth of Squalides. [have three which I cannot refer to any of his species, and therefore consider them probably new. 1. Charcharodon megalodon, Agassiz. Eocene, 8. C. Agassiz refers this to the Miocene, as Lord Enniskillen has a specimen from the ‘“‘molasse” of Switzerland, and Mr. Charlesworth notices it from ‘the crag” of England. My finest specimen measures six inches in length, and five across the root. 2. Charcharodon rectideus, Agassiz. Post Pliocene, S. C., from Hocene. This measures five inches in length, and four and a quarter inches across the base of the root. It was sent to me as found in an excavation on the suburbs of Charleston, for the foundation of a building at the rail road depot. Beds of Post Pliocene underlie that city, and among the shells of that forma- tion these teeth (two) were found. If no mistake occurred, (as my friend had them twelve years,) and they were actually found here, they were pro- bably washed down from the Hocene marl, which is only a few miles off. A, fine C. megalodon was found in the harbor of Charleston, and occasionally other Hocene and Miocene remains are found on the beaches close by. I have classed it with my Eocene specimens, as Agassiz, from a specimen in the “Museum d’Histoire Naturelle de Paris,” has referred it to this period. Hesays: ‘La nature des fragmens attachés a 1’ os basilaire d’ une ? 44 [Apri 1846. The Committee on Mr. Wm. Gambel’s paper, read ¢ last meeting, reported in favour of publication. Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California. By Wii.iaM GAMBEL. ACCIPITRES. Cathartes Californianus, Shaw. Californian Vulture. This immense and interesting bird, rivalling the condor in size, a2 con- fined exclusively to the Pacific coast, is particularly abundant in Cafornia during winter ; when they probably come from Oregon, as they are ud to disappear from the region of the Columbia at that time. It is not always so shy and difficult of approach, as has been reporti, and like the Turkey buzzard, it is most so when solitary, but often ventureto the neighbourhood of the towns without much fear of man.* It is very voracious, and nothing less than the carcase of a horse or oy can make a meal for many of them; but such food is abundant, at least in ve fall of the year, where the dry pasturage has been destroyed by fire, accidvtally orintentionally, by the Indians. These fires extend over large tracts otoun- try, and in consequence many cattle perish, as well as from the smmer drought. It is not uncommon to see them assemble with the gulls, and gmndily devour the carcase of a whale which had been cast ashore; they wi also frequently pursue wounded game. The male in perfect plumage has the skin of the head and neck omge- yellow, and the irides carmine. Cathartes aura, Linn. Turkey Vulture. The Turkey buzzard is quite as abundant and familiar in Californias it ig in the southern parts of the United States. It is seldom molested, « ac- count of its usefulness in ridding the neighbourhood of the towns andarm houses of the refuse of the cattle, which are slaughtered in great numbs. *I may mention here an instance of the great disposition in the Vultres to become domesticated, and to show how much they differ in character om the other Accipitres with which they are classified. A Condor, which saw in Valparaiso, Chili, during the early part of last year, was allowed tooam the city at large, and from its remarkable docility received kind treatent from every one. It would follow and walk alongside of a person like dog, for a considerable distance, and offer no resistance to being handled onaye its feathers or wings smoothed down. It would ascend a long hill leadix to @ part of the city where the foreigners resided, and when tired of the ace, or after having obtained all it could procure to eat, it would spread its "ge wings and soar down to the city, alighting perhaps on a steeple or iher lofty point. It would receive the caresses of children, and permit the: to beat it with switches, or even to attempt to get uponits back. It wasond of thrusting its bill into my pocket, and under the straps of my pantalms, at the same time shutting its eyes and allowing me to rub and scrate its head. In fact, I think that I have never met with any bird which exhited more tameness or greater confidence in man than this large and remarkole Condor. I was informed that several other similar instances had been knwn there. rr. > Fas ow. = ™ Anti, 1846.] 45 he Carrion Crow (C. atratus, Wils.) is very common about the Gulf of Cafornia, and at Mazatlan, particularly, may be seen around the town in laregangs. In company with them I think I have also seen that new and peectly distinct species detected in the collection of the Academy, and deribed by my friend Mr. Cassin.* Probably both may be found in Uper California. vietus leucocephaius, Linn. Bald Eagle. bundant ; in winter feeding on the ducks and geese which cover the pus in immense flocks. have found the nest on high isolated rocks along the coast, containing ees as early as the middle of February. 4 interesting circumstance connected with this noble eagle, as the em- bim of our country, is, that it was held sacred by the native tribes of Indians ofie coast and interior of California, as I have frequently been informed. nother large brown Eagle, the Aguila réal, (probably the bird of Wash- imon,) is said by the Indians and others to be occasionally observed here. Podion Carolinensis, Gmel. Fish Hawk. ommon along the coast, particularly the rocky islands, where they bed. At Santa Catalina I found them nesting on the precipitous cliffs, in’ebruary, along with the bald eagles. fvaétes Sancti Johannis, Gmel. Rough-legged Buzzard. ommon in the prairie-valleys during winter, keeping much on the grand. The adult in his dark livery, although frequently seen, is much les common than the young. veo borealis, Gmel. Red-tailed Buzzard. ‘ery abundant; as also in the interior in the ranges of the Rocky mountains. Jveo lineatus, Gmel. Red-shouldered Buzzard. he shrill kee ou of this handsome species may be heard at all times arand the vineyards and farms of the lower portions of Upper California, wore it is more abundant than about Monterey. Feo Swainsoni, Bonap. Rocky Mountain Buzzard. Exeo montana, Nutt. Man., p. 112, 2d ed. Leulgaris, Aud., pl. 372, et auc. his species was first brought from the fur countries by Richardson, whe cosidered it identical with the European Buteo vulgaris. onaparte in his comparative list of the birds of Europe and America, dis- tipnishes it by the specific name of Swainsoni, quoting Audubon’s descrip- tio and plate of the specimen brought from Oregon by Townsend. ‘y friend Nuttall retains the common buzzard as an inhabitant of the fur contries, on the authority of Richardson, and refers Bonaparte’s synonym tohat species, describing this, which he considers sufficiently distinct, un- dethe name of White-throated Buzzard, Buteo montanus. ichardson describes the nest as containing from three to five eggs, equal Yathartes Burrovianus, Cassin, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. 2, p. 212. 44 [Aprit, 1846. The Committee on Mr. Wm. Gambel’s paper, read at last meeting, reported in favour of publication. Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California. By WrttiaM GAMBEL. ACCIPITRES. Cathartes Californianus, Shaw. Oalifornian Vulture. This immense and interesting bird, rivalling the condor in size, and con- fined exclusively to the Pacific coast, is particularly abundant in California during winter ; when they probably come from Oregon, as they are said to disappear from the region of the Columbia at that time. It is not always so shy and difficult of approach, as has been reported, and like the Turkey buzzard, it is most so when solitary, but often ventures to the neighbourhood of the towns without much fear of man.* It is very voracious, and nothing less than the carcase of a horse or cow can make a meal for many of them; but such food is abundant, at least in the fall of the year, where the dry pasturage has been destroyed by fire, accidentally orintentionally, by the Indians. These fires extend over large tracts of coun- try, and in consequence many cattle perish, as well as from the summer drought. It is not uncommon to see them assemble with the gulls, and greedily devour the carcase of a whale which had been cast ashore; they will also frequently pursue wounded game. The male in perfect plumage has the skin of the head and neck orange- yellow, and the irides carmine. Cathartes aura, Linn. Turkey Vulture. The Turkey buzzard is quite as abundant and familiar in California as it is in the southern parts of the United States. It is seldom molested, on ac- count of its usefulness in ridding the neighbourhood of the towns and farm houses of the refuse of the cattle, which are slaughtered in great numbers. *I may mention here an instance of the great disposition in the Vultures to become domesticated, and to show how much they differ in character from the other Accipitres with which they are classified. A Condor, which I saw in Valparaiso, Chili, during the early part of last year, was allowed to roam the city at large, and from its remarkable docility received kind treatment from every one. It would follow and walk alongside of a person like a dog, for a considerable distance, and offer no resistance to being handled or have its feathers or wings smoothed down. It would ascend a long hill leading to a part of the city where the foreigners resided, and when tired of the place, or after having obtained all it could procure to eat, it would spread its large wings and soar down to the city, alighting perhaps on a steeple or other lofty point. It would receive the caresses of children, and permit them to beat it with switches, or even to attempt to get uponits back. It was fond of thrusting its bill into my pocket, and under the straps of my pantaloons, at the same time shutting its eyes and allowing me to rub and scratch its head. In fact, I think that I have never met with any bird which exhibited more tameness or greater confidence in man than this large and remarkable Condor. I was informed that several other similar instances had been known there. ApriL, 1846.] 45 The Carrion Crow (C. airatus, Wils.) is very common about the Gulf of California, and at Mazatlan, particularly, may be seen around the town in largegangs. In company with them I think I have also seen that new and perfectly distinct species detected in the collection of the Academy, and described by my friend Mr. Cassin.* Probably both may be found in Upper California. Halietus leucocephaius, Linn. Bald Eagle. Abundant; in winter feeding on the ducks and geese which cover the plains in immense flocks. I have found the nest on high isolated rocks along the coast, containing eggs as early as the middle of February. An interesting circumstance connected with this noble eagle, as the em- blem of our country, is, that it was held sacred by the native tribes of Indians of the coast and interior of California, as I have frequently been informed. Another large brown Eagle, the Aguila réal, (probably the bird of Wash- ington, ) is said by the Indians and others to be occasionally observed here. Pandion Carolinensis, Gmel. Fish Hawk. Common along the coast, particularly the rocky islands, where they breed. At Santa Catalina I found them nesting on the precipitous cliffs, in February, along with the bald eagles. Butaétes Sancti Johannis, Gmel. Rough-legged Buzzard. Common in the prairie-valleys during winter, keeping much on the ground. The adult in his dark livery, although frequently seen, is much less common than the young. Buteo borealis, Gmel. Red-tailed Buzzard. Very abundant; as also in the interior in the ranges of the Rocky mountains. Buteo lineatus, Gmel. Red-shouldered Buzzard. The shrill kee ou of this handsome species may be heard at all times around the vineyards and farms of the lower portions of Upper California, where it is more abundant than about Monterey. Bnteo Swainsoni, Bonap. Rocky Mountain Buzzard. Buteo montana, Nutt. Man., p. 112, 2d ed. B. vulgaris, Aud., pl. 372, et auc. This species was first brought from the fur countries by Richardson, whe considered it identical with the European Buteo vulgaris. Bonaparte in his comparative list of the birds of Europe and America, dis- tinguishes it by the specific name of Swainsoni, quoting Audubon’s descrip- tion and plate of the specimen brought from Oregon by Townsend. My friend Nuttall retains the common buzzard as an inhabitant of the fur countries, on the authority of Richardson, and refers Bonaparte’s synonym to that species, describing this, which he considers sufficiently distinct, un- der the name of White-throated Buzzard, Buteo montanus. Richardson describes the nest as containing from three to five eggs, equal * Cathartes Burrovianus, Cassin, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. 2, p. 212. ? 46 [Aprin, 1846. in size to those of the common fowl, and of a greenish white colour, with a few dark brown blotches at the thick end. Townsend, who brought it from the Rocky mountains, found it breeding there in July, the nest con- taining two white eggs. A. L. Heermann, M.D., during a recent trip to the prairies, found this species breeding near the Platte River, and also procured the eggs, of which he kindly furnished me with a drawing and description. It is considerably smaller than that of the European buzzard, and differs from it in being pure white, with a few dark brown blotches on the smaller end, while the latter is of a bluish or greenish tinge, with faded marks of a neutral tint, apparently sunk into the shell, and scattering blotches of dark brown. The account given me of its nest by Dr. Heermann agrees so exactly with that of Rich- ardson, that I have no doubt of its being the same bird. Elanus leucurus, Bonap. White-tailed Elanus. This active, beautiful hawk, is not unfrequent in California. At the mission of St. John, between Monterey and St. Francisco, I procured three specimens in one day. It flies low and circling over the plains in the manner of a marsh hawk, feeding on the small birds which are so abundant on the ground. It is easy of approach when perched on trees, and utters a very loud shrill ery, particularly when wounded and caught, fighting viciously. Falco anatum, Bonap. Peregrine Falcon. Occasionally seen along the coast, nesting on cliffs near the sea. Falco Columbarius, Linn. Pidgeon Falcon. Common throughout the Western coast. Cercneis Sparverius, Linn. Sparrow Hawk. This familiar little species is abundant throughout the country. Astur Fuscus, Gmel. Sharp-shinned hawk. Our pugnacious and daring little marauder appears to be distributed over the whole of N. America. Astur Cooperii, Bonap. Cooper’s Hawk. The most remarkable similarity exists between the plumage of this spe- cies and the former in every age; and although the great difference in size renders it impossible to mistake them, I think that if we depended upon the plumage alone, no sufficiently distinguishing marks could be given. We find, in fact, in every department of natural science, that those cha- racters, which in one genus or family can be relied upon as showing specific differences, are, in others, almost useless, or at best perplexing. This bird is common throughout the Pacific coast. Strigiceps uliginosus, Gmel. Marsh Hawk. In low valleys or marshes throughout California, the Roeky mountains, and New Mexico, we are sure to find this widely disseminated species. Bubo Virginianus, Gmel. Great Horned, or Cat Owl. Common in the wooded regions of Upper California. APRIL, 1846.] AT Athene socialis, Nobis. Barrowing Owl. Strix cunicularia, Bonap., Aud., Nutt. This bird, which hitherto has been considered the same throughout the wide range of North and South America, may,] think, be separated on as good grounds as many of the owls which are generally admitted to be distinct. It is unnecessary to repeat here the excellent descriptions which have been given by Bonaparteand Audubon of N. American specimens of the burrowing owl I shall merely state wherein I think ours differs from the S. American species I conceive it to differ in the general colour, being lighter in our species. with the markings and quills usually of a pale yellowish or cinnamon hue while in the other the colour is always much deeper and approaching dusky. The most marked difference exists in the feet and legs, which are in ours slender and delicate, while in the other they are longer and much stouter. The wings are shorter, and have the first and fifth quills equal, if any- thing, the first longest: in the S. American the fifth quill is considerably longer than the first. The bill in ours is smaller in every way, and of a dusky horn colour, ex- cept at the ridge and edges ; in the other it appears to be dusky only at the base. But how can either of these agree with the description given of the Co- quimbo owl, by Brisson, as being so much larger, with the tailof a dirty- white colour and immaculate ? I have seen this bird in New and Old Mexico, on the Rocky mountains, and in California ; ineach place presenting little difference in its habits. It always lives in burrows in the ground, either solitary, as I have frequently een it, or in small companies. If it can avail itself of the labours of other animals, it will always do so, so that it is a constant interloper in the habi- tations of the prairie dogs, and in California in those of the large ground squirrel, which is there so very common. It however often digs for itself, and lives in scattered companies of four or five. Nuttall is, I think, mistaken with regard to its migrating from California in August. Ihave seen it there at all periods of the year. On the prairies its note is said to resemble that of Marmots, with which it is associated. The account which Vieillot gives of its nocturnal habits and note, has been doubted by Bonaparte and my friend Nuttall. During the breeding season, while sleeping near their burrows, I have been awakened by its low, measured and solemn cry, uttered much in the manner of its congeners, but peculiarly solemn. Nyctale Acadica, Gmel. Little Night Owl. I procured but one specimen of this species at Monterey in October. Striz pratnicola, Bonap. Barn Owl. This delicate feathered and familiar fowl, which, hitherto, I believe has not been known to exist west of the Atlantic coast, I found very abundantly in California, and presenting all the habits ascribed to its European relative. Its favorite resort is in the neighborhood of the towns and ruined Missions, al- though it may be found also about farm houses,and occasionallyin the prairie valleys, which furnish it with abundance of mice and other small animals for 48 [April, 1846. subsistence. It makes its nest under the tiled roofs of the houses of the towns, numbers under one roof,and shows but little fear when approached. I have scarcely ever visited a mission without disturbing some of these birds, which were roosting about the altar, chandelier, &c., of the chapel, and hearing the bendition of the Padre for drinking all the oil ont of the lamps. Every where in California, when speaking of it, we are sure to be told of its pro- pensity for drinking the sacred oil; with what truth I cannot say. The specimens which I have examined agree in every respect with those from this side of the continent, and present the constant characters given by Audubon to distinguish it from the European species. (To be continued.) The following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy. William M. Baird, of Reading, Pa. William Gourlie, Jr., Esq., of Glasgow, Scotland. Nicolai Aall, of Christiana, Sweden, And Mr. Lewis Germain, of Burlington, N. J., was elected a Member of the same. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Wor, Tf. MAY AND JUNE, 1846. No. 3. Stated Meeting, May 12, 1846. Mr. PHILurps in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. A History of British fossil mammalia and birds. By Richard Owen, F. R.S. Part xi. London: Dec., 1845. From Dr. Thomas B. Wilson. Bulletin of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Vol. 1, No. 5. From the Society. Proceedings of the Providence Franklin Society. Vol. 1, No. 1. From the Society. A Geological map of England and Wales. From Roderick Impey Murchison, Esq., of London, through Professor Silliman. Annual Report of the Leeds Philosophical Society for 1844 and 45. From the Society. Dr. Hallowell read a paper, entitled ‘Some account of the Anatomy of the Harpyia destructor, or Harpy Eagle of S. America.’ Referred to a committee consisting of Drs. Morton, Bridges and Leidy. f 8 50 [May, 1846. Dr. Hallowell also read a description of a new species of bat from Western Africa, which was referred to Mr. Cassin, Drs. Leidy and Zantzinger. Dr. Leidy read a paper entitled ‘“* Remarks on the Anatomy of the abdominal viscera of the Sloth, Bradypus tridactylus, L.,”’ accompanied with two drawings representing the uterus containing amembryo, and the embryo with its membranes. Referred to Drs. Morton, Hallowell and Goddard. Stated Meeting, May 19, 1846. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimen, in spirits, of Pteropus Haldemani, Hallowell, a new species of bat from Western Africa, described by Dr. Hallowell in a paper read at last meeting. Presented by Dr. Hallowell. Jaw of a Shark, taken off Cape Island, N. J.; also the beak or muzzle of Squalus pristis, Linn., (common Saw-fish,) from the same locality. Presented by Dr. C. W. Pennock. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Proceedings of the Boston Society of Natural History, Jan., 1846. From the Society. A Synopsis of the Fishes of North America. By David Humphreys Storer, M. D. 4to. Cambridge: 1846. From the Author. American Journal of Arts and Sciences. Vol. 1, No. 3. New series. From the Editors. American Quarterly Journal of Agriculture and Science, con- ducted Drs. Emmons and Prime. Vol. 3, No. 2. From the Editors. Prof. Johnson offered some observations on the subject of floating docks, illustrating, by means of models and drawings, the principles of construction, and their application to prac- tical purposes. May, 1846.] Bl - ~ Meeting for Business, May 26, 1846. Vick PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The Committee to whom was referred the following, re- ported in favor of publication. Descriptions of Two New Species of Fossil Echinodermata, from the Eocene of the United States. By Samvuet Grorce Morton, M. D. Genus C1pARISs. C. Alabamensis. Compressed, pentagonal, the angles rounded so as to form a ten-sided figure. Ten rows of tubercles, with nine or ten in each row. Ambulacra arranged in five pairs, with delicate, slightly oblique fissures separated by a double ele- vated line. Surface between the tubercles and ambulacra finely granulated. Genus GALERITES. G.? Agassii. Elevated, hemispherical, with four pairs of am_ bulacra which diverge from the apex and meet at the margin, having each two rows of pores connected by transverse fissures. Surface marked by numerous, distinct granulations, which are continued over the whole base of the fossil. I have much pleasure in dedicating this remarkable species to M. Louis Agassiz, whose profound researches into this class of organized beings have thrown much new light on their structure, affinities and geological relations. Both these fossils were found by Dr. Albert Koch, in the Eocene strata of Washington Co., Alabama, and by him politely submit- ted to me for description. 52 [May, 1846. The Committee to whom was referred a description of a new bat from Western Africa, by Dr. Hallowell, reported 1 in favor of publication. Description of a New Species of Bat from Western Africa. By Epwarp Hatowe 1, M. D. Preropus Haldemani. Description.—General expression ferocious; head resembling that of a dog; ears of moderate size, smooth for the most part, obtuse at the tip, hairy at base externally; there is no tragus; body dark brown above; neck, occiput and vertex same color, but lighter than upon the back; wings and interfemoral membrane of a sienna brown color above and below; thorax and upper part of abdomen and sides brown; the rest of the abdomen is white; there are two long and thin hairs upon the muzzle; lips full, nostrils prominent, their margins being surrounded by a fold of the skin ; eyes rather large, irides ; wings long ; that portion of the membrane included between the phalanges naked, the re- mainder more or less hairy above and below; upper surface of the interfemoral membrane hairy, with the exception of a small part at its posterior extremity which is naked; under surface also hairy, but much less so than upper; no tail; tibia and fibula in- cluded within the membranes; four slender toes, compressed, of nearly equal length, the outer one being a little shorter than the others; they are sparsely furnished with thin hairs, varying in length ; the terminal phalanx of each is provided with a robust, sharp and incurvated nail. The index finger like the thumb is also furnished with a short and incurvated nail. Measurements. Inches. Total length, - - = - “ “ 34 Length of head, - - - - 2 13 Distance between anterior margin of nostril and ante- rior canthus of eye, ll eR = 8 ~ : 0 Distance between angle of mouth and anterior can- thus of eye, - = : E s 3 Length of neck, body and aL - - - 3 Length of forearm, - = 2 - 3 Length of tibia, - = = = ~ - 1} Spread, : = : = e “ bs -pAa Length of thumb, - - - - - 3 May, 1846.] 53 Dental Formula. Incisors. Canines. False Molars. Molars 2 2 1 1 1 i 2 2 re 2 it 1 2 2 3 3 This species I have named after my esteemed friend, S. S. Haldeman, Esq., author of the N. American Limniades, who obtained it with other African animals from Dr. Goheen, Physician to the American Colonization Society. Descriptions of New Species of Coleoptera of the United States. By F. E. Metsuetmer, M. D. (Continued from Vol. 2. page 318. ) Cantharide, Leach. Cantharis, Geoffr. Lytta atrata. Body black, immaculate, Fabr. Syst. El. ii. 70. Var.? a. Black, with the head obscurely rufous. 3-4 1. long. Lytta convolvult, Melsh. MS. It is much smaller than the atrata, and differs from that species, aside of other characters, in being more obviously ashy-pubescent on the lateral margins of the elytra. Both occur on the flowers of bind weed, (Convolvulus sepium, L.) C. nigricornis. Blackish, clothed with a dense yellowish-ashy pubescence. 3 1. long. Alabama. Blackish or dark brownish, densely yellowish pubescent ; head with the medial impressed line distinct ; antennz longer than the thorax, slightly thickened in the middle, with the second joint a little smaller than the fifth; black, glabrous ; eyes blackish; labrum and palpi black; thorax with the sides almost parallel, with the dorsal line distinct; beneath and feet as above. Zonitis, Fabr, Z. lineata. Testaceous-yellow; elytra pale testaceous, with a broad vitta and tibie dusky. 41. long; 141. wide. Pennsylvania. Crioceris lineata, Melsh. Catal. Testaceous-yellow ; head deeply and densely punctured, with the vertex im- punctured, shining; mandibles with the apical half piceous-black; palpi dull testaceous ; antennz : two basal joints brownish ; thorax transverse, round- ed, glossy, with a few scattered punctures ; medial line feebly impressed: scu- tellum color of the thorax, densely punctulate, with the tip impunctured ; elytra testaceous, rugulose, somewhat distantly punctulate ; each with a broad, lon- gitudinal reddish-brown band in the middle, which attains neither the base nor the apex; two or three narrow, obsolete, raised lines: beneath, femora, and tarsi color of the thorax and head; tibia and knees dusky; tarsi simple; claws, besides being cleft, are distinctly pectinate, and each claw furnished with a long hair from near the base. 2. Z. mandibularis. Crioceris mandibularis, Melsh. MS, Form and size of the preceding. 54 [May, 1846. Color of the head, palpi, mandibles, body beneath, femora and tarsi, as in the preceding ; eyes as in the preceding, black; head and thorax punctured as in the preceding; the latter each side of the middle with a short, longitudinal profound impression; scutel as in the preceding; elytra uniform, very pale testaceous, less rugulose, and more closely and distinctly punctured than in the preceding, otherwise as in the preceding; tibi# darker than the femora, and each, as in the preceding, with two spines at tip ; claws as in the preceding. NemoenaTaa, Illig. N. bimaculata. Black; thorax yellow, with two blackish spots. 31. long. Pennsylvania. Black, densely black hirsute: head profoundly and densely punctured; an- tenne black, filiform, with the second joint smallest, the following subequal, first and second joint rather hirsute; eyes black ; a triangular dull rufous spot between the antenne ; mandibles testaceous, with the tips and labrum piceous : thorax yellowish, much and finely punctured, narrower than the head, narrower at base than before the middle; angles rounded; basal edge straight ; sides straight from the base to the anterior curve; each side of the middle before the base, with a roundish oval brownish spot: elytra finely shagreened, with two longitudinal, oblique, raised lines before the middle, very obscurely defined ; wings fuliginous: beneath as above ;‘posterior and intermediate feet blackish : anterior ones brownish. (Edemeride, Leach. IscHNomERA, Steph. I. unicolor. Black; elytra with three faint longitudinal raised lines. 3 1- long. Pennsylvania. Necydalis unicolor, Melsh. MS. Black, opake: head very minutely punctured and wrinkled, with the front dull cyaneous ; tip of the clypeus testaceous ; labrum black ; antenne fuscous, with two basal joints and paJpi dull testaceous: thorax punctured like the head, each side before the middle somewhat depressed ; sides behind the anterior mar- gin abruptly deflexed, and there on the lateral margins a fine, short, transverse raised line ; medial space somewhat flattened, with an cbsolete raised dorsal line: elytra finely shagreened, with three fine, rather obsolete lines, beneath black- cyaneous : feet blackish-brown, tibia and tarsi paler, all with a bluish reflexion. Nacerpa, Stev. 1. N. lateralis. Rufo-testaceous, eyes, lateral margins of the thorax and elytra, and abdomen, blackish. 41. long; 11. wide, Pennsylvania. Rufo-testaceous, finely ashy-pubescent, finely shagreened : antenna ——-; la- brum long, indented at tip; palpi testaceous ; eyes large, round, deep black: thorax rather oblong, narrowed posteriorly ; faintly impressed in front of the scutel, and even less so each side of the middle behind the anterior margin ; sides each with a black spot, much dilated at the anterior margin, and acute towards the hind angles, which it does not attain : elytra paler than the thorax and head, with the sides parallel; a broad blackish vitta, which does not cover the lateral edge and tip; general color of the entire sutural space not as broad as one of the vitte: abdomen brownish: pectus and feet testaceous- yellow. May, 1846.] do 2. N. dorsalis. Pale testaceous,with aspot on the vertex, a dorsal band, and two elytral vittz, fuscous. 43—5% 1. long ;—141. wide. Carolina? Pale testaceous, clothed with a very fine ashy down, very minutely sha- greened: head with a brownish band in the face (9), or only obvious on the vertex ((j'); antenne and palpi testaceous, the former with the two terminal joints equal, both together about as long as the tenth (,¥'); eyes large, deep black, . emarginate at the base of the antenne; thorax, as is common, widest before, with the sides slightly sinuate or retuse in the middle; each side of the middle with two roundish impressions, placed quadrangularly, obvious in the ,j', less so in the 2; a brownish entire dorsal band ; sides in the middle obsoletely brown: elytra slightly narrowed behind, each with two, longitudinal brownish bands, confiuent before the apex: beneath and feet color of above, or ina 2 specimen with the three terminal segments brownish. Xytopuitvs, Latr. X. fusciatus. Black ; antenne, palpi, feet, and base and apex of the elytra, testaceous. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Black, ashy-pubescent : head minutely punctured, with the mouth dull tes- taceous ; antenne and palpi testaceous ; the former as long as the thorax, slightly thickened towards the apex, with the second and third joints subequal in length, the second rather more robust than the third; maxillary palpi with the terminal joint large, securiform : thorax not wider than the head, suborbiculate, with the sides parallel; more coarsely punctured than the head; medial line obsolete: seutellum black, coarsely punctured : elytra wider than the thorax, punctured, punctures large, profound, vicinal, testaceous-yellow, with a common, broad, blue-black fascia in the middle ; scutellar region dusky ; feet testaceous : abdo- men piceous: pectus black, rough with large punctures: posterior femora rather clavate. Melandryide, Leach. MeELANpDRYA, Fabr. ‘* Black; thorax with grooves ; front with an impressed dot; elytra striate and punctured.’’ Melandrya striata, Say, Narrative of an Exped. App. p. 286. Var. a. Sculptured asin the preceding, dull rufous, with the eyes and elytra black ; palpi and tarsi testaceous ; tibie testaceous-yellow ; body beneath and femora, like the thorax, dark dull rufous. Serropalpus thoracicus. Melsh. Catal. Var. b. Sculptured as in the type, with the frontal impression slight, almost obsolete; black above, beneath and femora chestnut-brown ; tibiz, tarsi and palpi testaceous, the two former tinged with rufous. 4}1. long; 1} 1. wide or only about half as large as the type, or preceding variety. It is Serropalpus bicolor, Melsh. Catal. 1. M.? umbrina. Fuscous, ashy-pubescent ; antenne and feet rufous. 51. long; 141. wide. Pennsylvania. Serropalpus umbrinus, Melsh. Catal. Elliptic, brown, densely ashy-pubescent, finely and densely punctured: head with the clypeus broad, obtusely rounded and glabrous at tip; labrum trans- verse, almost covered by the clypeus; each side between the antenne with’an 56 [May, 1846. obtuse impression ; antennz longer than the thorax, filiform, rufous ; first joint clavate, second one-third smaller than the third, which is slightly longer than the fourth ; joints 5—10, subequal, terminal joint longest, rather fusiform ; palpi brown, pilose, with the terminal joint robust, obliquely truncate at tip or slightly securiform ; eyes black, transverse, slightly emarginate ; thorax sub- trapezoidal, as wide at base as the elytra, with the anterior edge truncate, and the posterior one slightly bisinuate; sides very feebly rounded; hind angles rather acute ; each side of the middle at base with asmall and profound impres- sion; scutellum small, transverse-oval: elytra more than four times longer than the thorax ; an obtuse sutural groove behind the middle ; beneath darker ; feet dull rufous ; tibiz armed with two moderate spurs at tip; tarsi long, very slender, simple, with the posterior pair 4-jointed, first joint longer than the following ones taken together. Var. a. As the preceding, but much lighter tinted. Serropalpus fuscus, Melsh. Catal. This species, in consequence of having the palpi not serrated, cannot be placed in the genus Serropalpus, nor in that of Melandrya; perhaps it ought to be referred to the genus Scotodes, Esch., of which I have as yet seen no definition. Hyrvuus, Payk. H. trifasciatus. Rufous; head and three elytral bands black. 241. long. Pennsylvania. Pubescent, densely and finely shagreened: head black, densely granulate, sometimes with the cranial and frontal sutures very distinct; apex of the clypeus, and mouth rufous ; antenne rufous, robust, very slightly longer than the thorax ; palpi prominent, rufous, with the terminal joint compressed: thorax rather quad- rate, slightly widest before the middle, with the anterior edge truncate, and bisinuate at the posterior one ; a profound fovea each side of the middle at base ; rufous, sometimes with the middle of the anterior margin dusky ; elytra rufous, with three common, black fasciez ; the first is on the base, broadest on the seu- tellar region, where it sends off a branch towards the middle fascia, which it nearly reaches ; middle or second fascia, is placed beyond the middle, the third or posterior one is immediately before the apex which it almost covers : feet and beneath more decidedly rufous than the elytra. Scrapria, Latr. S. pallipes. Dark fuscous, feet testaceous: 11. long. Pennsylvania. Dark brown above, minutely punctured, and shagreened: head black, mi- nutely and deeply punctured, with two longitudinal impressions ; mouth dusky ; palpi testaceous ; antenne long, filiform, fuscous; thorax short, transverse, trun- cate in front and behind, with the sides rounded; a large and obtuse impres- sion each side at base ; medial line obsolete: elytra widest behind the middle ; beneath pale brown: feet pale testaceous. Var. a. Chestnut brown; head and thorax darker ; frontal impressions ob- solete; lateral thoracic impressions small, an obvious one in front of the scutel- lum. Hal/omenus minutus, Melsh. Catal. Var. b. Size and form of the type; head black, with the frontal impressions as in Var. a: antenne as in the type; thorax impressed as in Var. a, dull tes- May, 1846.] 57 taceous; elytra dull testaceous, indeterminately black at apex and lateral margins; beneath dusky; feet asin the type. Hallomenus plagiatus, Melsh. MS. Hattouenus, Payk. 1. H. scapularis. Fuscous; antennz, feet and humeritestaceous. 1} 1. long. Pennsylvania. Hallomenus humeralis, Melsh. Catal. Oblong-ovate, dark dull reddish-brown, pubescent, finely and densely wrinkled; head finely and confertly punctured, with the eyes deep black, lunate; antenne, palpi and feet testaceous; mouth piceous: thorax each side of the middle at base with a small fovea: elytra with the anterior exterior angles rufo-testaceous: pectus as above: abdomen palish brown. 2. H.? quadripustulata.. Blackish; elytra with four testaceous spots. 1}1. long. Pennsylvania. Elliptic, blackish, pubescent, densely and obviously shagreened or wrinkled, somewhat glossy: head punctulate; eyes transverse, black; antenne short; testaceous, with the apical half black and arcuated; second and third joints subequal, palpi testaceous, terminal joint of maxillary large; thorax tranverse, widest in the middle, rounded at the sides, with the edges margined; basal edge subtruncate, with the hind angles acute; anterior edge truncate, with the anterior angles deflexed; an obsolete impression each side towards the hind angles; scutel, small, black: elytra with a large testaceous spot at base, and arather transverse-oval similarly colored one midway the apex and middle: feet pale brown, or testaceous, the femora sometimes piceous. The antenne, which are somewhat thickened towards the apex, and the thorax in its outlines, differ greatly from those of the preceding species, which is a true Hallomenus. It might perhaps be placed more correctly in the genus Yilita. Orcuesia, Latr. 1. O. sericea. Testaceous; eyes black. 21. long. Pennsylvania. Rufo-testaceous, yellowish sericeo-pubescent, densely and finely rugose- punctured: beneath rather glabrous, and deeper colored. Perhaps identical with micans, Illig., or only @ local variety of that species. 2. QO. castanea. Fuscous; antenne, palpi and feet rufous. 241. long; #1, wide. Pennsylvania. Hallomenus castaneus, Melsh. Catal. Slender, brown, yellowish-sericeous, densely shagreened: head, dull, dark rufous, with the labrum, palpi, feet and antennez, rufous; eyes black: siorax with the two basal fovee distinct: abdomen color of the feet: pectus darker, in a certain light blackish. 3. O. gracilis. Fuscous; eyes plumbeous. 21.long; $1.wide. Pennsylvania. Hallomenus gracilis, Melsh. Catal. Slender, brown, pubescent, densely and finely shagreened: head as in the preceding; eyes lead color; antennae, palpi, feet and beneath, as in the preceding species: thorax, with the basal fovee somewhat obsolete. Closely allied to the preceding species, but it is always smaller, comparatively more slender, and with a coarser vesture. 58 [May, 1846 Eustroruvs, Ilig. 1. E. 4-maculatus. Dull rufous; elytra black, with four fulvous spots. 2} ]. long; 141. wide. Pennsylvania. Dull rufous or chestnut red, finely pubescent, finely rngose-punctured: head color of the thorax; antennz and palpi rufous, the former with the last joint of the clava paler; eyes black: thorax’each side of the middle at base with a short, acutely impressed line; scutellum transverse, rounded at tip, punctulate: elytra black, with very faint traces of longitudinal obtuse, raised lines; each with two large fulvous spots, of which the first is posted on the humeral angle, and extends obliquely to the subsutural margin, where it is narrower than at its origin; second or posterior spot is a little before the apex, and is transverse, and reaches nearly to the suture: abdomen paler than the thorax; feet and pectus, densely sericeous. 2. E. niger. Black above; beneath reddish brown; elytra punctate-striate. 241. long; 141. wide. Pennsylvania. Mycetophagus niger, Melsh. Catal. Black, very minutely and densely punctured, ashy-pubescent ; mouth piceous ; antenne, palpi and feet rufous; thorax each side of the middle at base with an obsolete obtuse impression: scutellum as in the preceding: elytra punctate- striate, strize very fine, punctures approximate: beneath dusky reddish-brown. This species differs from bicolor, Fabr., which it resembles by its striate elytra, in the outline of the body; that of bicolor is like guadrimaculatus, nob., obovate, and that of niger is rather elliptic. Cistelide, Leach. Eryx, Steph. “Sanguineous; head, elytra and feet black.” Cistela amena, Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. iii. 268. Var. a. As the preceding, with the suture and lateral edges of the elytra rufous. ALLECULA, Fabr. A. pilosa, Fuscous; antenne, palpi and tarsi testaceous. 41. long; 141. wide. Pennsy!vania. Cistela pilosa, Melsh. Catal. Oblong elliptic, dark brown above, ashy-pubescent; head strongly and densely punctured, with the frontal suture distinct; clypeus obtusely rounded, and piceous at tip ; labrum, antenne and palpi testaceous; the former rather piceous; the latter with the last joint of the maxillary distinctly securiform; thorax transverse, as wide at base as the elytra, where it is wider than at apex, with the sides rounded; basal edge rather straight; anterior edge together with the anterior angles obtusely rounded; regularly and deeply punctuate ; each side of the middle towards the hind angles with an obsolete shallow transverse impression; medial line fine, impunctured; asmall obtuse triangular impression in front of the scutel, which is transverse, with a few transverse series of May, 1846.] 59 punctures: elytra elongate, with sides almost parallel; punctate-striate, the strie and punctures very fine; interstices convex, punctulate and rugulose : beneath and feet dark chestnut-red, glossy; tarsi testaceous. May be placed in the new genus Cteniopus, Solier. Mycetocaarvs, Latr. 1. M. niger. Black above; feet rufous. 2}1. long. Pennsylvania. Cistela nigra, Melsh. Catal. Black above, slightly pubescent, rather glossy: head densely punctulate ; palpi ——: antenne reddish brown, with two basal joints paler: thorax punctured, punctures not dense, rather shallow: elytra punctate-striate, with the striz obtuse and the punctures minute, the interstices transversely rugose: beneath chestnut-red ; feet rufous. 2. M. ruficornis. Fuscous; antennz, palpi, feet and base of the elytra testaceous. 21]. long. Pennsylvania. Cistela axillaris, Melsh. Catal. Brown, pubescent, densely punctulate; antennz, labrum, palpi and feet testaceous; thorax at base each side of middle with a small and profound impression; dorsal impression obsolete: scutel brown: elytra densely rugulose; towards the suture with faint traces of the interstices; base broadly and indeterminately testaceous: beneath pale brown: femorarather pale testaceous. This species is distinct from the /raterna, Say, which is not, as Say states, the axillaris of M. Catal. Cisteua, Fabr. 1. C. fuliginosa. Dark fuscous; antenne and tarsi dull rufous. 5-6 1. long; 14-21 1. wide. Pennsylvania. Cistela fuliginosa, Melsh. Catal. Dark brown or blackish, finely ashy-pubescent; head densely punctulate, with the frontal suture distinct; clypeus and labrum dull rufo-piceous; palpi dark piceous ; antenn# dull dark rufous, long, slender in the 9 very slightly serrate: thorax with the outlines as is common; very finely rugose-punctured, punctures confluent; basal margin each side of the middle with a slide impression; transversely and obsoletely indented in front of the scutellum : sides before the hind angles slightly indented; Q with numerous small, obsolete impressions on the disk, and a large one each side behind the anterior angles: scutellum finely and densely punctured ; elytra punctate-striate, strie profound, with the punctures minute, the insterstices convex, wrinkled, and numerously and minutely punctured : beneath somewhat piceous; tarsi color of the antenne. C. punctulata. Black, strongly punctured; palpi and tarsi rufous. 431. long; 21. wide. Pennsylvania. Cistela picipes, Melsh. Catal. Black, clothed with a fine but not dense ashy-pubescence ; head with large, profound and rather distant punctures; frontal suture very distinct and profound; clypeus at tip, and labrum dull rufo-piceous; palpi yellowish- rufous; antenne long, slender, dull reddish-brown: thorax punctured as the head, with the punctures rather larger, deeper, and less vicinal; the ordfmary 60 [May, 1846 basal impressions obsolete; scutellam with a longitudinal impunctured space in the middle: elytrastrongly punctate-striate, the interstices rugose, and with distant punctures: pectus punctured and colored as the thorax; abdomen ——: femora dull chestnut-red; tarsi color of the palpi; tibiwe darker. Distinct from the picipes, Fabr. 3. C. fuscipes. Fuscous; three basal joints of the antenne and feet testaceous, 431. long; 141. wide; of; 5} 1. long; 13 1. wide. Pennsylvania. Cistela fuscipes, Melsh. Catal. Brown, clothed with a fine, dense, ashy-pubescence: head very minutely and confluently punctured, with the front somewhat indented; a longitudinal impressed line, extending from the vertex to the apex of the clypeus, very distinct in the 9; frontal suture obsolete; clypeus at tip, labrum and palpi, dull testaceous: thorax punctured, punctures intensely minute and crowded ; basal impressions obscure ; anterior edge dull rufous ; posterior angles promi- nent and acute, particularly in the Y : scutel punctured as the thorax: elytra punctate-striate, with the strie profound and the punctures transverse and close set, the interstices punctured as the thorax, andinthe ¢@ rather alternately wide: beneath as above; feet pale yellowish-testaceous, the tibie and tarsi rather deeper. The specific name is somewhat inappropriate. C. brevis. Black; antenne, palpi and feet rufous. Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc. iii. 269. It may be added to the above character that the antenne are serrate, mostly fuscous, with three basal joints testaceous. C. sericea. Pale testaceous, immaculate ; elytra absolutely striated near the suture. Length about one-fifth of an inch. Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Se. iii. 270. Long’s Expedit. App. p. 285. Var.? a. Fuscous, antennez, palpi, tibiw, tarsi and suture of the elytra, rufous; the strie of the latter almost entirely effaced. Length somewhat less than the preceding. Cistella pulla, Melsh. MS. Var.? b. Dull rufous, with the head and throat above blackish ; striz of the elytra feebly defined. Length of var. a. Smaller, but altogether like thoracica, Fabr., variety of murina, Fabr. 4. C.nigrans. Black-brown; elytra punctate striate. 3} 1. long; 11. wide. Pennsylvania. Cistela atra, Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc. v. 242. Black-brown, ashy-pubescent; head deeply and not closely punctured ; frontal suture distinct ; eyes closely approximating above; antennz fuscous; palpi piceous; thorax subquadrate, slightly widest in the middle, with the sides obtusely rounded ; truncate in front, slightly waved behind ; punctured, punctures profound, numerous, but not crowded; an obtuse impression in front of the scutellum : elytra deeply punctate-striate, the interstices convex, rugose ; beneath and feet piceous. The specific name atra has been applied by Fabricius to a different species. Var. a. As in the preceding, with the antenna, palpi and feet testaceous; sometimes the antenna, tibie and tarsi, dullrufous. 41. long. Alabama. May, 1846.] 61 Helopide, Steph. Hetops, Fabr. H. tumidus. Black-brassy; elytra gibbose. 6} 1. long; 3}1. wide. Penn- sylvania. Helops ovatus, Melsh. Catal. Ovate, convex, brassy-black, glossy : head densely rugose-punctured, trans- versely obtusely indented between the antennez, with the clypeus honey-yellow and impunctured at tip; labrum piceous at tip; antenne half the length of the body, filiform, dull reddish-brown, with the basal joints piceous ; first joint cla- vate, second short, obconic, third joint as long as the two following ones united, cylindric, fourth joint shorter than the fifth, the three penultimate joints obconic, slightly thicker than the preceding ones; palpi piceous: thorax subquadrate, somewhat wider than long, slightly wider behind than before, where it is not strongly emarginate ; posterior edge truncate ; angles subrectilinear, edges finely margined, convex, punctured as the head; scutellum obtuse-triangular, polished with sparse punctures: elytra at base not wider than the thorax, in the middle nearly twice as wide as at base, with the sides rounded; apex acuminate ; above strongly convex, punctate-striate, with the strie fine and slightly im- pressed, and the punctures small, oblong, and deeply impressed ; interstices flat, distantly punctulate: beneath and feet pitchy-black; tarsi mostly, tibie sometimes, ferruginous; anterior femora clavate, with a small tooth towards the tip. This insect, on account of its very frequent occurrence, has been doubtless already described. I should not hesitate to consider the H. cisteloides of Germar identical with the present species, if that accurate entomologist had not stated that the thorax of cisteloides was ‘‘ postice paullo angustior,’’ which is not the case in,our species, but in numerous specimens before me the thorax is in every instance postice paullo latior. Diaperide, Westeo. TRACHYSCELIS, Latr. T. flavipes. Black; feet testaceous. 131. long. Virginia. Ovate, black, glossy : head impunctured, transversely sulcate between the. antenne ; labrum, mouth, palpi and antenne, rufo-testaceous, the clava of the last pale testaceous ; a small, round indentation on the vertex; thorax short, transverse, moderately convex, impunctured, shining, slightly emarginate in front, behind obtusely rounded, with the sides strongly rounded ; angles round- ed; scutellum obtuse-triangular, piceous: elytra as wide at base as the base of the thorax, widest in the middle, with the sides rounded ; above moderately convex, punctate striate, with the two or three sutural strie wider and deeper impressed than the lateral ones; interstices flat, impunctured; beneath and feet clothed with a long ashy pile, latter rufo-testaceous. Neomipa, Ziegl. 1. N. sanguinicollis. Dull sanguineous ; elytra black, punctate-striate ; head mutic. 1$1. long. Pennsylvania. Diaperis bicolor, Melsh, Catal. ; 62 [ May, 1846, Ovate, dull sanguineous : head minutely punctured, margined and obtusely rounded at apex ; eyes black ; antenne color of the head, thickened towards the tip, with the fourth joint longer than the third, the second joint shorter than any of the other joints ; terminal joint thickest, subglobose : thorax glossy, mo- derately convex, short, transverse, feebly notched in front, slightly bisinuate behind, where it is wider than at apex, and as wide as the base of the elytra ; sides feebly rounded ; above very minutely and distantly punctured ; each side of the middle at base with an obsolete impression ; hind angles subrectilinear : scutellum triangular, color of the thorax : elytra black, tinged with rufous, par- ticularly at the sides, base and tip; punctate-striate, with the stri# fine and slightly impressed; interstices flat, polished, impunctured: beneath deeper colored than the thorax, coarsely punctured ; feet rufo-testaceous. Sometimes the thorax is dusky sanguineous, and the elytra entirely black. 2. N. rufa. Dull rufous, shining ; beneath and feet rufo-testaceous. 2} 1. long; 141. wide. Pennsylvania. Short, ovate, dull rufous ; glossy: head very minutely punctured, rounded at apex, an arcuated impressed line between the antennew, and a small obtuse indentation on the vertex; antenne rufo-piceous, slightly thickened towards the tip, with the third joint longest, and second shortest ; terminal joint ovate ; eyes black ; terminal joint of the palpi triangular ; thorax formed like in the preced- ing, shining, punctured as the head ; each side of the middle at base with an obtuse impression : scutel triangular: elytra punctate-striate, strie fine, punc- tures small, close set ; interstices flat, almost impunctulate: feet and epipleura testaceous-yellow. Resembles much in the outlines of the body Diaperis rufi- cornis, but that species is black and opake, and is also somewhat differently sculptured. PLATYDEMA, Laporte. a P. preilabrum. Black ; antenne, labrum, palpi and feet rufo-piceous. 13— 23 1. long ; 3—1 1-5th1. wide. Pennsylvania. Numerous. Oblong, deep black, sometimes with a greenish reflection, shining ; head con- fertly punctulate ; mouth, palpi and basal joints of the antenne rufo-piceous, the latter with the clava frequently testaceous yellow ; transversely indented between the antenne: thorax transverse, notched in front, bisinuate behind, where it is wider than before, with the sides feebly rounded; angles subob- tuse ; above densely punctulate ; a profound impression each side of the middle at base: scutellum subtriangular, impunctured: elytra punctate-striate, the interstices flat, very minutely and obsoletely punctured : beneath black, some- what piceous ; two terminal abdominal segments impunctured : feet dark rufo- piceous. Tenebrionide, Steph. Hyporuiavs, Fabr. 1. H. nitidus. Castaneous; feet rufous. 3 1. long; #1. wide. Pennsyl- vania. Hypophleus nittidus, Melsh. Catal. Cylindric, dark chestnut-red, shining ; head deeply punctulate, bitransversely impressed ; antennz color of the thorax, with the tip and mouth rufous: thorax May, 1846.] 63 convex, oblong-quadrate, slightly narrowed posteriorly, with the sides almost rectilinear and finely margined ; truncate before and behind ; surface numerously yet not densely punctulate ; posterior edge depressed ; scutellum transverse, coarsely punctured: elytra cylindric, with the sides parallel ; somewhat obso- letely punctulate, punctures placed in series: feet lighter than the body beneath. 2. H. parallelus. Ferruginous-red, shining ; feet paler. 131. long. Penn- sylvania. Parallel moderately convex, rusty-red, shining, very minutely punctured and wrinkled; head bi-transversely impressed, the anterior impression is profound, and between the antenne and the eyes, the posterior one is slight and between the eyes, which are black ; antennz color of the head or slightly paler ; thorax quadrate, truncate behind, slightly bisinuate in front, with the sides rectilinear and almost parallel; hind angles rounded, anterior ones promi- nent, acute; margined: scutellum transverse, elytra obscurely punctulate with the punctures ranged in regular and approximate series: feet rufo-testaceous. 3. H. thoracicus. Rufous; elytra black. 141. long. Pennsylvania. Hypophleus thoracicus, Melsh. Catal. Rufous, shining: head obscurely rugose-punctulate, with a transverse impressed line between the antenne; an obsolete impression between the eyes ; mouth and antennz, testaceous-yellow: thorax subquadrate, posteriorly slightly narrowed, with the sides almost rectilinear; anterior and posterior edges truncate, with the angles subobtuse; surface finely, profoundly and distantly punctured ; a small shallow longitudinal impression on the middle of each of the lateral margins: scutellum, black, transverse: elytra hardly more than twice as long as the thorax, black, with the suture narrowly and obsoletely rufous ; cylindric; very minutely and distantly punctured, punctures searcely ranged in series, and at apex obsolete ; abdomen dusky, tinged with rufous: feet and pectus rufous. 4. H.? niger. Black; feet castaneous; elytra punctate-striate. 43-5 1, long; 1-1} 1. wide. Pennsylvania. Hypophleus castaneus, Melsh. Catal. Elongate, cylindric, rather deep black, glossy : head subtriangular, flattened and impressed in the middle, distinctly, deeply and distantly punctured;. mandibles robust, prominent, and with a strong tooth at tip; eyes orbiculate, plane, antenne piceous, hardly longer than the head, with the clava three jointed, compressed, serrate on one side, basal joint and palpi dark rufo-piceous, the latter filiform ; thorax longer than wide, wider at apex than at base, with sides almost straight and finely margined ; basal middle almost truncate, with the basal lateral third slightly obliquely truncate ; apex slightly tri-emarginate ; angles subacute ; surface punctured as the head; scutellum large, sparsely punctured and rounded at apex: elytra remote from the thorax, as wide as the base of thorax, with the sides parallel to near the apex; deeply striate, with edges of the strie crenate, the interstics rather convex, each with a row of minute, oblong, distant punctures: beneath blackish, or dark-chestnut ; the femora chestnut-red; the tibiz and tarsi blackish ; the latter pentamerous ; the former compressed, and dilated towards the tip, and spinous on the outer edge. 5. H.? nigellus. Dark reddish-brown; femora chestnut-red. 31. long; 41. wide. Pennsylvania. 64 [May, 1846. Hypophlaus nigellus, Melsh. MS. Form entirely of the preceding, blackish, strongly tinged with reddish-brown : head not longitudinally indented in the middle, formed and punctured as in the preceding : eyes, palpi and antenn# as in the preceding: outlines of the thorax as in the preceding, with the punctures much more dense: scutellum and elytra formed and sculptured as in the preceding; beneath and feet entirely as in the preceding. 6. H.? teres. Castaneous. 21, long; 41. wide. Pennsylvania. Hypophlaus teres, Melsh. MS. Form of the two preceding species, chestnut-red: head formed as in the preceding, and similarly punctured, with an obsolete impressed line between the eyes, which are as in the preceding ; mandibles formed as in the preceding, piceous ; antennz and palpirufous; outlines of the thorax as in the preceding, the punctuation as in that of niger: elytra cylindric, slightly narrowed from the base towards the apex, not as wide at base as the apex of the thorax; sculptured as in the two preceding: beneath and feet dark rufo-piceous ; form of the tibie and tarsi as in the preceding species. The three last described species cannot with any propriety remain in this genus; they are more fitly placed in the genus TZrogosita. Utoma, Megerle. 1. U. impressa. Castaneous; head and thorax profoundly impressed. 5 1. long; 2]. wide. Pennsylvania. Tenebrio impressus, Melsh. Catal. Subparallel, chestnut-brown, glossy: head much and strongly punctured, flattened, with a profound lunate impression before, behind which is a narrow transverse indented line, joined to the former by a short medial indentation ; antenne dark rufo-piceous, clothed with yellowish pile; palpi testaceous : thorax transverse, plano-convex, widest in the middle, where it is wider than the base of the elytra, strongly emarginate in front, slightly waved behind, with the sides obtusely rounded, and finely margined; angles subobtuse ; surface minutely and densely punctured, strongly and irregularly impressed on the middle of the anterior margin ; a small obtuse indentation in front of scutel, and frequently an obsolete one on each hind angle; scutel rounded at apex ; elytra moderately convex, with sides almost parallel and straight, very slightly widest in front of the apical curve; crenate-striate, the interstices impunctured ; feet and beneath somewhat darker than above, with the femora lighter and clearer, Distinct from the culinaris, Fabr., but resembles retusa, Fabr., in size, convexity, and impression of the middle of the anterior thoracic margin ; from which, however, it differs in other essential characters. 2. U. picea. Blackish-piceous above; feet castaneous; elytra narrowed at tip. 331. long; 1%). wide. Pennsylvania. Tenebrio piceus, Melsh. Catal. Ovate, blackish, tinged with reddish-brown, piccous: head finely rugose- punctured ; slightly convex and hardly transversely indented between the eyes and antenne, anteriorly obtusely rounded ; mouth and palpi testaceous-yellow ; antenne rather more slenderthan is common, pale brown, with two nasal joints and tip of the terminal one paler: thorax transversly subquadrate, slightly May, 1846.] 65 emarginate in front, feebly bisinuate behind, with the sides slightly rounded ; very slightly widest before the middle; above moderately convex, densely punctulate ; an obtuse impression each side of the middle towards the base, and another obsolete one on each area of the hind angles ; anterior edge rufo-pice- ous: scutellum rufo-piceous: elytra convex, widest in the middle, narrowed to the tip, which is acutely rounded; crenate-striate, the interstices flat and scarce- ly punctulate; the fourth and fifth strie abbreviated and confluent near the apical third: beneath strongly punctured, dark reddish-brown-piceous ; feet dark rufous, glossy. The antennz sometimes testaceous. : Ipuruints, Dej. I. ereus. Black-brassy above ; beneath and feet simply deep black ; femora strongly clavate. 741. long; 221. wide. Pennsylvania. Tenebrio ereus, Melsh. Catal. Black, with a greenish brassy tinge, shining : head opake, hardly convex, densely and finely punctured or granulate, obtusely rounded in front; mouth and palpi piceous ; antennz blackish-piceous ? first joint short, clavate, second shorter, obconic, third longest, subcylindric, the three following ones decreasing in length, obconic, the four penultimate joints transverse, subglobular, terminal joint short ovate, dull ferruginous: thorax transverse quadrate, moderately con- vex, truncate before and bisinuate behind, where it is narrower than before the middle; sides slightly rounded to near the posterior contraction ; posterior angles rectilinear, anterior ones obtusely rounded ; distinctly margined; surface irregularly and sparsely punctured, strongly indented behind towards the hind angles; a small impression in front of the scutellum ; medial line obsolete and punctulate ; anterior edge slightly elevated in the middle: scutellum triangular, impunctured: elytra wider than the thorax, convex, rather more strongly so behind the middle, where it is also somewhat wider than before; shining, finely crenate-striate, the interstices broad, minutely and very obscurely punctured; the fourth, fifth and sixth spaces confluent near the apical third, leaving the two intermediate lines unconnected; tips widely and very obtusely sinuate, conjointly acutely rounded: beneath and feet deep black, glossy, with the fe- mora strongly clavate towards their tips ; anterior tibie simple, curved. This . species may prove to be the Helops americanus of Pal. de Beauvois, Ins. p. 122, pl. 30, fig. 6. The antenne of the present specimen, and the only one in my collection, are entirely coated with a gummy substance, in consequence of which its true color cannot be determined. Buapstinvs, Dej. 1. B. mestus. Black; feet slightly paler. 21. long; 11. wide. Pennsyl- vania. Oblong-suboval, black: head strongly punctate, with a feeble arcuated im- pression between the antenne; clypeus slightly emarginate at apex ; antenne blackish, with the second and fifth joints equal ; third joint longest ; joints of the clava transverse, with the apical one short-ovate; palpi piceous-black : thorax transverse, emarginate in front, bisinuate behind, rather wider at base than at apex, with the sides slightly rounded and finely margined ; angles stb- 10 66 [ May, 1846. acute ; surface profoundly and rather densely punctulate; each side of the middle with an obsolete basal impression : scutellum small, transverse, rounded at tip: elytra punctate-striate, the interstices flat, minutely and distantly pune- tured: beneath glossy; femora tinged with reddish-brown, piceous ; tibiv and tarsi paler, piceous. 2. B. encolus. Black-brassy ; feet as in the preceding. Pennsylvania. Slightly shorter and narrower than the preceding, which it much resembles, but it differs from that species, apart of being somewhat shorter and distinctly narrower, and of its brassy color, in having the thorax shorter and more pro- foundly emarginate in front, and more strongly bisinuate behind ; in the elytra being less profoundly punctate-striate, and the interstices more convex, and less, and more obscurely punctulate. To be continued. The Committee to whom was referred the following paper by Mr. Phillips, read 13th of January last, reported in favor of publication. Description of a New Fresh-water Shell, and Observations on Glandina obtusa, Pfetf. By Joun 8. Paiuuies. Physa princeps. Testa elongata conica, luteo vel griseo cornea, nitida, lineis albis interruptis longitudinalibus picta; anfractibus 5—6-subconvexis; suturis appressis distinctis; apice acuto; apertura elongata ; plica columellari obsoleta. Shell elongated, conic, yellow or grey horn color, highly polished, with white, somewhat interrupted lines of growth fol- lowing the marks of growth; whorls 5—6, slightly convex; su- tures appressed distinct; spire conic; apex acute ; aperture elon- gated, regularly rounded below, acutely angular above, columellar fold obsolete. Length 1=, breadth = , length of aperture % of an inch. See plate I, fig. 11, in No. 1. This beautiful Physa was brought from Yueatan, Central America, by my friend Mr. Norman, the enterprising traveller and author of ‘“‘ Rambles in Yucatan,” Ke. Among other species brought by Mr. Norman from Yucatan, were some specimens of a Glandina, of which I have found no description that would at all apply, except that of G. obtusa, Pfeif., from Nicaragua, (Proceedings of the Lond. Zool. Soc., 1845.) May, 1846.] 67 If this species from Yucatan be the G. obtusa, Dr. Pfeiffer has described a young shell, the dimensions of the Nicaragua shell being, length 93 lines, diameter 5 lines; last whorl rather longer than spire of the Yucatan shell; d. 14 lines; diameter 5} lines ; aperture 54 lines. The character of the surface in G. obtusa is not noticed. The specimens from Yucatan are minutely striated longitudinally,the striz the strongest near the sutures and becoming weaker towards the aperture; these striz are crossed by very minute revolving lines, giving the shell under a good glass a slightly granular aspect. The G. obtusa is described as “ovata utrinque attenuata ;” these adult shells have the two last whorls almost cylindrical. See plate 1, fig. 33, in No. 1. Should it prove to be distinct from the Nicaragua species, I would propose the name of Glandina (Achatina) cylindracea. Testa sub-cylindracea, apice obtusa, solidula, pellucida, pallidissimé carnea, longitudinaliter tenue striata, striis decussatis lineis exilissimis, anfractibus 7, vix convexiusculis ; sutura crenulata, apertura mediocre, spira bre- viore; columella basi contorta, et subito truncata; peristomate simplici; marginibus callo tenuissimo vix junctis ; dextro medio non dilatato. Length 1 = diameter © , length of aperture >. 100 100 Shell subcylindrical, apex obtuse, moderately thick, pellucid, very pale flesh color, finely striated longitudinally, the striz crossed by very minute lines; whorls 7, slightly convex; suture crenulate ; aperture moderate, shorter than the spire; columella curved at the base, and suddenly truncated; outer lip thin ; not dilated in the middle ; inner lip scarcely covered by a slight callus. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. On motion of Prof. Johnson: Resolved, That a copy of Har- lan’s Med. and Phys. Researches be presented to the Hssex Co. (Mass.) Nat. Hist. Society. ae 68 [ JUNE, 1846. Stated Meeting, June 2, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Annales des Mines. 4™° Serie, Tome 7, Livs. 1, 2 and 3 de 1845, and Tome 8, Liv. 4 de 1845. In exchange. Proceedings of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Vol. 1, No.4. From the Society. Proceedings of the Boston Society of Natural History. April, 1846. From the Society. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of - Pennsylvania College. Vol. 2, No. 7. From the Associa- tion. Fifty-ninth Annual Report of the Regents of the University of the State of New York. Albany, 1846. From the Regents. Dr. Elwyn presented a large number of works, chiefly on subjects of Natural Science, originally forming part of the collection of the late Dr. James Mease. A letter was read from Wm. M. Baird, Esq., dated Reading, June Ist, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of elec- tion as a Correspondent. Dr. Leidy read a paper intended for publication, entitled “Anatomy of Spectrum femoratum, Say,” with numerous drawings, representing the different parts and organs of the insect. Referred to Mr. Haldeman, Drs. Hallowell and God- dard. Dr. Morton presented a letter from M. Lamarepicquot, a French naturalist, who has established his residence on the Upper Mississippi, with the view of investigating the habits, &e., of the Mammifere of that region. The letter was ad- dressed to F. Markoe, Jr., Esq., Corresponding Secretary of the National Institute, and by him referred to the Academy through Dr. Morton, with a request to examine into the state- JUNE, 1846. ] 69 ments which it contained. These were in reference to a discov- ery made by the writer and supposed by him to be new, of three distinct excretory passages, a urethral, a vaginal, and an anal, in the female Gopher, (Geomys bursarius?) A number of speci- ments had been examined, and this peculiar conformation found to be constant. Stated Meeting, June 9, 1846. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A large collection of minerals, chiefly from New Hampshire, Presented by Dr. Elwyn. Mr. Hodge, of Philadelphia, deposited in the Hall a perfect Egyptian mummy, enclosed in its original Sarcophagus, from Catacombs of Thebes. Dr. Morton deposited two Indian crania from mounds in the vicinity of Chilicothe, Ohio, presented to him by Dr. Davis and Mr. Squier of that city; and two others from mounds in Bun- combe Co., N. Carolina, from Dr. Hardy, of Ashville in that State. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Notice sur lEurypterus de Podolie, et le Chirotherium de Livonie, par G. Fischer de Waldheim. From Mrs, L. W. Say. A portion of the Plates of Blainville’s Malacology. From the same. Carte Géognostique des districts de Mines de lEtat de Mexico: par Frederick de Gerolt et Charles de Berghes: with a pamphlet explanatory ofthe same. From Baron Gerolt. Dr. Elwyn presented an additional collection of works from the Library of the late Dr. James Mease, including 31 Nos. of the Bulletin de la Societe Geographique: 7 Nos. of ‘Til- 70 [ June, 1846. loch’s London Philosophical Magazine and Journal, Transac- tions of the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec, Vol. 3, Part 2; First Supplement to the Philadelphia Med. and Phys. Journal, by Benj. Smith Barton, M. D., and a num- ber of addresses, memoirs, lectures, Kc., chiefly on subjects of Natural Science. Dr. Morton made some remarks on the position of the ear in the ancient Egyptians. Stated Meeting, June 23, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A collection of organic remains, reptilia, and fresh water shells. Presented by Dr. William Blanding. A collection of Reptilia and fishes from Western Africa. Pre- sented by Dr. Blanding and 8. $8. Haldeman. Specimen, in skin, of Mustela ———., from East Tennessee. Presented by Mr. Haldeman. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Statisque de l’Espagne: par Alex. Moreau de Jonnés. Paris, 1834. Statisque de la Grand-Bretagne et de l’Irlande: par Alex. Moreau de Jonnés. 2 vols. Paris, 1837 and 1838. Recherches statisques sur Vesclavage Colonial et sur les moyens de le supprimer: par Alex. Moreau de Jonnés. Paris, 1842. From the Author. Lexicon Physico-Medicum, or a new Medicinal Dictionary. Auctore J. Quincy. Taken from the British at the storming of Stoney Point, July 16th, 1779.) From Collinson Steven- son, M. D. Geological Survey of Canada; Report of Progress for 1844. Montreal, 1846. From Richard C. Taylor, Esq. JUNE, 1846. ] v1 A letter was read from H. Meigs, Esq., Secretary of the local committee of the Associatién of American Geologists and Naturalists, dated New York, June 5, 1846, transmitting a number of printed circulars of that Association for distribution among the members of the Academy. A letter from M. Alex. Moreau de Jonnés was read, accom- panying his works presented this evening. Mr. Haldeman read a description of Unio abacoides, a new species, which being intended for publication, was referred to a committee consisting of Dr. Hallowell, Mr. Phillips and Mr. Conrad. Mr. Fisher made some remarks on the comparative ra- pidity of growth of plants at different periods of their exist- ence. Dr. Leidy exhibited recent leaves of the common Elm, (Ulmus fulva,) each having on the upper surface several large pyriform excrescences, which were hollow and impervious, and contained multitudes of Aphides in different stages of development, from the larva to the perfect insect. Dr. Morton made some observations on the occasional union or continuation of the spheno-temporal and coronal sutures in the human subject. He finds it frequent in the Negro, occasional in the Hindoo, Egyptian and aboriginal American, but has found no instances of it in the European. He proposes to continue his observations, and to present the precise results at a future meeting of the Society. Dr. Morton also exhibited casts of some remarkable human’ effigies, and other relics taken from Indian mounds in the vicinity of Chilicothe, Ohio, by Dr. Davis and Mr. Squier, of that city. Meeting for Business, June 30, 1846. Vick PRESIDENT WETHERILL in the Chair. The Committee on Dr. Leidy’s paper on the Anatomy of Bradypus tridactylus, reported in favor of publication. ’ 72 [June, 1846. Remarks upon the Anatomy of the Abdominal Viscera of the Sloth, Bradypus tridactylus, Linn. By Josern Lemy, M. D. A living specimen of the three-toed sloth, which was lately bronght to this city from South America, having died a short time since, I have been enabled, through the kindness of Mr. Wood, preparer of specimens in natural history, to procure the greater part of the abdominal viscera and the uterus. Descriptions of the anatomy of this animal have been given by several authors, but unfortunately not without a great deal of discrepancy in the statement of the simplest matters of fact, which I cannot account for in any other way than by suspecting several species to have been indiscriminately described as the same. Such cases of discrepancy are by no means unfrequent in Zootomy, arising, no doubt, in many cases, from the too exclusive attention in the preparation and preservation of the exterior, to the careless examination, or even total neglect of the interior. : Regretting exceedingly that I have not been able to extend my observations to the whole anatomy of the animal, I must be content to give a few cursory remarks upon the material obtained, which I proceed to do at once. The stomach, according to Cuvier, in his Regne Animal, Tome I. p. 217, ‘*is divided into four sacks analogous enough to the four stomachs of the ruminantia, but without folds or other salient parts in the interior.*’ Dr. Harlan,* in his account of the anatomy of this animal, writes, ‘‘ the stomach consists of a large paunch, in no way furnished with compartments like that of the ruminantia, as is asserted by Buffon, who also errs in attributing ruminating faculties to the animal; but this organ presents a structure differing from that of any other animal with which we are familiar, being furnished with numerous, long, conical cul-de-sacs.”’ The specimen of the stomach which I have investigated agrees with the account, so far as it goes, of Cuvier. Taken as a whole, this organ is irregular in shape, large, capacious, and sacculated. It is evidently divided into four compartments, or distinct portions, by contractions, partitions, and difference of structure. The first compartment is the largest and corresponds to the paunch ofthe ruminantia; it is separated from the second compartment by a well marked and prominent ridge, is lined by a soft mucous membrane, having in it nu- merous follicles of a large size, is, comparatively with the other portions, thin in its parietes, and has projecting upwards from it, possessing the same structure, a ‘‘long, conical cul-de-sac,’’ the only one found in connection with the stomach in this specimen. The second and third compartments are next in size, and are separated from each other by a partition of the same structure projecting from each side of the cavity of the organ. The wsophagus opens into the second compartment, but as it was cut off close to the stomach Iam unable to say anything about it. The lining mucous membrane of these two latter com- partments presents a rigid, rqugh and thick epithelia, surface resembling in *Observations on the Anatomy of the Sloth, Bradypus tridactylus, Linn. Medical and Physical Researches, p. 544. Philadelphia, 1839. JuNE, 1846.] 73 structure the cuticular lining of the gizzard of birds. A deep fold of the lining and intermediate or muscular membrane passes from the left of the opening of the esophagus into the second compartment, transversely along the side of the third compartment into the fourth, being somewhat analogous to the arrange- ment in the ruminantia for conducting the ruminated food into the fourth stomach. The fourth compartment is narrow and intestiniform; the muscu- lar tunic at its inferior half obtains a sudden increase, being extremely thick and strong. The internal surface at the commencement presents a patch of soft mucous membrane extending about two-thirds round the circumference of the cavity, and about an inch in width, and is surrounded by an abrupt, thick- ened, and papillated ridge of the epithelial structure, giving it somewhat the ap- pearance of an excavated ulcer. The remaining part of the surface is formed of the same epithelial structure as in the second and third compartments, but is thicker, and is thrown into numerous transverse and longitudinal folds, and has at its commencement several large and deep follicles, with mouths from one to two lines in diameter. The pylorus is small, and presents no valvular arrange- ment, but is capable of being perfectly closed by the agency of the very thick muscular tunic and the approach of the internal longitudinal folds. The duodenum comes off from the stomach by a very abrupt thinning in structure. Its lining mucous membrane is soft and villous, but has no valyule conniventes. The openings of the hepatic and pancreatic ducts into it are about one inch apart. The other part of the small intestine is, comparatively, rather short, and appears to be pretty uniform in diameter, although it has a gradual increase downwards, being the reverse in this point in man and some other animals. The muscular coat of the small intestine is rather thin; the mucous coat pre- sents a structure like that of the duodenum. The distinction between the small intestine and colon is pretty well marked | but the latter does not extend beyond the former to a sufficient degree to form acecum. The commencement of the colon is about ten lines in diameter, but decreases as it passes forwards or ascends, until at its anterior part, the diameter is less than that of the small intestine; it gradually increases again as it de- scends, until it emerges in the extremely dilated rectum. It is notat all saccu- lated, which appears to have been otherwise the case in Dr. Harlan’s specimen.. The liver is formed of large acini, is very little lobulated, and has no gall bladder. The pancreas and spleen present nothing of interest. The kidnies are small, and present internally but asingle papilla renalis pro- jecting into the pelvis of these organs. The uterus in this individual is in a pregnant condition, being probably about four or six weeks advanced. Its size in this condition is a little more than one half that of the unimpregnated adult human uterus, and is pyriform in shape. The ovaries are about the size of a coffee-grain, and at one extremi- ty are in contact with the uterus. The Fallopian tubes are correspondingly short. In structure the uterus is fibro-muscular; the cavity of the neck is lined by a mucous membrane thrown into numerous longitudinal folds. The cavity of the body contains a single embryo. The two portions of the mem- brana decidua, the reflexa and vera, are combined, forming a thickness of five 11 74 (June, 1846. or six lines, and possesses a decided vascularity. The chorion is connected to the decidua by its shaggy surface, but an amnion is not distinguishable, being probably not yet formed. Passing from the sides of the cavity of the chorion, is a delicate cellular tissue, filled with a transparent serous fluid, the corpus reticulare, in which the embryo is suspended by the duct of the allantois and vessels to the upper part of the chorion, at the point where the future placenta is formed. The embryo, in its curved position, measures six lines in length, and exhibits the cerebrum, cere- bellum, chorda dorsalis, the rudimentary vertebra, ribs, and extremities, and the heart, the liver, the stomach and urinary bladder. Conceiving the pregnant uterus at this stage to be of more than ordinary interest, I present the following figures of the same as it appeared on dissection. Fig. 1. Fig. 1, Represents the uterus laid open, the size of nature, exhibiting: 1, The decidua; 2, The chorion ; 3, The corpus reticulare; 4, The embryo. Fig. 2. 6 Fig. 2, Represents the embryo, twice the size of nature. 7 1, The cerebrum; 2, The cerebullum; 3, The chorda dorsalis; ‘ “>y, 41 The rudimentary vertebre ; 5, The ribs; 6, The extremi- = ties; 7. The heart; 8, The liver; 9, The stomach; 10, The Sy “2 urinary bladder. JunzE, 1846. ] 75 The Committee on the following description of a new species of Unio, by Mr. Haldeman, read at last meeting, reported in favor of ‘publication. Description of Unio abacoides, a new species. By S. 8S. HanpEeman. Shell subovate, obtusely and regularly rounded posteriorly, disks approximate, chestnut brown and pale green, with green radiating in- terrupted capillary lines, and a tendency to form a submedial nodulous ridge: primary teeth robust, their inner margin nearly at right angles with the short lamellar teeth: pallial and muscular impressions well marked: nacre white, roseate posteriorly. Length 2%, height 2, diameter 14 inches. Allied to U. dromas, Zea, and U. intermedius, Conrad, but is pro- portionally longer than either. In its outline and small transverse diameter it resembles U. abacus. I am indebted for this interesting shell to the liberality of Dr. Foreman, who received it from Hastern Tennessee. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The Society then unanimously conferred a Life-Membership on Richard C. Taylor, Esq., of this city. Dr. Morton offered the following : Whereas, Dr. Thomas B. Wilson has purchased the magni- ficent collection of Birds called the Rivoli collection, now in Paris, embracing 10,000 specimens, mounted and named, and Dr. Wilson having expressed a wish that they should be arranged in the Hall of the Academy, and his fellow members warmly and cordially seconding his proposition, it is hereby Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to devise such additions to the present building as may be necessary for this purpose, and to report a plan of the same to the Academy without delay. The preamble and resolution were unanimously adopted, and the Committee appointed to consist of Dr. Morton, Mr. Vaux, Dr. Bridges, Mr. Pearsall and Dr. Wilson. eit re aioe lege” abe ‘ al ~ Hectic in aetna , ; ; Pe | haere phy Tih: Sanat ei Bir © ina ir Set pas oe , : ” ‘ 4 y if ® 7 os ; A r | ‘ . - - sah gh Pe nee ae ad mere Om pet pai iy if He rat Tem ei ‘ sh i = yo 5 ; ond Ge ae © eyo ey lings be 4 2 m reais ' Pinel ‘a Pe any a caescn rv, (ha) » = , tis Se ee yoy te hale a i pa ev oe Sh : oa + A ene 2 RN 7 S0Dang arlhd a ec rs ms : pone } x njaxicgia ss ‘aes mieste : tie ee i. Mt [a tetas % ae Sind ne meal | ns Dink «oa ea: onan," set 7 ee ! " r « ' at i 4 | f = x p fet ww A Arey ee a te we Oy Se ee 0 a aad : rau paused cear'e pou Se i: Jon iia eae ores MMH ASH AeW VE? Yih T In ho yeaa’ Via Ves) i \ 7 oA 4 — é j o iby ‘ ; ~ : elt SU a) eta (0 “fe ne 1m wily t . ’ Ca : é ° ~ SOR TY i } E sail ie 7 e = a PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF. PALL L AsD i G. P:H A. Vou. 3. JULY AND AUG., 1846. No. 4. Stateed Meeting, July T, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. The chairman announced that the extensive and valuable collection of Fossil organic remains, deposited in the Academy by Richard C. Taylor, Esq., had been purchased by Mr. J. Price Wetherill and Dr. Thomas B. Wilson, and is now pre- sented by them to the Society. A full notice of this collection will be found at page 261, Vol. 2, of the Proceedings. Mr. J. Price Wetherill presented the entire collection of or- ganic remains, hitherto, deposited by him in the Academy, and embracing two distinct series, as follows : 1. The Steznhaur Collection, which was made in England nearly forty years ago by the late Rev. Henry Steinhaur. It is particularly rich in fossil plants from the coal basin of York- shire, and in Testacea and Zoophytes from the lias, oolitic, and cretaceous formations of various parts of Great Britain. 2. The Clifford Collection, which was made by the late in- defatigable Mr. Clifford of Cincinnati, and purchased from hig ? 78 [Juny, 1846. heirs by Mr. Wetherill. It contains an extensive and beautiful series of fossil remains of the Carboniferous deposits of the Val- ley of the Mississippi ; together with the skeleton of the Mega- lonyx laqueatus of Dr. Harlan, and numerous bones and teeth of the Mastodon, Elephant, &c. The whole number of specimens is nearly 3000; which, added to those previously in the Society’s possession, and the beautiful collection of Mr. Taylor, now the property of the Academy, constitute an extensive and most instructive geo- logical cabinet. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Some observations on the Ethnography and Archeology of the American Aborigines. Ry Samuel George Morton, M. D. New Haven, 1846. From the Author. Abhandlungen der Mathem: Physikalischen classe der Keeniglich : bayerischen Akademie der Wissenschaften. 4to. Munchen, 1845. Bulletin der Koenig]: Akademie der Wis- senschaften, (from September 17, 1844, to January 7, 1846.) Almanack do. do. From the Academy. Andentungen zur characteristic der organischen libens nach seinem auftreten in den verschiedenen erd periodeden. Fes- trede gelesen in der offertlichen sitzung der Kgl: bayer: Akad: der Wissensch: zu Munchen zer feier ihres sich- sund achdzigsten stiftungages au 28 Marz, 1845. Von Dr. A. Wagner. From the Anthor. American Journal of Science and Arts, second series, Vol. 1. No. 4. July, 1846. From the Editors. Literary record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College, Vol. 2. No. 9. From the Associa- tion. A letter was read from William Gourlie, Jr., Esq., dated Glasgow, June 2, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a correspondent. A communication from Mr. Richard C. Taylor, dated July 3d, 1846, returning thanks to the Society for the Life-mem- bership conferred on him at last meeting. Jury, 1846.] | 79 The Committee appointed at last meeting, to devise such additions to the present building as may be necessary for accommodating the splendid collection of mounted birds, re- cently purchased in Paris by Dr. T. B. Wilson, reported a plan, which was adopted ; and on motion of Prof. Johnson it was Resolved, That the Committee be continued, and that they be authorised and instructed to carry into effect said plan, as submitted by them this evening. On motion of Dr. Morton, Resolved, That the thanks of this Society be presented to John Price Wetherill, Esq., for the extensive and valuable collection of British and American Fossils presented by him this evening; a collection which is admirably adapted to convey instruction in the most pleasing departments of Geological Science, and which is accepted by his fellow members as one of many proofs of his regard for the interests of this Institution. Stated Meeting, July 14, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT MortTON in the Chair. A letter was read from Jacob Tremper, Esq., dated Dresden, N. Y. July 6, 1846, contaming some general meteorological observations made by himself in his vicinity ; and requesting the transmission to him of Vols. 1 and 2 of the Proceedings. The chairman read an extract of a letter from Mr. Alexan- der Maclure, dated, New Harmony, Ind., July 6, 1846, stat- ing his intention to transfer to the Academy all his right, title, and interest in certain Virginia lands. Prof. Johnson read some extracts from a printed copy of a bill now before Congress, from the Library Committee, pro- viding for the publication of an additional number of copies of the Scientific reports of the late South Sea Exploring Expe- dition. Prof. Johnson made some remarks in relation to the bill, 80 [July, 1846. and congratulated the Society, on the prospect of a copy being soon obtained for its Library. Meeting for Business, July 8, 1846. Vicr Prestipent Morton in the Chair. The Committee on Dr. Leidy’s paper on the Anatomy of Spectrum femoratum, Say, reported in favor of publication. On the Anatomy of Spectrum femoratum, Say. By Joseru Leipy, M. D. Spectrum femoratum is one of those singular insects which from their appearance, in localities where they are found, are commonly known under the name of “ Walking Sticks.”’ This species was first described by the distinguished naturalist, formerly in connection with our Society, Thomas Say, and a description and drawing of it will be found in the third volume of his American Entomology. Indi- vidual specimens have been found in most parts of the United States, but I have not learned of any place where itis abundant, excepting in the State of Iowa, from whence I obtained my specimens, through Dr. B. J. Kern, who informs me they are found in considerable numbers, frequenting high bluffs or dry exposed situations, creeping on the ground or on decaying timber. It belongs to the order Orthoptera, family Mantide. The male insect measures 2 inches 9 lines in iength, and one line in breadth ; the female, 3 inches, 7 lines in length, and 2 lines in breadth at the thorax, and 3} lines at the abdomen. The head is oval; the eyes are somewhat protuberant. It has no sim- pleeyes. The antenna, in the male, are about 2 inches in length; in the female, 14 inches; setaceous, and numerously jointed, the joints (Fig. 1.) being long, oval and hirsute. The thorax hasthree segments, the two posterior of which form full one third the length of the whole body. The smallest rudiment of wings does not exist. The anterior and posterior pair of legs, in the male, are two inches in length, the intermediate pair one and one-half inches; in the female they are all about half an inch shorter. They are narrow, and much separated in the walking position. The thighs of the central pair oflegs in the male are comparatively thick and the thighs of the central and posterior pairs, have at their distal extremity an acute projecting spine, long in the male, short in the female. The tarsus (Fig. 2.) is five jointed, each joint being furnished with stiff hairs and at the under part of the distal extremity, a pair of hard, smooth, shining black tuber- JULY, 1846.] 81 cles. The last joint is armed with two hooked phalanges having placed be- neath them a round and thick soft pad. The abdomen has nine segments. The last abdominal segment, in both sexes, is furnished with two short caudal appendages. The external part of the sexual apparatus is articulated with the ventral plate of the seventh abdominal segment. Of the digestive apparatus. The oral organs are mandibulate or masticatory. The labium (Fig.3,) is in four pieces,two of which are external and one longer than the internal. They are somewhat claviculate in shape,have each a black spot at the extremity and articulate with the mentum, properly a fifth piece to the labium. The labial palpi (Fig. 3, a,) articulate with the mentum, are hirsute, and three-jointed, two of the joints being oval and the third lanceo- late in shape. The tongue, (Fig. 4,) which is internal as regards the mouth and is generally considered to belong to the labium, is flat from side to side, ot acuryed triangular form, corneous in structure, and ciliate upon its upper edge. The maxillex (Fig. 5,) are tridentate and slightly hairy. The maxillay palpi (Fig. 5, a.) are five-jointed and hirsute; the first two joints are subrotund, the next two conical, and the last one lanceolate in form. The mandibule (Fig. 6,) are very hard, short, and strong, and present a triangular molar surface, with two of the sides raised into trenchant, sharp edges, resembling very much a gouge, and well adapted for cutting the harder vegetable sub- stances. The labrum (Fig. 7,) is slightly convex and emarginated. The intes- tinal canal (Fig. 8,) extends in a straight line, the length of the body, from the mouth te the anus, and is broad and capacious throughout. The pharynx is almost null. The esophagus, at first narrow, after a few lines of its course almost abruptly dilates into a tube of large calibre, extending nearly one half the length of the whole canal, and may be considered in the light of acom- bined crop and esophagus, as it appears to be a receptacle of the food, in which the latter undergoes some change preparatory to being received into the stomach, and I will, hence, call it the esophageal crop. (Fig. 8, a.) Itsin- ferior part (Fig. 9,) becomes contracted in shape like the neck of a Florence flask, and projects into the cavity of the stomach. The orifice’opening into the stomach is narrow, and has a valvye-like appendage connected to its lip. The exterior or muscular tunic of the cesophageal crop is thick and strong; its transverse fibres are well marked. The epithelium is comparatively thick and tightly adherent to its basement membrane. This portion of the alimentary canal I found to be full of coarse particles of decaying wood, which I infer to be the food of the animal. The stomach (Fig. 8, b.) is about half an inch in length, and of very little greater breadth than the preceding receptacle. Its parietes are compara- tively thin, and present internally numerous transverse ruge which pass from a longitudinal ruga in front to a corresponding one behind. The muscular investment is very thin; the epithelial surface is soft and readily separable from the basement membrane, which latter makes up the greater part of the thickness of the stomach. The duodenum (Fig. 8, c.) is only distinguishable from the stomach by a narrowing of its capacity and the disappearance of the ruge. It presents the same structure as the stomach. Its length is about three times that o 82 JuLy, 1846. the latter, and it receives near its middle, where it undergoes a narrow contraction, the biliary vessels. The contained mass of the stomach and duodenum has a pultaceous consistence. The ilium (Fig. 8, e.) is not more than four lines in length, is exceedingly contracted, and opens directly into the rectum. The rectum (Tig. 8, f.) is about the same length as the ilium, is mode- rately capacious, and has thick musculo-epithelial parietes. It presents internally several columns or longitudinal folds, which give a columnar appearance to the excrement of the animal. The anus opens at the extre- mity of the last abdominal segment between the caudal appendages. The salivary glands (Fig. 8, g.) two in number, are placed laterally upon the anterior part of the cesophageal crop. In structure they are of the highest order, being granulated or conglomerate, one of the rarest forms in the economy of insect life. Their ducts open into the mouth. The biliary vessels (Fig. 8, h. Fig. 11,) are numerous, moderately long, and form a double attachment to the duodenum. They are connected at their commencement to the external tunic of the duodenum just above the middle, in three rows, (Fig. 10,) one below the other, from whence they pass down- wards nearly to the termination of the duodenum, then doubling upon them- selves, running forwards, they finally form the connection of entry about the middle of the duodenum, at the contraction before mentioned, (Fig. 11.) When highly magnified, they present a structure of basement membrane filled interiorly with organic nuclei and cells, (Fig. 12.) The Generative apparatus.—In the female: The ovaries (Fig. 8, i.) two in number, are placed within the abdomen on each side of the duodenum, and are about 18 lines in length. Each ovary consists of numerous ovigerous tubes (Fig. 13, a.) 4 or 5 lines inlength, which commence very narrow, gra- dually dilate, and join a common tube, the oviduct. The ovigerous tube contain ova in various stages of development, from a mere point at their commencement to the fully formed ovum at their termination. The perfected ova measure 14 lines in length, are oval and smooth. The oviducts (Fig. 8, j, Fig. 13, b.) are narrower and pass backwards and join each other be- neath the ileum to form a common canal, the vagina, The vagina (Fig. 13, c.) is 24 lines long, its external orifice is placed between an oval ventral plate (Fig. 13, d. Fig. 14, a.) articulating with the extremity of the ventral plate of the sixth abdominal segment, and an upper convex plate provided with four curved and pointed forceps, (Fig. 13, e.) articulating with the seventh abdominal segment, which probably acts the part of an ovipositor. In the male, the genitalia are very simple. The testes (Fig. 15, a.) consist of a pair of comparatively thick and short tubes, forming each a single con- yolution, and joining each other beneath the ilium to form the ductus ejacu- latorious (Fig. 15, b.) which proceeds to the penis. The penis (Fig. 15,c.) is external to the body, and is placed below the eighth abdominal segment, but articulates with the seventh. It is short, semi-ovalin form, with a short pointed process behind, is enveloped by chitinous membrane, and is received in a calx (Fig. 15, d.) formed of chitine, which articulates with a small con- vex segment attached to the ventral plate of the seventh abdominal segment. Juty, 1846. 83 The Nervous system.—The cerebrum (Fig. 17, a.) placed above the eso- phagus, in form is like two pyriform bodies placed side by side, with the apices anterior and divergent to the base of the antenne. From the most anterior part of each lateral mass passes off the antennal nerve, (Fig. 17, b.) and from the external side, just posterior to the latter, the optic nerve, (Fig. 17, c.) From the base of the optic nerve and the cerebrum immediately pos- terior proceed two small branches, which unite to form a single cord, the analogue of the sympathetic nerve (Fig. 17, d.) which passes backwards along the side of the cesophageal crop, to which, after dividing into two principal branches, it is ultimately distributed by numerous minute twigs. Antero-in- feriorly the cerebrum sends off two branches which pass forwards, unite, and form the frontal ganglion (Fig. 17, e.) from which proceeds backwards, be- neath the cerebrum, a single cord running along the upper surface of the wso- phageal crop nearly to itstermination. These two latter branches,the frontal ganglion, and the single resulting cord, constitutes the nervus recurrens, or nervus vagus, (Fig. 17, f.) The nervus vagus, after passing the cerebrum, forms a small swelling, which gives off minute ramuscles to the salivary glands and neighboring part of the esophageal crop. It also forms a gang- lion (Fig. 17, g.) of moderate size upon the lower part of the cesophageal crop, from which proceed six principal nerves to be distributed to the ceso- phageal crop and stomach. The ventral cord consists of a chain of eleven ganglia, connected in their length by a double commissure. The first of this chain, the cerebellum, (Fig. 17, i.) is a cordiform gang- lion situated beneath the commencement of the cesophagus, and connected to the cerebrum by its appropriate commissures, gives off the mandibulary, maxillary, and labial nerves. The three following ganglia are the thoracic ganglia, (Fig. 18, a.) the first of which is simple, the two others double. These give off nerves both to the extremities and to the neighboring parts. The seven remaining ganglia are the abdominal. (Fig. 18, b.) They are all single and give off numerous minute ramuscles in their vicinity. Explanations of the figures. Fig. 1. Partofone of the antenne of spectrum femoratum, highly magnified. Fig. 2. Tarsus of do., magnified. Fig. 3. The labium, magnified; a, the labial palpi. Fig. 4. The tongue, magnified. Fig. 5. The right maxilla and palpus, (a,) magnified. Fig. 6. The right mandibula, magnified. Fig. 7. The labrum, magnified. Fig. 8. The intestinal canal, &c., of the female, the size of nature ; a, ceso- phageal crop; b, stomach; c, duodenum; e, ileum, f, rectum; g, salivary glands; h, biliary vessels; i, ovaries; j, oviducts; k, an ovum in its pas- sage down the oviduct; 1, inferior ganglion of the nervus vagus. Fig. 9. The inferior portion of the esophageal crop and stomach laid open. Fig. 10. Shows the connection of the commencement of the biliary vessels with the duodenum. Fig. 11. Biliary vessels and place of opening into the duodenum. Fig. 12. Portion of a biliary tube, highly magnified. 84 JuLy, 1846. Fig. 13. Lower part of the female generative apparatus; a, an ovigerous tube containing ova; b, lower part of the oviducts; c, vagina; d, oval ventral plate; e, upper plate. Fig. 14. The posterior four segments of the abdomen of the female; a, oval ventral plate ; b, upper plate. Fig. 15. Genitalia of the male, magnified; a, testus; b, ductus ejacula- torius; c, penis; d, calyx. Fig. 16. The posterior five segments of the abdomen of the male. Fig. 17. Magnified view of the cerebrum and cerebellum ; a, cerebrum; b, antennal nerve ; c, optic nerve; d, sympathetic nerve ; e, frontal ganglion ; f, nervus vagus; g, ganglion at the termination of the nervus vagus; i, cere- bellum. Fig. 18. Magnified; a, thoracic ganglia of the ventral cord ; b, abdominal ganglia. The Committee on Dr. Hallowell’s paper on the Anatomy of Harpyia destructor, reported in favor of publication. On the Anatomy of Harpyia destructor, Cuv., or Harpy Eagle of South America. By Epwarp Hatiowe tt, M. D. The animal from which the following description was taken, died in one of the menageries of Philadelphia of a tuberculous affection of the lungs. It is remarkable for the great development of the lower extremities, which are sufficiently powerful to enable it to carry off a goat with facility. Itis even stated that it has the power to carry off the dead body of a man, but such accounts are evidently fabulous. It is said to be solitary and to feed upon sloths and other small quadrupeds. Vertebre. There are 13 cervical vertebra. The bodies of the four first are quite short; the seventh measures six and a half lines in depth upon its ante- rior face; the transverse processes attached to the anterior extremities of these vertebre are well characterized, the longest being 4 lines in length; a small tubercle exists at the base, at the inner margin of the process in the sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth. Infericr spinous processes are observed in the first, second, fourth and fifth,and from the eleventh to the last; the superior spinous processes are weil marked in the second, third, fourth and fifth, and in the tenth, eleventh twelfth and thirteenth; the superior spinous process of the thirteenth is square, and resembles that of the first dorsal, except that its breadth is not so great. There are inferior spinous processes to the five first dorsal; and there is a rudiment of one attached to the sixth; those attached to the third, fourth and fifth are the longest; the middle one of these three is broader at its base than either of the others; the inferior spinous processes of the caudal vertebre are five in number; a complete foramen for the transmission of an artery exists in each of the four pos- terior; in the first it is not observed; the bony processes passing from one transverse process to another are well defined, but there is no Cbnatomy of Spectrum Homoratum. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. pee ly ee > Toa a oy. ete > Reed a 4 ruil thas ahaa Qe ww Meat an Bt ut... . hn Oss ten? @ vob a wey, Th : pedal bapa wivenircsihip winstae vee >, Ca * as al * a t. = + 4 ie we ass si. aa = ane. beset © tees ol ee es by = q —) a A ae ® ee elias ‘ Z said C T77, CG b natony of Tprectium Lemoratum. Fig. 13. Fig. 14, Rig. 15. ; - pe AES —' 3 Juty, 1846.] 85 anchylosis; there are no spines or processes attached to the anterior face of the lumbo-sacral bone; a slight ridge exists near its posterior extremity; the fourth and fifth transverse processes of the caudal vertebre are more developed than either of the others ; transverse processes are observed in all but the two last; the dorsal spinous process of the penultimate vertebra is well characterized ; none of the caudal vertebre are truly anchylosed ; there are eight caudal vertebre and nine dorsal ; the vertebre present nu- numerous foramina for the transmission of air ; the spinous processes of the dorsal vertebrz are all separated ; none of their bodies are truly anchylosed. The keel of the sternum is well developed ; there are no notches in the pos- terior border; near its extremity are two large foramina, eleven lines in length, which extend to within two and a half lines of the posterior margin ; the coracoid bones are remarkably strong and powerful, being greatly ex- parded at their base ; the furcula is separated from the sternum a distance of nearly half aninch. The scapula and clavicles present nothing remarkable in their conformation ; thereare eight ribs, two of which appear to be want- ing, the pits for their reception being alone observed ; the six which exist are attached to the sterno-costal bones; there are caudal appendages to the second, third, fourth and fifth; that of the second meets the anterior margin of the fourth about its middle; none of the ribs are anchylosed with the pelvis. Cranium. The foramen magnum is nearly horizontal ; two well marked de- pressions exist upon the posterior and inferior aspect of the occipital bone ; between them is a small ridge four lines in length; it is very narrow, pre- senting a marked contrast in this respect with the ridge in the same part in the grey vulture of Africa which measures half an inch in breadth ; the supraorbitar and lachrymal bones are of nearly equal length; the former is rounded at its posterior extremity where it presents a broad expansion, the corresponding part of this bone in the grey African vulture terminates in a point; that part of the skull immediately above these depressions is much flattened ; the ossa communicantia are seven lines in length and of moderate thickness. The opening for the nostrils is four lines in breadth ; the posterior extremity of the lower jaw does not project beyond the up- per; the cranium presents generally a smooth surface exteriorly. Anterior Extremities. The humerous is well developed. On its internal aspect is a well marked ridge, presenting a broad and somewhat rough surface, inclining backwards, beneath which is the hole for the transmis- sion of air; the humerus immediately below this is compressed laterally, having a triangular form ; it is concave near its inferior extremity pos- teriorly, and convex in front; the middle of the bone is smooth ard rounded ; the inferior articulating surface presents two oblong convexities for articulation with the bones of the forearm, with a narrow fossa be- tween them; there is but one carpal bone in the subject under examination, but there is clearly a smooth articulating surface for another ; the radius is a long and slender bone, having about one half the diameter of the ulna; there are two small ridges upon its distal extremity; the ulna has a well marked ole- cranon process; the metacarpal bone corresponding with the radius has three ? 86 i[Jury, 1846. times the breadth of the bone opposite, at its middle; there are two pha- langes to the radial finger; the ulnar phalanx is a slender styliform ap- pendage pointed inferiorly. The pelvis is narrow in front, broad posteriorly ; it presents a small pro- cess on each side three lines behind the last rib , that portion of the pelvis comprised between this process and the cotoloid cavity is much compressd ; the ossa pubis look backwards as in most birds; the cotyloid cavity is incomplete posteriorly. Posterior extremities. There is no proper neck to the femur; the large trochanter presents a well marked rough process posteriorly ; there is no small trochanter ; on the lower side of the trochanter at its inferior extremity upon the anterior face of the bone, is a foramen three lines in length and two in breadth, for the admission of air; the outer condyle of the femur is large ; the groove upon inferior part is well marked; there is a rough eminence upon its external face, with a depression in front of it; the upper surface of the tibia is flat for the most part; the anterior margin projects considerably be- yond the anterior face of the bone, but there is no spine extending upwards as in some birds ; the superior extremity of the tibia is remarkable for the deep pit which it presents upon its posterior face ; it measures twelve lines in length ; there are two holes at its distal extremity situated posteriorly, with an oblique ridge between them; it is triangular in form above, rounded in the middle, and flattened inferiorly; a marked depression ex- ists upon the anterior face of it, at its inferior extremity. The foramen for the transmission of the interosseous artery is placed two and a quarter inches from the head of the tibia, about a line from its junction with the fi- bula ; the fibula is a slender bone anchylosed with the tibia in the greater part of its extent, as in other birds. The tarso metatarsal is the most remark- able bone in the body ; it is a large and powerful bone, concave posteriorly, presenting nnmerous very well marked depressions and elevatedridges upon its anterior aspect ; there is a foramen for the transmission of air near its outer margin, five lines from its proximal extremity; there is also another two lines in breadth, and two in extent, near its inner margin, within two and a half lines of the superior margin of the outer groove, at the extremity of the bone; the outer aspect of the bone is flat in nearly its whole extent, presenting a smooth surface ; it measures seven lines in an antero-posterior direction at its middle ; its inner margin forms a sharp edge extending the whole length of the bone as far as its junction with the accessory bone, for the articulation with the first phalanx of the powerful back toe; the articular eminences at the extremity of the bone are separated from each other by intervals each about two lines in breadth ; the middle eminence is the largest ; the remain- ing two are of nearly equal size; the articulation of the accessory bone is placed seven lines and a half above the level of the anterior toes ; the access- ory bone is large and triangular in shape, presenting a smooth surface for its articulation with the first phalanx of the hind toe ; its posterior margin mea- sures thirteen lines in length; it presents a sharp edge continuous with that of the inner margin of the tarso metatarsal bone for seven lines © & JULY, 1846.] 87 of its extent, the remaining portion being expanded laterally, and pre- senting a somewhat oval and rough surface. The toes are strongly devel- oped ; the back toe and inner toe are the most powerful ; the first phalanx of the inner toe is remarkable for its shortness ; it is somewhat quadrangu- lar in shape, and presents a deep groove upon its posterior extremity, for articulation with the tarso-metatarsal bone. Measurements. Feet. Inches. Lines. Height, measured from extremity of beak to extremity of middle toe, . - 5 - i 12 0 Bi-parietal diameter of fiend : : 2 5 Vertical, do. do. : - 1 8 Depth of upper mandible at oe 1 cc lower ¢ a3 a E 3 Length of lower mandible, 3 ne upper following the curve : : 2 4 Breadth of coracoid bone at base, 1 3 Width ofinterspace between clavicles at time of ronution with posterior and superior margin of coracoid bone, 2 4 Length of scapula, 5 : 5 ¢ 4 Length of sternum measured from anterior extremity of keel, : c 5 . : ° 4} Breadth of sternum - ‘ . : 2 Greatest depth of keel of sternum, . : ; 114 Length of fourth sterno-costal bone, . S 1 2 Breadth of pelvis anteriorly, . . 5 1 5 Greatest breadth posteriorly, : . 1 10 Distance between anterior extremity of aie and pos- terior margin of cotyloid cavity, . 2 8 Distance between anterior margin of eaten comin and posterior extremity of pelvis, 2 11 Length of lumbo-sacral bone, : : . 2 19 i caudal vertebra, 2 Aa. cea 2 UL last bone of coccyx, 1 5 i humerus, . . . : 6 9 radius, ; A 7 7 a ulna, . ¢ ° c : 8 2 ot metacarpus, : : : ; 3 4 J hand, . : : . : 2 ee thumb, . 5 : 2 1 eb first Sone: of Pcie finger, . 1 2 73 second “ “ a4 5 . 10} ee ulnar * at ch: : . 5d Breadth of first ‘“ e ut fs - 5 Length of femur, 3 : . : “ 8 ae tibia, . : - : 5 4 se fibula, . ; ; : 3 4 Tt 88 [JuLy, 1846. Inches. Lines. Length of tarso-metatarsal bone, , : . 3 9 f proximal phalanx of hind toe, . ‘ Poaiatas: | 6 Breadth at proximal extremity, . . 1 Length of distal or terminal phalanx of hind toe i base, . 5} a proximal or first phalanx of inner toe, . 54 es second 3 2 ; ee 4 We third ae me ‘ 5 ie first phalanx of middle toe, F - . 14 ee second ‘¢ “ A : : ie; « third a “ 1 Ss fourth at base, 3 “first phalanx of outer tot; 6 “ second ‘ “ 3 ne third a - : 2} i: fourth phalanx of outer toe, . - ; 11 ee fifth at base, (along inferior surface,) 3 ff hind claw measured along its upper curve, 3 1 “inner claw, . - 2 53 ae middle claw, 1 8 * outer claw, 1 4 Distance between distal extremity of hind claw and distal extremity of middle claw, 3 : 7 5 Distance between distal extremity of hind claw and distal extremity of inner claw, . : a 95 3 (To be contend) The Monthly report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. ELECTIONS. Elisha J. Lewis, M. D., of Philadelphia, was elected a member : And Mr. Edward Wilson, formerly of Philadelphia, now of London, And M. de Vernueil, President of the Geological Society of France, were elected Correspondents of the Academy. Aveust, 1846.] 89 Stated Meeting, August 4, 1846. Vict Prestipent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. One hundred species of Plants from Texas, Missouri, Hlinois, &e., from the collections of F. Lindheimer, Dr. Engelmann, and ©. A. Geyer. Presented by Dr. Engelmann, of St. Louis. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Report of the Commissioner of Patents for the year 1845, read 24th Feb. 1846.—pp. 1184. From the Hon. J. R. Inger- soll. Charter, Constitution, and By-Laws of the Cincinnati Horti- cultural Society, with a report of its transactions for 1843 "44°45. From the Society. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, Vol. 4. No. 34. September to December, 1845. From the Society. Proceedings of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Vol. 1. No. 6. From the Society. Proceedings of the Boston Natural History Society, pp. 121 to 136 inclusive. From the Society. Mr. Webster’s vindication of the Treaty of Washington of 1842. Washington, 1846. From the Author. Charts of the Harbors of Annapolis, Maryland, and New Bedford, made under the direction of A. D. Bache, Esq. Superintendent of the U. 8. Coast Survey. From the Trea- ‘sury department, through Prof. Bache. Dr. Thomas B. Wilson presented the following valuable works, in 4 yols. 8yo., illustrated by numerous colored plates; by R. P. Lesson: Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux-mouches. oe o «¢ Oiseaux de Paradis et des Epimaques. s = “¢ Colibris. Les Trochilidees, ou les Colibris et les Oiseaux-mouches. 90 [Aveust, 1846. Also, from the same donor, Part xii (completing the work) of Prof. Owen’s History of British fossil mammalia and Birds. Manual de Malacologie et de Conchyliologie: Par. H. M. Ducrotay de Blainville. 1 vol. 8vo. with a vol. of Plates. Paris, 1825. Presented by William Hembel, Esq. Greenough’s large Geological map of England and Wales, with a 4to memoir explanatory of the same. From the same. Atlas der Cranioscopie, &c., von Dr. Carl Gustay. Carus. Heft 1. 4to. Leipzic, 1843. From Dr. Morton. Notice sur un nouveau genre de Cetacé des Rivicres du centre de l’Amerique meridionale, par M. A. D’Orbigny. 4to. From the Author. Extrait des Rapports (Acad. Royale des Sciences de France,) sur les r sultats scientifiques du voyage de M. Alcide D’Orbigny dans l’Amerique du sud, pendant les années 1826, ’27, ’28, ’29, 30, 31, ’382 and’33. 4to. From the same. Ueber eine bisher unbekannte, krankhafte verinderung an Menschenknochen aus Peru, von Dr. Eugen Zschokke. Aarau, 1845. From Dr. J. J. Von Tschudi. Fauna Peruana. Reptilia. Von Dr. J. J. Von Tschudi. From the Author. Nachtrigliche bemerkungen zu meinem Conspectus Ayium, &e. Von.Dr. von Tschudi. From the Author. Orthop“ disches Institut; Von J. Heine, M. D. 4to. From Dr. G. Jaeger. Ehrengedchtniss des kénig]: Wurtemburgischen Staatsraths von Kielmeyer, von Dr. G. Jaeger. From the same. Karl Franz’s Bellingeri’s anatomisch-physiologishe untersuch- ungen tiber das Riickenmark und seine nerven—Deutsch ‘bearbeitet von Dr. Heermann Kaulla. 4to. Stuttgart, 1833. From the same. Versuche und Beobachtungen tiber den kartoffelban und die krankheiten der kartoffeln besoinders im Jahr 1845. Mit Aveust, 1846.] 91 einem anhang tier kiintslich erzeugten Guano. Von Dr. Eb. Fr. Manz. Stuttgart 1845. From the same. Beitrige zur Petrefaktenkunde, von Heermann von Meyer. Fossil Siugethiere. 4to. From the same. G. F. Jaeger Dr. A. C. N. C. 8. de monstrosa folii Pheenicis dactyliferze conformatione, &c.; cum tabulis 4 lithographicis. 4to. From the same. Der Schidelban des Mosasaurus durch beschreibung einer neuen art deiser gattung erlautert: Von Dr. August Gold- fuss. 4to. From the same. Newspaper article on the geology of Middletown, (Conn.) and vicinity. By Joseph Barratt, M. D. From the Author. Letters were read: From A. D. Bache, Esq. dated Washington, July 31, 1846, presenting the charts received this evening. From the Secretary of the American Philosophical Society, acknowledging the receipt of certain numbers of the Pro- ceedings of the Academy, furnished at the request of the Li- brarian of that Society. From the Secretary of the New York Lyceum of Natural History, dated Aug. 5, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of the last number of the Proceedings. From Dr. J. J. Von Tschudi, dated St. Galen, April 4, 1846 ; acknowledging the receipt of the Academy’s Proceed- ings, and presenting the works received this evening. From Judge Tremper, dated Dresden, N. Y., July 1846, giving the results of observations and experiments made by himself, with the view of ascertaining the amount of evapora- tion from land and water surface in his vicinity, and also the temperature of Seneca Lake. A paper by Dr. Joseph Leidy, entitled, ‘Description of a new genus and species of Entozoa,’ was read and referred to Dr. Zantzinger, Mr. Phillips, and Dr. Morton. The Chairman exhibited a living specimen of a bird, which with another of the same description, had recently been ob- 92 [Avaeust, 1846. tained by Mr. Augustus E. Jessup, from a farm in the vici- nity of Wilmington, Delaware, where they had been raised. These birds present certain characters, which justify the pre- sumption that they are hybrids between the common domes- tic fowl and the guinea fowl. They will be fully described in a subsequent number of the Proceedings. A report from the Building Committee was presented and read, stating that a contract had been,yentered into with a competent person, for making the proposed alterations and additions to the Hall; the work to be commenced forthwith, and to be completed on the Ist of February next. Stated Meeting, August 11, 1846. Dr. Brip@zs in the Chair. Dr. Morton read a letter from Mr. Charles Lyell, dated London, July 14, 1846, enclosing a communication from Prof. Owen, entitled, ‘ Observations on the fossils from the geological cabinet of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, collected from the Brunswick Canal, Georgia, by J. Hamilton Couper, Esq., and presented by the latter to the Academy.’ The paper was read and referred to the followmg commit- tee: Dr. Morton, Dr. Hallowell, and Mr. Richard C. Taylor. Mr. Lyell stated in his letter that the fossils described in the paper, and transmitted to Prof. Owen through himself for that purpose, would be shortly returned to the Academy, with a drawing of Harlanus Americanus. A letter was read from Dr. Asa Gray, Corresponding Sec- retary of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, dated Cambridge, -Mass., Aug. 4, 1846, announcing that a copy of vol. 2, new series, of the Memoirs of that So- ciety, had been forwarded for the Academy, and offering to supply any other published vols. of the Memoirs not already contained in its Library: also requesting in exchange the publications of the Academy. Aveust, 1846.] 93 Whereupon, on motion of Dr. Morton, it was Resolved, That a copy of vols, 1 and 2 of the Proceedings, and such volumes of the Journal as were at the disposal of the Publication Committee, be presented to the American Aca- demy, at Boston. , Meeting for Business, Aug. 25, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. The Committee, te whom was referred the following com- munication, reported in favor of publication. Observations on certain Fossils from the Collection of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. By RicHarD OwEN, Esq., F. R. S., &. &e. [The organic remains which form the subject of the following paper by Prof. Owen, are apart of the series collected by James Hamilton Couper, Esq., during the excavation of the Brunswick Canal, near Darien, in Geor- gia. Prof. Owen, having expressed a wish to examine these fossils, they were transmitted to him through Mr. Charles Lyell, by authority of the Aca- demy, and the following highly interesting memoir was promptly returned. Besides the references by Prof. Owen to Dr. Harlan’s original paper in the American Journal of Science, some valuable remarks by Mr. Couper him- self, will be found in volume I. of these Proceedings, page 216.] Genus Bos. No. 1. Distal half of right humerus: it is about one-sixth less than the same part in Bos primogenius, and more resembles that of the Aurochs: it belongs, probably, to a species of Bison. No. 2. The left tibia of the same species. Genus Hquus. No. 8. Fragments of a lower molar tooth of the size of the Equus cabellus: but the specific character not determinable. Genus Mastodon. No. 4. A portion of tusk, labelled Hippopotamus, but satisfacto- rily known to have belonged to a Proboscidian Pachyderm by the decussating curved lines, intercepting lozenged-shaped spaces, at the transverse fractures of the ivory at the two ends. (The struc- ture is shown in British Fossil Mammalia, p. 291, fig. 101, c.) 13 94 [Aueust, 1846. Transverse fractures of the tusks of Hippopotamus, show fine con- centric lines, as figured in British Fossil Mammalia, p. 402, fig. 160. From the size, shape and slight degree of curvature of the Geor- gian fossil, it may probably have belonged to the left side, lower jaw, of the Mastodon giganteus. Genus Harlamus. No. 5. The middle part of the right ramus of the lower jaw of a large Pachyderm, with the last three (or true) molars, part of the premolar next in advance, and part of the socket of another premo- lar. The crowns of all these teeth appear to have been worn down by mastication to their base; they present the proportions, and the last molar, in a cast transmitted to me by my lamented friend, Dr. Harlan, appears to retain the anterior of the two large transverse ridges, which characterize the teeth of the genus Lophiodon, Cuv.: it likewise possesses the large posterior lobe or talon, which dis- tinguishes this tooth in the Lophiodon from that of the Tapir. The teeth of the fossil from Georgia a little exceed in size those of the Lophiodon Isselanus (Grand Lophiodon d’ Issel, Cuvier, “ Os- semens Fossiles,”’ ed. 1822 , tom. 2. pt. 1, p. 184, pl. 3, fig. 3,) the antero-posterior diameter of the last molar in that species being one inch and eight lines, and in the present fossil one inch and ten lines. But the depth of the jaw below the middle of the last molar in the present fossil is three inches; whilst that in the Lophiodon Isselanus in the figure cited, is scarcely two inches; and Cuvier expressly states (p. 186,) that it surpasses in depth the correspond- ing part of the jaws of the Lophiodon medius (pl. 3, fig. 1,) which has molar teeth of the same size as in the Lophiodon Isselanus. The present fossil has been described and figured in “ Silliman’s American Journal of Science,” vol. 48, 1842, pl. 3, fig. 1, under the name of Sus Americana; Dr. Harlan conceiving that from its general appearance and number of the teeth this fragment bore a close analogy with the same part in the Sus babirussa, Buff, acknowledging, however, that the Babyroussa “‘ was a much smaller animal.” Besides the difference of size, the last molar in the fossil has the anteror transverse ridge proportion- ally larger, and the posterior lobe proportionally smaller than in the Babyroussa, resembling the Lophiodon in the points in which Aveust, 1846.] 95 it thus differs from the species of Sus cited. The form of the fossil jaw differs at the part supporting the last molar from that in the Babyroussa, where the socket of the last molar overhangs the inner surface of the ramus, whilst in the fossil the inner surface of the ramus beneath the last molar describes a gentle convexity from the tooth to the lower margin of the ramus. The outer part of the ramus of the jaw of the Babyroussa begins to expand be- low the fourth and fifth molars, counting forwards from the last, to form the socket of the large tusk; but the fossil jaw does not offer the least indication of an enlargement for that purpose; and the fractured anterior end, as displayed in the cast, is very different in shape from the corresponding part of the jaw in the Baby- roussa, and shows merely the wide dental canal, and no socket for the tusk which would be here situated in the Babyroussa or Wild Boar. The nearest approximation which I could {make from a study of a cast of the fossil in question to any known existing or extinct animal, was to the great tapiroid Pachyderms; but I added in my description of this cast in the Catalogue of Fossil Mamma- lia and Birds in the College of Surgeons 4to. 1845, p. 198, “that ulterior discoveries, may, indeed, show that the Lophiodont denti- tion was combined with other characters in the American fossil, necessitating a generic distinction, and it is well to remember that the dentition of the Macranchenia of South America, a three-toed Pachyderm with an astragalus almost identical with that of the Lophiodon, and of a size which agrees with the jaw of the fossil Sus Americana of Harlan, has yet to be discovered.” The original of the cast shows the course of the enamel on the outer side of the penultimate molar; it there defines an anterior lobe of the crown about one-third the antero-posterior extent of the crown, by a close, straight fold of cuauel penetrating inwards about 23 lines. The anterior lobe or transverse ridge of the corresponding tooth of a Lophiodon might, perhaps, present a similar appearance, if worn down to the base of the crown. But in the present fossil, the enamel proceeds to define a mid- dle lobe on the outer side of the crown, shorter than the foregoing, beyond which the enamel and dentine are worn obliquely away to the base of the posterior fang; the indication of the middle ex- ? 96 Aveust, 1846. ] ternal lobe or festoon of enamel is, however, decisive against its generic relationship with Lophiodon. This indication of the arrangement of the enamel,* slight as it is, reminds one of that in the lower molars of the Toxodon, and another feature of resemblance is the apparent interruption of the enamel at the anterior part of the molar in the fossil. If the presence of two distinct fangs in the Georgian Fossil were adduced as distinguishing it from the Toxodon, it might be replied that perhaps the long curved rootless molars in that animal at the last period of age might, as in the Horse, acquire roots. But the trilobed character is on the outside of the molar in question, and on the inside of those of the Toxodon; in which also the middle lobe only has a coat of enamel, not the anterior or posterior of the inner lobes: there is no doubt, therefore, that the Georgian Pachyderm is generally distinct from Yoxodon, as it is from Lophiodon ; and it would seem to have diminished the interval which divides the strange Gliriform Pachyderm of South America, from the more normal Tapiroid forms of Pachyderms which are found fossil in the old world. As naturalists have accepted the latinized Indian word Tapirus as the generic name of the existing American Pachyderm, which makes the nearest approach to the present remarkable fossil, they will probably sanction the application to the genus and species which it represents, of the name Harlanus Americanus ;7 in honor of the indefatigable and accomplished Naturalist by whom the fossil was first made known to Science. Royal College of Surgeons, London, July 8th, 1846. The following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy :— J. Lawrence Smith, M.D., of Charleston, 8. C. John M. B. Harden, M.D., of Liberty Co., Georgia. John H. Redfield, Esq., of New York. Major Joseph Delafield, of New York. * Fossil Mammalia of the Beagle, pl.v., fig. 2. + A drawing of this fossil has been made in London under the supervi- sion of Professor Owen, but not yet received. It will appear in a future number of the Proceedings. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. VoL. 11. SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER, 1846. No. 5. Stated Meeting, September 1, 1846. Vice PrEesIpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimen, in skin, of Buteo unicinctus, Temm. (Falco Harrisii, Aud.) from the vicinity of Natchez. From Dr. J. C. Jenkins of Natchez. A small collection of insects, in spirits. From Mr. Gambel. Mr. Germain, of Burlington, N. J., presented an additional series of cretaceous fossils, from the marl strata west of that city, embracing the genera Ammonites, Scaphites, Baculites, Mya, Coprolites, and some others, with frag- ments of fossil wood. The Curators announced that the splendid collection of Birds purchased in Paris by Dr. Thomas B. Wilson, and known as the Rivoli collection, has arrived, and is now deposited in the Hall of the Acadamy. Dr. Morton read a paper, describing two living hybrid birds, between the genera Gallus and Numida; which was referred to Mr. Cassin, and Dr. Leidy. 14 ? 98 [SupremBer, 1846. Stated Meeting, September 15, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston. Vols. 1, 3, and Part 1, vol. 4, old series, and vols. 1 and 2, new series. 4to. From the Academy. The Catalogue of Stars, by the British Association for the ad- yancement of Science; containing the mean right ascen- sions, and north polar distances, of 8377 fixed stars, re- duced to January 1, 1850; &c., &c. London, 1845. 4to. From the British Association. American Journal of Science and Arts. New series, vol. 2, No. 5, September, 1846. From the editors. Letters were read : From the Corresponding Secretary of the American Aca- demy of Arts and Sciences of Boston, Dated August 26, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of the volumes of the Proceedings and Journal, authorized by a late resolution of the Academy, to be presented to that Institution. From Mr. John H. Redfield, dated New York, September 11, 1846, and from Major Joseph Delafield, of same date, severally acknowledging the receipt of their notices of elec- tion as correspondents. From Dr. Z. Pitcher, of Detroit, dated September 3, 1846, addressed to Dr. Morton, proposing to exchange duplicate Bird skins, collected by the late Mr. Douglas Houghton. Referred to the Zoological Committee. Dr. Joseph Leidy read a paper ‘On the mechanism which closes the membranous wings of the genus Locusta,’ which was referred to Mr. Haldeman, Dr. Hallowell, and Dr. Bridges. SEPTEMBER, 1846.] 99 Stated Meeting, September 22, 1846. Vick PRESIDENT WETHERILL in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimens of Unio bullatus, U. quadrulus, U. plicatus, U. globulus, U. lugubris, Say, U. Nashvillianus, U. parvus, Anadonta subglobosa, Paludina vivipara, and P. integra; from Lake Concordia, and Ouichita river, Louisiana; also Limonites from the Natchez Bluffs. Presented by Dr. Dickeson. Letters were read : From the Secretary of the Royal Society of Agriculture, &c., of Lyons, dated 20th June, 1846, presenting to the Academy eight volumes of its Annals, and requesting in exchange the publications of this Society. From the agent of the Lyons Society, dated New York, September, 1846, announcing that the volumes referred to had been received by him, and awaited the order of the Academy. From Dr. Charles Huffnagle, of Calcutta, addressed to Dr. Morton, announcing that he had transmitted for deposit in the Academy, a large number of specimens of Natural His- tory from India. From Mr. C. P. Wickersham, dated Kennett Square, Chester county, Pennsylvania, September 15, 1846, addressed to the Curators, offering to present to the Academy a large slab of sandstone, from the Portland quarries, near Middle- town, Connecticut, containing impressions supposed to be of the kind called Ornithoidichnites. 100 [SupremBeErR, 1846. Meeting for Business, Sept. 29, 1846, Vick PrestpENtT Morton in the Chair. The committee on Dr. Leidy’s paper, on a new genus and species of Entozoa, reported in favor of publication. Description of a new genus and species of Entozoa. By Josern Lerpy, M. D. In the course of an investigation of the anatomical structure of the terrestrial gasteropoda of the United States, I discovered a microscopic entozoon inhabiting the fluid contained in the vessie copulatrice or spermatheca of Helix albolabris, since which I have found it to exist in two other species, Helix tridentata, and Helix alternata, and I have no doubt of its existence in others, not yet having had an opportunity of examining further. As there ap- pears to be no known genus in which this animal can be placed, I have been necessitated to form the following: Cryptobia. Animal minute; form exceedingly proteoid ; inter- nal organization cellular or granular. C. helicis. Colorless; form, ordinarily elongate, ellip- solid, fusiform, or ovate; caudated, caudz opposite, one longer than the other, Internal granular structure consisting of two large cells and numerous minute granules. Total length from the 126th to the 100th of a line. Habitat, the vessie copulatrice or spermatheca of Helix albolabris, Helix ftridentata and Helix alternata. The name of this genus is derived from xur7d:, hidden and Biéw, tolive. This singular entozoon in its general appearance and organization appears to be intermediate between Cercaria seminis and Filaria. Its varied form and movements are curious to observe ; at one moment globular, then oval, ovate, fusiform, sig- moid, crescentic, &c., it appears as if it would outvie the kalei- doscope in its changes. The motions are vibratile, rotary, with a lateral progression, or whirling in circles like the insect Gyrinus. Cryptobia helicis might be confounded with the spermatozoa of the animals in which they are parasitic, on account of the organ in which they are found being connected with the generative appara- tus, and its supposed use as a spermatheca, but they may be readily SEPTEMBER, 1846. ] 101 distinguished ; the spermatozoa of Helices generally having either a uniform sigmoid or a beaded body, with an enormous propor- tionate length of tail, and a slow, vibratile motion. It may be well to mention that C. helicis does not exist in the collapsed state of the generative organs. The subjoined sketch represents some of the principal forms of the animal, highly ry CN s The committee on the following description, by Dr. Morton, of two living Hybrid Birds, reported in favour of publication. Description of two living Hybrid Fowls, between GALLUS and NuMIDA. By SAMvuEL GreorGE Morton, M. D. The singular birds which form the subject of this communica- tion, were bred on a farm about seven miles from Wilmington, in the State of Delaware. The person who raised them states, that the eggs that produced them differed in no respect from those of the guinea fowl, were part of a large number that were hatched at the same time, and that the birds are known to be just four years old. My friend, Mr. Augustus HE. Jessup, having accident- ally observed these birds on the above mentioned farm, pur. chased them of the proprietor, and sent them to my care, with a request that they might be eventually placed in the Collections of the Academy. Both are yet living and in good health; and the following description, in which I have been materially assisted by my friend Mr. William Gambel, has been drawn up after many examinations, made during a month and upwards that the birds have been in the charge of Mr. Robert Kilvington, horticulturist of this city. ? 102 [SepremBer, 1846. The first of these birds is mottled with the colour of a reddish brown chicken and guinea fowl, (Numida meleagris.) Back and rump lineated with darkish brown and whitish, and a tinge of yellowish brown. Greater wing-coverts, and margins of secon- daries, reddish brown; breast, belly, sides and under tail-coverts, dirty white, with scattering feathers of the same. Quills and tail-feathers dusky brown, lineated, and finely speckled like those of the guinea fowl. ‘Two quills in one wing and one in the tail are entirely white. Wings concave and rounded, one foot in length from flexure. First quill an inch and a half shorter than the second, which last is one inch shorter than the third; 3—8 quills about equal. ‘Tail of fifteen feathers, rounded ; the two middle ones longest and pointed. Heads sparsely covered with feathers, almost bare for a consi- derable distance around the eye. Upper mandible dusky, except at tip, which, with the lower mandible, is whitish; towards the base it is somewhat striated, and covered bya reddish, fleshy cere, elongated at the angle of the mouth into barbles, which, however, are only rudimentary in comparison with those of the guinea fowl. Beneath the skin a distinct, hard, bony ridge can be felt, extending over the top of the head. Another bony ridge extends over the eye, giving it a sunken appearance. The nos- trils are half closed by a fleshy membrane; sides of head and front, white. Top of head and nape with linear black feathers, elongated on the nape into hackles. Neck and upper part of the breast reddish-brown. Tarsus very stout, with large, divided scutellw ; length 33 inches; middle toe and nail 2? inches. Total length about two feet. The second of these birds bears yet more resemblance to a guinea fowl, both in shape and colour, than the preceding, not being so much mottled with reddish-brown feathers, but princi- pally with white. The bill appears to be not so much arched; the upper mandible is barbled as in the other, and the head is in general the same, Back, shoulders and upper tail-coverts dusky, lineated with whitish like the guinea fowl; greater wing-coverts, fading into white, the tertiaries being margined with the same. One quill white. Quills like the other as to colour and markings ; 3d to 6th nearly equal. From flexure the wing measures 113 inches. SEPTEMBER, 1846. ] 103 Back of head and neck with black linear feathers, not so much like hackles, as those of the other bird. Breast, beneath and sides, whitish. Tail nearly plucked out, as in the other; upper tail-coverts, full and pendant. The bare flesh around the eye in both birds is tinged with blue. The sounds which these birds utter are also intermediate, but partake much more of the harshness of the guinea fowl, although they occasionally clucké not unlike the common hen. They are shy, wild and resentful, boldly attacking any one who irritates them. They have several times escaped from custody, and, flown a hundred yards or more, when they alight and run with great celerity. The sex of these birds has not been determined with certainty, but the male characters seem to predominate. During the four years they were on the farm, they were never observed to have sexual intercourse with any other fowls. It is designed on a future occasion to notice their anatomical peculiarities, when the productive organs will be carefully examined. It has been remarked by a distinguished naturalist, that “many of the birds which compose the gallinaceous order, appear to be less difficult to unite with strange species, than those of any other order. From the great majority of pheasants, mongrels may thus be produced ; all the Hoccos (Crax) will couple together in a state of domestication ; the pheasant will ally with the cock ; the last with the turkey, with which the hoccos born in the do- mestic state will also unite. It appears, in fact, very possible to produce mongrels from the major part of those galline which are suceptible of cultivation.” * The latter remark receives strong corroboration from the facts . we have adduced in this paper; and we believe that a hybrid progeny between the guinea fowl and common fowl is now for the first time made knowu to naturalists. The fact derives its peculiar interest from the remoteness of the genera which have thus produced an intermediate variety. _ * Griffith’s Cuvier, VIII. pp. 173, 175, 176. Prichard, Researches into the Physical History of Mankind, 1, p. 140. 3d ed. 104 [SepTemBer, 1846. The committee on the following paper by Dr. Joseph Leidy, reported in fayor of publication. On the mechanism which closes the membranous wings of the genus Locusta. By Josepu Leipy, M. D. The membranous wings or ale of the locusts while at rest are folded up, like a closed fan, beneath the anterior pergamentaceous wings. These are opened or expanded by the contraction of appropriate muscles (extensores ale) contained within the thorax; the tendons of which are inserted into the ribs or longitudinal veins at the root of the wings. When one of the wings is sepa- rated from the body of the insect, and stretched open by’ the fingers, upon letting go, it will be found instantly to close or re- sume the position of rest. The mechanism which produces this closure in the separated wing, as well as when attached to the living animal, I find to be spiral ligamentous bands, wound, like the thread of a screw, around the transverse or connecting veins, which latter are also flexible. By this arrangement, upon the contraction of the alary extensors, the spring-like ligaments, or ligamenta spiralia as I will call them, are stretched in the expansion of the wings, and upon the relaxation or cessation of the action of the muscles, the physical properties alone of the ligamenta spiralia, in resuming their unstretched state, close the wings. ‘These ligamenta spiralia are numerous, and exist in all the species of Locusta possessing perfect ale which I have examined. To this short description I append a drawing of several of these ligaments, magnified, from a preparation in Canada balsam, of one of the ale of Locusta Caro- lina. OctoBER, 1846. ] 105 ELECTION OF CORRESPONDENT. Prof. Joseph Zuccarini, of Munich, Bavaria, was elected a correspondent of the Academy. Stated Meeting, October 6, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York. Nos. 6 and 7, Vol. 4. From the Lyceum. Sur l’usage inopportun des medicamens. Essai du docteur Ascagne Pisani. Traduit de I’Italien par Louise Desmon- ceaux. Naples, 1846. 12mo. 3 copies, From the Author. Annales des Sciences physiques et naturelles publiées par la Societé Royale d’Agriculture, &c., de Lyons. Tomes 8. 8vo. From the Society. Natural History of the State of New York, (published by authority of the government of the State) 11 vols. 4to., in- eluding : 1. Zoology of New York, Parts 1, 2, 3, and 5. By James HK, Dekay. | 2. Mineralogy of New York, By Lewis C. Beck, M. D. 3. Botany. A Flora of the State of New York. Vol. 1. By John Torrey. 4. Geology and Palxontology; comprising Geology of the Ist Geological district of New York, by William W. Mather: of the second Geological district, by Ebenezer. Emmons, M. D.: of the 8d Geological district, by Lardner Vanuxem : of the 4th Geological district, by James Hall. Also, a Geological map of the State of New York. Purchased by order of the Academy. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Nos. 10 and 11, Vol. 2. From the Association. Historical collections of Louisiana, By Benjamin F, French. New York, 1846. 8vo, From the Author. 106 [Octoser, 1846. Report of the Geological Survey of the province of New Bruns- wick, with a topographical account of the Public lands and the districts explored in 1842. By Abraham Gesner, F.G.S., Provincial Geologist, &c. St. Johns, 1843. From the Author. Naturgeschichte derr Infusionsthiere. Von Professor §. Kutorga. Mit einem Atlasse. St. Petersburg, 1839, Carls- ruhe, 1841. From L. de Harden, Esq., through Charles Cramer, Esq. Classification of the forest trees of New Brunswick. By M. H. Perley, Esq. (a newspaper slip.) From the Author. A letter was read from J. M. B. Harden, M. D., of Liberty county, Georgia, dated 18th September, 1846, acknowledg- ing the receipt of his notice of election as a correspondent. Also a letter from J. H. Redfield, Esq., Corresponding See- retary of the N. Y. Lyceum, dated 24th September, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of the last number of the Proceed- ings. Dr. Dickeson exhibited a large and remarkably varied series of fossil bones, obtained by him from the vicinity of Natchez, Miss. The collection embraces the entire head and half of the lower jaw of the Megalonyx Jeffersoni,* now for the first time discovered; together with many parts of the skeleton, and indeed of several skeletons of that animal, sufficient to enable its com- plete osteological reconstruction. The stratum that contains these organic remains, i$ a tenacious blue clay that underlies the dilu- vial drift east of Natchez, and which diluvial deposit abounds in bones and teeth of the Mastodon giganteum. * Dr. Dickeson originally suggested, from partial comparisons, that this cranium belonged to the Megalonyz, and not to the Mylodon, as others had supposed; his opinion was fully confirmed by M. Agassiz on a recent examination; and this distinguished naturalist has prcved the Megalonyx laqueatus of Harlan, to belong, not to Megalonyx, but to some other but nearly allied genus. OctoBErR, 1846. ] 107 The animals associated with the Megalonyx are, an Ursus, a Bos, two species of Cervus, one or two species of Equus, and several undetermined genera, all which are now in progress of delineation and description for the Academy’s Journal. Dr. Dickeson presented another relic of yet greater interest ; viz., the fossil os innominatum of the human subject, taken from the above mentioned stratum of blue clay, and about two feet below the skeletons of the Megalonyx and other extinct genera of quadupeds. This ancient relic of our species, is that of a young man of about sixteen years of age, as determined by its size and form, and by the fact that the epiphyses have separated from the tuberosity of the Ischium, and from the crista of the ilium. Nearly all the os pubis is wanting, the upper posterior part of the ileum is broken away, and but half the acetabulum remains. That this bone is strictly in the fossil state, is manifest from its physical characters, in which it accords in every respect of color, density, &c., &c., with those of the Megalonyx and other associated bones. That it could not have drifted into the position in which it was found, is manifest from several facts: 1. That the plateau of blue clay is not appreciably acted on by those causes that produce ravines in the superincumbent diluvial; 2. That the human bone was found at least two feet below three associated skeletons of the Megalonyx, all which, judging from the opposition or proximity of their several parts, had been quietly deposited in this locality, independently of any active current or other displacing power ; and lastly, because there was no admixture of diluvial drift with the blue clay, which latter retains its homogeneous character equally in the higher part that furnished the extinct quadrupeds, and. in its lower part that contained the remains of man. Dr. Dicke- son has announced his intention of returning, at an early period of the present autumn, to resume his explorations in this prolific and most interesting locality; and it is earnestly hoped that his researches may lead to a further elucidation of this important question in science. Dr. Leidy stated that he had lately detected the existence of an Entozoon in the ‘superficial part of the extensor mus- 108 [Ocropgr, 1846. cles of the thigh of a hog. The Entozoon is a minute, coiled worm, contained in a cyst. The cyst are numerous, white oval in shape, of a gritty nature, and between the 30th and 40th of an inch in length. The Entozoon he supposes to be the Trichina spiralis, heretofore considered as peculiar to the human species. He could perceive no distinction between it and the specimens of T. spiralis which he had met with in several human sub- jects in the dissecting rooms, where it had also been observed by others, since the attention of the scientific public had been directed to it by Mr. Hilton and Prof. Owen. Dr. Leidy also exhibited a singular knotted mass of living Gordii, or hair worms, with numerous long strings of ova at- tacked, which had been taken a few days since from one of the hydrants of this city. Stated Meeting, October 18, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Numerous specimens of minute recent and fossil Shells from the shore of Seneca Lake, N. Y. Presented by Judge Tremper. Native Copper from the Bay of Fundy. From Professor Johnson. A large slab of Sandstone, from the Portland Quarries, near Middletown, Connecticut, containing numerous marks of Ornithoidichnites. Presented by Messrs. C. P. Wicker- gham, and L. F. Jones, of Chester County, Pennsylvania. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Continuazione delle osservzioni nell’ anno 1841, sulle larve di Scolia flavifrons. Da Carlo Passerini. Firenze 1841. 4to. From the Anthor. OctoBER, 1846. ] 109 Professor Johnson read an extract of a letter from Judge Tremper, in continuation of his observations on the tempera- ture and evaporation of Seneca Lake ; also some remarks on the increased rapidity of evaporation from the earth, when the herbage is closely cropped, as in grazing and pasture fields, and the causes thereof. Dr. Dickeson stated, that having noticed some tracks’ re- sembling Ornithichnites, which were produced by the Alliga- tor, he was induced to cause some tracks to be made in clay by that animal, several of which impressions he exhibited. He also mentioned that tracks of other animals had been re- peatedly noticed by him, which he thought closely resembled the so-called bird tracks of the sandstone slab this evening presented to the Society. Dr. Dickeson also made some interesting observations in relation to the habits of the Alligator. Professor Johnson offered some remarks on Drift :—He re- marked that in the vicinity of St. John’s, N. B., he had met with some well marked examples of diluvial action, as evin- ced by scratches on the rocks at great depth. In some cases the grooves were to be found well marked on the side of the rock, while on the other no such action was manifest; but boulders not in situ were deposited there, as if from the action of a current in a direction from the grooved to the unaffected side of the rock. These boulders also exhibited grooves on their surface. Stated Meeting, October 20, 1846. Vice PrestpeNT WETHERILL in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Morton deposited six embalmed heads of ancient Egypt- ians, presented to him by A. C. Harris, Esq. Dr. Dickeson deposited a very extensive collection of speci- mens in fossil zoology, comparative anatomy, Indian relics, &e., obtained from the Natchez bluffs, the southern lakes and rivers, the aboriginal mounds, &c. 110. [OcroBER, 1846. Mr. Gambel read a continuation of his ‘Remarks on the Birds of Upper California,’ which was referred to Messrs. Cassin, Townsend, and Woodhouse. On motion of Dr. Morton, the Curators were authorized to receive on deposit, and to furnish accommodations in the Hall, for the large and interesting collections of Dr. M. W. Dickeson, deposited on this evening. Meeting for Business, October 27, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. The committee on Mr. Gambel’s paper read at last meet- ing, reported in favor of publication. Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California. By Witrram GAMBEL. [Contin ued from page 48, vol. iii.} PASSERES. Hirvnpo thallassina, Swains. Violet-green Swallow. This beautiful species I fonnd passing to the northward through Califor- nia, in the spring. Hirunpo fulva, Vieill. Republican Swallow. This is the most abundant swallow on our western coast, and arrives in California about the latter part of February or beginning of March. They immediately resort to the neighborhood of the towns, missions and farm- houses, and soon commence repairing their old retort-shaped nests, with which sheltered walls, the eves, and even window frames of the houses, are sometimes nearly covered. The nest is also frequently made on the trunks of large trees in the woods. They are very loath to quit their old nesting places. and will persist in building them up, however often they may be destroyed either by the rain or the inhabitants. Cuewipon bicolor, Vieill. White-bellied Swallow. This is also a common species, and a few appear to remain all winter, but the greater part arrive about the latter partof February. At Santa Barbara, Octoper, 1846.] 111 I found their nests, as usual, in the knot holes of the evergreen oaks in April. Coryte riparia, Linn. Bank Swallow. Common; burrowing their nests in the sandy banks of small streams and creeks, which have worn deep ravines. I also observed another swallow, not far from Monterey, in August, with a deeply forked tail, like our barn swallow, but apparently differently marked. CerYLeE alcyon, Linn. Kingfisher. Common along the whole of the western coast. In California it is never observed to frequent the inland streams and creeks, being exclusively found along the rocky shores and islands. CaALLiPHLox rufa, Gmel. Rufous Humming Bird. This beautiful little flame bearer is not unfrequent throughout California. CatiipHiox anna, Less. Anna Humming Bird. Trochilus icterocephalus. Nutt. Man. Orn. vol. 1, 2d Ed. p. 712. A very abundant and interesting species, numbers passing the winter in California ; at such times inhabiting sheltered hill sides and plains, where at all seasons a few bushy plants are in flower, and afford it a scanty subsist- ence. They appear, however, in greater numbers about the latter part of February and during the month of March; the country is soon carpeted with flowers, and the Anna humming bird, revelling among their sweets, commences the duty of rearing its young. About the Pueblo, the vineyards and gardens are its favourite resort, forming its delicate downy nest in a small flowering bush, or some concealed spot about the fence. In April and May these may be found in almost every garden. In other parts it attaches its nest almost exclusively to a low, horizontal branch of the evergreen oak, (Quercus agrifolia) so common throughout the country ; the nest is small, being about an inch in depth and one and a quar- ter in diameter ; it is not very thick, and is formed in the most delicate man- . ner of pappus and down of various plants, held together and matted into a soft felt with spider’s webs, which latter I have frequently observed them collecting for the purpose in the spring along hedges and fence rows, and at first supposed they were only searching them for gnats and small insects which might be entangled, but ina nest which I now have the base is formed of a few dried male aments of the oak, and which with the adjoining felt- like matting of pappus, is agglutinated and bound around the twig witha thick layer of spider’s web. The eggs, as usual, are two, white and ellip- tical. The note resembles that of the Rufous humming bird, and is a slender chep, frequently repeated, but during the breeding season they are very pugnacious, and the little combatants dart through the trees, like meteors, uttering a loud and repeated twittering scold. It has the same habit also, 112 [OcToBER, 1846. that has been remarked in the rufous humming bird, that of ascending in clear weather to a considerable height in the air, and then descending with great rapidity, uttering at the same time a peculiar note. Nuttall, who brought this species from California, did not procure the male, but saw it frequently, and supposed it to have a yellow spot on the crown. I discovered that that which deceived him in this respect was the glutinous pollen of a tubular flower upon which it feeds, adhering to the rigid feathers of the crown, and making it look as if it really had a yellow head. I have also seen the bill for half its length covered in the same manner. Sirra carolinensis, Briss. Carolina Nuthatch. This species is common in the pines of the Rocky Mountains, and alsoin the wooded regions of the western coast. Sirra canadensis, Linn. Canada Nuthatch. I found this little wanderer very abundant in the mountains of the inte- rior of California in October, roving in company with busy flocks of the Parus montanus nobis. Sirra pygmea, Vigors. Pigmy Nuthatch. Extremely abundant iu winter in Upper California, sometimes almost covering the trunks and branches of the pine trees, through which they ex- clusively forage. Around Monterey, particularly, the trees at times are alive with the noisy little creatures, incessantly uttering their monotonous queru- lous notes as they run around the branches. The note is generally a repeated whistling, wit, wit, which, when one commences, the rest join in; they also utter a whistling trill, at the same time industriously searching the tree throughout, and only leaving it when every crack has been examined for the concealed insect fare. Hanrpes rediviva, Nobis, Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sc. vol. 2, p. 264. Promerops de la Californie Septentrionale, La Perouse. Atlas to voy- ages, pl. 47. This very remarkable bird was first noticed by La Perouse, who figured it in the atlas to his voyages, and subsequently by other writers when treating of the Tenuirostres, on his authority, as a Promerops. On comparison, it will be found more properly to belong to the great family Certhide, and is allied to the oven birds of S. America, (Furnarius) both in general appearance, and as far as I can gather, in habits also, but the bill bears a greater resemblance to some of the large wren-like birds (Thryothorus ?) of tropical America. It does not stand alone in our country; I have lately been shown by Mr Audubon a specimen received from near Galveston, Texas, which he sup- posed to be the bird I had described, but upon comparison, it proved to be a distinct species with the bill more curving at the tip, and not so much flattened, of which no doubt a description will soon be published. OcToBER, 1846. ] 113 Trogiopytus Bewickii, Aud. Bewick’s Wren. Common, keeping in low bushes and piles of brush, as well as about old dead trees and logs, over and around which it flits with the greatest ac- tivity, uttering, when approached, the usual grating scold of the wrens. TroGtopytas palustris, Wils. Marsh Wren. I found this species in small reedy marshes in the Rocky Mountains of the interior, in October. TROGLODYTES sylvesiris, Nobis. Audubon’s Wood Wren. T. Americana, Aud. Orn. Biog., vol. 2, p. 452, pl. 179. A summer resident among the evergreen oaks of California, in which it sings and breeds. I have changed the name of this species from that given by its discoverer, because that a Zroglodyies Americanus, from Cayenne, was described by Cuvier, in the Gal. du Paris. See Lesson’s Traité dé Ornithologie, p. 400. SIAL, artica, Swains. Artic Blue bird. This beautiful azure songster is common throughout the northern pro- vinces of Mexico. In the neighborhood of Santa Fé it is abundant, keeping about the houses and gardens where they breed, sometimes forming its nest in boxes whieh are stuck up for the purpose by the inhabitants. In the ranges of the Rocky Mountains, as far as California, we frequently found it, and always associated with the S. Mexicana, both at this season occa- sionally uttering their cheerful song to remind us of home. Siaura Mezicana, Swains. Western Blue bird. S. occidentalis, Townsend, Aud. This species is found throughout the Rocky Mountains, in company with the former, and in California is by far the most abundant species. In April and May, I found it breeding in the knot holes of the evergreen oaks. During winter they assemble in small flocks, and frequent the weedy plains and valleys of the mountains. Turpus migratorius, Linn. American Robin. We found the Robin scatteringly throughout the Rocky Mountains, and a few are found at all seasons, in California. Turpus nevius,Gmel. Varied Thrush. I have only observed this beautiful species to pass through California during the spring and autumn, in silent flocks. Turpus minor Gmel. Hermit Thrush. T. nanus. Dwarf Thrush. Aud. Orn. Biog. 5, p, 204, pl. 419; Nutt. Man. p. 396. T. solitarius. Auc. The confusion hitherto existing in the description of the nearly allied group of Thrushes to which this belongs, has rendered the determination of the species exceedingly difficult, and at best but a matter of uncertainty, ? 114 [OctoseEr, 1846. The Dwarf Thrush of Audubon was founded upon specimens from the Atlantic States, and no doubt upon the true Hermit Thrush. Mr. Pickering, and also Mr. Nuttall, must have had the 7’ olivaceus, since characterized by Drs. Brewer and Giraud before them, and mis- taking it for the Hermit Thrush, when they distinguished the 7. nanus as a species. An examination of specimens of the 7. minor from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America shows no difference in any way, except that perhaps the western one is somewhat smaller, yet the difference is scarcely appreciable. From the measurement of many western specimens, f found its length to be 6} inches, and the extent of wings 10,inches; the tail, wings, and relative length of quills the same as in our eastern one, and in fact, I think it can in no possible way be distinguished as specifi- cally different. A European specimenalso of the same species, from the Ri- voli collection, now in the Academy, is the same in every respect as our own. That which is most remarkable in the character of this delicate and gentle bird, is its solitary and retiring disposition ; avoiding the ruthless gaze of man, it glides into the deepest shade of the forest or underwood, and is but seldom seen, except unconsciously, when earnestly engaged, scratching upon the ground in search of food; or else, it be discovered while perched upon a low leafy branch or twig, when it allows a very near approach, as if depending for concealment and security upon the thickness of the foliage and bushes around. In the wooded regions of the Rocky mountains, I found it not uncom- mon, always keeping on, or very near the ground. It is very frequent throughout California, and in the spring may be found in the retired hedges of the vineyards, where very possibly it breeds. Miaus montanus, Towns. Mountain Mocking bird. We occasionally met with individuals of this mocking bird along the bushy banks of streams in the interior, during September and October, then silent. Mims polyglottis, Linn. Common Mocking bird. I observed a few of these in sheltered ravines during the winter, and in May, around Santa Barbara, the woods were ringing with their inimitable song, at this time, mimicking Bullock’s oriole, and the western Blue bird. Cincius Americanus, Swains. American Dipper. A few of these are found along the solitary streams of the interior. Antuvs Zudovicianus, Licht. American Titlark. This species appears to be one of the most extensively distributed of N. American birds, being found throughout the length and breadth of our coun- try. In the desert regions, between Santa Fé and California, it was one of the few birds we met with ; then going in small flocks, either on the plains among arid Artemesia and sage bushes, or along the courses of rivers and small streams. In California it is abundant, particularly in winter, when OcToBER, 1846.] 115 it frequents the seashore to pick up insects, and perhaps small shells, from the seaweed which is cast ashore. Reeuwvs calendula. Ruby-crowned Kinglet. This species, like many of the most diminutive birds, is found dis- tributed over the whole extent of our vast continent, thereby showing its connection as a single zoological centre or province of creation. In the highest ranges of the Roeky mountains, we met with the Ruby- crowned wren in large flocks, roaming in company with the Parus minimus, Towns., also in large fiocks, enlivening those dreary solitudes with their restless activity and twittering while in search of food. Throughout Cali- fornia it is equally abundant; ever varying habits and note making it but teo often the victim of the gun in supposition of being something else. The Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. By permission of the Society, a paper was read, entitled, ‘On seyeral new genera and species of Insects, by S. 8. Haldeman,’ which was referred to a committee, consisting of Messrs. Leidy, Hallowell, and Bridges. ELECTION. Ambrose W. Thomson, Esq., and Dr. M. W. Dickeson, of Philadelphia, were elected Members: And J. B. §. Johnson, M. D., of Boston, and C. B. Adams, Esp., of Vermont, were elected Correspondents. | etek ey f a0 oe 7 he vind | 1 P ete Jiro te GoM Miah ie Hels flee bidvaabap ‘Lous ul Fess og aon ahh Uia ae entre wb f atte storia pfs wi sd alas ou! ie } et: rs i 4 i RpM, or ees 2 . it, ee Pe hak fiitr Sow" “ysdiovtel grilecmene | sdttoqenelly She LJ ; Gar Fi vee crt ‘ Cay hed ee. » ‘4a : £. stot ie a? Ki) itetiv' Sgt al ok yd etonel ueasitoge. Sos, tenetyy, RT: ia ; eqn brmtargan » Hedbvaginnse ee one esse : ys Po, Ba walt © ey ie. Pee ary » ¢ to a : -, uy say" ea » 5 | a 7 via :- Sam her + wai 1 aft yo ee ba oenodt a ii, aarp = eX. hina Ry Py ¥s “#5 foal grat mn iA Pia ei ra a uf iy tal be ° Sirobadgnaiiaal es oh OG T 4 pointes: " oe } 7 7 wie - th 9e” ¢ | ‘ ' = iat? est o ¥ : : won {e148 i] a oy Amr: m4 : 4 4 4 . 7 ° as é oy} “ah ps am “ae , i * * Vr ‘ e oh : : S f aA ' 7 ee . } ie that): i" ~ ; italy SOY hows Fane | a . nite. ctiarael we ¥ = << bal a4 Gn, some? Moi row IPP ge os a (ied i: en; x4 the de Gx ea 3 a ee i eee ite * - Ae oT 44 a) ie Put ie ' , 1. ni Ay 7 . o~ oe ; Pye AY fae arse PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Vior.. Tu. NOV. AND DEC., 1846. No. 6. Stated Meeting, November 3, 1846. Vick PresIDENT MortTOoN in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A large collection of fossil bones of a young Mastodon, taken from the farm of Mr. William Pancoast, near Plattsburg, New Jersey. Also a human cranium and numerous fragments of other human bones, from the site of a supposed Indian cemetery, about 10 miles east of Bur- lington in that State. Presented by Mr. Pancoast, through Dr. Hallowell. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Second Annual Report of the Geology of Vermont. By C. B. Adams. Burlington, Vt., 1846. From the Author. Address to the British Association for the advancement of Science. By Sir Roderick Impey Murchison. London, 1846. From M. Agassiz. Elogé de Louis Levin Jacobson. Discours prononcé in Da- nois al’ Academie royale des Sciences de Copenhague ; Se- ance du 1* Mars. 1844; par D. F. Eschricht, M. D. Co- penhague, 1844. From ete through Dr. Morton- 118 [Nov., 1846. De organis quse respiratione et nutrione foetus mammalium inserviunt. Prolusia academica quam scripsit D. F. Esch- richt, M. D. Hafniz, 1837. From the same. Om underségelsen af de Nordiske Hvyaler af D. I’. Eschrict, M. D. Kjébenhavn. From the same. Underségelsen over Hvaldyrene af D. F. Eshricht : Forste afhandling—Bemerkninger over Cetologiens tidligere og Neerveerende skjebne. Anden afhandling—Anatomisk Beskrivelse af de ydre foster- former hos to Nordiske Fiuhval-arter, med Anvendelse paa Physiologien og Zoologien. Tredie afhandling—Om fosterformene Bardihyalernes erne- rings-og Forplantelsesredskaber. Fjerde afhandling—Om Nebhvalen. [rom the same. Anatomische unter suchungen iiber de Clione Borealis. H™ Carl Holbéll und D. F. Eschrict, M. D. Kopenhagen, 1838. From the same. The North American Sylva. By Michaux and Nuttall. Vol. J. Philadelphia, 1842. In exchange. A letter was read from Mr. Edward Wilson, dated Leyd- stip House, near Tenby, Pembrokeshire, England, 22d Sept., 1846, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as . a Correspondent. Dr. Morton read a portion of a paper intended for publi- cation in the American Journal of Science, on Hybridity in animals considered in reference to the question of the Unity of the Human Species. Stated Meeting, November 10, 1846. Vice PresipEnt Moron in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Mr. Lewis Germain, of Burlington, N. J., presented an ad- ditional number of fossils from the marl strata near that place. Also the tooth of a Sphyrena from Mullica Hill, New Jersey. Nov., 1846.] 119 Original specimen of Rafinesque’s Mazama salinaria. Pre- sented by Mr. Haldeman. [Mr. H. stated that this was in reality merely a single prong of the horn of a Cervus, the interior being mineralized. Two fine specimens, in skin, of Falco leucocephalus. From Dr. Heermann. Dr. Dickeson presented twenty-six species of fossil Helix from the Drift west of Natchez; and also deposited six human erania, four of which are from the mounds near that place. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Astronomical Observations made at the Naval Observatory, Washington, under orders of the Secretary of the Navy, dated Aug., 1838. By Lieutenant J. M. Gilliss, U. 8. N. Washington, 1846. From Lieut. Gilliss. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society. Vol. 4, No. 35. Jan. to June, 1846. From the Society. The American Journal of Science and Arts. New series. Vol. 2, No. 6. From the Editors. Expedition shells, described for the work of the U. 8. Ex- ploring Expedition. By Aug. A. Gould, M. D. Boston, 1846. From the Author. On the Volcanoes of the Maon. By James D. Dana. New Haven, 1846. Erom the Author. Medical Examiner, Vol. 4, No. 6, containing an article by Dr. E. Hallowell, on the habits and post mortem appear- ances Of a Chimpanzee (Simia Troglodytes) which died in Philadelphia. From Dr. Hallowell. Letters were read, From Mr. C. B. Adams, dated Middlebury, Vermont, Nov. 5, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent. And from Mr. C. P. Wickersham, dated Kennett Square, Chester Co., Pennsylvania, Oct. 26, 1846, addressed to the Corresponding Secretary, containing the following, in refer- ue 120 [Nov., 1846. ence to his recent donation to the Academy, of a fine speci- men of fossil tracks in the red sandstone of the Connecticut Valley. “Tt may not be improper for me to add, that we were shown on a large block of stone, by a gentleman connected with the quar- ries, tracks resembling those of some of our land animals, per- haps those of a mink in size. They were very distinct, though rather lightly impressed, there being, I believe, two rows across the stone. And that early last spring I found among some frag- ments, thrown out in consequence of sinking a well deeper, in Rockyhill, Ct., a specimen of fossil shell, or something having a close resemblance to one. One side of it is very perfect, the other is embedded in the stone, and is probably a small bi-valye, nearly an inch in length, and near three quarters of an inch in breadth. I sent it to Professor Silliman, with permission to deposit it in the cabinet of Yale College. If a shell, it appears to be the first we have any account of as having been found in the sandstone of the Connecticut Valley. The suggestion that the fossil tracks may probably be those of some Sauroid reptile, is doubtless worthy of attention. But from the few observations I made during my four years’ residence at the University of that place, I am inclined to the opinion that they can never be attributed to any other than biped animals of some type or other. Where opportunity is afforded for the inspection of a large number of successive tracks, they are found to be at regular intervals, along a line in the direction of the motion of the centre of gravity of the animals; and the line drawn through the heel and centre toe makes but a small deflexion from the line of motion of the animal. In all the tracks which I have carfully noticed, each alternate track exactly resembles that which precedes it, and in some cases where there is a slight peculiarity in one of the feet, this fact is very apparent. The heel of the track does not exhibit any sign of the impression of a portion of the leg adjoining the foot, not even where the animal has passed up or down a small declivity, as was the case with some tracks on that portion of the specimen in your museum, destroyed by the workmen in our absence. If uric acid is found only in the excrements of birds, Nov., 1846.] 121 the analysis of some of the coprolites found in the valley is pretty conclusive evidence that birds did exist there at the time the sand- stone was forming. Now if we take the Crocodile, Alligator, or any of the Saurian type with which we are acquainted, we should expect to see their tracks made at irregular intervals, and at some distance on either side of a plane passing perpendicularly through the centre of gravity of the animal in the direction of its motion, especially when we consider the width the feet are separated, and the clumsy manner in which these animals must move. These ani- mals would, in all probability, leave the print of a portion of the leg next the foot, and which, if I mistake not, is the case with the fossil tracks acknowledged to be of the Sauroid character, found in the same valley.” Dr. Morton concluded the reading of his memoirs on ‘‘ Hybridity in animals considered in reference to the question of the Unity of the Human Species,”’ and after some general remarks, submitted the following conclusions : I. A latent power of hybridity exists in many animals in the wild state, in which state, also, hybrids are sometimes produced. 2. Hybridity takes place not only among different species, but also among different genera; and the cross-breeds have been prolific in both cases. 3. Domestication does not cause this faculty, but merely evolves it. 4, The capacity for fertile hybridity, ceteris paribus, exists in animals in proportion to their aptitude for domesticity and culti- vation. 5. Since various species of animals are capable of producing a fertile hybrid offspring, hybridity ceases to be a test of specific affiliation. 6. Consequently, the mere fact that the several races of man- kind produce, with each other, a more or less fertile progeny, constitutes, in itself, no proof of the unity of the human species. 122 [Nov., 1846. Stated Meeting, Nov. 17, 1846. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Casts of Charcharodon Mortoni, Gibbes, C. rectidens, Agassiz, and C. megalodon, Ag., from the Eocene of South Caro- lina. From Dr. R. W. Gibbes, of S. Carolina. Tooth of a Mosasaurus, from New Jersey. From Dr. Hal- lowell. Specimen, in spirits, of Mantis religiosa, from Caraccas. From Dr. Goodall, through Dr. Hallowell. A series of Iron ores, from Nova Scotia. From Prof. John- son. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Memoir on the Megatherium and other extinct gigantic quad- rupeds of the coast of Georgia; with observations on its geological features. By Wm. B. Hodgson. New York, 1846. From the Author. Ancient Egypt, her Monuments, History and Archeology, and other subjects connected with Hieroglyphical Lite- rature. By Geo. R. Gliddon. 10th edition, with an Ap- pendix. From the Author. A monograph of the fresh-water univalve Mollusca of the United States. By 8S. 8. Haldeman. Nos. 7 and 8. From the Author. Dr. A. L. Elwyn presented the following : Some account of the Siren lacertina and other species of the same genus of amphibious animals. (In a letter from Prof. Barton, of Philadelphia, to John Gottlob Schneider, of Saxony.) Philadelphia, 1821. Ueber die Bartmiindigen enzianarten, (Gentianz fauce bar bata) Von Dr. Nees von Esenbeck. Synopsis Specierum generis Asterum per baccarum, &e.— Auctore Chr. Godofred Nees ab Esenback, M. D. Er- langee, 1818. Nov., 1846.] 123 An account of a new method of making anatomical prepara- tions. By Joseph Swain. London, 1820. Facts and observations on liver complaints. By John Faith- born, M. D. Philadelphia, 1822. Mr. Cassin read a “Note on an instinct supposed to be possessed by the Herons, especially the genus Ardea, 1 which was referred to Messrs. Phillips, Harris and Gam- bel. Prof. Johnson announced to the Academy the decease of our late’ fellow member, Isaiah Lukens, Esq. After some very appropriate remarks on the character, high qualities and scientific attainments of the deceased, the following resolu- tions were submitted by him: Resolved, That this Academy has heard with deep regret the loss it has sustained in the demise of our late able and excellent associate, Isaiah Lukens, one of th2 earliest members of this institution. 5 Resolved, That through the whole period of its existence, this Academy has felt the beneficial influence of the personal worth of our late coadjutor, and of his firm, unwavering support of the interests of this institution; of his sound and discriminating judg- ment in various departments of science; of his constant devotion to knowledge and the useful arts, and of his sincere uncompromis- ing love of truth. Resolved, That the members of this Academy deeply sympa- thize with the relatives and friends of the deceased in the bereave- ment they have sustained by the death of our lamented associate ; that they recall with a melancholy pleasure the many happy and profitable hours which they have passed in his society; that they dwell with unmixed satisfaction on the memory of his free and generous spirit, ever ready to communicate of his abundant stores of useful knowledge, ever wise and liberal in his estimate of the labors and characters of others, ever modest and reserved in what concerned his own peculiar and distinguished merits. Resolved, That we cherish a deep sense of the value of that combination of intelligence with useful labor for which our ? 124 [Nov., 1846. departed friend was so signally characterized, and cannot with- hold the tribute of our admiration from that devotion to duty which found him, as his lamp of life was drawing to its last faint glimmer, still at his post, intent on the fulfilment of a professional service, while his dying breath expressed his gratitude for the privilege of having lived at a period when so much of truth and improvement had been developed in the world, and that in his day and generation he had been permitted to share in the many and yaried enjoyments which science and ingenuity had dif- fused. Resolved, That a member of the Academy be appointed to pre- pare a suitable memoir of our departed fellow member. Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing resolutions be communi- cated to the family of the deceased, with the heartfelt condolence of the Academy on this mournful occasion. The resolutions were unanimously adopted, and Prof. Johnson appointed to prepare the memoir. Meeting for Business, November 24, 1846. Vice PRESIDENT WETHERILL in the Chair. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The Committee on the following paper by Mr. Haldeman, reported in favor of publication. On several New Genera and Species of Insects. By 8S. 8. HALDEMAN. Whilst engaged in making dissections of the mouth of several species of Copris for the purpose of learning their true generic character, I was struck with the dissimilarity existing in the la- brum. I consider the European Copris /unaris as the type of the genus, because European naturalists have usually constructed the genera, and the type should be a species whose habits are well known. To prevent confusion, the author who subdivides Nov., 1846.] 125 an old genus, should ‘generally be allowed to decide what portion is to retain the old generic name. The rule which adopts as the type the species which stands first in an author’s work, is not applicable in all cases, because these were not always considered the type of the genus. An author might name a genus Gxo- TRUPES from the known habits of a European species, and com- mence his list with a large exotic species having entirely different habits, and not really congeneric with it. In such a case it would be obviously improper to consider the latter as the type of the genus GroTRuUPES. Moreover, instead of being the type, the initial species may have been thus placed from its resemblance to the preceding genus; and it is obvious that the animal which most nearly approaches another genus, cannot be the type of that to which it really belongs. 1. Bracuycopris. The type of this new genus is the well known Copris carolina. In Copris the labrum is subquadrate, rather widest anteriorly ; the anterior margin transverse, slightly emarginate, with a medial projecting appendicle, terior margins rounded. In Bracuico- PRIS the labrum is distantly triangular, widest at base, and much narrowed an- teriorly, where it is deeply emarginate, leaving a lateral aculeate process, the appendicle projecting from the base of the emargination, as represented in the figure. The basal articulation of the labial palpi is proportionally much larger than in Copris. This body is con- tracted in length; and in the type, the elytra are suleate and the tibie unarmed. Copris molossus would upon first view be placed nearer to C. carolina than to ©. dunaris, or the American C. anaglypticus, Say. Its labrum, however, associates it with these. Mr. Hope has made it the type of his genus Caruarsius. It has the labrum | more regular, more nearly quadrate, and the anterior half only of the medial solid portion is covered with hair, the posterior portion presenting a smooth furrow with a well defined margin. 2. Prionus jissicornis. General characters as in P. imbri- cornis. Blackish brown, antenne thick, imbricate, reaching the middle of the elytra, 25 articulate, canaliculate beneath by means of a deep emargination in the articulations, which are somewhat v-shaped when detached, the posterior branch the longer, with its apex incurved: prothorax with three lateral teeth. 11 lines long. For this interesting species I am indebted to my friend Dr. J. L. Le Conte, who found it near the Rocky mountains. It is re- 126 [Nov., 1846. markable for the emargination and number of the articulations of the antenn, which are more numerous than in any native species hitherto described. ‘The globular base of the second is not enu- merated; twenty-four are imbricate, and the final one has a small additional process rising out of its concavity. In P. ‘mbricornis the antenne of the male have nineteen, and of the female, seven- teen articulations. 3. SpHenosteruus. Allied to Prronus. Head small, narrower than the thorax, concave above; eyes slightly emarginate ante- riorly ; antennze less than half the entire length, slender and com- pressed, second articulation longest, subsequent ones gradually decreasing, with a tendeney to serration beneath; mandibles ro- bust, toothed; palpi with the terminal articulation triangular: prothorax transverse, narrower than the elytra, contracted ante- riorly, concave posteriorly, the external margins unarmed: pro and mesosternum conjointly carinate, in close contact, the latter entering an acute emargination of the former: scutel triangular: elytra separately rounded at base, moderately tapering and dehiscent; sides incurved, apex minutely serrate: feet slender. 4. §. serripennis. Shining black, punctate scabrous above; front with a wide depression having an impressed medial line; pro- notum with two approximate impressed punctures upon each side arranged diagonally, medial line visibly impressed poste- riorly; external margins convex, emarginate at the posterior angles ; posterior margin convex in the “centre and concave late- rally: elytra meeting the pronotum in close contact, a shallow scabrous impression at the base; apex finely serrate. Length 113; prothorax 2; elytra 8; width at base 4 lines. A single specimen taken in south-eastern Pennsylvania. An- other seen in Le Conte’s cabinet, probably taken in New York. Probably allied to Prronus muticus, Fabr. ii. 265. It is remarka- ble for the close contact of the prothorax with the elytra and scutel above and the mesosternum below. 5. MoLorcuus tenuipes. Black, frontal line deeply impressed : prothorax cylindric : elytra dark fuscous, obsoletely fulvous at base : medial and posterior feet very slender. 3 lines long. The larva inhabits detached Hianehos of the genus Carya, (hickory), the perfect insect appearing in May in S. E. Pennsyl- vania. 6. ENopLIuM venustum. Dark brown, with minute fulvous hairs: middle of the elytra with a broad irregular transverse silvery band. 42 lineslong. South-eastern Pennsylvania. Base and half the terminal articulation of the antenna, palpi, anterior tarsi, and base of the femora, pale yellow: pronotum tu- berculate: elytra with numerous dilated impressed punctures : apex pale yellowish brown, and with the base marked with a few small spots of yellow; the central white portion has several Nov., 1846.] 127 spots of black, and is bounded posteriorly by a black zigzag line, the black enlarging towards the suture; medial and posterior feet pale yellow; the femora with the middle and the tibie with the terminal half, brown. Apparently allied to E. bimaculatum, Mels., Proceed. Acad. 2, 307. According to Dr. Le Conte this is the venustum of Dejean’s Catalogue. 7. HereropromiA [Fam. Donaciade.] Body slender, punc- tate-scabrous: head advanced; eyes rather prominent, reticulate ; antenne J1-articulate, slender, longer than the head and pro- thorax, first articulation longer than the second and third, last fusiform: mandibles strong, short, incurved: palpi 3-articulate, final articulation subsecuriform, prothorax subelongate, narrowed behind: elytra subparallel, narrowing towards the apex, wider than the prothorax, conjointly rounded at tip: feet slender, sub- -elongate, posterior femora incrassate. 8. H. velox. Thickly punctured, hirsute, pale yellow; head, anterior margin of the prothorax, and seventh, (at the apex) eighth, ninth and tenth articulations of the antennz, black: elytra lineate punctate, with a tendency to fuscous behind the middle: abdo- men obscure fuscous, feet pale. 4} millim. long. Var. a. Having three transverse fuscous dots on the pronotum, and a large sutural fuscous spot at the base of the elytra. Found in May, upon grass and under stones and rubbish, in Pennsylvania, Carolina, Alabama and Ohio. It runs with great rapidity, and resembles some of the Carabide. The species de- scribed might at first view be taken for the DeMETRIAS atricapillus, Linn. 9. TRoaus nubilipennis. Fulvous; antennse, eyes, vertex, and five termina] segments of the abdomen, with half the preceding one, black: wings fuliginous, mottled with a few spots of yellow in the middle and at the base: mesosternum tipped with black : abdomen shining black beneath: inside of the base of the femora and trochanters blackish: tibia, tarsi, front and base of the an- tenne beneath, yellow. 11 lines long, expanse 19. About a year ago I sent a deseription and specimen abroad, which seems to differ from the present one, as the segment of the abdomen upon which the two colors meet is described with ‘‘ ma- culé longitudinali nigri in medio, et nigro-marginato;’’ and the wings ‘‘fuligine flavoque nubilatis.” There are a few minute white specks upon the alar nervures; one on the medial, a little within the small intercubital cell; one exterior to the same cell ; and two on the interdiscoidal nervure running from it. 10. IBALIA maculipennis g . Yellow ; meso-and metathorax black, except the scutel and two longitudival bands above, and a spot beneath the wings: eyes, apex of the antenne, base of the coxe, and middle of the femora, (the greater part of the posterior ones) ? 128 [Nov., 1846. black : posterior tibia blackish towards the apex: wings yellow, apex and a central spot fuliginous. 7 lines long, 11 expanse. South eastern Pennsylvania, in May and June. The following amendments to the By-Laws were adopted: Chap. V. Art. VI, to commence thus: “ The duty of the Librarian shall be to attend daily at the Hall from 11 o’clock, A. M., to 24, P. M., &e,” And to add to the same Chapter : Art. VIII. The Chairman of the Curators shall attend daily at the Hall from 23, P. M. until sunset, to perform the duties of his office. The following preamble and resolutions, offered by Dr. Morton, were adopted : Whereas, Dr. Thomas B. Wilson has made this institution the depository of his magnificent collection of Birds, which, from the number, beauty and variety of its specimens, al- ready ranks as the fourth extant; and Whereas, Dr. Wilson is assiduously extending and perfect- ing this collection for the interests of science and of this in- stitution ; and Whereas, The collection of the Academy is comparatively small and incomplete, and must continue to be so, inasmuch as the former incentive to increase it no longer exists, and also since two collections in Ornithology are unnecessary and inexpedient ; Therefore, Resolved, That the collection of birds now belonging to the Academy, be merged in the Wilson Col- lection. Resolved, That the galleries now occupied by the Orni- thological collection of the Academy, with such of the cases as may be required, be appropriated to the use of the joint collection. Resolved, That the Zoological Committee be authorized and instructed to carry into effect the foregoing resolutions. Duc., 1846.] 129 ELECTION. Mr. John Lambert, of Philadelphia, was elected a Member, and the following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy: J. W. Dawson, Esq., of Pictou, Nova Scotia. W. EH. Logan, Esq., Geologist of Canada. Richard Brown, Esq., of Sydney, Cape Breton. James Robb, Esq., of Frederickton, New Brunswick. Andreas Retzius, M. D., of Stockholm: Stated Meeting, December 1, 1846. VicE PResipENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Remarkably large and fine specimen of Sulphuret of Lead, or Galena, (weight exceeding 100 lbs.) crystallized in cubes from the mine of Mr. Sanders, near Galena, Illinois. Pre- sented by Mr. Alex. C. Davis, of Galena, through Richard D. Wood, Hsq., of Philadelphia. Mounted specimen of Tyrannus verticalis, Say, from New Jersey. Presented by Mr. Edward Harris. Scatella quinquefaria, from the Eocene of Georgia, anda number of Silurian fossils from Nova Scotia. From Prof. Johnson. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3, No. 1. From the Asso- - ciation. Transactions of the Linnean Society of London. Vol. xx., Part 1. 4to. London, 1846. Proceedings of the same; pp. 261 to 304. List of the Society for 1846. From the Society. Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London. Part xiii. 1845. Report of the Council and Auditors of the same for 1846. From the Society. 130 [Duc., 1846. Mr. Grant, of Philadelphia, read a paper containing ob- servations on Hybridity in Animals, which was referred to a committee, consisting of Messrs. Cassin, Phillips and Mor- ton. Stated Meeting, Dec. 8, 1846: Vicz PresIpENT Morton in the Chair. A communication was read from the Essex Co. (Mass.) Natural History Society, dated Dec. 1, 1846, acknowledg- ing the receipt of recent Nos. of the Society’s Proceedings. Dr. Hallowell read a description of the locality, near Platts- burg, New Jersey, whence the fossil bones of a young Mas- todon, presented at a late meeting of the Society, had been obtained by himself and other members. Dr. H. gave the following enumeration of the bones, for which the Academy is indebted to the liberality of Mr. Wil- liam Pancoast, the proprietor of the farm on which they were found. Kleven ribs nearly perfect, seven of which belong to the left side; one rib of same side much mutilated; two scapule imperfect ; a humerus, two feet three inches long (French measure) with the head separated from it; three cervical ver- tebree and six dorsal well preserved; one lumbar and four caudal vertebrae; two vertebral spinous processes; the ossa mmnominata, fractured, with the acetabula perfect, but the foramina thyroidea incomplete, and the ischia partly broken off; one patella; the head of the os femoris and upper portion of the shaft of the bone; a scaphoid and other small bones of the feet; with numerous undetermined frag- ments of bone. Besides these, there are two others, sup- posed to be the zygomatic processes of the temporal bones. The epiphyses are separated from the upper extremity of the os humeri and of the femur, which, with the size of the bones, indicate that they belonged to a young animal. Dec. 1846.] 131 The following resolutions, adopted at a meeting of the Zoological Committee, were presented by the Chairman of the Commmittee : Resolved, That in incorporating the Ornithological col- lection of the Academy with that of Dr. Wilson, the Zoolo- gical Committee will withdraw from exhibition such speci- mens, the property of the Academy, as shall be found dupli- cates in the joint collection. Resolved, That the duplicates be deposited in the north- east basement room. The resolutions were, on motion, approved. Stated Meeting, Dec. 15, 1846. Mr. Vaux in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A number of fine fossils, from the Silurian rocks of Columbia Co., Pennsylvania. Presented by Mr. H. 8. Stephens. Prof. Johnson presented from Miss Morris, of Germantown, numerous specimens of Cicada septemdecim, some of them in the living state. They had been recently found in that vicinity, firmly attached by the proboscis to the roots of fruit trees which had been gradually decaying for several years. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Fourth Bulletin of the National Institute. Feb. 1845 to Noy. 1846. Washington, D. C., 1846. From the Insti- tute. The following very valuable works were deposited by Dr. Thomas B. Wilson: Fauna Japonica ; auctore Ph. Fr. von Siebold. 18 fasciculi. Aves, Mammalia, Pisces. Elaborantibus C. J. Temminck, et N. H. Schlegel. Folio. Verhandelingen over de Naturlijke Geschiedenis der Ne- ? 132 [Deo., 1846. derlandsche overzeesche Bezittengen door de leden der Natuurkundige commissie in Oost-Indié en Andere Schrij- vers. Zoologie. 12 Nos. Folio. Systematische Uebersicht der Vigel Nord-Ost Afrikas. Von Dr. Ed. Riippell. 1 vol. 8vo. Frankfort Am. Main. 1845. Neue Wirbelthiere zu der Fauna yon Abyssinien gehdrig entdeckt und beschrieben von Dr. Ed. Riippell. 1 vol. 4to. Frankfort Am. Main, 1835-40. The Genera of Birds. By Geo. Robert Gray, F. L. 8. I- lustrated with about 550 plates, by David Wm. Mitchell, B. A. F. L.8., &. 28 parts, 4to. Iconographie Ornithologique. Nouveau recueil général de planches peintes d’Oiseaux: par O. des Murs. 3 Liys. 4to. The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. By John ~ James Audubon, and the Rev. John Bachman, D. D Ninety-three plates. Elephant folio. Dr. Leidy read a paper “On the situation of the olfactory sense in the terrestrial tribe of the gasteropodous molluscea,”’ which was referred to Mr. Phillips, Mr. Haldeman, and Dr. Morton. A letter was read from Dr. Zina Pitcher, dated Detroit, Michigan, Dec. 3, 1846, transmitting a Catalogue of Birds in the University of Michigan, and soliciting exchanges in seye- ral departments of Natural History. The following remarks by Miss Morris, communicated through Professor Johnson, fully explain the circumstances which led to, and accompanied the discovery of the larve of Cicada septendecim preying on the roots of fruit trees: I have, for a number of years, believed that the failure of fruit on trees over twenty years old, was mainly owing to the ravages of the larve of the Cicada septendecim, though Entomologists have heretofore considered them harmless, or nearly so, believing that the principal injury caused by them was received on the branches of the trees when depositing their eggs. But from the fact of their burrowing into the earth the moment of their escape Dec., 1846.] 133 from the eggs, and their living, as all acknowledge, on the sap of the roots of plants, I was led to think that the constant drain of sap required to nourish so many thousands of grubs, of from a quarter of an inch to an inch in length, must be more than a tree could live through, and yield good fruit. Iwas confirmed in this opinion by an experiment made by J. B. W., New York, and published in the November number of the Horticulturist, page 227. The method prescribed to renovate an outcast, is to dig a trench four feet wide and twenty inches deep, around the tree, leaving a ball of earth six feet in diameter, and then to fill the trench with rich earth and compost. The author states that the experiment succeeded, and that in three years the tree was in a flourishing condition, and yielded fine fruit. The writer attributes the change to the new and rich soil with which he supplied the tree. I argue, that on cutting off the larve of the Cicada, which he did when he cut off so large a portion of the roots, he removed the real disease, and the tree was then in a condition to take ad- vantage of the congenial soil placed around it; and new life was given to roots and branches. Under this impression, I superintended a similar experiment on a pear tree that had been declining for years, without any appa- rent cause, and agreeably to my expectations, I found the larve of the Cicada in countless numbers clinging to the roots of the tree, with their suckers piercing the bark, and so deep and firmly placed, that they remained hanging for half an hour after being removed from the earth. From aroota yard long, and about an inch in diameter, I gathered twenty-three larve; they were of various sizes, from a quarter of an inch to an inch in length. They were on all the roots that grew deeper than six inches below the surface. The roots were unhealthy, and bore the appearance of external injury from small punctures. On removing the outer coat of bark, this appearance increased, leaving no doubt as to the cause of the disease. The larve were enclosed in a compact cell of earth, with no outlet except that in immediate contact with the root, and as there were no galleries or holes leading from these cells, I infer that the grubs never leave the roots they first fasten on; which may account for the great difference of size; the small ones being starved specimens of the same brood: though I am inclined to believe that there are two species, differing sufficiently in size to ac- count for the discrepancy in the size of the larve now found. If noticed this difference in 1817, and again in 1854: the note of the smaller variety, or species, is much shriller than that of the larger, and will never be mistaken when noticed. The Cicado is too well known to need a description here; I will therefore only notice its habits as they have fallen under my own observation, and make a few extracts from an article published in 19 re 134 [Dnc., 1846. the National Gazette, and written by my brother, Mr. Thomas W. Morris, in 1834. The eggs require forty-two days to mature in the branches of the trees; they then burst the shell and appear, a minute but active fac simile of the parent in the larvae state, except the ab- sence of the wing cases; they require but a few moments to stretch their limbs and prepare for labor, before they unloose their hold on the twiggs on which they had been deposited, and fall to the ground, where they immediately disappear in search of food in the roots of the tree. If the eggs that are about to hatch be placed over a glass jar filled with earth, the young grubs will in a few hours after their escape from the eggs, be seen at the bot- tom of the jar endeavoring to force their way still deeper-—when first hatched they are quite white, but soon change to yellowish brown. They exist in separate tribes, occupying different sec- tions of country; making their appearance in different years, but invariably after the same interval of time. For a year or two before the arrival of the main body, a few scattered individuals are generally found. Mr. Morris thus describes them, as noticed by him at various times and places :— “In November, 1812, I found a large number of locust grubs under an old apple tree, between two and three feet below the surface, having every appearance of such as now issue from the ground, and nearly of the same size. On the 27th of June, 1815, I saw a portion of one of their countless tribes west of the Alle- ghany mountains, extending from the summit of the Chestnut ridge into the State of Ohio, beyond Steubenville ; occupying every shrub and tree except the pines, and the walnut, hickory, and some of the same family. On my return in the latter end of the following month, not an individual of the myriads which had oc- cupied that space was to be seen; the tops of the forests for up- wards of a hundred miles appeared as if scorched by fire. In 1832, just seventeen years after, I noticed a newspaper para- graph, which stated that the locust had appeared in that neigh- borhood in large numbers. The northern parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey were visited by them in 1826, when I had another opportunity of see- ing this extraordinary insect. On my way from Easton, through New Jersey to Milford in Pike county, Pennsylvania, I fell in with a very numerous body ; how far they extended, I was unable to learn, but they did not disappear from my route until after passing through a large part of Pike county, a distance by the road, of more than sixty miles from the place where I saw them on the 23d of May. Trees and shrubs are necessary as places of deposit for their eggs; consequently, though numerous in the State House Square, none were to be found in Washington Square, which in 1817 was destitute of trees.”’ Dec., 1846.] 135 Stated Meeting, Dec. 22, 1846. VicE PRESIDENT Mormon in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Very fine specimen of Nail-headed Calcareous spar, from Cumberland, England. Presented by Mr. George Thom- son, of Liverpool, through Mr. Samuel Ashmead. Dr. Morton deposited the following crania: Two natives of Madagascar, presented to him by Lt. Strain, U. 8. N.; a Negro, from Dr. Hardy, of Asheville, 8. C.; a Potawatomie, from Dr. Fussell; a Kanaka of the Sandwich Islands, from Lt. Strain, and an Australian Negro, from Dr. J. Wilton, of Gloucester, England. Dr. Hallowell exhibited a living Chemeleon, from Malaga, the property of Dr. C. W. Pennock. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Prodromo della Grande Anatomia ; seconda opera postuma di Paolo Mascagni, &c. Firenze, 1819. Folio. From Dr. P. B. Goddard. Chloris Boreali-Americana. Tlustrations of new, rare, or otherwise interesting North American plants, selected chiefly from those recently brought into cultivation at the Botanic garden of Harvard University. By Asa Gray, M.D. Decade 1°. 4to. Cambridge, 1846. From the Author. Contributions to the Bryology and Hepaticology of North America. By Wm. 8. Sullivant. Part 1. 4to. Cam- bridge, 1846. From the Author. Report of the season of 1846, with a table showing the flower- ing of fruit trees, the first opening, full flowering and ending of each, from 1837 to 1846, inclusive, &c. By Joseph - Barrat, M. D. Middleton, Ct. From the Author. 136 [Duc., 1846. Annual Meeting, Dec. 29, 1846. Vick PRESIDENT WETHERILL in the Chair. The Committee on the following communication by Dr. Leidy, reported in favor of publication. On the situation of the Olfactory sense in the terrestrial tribe of the Gasteropodous Mollusca. By Josrpn Lerpy, M. D. While no observer of the habits of the terrestrial Gasteropoda doubts the existence of the sense of smell in them, but on the con- trary, asserts positively that it does exist, the anatomist heretofore has not been able to point out its precise seat. Swammerdam, in his Biblia Natura, speaks decidedly of the ex- istence of this sense in the Helix pomatia, but offers no conjec- ture as to its situation. Blumenbach remarks, under the head of Vermes, ‘‘ Several animals of this class appear to have the sense of smelling, as many land snails (Helix pomatia, &c.,)” and after- wards adds, “ But the organ of this sense is hitherto unknown; perhaps it may be the stigma thoracicum.”” Cuvier in his Mémoir sur la Limace et le Colimacon, after remarking the delicacy of this sense, thinks it probable it may reside “‘ Dans la pean toute en- tiére, qui a beaucoup texture d’une membrane pituitaire.”’ In investigating the anatomy of this tribe of Gasteropodous Mollusca, I detected an organ which appeared to have been en- tirely neglected, or has escaped the notice of those who have dis- sected these animals. It is a depression or cul-de-sac, having its orifice beneath the mouth, between the inferior lip and the ante- rior extremity of the podal disk, and which in many species of dif- ferent genera is elongated backwards into a blind duct, more or less deep, occupying a situation just above the podal disk, within the visceral cavity. In Bulimus fasciatus it extends backwards as far as the tail, and is several times folded upon itself; in Glandina truncata it extends the length of the podal disk ; in the various species of Helix itis found from a superficial depression toa sac the length of the podal disk ; in Succinea obliqua it is of considerable length ; in Limax and Arion it is a superficial depression: in an undeter- mined species of Vaginula, hereafter to be described, I found it ‘half an inch in length, &ec. It is composed of two lamine; a delicate lining mucous mem- brane and an external layer, having a whitish or reddish glan- dular appearance. A large nerve, on each side, from the subeeso- phageal ganglia, is distributed to its commencement, besides which it receives numerous smaller branches along its course from the same ganglia. Its arterial supply is derived from the cephalic branch of the aorta. Dec., 1846.] 137 This organ, from its situation, relative size to the degree of perfection of the olfactive sense, as in the carnivorous Glandina truncata, &c., its structure, and nervous supply, I think, is the ol- factory organ.* The Committee on Mr. Cassin’s communication, read Nov. 17, 1846, reported in favor of publication. Note on an Instinct probably possessed by the Herons, (ARDEA, Linn.) By Joun Cassin. Several years since, I had an opportunity of observing the Great Heron (Ardea Herodias, Linn.) engaged in capturing fishes, and was much surprised at the singular facility with which he struck his prey beneath the surface of the water. This was done almost invariably by striking laterally and obliquely, very rarely vertically or nearly so, as fishes came within reach. It appeared to me at that time, and more recent observations have tended to confirm the impression, that this bird, and others which procure food in the same manner, must possess an instinc- tive knowledge of refraction. A moment’s consideration is sufficient to warrant the inference that this knowledge, if possessed at all, must be instinctive and transmitted from parent to offspring; for it is obvious that if every young bird should be obliged to acquire it, his risk of starv- ing during such apprenticeship would be imminent. My observations have not been sufficiently extended to fully justify a conclusion, but I have little doubt that the opinion here expressed is correct,—my object, however, is more especially to ask attention to this remarkable and hitherto unnoticed subject. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The Annual Report of the Treasurer was read and refer- red to the Auditors. The Annual Report of the Librarian was read and adopted. *Since writing the above, I have had an opportunity, through the kindness of Mr. Cassin, of examining a specimen of Helix poma- tia, from Europe, in which I find the organ in question existing as a fun- nel-shape depression beneath the mouth, and extending back wards along the podal disk for the distance of three-fourths of an inch. This I con- sider particularly interesting, as thesame species has been minutely dis- sected and described by Swammerdam, Cuvier, and others, without any reference whatever to this cul-de-sac. 138 [Dec., 1846. The Society then went into an election for Officers for the year 1847. The following result was reported by the Tellers: PRESIDENT. William Hembel. VICE PRESIDENTS, J. Price Wetherill. Samuel George Morton, M. D. CORRESPONDING SECRETARY. Walter R. Johnson. RECORDING SECRETARY. Theodore F. Moss. LIBRARIAN. Wm. S. Zantzinger, M. D. TREASURER. George W. Carpenter. CURATORS, Joseph Leidy, M. D, William 8. Vaux. Samuel Ashmead. John Cassin. AUDITORS. Robert Pearsall. Wm. S. Vaux. Robert Bridges, M. D. COMMITTEE OF PUBLICATION. Wm. 8, Vaux. Walter R. Johnson. Thomas B. Wilson, M, D. Samnel Ashmead. William Gambel, Dec., 1846.] 139 The following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy. Charles Hamilton Smith, Esq., of London. Thomas C. Eyton, Esq., do. George Robert Gray, Esq., do. Richard Kippist, Esq., do. M. E. Prisse, of Paris. The following Resolutions, offered by Dr. Bridges, were unanimously adopted. Resolved, That the thanks of the Academy be presented to the late Recording Secretary, Dr. W. 8. Zantzinger, for the ability and zeal with which he has performed the duties of that office for the past five years. Resolved, That the thanks of the Society be presented to the late Librarian, Dr. Joseph Leidy, for the able and faith- ful manner in which he has fulfilled the duties of his office for the past year. Lp ae = 2 i 4 c a i Pr < - mm g‘ ; “0 gdring ry f 7 —_ of - «? wiissil i) ate albiet. fin ) yor. wrel oh) 4 eae ae ihe a es 7 eae by Feet eae os mitt Phat fs eit. oe san tie dasa Lagat rei one a Lilvs id. wi alanier om, ‘ms s olf W mn “ caro hai zi q rte wo af * Say ph il ee rey f Ci cwtcthel! galBino i ae ¢ j 1 Pd ae 72 ina ame a _ ‘ 7 , 7 ee a0 Oi i 7M CLAIM: “ir? SER ES Ata r ’ bly hi ites a glia gh ot ae ae . £ jig tae it PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF HPEAD EE PH Fz. Vo. 3. JAN., AND FEB., 1847. No. 7. Stated Meeting, January 5, 1847. Vice PrestipENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Casts of the hand of Troglodytes niger, (Chimpanzeé), and of the inferior extremity of the radius of a fossil mammal obtained near Richmond, Va. From Dr. J. Wyman. Sternum of Oidemia perspicillata. From Mr. Woodhouse. Specimens in skin, of Putorius noveboracensis, from Bucks Co., Pa.; Sorex brevicaudatus, Say, and Vespertilio caro- linensis, Geof., from Chester Co., Pa.; and V. novebora- censis, L., from Newark, Del. From Dr. T. B. Wilson. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY, Annales des Mines. 4™° Serie, Tome viii. Livs. 5 and 6 de 1845. In exchange. . Twenty-sixth Report of the Council of the Leeds Philosophi- eal Society. Leeds: 1846. Fom the Society. Message of the President of the United States, communicating a Report of an Expedition by Lieut. Abert to the Upper Arkansas, and through the country of the Camanche In dians, in the autumn of 1845. From Col. Abert. 142 [Jan., 1847. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3, No. 8. From the Asso- ciation. Sound and Sanctified Scholarship; an Address delivered at the Dedication of the new edifice of the Western Univer- sity of Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 1846. By David H. Riddle, D. D. With introductory remarks by George Upfold, D. D. From the Author. Observations of the Magnetic dip at several positions, made in 1840, 1842, 1843, 1844 and 1845. By Major James D. Graham, U. 8. Topographical Engineer. (From the Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc., Vol. ix.) Philadelphia: 1846. From the Author. Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences of Boston. May 26 to Dec. 1, 1846, inclusive. From the Academy. Dr. Thomas B. Wilson deposited the following works : Tableau Encyclopédique et Methodique des trois régnes de la Nature. (Ornithologie.) Par Abbé Bonnaterre et L. P. Vieillot. 4 vols. 4to. A General System of Nature, &c. By Sir Charles Linné: translated by Wm. Turton, M. D. 7 vols. 8 vo. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. Ship Sulphur, under the command of Capt. Sir Edward Belcher, R. N., &e., during the years 1836 to 1842. Hdited and superintended by Richard Brinsley Hinds, Esq., Surgeon to the Expedi- tion. Vol. 1. 4to. London: 1844. A Monograph of the Anatide or Duck tribe. By T. C. Eyton, Esq., F. L. 8., &. 1 vol. 4to. London, 1838. Zoological Lectures delivered at the Royal Institution in 1806 and 1807. By George Shaw, M. D., F. R. 8. 2 vols. large 8vo. London: 1809. Atlas de Zoologie, ou Collection de 100 planches comprenant 257 fig. d’animaux nouveaux ou peu connues, classés d’apres la methode de M. de Blainville; avec une expli- cation par M. Paul Gervais. 1 vol. 8vo. Paris: 1844. Jan., 1847-] 143 A selection of the Birds of Brazil and Mexico. The draw- ings by William Swainson, Esq. 1 vol. Svo. London: 1841. Beitrage zur Naturgeschichte von Brazilien. Von Maxi- milian Prinzen zu Wied. - Reptilia, Aves, Mammalia, 5 vols. 8vo. Descriptiones Animalium que in itinere ad Maris Australis terras per annos 1772, 1773 and 1774 suscepto: collegit, observavit et deliniavit Joannes Reinoldus Forster, F.R.S. ; nunc demum edite auctoritate et impensis Academie Lit- terarum Regie Berolinze, curante Henrico Lichtenstein. 1 vol. 8vo. Berlin: 1844. Ornithological Dictionary of British Birds. By Col. G. Mon- tague, F. L. S. 2d edition: by James Rennie, F. L. S. 8vo. London: 1831. Journal of a Voyage to New South Wales; with sixty-five plates of nondescript Animals, Birds, and other natural productions. By John White, Esq., Surgeon to the Settle- ment. 1 vol. 4to. London: 1790. Letters were read : From Richard Brown, Esq., addressed to the Correspond- ing Secretary, dated Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, Dec. 9th, 1846, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent, The following extract from this letter is interesting : “T have visited Cranberry Head several times recently, and have made a section and drawings of the fossil trees there. The first tree near the Point is based upon a small seam of coal: lately a large piece of the cliff has fallen down, and part of the tree with some of the coal under it. Fortunately it has exposed two long roots—one branching to the North and the other to the South—about seven feet each way. They are very broad and flat, and are genuine Stigmaria. I could not trace any rootlets, but the areole are not to be mistaken. I have preserved some large pieces, as also some of the bark, of the tree, which is appa- rently an irregularly fluted Sigillaria. In a bed of Shale, some twenty feet lower in the section, I have also found several small upright trees, about eight inches diame- on 144 (Jan. 1847. ter, filled with soft shale, but havinga pith of beautiful bright coal, 14 inches in diameter, running up the middle: the bark is fluted; the roots, long fibres, something like the leaves or rootlets of Stigmaria.”’ From Wm. D. Breckenridge, Esq., dated Washington, Dec. 29, 1846, returning, with acknowledgments, a collection of ferns fromthe Berlin gardens, which had been Joaned him by permission of the Society for examination and comparison. From the Trustees of the Western University of Pennsyl- vania, dated Dec. 9, 1846, referring to the loss by fire Jately sustained by that Institution of its entire Museum and Li- brary, and asking for donations towards a renewal of the same, particularly the latter. Referred to the Library Com- mittee. Meeting for Business, January 26, 1847. Vice Presipent Morton in the Chair. The Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That the proposal of Mr. Henry Seybert to de- posit his valuable chemical apparatus in the Academy, to become ultimately the property of the Institution—unless withdrawn by himself during his life time—and subject to its Rules and By-Laws on this head, be accepted. The Society then proceeded to elect the usual Standing Committees for the year. The following result was reported by the Tellers : CommiTTEEs ror 1847. Geological and Mineralogical. J. Price Wetherill, W. R. Johnson, S. G. Morton, Samuel Ashmead, Wm. S. Vaux, Theodore EF. Moss, Lewis T. Germain. Jan., 1847.] 145 Zoological, J.S. Phillips, John Cassin, Edward Harris, J. K. Townsend, S. S. Haldeman, William Gambel, A. L. Heermann. Botanical. R. Bridges, R. E. Griffith, W. S. Zantzinger, Gavin Watson, R. Kilvington. Physics. Walter R. Johnson, John S, Phillips, Paul B. Goddard, Theodore F. Moss, Henry Seybert. Library. Robert Bridges, Robert Pearsall, Edward Hallowell, George W. Carpenter, S. B. Ashmead. Committee on Proceedings. S. G. Morton, Corresponding and John S. Phillips, Recording Secretaries, Wn. S. Zantzinger, ex-officio. Coleman Fisher, Jr., of Philadelphia, was elected a Mem- ber. And John P. Barratt, M. D., of Barrattsville, South Caro- lina, was elected a Correspondent. . 146 "CF es., 1847. Stated Meeting, February 2, 1847. Vice Preswwent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. The Curators exhibited a fine articulated skelton of a Bengal Tiger of very large size, and an extensive collection of hu- man and other crania, recently received from Dr. Huffnagle of Calcutta, and placed by him on deposit in the Society’s Cabinet. ; The collection embraces the following: Cranium of a native of South Australia: two crania of Hindoo fanatics, taken from the Temple of Juggernaut: cranium of an individual of a Brahmin caste: of an Affghan from the field of Jug- daullek : of a Chinese pirate: of a Malay pirate: of a Hin- dostanee: and several other human crania not labelled. Also, crania of the fellowing animals:—Crocodilus vul- garis, and Gavialis gangeticus, (both remarkably large and perfect specimens,) Trionyx Indicus, Sus scropha, Felis tigris (five specimens), Canis aureus (two spec.), C. fami- liaris (fox-hound and blood-hound, three spec.), Delphi- nus , Simia satyrus (young), Simia , Antilope —— (two spec.) &c., &. Mr. Cassin presented from Mr. Aaron Sharpless, of Chester county, Pennsylvania, two fine living specimens of a hybrid between Numida meleagris (Guinea fowl) and Meleagris galla-pavo (turkey), which had been hatched and raised on his farm. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. The characters of some new genera and species of composite from Texas. By Asa Gray, M. D., (from the Proceed. of Am. Acad. of Arts and Sciences, Dec. 1846.) From the Author. On the Origin of Continents. By James D. Dana, (from Fes., 1847.] °* 147 the Am. Journal of Sciences, vol. 8, 2d series.) From the Author. On Zoophytes. No. 38. By James D. Dana, (from the Am. Journ. of Science, vol. 3, 2d series.) From the Author. On three several Hurricanes of the Atlantic, and their rela- tions to the Northers of Mexico and Central America, with notices of other storms. By William C. Redfield. New Haven, 1846. From the Author. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Associa- tion of Pennsylvania College, vol. 8, No. 4. From the Association. Reécapitulation des Hybrides observes dans la famille des Anatidées. Par Edm. de Selys Longchamps. From the Author. Revue critique des Oiseaux d’ Europe, par le Docteur Schlegel. Extrait de la Revue Zoologique par la Societe Cuvierienne, Jan. 1845. From M. de Longchamps. A letter was read from James Robb, Esq., dated King’s College, Frederick, N. B., 9th Jan. 1847, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a correspondent. A paper by Mr. Haldeman, describing one new genus and several new species of insects, was read and referred to a committee consisting of Mr. Markland, Dr. Leidy and Dr. Zantzinger. Mr. Germain, of Burlington, read a paper entitled ‘“ A col- lation and statement of some of the effects of Electricity and | Galvanism, having seeming analogy to the purification and circulation of the blood,” which was referred to the following committee: Dr. Bridges, Prof. Johnson and Mr. Moss. 148 [Fxs., 1847. Stated Meeting, Feb. 16, 1847. Vicz Presipent Morron in the chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Sternum of Strix brachyotis, and the fangs of a molar tooth of Zeuglodon cetoides, Owen, cut transversely to exhibit its internal structure. From Dr. Joseph Leidy. Sternum of Aquila leucocephalus. From Mr. 8. W. Wood- house. Two specimens of Baculites ovatus, one of them ten inches in length; also a fine specimen of Ammonites Delawarensis with the cast of the same, and a specimen of A. placenta ; all obtained from the marl pit near Moorestown, N. J. Presented by Mr. Lewis T. Germain. Cranium of Zygzena malleus. From Dr, R. E. Griffith. Fine specimen of Apophyllite from Andreasberg, Upper Harz, Hanover. Presented by Mr. Moss. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Histoire Physique, Politique et Naturelle de I’ Ile de Cuba; par M. Ramon de la Sagra. Livs. 52, 53, 54. From Messrs. Wetherill, Morton, Phillips, Clay, Vaux and Elwyn. De Candolle’s Prodromus systematis naturalis regni vegeta- bilis. Parts 8,9 and 10. Purchased by Academy. Vermium terrestrium et fluviatilium seu animalium infusorio- rum, helminthicorum, et testaceorum non marinorum, suc- cincta historia. Auctore Othone Fréderico Miiller. Vol. 1, Part 1; and vol. 2, quarto. Hafnic, 1773 and 1774, From Dr. Paul B. Goddard. Hight additional pages of Dr. Gould’s description of Shells of the Exploring Expedition. From the Author. Mr. Gambel read a paper in continuation of his “ Remarks on the Birds of Upper California,’’ which was referred to the committee on the former portions. Frs., 1847.] 149 Dr. Morton read a notice by Mr. M. Tuomey, State Geolo- gist of South Carolina, of his discovery of the Cranium of Zeuglodon cetoides, Owen, in the vicinity of Charleston ; ac- companied with a drawing of the same. Referred to Dr. Morton, Mr. R. C. Taylor and Dr. Leidy. A letter was presented by Mr. Moss, addressed by Mr. Graf of St. Petersburg to Baron Wrangel, in relation to ex- changes of Birds between the latter and the Academy. Re- ferred to the Zoological committee. Mr. Gliddon presented a translation of the Hieroglyphical inscription on the Sarcophagus of the Egyptian Mummy now in the Academy. Meeting for Business, February 28, 1847. Vic— PRESIDENT WETHERILL in the Chair. The Committee to whom was referred Mr. Haldeman’s pa- per read on the 2d inst., reported in favor of publication. Descriptions of several new species and one new genus of Insects, By S. 8S. Hatpemay, A. M. BLETHISA guadricollis. Black, somewhat bronze; head elon- gate, transversely impressed behind the eyes, which are promi- nent; frontal impressions long and bisinuate, posteriorly connected with the transverse impression; labrum quadrate, slightly bisinu- _ ate anteriorly ; antenne steel blue, as long as the head and pro- thorax, four basal articulations glabrous. Prothorax quadrate, bitruncate, wider than the head, slightly rounded on the sides an- teriorly, and very slightly sinuated behind the middle; posterior angles rounded; margin depressed and reflexed; transverse im- pressions very deep, the anterior one in the are of a circle; dorsal line deep, transversely wrinkled, bi-abbreviated ; basal impressions deep, punctured, with an obtuse slightly elevated ridge near the margin. LElytra a little wider than the head, obtusely rounded behind; deeply punctate-striate, strize somewhat interrupted; 3d interstice with four or five large fovee; 5th with three fovex, the anterior one being behind the anterior one of the other range ; 6th with two fovez, one below the humerus, and one (sometimes He 150 [Fes., 1847. obsolete) towards the apex; margin subcupreous, with confused ranges of smaller punctures; legs steel blue; anterior femora ni: a very slight prominence in the female. 7} 1. long. 3 1. wide, Found by Mr. Joshua Child upon the Southern shore of Lake Superior. The elytra agree with those in B. multipunctata, Fad. and the thorax apparently with that of B. eschscholtzii. *CuorEA. Body short, robust, and of a rather solid consistency ; head small, deflected; maxillary palpi robust, prominent, last joint largest, and triangular; antenne short, serrate, not sensibly tapered, placed between the eyes and a little removed from them, which renders them approximate; they are inserted upon each side of a slight frontal elevation, and are borne parallel, arched over the thorax and extending a little beyond the scutel. Protho- rax short, transverse, inflated, anterior angles obtusely rounded, posterior ones produced in a sharp angle. Scutel rounded. Ely- tra elongate, texture solid, with wings beneath. Abdomen of five inflated segments. Feet slender, the posterior core very long, be- ing as long as the femur proper, which is much reduced in length, although the limb is of ordinary length. Tarsi with short hair, but searcely pulvillate; penultinate articulation bilobed. Probably a female. : A single individual taken upon the porch of my residence. It endeavored to liberate itself by a sharp click, which, with the shape of the prothorax, led me to suppose it an Elater. The click was produced by approximating the anterior femora along the breast and separating them with a sudden jerk which could be heard and felt, There is nothing apparent in the structure of the anterior feet to indicate this peculiar use of them. CuoreA pulsator. Dull black, minutely punctured, slightly hairy; palpi bright testaceous: tarsi and tibie dull rufous ; prono- tum covered with piliferous punctures, dorsal line not apparent ; elytra with nine strie filled with large elongate punctures. 4 I. long. Pennsylvania, in April. Epuria distincta. Flavescent, covered with a short whitish pubescence ; labrum fringed with fulvous hair; front imprest ; medial line of the head glabrous posteriorly; prothorax subcy- lindric, narrowed before, with an anterior and posterior transverse impression; sides armed with a short spine; disk on each side, a little before the middle, with a round black glabrous tubercle; elytra with a basal and medial pair of approximate stigmata, the former somewhat oblique, the latter with the interior one about half the length of the exterior. 10—12 lines long. Georgia and Mississippi. Distinguished from the more northern species E. 4-geminata Say, distincta Dejean, by a more dense pubescence, less globular protho- rax with its deeper lines and larger tubercles; and the shorter in- ternal posterior stigma. Fes., 1847. ] 151 ENAPHALODES simplicicollis. Dark brown, elytra somewhat paler from a short pubescence; prothorax subglobular, minutely granulate ; dorsal line slightly impressed posteriorly, a lateral ob- solete impression before the middle towards the exterior margin ; elytra sparsely and deeply punctured, bi-spinose at tip. 1121. long. Georgia. Distinguished from E. lecontei, Dejean, ( pulverulentum, Fabr., hitherto considered an Elaphidion by me) in having a smaller prothorax, a darker color, and in being less. For the opportunity to describe this and the next species of Longicornia, I am indebted to the kindness of my friend Dr. J. L. Le Conte, in whose cabinet they are. STENURA? cyanea. Brilliant metallic blue with greenish re- flexions: front impressed, antennz, mandibles, labrum, terminal joint of palpi, and scutel, black; elytra scabrous with confluent punctures ; femora rufous, apex and extreme base, with the tibie and tarsi, blackish. 6 1. long. Lake Superior. PLoIARIA maculata. Brown, superior wings pale grey with whitish reticulations, and maculate with brown, darkest towards the base, where there is a long conspicuous triangle with its apex ex- tending to the base; anterior edge of the wing with a single series of spots, apex with a semicircle of large ones. 2.1. long. Penn- sylvania, in July. The only specimen of this well marked species is imperfect, and although taken several years ago, a second individual has not been seen. The Committee on Mr. Tuomey’s paper read at last meet- ing, reported in favor of publication. Notice of the discovery of a Cranium of the ZEUGLODON. By M. Tuomey, State Geologist of South Carolina. Almost every day adds something to our knowledge of those remarkable forms, which in the revolutions of time have passed out of existence. In 18—, Dr. Harlan described and figured in the Transactions of the Geological Society of Pennsylvania, some fossil bones from Alabama, consisting of portions of the upper and lower maxille of an animal under the name of “ Basilosaurus,”’ from an impression that they belonged to a gigantic Saurian. An examination of the teeth, however, satisfied Professor Owen that these remains belonged to a Cetacean, to which he has given the name ‘ Zeuglodon.” .The first description of an entire tooth of this animal, was given by Mr. Buckley, in a concise account of the discovery of a consi- derable portion of the skeleton, published in the American Journal of Science in 1843. In 1845, Dr. R. W, Gibbes, of South Carolina, published in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences ? 152 {Furs., 1847. of Philadelphia, accurate figures of similar teeth with fragments of the lower maxilla. The teeth being hollow, and, in his opinion presenting other important differences, he constituted for them a new genus, ‘ Dorudon.”’ The “ Hydrarchos,” I believe, has passed away without advancing our knowledge upon this interesting subject, excepting perhaps that’ Prof. Wyman discovered in the extremity of the ribs some ceta- cean characters. The next important development consisted in the publication by Professor Emmons, in the American Quarterly Journal of Agricul- ture, beautiful figures of the teeth, anterior portion of lower max- ill, together with a portion of the ramus having the coronoid pro- cess and condyle almost perfect, cervical and caudal vertebre, and arib. But up to the present time, no notice has appeared of the discovery of any considerable portion of the cranium proper—for the mutilated head of the so called Hydrarchos can scarcely be con- sidered an exception. Early in January I was presented by F. 8. Holmes, Esq., with a portion of the left upper maxilla, containing one tooth and the alveole of several others, which he discovered in the Eocene beds of Ashley river, about ten miles from Charleston. Soon after, Prof. Lewis R. Gibbes, of the College of Charleston, visited the same lo- cality, and had the good fortune to find the rest of the scull, much fractured, but so carefully were the fragments collected, that with a little patience we were enabled to restore them to their proper places. It is then altogether to these gentlemen that we owe a knowledge of this valuable fossil. Description. Occipital bone somewhat semicircular, transversely flat or slightly concave, central portion thin ; a crest-like ridge sur- rounds the superior portion terminating in the suture with the tem- poral bone. Condyles two, articulating surfaces lunate, and almost enclosing the foramen magnum. Foramen magnum oval; trans- verse diameter 13 inches, vertical diameter 1 inch ; transverse pro- eesses thick, spreading, making the breadth of the base of the cra- nium equal to its diameter across the zygomatic processes ; jugular foramen } inch in diameter ; temporal bones small, mastoroid por- tion thick and strong but not prominent; articulating cavities for condyles of lower maxillz large, forming about 30° of a circle, in- clining inwards and backwards; maxille thick and strong, vertical section triangular; a cavity for nerves and vessels runs within at the points of the roots of the teeth; alveolar process thick ; palatal bone strong, anteriorly emarginate and horizontal, posteriorly de- scending below the alveolar process. Frontal bone and anterior portion of maxille wanting; walls of the nasal canal smooth; sutures squamous; in the left maxilla one tooth remains, which is solid, spear-shaped, edges coarsely ser- rate, exterior side flattened, interior side convex ; agreeing in this respect with the position of the teeth in the shark ; roots double, Fus., 1847.] 153 nearly parallel, and inserted obliquely backwards; in the right maxilla are the alveole for eight teeth with double roots. In the solidity of the teeth and slight divergency of the roots, this speci- men agrees with the figures of Dr. Harlan and Prof. Emmons. This fossil is particularly interesting, as it removes every doubt, if any remain, of the true character of the animal to which it be- longed. The double occipital condyle shows it to have been a mammal, while the squamous sutures and a symmetrical form refer it to the Cetacez. Dimensions. Length 144 in.; greatest breadth 74 in.; heicht 52 in.; length of enameled portion of tooth 3 in.; breadth g in. It was evidently a young individual. Geological position. The teeth described by Dr. Gibbes were found in the oldest of the calcareous beds of the Hocene of South Carolina, which contain Cardita planicosta and other well known Eocene fossils, together with Gryphea mutabilis and Terebratula harlant, which are also common to the cretaceous formation. And the fossil just described was found in upper beds of the Eocene so that the Zeuglodon must have existed through the whole of the Kocene period; a period which, in South Carolina, was at least sufficiently long for the deposition of three hundred fect of calea- reous and sedimentary matter; a fact which was ascertained by boring at Charleston. , 154 [Fex., 1847. Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California. By WitiiaAm GAMBEL. (Continued from page, 115.) PASSERES. Genus *CHAM&®A.+ Bill short, tapering to the point, acute and compressed. Both mandibles entire, ridge of upper elevated, and curving nearly from the base; the de- pression for the nostrils large, oval, and exposed; the nostrils opening be- neath a membrane in the depression. Wings very short and much rounded. Tail very long and graduated. Tarsus long. Chamea fasciata, Nobis. Ground Tit. Parus fasciatus, nobis, Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sc., vol. 2, p. 265. This interesting bird, placed provisionally among the Titmice, I have now made the type of a new genus, not being able, as yet, to find a suitable place for it, among those already described. For several months before discovering the bird, ] chased among the fields of dead mustard stalks, the weedy margins of streams, low thickets and bushy places, a continued, loud, crepitant, grating scold, which I took for that of some species of wren, but at last found to proceed from this Wren- Tit, if it might so be called. It is always difficult to be seen, and keeps in such places as I have described, close to the ground; eluding pursuit, by diving into the thickest bunches of weeds and tall grass, or tangled bushes, uttering its grating wren-like note whenever an approach is made towards it. But if quietly watched, it may be seen, when searching for insects, to mount the twigs and dried stalks of grass sideways, jerking its long tail, and keeping it erect like a wren, which, with its short wings, in such a position it so much resembles. At the same time uttering a very slow, monotonous, singing, chickadee note, like pee pee pee pee peep; at other times its notes are varied, and a slow whistling, continued pwit, pwit, pwit, pwit, pwit, pwit, may be heard. Again, in pleasant weather towards spring, I have heard them answering one another, sitting upon a low twig, and singing in a less solemn strain, not unlike a sparrow, a lively pit, pit, pit, imrrrrrrr, but if dis- turbed, at once resumining their grating scold. Parus inornatus, Nobis. Plain Titmouse. Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sc., vol. 2, p. 265. The Plain Titmouse I first discovered near Monterey on the 20th of November. It was actively flitting about among the evergreen oaks of the vicinity, in company with large flocks of the Chestnut-backed and Least Titmouse, all in restless activity, searching every branch for insects. Among the busy throng I could not well distinguish its notes, but they appeared to resemble very much those of the common Black-cap, and on my following it up, uttered a loud scold, erecting its high and pointed crest, and looking as angry as possible at the intrusion. ¢ From x22, on the ground. Fes., 1847.] 155 I afterwards found it common, frequenting in small flocks tall bushes and branches of small trees, uttering a weak and slender tsee day day, tsee day day dait. Parus montanus, Nobis. Rocky Mountain Titmouse. Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sc., vol. 1, p. 259. I have already stated all that I know of this new and handsome species, in the description contained in the number of the Proceedings above referred to, It was exceedingly abundant in the western ranges of the Rocky Moun- tains, particularly in the high ridges near the great salt lake, in the wooded portions of which they were roaming in large flocks, and from thence to the Californian ridge, on the other side of which I never sawthem. In habits, as well as appearance, it resembles very much the P. atricapilius, but is at once distinguished by the two white lines, running over the top of the head to the occiput. Parus rufescens, Towns. Chestnut-backed Titmouse. In the latter part of summer and during the winter season, the young of this species are found around Monterey in large flocks. Parus minimus, Towns. Least Titmouse. This interesting and most diminutive bird, is exceedingly abundant in the Rocky Mountains and California. During winter, the otherwise cheer- less woods, are alive with basy, noisy troops of these industrious birds, gleaning their scanty fare in company with the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, in every possible manner and position from bush or tree. Itis curious to watch them in this anxious solicitous search for food, keep- ing up a continual twittering; so intent are they in their employment, that they appear to lose sight of danger, and often have I been so surrounded by a flock, that I could have almost caught them in my hands. The above additional species, together with the P. septentrionalis, recently described by my friend Mr. Edward Harris, in the Proceedings of the Aca- demy, have increased the number of North American Titmice, exclusive of the Ground Tit, to nine species. Trichas Marylandica. Maryland Yellow Throat. This species, distributed throughout the whole of North America is com- mon, both in the Rocky Mountains and California. Vermivora celata, Say. Orange-crowned Warbler. Flocks of this species are common during winter in Upper California, frequenting low bushes and margins of streams. On the Island of Santa Catalina in early spring I heard its simple though lively song, commencing in a loud sweet shrill and ending tshé up, sometimes considerably varied, but.generally errrrrvr tshé up. Sylvicola Auduboni, Towns. Audubon’s Warbler. This handsome warbler is abundant throughout the West. I first ob- served it in New Mexico, thence through the ranges of the Rocky Mountains to California, where, particularly during winter, the young birds are found in large flocks, and generally in the tops of trees. Its habits as well as oe 156 [Fes., 1847. appearance they resemble the Yellow Rump, S. coronata, and like them also, display a great deal of familiarity, entering the towns, and resorting to gardens and fence rows, and even the corals of the houses; frequently also, descending to the ground with the Blackbirds and Sparrows. Sylvania pusilla. Wils. (Nutt.) Green Black-capped Flycatcher. Myiodyoctes Wilsonit, Aud. This pretty little Sylvan Flycatcher is common both in the Rocky Moun- tains and California. Culicivora cerulia, Lath. Blue-grey Flycatcher. Abundant in Upper California. Tyrannula pusilla. Swains. Little Pewee Flycatcher. I observed this species to be plentiful about the Pueblo delos Angeles in Upper California, where most probably they breed. During the month of April, it frequented the hedges of vineyards and neighboring trees, uttering a sweet and considerably varied song. The following description of an adult killed there in the spring, may be useful, to show that it is the same bird as that described by Swainson in the Arctic Zoology, and that found in Labrador by Audubon. Above greenish olive; wings and tail dusky brown, the coverts tipped with dull white, forming two bands on the wing; the tertiaries also broadly edged withthe same. Belowyellowish, brightest on the lower part of the throat and breast, and on the abdomen. Feet and legs bright lead-blue. A yellowish ring around the eye. Upper mandible black, the lower pale flesh colored; inside of both, orange. Tail even, 24 inches; wings 22 inches. Tarsus 8. Bill along ridge about 3, from angle of mouth §. Total length 5 inches. First quill a little shorter than the 6th ; 3rd and 4th nearly equal. The bird has a conspicuous crest. Tyrannula Saya, Bonap. Black-tailed Flycatcher. T. pallida, Swans. Syn. Bds. of Mexico. This species, common throughout the western regions of our country, is particularly so in California and the northern provinces of Mexico. Its manners much resemble those of the common Pewee, frequenting the neigh- borhood of towns, weedy hill sides and plains, darting from twig to twig after passing insects, jerking its tail,and merely uttering a single weak and singing chip, or an occasional guttural twitter, but very different from the harsh angry tshkip of the 7. nigricans, with which it ia so often associated. It breeds in California, and no doubt like its dark companion, about the houses and Missions, but I did not find its nest. Tyrannula nigricans, Swains. Black Pewee. This bird is abundant in California, and like our common Pewee is particu- larly fond of being near the habitations of man: with the utmost confidence, it is seen familiarly flying about the corals and gardens,and even the very doors; over which, on a projecting beam, about the middle of April, I found its nest. It was large for the size of the bird, and consisted of a solid round mason work Fes. 1847.] 157 of clay, intermixed with fibres of grass, &c., and lined with a thin layer of softer materials, blades of grass, fine strips of bark from the neighboring vineyard, and horsehair, and contained four eggs. This was the second nest which had been built that year; the first near the same place having been destroyed by the occupant of the house, this was commenced still nearer the door. I was informed that it was difficult to get them to leave the place they had once selected for their nest, and that if it were torn down they would at once commence forming another. The previous year three successive nests had been destroyed. These birds are constant residents ; and, as well as near the towns, are also distributed over the whole country, either in the margins of woods, or bushy plains, and almost always in pairs. They are very pugnacious, and are often seen fighting together in the air, and darting -after each other from branch to branch, at the same time ut- zing their peculiar loud and angry tship, which can always be recognized. From the arrangement of its colors, at a little distance, when sitting with their breasts towards you, they are easily mistaken for Snow birds. Tyrannus borealis, Swains. Olive-sided Flycatcher. T. Cooperii, Nutt. I found this species scatteringly in the Rocky Mountains: it is quite abundant in the Pine woods of Upper California, for which it appears te have a great partiality. Ia the latter part of July I killed the young, not yet fully fledged, in the pines near Monterey, where they must have bred. Tyrannus verticalis, Say. Arkansas Flycatcher. This tyrant is an abundant resident in California. Around the Pueblo de los Angeles it takes possession of the hedges of the vineyards, orchards and gardens; noisy, pugnacious, and ever on the alert, it sufferg no intru- sion upon its dominions ; Hawk, Raven, or Crow, not even its own species, are allowed to pass unmolested. For this reason it has acquired the name of Correcuerbo (Crow-chaser) by the inhabitants, who also gladly allow them full possession. Tyrannus crinitus ? A large species of Flycatcher, very much resembling the Great Crested, is not uncommon in California. My friend S. F. Baird, of Carlisle, Pa., is in possession of a specimen, and considering. i¢ distinct, it will soon be published in a paper he has prepared, upon the North American birds of this family. Near Monterey I have heard it uttering the payuwp note of the Great Crested, and at Santa Barbara they were breeding in the knot holes of the evergreen oaks in May. Ptilogonys Townsendii, Aud. Townsend’s Ptilogonys. This rare bird I frequently found in the Rocky Mountains of the interior of California. See Proceedings of the Academy for April, 1843. . Icteria viridis, Gmel. Yellow-breasted Chat. The Chat arrives in California about the middle of April, and resorts to the hedges of vineyards, gardens and bushy places, where no doubt it breeda. 22 158 [Fes. 1847. It is very extensively distributed on our continent, as I observed it also common along the coast of Peru. Vireo solitarius, Vieill. Solitary Vireo. During the latter part of summer and winter, the young birds of this species are abundant, frequenting low bushes and thickets, in small flocks, Descriptions of New Species of Coleoptera of the United States. By F. E. Mersnemer, M.D. (Continued from Vol. 3, page 66.) Crioceridz, Leach. Donacia, Fabr. 1. D. cuprea. Cupreous above; antennz and feet testaceous, the former with the third joint longer than the second; the latter with the posterior femora brown at tip. 3—341.long. Pennsylvania. Cupreous, tinged with bluish above: head sparsely greenish-ashy-pubes- cent, densely and very minutely rugose, with the frontal groove most fre- quently profound, sometimes obsolete; mouth, palpi and antenna, testa- ceous, the latter with the third joint distinctly longer than the second ; mandibles black: thorax subquadrate, hardly as long as wide, narrower behind than before; obsoletely and very distantly punctulate on the disk; confluently and very minutely rugose; a small oblong tubercle behind each anterior angle; medial line indistinct, sometimes wanting; basal margin rather transversely indented : elytra punctate-striate, the interstices densely and minutely rugose, with two obtuse and rather obsolete subsutural im- pressions ; humeral angles polished, almost impunctured ; apex obliquely truncate; beneath and sides of the head, dull silvery sericeous: feet dull testaceous, with the posterior femora in particular, brown at the posterior half, and obtusely toothed towards the tip. Var. a. Elytra golden-yellow. 2. D. indica. Black above; antenna, tibiz and tarsi dull rufous ; thorax quadri-tuberculate; elytra broad, rounded at apex. 41. long; 1} 1. wide. Pennsylvania. Donacia indica, Melsh. Catal. Black, glossy above: head with a slight bluish tinge, densely rugose- punctulate; frontal impressed line short, distinct; antenne short, dull rufous, with the basal joint entirely, and the apical half of the remaining joints, brown or black ; second joint almost as long as the third; mouth brownish-piceous: thorax distinctly longer than wide, not half as wide as the elytra, wider at apex than at base; above finely confluently rugose ; four small, obtuse, polished tubercles before the middle, placed in a trans- verse arcuated row, the two posterior or middle ones small, only dis- tinctly seen from an above view; medial impressed line fine, and not pro- found; anterior angles raised: scutellum ashy-brown-pubescent: elytra wide, comparatively short, transversely rugulose, punctate-striate, with the apex decurved and rounded; an obsolete subsutural depression: Fes., 1847. ] 159 beneath dusky silvery-sericeous, with the abdomen, as is common, pale or reddish brown; femora, excepting at base, blackish ; base of femora, tibie and tarsi dull rufous; posterior femora hardly toothed at tip. This isa very rare species. “T), metallica. Cupreous; antenne and feet rufous; second and third joints of the former equal.” Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc., v. 283, 2. Var.c. Blue; antenne and feet as in the type. 3. D. biimpressa. Cyaneous ; thorax with an orbiculate impression each side of the middle; elytra finely striate-punctate. 8 1. long; 1 1. wide. Pennsylvania. Cyaneous, with a violaceous or greenish reflection, shining: head dull silvery-sericeous, confluently rugose-punctulate, with the frontal line pro- foundly impressed ; antenn# moderately long, brown, with the base of the joints more or less dull rufous; second joint rather shorter than the third ; _ mouth and palpi brownish: thorax longer than wide, wider at apex than at base ; above tinted with greenish, finely, deeply and distantly punctured , medial line fine, more deeply impressed before the middle than towards the base ; a small, suborbiculate, profound impression each side and near the middle; lateral tubercle moderate, oblong; anterior angles slightly tuberculate : scutellum dull violaceous, minutely and densely punctured: elytra faintly tinted with violaceous, finely transversely wrinkled, finely striate-punctulate, sutural region obtusely indented in two or three places ; an oblique, rather obsolete, indentation from the humeral angles to the suture ; apex obliquely truncate, almost rounded : beneath blackish, densely punctulate, dull silvery-sericeous ; femora blackish or dark brown, with their base, tibie and tarsi, dull dark rufous; hind pair of femora with an obvious tooth towards the tip. This species is also very rare. Var. a. Elytra violaceous, sculpture rather stronger than in the type; thorax darker than the elytra, with the two dorsal impressions shallow and somewhat obscure; bases of the antennal joints more obviously rufous than in the type. Donacea violacea. Melsh. MS. 4. D. aurichalcea. Brassy-yellow, shining ; antennz with the third joint somewhat longer than the second; thorax distantly punctulate; femora brassy-brown. 31. long; 11. wide. Pennsylvania, Donacea aurichalcea, Melsh. MS. Brassy-yellow, shining: head, color and sculpture as in the preceding species; antenne moderately long, dull rufous, with the tips of the joints black; two basal joints almost black-brassy; second joint one-fourth shorter than the third: thorax longer than wide, wider at apex than at base ; above distantly punctulate, with the medial line fine, rather obsolete. lateral tubercle moderate, oblong; anterior angles slightly tuberculate x scutellum ashy-pubescent, minutely and densely punctured: elytra, apart of the color, entirely as in the preceding species: beneath dull silvery-seri- ceous; femora brassy-brown, shining, with the hind pair obviously toothed towards the tip; base of the femora, tibie and tarsi, dull rufous. Though the present species is destitute of the two thoracic impressions, so con- spicuous in diimpressa, it may nevertheless, perhaps, be a variety, if not the type, of that species. 6. D. rutila. Brassy-yellow, shining ; antennz testaceous, with the third 160 [Frs., 1847. joint longer than the second; thoraxlonger than wide, densely and very finely wrinkled. 3}1. long; 1} 1. wide. Brassy-yellow, tinted with golden: head brassy-brown, opake, confluently rugosely punctulate, with the frontal line long, deeply impressed ; labrum, palpi and antenna, rufo-testaceous; the first shining, impunctured; the last moderately long, slender, with the third joint distinctly longer than the second: thorax somewhat inequal, dull cupreous, longer than wide, wider at apex than at base, densely and finely rugose, with scattered im- pressed punctures ; medial line distinct, deeply impressed before and behind the middle; lateral tubercle moderate, oblong, obtuse; anterior angles slightly tuberculate ; scutellum plumbeous-sericeous, densely and minutely punctured ; elytra strongly tinted with golden, and with a faint violaceous reflection, punctate-striate, transversely rugose; the ordinary humeral and subsutural depressions faint ; truncate at apex: beneath dull silvery-seri- ceous; terminal abdominal segments rufous; femora brassy-brown, with their basal third, tibiz and tarsi, dull rufous; hind femora not toothed- Inhabits Pennsylvania. 6. D. nana. Brassy-yellow, tinted with green; antenne rufous, second and third joints subequal ; thorax longer than wide ; medial line profoundly impressed. 21. long; #1. wide. Pennsylvania. Head dull brassy-green, densely rugose-punctulate, equal, with the frontal impressed line distinct ; mouth rufo-piceous ; antenne ordinarily long, dark, dull rufous, with their tips blackish; basal joint brassy-brown, with the second joint hardly as long as the third: thorax decidedly longer than wide, obviously narrower at base than at apex; cupreous, finely rugose, with the disk polished and shining; medial line entire, wide and profound ; basal margin transversely impressed ; lateral tubercle obtuse, slightly ob- long; anterior angles very feebly tuberculate ; middle of anterior margin ordinarly elevated: scutellum plumbeous-sericeous ; elytra rather convex, brassy-yellow, strongly tinted with green, finely wrinkled, striate-punctate ; two slight, obtuse subsutural depressions ; apex rounded: beneath plum- beous-sericeous or brassy-brown ; feet brassy-brown, glossy, with the bases of the femora and tibie, dull rufous; hind pair of femora toothed. This species must be closely allied to pusilla, Say, but it differs from that species, according to Say’s description, in having the thorax decidedly less punctured than the head, and its middle profoundly grooved. “DP, guadricollis. Brassy-green; thorax with the impressed line and jateral tubercle, obsolete.” Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc. v. 282, 1. Var.a. Dull violaceous. ° Orsopacna, Latr. “Q, vittata. Black, punctured; elytra pale testaceous ; suture and outer margin black; feet rufous.” Say, Jour. Acad. ili. 430, Var. b. Entirely black. Donacia atra, Melsh. Catal. QO. tricolor. Head, thorax and feet rufous; elytra testaceous, with the suture and lateral submargin black. 3—41. long. Pennsylvania. Head rufous, with the vertex indeterminately black ; rugosely punctured ; clypeus sparsely punctured ; labrumimpunctured; antenne blackish, with 3 basal joints obsoletely rufous; joints 2-4th subequal; palpi and mandibles rufous, the latter with the tips black; eyes black: thorax slightly longer than Fup, 1847.] 161 wide, wider before the middle than at base, with the sides rounded from the posterior contraction to the anterior angles, which are also rounded : scutel - lum dull rufous: elytra testaceous, with the suture broadly black before the middle, and gradually narrowed to the suture towards the apex ; a broad similarly colored submarginal vitta, which attains neither the lateral edge nor the apex, towards which it is narrowed to a point; deeply and densely punctured ; two very narrow, longitudinal, almost impunctured lines in the middle: postpectus dusky ; abdomen, antepectus and femora, yellowish ru- fous; apical two-thirds of the tibie, tarsi and posterior margins of abdominal segments, dusky or black. Var. a. Black, with the thorax dusky rufous. “QO. Armeniaca, Knoch: punctate, black, feet fulvous, elytra with a testa- ceous vitta. Form and size of O. Cerasi.’ Germar Insect. Sp. Nove, p. 526. Var. a. Head and thorax dull rufous, the former with the vertex black- ish ; elytra testaceous, with the suture broadly reddish brown, a similarly colored submarginal vitta; beneath reddish-brown; feet paler. Var. b. Black, with the anterior part of the head and feet yellowish-tes- taceous ; a broad spot at base, and an abbreviated apical vitta at the suture, pale testaceous. Donacia4-notata, Melsh. Catal. Var.c. Entirely black. \ Hispide, Kirby. MicrorHopata, Chevr. M. porcata. Black; elytra with three raised lines, and three double and one triple series of profound punctures. 14—1_ 1. long. Hispa porcata and minuta, Melsh. Catal. Black; head with three longitudinal impressed lines ; antennz blackish, with a tinge of reddish brown: thorax rough, with large dilated punctures, sometimes with a narrow impunctured medial line: eiytra each with three longitudinal raised lines, and three double and one triple series of profound subquadrate punctures; sometimes a more or less obsolete raised line between the second and third lines, widely interrupted in the middle ; sutu- ral edges raised ; exterior edges entire; apex rounded: beneath black ; feet dull dark chestnut brown. Galerucide, Steph. Gateruca, Geoffr. G. femoralis. Black ; thorax, elytra, tibe and tarsi rufous or rufo-testa- ceous. 2} 1. long. Galeruca thoracica, Melsh. Catal. Head black, rugosely punctulate,with a polished transverse raised line be- tween the eyes, interrupted in the middle by a distinct impressed medial line; antenne —; labrum black, entire, rounded at apex : mandibles dull testaceous, dusky at tip; palpi blackish, dull testaceous at tip ; thorax rufo-testaceous, transverse, with the sides acutely rounded in the middle ; above with large profound, scattered punctures ; each side of the middle with a wide dusky in- dentation ; medial groove obvious behind the anterior margin and before the posterior one, dusky like the two indentations; scutellum blackish or piceous- a 162 [Feb., 1847. brown ; elytra color of the thorax, widest behind the middle, rather numer- ously and deeply punctured, and like the thorax glabrous; beneath and femora, black; pleurm, epipleur, tibizw and tarsi, testaceous. Very rare. ““G. atripennis. Black; thorax rufous, with twoimpressed spots; venter pale yellowish rufous.” Say, Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc. iii. 461. Var. a. Testaceous ; antenne and eyes black; scutellum, tibia and tarsi, dusky. (faleruca paleacea, Melsh. MS. Referable to the genus Lwuperus, Geoffr. Catomicrus, Dillwyn. C. thoracicus. Black; thorax and feet testaceous-yellow. 21. long. Penn- sylvania. Crioceris thoracica, Melsh. Catal. Head deep black, with the clypeus dusky-piceous; very minutely punc- tured; a short longitudinal impressed line between the eyes, interrupted by a short transverse one; antenne black or dark brown, more than half the length of the body, with the joints elongated ; second and third joints short- est, equal; palpi black, piceous, with the tips dusky; labium and gula, tes- taceous; thorax transverse, testaceous-yellow, hardly punctulate, with the sides obtusely rounded; anterior edge truncate; posterior one obtusely rounded; an obtuse indentation each side ofthe middle, very faintly defined : scutel black ; elytra oblong, with the sides parallel; deep black, shining, glabrous, obsoletely rugulose and punctured, punctures minute and distant ; apex rounded: postpectus and abdomen, black; antepectus and feet, testa- ceous-yellow. (ipionycuis, Latr. 1. GE. fallax. Black; thorax with the limb, and elytra with the lateral margins and a broad vitta, red. 2—2}1. long; 14—1}1. wide. Pennsyl- vania. Short-ovate, black, densely punctured: head very dark dull red, almost black, coarsely punctured, with a longitudinal impressed line between the antenne, which are short, black, with the fourth joint slightly longest: thorax finely wrinkled, and somemhat distantly punctulate, with the limb red; and the disk transversely brown or dull reddish brown: scutel black, finely rugose-punctured : elytra rugulose, and with numerous small, pro- found punctures ; black, each elytrum with the lateral margin and a broad medial vitta, red, margin and vitta united at tip: beneath and feet, black- piceous ; pleurz and epipleure, red; posterior femora much incrassated. It may be necessary to add to the foregoing description that the red color soon after death changes into a dirty testaceous, and that, most frequently, there i3 an indentation, more or less obvious, each side of the middle behind the anterior margin of the thorax, This species must be closely allied to mini- ata, Fabr. 2. &. limbalis. Brown-piceous; basal joints of the antennz, lateral mar- gins and apex of the elytra, and the two anterior pairs of feet, dull testaceous. 13—2.1. long. Pennsylvania. Flat, ovate, brown-piceous : head with a few minute scattered punctures ; a profound transverse impressed line between the eyes, intersected in the middle by an obsolete longitudinal one ; eyes deep black ; antenn& fuscous, with the six first joints dull testaceous ; palpi and two anterior pairs of feet, dull tes- Frs., 1847.] 165 taceous : thorax impunctured, with the lateral margins clearer than the disk, and rather broadly depressed: scutellum impunctured: elytra punctured, punctures numerous, small, profound, and rather regular and equidistant : lateral margins and apex indeterminately and broadly dull testaceous: be- neath brown or blackish-piceous ; pleure and epipleure, dull testaceous ; posterior femora rufo-piceous. Closely allied to quercata, Fabr., which it much resembles ; that species, however, has the thorax always testaceous, and the testaceous color of the lateral margins of the elytra is ever clearly limited, which is never the case in limbalis. 2. CH. scalaris. Testaceous; three common fasciz of the elytra black. 21. long. Pennsylvania. Attica nitidula, Melsh. Catal. SP SCL tS ame eal OMS. Flattish, oval, testaceous above; head testaceous, sculptured as in the pre- ceding species; eyes deep black; antennz fuscous, with three basal joints tes- taceous ; palpi, feet and antepectus, testaceous ; thorax impunctured with the lateral margins rather broad and concavous : scutellum black-piceous: elytra punctured and rugulose, punctures minute and obsolete; three common, broad irregular, black fasciz, confluent on the suture, and of which none attains the lateral edges : the front and broadest band is located immediately behind the basal edge, the intermediate and longest one on the middle, and the posterior and rather shortest band is placed before the apex : abdomen and postpectus reddish-brown-piceous: posterior femora strongly incrassated. Closely al- lied to sexmaculata, Illig. Pacuyonycuus, Chevr. P.? paradorus. Pale rufous: lateral two-thirds of the elytra and an- tenne blackish. 14—131. long. Pennsylvania. Form altogether that of a Lema, Fabr. Head with a few minute scattered punctures : a short impressed cross between the eyes ; antenn@ rather robust, and somewhat more than half the length of the body, blackish or dark reddish- brown, with three basal joints rufous: second and third joints short, subequai, together not much longer than the fourth: palpi color of the head: thorax like the head, pale rufous, glossy, transverse, much narrower than the elytra, trun- cate before and behiné, with the sides feebly rounded, towards the hind angles more strongly: finely margined: angles,each with a small mammiform tubercle, from each of which arises a single hair: sparsely punctured: transverse basal groove entire, punctured : scutellum color of the thorax, impunctured: elytra oblong-quadrate, with the apex rounded: punctate-striate: interstices min- utely and distantly punctured: black, or dark-reddish-brown, with the su- tural third rufous: sometimes the apex the same: beneath and feet color of the thorax: posterior femora ordinarily incrassated: penultimate tarsal joint strongly bilobed : posterior nails inflated. Disonycua, Chevr. D. abbreviata. Pale fulvous : eyes, antennne, three elytral vitte, exterior edge of the tibiz and tarsi black. 341. long: 131. wide. Pennsylvania. Ovate, testaceous, tinged with fulvous: head with scattered minute punc- - 164 [Fes., 1847. tures: three profound round impressions between the eyes placed triangularly: antenne robust, half the length of the body, black, with the basal joint rufous: mandibles with the tips black; thorax impunctured, each side of the middle with a small, round indentation ; scutellum impunctured: elytra distinctly widest behind the middle: much, finely, and profoundly punctured : each ely- trum with a broad vitta, and a common sutvral one, black, bands equidistantly abbreviated before the apex: feet color of the body: outer edge of the tibia blackish: tarsi dusky: posterior femora moderately incrassated: claws simple. GrapropeRA, Chevr. G. kalmie. Golden-cupreous above: antenn# and beneath black, 141. long. Pennsylvania. Attica Kalmie, Melsh. MS. Oblong: bead golden-green, polished, hardly punctulate: eyes palpi and an- tenn, deep black, the last with the two first joints metallic : mouth piceous: thorax color of the head, highly polished: disk impunctured; transverse basal groove profound, entire: scutellum small, black-cupreous: elytra golden cu- preous, shining, punctured, punctures placed in irregular series, and rather obsolete towards the apex; beneath dark-cupreous: tibiw# and tarsi fus- cous: femora cupreous, glossy, the anterior pair almost black. Var. a. Head and thorax color of the elytra, with the abdomen black- cupreous. Attica cuprea, Melsh. Catal. This species is found on the Laurel, (Kalmia latifolia and glauca) and other plants. Systena, Chevr. S.blanda. Testaceous: beneath and antennze black: elytra with a sutural vitta and lateral margins, reddish-brown. 11.long. Pennsylvania. Elongate ; head dull rufous, glossy, a few punctures near and between the eyes ; labrum, eyes and last joint of the palpi,deep black; antennz slender, nearly half the length of the body, blackish or brown, with the base of the first joint testaceous ; thorax pale testaceous, with the lateral margins more or less blackish or dusky ; sides slightly rounded ; surface with a few obso- lete punctures ; scutel reddish-brown piceous; elytra minutely and rather distantly punctured ; testaceous, with a common sutural vitta and a lateral one, reddish-brown, more or less obvious; beneath black-piceous ; pleura, epipleure and feet, dull testaceous. CREPIDODERA, Chevr. 1. C. violacea. Dark violaceous above ; antennz, palpi and feet, yellow- testaceous. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Altica Du Chou, Melsh. Catal. Oval, violaceous, with a green reflection, shining ; head impunctured, very glossy, with the clypeus and inner margins of the eyes green: antenne half the length of the body, yellowish ; labrum, mouth, palpi and feet, color of the antenne ; thorax transverse-quadrate, with the sides feebly rounded ; above very minutely and remotely punctured; a distinct transverse basal groove, re- fracted at each end; scutellum dark violaceous ; elytra striate-punctate; be- neath black; posterior femora brown-piceous. Not the Altise Du Chou. Fes., 1847.] 165 Var. a. Above purple-violaceous. Sometimes this variety has the face entirely green, the thorax rather rugulose, and the lateral margin green. Var. b, Like the type, but with large and remote punctures on the thorax. Var. c. Smaller than the type, brilliant brassy ; head brassy-green, shin- ing; thorax with large remote punctures, edges green; elytra indented behind the base towards the suture; lateral edges green ; antenne, feet and beneath, as in the type; posterior femora slightly dusky in the middle. Altica opima, Melsh. MS. This may prove to be a distinct species. C. violacea resembles H. nana, Say, but that species is more slender, and the sides of the elytra more parallel. 2. C. erythropus. Black; head, antennae, thorax and feet, rufous. 1% 1. long. Pennsylvania. Altica rufipes, Melsh. Catal. “ erythropus “ MS. Oblong-subquadrate: head rufous, glossy, impunctured; antenne and tho- rax color of the head ; eyes blackish; thorax rather convex, glossy, impunc- tured ; sides slightly rounded ; base with a transverse groove, refracted at the ends scutellum rufous; elytra black, punctate-striate, the interstices slightly convex ; abdomen black: antepectus and feet rufous; epipleure dull rufous. 3. C. fusco-enea. Dark brown brassy; antenne and feet rufous; thorax with an entire basal groove. 141.long. Pennsylvania. Oblong, brassy brown or blackish, glossy; head impunctured; labrum piceous; palpi dull rufous; antennz rufous, with the second and third joints subequal ; thorax narrower than the elytra, moderately convex, with sides slightly rounded; impunctured, each side of the middle a small obsolete indentation ; transverse basal groove entire; elytra finely and distantly punctured ; sides obtusely arcuated, with the greatest width about the middle; beneath black, or dark brown, glossy ; feet rufous; posterior fe- mora sometimes rufo-piceous. 4. C. hirtipennis. Black ; head and thorax rufous; elytra testaceous, hir- sute, punctate-striate. %1. long. Pennsylvania. Head rufous, minutely and obscurely punctured; eyes black ; antennz tes- taceous, with the second, third and fourth joints short, subequal, the second thickened ; palpi black; thorax rufous, transverse, moderately convex, with the sides feebly rounded; densely punctulate; transverse basal groove slight, entire ; elytra dull testaceous, moderately convex; sides slightly arcuated ; deeply punctate striate, punctures furnishing short, whitish sete, frequently with a common, obsolete, dusky fascia on the middle; abdomen and post- pectus blackish ; antepe .us and feet, pale rufous; posterior femora some- times dusky. 5. C. atriventris. Dull rufous ; abdomen and postpectus blackish; elytra striate-punctate. $1. long. Pennsylvania. Short-ovate, dull rufous, glossy; head impunctured ; palpi with the last joint dusky; antenne slender, testaceous;eyes black; thorax short transverse, narrower than the elytra, with the sides feebly rounded; moderately convex; very minutely punctured; transverse groove profound, refracted at both ends; elytra convex, striate-punctate; punctures obsolete towards the apex ; sides arcuated ; beneath blackish, or dark reddish brown; feet testaceous. 166 [Fep., 1847. Psytuiopes, Latr. P. punctulata. Brassy black; thora: much and finely punctured; elytra striate-punctate ; tibia and tarsi pale brown. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Form of s¢riolata, Illig. Brassy black ; head impunctured, rather opake ; palpi dull testaceous; antenne slender, fuscous, the three basal joints tes- taceous ; 10-jointed ; thorax slightly wider at base than at apex, with the sides feebly rounded; finely and rather densely punctured ; scutellum mi- nute ; elytra narrowed behind and before, striate-punctate, the punctures small; beneath and femora, blackish-piceous ; tibi# and tarsi, dull pale brown, the former dusky towards their tips; posterior femora much in- crassated ; posterior tarsi inserted before the apex of the tibia. ApuTHona, Cheyr. A. rubicunda. Ferruginous ; eyes and suture of the elytra blackish. 1 l. long. Pennsylvania. Altica rubicunda, Melsh. Catal. Oblong, ferruginous ; head impunctured, glossy, darker than the thorax, labrum piceous; palpi black ; eyes blackish ; antenne color of the thorax, four or five terminal joints dusky; thorax narrower than the elytra, trans- verse-quadrate, with the sides feebly rounded; minutely and distantly punctured; each side of the middle with a small, obsolete, subbasal in- dentation : scutellum piceous ; elytra rather convex with the sides arcua- ted ; rugulose, minutely and distantly punctured, with the punctures rather equidistant ; suture indeterminately blackish; beneath and feet, color of the elytra and thorax ; posterior tarsi . Perhaps referable to the ge- nus Zhyamis, Stephens. Tuyamis, Steph. 1. T. melanura. Fuscous; basal joints of the antenne and four anterior feet, dull testaceous. 1}1.long. Pennsylvania. Altica melanura, Melsh. Catal. Oblong-subovate, dull reddish-brown, glossy ; head impunctured, pitchy- blackish, tinged with rufous; palpi and eyes black, the first piceous; an- tenne fuscous, with the three first joints testaceous or dull rufous; thorax narrower than the elytra, transverse-subquadrate, the sides slightly round- ed; minutely rugose: scutellum piceous; elytra finely and distantly punc- tured and rugulose ; rather convex, with the sides hardly arcuated except behind the middle; beneath blackish or dark reddish-brown; four ante- rior feet testaceous; posterior femora pitchy-brown, with their tarsi dull testaceous, their tibia sometimes of the same color; first joint of the pos- terior tarsi half the length of the tibie. 2. T. testacea. Testaceous; beneath dull pale reddish-brown; antenne long. #1. long. Ovate, above testaceous: head impunctured, shining; eyes and ter- minal joint of the palpi, black; labrum piceous; antenne long, slen- der, testaceous, with the terminal joints dusky; second and third joints, as in the preceding species, almost equal; thorax narrower than the elytra, subquadrate, with the sides slightly, and basal edge obtusely, rounded ; very minutely punctured; scutellum, color of the elytra, which are rather paler than the thorax; rugulose, finely and distantly punctured; sides arcuated; moderately convex; beneath dull reddish- Fes., 1847.] 167 brown; feet pale testaceous ; posterior tibia very slender; posterior tarsi half the length of their tibie. Found in Pennsylvania. Disorrs, Latr. D. erea. Green above; antenna, tibie and tarsi, testaceous. 111. long. Pennsylvania. Altica erea, Melsh. Catal. Oblong-ovate, green and slightly brassy above, shining; head retracted ; labrum, mouth, palpi and antenne, testaceous, or rufo-testaceous ; thorax obsoletely and distinctly punctulate; sometimes almost blackish: elytra finely striate-punctate, with the punctures obsolete towards the apex: be- neath and posterior femora, black, shining; abdomen sometimes reddish- brown ; four anterior feet testaceous, or rufo-testaceous, their femora some- times dusky ; posterior tibie and tarsi color of the anterior one. CuzTocnema, Steph. 1. C. minuta. Brassy-black above; basal joints of the antenne tawny- testaceous ; elytra punctate-striate. %1.long. Pennsylvania. Altica minuta, Melsh. MS. Ovate, brassy-black above, shining: head minutely and confertly punc- tured; rather opake; labrum and palpi, black, glossy ; antenne short, dark fuscous, with two or three, and sometimes four basal joints dull or tawny- testaceous; thorax very minutely and rather distinctly punctured; trans- verse, convex, with the sides and base obtusely rounded: elytra convex, with the sides arcuated ; strongly punctate-striate ; exterior interstices con- vex: beneath blackish, slightly brassy, distinctly and remotely punctured ; femora brassy-black; tibie and tarsi dull or dusky testaceous, sometimes the apical half the tibie blackish. 2. C. semichalchea. Head and thorax brassy-black; elytra black, punc- tate-striate ; basal joints of the antenne, tibie and tarsi, dull testaceous. #1. long. Pennsylvania. Ovate, glossy: head brassy-black, with a few, small, scattered punctures between and near the eyes; labrum and palpi, dark dull reddish-brown ; antennz fuscous, with four basal joints testaceous; thorax brassy-brown or blackish, transverse, moderately convex, with the base obtusely rounded ; the sides almost straight; finely wrinkled, and rather densely punctulate ; elytra black, punctate-striate ; the exterior interstices convex; sides arcu- ated; moderately convex; beneath black, with the apical segments of the abdomen rugose-punctured ; femora blackish or dark reddish-brown, glossy; tibiz and tarsi, dull testaceous. 3. C. pulicaria. Head and thorax brassy-black; elytra black, with a green tinge, punctate-striate ; basal joints of the antenna, tibie and tarsi, testaceous. 41. long. Pennsylvania. Altica pulicaria, Melsh. Catal. Ovate ; head brassy-black, hardly punctulate, opake ; labrum and palpi, dull rufo-testaceous; antennz rather long, slender, fuscous, with four basal joints testaceous ; thorax color of the head, transverse, with the sides slightly rounded; moderately convex, scarcely punctulate; elytra black, 168 [Fer., 1847. tinted with green; moderately convex; punctate-striate; outer interstices convex; sides arcuated; beneath blackish, sparsely punctured; femora chestnut-brown; tibia and tarsi, dull testaceous or rufous. SpHmRopERMA, Steph. S.? msolita. Rust-red, shining; tip and basal joints of the antenna, tes- taceous; thorax narrow: elytra broad. $1. long. Pennsylvania. Light ferruginous shining; head impunctured; tips of the palpi black; antenne moderate, slightly thickened towards the apex, with the two apical joints testaceous, the four preceding black, and the five basal one® testaceous ; second, third and fourth joints short, subequal, the second thickened ; thorax much narrower than the elytra, transverse, convex, with the base and sides obtusely rounded; impunctured and highly polished : slytra broad, subquadrate, convex, highly polished, with effaced series of very minute punctures; humeral angles prominent: beneath color of the elytra ; feet paler; posterior femora moderately incrassated ; posterior tibie simple, with a small spur at tip; penultimate tarsal joint strongly bilobed. This insect possesses entirely the form of a Eumolpus and though a true Haitica Geoffr., it cannot remain in the subgenus Spheroderma, Steph. Chrysomelide, Leach. Meracuroma, Chevr. 1. M. throacicus. Dull rufous; elytra black, punctate-striate. 1 2-5ths 1, long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus thoracicus, Meish. Catal. Dull dark rufous : head finely punctured ; a longitudinal impressed frontal line, not crossing a transverse line between the eyes, both lines sometimes obsolete ; palpi and antennz paler than the head, the last with the five ter- minal joints subequal, larger than the preceding ones; eyes black: thorax glossy, minutely and distinctly punctured; an obsolete indentation each side towards the posterior angles; scutellum rufous, impunctured; elytra black, tinted with rufous, particularly towards the apex ; punctate-striate, less deeply towards the apex; humeral tubercles impunctured: beneath dusky rufous; feet paler. Closely allied to canellus, Fabr. Var. a. Rufous; elytra slightly tinted with black. 2. M. melanura. Black; head, antenne, apex of the elytra and tarsi, dull rufous. 1 3-5ths1. long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus melanura, Melsh. MS. Black : head dull rufous, densely punctulate ; longitudinal impressed line obsolete, transverse line between the eyes angulate, distinct; mouth, palpi and antenne, rufous, the last formed as in the preceding species; thorax black, with the anterior edge obsoletely piceous ; glossy, very finely and distantly punctured; scutellum dull rufous, impunctured: elytra black, with the basal edge, humeral tubercles and apical third, dull pale rufous ; punctate-striate, punctures and strize obsolete or almost absent towards the apex; beneath, femora and tibie, deep black; knees and tarsi, dull rufous. Size and form entirely of 4-notata, Say, of which it may prove a variety. Fes., 1847.] 169 Evumotrts, Fabr. 1. E. longipes. Fuseous, clothed with a dense ashy-pubescence; feet long, 21. long. Pennsylvania. Brown, densely ashy-pubescent: head dark brown, densely and deeply punctured, ashy-pubescent ; a longitudinal impressed frontal line: labrum piceous: antenne slender, long, rather filiform, fuscous, with three or four basal joints testaceous ; eyes deep black ; palpi dull testaceous : thoraxlonger than wide, much narrower than the elytra, slightly wider behind than before, subcylindric, with the sides obtusely rounded ; densely and profundly punc- tured: scutellum small, densely ashy-pubescent: elytra with shallow punc- tured strie, punctures close-set ; interstices transversely wrinkled, minutely punctured ; outer basal angles prominent; apex rounded; beneath and feet blackish-brown, ashy-sericeous or finely ashy-pubescent ; the feet more than ordinary long; posterior and intermediate femora at base, testaceous. 2. E. villosulus. Ferruginous, pubescent ; antenne, palpi and feet, testa- ceous-yellow. 141. long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus villosus, Melsh. Catal. Ferruginous : very minutely and densely rugose, clothed with minute, short hairs, with an obtuse, longitudinal frontal indentation; antennz as in the preceding species ; yellowish ; labrum and palpi similarly colored ; eyes deep black : thorax transverse, wider at base than at apex, with the sides rounded, middle of anterior edge raised ; rugulose and clothed like the head ; obtusely indented on the middle of each lateral margin and in front of the scutel : elytra lighter and less pruinose than the head and thorax; pilose like the thorax, with the hairs more distinct ; with fine and somewhat obsolete pune- tured striz ; interstices fine, convex; exterior basal angles moderately promi- nent; apex acutely rounded: feet testaceous, or testaceous-yellow. It be- longs perhaps to Chevrolat’s subgenus Myochrous. Var.? a. Smaller; head, thorax and elytra light rust-red, the last with a common, indeterminate black spot on the middle. Melsh. MS. 3. E. pubescens. Cupreous, sparsely ashy-pubescent; head with a pro- found frontal indentation. 14—21. long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus pubescens, Melsh. Catal. Dull cupreous, or brassy-brown, sparsely ashy-pubescent: head deneely punctured, with a large, profound indentation on the front; labrum and palpi, black-piceous; eyes and antennz black, the latter moderately long, with five terminal joints thicker than the preceding ones, which are brassy ; gecond joint robust; joints third till sixth inclusive, equal; thorax trans- verse, feebly waved behind, with the front slightly advanced in the middle ; sides rounded; rather wider behind than before: minutely punctured, densely transversely wrinkled: scutellum obtuse-triangular: elytra wider at base than the thorax, narrowed to the apex, which is rounded; with ob- scure and irregular series of small punctures; transversely rugulose ; humeral tubercles prominent: beneath rugosely punctured: feet dull cupreous, tinted with greenish. 4. E. curtipennis. Brassy-brown; elytra short; head with a conspicuous frontal indentation. 11. long. Pennsylvania. rs Eumolpus plagiatus, 170 [Fre., 1847. Brown-brassy, shining: head finely punctured, with an obvious frontal in- dentation, anterior to which is a transverse arcuated impressed line: an- tenne, eyes, labrum and palpi, as in the preceding species: thorax com- paratively large, as wide in the middle as the elytra, contracted and trun- cate behind, in front rounded and advanced in the middle; sides rounded ; minutely punctured and rugulose: scutellum rugulose: elytra short, with the sides feebly arcuated ; rugulose, with obsolete series of punctures, which are much effaced towards tbe apex, the latter rounded: beneath and feet dark-brassy, rugose-punctured. Allied to the preceding epecies. CrYpTocEPHALus, Geoffr. 1. C. M. Nigrum. Black; thorax and elytra testaceous, the former with a black character like the letter M, the latter with an irregular vitta and several spots, black, 141. long. Pennsylvania. Pachybrachis M. Nigrum? Dej. Catal. Strongly punctured: head black, with the orbits of the eyes and a spot on the clypeus, testaceons; labrum pale, or piceous; antenne blackish, with four basal joints testaceous: thorax less strongly punctured than the elytra, testaceous, with a black character, formed like the letter M; edges black : scutellum testaceous, with the lateral margins black : elytra strongly and irregularly punctured, some of the punctures are arranged in irregular series ; testaceous, with an irregular, black vitta, abbreviated before the apex; lateral submargins each with three black spots, of which the ante- rior one is placed on the humerus, the posterior one is confluent with the vitta: beneath deep black; pygidium black, each side with a pale spot: feet blackish, with the femora and tibie varied with white. This species may prove to be a variety of the viduatus, Fabr. 2. C. atomarius. Dark fuscous, speckled with whitish; face white ; femora varied with white. 141. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus historio, Melsh. Catal. “ atomarius, Melsh. MS. Black, or dark-brown: head punctulate; face white, with the sutures black ; antennz fuscous, with three or four basal joints lurid : thorax densely punctulate, varied with a few dull testaceous spots; anterior edge and an apical medial line similarly colored: scutellum black, with a testaceous spot: elytra irregularly and profoundly punctured, punctures ranged in irregular series ; varied with numerous small lurid spots ; pygidium imma- culate: beneath black: feet black, varied with white. Var. a. Black; head almost immaculate; labrum and a double spot in front of the antenne, white ; thorax almost immaculate ; elytra with only a few small lurid spots; femora at tip whitish. Cryptocephalus conspersus, Melsh. Catal. This is probably the female of the preceding species. 3. ©. trinotatus. Deep black ; thorax with the lateral and anterior margins and three spots, sanguineous; front with two similarly colored spots. 14—2 1. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus trinotatus, Melsh. Catal. Deep black: head densely punctulate, with two reddish-fulvous spots be- tween the eyes; antenne and labrum, black : thorax confluently punctured, with the anterior edge, lateral margins, two oblique, dilated, abbreviated lines Fes., 1847.] 171 at base, and one at apex, reddish-fulvous: scutellum black; elytra imma- culate, densely and coarsely punctured: pygidium, beneath and feet, deep black, immaculate, ashy-sericeous. 4. C. castus. Deep black; thorax with the lateral margins and two spots at base, fulvous; elytra punctate-striate, each with a testaceous spot at apex. 1} 1. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus castus, Melsh. MS. Deep black: head opake, impunctured, spotless; labrum and antenna, deep black, the latter with the first joint shining: thorax impunctured, rather opake, with the lateral margins and two oblique, dilated, abbreviated lines at base, fulvous: scutellum black: elytra deeply punctate-striate ; in- terstices impunctured, somewhat convex; humeral tubercle small, promi- nent; suture raised immediately behind the scutel, each elytrum with a whitish spot at apex; beneath and feet deep black, immaculate ; feet shining. Var. a. Lateral thoracic margins broadly fulvous, without the basal spots. 5. C. esculi. Black, thorax with the lateral margins and an abbreviated line at tip, dull red ; elytra varied with white. 141.long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus Aesculi, Melsh. Catal. Black ; head confluently and obscurely punctulate; orbits of the eyes very faintly rufous; labrum white; antennz dull brown, the basal joints lurid; thorax densely and somewhat coarsely punctured ; lateral margins dull red; a longitudinal medial line originating at apex and abbreviated behind the middle, dull fulvous; scutellum black; elytra ordinarily punc- tured, varied with whitish ; basal edge white ; pygidium and beneath, deep black, spotless ; feet black, with the anterior femora maculate with white. Var. a. Head, thorax and feet spotless; elytra with the basal edge anda few small spots towards the apex, white; femora immaculate. Perhaps the female. 6. C. pectoralis. Ferruginous, maculate with black; pectus black. 14 l. long. Pennsylvania. Light ferruginous: head punctulate; face color of the thorax, with a longitudinal black line between the eyes, the latter black ; antenne color of the face ; labrum and feet testaceous ; thorax punctulate, with about five obsolete black spots: scutellum black: elytra ordinarily punctured, inde- terminately maculate with black; strie black; abdomen ferruginous ; pectus black, or dusky ; femora with a small brownish spot. 7. C. hepaticus. Ferruginous, sometimes’ sparsely maculate with black ; elytra simply and densely punctured. 1—141. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus hepaticus, Melsh. Catal. Robust, pale ferruginous ; beneath dusky ; head densely punctulate, some- times faintly clouded with brownish ; eyes black ; antenne moderate, color of the head; thorax densely punctured, sometimes obsoletely clouded with black; scutellum piceous; elytra densely punctured, without any of the ordinary longitudinal rugz or raised lines ; sometimes with four or five spots before the tip, and one on the humerus, black; pygidium dusky in the middle; abdomen at tip dull testaceous; feet rufo-testaceous, or testaceous; sometimes with a brown spot. ? 172 [Frs., 1847. 8. ©. tridens. Black; antenne and feet testaceous; head varied with whit ; thorax with the lateral margins broadly white, each with a large subquadrangular black spot; elytra varied with white. 141. long. Penn. Cryptocephalus tridens, Melsh. Catal. Black: head irregularly punctured, varied with white ; antenna and feet testaceous-yellow ; labrum white; thorax profoundly and irregularly pune- tured, with the lateral margins broadly white, each with a large subtrapezoi- dal blackish spot: scutellum black: elytra deeply and irregularly punctured, some of the punctures, towards the middle and sides, ranged in irregular series, their interstices convex: each elytrum with a cruciform spot and apex, white ; pygidium varied with white; epipleurz and margins of the abdomen, white. Basal edge of the elytra most frequently, and occasionally an abbreviated longitudinal line at the middle of the thoracic apex, white. 9. OC. flavicornis. Black; antenna, feet, lateral margins and two basal spots of the thorax, yellowish ; elytra, each with two similarly colored spots. 1} 1. long. Pennsylvania. Black ; head profoundly punctured ; eyes black, with the superior and an- terior edges, and labrum, white; antenne and feet, testaceous-ye!! »w: thorax profoundly and inequally punctured ; Jateral margins, lateral third of ante- rior and posterior edges, and two dilated short basal lines, testaceous, lines, forming junctions at right angles with the inner ends of the colored basal edge; scutellum black: elytra deeply, finely and inequally punctured, to- wards the lateral margins irregularly punctate-striate ; a lateral linear spot a little before the middle and apex, whitish; pygidium each side with a small whitish spot. 10. O. luteipennis. Black ; elytra luteous, with the lateral and basal edger and suture, black; thorax with the lateral margins and two basal spots. whitish. 131]. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus fasciatus and binotatus, Melsh. Catal. Robust, black: head sparsely puactulate, with a longitudinal impressed frontal line ; clypeus white, a similarly colored transverse spot between the eyes ; antenn fuscous or blackish, with the five first joints and mouth, tes- taceous-yellow ; thorax sparsely, very minutely and obscurely punctured, glossy ; lateral maagins narrowly, and a spot each side of the middle before the base, testaceous, tinted with yellow: scutellum black ; elytra luteous or ochreous, with the suture, lateral and basal edges and humeri, black ; be- hind the middle with a common, arcuated dusky fascia, being sometimes formed of spots, and sometimes entirely wanting; finely punctate-striate ; interstices flat, impunctured; pygidium with two small whitish spots at tip ; feet black, with the tarsi fascous ; coxe of anterior feet each with a white spot ; 2 similar spot each side of the anterior margin of postpectus. 11. CG. mutabilis. Dull rufous; thorax with the anterior and lateral mar- gins white; base, lateral margins and apex, the same, the two former macn- ate with blackish spots. 231. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus nobilis, Melsh. Catal. Dull rufous, shining ; head sparsely punctured and impressed on the front . orbits, clypeus and labrum white ; antenne pale brown, with five basal joints testaceous; thorax very minutely and distinctly punctured, polished, with the Fes., 1847.] 178 front and side margins whitish, broadly at the anterior angles; edges dusky : scutellum dusky ; elytra darker than the thorax, shining, with the basal and lateral margins broadly whitish, the latter abbreviated before the apex, and containing three blackish spots, of which one is located on the humeral tubercle ; middle of the base with a large dark reddish spot; apex whitish ; punctate-striate ; pygidium strongly punctured, with the apex white; beneath blackish, tinted with rufous; two or three apical segments of abdomen and feet rufous. This species varies much, and it is difficult to determine which is the type. Var. a. As in the preceding; thorax with two oblique, abbreviated whitish basal lines; elytra with the lateral margins not abbreviated, ma- culate with rufous. Var. b. Smaller than the type; head black, marked with white as in the type ; thorax black, highly polished and scarcely punctulate, with the front and side margins as in the type; a transverse series of four impressed points each side of the middle towards the apex; elytra black, punctate- striate ; basal edge, apex and lateral margins, white, inner side of the latter bisinuate ; humeral tubercles black ; feet as in the type; antenne color of the feet ; beneath black; a large quadrate white spot in the middle at base of the abdomen. Cryptocephalus charus, Melsh. MS. The white basal ab- dominal spot is present in almost every specimen. 12. C. clathratus. Black; head, femora and thorax fulvous, the latter with the lateral margins and two basal spots, yellowish; elytra with about sixteen yellowish spots. 131. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus clathratus, Melsh. Catal. Head pale fulvous, scarce punctulate ; a slight longitudinal impressed line between the eyes; antenne fuscous, with the five first joints testace- ous; eyes plumbeous ; thorax fulvous, with two oblique, dilated, abbrevi- ated yellow basal lines; lateral margins yellow; posterior and lateral edges blackish ; surface obscurely punctulate; scutellum piceous: elytra deep black, punctate-striate, with about sixteen yellow spots, placed in four transverse series, spots in the basal series six, all linear, eight spots in the two intermediate series, and two at apex; pygidium strongly and coarse- | ly punctured: beneath dusky, tinted with rufous; a whitish spot on the middie of the abdominal base; femora fulyous; tibiz and tarsi color of the abdomen. Var. a. Rufous or fulvous ; thorax immaculate; elytra black, with about 10 yellow spots. Cryptocephalus pulcher, Melsh. Catal. 13. C. sulphuripennis. Black; elytra pale yellow, maculate with black ; thorax with the lateral margins and two basal spots, yellowish ; feet pale fulvous. 21. long. Pennsylvania. — ' Head black, sparsely punctulate; orbits, labrum and clypeus, whitish : antenne yellowish, dusky at tip; thorax black, distantly punctulate, with the lateral margins and two oblique basal spots, yellowish ; scutellum black; elytra pale yellow, with three transverse rows of small black spots, apical row formed of four spots, and each of the two others six: punctate- striate, punctures dusky ; pygidium black, immaculate, coarsely punctuyed; beneath deep black: feet pale rufous. 14, ©. formosus. Deep black; thorax with the lateral margins and two 174 [Fex., 1847. basal spots, fulvous; elytra with thirteen fulvous spots. Nearly 2 1. long. Pennsylvania. Deep black: head with a longitudinal impressed frontal line; punctulate; maculate with whitish ; antennew blackish, with three or four basal joints yellowish: thorax polished, hardly punctulate, with the anterior and poste- rior angles, and two oblique basal spots, yellowish ; anterior edge similarly colored ; elytra profoundly punctate-striate, with thirteen fulvous spots, ranged in transverse rows; two of the spots are at apex, three at base, and in each of the two intermediate rows four; beneath, feet and pygidiam, deep black, immaculate ; coxea of the two anterior feet with a white spot; abdominal basal spot present. 15. C. hamatus. Black ; head, thorax, feet, and lateral and apical margins of the elytra, fulvous ; pygidium and tip of the abdomen, similarly colored or rufous. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Head pale fulvous, distantly punctulate: eyes plumbeous, varied with gold- en; antenne color ofthe thorax, dusky at tip; thorax fulvous, varying in depth of color ; sometimes with the lateral margins and two oblique basal spots, faintly yellowish; surface densely and minutely punctured; scutellum piceous; élytra black, punctate-striate; lateral and and apical margins with a yellowish vitta, curving a little upon the first entire innerspace; base with two short fulvous lines, the one at the suture and the other in the middle; lateral and apical edges, black ; basal edge sometimes yellowish : beneath black; feet, tip of the abdomen and pygidium, fulvous; abdominal basal spot present. 16. C. pretiosus. Black, shining; head and thorax maculate with white ; elytra punctate-striate, with an abbreviated fascia, linear spots at base, and apex, fulvous. 1$1. long. Pennsylvania. Very rare. Deep black: head rather strongly punctured ; a longitudinal profoundly impressed line between the eyes; orbits and clypeus white ; antenne black- ish, with five basal joints testaceous-yellow: thorax highly polished, very minutely and distantly punctured; a spot at each of the angles, and two oblique subovate basal spots, white; elytra finely punctate-striate, with a broad fascia in the middle, somewhat widely interrupted at the suture, apex and six short lines at base, fulvous or yellowish fulvous; exterior basal line or spot confluent with the faseia: pygidium, beneath and feet, deep black; coxe of the anteri- or and middle feet each with a white spot; abdominal basal spot present. Monacaus, Chevr. M. viridis. Dark green; antenne, mouth, lateral margins of the thorax and feet yellowish. #1. long. Pennsylvania. Cryptocephalus smaragdinus, Melsh. MS. Dark green, slightly brassy ; head obscurely and very minutely punc- tured; a slight feontal impression; clypeus, labrum and mouth, yellow- ish ; antenne similarly colored, with the tip dusky; as long as the tho- rax, somewhat thickened ‘towards the tip, with the joints short; thorax transverse, wider at base than at apex, with the sides rounded; trun- cate before and slightly waved behind; posterior angles acute; surface hardly punctulate, with the lateral margins dull fulvous; elytra shin- ing, finely and obsoletely striate-punctulate ; punctures almost want- ing toward the apex; feet yellowish-fulvous; pygidium, abdomen, Fas., 1847.] 175 and postpectus, black, the latter tinted with reddish ; antepectus color of the feet. Var. a. Head and thorax dull rufous. GastropHysa, Chevr. 1, G. @nea. Blue, slightly brassy ; antenne black, with five basal joints testaceous. 21. long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus eneus, Melsh. Catal. Blue, tinged with greenish, slightly brassy ; head deeply and distantly punctulate, sometimes with an obsolete longitudinal frontal impression ; an- tennz black, with five or six basal joints dull testaceous ; palpi piceous ; tho- rax deeply and densely punctulate: scutellum impunctured: elytra much punctulate, with the punctures longer than wide, and ranged in irregular and approximate series ; beneath and femora, greenish black, slightly brassy ; ti- biz and tarsi, blackish, or dark reddish-brown; abdomen sparsely punctulate. Var. a. Elytra cupreous. 2. G. cyanea. Blue ; beneath and feet black. 21. long. Pennsylvania. Chrysomela Raphani, Melsh. Catal. Cyaneous, shining: head punctured; an obsolete longitudinal impressed frontal line ; labrum and palpi piceous: antenne black, or dark brown, with four basal joints glabrous, shining ; thorax strongly tinged with green ; profoundly and densely punctulate: scutellum green: elytra punctured like the thorax, with a green reflection: beneath blackish; feet similarly col- ored, with a bluish or greenish reflection. Puampon, Meg. P. viride, Greenish, or dark fuscous brassy ; feet piceous. 13 1. long. Pennsylvania. Eumolpus viridis, Melsh. Catal. Ovate, greenish, or dark fuscous brassy, rarely cupreous ; shining; head deeply punctulate, with a transverse, arcuated impressed frontal line: an- tenne blackish or dark brown ; thorax very minutely and obsoletely punc- tured ; scutellum blackish, impunctured: elytra striate-punctate, punctures small, and the series remote: beneath blackish, with the abdomen densely punctured ; feet blackish-piceous, often brassy. Erotylide. Triroma, Fabr. T. basale. Black; basal half of the elytra rufous. 12% 1.long. Penn- sylvania. Black, shining ; head obscurely punctulate ; antenne black ; thorax much and rather distinctly punctulate: scutellum piceous: elytra with the basal half rufous: finely punctate striate ; beneath black, distantly and distinctly punctulate: feet black. Differs from pulchrum, Say, which it much resem- bles, in being more numerously and distinctly punctulate, and in having the basal half of the elytra transversely rufous, the rufous color extending as far down on the lateral margins as it doeson the suture, whilst in pulchrum the rufous color occupies only a short space behind the humeri, and extends down the suture, sometimes to the apex, 176 [Fen., 1947. Trreiax, Payk. T. fasciata. Yellowish ; head, antenne and base and apex of the elytra black. 2}1. long. Aiabama. Head distinctly and not densely punctulate; black, posteriorly tinted with rufous; antenne black; palpi, feet and beneath testaceous-yellow ; thorax similarly colored ; punctured like the head: scutel color of the tho- rax ; elytra broadly black at base and apex, with a broad, common, testa- ceous-yellow fascia; finely punctate-striate. Endomychide, Leach. Lycoprrpina, Latr. I. L. 4-guttata. Black; elytra with four rufous spots; thorax rufous, with the disk black. 141. long. Pennsylvania. Endomychus 4-guttatus, Melsh. Catal. Head black, shining, sparsely and obscurely panetialaene labrum and mouth dull fuscous; antenne black; thorax minutely and obscurely punc- tured ; rufous most frequently with a broad, entire, black dorsal vitta ; glossy ; edges dusky; scutellum black ; elytra similarly colored, each with a large subhumeral spot, and another behind the middle, rufous or fulvous ; obscurely punctulate ; postpectus, feet and abdomen, blackish, the latter with the tip dull pale brown ; tarsi similarly colored ; antepectus rufous. 2. L. lutea. Testaceous; eyes black. 131. long. Pennsylvania. Endomychus luteus, Melsh. Catal. Testaceous, glabrous or rather thinly clothed with minute short hairs, arising from very minute punctures; antenne darker than the head; eyes black ; thorax with the lateral margins pale testaceous, pellucid ; femora pale testaceous ; tibie and tarsi darker. 3. L. pilosa. Pale ferruginous, finely pubescent. 1% 1. long. Pennsyl- vania. Endomychus pilosus, Melsh. Catal. Palpi ferruginous, yellowish-pubescent ; head glossy, indistinctly punctu- late, hardly pubescent; eyes black: antenn color of the head, with the clava darker: thorax indistinctly punctulate, slightly pubescent, glossy, with the lateral margins lighter than the disk: elytra obscurely punctulate, yellow- ish-pubescent, with the suture sometimes dusky ; beneath and feet as above. This species and the preceding one may be referred to the subgenus Zpi- pocus of Dejean’s Catalogue. 4. L. crassicornis. Rufous ; disk of the thorax, a fascia and tip of the ely- tra, black ; clava of the antenne much dilated. 14 1.long. Pennsylvania. Endomychus crassicornis, Melsh. Catal. Rufous, glossy, obscurely and distantly punctulate, glabrous: head fre- quently dusky: antenne yellowish-rufous, with the three terminal joints greatly dilated in @s, less in 9s: thorax with the disk black; scutellum black: elytra with a broad common fascia on the middle, apex and anterior portion of the suture, sometimes its entire length, black: beneath color of the elytra ; feet color of the antenne. Var. a. Smaller; apex of the elytra and scutellum color of the elytra. Fep., 1847.] 177 5. L. apicalis. Testaceous-yellow ; elytra black, with the apex testace- ous. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Endomychus fuscus 2 Melsh. Catal. Testaceous-yellow, glossy : head and thorax scarcely or very indistinctly punctulate, the former tinted with rufous, the latter with longitudinal, an- teriorly abbreviated basal lines: scutellum black: elytra black, with the apex indeterminately testaceous ; obscurely punctulate: beneath and antenne color of the thorax : feet testaceous, sometimes colored like the abdomen. Var. a. Entirely pale festicemad Endomychus patlidus, Melsh. MS. Doubtless immature specimens. Coccinellide Leach. Coccinetta, Linné. 1. C. seriata. Pale yellow above ; head, disk of the thorax, suture and three submarginal spots of the elytra, beneath and femora, black; tibie and tarsi testaceous. 231. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella suturalis, Melsh. Catal. Ovate: head deep black, immaculate; labrum, palpi and antenne, testa- ceous, the latter with the clava dusky: thorax pale yellow, tinged with rosaceous ; disk and middle of the base, black: elytra color of the thorax, each with a series of three large, irregular, submarginal black spots, the first of which is hatchet-shaped, and placed on the humerus; the second spot, which is transverse-oval, is joined to the first by a short neck, and to the third by a short narrow line; the third spot is longitudinal-oval ; su- ture with a bisinuate black vitta, terminating a little before the apex, where it is joined to the tip of the posterior spot: beneath and femora, black; tibie and tarsi testaceous, the former with the apical half dusky; abdo- mon with the lateral margins rosaceous. Allied to ¢ébialis and parnethesis, Say. 2. B. concinnata. Whitish above; head and thorax maculate with black ; disk of elytra fuscous; beneath blackish; feet yellowish. 2}1. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella concinnata, Melsh. MS. Head white, tinged with yellowish, with two longitudinal black lines, in- terrupted in the middle by the prevailing color; eyes black; mouth and palpi yellowish, the latter with the tip dusky ; antenne testaceous: thorax color of the head, densely and indistinctly punctulate, and with about seven large spots and two geminate punctures, black ; spot on each of the lateral sub- margins suboval, one on each side of the middle at base sublunate, between which and the lateral spot i is placed the double puncture or dot; two anterior dorsal spots oblique, oval: posterior dorsal spot, small, oT and posted with the anterior ones triangularly : scutellum blackish : elytra whitish, stronger tinted with yellowish than the thorax, with the disk brown, tinted with reddish, and very irregular in its outline, containing in its middle each side and near the suture a pale yellowish spot; densely and more distinctly punctulate than the thorax : beneath blackish, with the abdomen strongly tinted with reddish ; feet yellowish-rufous. Var. a. ead Mack! with three longitudinal white lines ; thorax white, with an irregular black anil two short, longitudinal white eee’? in the niddité at 178 [Fes., 1847. base ; beneath and femora black; tibie# and tarsi pale testaceous. Coccin- ella pint, Melsh. MS. 3. C. venusta. Red above; thorax with four, and elytra with ten spots, black ; beneath aud feet, black. 3}1. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella venusta, Melsh. Catal. Hemispheric, punctulate, above dull red; head distinctly punctured, black, with the orbits and a transverse frontal line, dull red ; labrum piceous, edged with dull red; antenne testaceous, with the tip dusky: thorax with four very oblique black spots, of which the two basal ones are large, clavate or sublanceolate, and united at their base ; dorsal spots small, ovate: scu- tellum black, triangular: elytra more obviously punctulate than the thorax each with three submarginal, and two subsutural, large black spots, one of the latter resembles an inverted comma; suture black from a little behind the middle to near the apex, where it is dilated and becomes confluent with the terminal submarginal spot; pleure and epipleure, testaceous yellow ; pectus and abdomen, black ; feet similarly colored. 4. C. modesta. Black; elytra pale fulvous, each with six black dots; thorax with the lateral and anterior margins and two oblique, abbreviated lines, white ; head with a white frontal fascia. 2%1. long. Pennsylvania- Oblong: head black, with a broad, anteriorly tridentate, white frontal fascia ; antenne and palpi dull testaceous, with the tips black or dusky: thorax deep black, and like the head shining, the anterior and lateral mar- gins narrowly white ; a short, oblique line each side of the middle similarly colored: scutellum black: elytra fulvous, each with six black dots, placed 1, 2, 2, 1, of which the posterior two are rather larger than the others: be- neath and feet, black; postpectus each side at tip and base with a dull white spot. BRACHIACANTHA, Chevr. 1. B. 4-punetata. Deep black : elytra with four fulvous spots ; tibie and tarsi dull testaceous- 131. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella 4-punctata, Melsh. Catal. Deep black, shining, finely and densely punctured : head immaculate; an- tenne dull testaceous: thorax immaculate; anterior angles obscurely pice- ous: scutellum triangular: elytra, each with a subrotund spot at base on the inner angle, and another similarly shaped and sized one a little before the apex, and nearer to it than to the suture, fulvous : beneath and femora, black ; knees, tibie and tarsi, dull or dusky testaceous; prickle of the an- terior tibia robust, prominent. 2. B. fulvopustulata. Deep black above; front, lateral margins of the thorax, and four spots on each elytrum, fulvous; tibiz and tarsi, testaceous, 1l. long. Pennsylvania. Deep black, shining, densely and very minutely punctured : head with a jarge yellowish or fulvous frontal spot; labrum and antennz, testaceous : thorax with a large whitish spot on each of the lateral margins, contracted on the posterior angles: elytra, each with four pale fulvous spots, placed 1, 2,1; anterior spot occupies the inner basal angle; posterior one is placed a little before the apex, nearly equidistant from the suture and lateral edge: beneath and femora, dull ferruginous; tibie, tarsi, and Fep., 1847.] f 179 apex of the femora testaceous ; tooth of the anterior tibie small. Resem- bles somewhat uwrsina, Fabr., but is smaller than that species, and differs in the elytral spots. 3. B. basalis. Head, aaterior and lateral margins of the thorax, four basal and two apical spots of the elytra, pale sulphureous: two thoracic spots, elytra and beneath, black. 141. long. Pennsylvania. Hemispheric, very minutely punctured, shining: head pale sulphureous ; eyes similarly colored, with a dusky pupil, antenne and feet color of the head: thorax color of the head, with two large subtriangular black basal spots, separated by a narrow dorsal line: elytra black, each with three large pale sulphureous spots, of which two are at base and one at apex ; the inner basal spot is much larger than the humeral one; the apical spot is suborbiculate, and is placed nearer the edge than the suture: beneath blackish. Perhaps a variety of felina, Fabr. Hyrrrasis, Chevr. 1. H. maculifera. Black; head, anterior and lateral margins, eight elytral spots and feet, yellowish. 11. long. Pennsylvania. Black, shining, densely punctulate: head yellowish, -eyes black ; palpi and antenne color of the head: thorax with the anterior margin narrowly, and lateral margins broadly, yellowish: scutellum rather large, black, ob- scurely punctulate: elytra each with four yellowish spots, placed J, 2,1; anterior spot humeral, the two intermediate ones are placed transverse- obliquely, and the posterior spot is posted near the apex : beneath blackish; pleure, epipleure, parapleure and feet, color of the head. Var. a. Asin the type, but with the head and anterior margin of the thorax, black. Coccinella 8-guttata, Melsh. Catal. Var. b. As in var. a., but the humeral, intermediate and apical spots of the elytra are connected by a yellowish lateral margin. Coccinella conjluens, J. Melsh. MS. 2. H. 10-pustulata. Black; head, lateral thoracic margins and ten elytral, spots, fulvous; feet testaceous-yellow. $1. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella 10-pustulata, Melsh. Catal. Shining black: head indistinctly punctulate, yellowish-fulvous; eyes black; antenne, palpi and feet yellowish: thorax puuctured like the head, with the lateral margins fulvous: scutellum comparatively large: elytra distinctly and densely punctulate, each with five roundish fulvous spots, placed 2, 2, 1; the terminal spot is confluent with the apical edge: beneath black; pleure and epipleure testaceous-yellow. Var. a. As in the type, with the head and thorax entirely b'ack. Cocei- nella 10-guttata, Melsh. Catal. 3, t near the mid- dle; humeral tubercles small, distinct: beneath and feet blackish, the latter rather piceous. 3. S. flavifrons. Black; head and a large spot behind the middle of each elytrum, yellowish ; tibia and tarsi, testaceous. 21. long. Pennsylvania. Coccinella flavifrons, Melsh. MS. Subhemispheric, black, shining, pubescent, punctulate: head’ and an- tenne, yellowish; eyes black: thorax minutely punctured, with the ante- rior angles obsoletely testaceous : scutellum minute: elytra more distinctly punctulate than the thorax, each with a large orbicular yellowish spet be- hind the middle, and nearer to the suture than the lateral edge: beneath black : tibiz and tarsi, testaceous ; femora often dusky, sometimes testa- ceous. [Notz.—Dr. Melsheimer’s “ Descriptions of new North American Coleoptera” have been in course of publication m these Proceedings since April, 1844. In Vol. II, No. 2, will be found the commencement of this valuable and elaborate paper. The additional portions have appeared at such inter- vals in succeeding numbers, as the limits to which the Society is in some measure obliged to restrict its publications, and the claims of other contributors to the pages of the Proceed- ings would justify. These descriptions, together numbering about six hundred, are now concluded. The great care and labour bestowed upon them by the author, afford the best evidence of their correctness, and consequently of their value to those interested in this particular order of Insects. ] aim nuhete rhe tale mipr I anu oa | ber ides ae ae | > “tay Vege rape invari fe oc) "a ne SOW | tt bi 1 iit iso re. ie vines WP RI rarity Tt bi rail ae a aie sAcvatliy = Pat i San te, “als a Karey a ned rien ie te, 2) Pid i ath. eb + SIE FRE a ah es bi Catena rATT pe eo lea rede” = Fed 4 Pomty% J i es Winn” sna as fend Pease im Dae 7 i wt Riera ten ao eds ay, are jPion sags Pet, ith ie Aaa y, Hes) Kin ae yk ye aR 7h es, bre kS shih ve Bigeciy S san Yad me, sa % cata Fea | sits be D ies ; af “Hy thabor: ate air ny cbt lin ees a Nh ih naa is “4 fest yet Neat E10 RE MMM Bip = Tale Sia alan be es ad ; ls Da “ he Bh iC Via val, Bn 44 yegltrs, oe ee ¥ re a aS ‘ i ; eli spe ei ~« Uy Oe 4 ; raed & / ray Pernt) ae Fe : ee abouts time he eating ‘a 4 , = ’ . rr £ Reid $4: Lop yn dina Sidhe ey b ghee. sseniaeyale ps atl Ca es TE Pr ee “i vite triad 1b AC te a NG Boh Ya a, - te _ 2 ° tree 7 rit Ane, r "7 an bd ov * Pure \ hal eal 7 ay no vue aw Vane + 4 a | a, Sl eal al Jeet hs seer ry hs ? i ry qe: ‘i A = - — ae &- > OS ee ee ‘vein ome es me aes pars . meet, VOW » fl pate Ginn ot em ied 7 en he 22 peelios Mieke Ps SD en. , Sere eas if _.. = rx __ ae | 1 TF ese ae i: PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Vou. IIT. MARCH AND APRIL, 1847. No. 8. Stated Meeting, March 2, 1847. VicE PRESIDENT MorTON in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Mr. Richard C. Taylor presented a large and valuable col- lection of fossils and rocks, from various parts of the world, of which a list will be published in a future number. Specimen of Fluor spar with crystallized Galena, from Frei- burg, Saxony; specimens of crystallized Manganese and Manganese ore, from Ihlfeld, Harz Mountains; Analcime from Fassathal, Tyrol, and two fossil fish from the Zech- stein formation. Presented by Mr. Theodore F. Moss. The following mounted skeletons were received from Dr. Morton in exchange, viz :—Bradypus tridactylus, Podar- gus Stanleyanus, Dacelo gigantea, and Astur Nove Hol-' landiz. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Iconographie Ornithologique; par O. des Murs. 4to. 4th and 5th Livs. Deposited by Dr. T. B. Wilson. Revue Zoologique; par la Société Cuvierienne. Annees 1838-1845. From the same. Magasin de Zoologie; par F. E. Guerin, Annees 1831-1844. From the same. 26 184 [Marcn 1847. Oken’s Isis; Encyclopedische Zeitschrift vorzuglich fiir Na- turgeschichte, vergleichende Anatomie und Physiologie. Hefts 1-8. 1846. From the same. The Dog: by William Youatt. Edited with additions by E. J. Lewis, M. D. Philadelphia, 1847. From Dr. Lewis. Hybridity in Animals and Plants, considered in reference to the question of the Unity of the Human Species. By 8. G. Morton, M.D. New Haven, 1847. From the Author. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 5. No. 5. From the Associa- tion. American Journal of Agriculture and Science. Conducted by Dr. E. Emmons and A. Osborn, Esq. No. X. Feb. 1847. From the Editors. The following were received from Dr. Morton, in exchange for fourteen Human Crania now in the cabinet of the Society : Fauna Boreali-Americana. By John Richardson, Esq., F.R. 8., &c. Part 1, Mammalia. Part 2, Birds. 4to. London, 1829 and 1831. A Supplement to the Appendix of Captain Parry’s Voyage for the discovery of a North-west passage, in the years 1819-20. Containing an account of the subjects of Natu- ral History. 4to. London, 1824. Ornitholcgia Suecica. Auctore W. Nillson. Pars prior. 8vyo. Havnizx, 1817. Tentamen Systematis Amphibiorum. Auctore Blasio Mer- rem. 8vo. Marburgi, 1820. Histoire Naturelle generale des Pigeons et des Galinacees ; par C. J. Temminck. 3 vols. 8vo. Amsterdam and Paris, 18138. Principles of Geology. By Charles Lyell, Esq., F. R. 8. 4 yols. 8vo. 4th Edition. London, 1835. Dr. Morton read a comunication from the Rev. Dr. Bach- man, of South Carolina, on the subject of Hybridity in Birds and Quadrupeds. Marcu, 1847.] 185 The following communication was read from Messrs. Aaron Sharpless and William Kite, of Chester country, Penn- sylvania, dated 2d mo. 18th, 1847, in reference to the living Hybrids between the Guinea fowl and the turkey, lately pre- sented by them to the Society. “The mother was a common Guinea fowl, the survivor of two or three chicks hatched under a common hen two years ago from eggs presented to us. From constantly associating with the poultry, and having none of her own species for companions, she was rather unusually domestic. The father was a common turkey cock, the reputed father of our flock of turkeys, having nothing very remarkable in his habits Last spring the hen having arrived at maturity, was observed to drop one or two eggs, as though preparing for incubation. Supposing them to lack vitality, we procured a cock of the same species from a neighbor, and confined them together in a coop for a few days. On releasing them, the new comer remained for some days and then disappeared. Supposing our object to have been accomplished, the hen was now suffered to form her nest in peace, which she did, laying twenty-two eggs, differing in no re- spect that we can now remember, either in size or colour from common. When within a few days of maturing these eggs, her nest was broken up by an opossum, which destroyed nearly all of them; she however gathered the remnant together and brought off three chicks : the surviving two are those now in the possession of the Academy ; discovering the hybridity of these, we have much re- gretted the loss of the rest of the brood. As the chicks advanced toward maturity, ‘they began to excite our attention by peculiarities which induced us to suspect their hybridity. The young of the guinea fowl assume the colour of the adult, but these always had the rusty brown tinge on their plumage which now marks them. They never were able to com- pass the note of their mother so familiar to our boyish reminis- cence, but always ran into a cracked or falsetto key, which seem- ed laboured. They were quiet birds, differing in this from the guinea, whose clamor is so disagreeable in the poultry ae 186 Marcu, 1847.]} yard as to induce many persons to discard them. In the figure of these birds, their heads, and the size and appearance of their legs and feet, there is a greater resemblance to the turkey than to the dung-hill fowl, the only other bird a cross like the present could be traced to. One habit they had peculiar to the turkey, that of erecting the feathers on the back of the neck. The plumage of these birds also partakes somewhat of the pecu- liarities of that of the turkey, though curiously blended with that of the pintado. In a poultry yard we always find the guinea fowls masters of the place, in which peculiarity our hen shared, boldly attack- ing any who offended her, and readily putting the cocks to flight. This latter circumstance seems to negative the probability of the cross we are examining being with the latter fowl. We consider ourselves further confirmed in supposing the turkey before alluded to, to be the father of these hybirds, from the face that he was the only male turkey then in the poultry yard, and very close attentions were noticed between him and the hen, which were fully reciprocated on her part, though the act of sexual intercourse escaped our observation.” Professor Johnson offered some observations on the cellu- lose of the Borneo Palm, and its reaction with Nitric and Sulphuric acids, bywhich it was apparently converted into Zyloidine, and not into Pyroxiline. The Curators exhibited a mass of minute black insects, (Acari?) which had been received from the Rev. James H. McFarland, of Reading, Pa., by whom they had been collected on the Broad mountain, near the Summit Coal mines, Schuyl- kill county, Pa, on the 28th of December last. Thesnow fora quarter of a mile along the road was covered to blackness with these insects, and heaps from which a peck could have been collected, were frequent on the road. The day was warm for the season. A few more were obtained on a sub- sequent day, during a fall of snow. Marcu, 1847.] 187 The Curators having announced that a National Medical Convention was to assemble in this city in the early part of May next, it was on motion, Resolved, That the Curators be authorized te tender to the delegates from the city and county of Philadelphia to the National Medical Convention, the use of the Hall of the Academy during the session of the Convention. Also, on motion, Resolved, That the Library Committee, in conjunction with the Librarian, be instructed to devise plans for book cases in the new Library and Meeting room, and report the same at the next meeting of the Society. Stated Meeting, March 9th, 1847. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Professor Johnson presented the following: Sigillaria pachyderma, from South Joggins, Bay of Fundy, N. §., and also from Cranberry Head, Cape Breton ; Stig- maria fucoides from the same localities. The following minerals were presented by Mr. Moss: Feather Ore, and Galena, from Freiburg, Saxony ; Carbonate of Iron, from Erzburg, Styria; and Arragonite from Bohe- mia. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. American Journal of Science and Arts, No. 8. Vol. 8. New series. From the Editors. Proceedings of the Boston Natural History Society ; pp. 177 ~ to 192 inclusive. From the Society. Geological results of the Harth’s contraction in consequence of cooling. By James D. Dana. New Haven. 1847- From the Author. 188 [Maren, 1847 Anniversary Address of the State Agricultural Society of South Carolina, delivered Noy. 26, 1847. By the Hon. Mitchel King. Columbia, 8. C., 1846. From Dr. R. W. Gibbes, of S. C. Proceeedings of the Agricultural Convention, and of the State Agricultural Society of South Carolina, from 1839 to 1845 inclusive : to which are added a memoir on the subject of slavery, by Chancellor William Harper, and a letter on Marl by Ex-Governor James H. Hammond. 8yo. Co- lumbia, 8. C., 1846. From the same. The following works were deposited by J. Price Wether- rill, Esq.: Histoiré des Vegetaux fossiles ou Recherches Botaniques et Géologiques sur les végétaux renfermés dans les diverses couches du globe. Par M. Adolphe Brogniart. Livs. 1, 2, 7 to 15 inclusive. 4to. Descriptions of the inferior maxillary bones of Mastodons in the cabinet of the American Philosophical Society, with remarks on the genus Tetracaulodon, &. By Isaac Hays, M.D. 4to, Philadelphia, 1833. Abbildungen und Beschreibungen der Petrefacten Deutsch- Jands und der angraéwzenden Linder, unter Mitwirkung des Herrn Grafen Georg zu Miinster, herausgegeben von August Goldfuss. Nos. 1 to 6 inclusive. Folio. Recherches sur less Ossemens fossiles, &c., par Georges Cu- vier. 4me. edition. Vols. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8 (1st part) 9, 10 (Ast part.) The Fossil Flora of Great Britain. By John Lindley, Ph. D., &c., and Wm. Hutton, F. G. S., &. Vols. 1, 2, and Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6, Tand 8, of vol. 3. The Mineral Conchology of Great Britian. By James Sowerby, F. L. S., &c., continued by James D. C. Sowerby BES... Vol. 6. A dissertation on the nature and character of the Chinese system of writing, in a letter to J. Vaughan, Esq. By Peter S: Duponceau, L. L. D. ; to which is subjoined a Marcu, 1847.] 189 vocabulary of the Cochinchinese language. By Father Jos. Morrone. R. C. Missionary at Saigron. 8vo. Phila- delphia. 1838. Plates 60, 63 to 68 inclus., 70 to 75 inclus., 86 to 89 inclus. of Achille Comte’s Regne Animal. A letter was read from C. B. Adams, Esq., of Middlebury, Vermont, dated 17th Feb., 1847, desiring a copy of vol. 1, of the Proceedings, and an entire copy of the Journal of the Academy. Also, a letter from Mr. Charles Cramer, of St. Petersburg, requesting certain portions of the Proceedings. Dr. Bridges, from the Library Committee, in compliance with the instructions given at last meeting, submitted a plan for Book cases in the new Library room, which, at the sug- gestion of the Committee, was laid upon the table for the present. Stated Meeting, March 16th, 1847. Vice PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Specimens of Sigillaria pachyderma, Lepidodendron elegans, and Fucus? From Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. From Prof. Johnson. . An additional number of larvee of Cicada septemdecim, firmly attached by means of the proboscis to the roots of fruit trees. From Miss Morris of Germantown. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. ‘On the Geological position of the Castoroides Ohioensis. By James Hall, Esq., one of the New York State Geologists. Also, a description of the cranium of the same. By Jeffries Wyman, M.D. 4to. Boston, 1846. From Prof. Hall. ? 190 [Marcu, 1847. American Journal of Science and Agriculture ; conducted by Dr. E. Emmons and A. Osborn, Esq. January and March, 1847. From the Editors. A letter was read from Miss Morris, dated Germantown, March 5th, 1847, addressed to the Corresponding Secretary, containing the following in relation to the larve of Cicada septemdecim, presented this evening. “‘T send with this a box containing the larvae of the Cicada which I promised, and believe you will find them satisfactory evidence of the truth of my theory; they were found on the roots of a pear tree, which I had under examination this morning in company with between four and five hundred, which I gathered while the earth was being removed from a trench four feet wide and two deep that was dug around the tree. This experiment was in every way satisfactory, and proved beyond a doubt the correctness of my former observations.* My only surprise was that the tree had lived so long. I then removed the earth from a tree, distant about twelve feet. A quantity of earth and rubbish had been thrown around this tree, some years since, in conse- quence of which, the tree had produced a fresh and vigorous set of roots above those attacked by the Cicada; passing below these, about two feet, I found the larve in great numbers, but from the difficulty of getting at them, I believed the remedy would prove worse than the disease; so covering them up with fresh earth and manure I left the tree to its fate. I then went to a distant part of the garden, and caused the roots of another tree to be exposed, but to my surprise, found but few Cicada, not more than a dozen. This tree had long ceased to bear fruit, and had become withered and dried, several years before any other tree appeared to suffer, but in 1845 it again showed signs of returning life, though no care had been bestowed to restore it; and in the following year it threw out several fine and vigorous shoots from the branches. On a little further search I found the remedy, as well as the dis- ease, at the root. Mole tracks were to be seen in every direction around the tree and in that portion of the garden. I then ex- amined four other trees, and found that where the mole tracks ~ *See No. 6, page 132. Marcu, 1847.] 191 were to be found, the Cicada had nearly disappeared, while they abounded where the moles had not been. Many larve of the Scarites levigatus were found, no doubt doing their full share to rid us of so great an evil.” Dr. Leidy, from the Curators, read a letter from Dr. J. K. Mitchell, Chairman of a committee of the delegation from the city and county of Philadelphia to the National Medical Convention, returning acknowledgments to the Academy for the offer of its Hall for the use of the Convention, and accept- ing the same. The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from Judge Tremper, dated Dresden, N. Y., March 8, 1847, containing some Meteorological observations. Professor Johnson communicated some observations and experi- ments on the dust of anthracite furnace flues. Having several years since ascertained the presence of large quantities of salts of ammonia, both sulphates and chlorides, in flues and stove pipes where anthracite is consumed, he had recently directed attention to this as a source from which a moderate supply of these salts for the uses of horticulture may readily be obtained. It was therefore deemed worthy of a trial to ascertain in what proportion the salts soluble in water might occur in the dust of a flue, such as ordinary practice in domestic use would afford. For this pur- pose, one pound of the dry dust was heated with successive por- tions of distilled water until the liquid ceased to be coloured, or to give a saline residuum on complete evaporation. The liquid was of a dark brown colour, and on analysis afforded. - Sulphate of lime, - - - - - 12.3 grains Sulphate of Ammonia, - - - - 285.5 Chlor-hydrate of Ammonia with undetermined compound tarry matter, - - 20.4 Total in 1 pound - é - - 478.8 grains, or 6.84 per cent., or including the losses incident to the several steps of analysis, may be taken at 7 per cent. 192 Marcu, 1847. Professor Johnson exhibited some fine specimens of the bark of a Sigillaria, converted into coal, obtained from the coal fields of Nova Scotia. Stated Meeting, March 23d, 1847. Vice Presipent Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Micaceous Oxide of Iron, from Nova Scotia. From Dr. Hallowell. Lepidodendron elegans, Asterophyllites equisitiformis, and Calamites connzeformis ; from Sydney, Cape Breton. From Prof. Johnson. A letter was read from Thomas C. Eyton, Esq., dated Wellington, Shropshire, England, Feb. 18, 1847, presenting a case of insects, and asking for certain exchanges with the Academy. Referred to the Zoological Committee. A communication from the Secretary of the American Philosophical Society was read, acknowledging the receipt of late numbers of the Proceedings. A paper by Peter A. Browne, Esq., proposing a new no- menclature for the Class Mammalia was read and referred to Dr. Leidy, Mr. Haldeman, and Dr. Hallowell. ' Meeting for Business, March 30, 1847. Mr. Puinxirs in the Chair. Dr. Leidy announced the recent decease of Dr. Amos Binney, of Boston, late a Correspondent of the Academy, and offered the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted. APRIL, 1847.] 193 Resolved, That this Society has heard with feelings of sincere regret, of the decease of our late Correspondent, Dr. Amos Binney, of Boston, President of the Natural History Society, a most liberal patron of, and contributor to the Sci- ence of this country. Resolved, That this Society condoles with the Boston Na- tural History Society for the loss they have sustained. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary transmit a copy of the above resolutions to the Natural History Society. The following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy : Ogden Hammond, Esq., of Charleston, S. C. Wm. A. Bromfield, M. D., of the Isle of Wight. Stated Meeting, April 6, 1847. Vice PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Several specimens, in spirits, of the very young foetus of Didelphis Virginiana, taken fromthe pouch of the living animal. From Mr. Thomas Beasley, of New Jersey. Several specimens, in skin, of Pipra chrysoptera. From Mr. John Bell, of New York. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Oken’s Isis, No. 9, for 1846. Deposited by Dr. T. B. Wil- son. The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America: By J. J. Audubon and Rey. H. Bachman. No. 21. From the same. 194 [Aprin, 1847. Illustrations of the Zoology of South Africa: consisting chiefly of figures and descriptions of the objects of Natural History, collected during an expedition into the interior of South Africa in 1834, 35, ’36, fitted out by “‘ The Cape of Good Hope Association for exploring Central Africa,” &e. &e. By Andrew Smith, M. D., Director and Surgeon to the Expedition. Nos. 1 to 23 inclusive. 4to. London. From the same. Mr. Webster’s vindication of the Treaty of Washington of 1842, in a speech delivered in the United States Senate, April 1, 1846. From Prof. Johnson. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Associa- tion of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3. No. 6. From the Association. A letter was read from Dr. John P. Barratt, of South Carolina, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent.: Stated Meeting, April 13, 1847. Vick PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. T. B. Wilson presented a number of specimens, in spirits, of Platydactylus, Scorpio, &c., from Cuba. Dr. Morton deposited a skull of Manatus americanus, from the river Amazon, Saurian bones from Mount Holly, N. J. and a tooth of the Asiatic Elephant. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York. Vol. 4. Nos. 8 and9. From the Lyceum. Boston Journal of Natural History. Vol. 5. No. 3. From the Boston Society ofNatural History. APRIL, 1847. | 195 A letter was read from the Rev. Dr. Thomas 8. Savage, dated Cape Palmas, Western Africa, January 1, 1847, ac- knowledging the receipt of his notice of election as Corres- pondent. Dr. Leidy mentioned, as a remarkable instance of the great fecundity of the Cryptogamia, that in a puff-ball (Lycoper-- don) of large size, he counted under the microscope 27 sporules in the cubic hundredth of a line, which by calcula- tion, allowing for cellular tissue, makes the total amount con- tained in the specimen, 1,007,669,000,000. On motion of Prof. Johnson, Resolved. That a committee be appointed to inquire into the conditions of the bequest of the late William 8. Warder, Esq., to this Institution, and to ascertain whether the conditions on which said bequest was made, have not been so for realized that the Academy may be justly entitled to receive the benefit intended by the testator. Messrs. Johnson, Pearsall and Carpenter were then ap- pointed the Committee. Stated Meeting, April 20, 1847. Vick PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Thomas B. Wilson deposited four remarkably perfect Sau- rian skeletons from the Lias of England, each contained in its original matrix, as follow: Skeleton of Icthyosaurus tenuirostris, measuring 8 feet, 4 inches from the tip of the rostrum to the end of the tail. From Glastonbury, England. Skeleton of Icthyosaurus , 7 feet 7 inches from the tip of the rostrum to end of the tail. From the same locality. 196 Aprit, 1847. Skeleton of Icthvosaurns , 6 feet 7 inches from the tip of rostrum to the end of tail. From Lyme Regis, England. Skeleton of Plesiosaurus dolichodeirus? measuring 6 feet 4 inches from tip of snout to end of tail. From Lyme Regis. Dr. Morton deposited a human cranium from an embalmed body found in a tomb at Midian, in Arabia, by M. Fresnel, and by him presented to Dr. Morton. Also, skulls of Beaver, (Castor fiber,) and the Coati of Para- guay. Specimens of Sponge from the West Indies: presented by Mr. John C. De Costa. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. American Journal of Agriculture and Science. By D. E. Emmons and A. Osborn, Esq. No. 12. April, 1847. From the Editors. Catalogue of the genera and species of Recent Shells, in the Collection of C. B. Adams, A. M. Middlebury, Vt. 1847. From the Author. Charts of New Haven and Little Egg Harbor. From the Treasury Department, through A. Bache, Esq. Dr. Thomas B. Wilson deposited the following splendid works : The Birds of Europe. By John Gould, F. L. S., &c. 6 vols. Folio. London, 1837. A Monograph of the Odontophorine, or Partridges of Ame- rica. By John Gould, Folio. Parts 1 and 2. London, 1844 and 1846. Icones Avium, or Figures and Descriptions of new and inter- esting species of Birds from various parts of the globe. By John Gould. Folio. Parts 1 and.2. London, 1837 and 1838. A Century of Birds from the Himalaya Mountains. By John Gould. Folio. London, 1832. A Monograph of the Trogonidee, or family of Trogons. By John Gould. Folio. London, 1838. A Monograph of the Rhamphastidee, or family of Toucans, By John Gould. Folio. London, 18384. ApRIL, 1847.] 197 The Birds of Australia. By John Gould. Parts 1 to 25 in- clusive. Folio. The Mammals of Australia. By John Gould. Folio. Part 1. Zoologia Typica; or figures of new and rare Mammals and Birds described in the Proceedings, or exhibited in the col- lections of the Zoological Society of London. By Louis Fraser. Quarto. Parts 1 to 8 inclusive. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. 8. Erebus and Terror, under the command of Capt. Sir James Clark Ross, R. N., F. R. S., during the years 1839 to 1848. Edited by John Richardson, M. D., F. R.S. 4to. Parts 1 to 5 inclusive. Iconografia della Fauna Italica par le Quattro Classi degli- Animali vertebrati di Carlo L. Principe Bonaparte, Prin- cipe de Canino e Musignano, &c. Tom. 1, 2 and 3. Monographie de la famille des Myiotherine: par E. Menée- tries. 4to. Notices of the Ornithology of Napal. By B. H. Hodgson. 4to. pamphlet. Recherches sur l'appareil sternal des Oiseaux consideéré sous le double rapport de l’osteologie et de la myologie, &c., par M. le docteur F. J. Herminier. 2d edition, 8vo. Paris, 1828. An account of the change of plumage exhibited by many species of female Birds, at an advanced period of life, &c. By John Butter, F. L. 8., &c. 8vo. pamphlet. Revue Zoologique; par la Société Cuvierienne. Nos. 1 to 8 for 1846, and No. 1 for 1847. The Zoological Journal: conducted by Thomas Bell, J. G. Children, J. de Carle Sowerby, and G. B. Sowerby. 5 vols. 8vo. and an Atlas. A letter was read from Mr. Ogden Hammond, dated 19th April, 1847, returning acknowledgments for his election as a Correspondent. Mr. Gambel read a continuation of his “Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California.” Referred to the Com- mittee on former portions of the paper. ? 198 [Aprim, 1847. Mr. Cassin read a “ Description of a new rapacious Bird in the collection of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.” Referred to Messrs, Harris, Townsend, and Gambel. Dr. Morton read “‘ A description of Fossil Remains from the Eocene green sand of South Carolina. By Robert W- Gibbes, M, D.;’’ which was referred to Drs. Morton, Wilson and Leidy. Dr. Leidy communicated an observation which he had made in the human adult subject, of the existence of a spcu- lum of bone developed between the lamina of the dura mater, just over the point at which the trigeminus nerve pierces that membrane, the purpose of which he supposes to be, to protect the nerve from pressure as it passes over the superior edge of the petrous portions of the temporal bone to join the Casserian ganglion. Mr. Phillips offered the following, which was adopted : Resolved, That a copy of the Journal of the Academy, as far as can be spared, be transmitted to Mr. Moricand, of Geneva, in exchange for several numbers of his ’ Plants of Brazil, lately presented to the Academy. On motion of Mr. Gambel, Resolved, That the Publication Committee be authorized to commence the publication of a new series of the Journal of the Academy, in quarto form. Meeting for Business, April 27, 1847. Vicr PrestpENT Morton in the Chair. The Committee on Dr. Gibbes’ paper describing fossil re- mains from the Eocene green sand of South Carolina, re- ported in favour of publication in the forthcoming number of the Journal of the Academy. The Committee on M. Cassin’s paper read at last meeting reported in favour of publication. ApRIL, 1847. ] 199 Description of a new rapacious Bird in the Museum of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. By Joun Cassin. Genus Cyminpis, Cuvier. Cyminpis Wilsonii, Nobis. &. Body above entirely dark brown, palest on the head, beneath white; every feather from chin to under tail coverts crossed by several bars of bright rufous chesnut, and these colours extending upwards into a collar around the neck; fourth, fifth and sixth primaries longest and nearly equal, external webs nearly black, internal webs of outer primaries white at base and for nearly half their length, the remaining part reddish in- clining to chesnut, every primary (on its inner web) having two irregularly shaped black marks and tipped with black. Tail of the same colour ag the back but paler, white at base, and crossed by about four broad bars which are nearly black, the second bar from the tip accompanied by a narrow rather in- distinct bat of rufous; tip of tail narrowly edged with white. Billvery large, (larger than in any other species of this genus,) yellowish white, inclining te bluish horn colour at base. @ . Body above entirely slate colour, palest onthe head, beneath barred with the same, the bars having a ferruginous tinge. Total length of mounted specimen, from tip of bill to end of tail, 17 inches, Hab. Island of Cuba. The two specimens here described, were presented to the Academy by its esteemed member, Richard C. Taylor, Esq., the eminent Geologist, who haa kindly favoured me with the following note and memorandum ftom his journal : Philadelphia, April 5th, 1847. Dear Smx:I make the best reply in my power respecting the pair of Hawks, the skins of which and of other birds were brought by me from the Island of Cuba ; but not being an Ornithologist, the very coneise description that I can give of them may not be very intelligible nor useful. The locality was towards the north-eastern part of the island, in the vicinity of the port of Gibara, in the province of Holguin. The range of country more especially traversed by me, during six months residence, extended from the sea coast to thirty miles inland, either into the savanna, or copper region of the mountains. I have particularly described this country in the Transactions of the Am. Phil. Society, vol. ix., pp. 204 to 218, whereI have also given a re- connoisance map. My journal contains a short note, made at the time these hawks were shot. My companion and myself saw this pair in company, hovering over the crest 200 [ApriL, 1847. of the high limestone mountain called La Silla, about seven miles from the coast: my attention was called to them by my companion, a resident of the island, who assured me they were extremly rare, and he hoped we should be able to shoot them ; we were then on the peak of the mountain, and after a little chase, were so fortunate as to obtain both the male and female. My note is literally as follows: “ Gabilan azul, blue hawk of the Spaniards, male and female, very rare and difficult to shoot. Pupil black, with a greenish-yellow iris.” The food of these birds was stated to be various birds, of which doves were the most abundant on the spot, with perhaps an occasional relish of lizards, which were also abundant. I understood that these hawks frequented the most lofty and solitary peaks and were not often seen below. We considered ourselves extremely fortunate in the acquisition of this fine pair of birds. Respectfully yours, Ricwarp C. Tayor. Mr. John Cassin. The bill in this species is very large in proportion to the size of the bird, and it agrees, moreover, tolerably well with the written description of Falco magni- rostris, Gmelin,—so does the young Cymindis uncanitus, Illig. All authors, however, except Dr. Latham, clearly understood the F. magnirostris to bo the bird figured in Enl. 464, which is a common South American species of the genus Astur. Dr. Latham, in his article on F. magnirostris, Gen. His. vol. 1, p. 282, givesa description of a bird suspected by him to be the species intended by Gmelin, which applies very well to Cymindis cayanensis, Gm., in young plumage, but not to C. Wilgonii. I have named this species in honor of Dr. Thomas B. Wilson, as a slight tribute to his merits as a man, and his munificence as a patron of Zoological science. Remarks on the Birds observed in Upper California. By Wa. GAMBEL. (Continued from page 158.) PASSERES. i Lanius Ludovicianus, Linn. Loggerhead Shrike. . L. excubitoroides, Swains. Northern Zool. p. 115, pl. 34. _ In the Shrikes we are presented with a group of birds closely allied to each other, and undergoing such changes in plumage as renders them difficult to discriminate. Although examined with great care by Swainson in the Fauna APRIL, 1847.] 201 Boreali-A mericana, yet he appears to have laid too much stress upon char- acters subject to great variation, as size, relative length of quillsand color. The adult of the Loggerhead is a beautiful bird, and might well have been called excubitoroides, for the resemblance in colour and marking to the Euro- pean ercubitor is very great. Above, it is ofa clear pearl grey colour with the upper tail coverts, and exterior edges of the scapulars, nearly pure white; be- neath pure white ; the quantity of white on the tail feathers varies, but gene- rally is in ardpaetion to the age of the bird. The relative length of quills in the Shrikes is an uncertain character, oF differs very much according toage. Inthe young of this species, the second quillis generally much shorter than the sixth, butin the adult, equals and may even exceed the sixth in length; the proportion of the third, fourth and fifth to each other is also exceedingly various, and indeed in each wing of the same bird it is very common to find the proportion of the quills differing very mate- tially. This I have found to be the case in the European and both American species. It is rather strange that this bird so abundant in the southern, western and north western portions of our country, should not be found in the middle and northern Atlantic States. In California it is very common. Lanius septentrionalis, Gmel. Northern Shrike. LL. borealis, Vieill. Swains. I found our Butcher Bird in the Californian ridge of mountains in Novem- ber, but did not meet with it along the coast during summer, appearing to be replaced by the Loggerhead, which is a summer resident. Perisoreus Canadensis, (Linn.) Bonap. Canada Jay. We met with numbers of this plain and familiar bird in the Rocky moun- tains of the interior. Cyanocorax Stelleri, (Pallas) Bonap. Steller’s Jay. This species is occasionally met with in the pine groves of the mountains from New Mexico to California. Cyanocoraz Californicus, (Vigors) Nobis. California Jay. Garrulus Californicus, Vigors, Zool. Beechy’s voyage. G. ultramarinus, Aud, Nutt. non Bonap. The California Jay has been hitherto confounded by American ornithologists with the Mexican G. wliramarinus, accurately described by Prince Bonaparte, in the Journal of this Society, in 1825, and afterwards described and figured also, by Temminck in his Planches colorées, 439. It is strange that the Prince himself shouid have committed the same error of confoundiug the two species in his Comparative list of the Birds of Europe and North America, quoting at the same time Audubon’s plate and description, which is clearly the Californicus. 202 [ApriL, 1847. The distinctlons between the two species are very considerable, and may be thus stated. CYANOCORAX ULTRAMARINUS. Cyanocorax OA.irornicts. Much larger, 13 to 134 inches in Length 114 to 12 inches. length. Upper parts entirely blue; head and cheeks blue also, except space between the eye and bill which is Back brown. A broad line of white spots extending over the eye the length of the head, and with the black. space anterior to the eye and auri- culars dusky, The blue extending down the sides A crescent of blue surrounds the of the neck, but without a pectoral UPP& part of the breast. band. Throat only, whitish; all the rest of the under parts of a dirty brownish white, darker on the breast. Throat and upper part of breast white, streaked with lines of dusky ; all the rest beneath the collar of blue, brownish white. Length of wing 7 inches. Length of wing nearly 5 inches. . Tail nearly even, length 6} inches. Tail graduated or much rounded, - length 53 innhes. Tarsus 1# inches. Tarsus 14 inches. The C. ultramarinus by its greater size, blue colour above, and absence of pectoral band, together with its very different proportion, is easily distin- guished from the C. Californicus, which is much smaller, has a brown back, # white superciliary line, and a dull white throat, and breast surrounded by a collar of blue. The G, sordidus, Swains. (Syn. Bds. Mex.) generally quoted as a synonym of the wltramarinus, dose not agree very well with it, unless the description were taken from a young bird, in which the tail is irregularly rounded, and the size somewhat less. The California Jay is a very abundant species, and a constant resident. Jn its actions it is exceedingly restless, and at the same time sprightly and graceful, ever flitting from tree to tree, uttering a harsh grating jay, jay, and sometimes altering it to kayic, kay ic. Like allthe Jays, they are very fond of scolding, and a troop of them will surround and follow almost any object that attracts their attention, with their teasing disagreeable cries. Pica Hydsonica (Sabine) Bonap. Common Magpie. We frequently met with the Magpie on our route from New Mexico to Cali- fornia. It would linger around our camp to pick up the offal, and sometimes boldly steal the meat which was hung on the bushes around. Pica Nuttalii, Aud. Nuttall’s Magpie. I felt great pleasure on arriving at Santa Barbara,in Upper California, in see- ing in its native haunts, this distinct and beautiful Magpie, discovered by my frjend, the indefatigable naturalist and traveller after whom it is named; AprRIL, 1847.] 203 among others, a just tribute for the invaluable services he has rendered to natural science, during more than thirty years of his life, spent among us, in untiring investigation of the productions of our country. In California, at least, and where as yet I believe it has alone been found, this Magpie is exceedingly local, being confined, as far as I have observed, to the immediate neighborhood of Santa Barbara, where among the beautiful evergreen oaks (Quercus agrifolia) of the vicinity, it is abundant. Sprightly and graceful in its movements, it is a favorite with the inhabitants; and when not molested shows considerable confidence, often being seen about the doors of the houses, but becoming remarkably shy and cautious when chased or shotat. During my stay, from frequently shooting at them, although at first they were numerous in small flocks, they at length became so scarce that during the breeding season very few were to be seen, apparently having gone to the ravines of the neighboring mountains, so that I did not find a sin- gle recent nest, although the woods were full of those of the last year. The old nests were large, and built loosely of sticks like that ofa crow, and situat- ed in the topmast forks of the trees, well concealed by the foliage. Corvus ossifragus, Wils. Fish Crow. Abundant along the Pacific coast. Corvus Americanus, Aud. Common Crow, Also abundant throughout the Pacific coast, as well as in the interior, Corvus catatotl, Wagler. American Raven. Fitted by its organization tor any means of subsistence, there are few parts of North America where the Raven may not be found. In the arid region between the Rio Colorado and California, its ominous croak renders the desert solitude more dismal, and on the rocky uninhabited Islands off the coast of California, it is the companion of the Fish-hawk and Gulls; but in California, instead of being scattered and solitary, it becomes one of the most abundant and familiar of birds, and in company with its fellow-scavengers, the Turkey vultures and dogs, it is exceedingly useful in consuming the refuse of the cattle which are slaughtered in such great num- bers. At the Pueblo de los Angeles, so abundant were they in and around the town, that I have counted in the corral, or court yard of a single house, as many as 150 at one time. Nucifraga Columbiana, (Wils.) Aud. American Nutcracker. We occasionally met with this peculiar bird in the mountains of the interior, among the scattered pine groves. Quiscalus majors, Vieill. Boat-tailed Blackbird. _ This large and handsome blackbird is very abundant about the Gulf, and occasionally is seen as far north as Upper California. Scolcophagus ferrugineus, (Wils.) Bire. Rusty Blackbird. We found this species very common in New Mexico and California, as also 204 [Apri, 1847. the S. Mexicanus, Swains. lately described and figured by Audubon ag Quiscalus Breweri. Sturnella neglecta, Aud. Western Meadow Lark. This nearly allied species we found a bundant on the prairies in New Mexico, Rio Colorado, and California. In the spring around the Pueblo de los Angeles its delicate and melodious song was every where to be heard. About Monte- rey in the winter it kept in and along the margins of the pine woods. Molothrus pecorus, (Gmel.) Swains. Cow Blackbird. Abundant, in company with the Rusty Blackbird, frequenting, in flocks, the cattle corrals and farm houses of New Mexico and California. Icterus bullockit, Swains. Bullock’s Oriole. The males of this beautiful bird arrive at their summer quarters about the Pueblo delos Angeles and Santa Barbara, in California, about the first week in April, and the female in a week or so afterwards. They resort to the retired hedges of vineyards and orchards, and occasionally are seen among the trees in the town. Its song during this joyful season is uttered ina loud clear tone, and sometimes varied, but generally wek te tek tshe-o tshe-o tshe-o, wek te tek tshe-o. This is continued at intervals while flitting through the budding trees in search of their insect fare. When it observes any ob- ject of suspicion, it utters a few guttural croaking scolding notes, and con- ceals itself among the leafy boughs. About the middle of April I saw them commencing to hang their nests in the manner of our golden Robin, on the pendulous branches ef the willow and other trees surrounding the vineyards, and as far as I remained to see them completed, they were made with the same ingenious interweaving of delicate materials to form a pouch. Ageliaus xanthrocephalus, Bonap. Yellow-headed Blackbird. Abundant in California. . A. phaniceus, (Linn.) Vieill. Red winged Blackbird. Abundant in New Mexico and California. A. tricolor, Aud. Three colored Blackbird. This handsome species, discovered by Mr. Nuttall, and sent to Audubon with the above name, is abundant in California, going in small flocks in company with the other species. Its notes are very different from those of the red-wing, with which it associates, being a kind of guttural squeaking, like that made by a dying animal. The red of the wing cannot be seen when they are closed, looking as if it only had a white band. A. gubernator, (Wagler) Bonap. Two colored Blackbird. This pretty species is abundant, also, in California, and along the western coast of Mexico. It is often found in company with the pheniceus, which it APRIL, 1847.] 205 so much resembles, together keeping about corrals and places where cattle have been. ELECTION. The following gentlemen were elected Members: David C. Skerrett, M. D., of Philadelphia. Mr, George Boyd Allinson, ae BNpess gat Sean tos, Feu pag” air, 2° “ne PE a GUT ae ‘ Theis, 5 i ¢* oh A wuustee? ie RRO ane v3 Nise ora 7 dy iy Guage OC peers paen es Ha ptts, Sedu an i VA! ens (ih led 4 "ETA tera. be ~ Rel a9, —— “rel G44 Vee 27% Charl. ue a — : log =pb jim C60 tae Hs - ¥ "ad ios, % Fah ou | ‘ v ry ye ‘ ary =a 7 Bk iy > 4 ‘ t spa eres At, ice Arey oT ' 4 pwd s és . a i? . nfo » , 4 i Seg pug in 2 ' ‘ Y TP Pt & ¢( ag f 7 a yal re Wirt of ‘ a ey or ae ee a are a ai as Ae to eee PA Sa * ie ‘ , v4 \ ° P 4 - ti 'P . i J F , F : a» Parr aw ie id + + Meppampring andr “be AS ‘ r es rs gt serene Wr vs ride J oy" ‘ ; He paas <<, ’ ye pe rus Naga! J = e > oz at =. + “ir & o r- : z ae az a ; Lie 7 a PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHT LA DEEL PHT A: Vou. Ii. MAY AND JUNE, 1847. Nou2. Stated Meeting, May 4, 1847. The Society convened this evening, for the first time, in the néw and commodious Library and Meeting Room in the basement of their Hall. On this occasion, Vice-President Morton, upon taking the Chair, addressed the Society as follows :— Gentlemen,—As we now meet here for the first time, and under circumstances highly auspicious to the success of our In- stitution and to the interests of science, 1 beg to be indulged in a few remarks. On the evening of the 25th of January, 1812, six gentlemen met at a private residence, the home of one of them, in this city. Their objects were, conversation and improvement. ‘They had often met before, but without any definite intention; but they were now incited by a new impulse, a prospective enterprise.— Let them speak for themselves, in the following brief but emphatic declaration : “ We will contribute to the formation of a museum of natural history, a library of works of science, a chemical experimental laboratory, an experimental philosophical apparatus, and every other desirable appendage or convenience for the illustration and advancement of natural knowledge, and for the common benefit of all those individuals who may be admitted members of our Ip- stitution.” This resolve was adopted at the second meeting of the found- ers, one week after their primary sitting, on which occasion 29 208 [May, 1847. Thomas Say was also present, and Dr. Gerard Troost was elect- ed first President of this Society. Little did these two gentle- men, and their five colleagues, foresee the results of their unpre- tending enterprise ; for Science, in this country, was then in its infancy, and the number of those who fostered it was few indeed. From the acorn springs the oak; and from the humble efforts and continued self-sacrifices of a few private individuals, has arisen this Institution, now grown to the manhood of science. Thirty-five years have elapsed since those seven persons, pri- vate citizens, men without fortune or influence, laid the fouudation of our Society. That their intentions have been ably and zeal- ously sustained, through periods of probation and uncertainty, I can safely aver. Trials are the best incentives to exertion ; and the mind knows not its resources until forced to contend with ad- verse circumstances. There were those who resolved in their minds, who vowed in their hearts, that this institution should suc- ceed. Many of them are now in their graves; but their me- mory is inseparably blended with the annals and the honours of science. Maclure, Say, Godman, Collins, Conrad, Harlan and Keating—each has left his name on the tablet of nature ; and could the venerable Maclure now behold the institution which he so ably sustained, and so munificently provided for, how would he rejoice in the consummation of those hopes which he so ar- dently cherished during the last twenty-five years of his life! Among our living members are many to whom I would gladly award the just meed of praise for their signal and successful exer- tions in this our common cause; and there is one among us in the prime of life, and full of zeal in diffusing those great truths which in part illustrate, in part constitute, the laws of Omnipo- tence. He has come to us clothed in the spirit of science. What he has accomplished, every eye can see. An hundred years of ordinary prosperity could not have realized so much. To say less would be unjust. To say more would wound a mind that shrinks from observation and eulogy. Let us continue our exertions to make this Institution a praeti- cal school of Natural History, by throwing open our doors to all who seek knowledge ; and, supported and encouraged by the flat- tering auspices under which we have now met, let us redouble our zeal to unfold and diffuse the truths of Science. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Wilson presented a very large and elegant polished slab of Dendritic Limestone, from the vicinity of Bristol, England. Dr. William Blanding presented a mounted specimen of Condylura cristata. May, 1847.] 209 DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. The American Journal of Science and Arts. New Series. No. 9. May, 1847. From the Editors. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3. No.7. From the Asso- ciation. Proceedings of the Providence Franklin Society. Vol. 1. No. 1. April, 1847. From the Society. The followmg works were deposited by Dr. Thomas B. Wilson : Zoological Illustrations. By William Swainson, F. R. S. 6 vols. 8yvo. London, 1820-1832. New Illustrations of Zoology. By Peter Brown. 1 vol. 4to. London, 1770. Gleanings of Natural History. By George Edwards, F.R.§., &e. 7 vols. 4to. London. A Zoological Illustrations in Java and the neighboring Islands. By Thomas Horsfield, M. D., F. R.8., &. 1 vol. 4to. London, 1824. Illustrations of the family of Psittacide, or Parrots. By Edward Lear, A. L. 8. 1 vol. Folio. London, 1832. Cimelia Physica: figures of rare and curious quadrupeds, birds, &. By George Shaw, M. D., F.R.S., &. 1 vol. Folio. London, 1796. Mr. Gambel read a paper by Lieut. J. W. Abert, U.S. A., describing a new Quail, from New Mexico. Referred to Messrs. Gambel, Cassin, Harris and Townsend. Dr. Leidy read a letter from Prof. Spencer F. Baird, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, describing a Hybrid between the Canvas-back Duck and the common Duck. -The Librarian read a letter from the Rey. John G. Morris, of Baltimore, requesting certain exchanges of books. Re- ferred to the Librarian, with authority to act. Dr. Morton presented a paper from Dr. R. W. Gibbes, of Columbia, 8. C., in continuation of his description of the fossil remains of the Zeuglodon, from the Eocene of South 210 [May, 1847. Carolina, with additional drawings of the same. Referred to the Committee on the previous portions of the paper. Professor Hare made some observations on the combustion of gum in oxygen gas, and stated that the brilliant light which it emitted during combustion, proceeded from the presence of lime, which he considered an essential constituent of gums. Dr. Leidy stated that whilst engaged in examining the structure of some Lichens, he discovered numerous octagonal crystals intermingled with the cellular structure of several species of Parmelia. Many of the crystals equalled in size the greenish cells themselves, although none of them appeared to be contained within the latter. As chemical analysis has detected in these plants a large proportion of oxalate of lime, Dr. Leidy supposed these crystals to be that salt. Stated Meeting, May 11, 1847. Mr. PHILurPs in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A large massive specimen of Copper ore from the Fleming- ton Copper Mines, New Jersey. Presented by Dr. Thos. McEuen. An earthenware Indian utensil, taken from a crevice in a rock on Pine creek, Lycoming county, Pennsylvania. From Mr Thos. H. Taylor. Specimen of Astacus affinis, from Kentucky. From Prof. Haldeman. Bituminous coal from the Tippecanoe pit, Clover Hill, Va., and Fuller’s earth from the same locality. From Profossor Johnson. Mounted specimen of Callipepla squammata, Gould, from Mexico. From Lieut. J. W. Abert, U.S. A. May, 1847.] 211 The following specimens in spirits, of Reptilia, originally part of Prof. Rafinesque’s collection, were presented by Dr. Hallowell, viz. :— Lacerta viridis, var. agilis, Linn.; L. cerulescens, m. & f., L. Brongniartii Daudin; L. muralis; L. crocea; Anguis fra- gilis; Coluber Aisculapii; C. austriacus; C. tesselatus; C. natrix, L.; Vipera ammodytes; Rana arborea; R. esculenta; R. temporaria; R. fusca; R ignea; R. variabilis; R. vulgaris; Salamandra maculosa; 8S. atra; S. cristata; S. ignea; S. teeniata. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Medical Botany ; or descriptions of the more important plants used in medicine; with their history, properties and mode of administration. By R. Eglesfeld Griffith, M.D. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1847. From the Author. On Hybridization amongst vegetables. By the Hon. and very Rey. William Herbert, L. S. D., Dean of Manchester. Part 1. From the Author, through Dr. Elwyn. The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from Richard Kippist, Esq., Librarian of the Linnean Society of London, dated March 4, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent. Prof. Johnson made some remarks upon the Tippecanoe coal mines of Clover Hill, Virginia, from which the specimens presented this evening were obtained. Stated Meeting, May 18, 1847. Mr. Purtutes in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. The following collections of Bivalve Shells (consisting of 162 species) was presented by Dr. Robert E. Griffith, VIZ. :— 212 [ May, 1847. Aspergillum 1 species; Gastrochwia, 4 do.; Toredo, 4 do.; Pholas, 8 do.; Solen, 12 do.; Solecurtis, 2 do.; Mesodesma, 5 do.; Leguminaria, 1 do.; Panopoa, 2 do.; Periploma, 1 do.; Lutraria, 4 do; Mactra, 15 do.; Crassitella, 3 do.; Erycina, 2 do.; Mya, 2 do.; Corbula, 1 do; Pandora, 4 do.; Anatina, 1 do.: Thracia, 1 do.; Tellina, 78 do.; Psammobia, 11 do. A fine specimen of Isis hippuris, from the China seas. Pre- sented by Capt. John Land. Calamites approximatus, from Hazleton, Luzerne county, Pennsylvania. From Prof. Johnson. Dr. Leidy presented a paper by John L. Le Conte, M D., of New York, entitled “‘ Fragmenta Entomologica,” describ- ing the following new species of Coleopterous Insects, viz.:— Triplax atriventris, T. vittata, T. ruficeps, T. teeniata; Dyctiop- tera substriata; Digrapha affinis, D. apicalis, Celetes basalis, C. tabida; Pedilus Pulcher, Canthon perplexus ; Hybosorus earolinus ; Ocbodeus obscurus; Bothynus morio, B. obsoletus, b. pyriformis, B. variolosus ; Cantharis fulgifer, C. nigricornis, C. filiformis; Spondylus spheericollis; Eros incestns, E. timi- dus, E. wger, E. solicitus, E. socius, E. mollis, E. lascivus, EK. vilis; Phaneus torrens, P. difformis; Zenoa vulnerata ; Steropes occidentalis; Movocerus bifasciatus, M. serratus ; Pyrota Engelmanii; Heliophilus latimanus; Opatrum fossor ; Tetraopes femoratus; T. annulatus. The paper was referred to the following Committee :—Prof. Haldeman, Dr. R. E. Griffith, and Dr. Pickering. Meeting for Business, May 25, 1847. Vice PrestpENtT Morton in the Chair. After some preliminary business had been concluded, Dr. Morton made a few remarks on an aboriginal cranium ob- tained by Dr. Davis and Mr. Squier, during their researches in the mounds near Chilicothe, Ohio. Dr. M. observed that it possessed in a remarkable manner all those characteristics which pertain, in various degrees, to the Indian skull in every region of this continent, viz.:—the vertical occiput, great vertical diameter, and corresponding width between the parie- May, 1847.] 213 tal bones, so that the several diameters are nearly equal, giving the whole head asingularly high, and squared or conical form, while the forehead recedes less and the face is less prominent than is usual in skulls of the American race. Dr- M. added, that he had in his possession upwards of four hun- dred Indian crania, but that this was more beautifully de- veloped, in all its proportions, than any one of them. The relic in question possesses additional interest from the opi- nion of the gentlemen who found it, that it pertains to the race of aboriginal mound builders. ELECTION. Edward Hartshorne, M. D.; John Neill, M. D.; and Mr. Richard Kern, of Philadelphia, were elected Members. And the following gentlemen were elected Correspondents. Prof. Isaac L. Chipman, of Acadia College, Nova Scotia ; George N. Lawrence, Esq., of New York. Stated Meeting, June 1, 1847. Vice PrestpENTtT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Wilson deposited the following valuable casts : Icthyosaurus latimanus, and Icthyosaurus intermedius, the originals of both in the Bristol Institution, England ; Ptero- dactylus crassirostris, upper and under view; and Head of Pistosaurus. Also, an original specimen of Teleosaurus Chipmani? from the Lias of Wurtemburg. Dr. Wilson also presented three casts of Egyptian tablets from originals found at Thebes, and now in the possession of Mr. Goldney. The following colleetion of Shells from the Island of Jamaica was presented by Prof. C. B. Adams, of Vermont, viz. :— 214 (Jung, 1847. Helix aspera, H. acutissima and var. H. lucerna, H. Cookiana, H. epistylium, H. pulla, H. nemoraloides, H. sinuata, Brownii, H. per-affinis, H. marginata, H. turbiniformis, arboreoides; Helicina Leana, H. aureola, H. costata, H. pul- chella, H. Brownii; Cylindrella nobilior, H. brevis; H. san- guinea, H. carnea, H. Cumingii, H. seminuda; Truncatella Cumingii ; Pedipes quadridens; Cyclostoma mirabile, ©. ore- nulatum, ©. articulatum, C. Grayanum, C. maritinum, C. ¢9- lumna, ©. pulchrius, ©. fascia, C. album, var. fuscum, C- Brownii, ©. corrugatum, ©. lincina, C. album, and C. linea. Dr. R. E. Griffith presented a collection of Shells consisting of fifty species of Murex, thirty-two species of Triton, and twenty species of Ranella. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. On the new planet Neptune; (from the Proceedings, of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, March, 1846.) From Prof. Pierce. Genera Plantarum secundum ordines naturales disposita: Auctore Stephano Endlicher. Nos. 1 to 8. 8vo. From Dr. William Darlington. Dr. Wilson deposited the following :— Iconographie Ornithologique, Par. O. Des Murs. 7th Livy. The Genera of Birds. By George Robert Gray; with plates by David William Mitchell. Parts 29 to 56 inclusive. Illustrations of the Zoology of South Africa, &. By Andrew Smith, M. D., &. No. 24. Oken’s Isis. No. 10 for 1846, and No. 1 for 1847. The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. By Audu- bon & Bachman. No. 22. Fauna Japonica. Auctore P. H. von Siebold. No. 14. Verhandelingen over de Natuurligke geschiedenis der Neder- landsche overzesche bezettingen, door de leden der Natuur- kundige commissie in Oost-Indie en andere Schrijvers. Botanie, parts 1 to 7; Land-en Volkenkunde, parts 1 to 9. Zoologia typica, &c. By Louis Fraser. Nos. 9 and 10. The Birds of Australia. By J. Gould. No. 26. JUNE, 1847.] 215 A Natural History of the Birds of New South Wales. By John Wm. Lewin, A. L. 8. lLvol. 4to. London, 1828. Iconographie du Régne Animal de M. le Baron Cuvier. Par M. F. E. Guerin. Vols. 1 and 2, coloured plates. Vol. 3, text. 8yo. History and Description of the Royal Museum of Natural History. ‘Translated from the French of M. Delouze. Parts land 2. 8vo. Paris, 1823. Travels in New Zealand; with contributions to the geogra- phy, geology, botany, &c., of that country. By Ernest Dieffenbach, M.D. 2 vols. 8yvo. London, 1843. A specimen of the Botany of New Holland; by James Ed. Smith, M. D., F. R. S., the figures by James Sowerby, F. R. 8. Zoology of New Holland: by George Shaw, M. D., F. R. 8., the figures by James Sowerby. In 1 vol. 4to. London, 1793--94. Histoire naturelle des plus beaux Oiseaux chanteurs de la Zone Torride; par L. P. Vieillott. 1 vol. folio. Paris: 18055 xy" The Magazine of Natural History and Journal of Zoology, Botany, &c., conducted by J. C. Loudon, F. L. S., &e. 9 vols., 8vo. London, 1829 to 1837. New series of the same work; by Edward Charlesworth, F.L. 8. 4 vols. 8vo. Annals of Natural History, or Magazine of Zoology, Botany, and Geology, (being a continuation of Loudon’s Magazine of Zoology and Botany, and of Hooker’s Botanical compa- — nion) 18 vols. 8vo. and 3 Nos. of vol. 19. Magazine of Zoology and Botany; conducted by Sir Wm. Jardine, P. J. Selby, and Dr. Johnson. 2 vols. 8vo. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. S. Beagle, under the command of Capt. Fitzroy, R. N., during the years 18382, _to ’36. 1 vol. 4to. London, 1840. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. S. Blossom, under the command of F. W. Beechey, R. N., in the years 1826 to °28. 1 vol. 4to. 1839. Illustrations of British Ornithology. By Prideaux T. Selby, Esq. 2 vols., plates, folio max. j 216 (June, 1847. A letter was read from Prof. Andreas Retzius, dated Stockholm, April 25, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent of the Academy, and communicating the result of Prof. Miiller’s examination of the Hydrarchos of Dr. Kock, which he is satisfied is identical with the Basilosaurus of Harlan, (Zeuglodon cetoides, Owen;) @ fact long since announced by this Society, and published in its Proceedings. Prof. Retzius also stated that he had detected a cutaneous gland in the Fox, (Canis vulpes) near the root of the tail, opening on the surface, and emitting an agreeable odour. He considered this gland characteristic of the genus Vulpes, and desires further investigation of the subject. Prof. Hare made some observations on the weather of the past spring, referring particularly to the great prevalence of easterly winds, and their unnsual and remarkable aridity, and as a consequence, the retarding of vegetation. He also expressed his conviction that rain only occurred when two strata of clouds existed; if only one was present, its moisture would be absorbed by the surrounding atmos- phere. Mr. Gliddon remarked that the casts of Egyptian tablets, presented this evening, were those of ordinary funereal tablets, which were frequently found with the mummies, deposited by the friends of the deceased. They probably belonged to the 18th or 19th Dynasty. Jung, 1847.] 217 Stated Meeting, June 8, 1847. Dr. McEven in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Several specimens of copper ore from the Flemington Copper Mine, N. J. From Dr. McEuen. A collection of bird skins, reptiles, &c., from the Island of Jamaica. From Dr. C. W. Pennock. A portrait of the late distinguished Botanist, A. P. De Can- dolle. Received through Prof. Asa Gray. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Memoirs de la Societé de Physique et d’ Histoire Naturelle de Geneve. Tome x., pt. 2. Tome xi., pt. 1. From the Society. Troisiéme Supplement au Memoire sur les Coquilles terrestres et fluviatiles de la Province de Bahia. Par D. J. Mori- cand. From the author. The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from Prof. C. B. Adams, dated Boston, May 22d, 1847, accompanying the donation of shells announced at last meeting, and proposing to the Society, for publication in its Journal, a Memoir on the Natural History of the Island of Jamaica, of which he was the author. The letter was, on motion, referred to the Publication Com- mittee. A letter was read from Dr. Frederick Tamnau, of Berlin, dated March 22d, 1847, making enquiry relative to a box of minerals which he had transmitted to the Academy at a for- mer period, and asking an equivalent for the same; which was accordingly ordered by resolution of the Society. Dr. Leidy called the attention of the Society to a cranium of a New Hollander, in which the remains of sutures of the incisive bone could be distinctly traced. Mr.. Edward Harris exhibited specimens of Amorpha, 218 (Jung, 1847. Fruticosa, raised from seed brought by himself from the State of Missouri. Prof. Johnson exhibited a plan for forming geological sec- tions, in which the different strata were represented by the rock itself in a pulverized state upon paper. Stated Meeting, June 15, 1847. Vice PresIpENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Report of the Commissioner of Patents, exhibiting the opera- tions of the Patent office during the year ending Dec. 31, 1845. From Peter A. Browne, Esq. The history and culture of the Olive. The anniversary ad- dress of the State Agricultural Society of South Carolina, delivered Noy. 26, 1846, by the Hon. Mitchel King. Co- lumbia, 8. C., 1846. From Dr. R. W. Gibbes, of South Carolina. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society. Vol. 4, Nos. 386 and 37; July 1846 to March 1847. From the Society. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3, No. 8. From the Asso- ciation. Dr. Wilson deposited the following fine works: Planches colorees d’Oiseaux: par C. J. Temminck. 5 vols. folio. Voyage autour de Monde de la Coquille, pendant les années 1822, ’23, 24 and ’25, par M. L. Duperry. Zoologie: par MM. Lesson and Garnot. 2 vols. 4to. and Atlas, folio. Paris, 1826, ’30. Histoire naturelle generale des Pigeons: par C. J. Temminck, (with his original introduction, and proof plates before let- tering,) 1 vol. folio. Paris, 1808. JuNE, 1847.] 219 Les Pigeons; par Madame Knip, née Pauline de Courcelles, premies peintre d’histoire naturelle de 8. M. 1I’Impera- trice Reine Marie Louise: le texte (ler. tome) par C. J. Temminck, et (2e. tome) Florent Prevost. Folio. Paris, 1811, 1834. A letter was read from the Royal Bavarian Academy of Sciences, dated, Munich, April 26, 1847, requesting certain portions of the publications of this Society for completing the series of the same in the Bavarian Academy. A communication was read from the Secretary of the American Philosophical Society, dated May 7, 1847, return- ing acknowledgments for late numbers of the Academy’s Proceedings. Professor Hare read a memoir intended for publication in the Journal of the Academy, entitled ‘“ Objections to the electrical theories of Franklin, Du Faye and Ampere, with some suggestions as a substitute.” Referred to a committee consisting of Dr. Bridges, Mr. H. Seybert, and Prof. Johnson. Professor Hare stated that among the results of the com- bustion of gunpowder, he had detected the formation of Sul- pho-cyanide of Potassium, indicated by its producing a blood- red precipitate with the per-salts of iron. Stated Meeting, June 22d, 1847. — Vick PrestipENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. A collection, in spirits, of Reptiles from Jamaica. Presented by Dr. C. W. Pennock. Dr. C. D. Meigs presented a living specimen of Hydrochceerus capybara (Cavy,) from South America, and a living speci- men of Didelphis Virginiana. - 220 (June, 1847. Dr. Morton deposited five crania of Malays, and one of an Oceanic Negro. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. American Journal of Agriculture and Science, conducted by Dr. EK. Emmons and A. Osborn, Esq. June 1847. From the Editors. On the destruction and partial reproduction of forests in British North America. By John William Dawson, Hsq., of Pictou. From the Author. Dr. Wilson deposited the following : The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America; by J. J. Audubon and Rev. J. Bachman, D. D. Vol. 1, large 8vo. New York, 1846. Oken’s Isis, No. 2, for 1847, and Revue Zoologique, No. 2, for 1847. A letter was read from J. W. Dawson, Esq., dated. Pictou, N. S., May 25, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent. Dr. Leidy exhibited a drawing of an Entozoon, (a species of Distoma,) found in the pericardium of Helix alternata. This entozoon is half a line in length by a quarter of a line in breadth, a large comparative size, when its situation is con- sidered, being equal to that of the ventricle of the heart. The pericardium was perfectly transparent, and presented no appearance of cicatrix, or marks of external communication. Dr. Leidy then read the following description of Distoma Helicis—Oval, flattened, white in colour; oral disk large, round, marked by radiating lines: posterior disk central, about the size of that of the mouth, radiate, with a dark spot inthe centre. Intestinal canal commencing by a fusiform oesophagus, the apex of which joins a round stoma- chal cavity, from which passes off on each side a convoluted intestinum, which proceeds to the posterior extremity of the body. About half way between the central disk and the JUNE, 1847.] 221 posterior extremity of the animal, I indistinctly observed what I presumed to be the generative orifice. By permission of the Society, a report was received from the Committee on Dr. R. W. Gibbes’ memoir, entitled ‘‘ On the fossil genus Zeuglodon, Owen, with an account of speci- mens from the Eocene green sand of South Corolina,’’ recom- mending the same for publication in the forthcoming number of the Journal of the Academy. The report was adopted. Meeting for Business, June 29, 1847. Mr. PuItires in the Chair. The Committee, to whom was referred Prof. Hare’s paper entitled ‘‘ Objections to the electrical theories of Franklin, Du Faye, and Ampeére, with some suggestions as a substitute,” reported in favour of publication in the Journal of the Academy. The report was adopted. The Committee on Mr. Peter A. Browne’s paper, proposing anew nomenclature for the class Mammalia, reported that the views taken by the author, although novel and ingenious, did not, in their opinion, justify the substitution of the names proposed for those in use, and established by Cuvier and others. The Committee also requested that a copy of the paper might be deposited in the Library of the Academy. The report was adopted. The Committee on a paper by Lieut. J. W. Abert, U.S. A., describing a supposed new species of Quail inhabiting New Mexico, reported the same to be the Ortyx squamata, Vigors ; and recommended for publication the following por- tion of the communication. “‘ This bird appears to be well known throughout the whole de- partment of New Mexico, for a sketch that I had made of it was universally recognized by the inhabitants of that country, who called it ‘ La Codorniz.’ I. met with several coveys on the banks of the “ Rio del Norte,’’ opposite to Socorro,’ but I had not the good fortune to obtain any specimens until Nov. 12th, 222 (Jung, 1847. when in the neighbourhood of ‘ Bosquecito,’ and again on the 9th of Dec., when hunting, about eight miles to the north of ‘ Fray Cristobal.’ These birds congregate in flocks or coveys of from 20 to 30; when alarmed, they emit a chicking note, and run with such ra- pidity, that it is difficult to get a second sight of a covey, that one may have startled ; they seem to love the low sandy bottoms where the wild sage grows ; as these bottoms are covered with little knolls, which with the sage, serves to secure them from their enemies. Although not hunted by the people, they are shy. When forced to take wing, they make a whizzing sound that startles one, scattering as they fly, so that when they alight, they are at considerable intervals from each other, but they soon call together, with the uttering of a single whistling note. I dissected several, and found them to contain small green insects of the Hemipterous order, also grass seed and the berries of the mistle- toe, which in that country grows on nearly every cotton-wood tree. The female bears so great a resemblance to the male, that dissection alone can serve to determine the sex.” The Publication Committee, to whom was referred Prof. C. B. Adams’ letter of May 22d, relative to a paper on the Natural History of Jamaica, reported that they deem it at present inexpedient to accept the proposal of Prof. Adams, in regard to publishing the same in the first number of the new series of the Journal of the Academy. The report was adopted. The report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. The following resolution was adopted. Resolved, That subscribers to the Journal of the Academy be entitled to the Proceedings of the same, free of charge during the period of their subscription. ELECTION. The following gentlemen were elected Correspondents of the Academy : E. George Squire, Esq., of Chilicothe, Ohio, Dr. Edwin H. Davis, do. do. James Carson Brevoort, Esq., of New York, Major George A. McCall, U.S. A. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Vou. III. JULY AND AUGUST, 1847. - No. 10. Stated Meeting, July 6, 1847. Vice PrestpENt Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. The following collection of rare and valuable shells, princi- pally from the East Indies and the South Seas, was presented by Dr. Wilson ; viz :— Helix Busbyii, 1 specimen; Bulimus Downsii, 4; B. mindoren- sis, 8; B. (undescribed) from Venezuela, 1; B. do. do., 2; B. citrinus, 2; B. do. reversed, 2; B. Funchii, 1; Cardium multipunctatum, 1; Pyrula Mawei, 1; Bivalve (undescribed, from Japan,) 1; Murex tenuispinosus and operculum, 1; Co- nus regius (princeps), 2; Trochus Guilfordii, 1; Ovula volva, 1; Ranella imperialis, 2; Oliva undata, (white) 2; Trigonia pectinata, 2; Rostellaria Powisii, 1; Voluta Delesertii, 1; Ca- rinaria vitrea, 1; Cyprzea vitellus (white), 3; Scalaria varicosa, 2; Cyclostoma inca, 38; Unio discus? 1 valve; Ostrea iris (prismatica), 1; Ncera longirostra, 1; N. undescribed, 1; He- licina (undescribed, from Venezuela, 2; Spondylus gederopus, 1; Auricula Caledonica. Dr. Wilson also presented a coll ection of British shells, con- sisting of 65 specimens : also seven masses of Anatifa, Sabella, Spatangus, Balanus, Serpula, and Velhella. Dr. R. E. Griffith presented a collection of shells comprising 224 . [Juty, 1847. 41 specimens of Fusus, 11 of Pyrula, 8 of Fasciolaria, 26 of Turbinella, and 56 of Pleurotoma. Mr. T. C. Percival presented several specimens of Minerals from Montgomery County, Penn. Also, some very fine spe- cimens of the fruit of Vanilla aromatica, both wild and culti- vated, from Tamaulipas, Mexico. A specimen in skin, of Garrulus peruvianus, and one of Ieterus cucullatus, from Mexico. Presented by Major G. A. McCall, U.S. A. Prof. Johnson announced that the collection of Chemical apparatus of Mr. Henry Seybert, together with his library of Chemical works, had been received, and were now on deposit in the Institution. The apparatus consists of 1500 pieces of the following descriptions :— Among the articles of glass are large assortments of digesters, phials, tincture bottles, jars, globular receivers, matrasses, tubes, funnels, alembics, retorts, conical foot glasses, air pump receivers, precipitating jars, sypbons, eudiometers, alkalimeters, mercurial bath receivers, adapters, areometers for all liquids, with 250 re- agents and other preparations in jars and phials. The porcelain ware includes capsules with sockets, evaporating dishes, mortars and pestles, plain and branched tubes, calcining tests, funnels, plates, retorts, cups, &e. The earthen ware embraces fire-clay ‘‘ tests,” crucibles, retorts, crucible covers and stands, assay fur- naces, chauffers, muffles, cupels, &c. The p/atina includes co- vered crucibles, forceps, spatula, spoon, wire, plate, foil and grains Among the miscellaneous articles are agate mortars, chenlical lamps, mouth and table blowpipes, portable forge, Papin’s di- gesters, leaden tubes, assayer’s table, blowpipe table and bellows, a work table, a variety of furnace implements, and other furniture essential to an analytical laboratory. The sca/es and wetghts are in st cases, and of sizes adapting them to different chemical re- searches. ~The Library contains 259 volumes, by the following authors : Thenard, Haitiy, Brard, Beudant, Orfila, Richerand, Magendie, Gay Lussac, Bergmann, Murray, Foureroy, Kapeler and Caventou, Jourdan, Karsten, Ure, Thompson, Mirbel, Faraday, De Lisle, Chaptal, Berthollet, Klaproth, Sage, Cramer, Priestly, Black, Schmeiser, Kirwan, Brongniart, Berthier, Lucas, Humboldt, Park, Jameson, Accum, Ingenhouz, Spallanzani, Chevreul, Homassel, Lavoisier, Bache, Lewis, Maquer, Henry, Payen and Chevallier, JULY, 1847.] 225 Vitalis, Berzelius, Aiken, Cuvier, Stromeyer, Burat, and Rose; to- gether with 44 volumes of the Annales de Chimie, and 47 volumes of the Annales de Chimie et de Physique. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. A-voyage round the world in the years 1800 to 1809, in which the author visited the principal islands in the Pacific Ocean, and the English settlements of Port Jackson and Norfolk Island. By John Turnbull. 3 vols.12mo. Lon- don, 1805. From Dr. Joseph Leidy. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Penn. College. Vol. 3. No. 9. From the Association. Review of Dr. M. Gay’s statement of Dr. Jackson’s claims to the discovery of the inhalation of ether as a preventive of pain. By J. B.S. Jackson, M. D. From the author. De Candolle’s Prodromus, Pars 7, sectio posterior. Pur- chased by Academy to complete its series. Dr. Wilson deposited the following works: A History of the fossil fruits and seeds of the London Clay : by James Scott Bowerbank, F.G.S. Part1. 8vo. Lon- don: 1840. Illustrations of the Geology of Yorkshire: by John Phillips, F.R.S., &. Part 1, the Yorkshire Coast; Part 2, the Mountain limestone District. 4to. London: 1835-56. Iconographie Ornithologique: par O. Des Murs. 8th Liv. Spicilegia Ornithologica exotica. Auctore J. F. Brandt. Fascic. 1. 4to. Petropoli: 1839. | The Animal Kingdom of the Baron Cuvier, enlarged and adapted to the present state of Zoological Science ; illus- trated after the original drawings of Audebert, Baraband, ~ Cuvier, &c., (comprising Mammalia, orders Bimana, Quad- rumana and Cheiroptera.) 2 vols.in one. 4to. Edinburgh: 1839. Description des Coquilles fossiles des environs de Paris: par G. P. Deshayes. Tomes 1 and 2, and Atlas, 4to. Paris: 1824. 226 [Juny, 1847. Monographie des plantes fossiles du Gres Bigarre de la Chaine des Vosges: par W. P. Schimper et A. Mougeot. 1 vol. 4to. Leipzig: 1844. Mr. James Read presented the following works :— Calendrier de Flore ; ou études de fleurs d’apres nature: par Madame. V.. Dy ©. .0 enedcte ; 3 vols. 8vo. Paris, 1802. ‘Traite des Jardins; ou le nouveau de la Quintinye, &c.; par iY) ce a ae ; 4 vols. 8vo. Paris 1775. Dr. Robert E. Griffith deposited a large collection of valua- ble works, many of them very rare : viz :— D. Georgii Rudolphi Boehmeri Bibliotheca scriptorum His- toric naturalis Ciconomiz aliarumque artium ac scienti- arum ad illam pertinentium realis systematica. 9 vols. 8vo. Leipzig. 1685 to 1789. Recreatio mentis et oculi, in observatione animalium testace- orum curiosis nature inspectoribus Italico sermone primum proposite A. P. Phillippo Bonanno, 1 vol. 4to. Rome, 1684. Delicize Cobresiane; J. P. Cobres Buchersammlung zur Naturgeschicte. 2 vols. 8vo. Fauna Groenlandica ; systematica sistens animalia Groenlan- diz occidentalis hactenus indagata, &c., secundum proprias observationes Othonis Fabricii. 1 vol. 8vo. 1780. -Loologize Danice Prodromus; seu animalium Danie et Nor- vegie indigenarum characteres, nomina, et synonyma im- primis popularium. Auctore Othone Friderico Miiller. 1 vol. 8vo., 1776. Synopsis novorum generum, specierum, et varietatum testa- ceorum viventium anno 1834 promulgatorum, &. Auc- tore Th. Miller. 1 vol. 8vo., 1836. Bibliotheca Physico-medica. Zu finden bii Leopold Voss in Leipzig. 1 vol. 8vo., 1835. Jo. Jacob. Baieri Sciagraphia Musei sui accedunt supplementa Oryctographize Norice cum figuris zeneis. 1 vol. 4to., 1780. Juty, 1847.] 227 Classes Conchyliorum. Auctore Carolo Augusto de Bergen. 1 vol. 4to. 1760. Kleine beytrage zur Testaceotheologie oder zur erkantniss Gottes aus den Conchylien in einigen sendschreiben heraus- gegeben. 4to. Frankfort and Leipzig: 1760. De corporibus marinis lapidiscentibus que defossa reperiuntur: auctore Augustino Scilla; addita dissertatione Fabii Colum- nee de Glossopetris. 4to. 1747. Enumeratio Molluscorum Siciliz cum viventium tum in tel- lure tertiaria fossilium, que in itinere suo observavit auctor Rudolphus Amandus Phillippi. 4to. Vol. 2d: 1844. Joann. Bapt. Bohadsch, de quibusdam animalibus marinis, eorumque proprietatibus, orbi litterario vel nondum vel minus notis. 4to. 1761. Recherches sur l’usage des feuilles dans les plantes, et sur quelques autres sujets relatifs a histoire de la vegetation. Par Charles Bonnet. 4to. 1754. Jacobi Theodori Klein tentamen methodi Ostracologicz, sive dispositio naturalis Cochlidum et Concharum in suas clas- ses, genera et species, &c. 4to. 1753. Jani Planci Ariminensis de Conchis minus notis liber, Kc. 4to. 1750. Gerardi Blasii Amstelredamensis. Anatome Animaliam. 4to. 1681. Della storia naturale marina dell’ Adriatico. Saggio de Sig- nor dottore Vitaliano Donati giuntavi una lettera del Signor dottore Lionardo Sesler. 4to. 1750. Rariora Musei Besleriani que olim Basilius et Michel Ru- pertus Besleri collegerunt; nunc commentariolo illustrata a Johanne Henrico Lochnero. Folio. 1716. Opere postume del Conte Giuseppe Giovanni Ravennate. Folio. 1755. Thesaurus imaginium Piscium Testaceorum, que Georgius E. Rumphius, M. D. collegit. Folio. 1711. Zoophylacium Gronovianum, exhibens Animalia que in Musco suo adservavit, examini subjecit, systematice dis- ? 228 [Juny, 1847. posuit atque descripsit Laur. Theod. Gronovius, J. U. D. Folio. 1781. Muszeum calceolarianum Veronense ab Andrea Chiocco, 4to. Jacobi Breynii Opera: (viz., Fascieuli rariorum planta- rum; Icones et descriptiones rariorum plantarum: J. P. Breyni Jacobi filii dissertatio botanico-medica de radica Ginsem, seu Nisi, et Chrysanthem Bidente Zeylanico ac- mella dicto: Epistola de Melonibus petrefactis Montis Carmel; Dissertatio physica de Polythalamiis.) 4to. 1759. Disemanies Tubulorum Marinorum, &c., secundum disposi- tionem Musei Kleiniani. 4to. 1731. Ueber den innern bau der sec und einiger anslandischen erd und Flusschnecten. Ein bersuch von Johann Samuel Schreter. 4to. 1783. D. Joh. Fr. Blumenbach’s Handbuch der Naturgeschichte. 12mo. 1799. The Conchologist’s Book of Ba ic containing 600 species of Univalves. By Sylvanus Hanly, B, A. 2d edition. 8vo. London, 1842. Kritisches Register zu Martini und Chemnitz’s Systematis- chem Konchylien-kabinet von Dr. E. Pfeiffer. 8vo. 1840. British Marine Conchology: a descriptive catalogue of the Salt-water Shells of Great Britain. By Charles Thorpe. 12mo. London 1844. Letters were read : From Dr. Wm. A. Bromfield, dated June 25, 1847; from Wm. H. Edwards, Esq., dated New York, 29th June, 1847; from George N. Lawrence, Esq., dated New York, 28th June, 1847; and from Major Geo. A. McCall, U.S. A., dated Pines July 2d, 1847, sever rally selon oviledigis the receipt of their notices of election as Correspondents. From Col. J. J. Abert, U. S. Topograph. Engineers, rela- ting to an Aerolite, which fell on the 25th of Feb. last, nine miles from the town of Marion, Iowa; and enclosing a frag- ment of the same. JuLy, 1847.] 229 From Henry Seybert, Esq., dated Philadelphia, July 5, 1847, in reference to the deposit of his chemical apparatus and books in the Institution, the conditions of the deposit being, that the whole is to become the property of the Society, unless withdrawn by himself during his life-time, under the usual rules regulating such deposits. From Richard Brown, Esq, dated Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, addressed to the Corresponding Secre- tary, of which the following is an extract: ** During the last winter months I frequently went into the Pits, and rejoice to say was rewarded by the discox ery of some remark- able fossils in the roof of theseam. One was an upright Lepidoden- dron 12 inches diameter, with roots spreading out in all directions to a distance of 7 to 8 feet from the stem. The roots near their junction with the stem, present rhomboidal markings combined with areole ‘of stigmaria—nearer to the extremities of the roots, the rhomboidal spaces disappear and the surface assumes ‘the ap- pearance of true stigmariz. A pith or core of iron pyrites is found in some of the roots. I sent drawings and descriptions of this fos- sil to Mr. Bunbury about a month ago. You will probably see them in the London Geological Journal, for August next. I have also got another remarkable fossil, a complete root-stock of a dome-shaped figure, but the stem had been broken short off, and the bark squeezed together by the mud deposited upon it. Itis covered with a coaly bark 10th of an inch thick ; presents leaf scars arranged in double lines similar to the Sigillaria alternans of Lind- ley and Hutton. Roots spread out in all directions, marked with areola of stigmaria; but what is most curious, the under side of the root exhibits a series of short, obtuse tap roots, arranged nearly in a circle—these are marked with scars similar to stigmaria. The under side of the root is also covered with a thin coaly bark—the vertical tap roots arc 3 inches long, 2 in diameter at their Junetion with the root-stocks, and terminate downwards in an obtuse point, the shape being fusiform, or not unlike a short carrot. In addition to these, I have got some fine specimens of fossil fruits from the same locality. They appear to have been similar to those of Pandanus; the seeds being arranged on the surface and continuing in towards the centre. Before compression they proba- bly resembled a fluted melon in shape, and were as large. Prof. Hare presented a Synopsis of his paper on Electricity (read ata late meeting of the Academy,) which being designed 230 (Jury, 1847. for publication in the Journal, as the commencement of said paper, was referred to the same committee. On motion of Prof. Johnson, Resolved, that the thanks of the Academy be presented to Mr. H. Seybert for his liberality in depositing for the use of this Institution, to an indefinite period, his extensive and valuable chemical apparatus and collection of works on chemistry. Stated Meeting, July 15, 1847. } Mr. PuHILuiirs in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Six teeth of Physeter macrocephalus, in different stages ; and two very fine specimens of recently crystallized Carbonate of Lime, obtained from an aqueduct upon the Erie Canal. Presented by Dr. R. E. Griffith. A mass of granite containing fine specimens of Tourmaline and crystallized Feldspar. From Mr. Kilvington. Dr. Griffith presented an additional collection of Shells, con- sisting of 57 specimens of Cardium, 4 of Cypricardia, 31 of Bulimus, and 118 of Helix. A collection of 200 species of Irish Shells. Presented by Wm. Thompson, Esq., President of the Belfast Society of Nat. Hist. : Five specimens of Sertularia, three of Spongia, and one of Flustra, from England. Presented by Dr. Wilson. Prof. Johnson presented a set of Liebig’s apparatus for analy- sing organic substances. The Curators exhibited two skeletons of the Hybrid birds be- tween the Guinea fowl and Turkey, and between the former and the common domestic fowl, both of which were recently presented in a living state to the Academy. Suny, 1847.] 231 DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Calcutta Journal of Natural History. Nos. 21, 22, 25, 24, from April 1845, to Jan. 1846. From the Editors. The American Journal of Science and Arts. No. 19. 2d Series. July, 1847. From the Editors. Geological Survey of Canada. Report of Progress for the year 1845-6. Same for 1846-7. From Wm. E. Logan, Esq. of Montreal. Hight Nos. of the Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College, furnished at the re- quest of the Corresponding Secretary, for supplying the deficiencies of the same in the Library. Dr. Leidy read a paper, intended for publication in the New Series of the Journal, entitled “‘ Natural History of Belostoma.”’ Referred to Messrs. Haldeman, Wilson, and Griffith. Mr. Gambel read a communication from Major George A. M’Call, U. 8. A., describing a new Pigeon from Mexico, and containing an account of the habits of the Geococcyx viaticus, Wagler. Referred to Dr. Wilson, Mr. Gambel and Mr. Cassin, A letter was read from Wm. EH. Logan, Esq., dated Mon- treal, 30th June, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of his notice of election as a Correspondent, and transmitting the Geologi- cal Reports announced this evening. : Also a letter from Dr. Von Jeger, dated Stuttgard, 25th March, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of some of the Pub- cations of the Academy, and stating his intention to transmit others in return. d2 232 [Juny, 1847. Stated Meeting, July 20, 1847. Dr. GrirritH in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. An additional collection of Shells presented by Dr. Griffith, consisting of 329 specimens of the following genera:— Pecten, 45 sp.; Cardita, 17; Venus, 1; Cardium, 1; Arca, 36; Machera,2; Solen, 2; Periploma, 1; Strombus, 67 : Rostellaria, 7; Pterocera, 8; Cassis, 24; Cassidaria, 5: Achatina, 38; Achatinella, 22; and Bulimus, 54. A specimen, in skin, of Geococeyx viaticus, from Agua Nueva, and one of Bassoris astuta, Lichst.¢',from Monclova, Presented by Capt. Eustis, U. 5. A. ‘two mounted specimens of the chick of Numida meleagris, white variety. From Dr. Heermann. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Dr. Wilson deposited the following : A History of British Birds. By William Yarrell. 3 vols. Svo., and Supplement. Histoire du Voyage de la Coquille. Atlas. Folio. Summary of the Transactions of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia for Dec. 1846, to April 1847, containing 2 paper by Dr. Hallowell, entitled “‘ Cases illustrative of the natural history of ‘Tuberculous Diseases... From the author. On the endemic gastro-follicular Enteritis, or Summer com- plaint of children, as it prevails in the United States. By Edward Hallowell, M. D. From the same. Catalogo metodico dei Pesci Europei di Carlo L. Principe Bonaparte. 4to. Napoli, 1846. From the author. Professor Johnson deposited, on the part of Mr. H. Seybert, nine additional chemical works, for use in the Laboratory. JULY, 1847.] 238 A communication was read from J. F. Frazer, Esq., Secre- tary of the American Philosophical Society, acknowledging the reception of a recent number of the Proceedings of the Academy. Meeting for Business, July 27, 1847. Vice Prestpent Morton in the Chair. The Committee on Dr. Hare’s Synopsis of his paper on Hlectricity, reported in favour of publication of the same in the Journal, as the commencement of said paper. The Committee on Major M’Call’s communication read 13th inst., reported in favour of publication in the Proceedings. Description of a supposed new species of Columba, inhabiting Mexico, with some account of the habits of the Geococcyx viaticus, Wag/er. By GerorGe A. M’CALL. CoLUMBA *solitaria. Length 13 inches 9 lines. Alar extent 23 inches. Wing, from the flexure, 7 inches, 5 lines. Tarsus 1 inch; middle toe 1 inch, 2 lines; first toe 9 lines, and longer than the third; nails light flesh colour; feet and legs deep red. Iris dark-orange. Bill above, 1 inch, 1 line, but feathered to within 5 lines of the tip; reddish near the base, whitish near the tip. Head chocolate-blue. Throat chocolate-white. Neck and breast bluish-chocolate with brilliant reflections. Back, belly, flanks, underwing-coverts and greater exterior wing-coverts light red colour, the last faintly bordered with white. Lesser wing-coverts chocolate red, forming a bright shoulder spot of elliptical shape. Quill feathers dusky, tinged with lead colour on the outer vanes. 3rd primary longest. Upper and under tail coverts bluish-lead colour. ‘Tail 5 inches; slightly rounded ; of twelve feathers ; dusky. Individuals of this fine species, which, in general contour, re- sembles Columba Cinas, were found on the Rio Grande, from Matamoras to Camargo—these were shy, and only met with at intervals. They were again observed on one or two of the smaller water courses between the former place and Victoria, but never in flocks; nor were more than half-a-dozen seen anywhere in 234 [Juny, 1847. a single day while hunting over large extents. Their haunts were in the neighborhood of running streams or very large ponds of clear water—bere four or five might be found scattered over some 20 or 50 acres; thus showing little sociability even on their feeding grounds. But most frequently be is found alone, perched near the water, or with rapid wing shaping his solitary course across the extensive waste. His flight is extremely bold, as he pitches in wide irregular zig-zags through the air, with a velocity scarcely to be surpassed. ‘The meat for delicacy of flavour is not excelled by any of the family. Geococcyx VIATICUS, Wagler. (Hor a description of this bird, see Proceedings of the Academy, vol. 2, No. 10.) The G. viaticus, which the Mexicans familiarly call Paisano, (countryman,) is found in Texas, from the River Nueces to the Rio Grande, and in Mexico, from the seaboard at least to the Sterre Madre ; and being an inhabitant of the chaparral, or thorny thicket, he rarely ventures far beyond its borders. Although the toes of this bird are disposed in opposite pairs as in other species of his family, yet the outer hind toe being reverseable and of great flexibility, is in either position aptly applied in climbing or perch- ing, as well as on the ground. ‘Thus he at times pitches along the ground in irregular but vigorous hops, and again when the outer toe is thrown forward, he runs smoothly, and with such velocity as always to be able to elude a dog in the chaparral, with- out taking wing. He feeds on coleoptera, and almost every species of insects. And near the Nueces where the snail (Lym- neus stagnalis) abounds, it is also greedily eaten. These he snatches from the ground or plucks from the low branch of a bush, and as he rarely wanders far from his abode, the prize is carried to a particular spot, where the shell is broken with his strong bill and the animal devoured. Piles of these shells are often found that would half fill a hat crown. Although dwelling principally on the ground, he is ready and expert in catching his prey in the air, in which act his movements are full of animation—bounding from the ground with a sudden impulse to the height of 8 or 10 feet, his wings and tail are seen expanded for a scarcely appreciable instant, and his bill is heard to snap as he takes his prey, when he drops as suddeniy to the spot from which he sprang. Here he will stand for a moment, his legs apart, and his tail flirted on one side with a wild and ec- centric expression of exultation in his attitude, before he scampers under cover of the thick chaparral. At first I thought—as is the general impression among the Mexicans—that his powers of flight were extremely limited; but he will, when suddenly alarmed in Ave, 1847.] 285 open ground, rise with a light, quick motion, and sontinue his flight over the bushes for some hundred yards apparently with an ease that would argue the ability to sustain a longer flight. Though fond of shade and solitude, he will at an early hour in the morning, climb to the top of a straight leafless branch, there to sit and enjoy the first rays of the sun. He is said by the Mexican rancheros to build his nest of loose sticks either in a low thick bush, or in close cover on the ground. The eggs are about three in number, of a whitish colour. The Monthly Report of the Corresponding Secretary was read and adopted. Dr. Morton read some additions to Dr. Gibbes’ paper, sug - gested by the author, which were referred for examination to the Committee by whom the paper had been reported for publication in the Journal. ELECTION. Samuel Powel, Esq., of Philadelphia, was elected a Mem- ber. Stated Meeting, Aug. 3, 1847. Vict PresipENtT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Wilson presented a collection of Shells, consisting of 285 specimens of the following genera ; Aspergillum, 2: Teredo, 3: Pholas, 4: Solen, 12: Solemya, 2: Glauconome, 1: Osteodesma, 2: Thracia, 2: Cleidotherus, 1 - Lutraria, 6: Mactra, 15: Crassatella, 3: Amphidesma, 6: Psammobia, 8: Tellina, 17: Donax, 1: Cyrena, 3: Astarte. 4: Lima, 1: Hinnita, 1: Spondylus, 6: Placuna, 2: Terrebra- tula, 3: Mya, 3; Melania, 3: Neritina, 3: Cancellaria, 2: Turbinella, 1: Cardium, 8: Carnita, 3: Arca, 12: Pectuncu- lus, 8: Nucula, 1: Unio and Anodonta, 13: Hyria, 1: My- cetopus, 1: Etheria, 6: Chama, 10: Lithodomus, 1: Modiola, 2; Mytilus, 6: Pinna, 2: Perna, 1: Malleus, 2: Avicula, 12: Pedum, 1: Cytherea, Venus, Arthemis, 60: Pecten, 8: Pli- eatula, 3: Ostrea, 2: Lingula, 1: Crania, 1: Ungulina, 1: Natica, 1: Triton, 3: Cerithium, 2; Ptcrocera, 2: Pyrula, 1. 236 [Ave. 1847. Mr. William Pease, of New, York, presented four species of Terebratula. Mr. T. A. Conrad presented the following Shells ; Anceulotus dilatatus: Tellina : Pecten dislocatus; P. : Lucina radula: Pyrula piperata: Donax variabilis: Gnatho- don flexuosus: Cyclas Cerithium , 3: Buecinum : Columbella : Marginella : Unio ‘Su Dr. R. E. Griffith presented a collection of 264 specimens of Shells, of the genera Dolium, Harpa, Buccinum, Eburna, Cerithium, Pyrena, Crassitella, Haliotis, Purpura and Rici- nula, Dr. Thos. 8. Savage, of Cape Palmas, West Africa, pre- sented an interesting series of the nests, or habitations in clay, of the large white ant (‘Termes bellicosus) of that region, and also portions of dwellings and other structures, which had been subjected to the ravages of this insect. Also, numerous specimens, in spirits, of African reptiles, fishes, cheiroptera, &e. Among the reptiles are the following : Chameeleo dilepis, Leach; Typhlops, 2 species, Crocodilus, Ceras- tes, Bucephalus, Leptophis, Eupressis, Hemidactylus, Tropi- dolepis, Calotes, Hyla. Fishes,—Numerous specimens of Anabas and Leptorynechus. Of Cheiroptera,—Pteropus Hal- demani, and an undescribed species of Phyllostoma. Additional specimens of the Hessian fly, and portions of stems of the common raspberry plant, containmg the eggs and larve of an insect destructive to the plant. From Miss Morris, of Germantown. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Muscorum frondosorum nove species in Archipelago Indico et Japonia; conjunctis studiis scripserunt F. Dozy et J. K- Molkendoer. Lugduni Batavorum, 1844. From Dr. P. W. Korthals, of Leyden. Materials towards a history of the Coleoptera longicornia of the United States. By S.S. Haldeman, A.M. (From the Ava. 1847.] 237 Trans. Am. Phil. Soc. vol. x.)4to. Philada., 1847. From the author. Proceedings of the General Society of the Cincinnati, with the Act of Incorporation by the State of Pennsylvania, the By-Laws of the State Society, and the testimonial to the memory of General Washington, as adopted and commu- nicated to the meeting of the General Society, in may, 1800. 12mo. Philada., 1841. Also, Proceedings of the same, with the original institution of the order, and fac simile of the signatures of the original members of the State Society of Pennsylvania. 8vo. Phi- ladelphia, 1847. From the Standing Committee of the Cincinnati Society, through Dr. T. McKuen. Transactions of the Geological Society of Pennsylvania. Vol. 1, part2. From Dr. Griffith. Account of an Expedition from Pittsburg to the Rocky Moun- tains, performed in the years 1819-20, under the command of Major Stephen B. Long. Compiled by Edwin James. 2 vols. 8vo. and Atlas, 4to. Philada. 1823. A sketch of a Tour on the Continent in the years 1786-87. By James Edward Smith, M. D., F. R.S. 3 vols. 8vo. London, 1793. Enleitung im die Conchylienfenntniss nach Linne, von Johann 8. Schreter. 3vols. 8vo. Halle, 1786. From the same, in exchange. Annual Report of the Regents of the University of the State of New York, made to the Legislature, April 24, 1847. 8vo. Albany. From the Regents. Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3, No. 10. From the Associa- tion. Proceedings of the Boston Society of Natural History. Vol. 2, pp. 195 to 208. From the Society. ee Letters were read: From J. J. Bennet, Esq., Secretary of the Linnean Society 238 [Avue. 1847. of London, dated Jan. 19, 1847, acknowledging the receipt of certain Nos. of the Journal, recently transmitted at the re- quest of that Society. From the Librarian of the Boston Society of Natural His- tory, transmitting certain portions of the Proceedings of that Society, at the request of the Corresponding Secretary of the Academy. From Miss Morris, of Germantown, dated July 20, 1847, addressed to the Corresponding Secretary, communicating the following in relation to the Hessian fly, and to the insect destructive to the Raspberry plant: ‘‘] bave great pleasure in handing to you a box containing the larvee of the Cecidomyia, described by me in 1841, and a vial with those described by Dr. Fitch. The difference is so marked that I think no doubt can arise in the mind of any one that there are two species. The species in the vial were procured from New Jersey by Mr. Haines, and presented to me; from the same source | ex- pect pup from which I hope to obtain the flies in September. What Las retarded the earlier development of the Larve in the centre of the straw it is impossible to conjecture, but I fear now they will all perish, as they have not attained more than half their growth, and the straw is all dead and ready for the harvest. The three stems of raspberry which will accompany this, con- tain the nests of a Hymenopterous insect which has troubled us for some years, but whose history we were unacquainted with until this morning, when I discovered them, as as you will see, in the centre of the stem. In one you will find eggs, in another pup, and a third contains both pupe and the perfect insect. Tam not prepared to say whether it be the parent or larva that causes the greatest injury, as I have not seen the worm feeding op the pith, but am well assured that they are too injurious to suffer them to remain unnoticed. This spring, in many of the gardens in this neighbourhood, entire rows of raspberries were blighted by them; it is said the worm fed on the pith, but I am in doubt, as I found a worm, which I am inclined to think was LLepidopterous, in their nest, but may have been a starved speci- men of their own brood. Since writing the above, I find that the worm feeds on the pith ot the raspberry, and that its history is briefly this: the fly de- posits its eggs in the new shoot or summer yrowth in the fall, and the worm feeds on the pith until the following July, when it un- dergoes its transformation.” Aug. 1847.] 239 A communication from Mr. Haldeman, intended for pub- lication in the new series of the Journal of the Academy, en- titled “‘ Descriptions of Coleoptera, chiefly in the cabinet of J. L. Le Conte, M. D.,” was read, and referred to the fol- lowing committee: Dr. Leidy, Mr. Townsend, and Dr. Pick- ering. Dr. Leidy requested permission, which was given, to change the name of a new genus of Entozoa, described by him in Vol. 3, No. 5 of the Proceedings, from that of Cryptobia to Cryptoicus, the former name having been pre- occupied. By permission of the Society, reports were presented by - committees on papers by Dr. Gibbes, of South Carolina, Dr. J. L. Le Conte, of New York, and Dr. Joseph Leidy, read at recent meetings of the Society, recommending the same for publication in the Journal. The Reports were adopted. Stated Meeting, August 10, 1847. Vice President Morron in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Fifty-seven specimens of shells, of the following genera, presented by Dr. Wilson: Dolium, 1; Ostrea, 13; Aspergillum, 1; Chama, 1; Alasmo- donta, 2; Unio, 1; Anodonta, 1; Mesodesma, 1; Sanguinola- ria, 2; Pholas, 4; Solen, 3; Glauconome, 1; Cytherea, 5; Venus, 1; Solecurtis, 1; Pinna, 5; Circe, 1; Mactra, 1; Vul- cella; Pecten, 3; Cardita, 2; Trigonella, 1; Modiola, 1; Arca, 3; Monoceros, 1; Psammobia, 1. Mr. Conrad presented six specimens of shells of the genera Corbula, Cardita, Pecten, Cardium, Astarte and Ostrea. Mr. Cassin presented a collection of African shells, and also a specimen of Unio Nicklinianus. A number of shells from the Sandwich Islands. Presented by Mr. Gambel. 33 240 [Aue., 1847. Ege of Rhea Americana. From Miss Griffith. Eggs of Cassicus hemorrhous ? C. icteronotus, Tinamus, (two species ;) Opisthocomus cristatus, Tantalus loculator, Cyra- cus, Crotophaga major, Ardea alba, A. herodias, Crax alector, Psophia crepitans, Rallus , Platalea ajaja, Sterna cyanea, Charadrius ?, Also, one egg of a Che- lonian, and one of a Saurian. Presented by Mr. Wm. H. Edwards of New York. Six specimens of fossils from the clay near Baltimore, and a collection of Silurian fossils. From Mr. Wm. §. Pease, of New York. Anhydrous peroxide of Iron, from York county, Pennsylva- nia. Presented by Prof. Johnson. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Practical Geology and Mineralogy, with instructions for the qualitative analysis of minerals. By Joshua Trimmer, F. G. 8. 8vo. From Dr. Griffith, in exchange. Dizionario botanico-Italiano che compende i nomi volgari Italiani specialimenti Toscani a Vernacoli delle plante raccolti da diversi autori e dalla gente di campagnacol cor- respondente Latino Botanico compilatio dal dottore Otta- viano Targioni Tozzetti. 8vo. Firenze, 1825. From the same. The fables of Ausop, part 2d: in the Chinese language. From Mr. John Morrison, of New York, through Dr. Watson. Agricultural Botany: an enumeration and description of use- ful plants and weeds which merit the notice, or require the attention of American agriculturists. By Wm. Darlington, M. D. 12mo. Philadelphia, 1847. From the Author. American Quarterly Journal of Agriculture and Science ; conducted by Dr. E. Emmons and A. Osborn: Vol. 1. No. 2; Vol. 2, No. 1; Vol. 3, No.1; Vol. 4, No.1. From the Editors, in compliance with a request from the Society- Same work, for July, 1847. From the Editors. Ava., 1847.] 241 The following valuable worksw ere deposited by Dr. Wilson: North American Herpetology ; or a description of the reptiles inhabiting the United States. By John Edwards Holbrook, M.D. 5 vols. 4to. Philadelphia, 1842. Memoirs of the Geological Survey of Great Britain, and of the Museum of Economic Geologyin London. Vol. 1. 8yo. London, 1846. The London Geological Journal, No. 1, Sept. 1846. The Quarterly Journal of the London Geological Society, Vols. 1 and 2, and No. 1, Vol. 3. Abbildungen neuer oder unvollstindig bekanntner Amphi- bien, nach der Natur oder dem Leben entworfen, heraus- gegeben und mit einem erlintunden Texte begleitit von Dr. H. Schlegel. 1 vol. 8vo. and Atlas, folio. Diisseldorf, 1837— 1844, Essai sur la Physionomie des Serpens: par H. Scblegel. 2 vols. 8vo., and Atlas, folio. La Haye, 1847. Physical description of New South Wales and Van Diemen’s land. By P. E. De Strzelecki. 1 vol. 8vo. London, 1845. Voyage a Meéroé, au Fluve blanc au dela de Fazoql dans le midi du royaume de Sennar, a Syouah et dans cing autres oasis : fait dans les années 1819, °21 22. Par M. Fréderic Caillaud, de Nantes. 4 vols. 8vo., and Atlas, 2 vols. folio. The Medals of Creation: or first lessons in Geology, and in the study of organic remains. By Gideon A. Mantell, F. R. 8. 2 vols. 12mo.. London, 1846. Geological excursions round the Isle of Wight, and along the adjacent coast of Dorsetshire. vol. 8vo. London, 1846. Histoire naturelle des Animaux sans vertébres. Par. J. B. P. A. De Lamarck. 10th edition. 11 vols. 8vo. London 1835 to 1845. The Old Red Sandstone: or new walks in an old field. By ‘Hugh Miller. 2d edition. 1 vol. 12mo. Edinburgh, 1842. The British Miscellany. By James Sowerby, F. L. 8. 12 numbers: Also the Malacological and Conchological Magazine, conducted by Geo. B. Sowerby, F. L. 8. 2 Nos.: the whole bound in one volume, 8vo. 53 249 [Ava., 1847. The Book of the great Sea-Dragons, Ichthyosauri and Plesio- sauri, &c., with 30 plates copied from skeletons in the author’s collection of fossil organic remains, (deposited in the British Museum.) By Thomas Hawkins, Esq., F. G. 8. Folio. London. 1840. A letter was read from Dr. C. Hering, of Philadelphia, dated July 31, 1847, in reference to a Museum of Natural History in Leipzig, under the direction of Prof. Péppig, and asking on behalf of the latter, whether, and in what mode, certain objects of Natural History of this country could be procured for the same. Referred to the Zoological Committee. The following communication was read from Mr. Wm. 8. Pease, of N. Y., containmg some remarks ~a the localities whence the fossils presented by him this evening were ob- tained : “The basin of the Chesapeake and its tributaries, the Patapsco, Gunpowder, and other rivers, drain a vast number of shallow vallies, which have been rendered such by filling up with clay, mostly blue, sometimes varieyated, containing stone, iron ore in nodular masses with lignite and sulphuret of Iron. Near Balti- more the ore is very abundant, whilst the pyrites and lignite are predominant lower down. The whole rests upon hornblende rocks. This clay is often intercalated with ferruginous sands and grayel. These gravels often unite and form a hard conglomerate rock, as the ‘“‘ White rocks’ in the mouth of Patapsco river. The whole deposit is irregular in thickness, enlarging at some points and thinning off very much in others; varying much also in color and consistency. It is always, however, highly ferruginous in its composition, with one exception, and that in the case of a deep leaden or black colored clay, which, upon calcination, be- comes white. Hayden, in his Geological Essays, speaks of lignite having been found in this strata with shark’s teeth, &c., (doubtful) The fossils accompanying this were found in a thin yein passing through the above clay formation, which enlarges very much near the city of Baltimore, and forms the hill known as Telegraph or Federal Hill, associated with lignite and sulphuret of Iron. Cu- cullias have been found at Bear creek, (emptying into the Patap- sco) 5 or 6 miles from Baltimore, partly composed of earthy blue Phosphate of Iron. They were thrown out of an excavation fora well about 25 feet deep. With these, other fossil traces Ava., 1847.] 243 were recognized, but they were not sufficiently distinct to be re- ferred to any class. These vegetable impressions I would refer to the Henopteris or Glossopteris, and are new. In the Geological Report of the State, this formation is placed below the Tertiary.” The Chairman read a letter from Dr. Jeffries Wyman, dated Boston, Aug. 5, 1847, enclosing sketches of crania of a male and female supposed new species of Oyang, inhabiting Western Africa, brought to this country by Dr. Thomas §. Savage. Information on the subject was requested from the Society. Dr. Morton read a portion of a memoir designed for pub- lication in the Journal, “On the position of the Ear in the statuary and paintings of the civilized nations of antiquity ;” which was referred to a Committee consisting of Mr. Gliddon, Dr. Pickering and Dr. Wilson. Dr. Leidy presented an instance of a curious optical illusioa arising from a peculiarity in the structure of the intervertebral substance of man. He stated the external third of each disk to be composed of concentric layers of non-elastic or white fibrous tis- sue, the fibres of which are oblique, those of the alternate layers crossing each other. This arrangement, when viewed from either side, gives rise to the appearance of alternating layers of white fibrous tissue, indicated by its shining whiteness and opacity, and of cartilage, indicated by its semi-transparency and dulness, and this is actually stated to be the arrangement in anatomical works generally, and even in the Jate and very excellent Physiological Anatomy of Messrs. Todd and Bowman. The illusion is well marked: if a disk be held side-ways in the hand, and pins be stuck in what seem to be the alternating layers of cartilage, and then viewed from the other side, the pins will actually appear to have changed their position from the cartilage to the fibrous layers. Dr. L. explained the illusion by supposing it to be produced in the one case from the rays-of light reflected from the numerous points of the fibres, when the eye is opposed to them, giving rise to a divided, and consequently wiite, opaque surface, while in the other direction, the rays of light being partly transmitted by the extremities of the fibres, give rise to the characteristic dulness and semitransparency of cartilage. 244 [Auc., 1847. By permission of the Society, a report was received from the Committee on Prof. Haldeman’s paper, containing de- scription of new Coleopterous Insects of the United States, recommending the same for publication in the new series of the Journal. The report was adopted. Stated Meeting, August 1T, 1847. Vick PRESIDENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS T0 MUSEUM. Nests of Cassicus icteronotus, and of C. hemorrhous. From Mr. Wm. H. Edwards, of New York. A collection of Reptilia, in spirits. From Mr. Amory Edwards. Fine specimen of crystallized. Sulphate of Strontian. Pre- sented by Dr. Wilson. Native grains of Platinum. Presented by Dr. Joseph Leidy. Mounted specimen of Argus giganteus. From Mr. Richard Oakford. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Essai de Formules botaniques, representant les caractéres des plantes par des signes analytiques qui remplacent les phrases descriptives, kc. Par N. E. Seringe et Guillard. 4to. Paris: 1836. From Dr. R, E. Griffith. Histoire naturelle drolatique et philosophique des Professeurs du Jardin des Plantes, &c. Par Isid. 8. De Gosse. 12mo. Paris, 1847. From the same. The following were also received from Dr. Griffith, in ex- change :— Voyages d’un Naturaliste, &e. Par M. E. Descourtilz. 3 vols. 8vo. Paris, 1809. A Narrative of four voyages to the South Seas, Pacific Ocean, &e., &e., from the year 1822 to 1831. By Capt. Benjamin Morrell. 8yvo. New York, 1832. Ava., 1847.] 245 Lepidoptera Americana ; or original figures of the Moths and Butterflies of North America, &. By Titian R. Peale. Vol. 1, No. 1. 4to. Philadelphia, 1833. Dr. Wilson deposited the following :— The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. By Audubon & Bachman. No. 23. Folio. The Genera of Birds. By George R. Gray, F.R.S. 4to. No. 37. The London Geological Journal. No.2. Feb. 1847. The Annals and Magazine of Natural History. No. 127. May, 1847. The Quarterly Journal of the Geological Society of London. No. 10. May, 1837. The Birds of Australia. By John Gould. No. 27. Folio. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. M. 8. Beagle, under the command of Capt. Fitzroy, R. N., during the years 1832 to 1836.—Birds: by John Gould, Esq., 5 parts :—Fishes; by the Rev. Leonard Jenyns, M. A. F. L. S., 4 parts.— Reptiles: by Thomas Bell, Esq. 4 parts. to. Geology of the Beagle: 1st part, The structure and distribu- tion of Coral reefs, by Charles Darwin, M. A., &.; 2d part, Geological observations on the Volcanic Islands visited during the Voyage, by Charles Darwin. 8vo. A History of British Starfishes, and other animals of the class Echinodermata. By Edward Forbes. 8vo. London, 1841. Museum Leverianum: containing select specimens from the Museum of the late Sir Ashton Lever, with descriptions in Latin and English. By George Shaw, M. D., F. R.S. 4to. 1792. On the fossil remains of the soft parts of Foraminifera dis- covered in the Chalk and Flint of the South-east of Eng- land. By Gideon Algernon Mantell, Esq., &c., (from the Philosophical Transactions, part 4, for 1846.) 4to. Lon don, 1846. From the author. 246 [Aua., 1847. A letter was read from Dr. Thomas 8S. Savage, dated Mid- dletown, Conn., August 11th, 1847, in reference to the collec- tion of objects of Natural History received from him, and announced at last meeting; also informing the Society of his intention to communicate some facts relative to the habits of some of the animals sent. Dr. Leidy read a paper intended for publication in the Proceedings, entitled “Description and Anatomy of a new and curious subgenus of Planaria,’’ which was referred to a Committee consisting of Mr. Haldeman, Dr. Pickering and Dr. Griffith. Mr. Gambel presented a revised copy of his “‘ Remarks on the Birds of California,’’ intended for publication in the Jour- nal. Referred to Messrs. Cassin, Townsend and Woodhouse. Steted Meeting, Aug. 24, 1847. Dr. GRIFFITH in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Twenty-three mineralogical and geological specimens from Lake Superior: and a specimen of a new species of Colu- ber from the same. Presented by Mr. Moss. Mr. Robert Kilvington presented 1035 specimens, comprised in 345 species, of British Lepidoptera, viz: of Diurna 57 species, Crepuscularia 18 species, Pomeridiana 39 species, Nocturna 124 species, Semidiurna 107 species. Eggs of forty-eight species of European Birds, and of thirteen American species; an Asterias ; thirty-five species of Ame- rican Lepidoptera, and a number of foreign Coleoptera, and 4 species of Crustacea. From Dr. T. B. Wilson. A prepared specimen of Squatina Dumerili, taken in Dela- ware Bay. Presented by Messrs. Wilson, Cassin, and Leidy. Ave., 1847.) 247 DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Description of a new species of Salamander. By Lewis R. Gibbes, of Charleston, 8. C. (From the Boston Journal of Nat. Hist., Vol. 5. No. 1.) From the author. Twelfth, 13th, and 14th Memoirs with reference to the law of Storms in India. By Henry Piddington. From the author. Commentary on the Hindu System of Medicine. By T. A. Wise, M.D. 8yo. Calcutta, 1845. From H. Piddington, Esq. ° Tconographie Ornithologique: publié par O. Des Murs. Livs. - 1—8. 4to. Presented by Mr. Edward Wilson, of Wales. Manuscript «Geological Chart (coloured,) of the Silurian rock formations of North America. By Richard C. Taylor, F.G. 8S. From Mr. Taylor. Dr. Leidy read a paper accompanied by drawings, of two new species of Planaria, which was referred to the following Committee: Dr. Griffith, Mr. Haldeman, and Dr. Pickering. Dr. Leidy, stated in reference to the specimen of Squatina Dumerili, presented this evening, that it was a rare species. A description of it was first given by Mr. Leseuer in Vol. 1 of the Journal of this Society. His description is taken from three specimens, all males, each of which had six or seven distinct — rows of teeth, 25 teeth in each row. The specimen on the table is a female, is four feet long, and has ten distinct rows of teeth, counting from before backwards, and five teeth in each row, in the lower jaw; and nine rows with the same number in each row, in the upper jaw. ‘The intestinal canal is very simple, and has but one convolution in its course. The oesopha- gus is capacious and undefined from the stomach: both are strongly muscular. 34 248 [Aua., 1847. Meeting for Business, Aug. 31, 1847. Mr. Cassin in the Chair. The Committee on the following papers by Dr. Leidy, read 17th and 24th inst., reported in favour of publication in the Proceedings. Description and Anatomy of anew and curious sub-genus of Planaria. By Josreru Lery, M. D. In October, 1840, Prof. S. S. Haldeman published a description of an animal under the name of Planaria gracilis.* Upon examination I detected such a remarkable Heculiarity in the digestive apparatus as led me to investigate its anatomy in detail, and to form for it a separate sub-genus, characterised as follows: Phagocata, oblonga, plano-convexa, nuda, contractilis, mucosa, antica auricularia. Aperture du, ventrales, ad os et generationem pertinens. Proboscides multe. P. gracilis, nigricans, lateribus parallelis, postero acuto abrupte, plerumque antico recto; oculis duobus. Long. 9lin., lat. L lin. Hab- itat in fontibus Pennsylvanie. Description. Oblong, limaceform, naked, convex superiorly, flat inferiorly, very contractile ; sides ordinarily parallel, convex when the animal is in a contracted state, convergent anteriorly when elongated ; anterior extremity with a lateral triangular auricular appendage, straight in front, by contraction becoming convex or concave ; poste- rior extremity abruptly pointed ; ocelli two, anterior composed of an oblong, semi-transparent (nervous?) mass with an intensely black dot of pigmentum at the internal posterior part; ventral apertures two; oral aperture a little less than one-third the length of the body from the posterior extremity, and very dilatable ; generative aperture half- way between the oral aperture and posterior extremity. Colour black or iron gray, and some younger specimens latericeous. This animal I have only found in abundance in the neighborhood of Prof. Haldeman’s residence, near Columbia, Pa. In a spring in front of his house, thousands of them may be seen gliding along the bottom; some of them occasionally creep up the sides to the surface of the * Supplement to number one of ‘‘A Monograph of the Limniades, or Fresh- water Univalve Shells of North America,’’ containing deseriptions of ap- parently new animals in different classes, &c. ‘By 8. S. Haldeman. Phila- delphia, 1840. Aug., 1847.] 249 water, turn upon the back, and by making the ventral surface con- cave, float about in the manner of the Limnziade. It appears to be carnivorous in habit, or at least it attaches itself to animal matter, dead or living, in preference to vegetable matter. When irritated, it throws out a considerable quantity of very tenacious mucus. In structure it appears to be intermediate between the entozoic Distomata and the annulose Hirudine. I could not detect any trace of annulation, but I think that this alone would hardly be sufficient to place it lower than the latter animals, because, in a closely allied animal, the Gordcus aquaticus, although there is no annulation in the perfect animal, yet in the embrvo state I find it to exist. The whole animal is composed of a delicate granular structure : the only approach to muscular fibre is in the longitudinal striation of the integument rendered more distinct by the pigmentum nigrum, a ra- diated appearance around the oral orifice, and a faint transverse and longitudinal arrangement of the granules entering into the composi- tion of the proboscides, seen more or less distinctly in the continued movements of these organs when slightly compressed beneath the microscope. The digestive cavity presents the same dendritic arrangements as in Planarie generally,* but instead of posessing a single sucker or proboscis, the full grown animal has not less than twenty-three ; vary- ing, however, in this respect from three upwards, according to the age of the animal. One of these proboscides joins the digestive cavity at the posterior part of the anterior division, as usual, the others join the remaining two divisions at their internal side in their course back- wards. They are considerably longer, but narrower than in P. lactea,} and when not in use are closely packed together within the animal, so that when the latter is placed beneath the microscope and slightly compressed, they will be seen pressing upon one another in such a manner, that if one changes its position, it will be instantly occupied _ by another. Those which are formed last are smallest, but they soon gain their full size. When the animal feeds, the whole of them are protruded from the oral orifice, the longest extending out full one-third the length of the body. As they are all convergent to the same orifice, when fully pro- truded the animal becomes puckered up and increased in breadth at the expense of the length. In this state the anterior extremity is erected and the posterior brought nearly to a right angle with it, so that it looks as if sitting upon its prey apparently unconcerned, with its pro- *Duges, An. Sc. Nat. tlb. 250 [Ava., 1847. boscides, which writhe and twist about as if they were totally distinct organisms. If one of these animals be punctured or cut, one or more of the proboscides will be immediately protruded as if they existed under pressure, and will move about in all directions appearing as if entirely without the controlof the animal; orif one of the animals be crushed between two slips of glass so that the pruboscides will be torn from their attachment, they move about involuntarily, always in a line for- wards or towards the mouth, which they do by contracting the stom- achal extremity towards the oral, the latter remaining fixed. In this progressive course they constantly contract and dilate; the mouth opens and any matter in its vicinity rushes in, when it is closed and the matter passes onwards, and by the alternate contraction and dila- tation of different parts of the same tube, it is thrown backwards and forwards several times, and finally violently expelled at the tornex - tremity. When they have escaped from the ruptures of the tegument produced by crushing, or when snipped off with a pair of scissors whilst an animal is feeding, they will present the same curious pheno- mena. In fact these curious independent movements caused me at first to mistake the organs for viviparous young, and it was not until I had frequently observed the animal feeding, and examined its struc- ture beneath the microscope, after having fed them upon coloured food, that I was convinced of their true nature. Excrementitious matter is expelled from the digestive cavity through the same course by which the food enters. Circulation. There appears to be nothing peculiar about the arrangement of the blood vessels, if such they be; the term being ap- plied to two semitransparent lines passing along each side of the ven- tral surface, and a third along the middle of the dorsal surface, the three freely communicating with each other by transverse lines and numerous smaller branches, the whole forming an extensive reticula- tion upon the surface of the body. At the anterior part of each ventral line, I distinctly observed a dilatation to exist. Generative apparatus. As in all Planarve the animal is androgy- nous. The penis is a bulbiform organ placed between the oral and generative orifice with its point directed towards the latter. The point is straight, or contorted; the bulbous portion is also changeable, sometimes elongated, at others flattened or increased in breadth at the expense of the length. The bulb shows through the thin intega- ment, and without close examination may be taken for a third orifice. The penis is perforate, and has a dilated cavity within the bulb. Im- mediately above the penis I indistinctly observed a somewhat lobated organ, which appeared to join the penis at its base by a narrow por- Ava., 1847.] ‘ 251 tion. This is probably the testicle, for it was the only thing I could discover in connection with the genitalia to correspond to it. In two individuals only could I see part of the female organs. This consisted in two sigmoid tubes or oviducts, which could be traced from the generative orifice a short distance forwards, one on each side of the penis. I could detect no traces of a nervous system. The eyes, so called, have been previously described. It is still a question with many, whether these, as well as the corresponding deep black points existing in very many of the lower animals of the inver- tebrate series, subserve the purpose of eyes; and some anatomists have even gone ‘so far as to deny the sense of sight to the compara- tively perfect eye of many gasteropodous mollusca. The experiments which are made to test the existence of this sense in those organs for the most part are exceedingly fallacious, generally being performed by concentrating the light upon them through alens. Insects, and even serpents and frogs, I find will frequently bear the impression of a sudden glare of light produced in this way without any inconveni- ence, at other times they will seek to avoid it, but Helix ulbolabris will occasionally retract its tenticle when so distufbed, and Phagocata will frequently raise its anterior extremity and move from the too great light. From their position, which is always such as to be well exposed to the influence of the light, from their structure, imperfect as it is in many cases, and their connection with the nervous system when this exists, I am led to conclude that in all cases they are or- gans of vision. The general sensibility of Phagocata is very considerable, that is it contracts with great readiness from the slightest disturbance. The contraction has much the appearance of being involuntary and is very like that of the Meduwse, When an individual is irritated at any point, contraction commences and thence rapidly extends throughout the animal, and the only appearance of volition is in the effort to escape, but if the touch be too rude, apparently involuntary contraction takes place suddenly and appears to destroy all power of volition for the moment; the animal however soon revives from this state and glides off with its accustomed speed. Some experiments which I performed upon Phagocata confirm the statements that the Planarve are capable of repairing injuries. When an individual is cut into two, both parts after a time become distinct and perfect animals. Division carried to a greater extent in some instances results in as many perfect animals as there are parts, but generally I have found that when cut into more than three or four 252 : [Aua. 1847. pieces, the intermediate pieces are apt to die, and sometimes the extremities do not survive. { exhibit a drawing of Phagocata gracilis, from Prof. 8S. 8. Halde- man. A drawing of two individuals feeding upon a piece of a Lumbricus. Do., representing a ventral surface with the proboscides protruded. Do., representing the digestive and generative apparatuses, Do., representing five of the proboscides highly magnified. Description of two new species of Planaria. By Joseru Leipy, M. D. Planaria maculata. Superiorly convex, faintly blackish or brown- ish with irregular colorless macule ; inferiorly flat, colorless ; anteriorly trapezoidal; posteriorly spatulate or oval; eyes two, anterior, proxi- mate, composed of alarge semi-transparent mass with a reniform mass of pigmentum nigrum at the postero-internal part; oral aperture ventral, one-third the length of the body from the posterior extrem- jty; proboscis large and cylindrical. Length 2} lines; breadth 3 line. Found in moderate abundance, in the ditches below the city, creeping upon the submerged stems of aquatic plants. Subgenus. Prostoma, Duges. Mouth anterior and terminal. Prostoma margnatum. Blackish, narrow lanceolate, anteriorly truncate ; marginate, margin delicately striate ; mouth large; pro- boscis large and oblong; eyes two, anterior, distant, each consisting of two round masses of pigmentum nigrum in contact with each other, and of which one is larger than the other; generative orifice one- fourth the length of the body from the posterior extremity. Length 1 line. A single specimen found with the preceding ; but probably not rare, for from its small size,it escaped my notice while collecting some of the former, and it was not until I got home that I detected its existence in the vessel of water containing the others. The anatomy of P. maculata does not differ from that of Planaria lactea as given by Duges in the Annales des Sciences Naturelles. In Prostoma marginatum the digestive ‘cavity has not the dendritie ar- rangement of Planaria, but merely consists of a large capacious sac extending as far back as the posterior third of the body, and having a ceecum upon each side of the proboscis. The penis has a yellow color and consists of a round granular mass, with a moderately long and bent spiculum projecting from its posterior part. The arrangement of a female apparatus I failed to trace. Amendments to Articles 7 and 8, of Chap. vil. of the By- laws, proposed by Dr. Bridges, were adopted. These Articles now read as follows: - Aug. 1847.] 253 “« Art. viiimMembers may borrow books, the property of the Academy, from the Librarian, on signing a promissory note for fifty dollars, which shall become void on the book being returned.” “ Art. viii—But no works shall be loaned from the Hall, on any account whatever, except those marked with an aste- risk (thus *) in the Catalogue, unless by an affirmative ballot vote of three-fourths of the members present when the applica- tion is made; and in case of deposited books the written consent of the depositor having been previously obtained : the name of the borrower and the title of the book to be re- corded on the minutes, and security given for its safe return by note or otherwise for the full value thereof, according to the estimate of the Librarian or Library Committee.”’ On motion of Dr. Leidy, a committee was appointed to examine into the expediency of converting the present lecture room into a portion of the Museum, and also to ascertain what alterations may be necessary for this purpose, &c., and to report thereon as soon as practicable. Committee, Drs. Bridges, Wilson and Morton. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA. Vou. ITI. SEPT. AND OCT., 1847. Nowe: Stated Meeting, September T, 1847. Vick PresipENT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. Wilson presented sixty-five specimens of recent Corallines, comprising forty species of the genera Fungia, Polyphyllia, Caryophyllia, Megaphyllia, Meandrina, Agaricia, Tridaco- phyllia, Astrea, Asteriopora, Oculina, Gemmipora, Madrepora, Palmipora, Alocopora, Porites, Pocillopora, Tubipora, Porites, Gorgonia. Mr. Sowerby, of London, presented specimens of Gorgonia palma, and G. petechizans. Mr. T. A. Conrad presented an extensive collection of Fossils, . consisting of about 2000 specimens, from the Miocene of France, and the Eocene, Cretaceous, Oolitic, ;Mountain lime- stone, and Silurian formations of England and France. A small collection of Minerals from Chester county, Pennsyl- vania. Presented by Mr. Percival. Fine specimen of crystallized Carbonate of Lead, from North Carolina. From. Mr. W. 8. Vaux. Saturnia cecropia, and S. promethea, three fine specimens. From Mr. Benjamin H. Kern. Dr. C. D. Meigs presented a living specimen of ‘T'rionyx ferox, from Georgia. = 35 bo or for) [Sepr. 1847. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. A history of the molluscous animals from the counties of Aber- deen, Kincardine, and Banff, to which is appended an account of the Cirripedal animals of the same district. By Wm. Macgillivray, A. M. 12mo. London: 1843. From Mr. Peterson. An account of the measurement of two sections of the Meridional Are of India, bounded by the parallels of 18°, 3’, 15/’, 24°, 7’, 11’, and 29°, 80’, 48’. Conducted under the orders of the Hon. East India Co., by Lieut. Col. Everest, F. R. 8S. &e. 1 vol. 4to., and an Atlas 4to. London, 1847. From the Author, by order of the Court of Directors of the E. I. Co. The Literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College, Vol. 8. No. 10. From the Associa- tion. American Journal of Agriculture and Science, conducted by Dr. E. Emmons and A. Osborn, Esq. August, 1847. From the Editors. Monografia del genere Murex ossia enumerazione delle princi- pali speciei dei Terreni sopracretacei dell’ Italia, per Giovanni Michellotti. 4to. Vicenza, 1841. From Mr. Conrad. Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York. Vol. 4. Nos. 10, 11. July, 1847. From the Lyceum. Experiments and observations on Animal Heat, and the inflam- mation of combustible bodies. By A. Crawford, M.D.,F. R.S., &e. 1 vol. 8vo. 2d edition. London, 1788. From Mr. L. J. Germain. Experimental researches on Electricity. By Michael Farraday, D. OC. L., F. BR. S., &c. 2 vols. 8vo. London, 1839-44. From the same. Dr. Wilson deposited the following : The Genera of Diurnal Lepidoptera, &e. By Edward Double- day, F. L. S., illustrated by Wm. C. Hewitson. Parts 1-9. Ato. Szpr, 1847.] 257 Catalogues of the Specimens of Mammalia, Birds, Reptiles, Insects, Crustacea, and Myriapoda, and a list of the Osteo- logical specimens, contained in the British Museum. Odontography ; or a treatise on the comparative anatomy of the teeth, their physiological relations, mode of development, and microscopic structure in the vertebrate animals. By Richard Owen, F. R.S. 2 vols. large 8vo. London, 1840, ’45. A geological survey of the Yorkshire Coast; describing the strata and fossils occurring between the Humber and the Tees, from the German Ocean to the Plain of York. By the Rey. George Young, A. M., and John Bird, Artist. 4to. Whitby, 1822. Travels in Lycia, Milyas, and the Cibyratis, in company with the late Rev. E. T. Daniell. By Lieut. T. A. B. Spratt, R. N., and Prof. Edward Forbes, F. R. 8. 2 vols. 8vo. London, 1847. Illustrations of Indian Zoology, chiefly selected from the collec- tion of Major General Hardwicke, F. R. 8S. By John Edward Gray, F. R. 8S. 2 vols. folio. London, 1830-34. A History of British Reptiles. By Thomas Bell, F. R. S. 8vo. London, 1837. An Analysis of the natural classifications of Mammalia, for the use Of Students and Travellers. By T. Edward Bowdich, F. B.S. ° 8ve., . Paris, 1821. An Introduction to the Ornithology of Cuvier. By T. E. Bow- dich. 8vo. Paris, 1821. Elements of Conchology, including the fossil genera and the animals. By T. E. Bowdich. 8vo. Paris, 1822. The Canadian Naturalist ; a series of conversations on the natural history of Lower Canada. By P. H. Gosse. 8vo. London 1840. A Manual of British vertebrate animals. By the Rey. Leonard Jenyns, M.A. 8yo. Cambridge, 1835. ? 258 [Sepr. 1847. Description des Coquilles et des Polypiers fossiles des terrains tertaires de la Belgique. Par. P. H. Nyst. 4to. Bruxelles, 1843. Manual d’Ornithologie, ou tableau systematique des Oiseaux qui se trouvent en Europe, &c. Par J. C. Temminck. 2nd. edition. 4me Partie. Paris, 1840. Revue critique des Oiseaux d’Europe: Par Mr. H. Shlegal. 8yo. Leide, 1844. Joannis Raii synopsis methodica Avium et Piscium, cum ap- pendica et iconibus. 12mo. Londoni. 1713. Ornithologia, sive synopsis methodica sistens Avium divisionem in ordines, sectiones, genera, species, ipsarumque varietates. A. D. Brisson. 2 vols. 8 vo. Lugduni Batavorum, 1743. Dissertatio Zoologica enumerationem Mammalium Capensium continens. Auctore Johanne Smuts. 4to. Leide, 1832. Systema Avium: acutor Dr. Johannes Wagler; pars prima. Stuttgartiz, 1827. The London Geological Journal, No. 8. May, 1847. The Annals and Magazine of Natural History. Nos. 128, 129, 130. Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London: January 12th to May 25th, 1847. Sowerby’s Mineral Conchology, Nos. 106 to 113. Report of a Committee appointed by the British Association, to consider of the rules by which the nomenclature of Zoology may be established on a uniform and permanent basis. 8vyo. pamphlet. Report on the recent progress and present state of Ornithology. By H. E. Strickland, M. A., &c. 8vo. pamphlet. London, 1845. Dr. Morton read a paper by Dr. R. W. Gibbes, of Colum- bia, S. C., describing new species of Squalides from the Ter- Sept. 1847. ] 259 tiary Beds of that State ; which was referred to a Committee con- sisting of Drs. Leidy, Morton, and Pickering. A letter was read from Col. Everest, dated Claybrook Hall. Lutterworth, England, July 17th, 1847, presenting his work announced this evening. —_————- — The Committee, to whom was referred the consideration of the propriety of altering the Lecture room, and adapting it to the purposes of the Museum, reported in favor of the same, and submitted a plan, which was approved; and resolutions were adopted, authorizing the Committee to commence the work as soon as practicable. Stated Meeting, September 10, 1847. i Dr. McKuEN in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Dr. F. Roemer, of Berlin, presented the following fossils from the Green Sand of Germany. Thracia 1 species; Mya 1; Heteropora 1; Tragos 1; Exogyra 3; Isocardia 1; Ser- _pula 1; Nucleolites 1; Terebratula 6; Ceriopora 2; Alo-. colites 1; Scyphias 2, Ostrea 1; Belemnites 1; and 1 ear bone of a fish. Also, one specimen of Echinolampus, from the Middle Tertiary of Germany. Dr. T. B. Wilson presented the following mounted specimens of Mammalia. Hylobates leuciscus, H. syndactylus, Ateles beel- zebub, Sus scropha from Java, Felis leopardus, F. minuta, I’. leo (young,) Ursus labiatus, Paradoxurus typus, Manis pentadac- tylus, Antelope tragulus, A. pygmzea, Viverra indica, V. genetta, Cervus muntjac, Moschus javanicus, Didelphis cancrivora, D. minuta, Canis vulpes (Europe,) Talpa Europcoea, Sciurus stria- tus, Lutra barang, Herpestes mungoz, Dicoteles torquatus, 260 [Sepr. 1847 Bradypus tridactylus, (2 specimens,) Dasypus novemeinctus, (young) Myrmecophaga didactyla, M. bivittata. Also, an albino Kangaroo, from the Menagerie of the King of Holland, an unique specimen, and supposed to be anew species. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Diagnoses Conchyliorum terrestrium et fluviatilium. Von E. A. Rossmissler. Hefts. 1 & 2. From Dr. R. E. Griffith. Gelehrte anzeigen herausgegeben mitglieden der f. bayer. Acade- mie der Wissenschaften. Vols. 16—23. From the Academy. Die ueberbleibsel der altigyptischen menschenrace. Von Dr. Franz Pruner. 4to. Munich, 1846. From the same. Abhandlungen der Mathematisch-physikalischen classe der Keeniglich bayer, Acad, der Wissenchaften. Vol. 4, p. 3. 4to. From the same. Bulletin der Keeniglich Acad. der Wissenschaften. An. 1846, Nos. 1—7, 1847. From the same. Almanach der K. bayer. Acad. der Wissense. fur das jahr 1847. From the same. The organization of Trilobites, deduced from their living affini- ties, with a systematic review of the species hitherto described. By Heermann Burmeister, M. D. Edited from the German by Profs. Bell and Forbes, Folio. London: 1847. Deposited by Dr. Wilson. The Genera of Birds, by George Robert Gray. Nos. 38 and 39. 4to. From the same. The Birds of Australia. By John Gould. Parts 28 and 29; Folio. From the same. The Zoology of the Voyage of H. B. M. Erebus and Terror. No. 10, 4to. From the same. Oken’s Isis; 38 vols., from 1817 to 1844, inclusive. 4to. Also No. 4, for 1847. From the same. Archiv. fiir naturgeschichte. Von A. F. A. Wiegmann; 11 vols., 1835 to 1846, and No. 1, 1847. From the same. Histoire naturelle des Oiseaux d’Afrique; per Francois Le yail- lant. 6 vols. folio, Paris, 17991808. From the same. SEPT. 1847. ] 261 Histoire naturelle des Oiseaux; par M. de Buffon, ( planches en- luminees, ). 10 vols., folio. Paris, 1771—1786. From the same. Revue Zoologique, par la Société Cuvierienne. Nos. 3, 4, 5, and 6, for 1847. From the same. Petrifactions recueillies en Amerique par Mr. Alex. de Hum- boldt, et par Mr. Charles Degenhardt; deécrites par Léopold de Buch. Folio. Berlin, 1839. From Mr. T. A. Conrad. Sur les spirifers et les Orthis ; explication de deux planches, qui representant la structure des ces coquilles. Par Leopold de Buch. Folio. From the same. Explication de trois planches d’Ammonites; par Leopold de Buch. 4to. texte, planches folio. From the same. American Journal of Science and Arts, 2d series, No. 11. Sept., 1847. From the Editors. On the growth of plants in closely glazed cases. By N. E. Ward, F. R. S. 8vo. London; 1842. From the author, through Dr. Asa Gray. Note upon Carex loliacea, Lin. and C. gracilis, Ehrh. By Asa Gray, (from Silliman’s Journal, vol. 4.) From the author. Voyage botanique le long des cétes septentrionales de la Norveége depuis Drontheim jusqu’ au Cap nord: par Ch. Martins. From the author. List of Osteological specimens in the’ collection of the British Museum. 12mo. London, 1847. From the Trustees. Catalogue général de Hector Bossange. Paris, 1848-47. From _E. Bossange, Esq., of New York. A letter was read from the Royal Academy of Sciences of Munich, acknowledging the receipt of certain Nos. of the Pro- ceedings. Dr. Hallowell read a description of a new species of Coluber, (C: venustus, Hal. ) from Copper Harbor, Lake Superior, which was referred toa committee, viz: Dr. Pickering, Mr. Phillips and Prof. Baird, of Carlisle. Dr. Leidy read a paper on the Fossil Horse of America. Re- ferred to Drs. Morton, Hallowell and Pickering. “ 262 aks [ Szpr. 1847. Mr. Townsend exhibited a living specimen of the common mouse, (Mus musculus ) which possessed the remarkable pecu- liarity of uttering notes resembling those of a singing bird. The notes were uttered in very rapid succession, and although weak, could be readily distinguished at the distance of several yards, The animal was recently taken in an ordinary trap, by a lady residing in the Northern Liberties, Dr. Warrington, of England, exhibited and explained the modus operandi of an instrument of his own invention, which he called Spirometer, the object of which he stated to be, to test the capacity of the lungs in health and disease. ‘The amount of cubic inches of air the lungs are capable of expelling, being always in proportion to the height of the imdividual, and a scale attached to the instrument indicating with accuracy any dimin- ished capacity, a standard of health and disease could be thus readily fixed, and the disorganization or contraction of the organ ” . early detected Meeting for Business, Sept. 28, 1847. Mr. Puitirps in the Chair. The Committee to whom was referred the following paper, by Dr. Leidy, reported in favor of publication in the Proceedings. On the Fossil Horse of America. By JoszpaH Levy, M. D. The fact of the existence of fossil remains of the borse in America has been generally received with a good deal of incredulity, arising, perhaps, from the mere fact being stated of their having been found, often without even mention- ing the associate fossils, and in all cases, previous to Mr. Owen,* without des- cribing the specimen. At present their existence being fully confirmed, it is probably as much a wonder to naturalists as was the first sight of Pegs of the Voyage of the Beagle, part 1. By R. Owen, Esq. London, 840. Supr. 1847.] 263 the horses of the Spaniards to the aboriginal inhabitants of the country, for it is very remarkable that the genus Equus should have so entirely passed away from the vast pastures of the western world, in after ages to be replaced by a foreign species to which the country has proved so well adapted; and it is impossible, in the present state of our knowledge, to conceive what could have been the circumstances which have been so universally destructive to the genus upon one continent, and so partial in its influence upon the other. The remains are by no means unfrequent, and according to William Cooper, the author of a paper entitled ‘“ Notices of Big-Bone Lick,” in Featherstonhaugh’s “Journal of Geology,”’* the first printed notice of them occurs in Mitchell’s “Catalogue of Organic Remains,”} upon referring to which, I find mentioned pp. 7, 8, that a cervical vertebra and teeth of the horse were found associated with the Mastodon, &c., in a tract extending from the base of the Neversink Hills to Bordentown, New Jersey. The author of ‘‘ Notices, &c.” also men- tions the remains of the horse being found at Big-Bone Lick, but speaks doubt- fully as to the authenticity of such remains having been found in a fossil state in this country, and says, p. 208, ‘‘I saw nothing in support of it myself, nor have I met with any person who could answer for such a fact from his own careful observation.” Dr. Harlant mentions the sparing existence of fossil remains of the horse, which, from the heading of his chapter, he has referred to the same species as the existing Equus caballus. The most satifactory account, however, with which I am acquainted, is given by Mr. Owen in the Zoology of the Voyage of the Beagle, Part 1, Fossil Mam- malia, p. 109, and is derived from two teeth obtained by Mr. Darwin in South America. One of them, a superior molar, was far decomposed, and Mr. Owen observes, “‘ every point of comparison that could be established, proved it to differ from the tooth of the common Equus caballus only in a slight inferiority of size.” The other a superior left molar, was found with the Mastodon, &c.., in the province of Entre Rios, and is figured (PI. xxxii. figs. 13 and 14,) in the work. One of the figures represents an antero-lateral view of the tooth, and is rather smaller in size, and is much more curved than in the corresponding tooth of the recent E. caballus. The other figure represents the crown of the tooth and indicates the diameters to be somewhat less. From what Mr. Owen remarks in the “ British Fossil Mammalia,’ this is a species which he proved to be distinct from all European fossil and existing species, and from the greater degree of curvature of the upper molars|| he has designated it under the name of Equus curvidens. In the cabinet of the Academy there are a num- ber of specimens of American fossil horse teeth, which I refer to two distinct and well marked species. The first of these I consider as identical with the Equus curvidens, of which *Philada., 1831, vol, 1, p. 208. tNew York, 1826. {Med. and Phys. Researches, Philada., 1835, p. 267. gLondon, 1846, p. 398. \Odontography. By R. Owen, Esq., London, 1840-45, vol. 1, p. 576. ’ 36 204 (Serr. 1847. there are ten specimens of permanent molars, one a superior posterior molar of the left side, and five inferior molars of the right side, and four of the left side. These were all obtained from that celebrated fossil bone deposit, Big-Bone Lick, Kentucky, where they were associated with the Megalonyz, Mastodon, &c., and are a part of a donation to the Academy by Mr. J. P. Wetherill. The ex- ternal cementum is almost entirely removed, and the color, which is brown in the inferior molars, a bluish black in the superior molars, corresponds with that of their fossil associates. They are very little inferior in size, both in length and diameter, to the corresponding teeth of the recent E. caballus. The lateral diameter of the inferior molars hardly varies at all, the difference exist- ing in the transverse diameter, which gives to the teeth a rather more com- pressed appearance. The superior posterior molar tooth in all species of Equus is much curved, so that but little difference is observable in this respect in the fossil specimen. The bodies of the inferior molars are considerably more curved laterally than is usual in the corresponding teeth of the recent horse, which fact, however, was not to be expected from the greater degree of curvature in the superior molars. The enamel folds generally are more delicate, but I do not find sufficient pe- culiarity in their course to render them characteristic. On comparing the crowns of these fossil molar teeth, with the recent species, I find a remarkable degree of resemblance to exist, and in fact, greater differences may be found in this respect, in different individuals of the existing species. The posterior part of the enamel folding of the posterior tooth is rather narrower, and has a deeper groove upon the outer side than I have seen in the recent tooth. The supe- rior molars lead to more positive results than the inferior, yet it is necessary to be very careful, for if we do perceive more differences in these particular teeth in different species, than exists in the inferior teeth, so also do we find a greater variation among them in different individuals of the same species. This variation in the same species is very striking in the case of the posterior tooth of the recent horse, as may be seen by comparing any number of specimens. In this particular tooth in the recent horse, there is always a disposition to the formation of a third isolated enamel fold, always small and posterior to the others. Sometimes it appears as if the disposition existed, but for want of room in the process of development of the tooth, the ordinary posterior, isola- ted enamel fold becomes united by an isthmus to the peripheral fold. In the fossil tooth no disposition of the kind has existed, so that it has more the ap- pearance of the other molars, and indicates a less amount of room for develop- ment, and consequently a smaller jaw. From the foregoing description it will be perceived that I have fixed upon no absolute characters for determining this species with any degree of accuracy, and that this is not possible, I may state upon the authority of Cuvier, who ac- knowledged his incompetency to find characters, ‘assez fixes,” to pronounce upon any species of horse, examined by him, from an isolated bone,* and it is therefore only from their being fossil American teeth coinciding with the E. *Cuvier, Ossemens Fossiles, 4 Ed. T. 3, p. 216. Sept. 1847.] 265 curvidens as described by Mr. Owen, more than with any other species, so far as I am capable of judging, which has made me refer them to that species. The second species is founded upon twelve specimens of teeth which have been deposited in the cabinet of the Academy by our enterprising fellow-mem- ber, Dr. M. W. Dickeson, and is one only of the many important results of his palgontological researches in the southwestern part of the United States. Ten of these interesting relics, consisting of five superior and five inferior mo- lars, Dr. Dickeson states,* were obtained, together with remains of. the Megalonyz, Ursus, the os hominis innominatum fossile, &c., in the vicinity of Natchez, Mississippi, from a stratum of tenacious blue clay underlying a diluvial deposit. The remaining two, both right superior posterior molars, are rolled or water-worn, and were found, as Dr. D. informs me, upon one of the Natchez Islands, in the Mississippi River. All the specimens have the exterior cementum entirely removed, with the exception of one inferior molar of the right side, in which it still exists upon the external face, and much of the in- ferior cementum, and part even of the dentine, is also destroyed, so that the enamel folds everywhere stand out in strong relief. These teeth are larger than those of any species heretofore known, recent or fossil, and must have belonged to a horse, which, in point of magnitude, was a fit cotemporary for the Mastodon, Hlephas, &c., and worthy of the large continent which produced it, andI have therefore named it Hquus Ameri- canus. Two of the inferior molar teeth measure 4.3 inches in length, with a lateral diameter of 1.25 of an inch, and a transverse diameter of .7 of an inch. Two also, of the superior molars, measure 3.9 inches in length externally with a lateral diameter of 1.2 of an inch, and a transverse diameter of 1.1 of an inch. The inferior molars are curved from without inwards, instead of laterally, as is usual. The superior molars are curved to a degree intermediate to that of the Equus caballus and Equus curvidens. The enamel folds are one-fourth thicker than in the recent horse and the isolated enamel folds of the superior molars are much more plicated, resem- bling in this respect the Aguus plicidens, Owen. In one of the two superior posterior molars, there is an additional or third isolated enamel fold, which is oval, and two or three times larger than in the recent horse, and in the other there is a fourth, small, round, isolated enamel fold. Both of these teeth indicate a greater amount of room for development, and consequently a larger jaw. Other and considerable differences will be noticed upon com- paring the figures 2 and 3, representing the crowns of these teeth, especially at the posterior part, which might lead to the supposition that they belonged to distinct species, but from the general characters of the two specimens, added to reasons before stated, relative to the amount of variation existing in the corresponding tooth of the recent horse, I cannot but think they both be- long to Equus Americanus. eG ae EE Se I a Eg Oe er ee ee a See *Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci., vol. 3, p, 106. "y 266 [Sepr. 1847. There is in the cabinet but one remaining tooth, to which I shall refer. This is an inferior middle molar of the left side, in an excellent state of pre- servation, and is a beautiful specimen; the whole of the exterior cementum being preserved without a fissure, apparently through the agency of oxide of iron and siliceous matter, which have rendered it as hard as the dentine itself. It was found with the bones of the Mastodon, Megatherium, [arlanus, &.» in making the excavation for the Brunswick Canal, near Darien, Georgia, and was kindly presented to the Academy by Mr. J. H. Couper. It is straight, and although not longer than the corresponding tooth of the recent horse, with a very little increase in the diameters, character enough can- not be found in it to consider it distinct trom the Equus Americanus. References to the Figures. Figs. 1 and 6, and 4 and 5, were taken from the same specimens. Fig. 1. Crown of a superior middle molar of the left side; antero-posterior measurement 1.2 in., transverse 1.1 in. Fig. 2. Crown of the superior posterior molar of the right side ; antero-poste- rior measurement |.3 in., transverse 1.9 in. Fig. 3. Do. from another specimen. Fig. 4. Crown of an inferior middle molar of the right side; antero-posterior measurement 1.25 in., transverse .7 in. Fig. 5. Internal view of an inferior middle molar of the left side; greatest length 4.15 in.; depth of its curve .15 in. Fig. 6. Antero-lateral view of a superior middle molar of the left side; great- est length 3.9 in,; depth of curve .3 in. The Committee on the following communication, by Dr. Gibbes, of South Carolina, reported in favour of publication in the Proceedings. Description of new species of Squalides from the Tertiary Beds of South Carolina, By Rozsert W. Gisszs, M. D., Columbia, S. C. 1. CarcHaropon Mortoni.i—I have only two specimens from the Zocene, both broken. That, of which a cast is in the collection of the Academy, was probably four inches deep, and three inches across the roots; the upper third is wanting. It is somewhat inequilateral—the anterior edge sloped in- wards, and the posterior arched—both the outer and inner surfaces are con- vex and prominent, the latter trebly so. The enamel is thin but strong— cracked in striz parallel to the edges, and as in most other species converging and disappearing towards the apex:—it is sloped on the inner face. The cutting edges are finely indented, the dentelures (if I may be allowed to adopt an expressive word from the French) are very small, and more minute near the base of the enamel. Next the edges on both faces is a longitudinal flat- tening, giving the appearance of undulations. The root is immensely thick, an inch and a half, and constitutes more than half of the bulk of the tooth. The root is concave, but the extremities being broken, the form cannot be Proc. Acad. N. S. Philada. Vol. Il. Plate 2 eyes} | . " Pi wil | fs ) — Si f! jy JS} Ni << es ' 2) i i , i TR eee at ANDY VASA WKN SS 1) HS) centile HGF ae coo aad Cs pes i> SS. /p) Ze ~. aS iS FSO NSS ' Mil) 1 - SS = De et a Jo Equus Americanus. Bowen & Co. Lith. Philada a* I a" i ‘ | 7 i @ + Sepr. 1847.] 267 given; the structure of the dentine is not as compact as in C. megalodon. A partial description of this fine species was given in a previous paper published in the Proceedings of the Academy, when I named it after the distinguished pioneer of Tertiary Geology in the United States, Dr. Samuel Geo. Morton. 2. CARcHARODON acutidens.—This beautiful species resembles ©. angus- tidens, Agassiz, but is very acutely pointed. Of four specimens which are in my cabinet, the largest cone measures three inches, and it is more than three times the depth of the root, which is concave, very thick and prominent on the inner face. The body of the tooth, or enamelled portion is conical, the lower third swollen, widest next the lateral denticles which are distinct from it. The inner face is arched, while the outer is nearly flat, though undulated by depression next the edges, and having a deep furrow longitudinally in the middle near the base of the enamel, which extends to the root. This does not extend as low on the inner face, and is sloped, leaving an interspace next the root. The cutting edges are sharp and finely indented, the serratures very close. Most of the specimens are straight, but Ihave two which are oblique. There are examples of this species in the Cabinet of the Academy. 3. Carcuaropon lanciformis.—Very fiat, acutely pointed, triangular, nearly equilateral, the posterior edge slightly sloped, while the anterior is straight. The root is not much thicker than the base of the cone, very concave, the rami not symmetrical, one being much longer than the other; in the small lateral teeth this, however, is scarcely perceptible. The edges are sharp and finely indented; the inner face elevated ; the outer plane, in some specimens concave. Viewed laterally, some are much bowed or arched forward. In the middle of the outer face near the base of the enamel, is a longitudinal depression, the sides of which are elevated and unite above the horizontal middle line, and form a ridge to the apex. It has lateral appendages, which are not distinct from the principal cone. The enamel extends lower on the outer face than on the inner. ; Ihave a series of specimens from the Eocene beds of Ashley and Cooper rivers, 8. C. 4. Oxyruina Desorii.—Prof. Agassiz described under this name specimens which subsequent experience induces him to consider identical with Lamna cuspidata, with which he had noticed a resemblance. I take pleasure in restoring the name of the distinguished M. Desor, the friend and co-laborer of M. Agassiz, in this department of science, to a fine species in my cabinet. It is very massive—thicker than any other of this genus—in this respect resembling Oxyr. crassa, but not so broad. Viewed en profil, the form is similar to Lamna Hopei, much curved inwardly, except near the apex, which is flat. The edges are cutting in their whole extent, the base of the enamel arched, and nearly equal on both faces, the root very thick, compact, and 268 (Serr. 1847. heavy. I have six specimens from the Miocene, and three from the Eocene of South Carolina. 5. Oxyruina Sil/imani.—Among twelve specimens from the Focene, there is much uniformity in this species. The cone is straight or very slightly bowed on the inner surface, equilateral, acutely pointed, both surfaces convex, the inner much moreso. A peculiarity exists in the great breadth of the enamel at the base, which is similar on both aspects. The root is thick, and forms one-third of the height of the tooth. I attach to it the name of Prof. B. Silliman, the veteran co-laborer in American Science. 6. Oropus Jevis.—This has very much the form of Lamna cuspidata, but the position, form and size of the lateral winglets mark it as a true Otodus. It is more slender than any other of this genus, lanciform, equilateral, straight, convex on the inner face, and undulated on the outer from a triangular depression near the base extending longitudinally nearly to the apex. The lateral cones are broad aud thick, and detached from the base of the enamel which extends lower on the outer face than on the inner. I have a single specimen from the Kocene, 8. C. 7. Giypuis subulata.—The cone is shorter and thicker proportionally than in G. hastalis, Agassiz, and is more straight, convex on both surfaces, more so on the inner; the upper third of the outer face is flat, and the point has a tendency outward. A sharp lateral edge extends from the apex equally on both sides two-thirds of the length of the cone, and is uniformly indented. The root is thick, the enamel extends lower on the outer face and to the rooton both. In one specimen the root is very broad, and the enamelled base equally so. 3 I have only two specimens from the Eocene, 8. C. I have in preparation full descriptions of all the genera and species of Squalides from the Tertiary of South Carolina, which will be published with figures in a future number of the Journal of the Academy. I have in my collection eight genera and thirty-nine species. I have had the privilege and pleasure of submitting them to the inspection of our distinguished visitor, Prof. Agassiz, who has kindly and liberally given me much information as to their character and arrangement, the result of his extensive experience. A communication was read from Mr. Moss, dated Sept. 28th, 1847, tendering his resignation as Recording Secretary, in consequence of his removal from the city; which was accepted, and the following resolution unanimously adopted : Resolved, That the Academy receives with regret the resigna- tion of Mr. Theodore F. Moss, as Recording Secretary, and Ocr. 1847.] 269 tenders him its thanks for the zeal and fidelity with which he has performed the duties of the office during his mcumbency. On motion, also Resolved, That at the next meeting for business, the Society proceed to the election of a Recording Secretary. ELECTION. M. Carey Lea, Moses H. Emery, Benjamin J. Kern, M. D., and F. W. Sargent, M. D., of Philadelphia, were elected Mem- bers; and Jacob Sturm, Esq., of Niiremberg, was elected a Correspondent. Stated Meeting, October 5, 1847. Vice President Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Ocypoda Urvillii, from the Pacific Coast. From Dr. Joseph Wilson, U. 8. Navy. Transverse section of a fossil tree, 18 inches diameter, from Athens, Ohio, and numerous specimens, in spirits, of rep- tiles, from the south-western part of the United States. From Dr. 8. P. Hildreth. Fossil coniferous wood and bark. From Professor Johnson. A number of American Reptiles. From Dr. George Spack- man. Platycarcinus ————— ? from Tampa Bay, Florida. From Mr. T. A. Conrad. Apus longicaudatus; from the Rocky Mountains. From Dr. J. L. Le Conte. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Transactions of the Botanical Society of Edinburgh. Vol. 2, parts 1,2 and 38. Edinburgh, 1845—46. From Dr. Balfour, of Glasgow, through Dr. Watson. = 270 [Ocr. 1847. Memoir on the fossil genus Basilosaurus, with a notice of speci- mens from the Eocene green sand of South Carolina. By Robert W. Gibbes, M. D., of Columbia, S. C. (From the Journal of the Acad. of Nat. Sci. of Philada., vol. 1, 2d series.) 4to. Philada. 1847. From the author. A synopsis of the Birds of North America. By J. J. Audubon. 8vo., Edinburgh, 1839. From Dr. Wilson. Annales des Lagides, ou Chronologie des rois Grecs d’Egypte successeurs d’Alexandre le grand. Par M. Champollion Figeac. 2 vols., 8vo. Paris, 1819. From the author. Le Sahara Algerien, études géographiques, statistiques, et histo- riques sur la région au Sud des établissements Francais en Algerie, &e. Par M. le Lieut. Col. Daumas. 8vo. Paris, 1845. From Mr. A. Vattemare. De l’organisation des Bibliothéques dans Paris. Par le Comte de Laborde. 8me., Lettre. Etude sur la construction des Bibliothéques. 8vo. Paris, 1845. From the same. Movement of the international literary exchanges between France and North America, from Jan. 1845 to May 1846; with in- structions for collecting, preparing, and forwarding objects of natural history, written by the Prof. administrators of the Museum of Natural History at Paris; and instructions rela- tive to Anthropology and Zoology. By M. Isidore Geoffroy St. Hilaire. 8vo. Paris, 1846. From the same. Proceedings of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, pp. 49—160. From the Academy. Die Petrefacten der Trias und des Jura sowie der Tertair-und Diluvial Bildungen Wiirttembergs, nach ihren Schichtungs- verhiltnissen zusammengestellt mit ‘geognostischem Durchs- chnitt von P. Mohr. 8vyo. pamphlet. Stuttgart,; 1847. From the author. Verzeichniss von Mineralien und Gebirgsarten bei Paul Mohr. From the author. Oor. 1847.] O71 Dr. Wilson deposited the following works: History of British Animals. By John Fleming, D. D., F. R.S.. &e. 2dedition. S8vo. London, 1842. The Philosophy of Zoology ; or a general view of the structure, functions and classifications of animals. By John Fleming, D. D.. &e. 2vols., 8vo. Edinburgh, 1822. The Naturalist’s Library. Vols. 3, 4, 5,6 and 13, of Orni- thology. 12mo. Untersuchungen tiber die Fauna Peruana auf einer Reise in Peru Wihrend der Jahre 1838, °39, ’40, ’41 and ’42. Von Dr. J. J. von Tschudi. Leiferungen 1—12. 4to. A collection of geological facts and practical observations in- tended to elucidate the formation of the Ashby coal field, in the parish of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, and the neighboring district. By Edward Mammat, F. G. 8. 1 vol. 4to. Ashby-de-la- Zouch, 1836. Antediluvian Phytology, illustrated by a collection of the fos- sil remains of plants peculiar to the coal formation of Great Britain. By Edmund Tyrrell Artis, F. 8. A. F.G.8. 4to. London, 1838. Handbuch der Naturgeschichte aller Vigel Duetschlands. Von. Christian Ludwig Brehm. 8vo. Imenau, 1851. A Monograph of the British Nudibranchiate Mollusca; with figures of all the species. By Joshua Alder & Albany Hancock. Parts 1, 2, and 38. 4to. London, 1845, 46. ; The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America. By Audubon & Bachman. No. 24, folio. Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London, pp. 83 to 98. The Annals and Magazine of Natural History. No. 151. Aug., 1847. The following letter was read from Dr. J. W. Dawson, of Pictou, N. S., dated Sept. 11, 47, addressed to Prof. Johnson, in answer to some inquiries made by the latter, respecting the gypsum of that section of country. i 37 272 [Ocr. 1847. ‘*The gypsum of Nova Scotia has attracted considerable attention since Mr. Lyell published his reasons for supposing it to be older than had been previously supposed, and you will find much matter relating to your inquiries, in papers by Mr. Lyell, Mr. Brown of Sidney, and myself, published, within the last few years, by the Geological Society of London. I do not, therefore, profess, in this letter, to state much that is new, but merely to give you a general view of the appearances I have observed, and the conclusions deducible from them. The great workable deposites of gypsum are all contained in the carboniferous system, and most of them in its lower part. The new red sandstone contains only small veins and thin layers of gypsum, of no economical importance. For proof of this, I may refer you to the papers above mentioned, and to that on the new red sandstone, which I hope will be published in the course of this year. The great masses of gypsum quarried in this Province, are the outcropping edges of true beds, apparently as continuous as those of the limestone associated with them, though perhaps not somuch so as the accompanying sandstone and shale. These beds are, however, often of great thickness, and this, together with the tendency of their surfaces to be worn into ‘‘ pits,’’ their association with soft marls and sandstones easily removed by denudation, and the disturb- ances to which our carboniferous strata have been subjected, often prevent their arrangement from being distinctly seen. In the following places, however, if is very evident: At Ogden’s Point, near Antigonish, the descending order, seen in the coast section, is as follows: 1. White gypsum, fine grained and rather hard, in thick Aggregate lamin, and with minute crystals of carbonate of lime. thickness . Reddish gypsum, large grained foliated. over 100 feet. - Alternations of thin beds of gypsum and of grey earthy limestone. - Grey limestone, laminated and brecciated, a thick bed. - Reddish sandstones and shales. The dip of these beds is S. S. E. 25°, and the lamination or subordinate bed- ding of the upper bed of gypsum, coincides with this dip. The beds can be traced inland for several miles; the outcrop of the gypsum running parallel to that of the other beds. A section somewhat similar to the above, occurs at De Bert river, but there the limestone, which is fossiliferous, does not alternate with the gypsum at their junction; the gypsum is, however, evidently a bed superimposed on the limestone. Two of the smaller beds near the mouth of the Shubenacadie river, afford good illustrations of the bedding of the gypsum. The first is a bed of black gypsum, on the west side of the river. It is 12 feet thick, and is included in beds of reddish sandstone, a layer of which separates the gypsum into two portions. In this case the contrast between the color of the red sandstone and that of the gypsum, apparently colored by coaly or bituminous matter, is very striking. The other instance occurs on the east side of the river, at the south- ern extremity of the bay, named the ‘‘Bend.’’ It is a bed of whitish anhy- drite, with some common gypsum in its upper part, regularly interstratified with reddish sandstones. Near this bed the red sandstones are traversed by a, network of very narrow veins of fibrous gypsum. a He WwW bo Ocr. 1847.] 273 Near the entrance of Wallace Harbor is a bed of gypsum, whose relations are as follow, in descending order: 1. Reddish clay or shale, not well seen. 2, Grey limestone with fossil shells. Its fissures and the cavities of the shells filled with selenitic gypsum. 8. White granular gypsum; thickness about 12 feet. 4. Reddish clay and shales. 5. Grey sandstone, with calamites and trunks of coniferous trees. The dip of these beds is S. S. W. 20°. The above are the best illustrations which, on looking over my notes, I can find of the stratification of gypsum. There is, however, one circumstance worthy of notice, in addition, as it aids in generalizing from such facts. It is the rude lamination or layering observed in many masses of gypsum. This always coincides with the plans of stratification, where the latter can be ob- served, and is often produced by the presence of thin layers of clay, marl, or limestone. In beds whose associated rocks cannot be seen, this lamination is often observable, and affords an evidence of stratification, which may some- times be farther confirmed by a comparison with the nearest visible beds of other rocks. In some cases also, this layering affords proofs of disturbances. An instance of this is the enormous bed of gypsum, called White’s or the Big Plaster Rock, on the banks of the Shubenacadie. The indications of the singularly contorted lamine of this bed are confirmed by the vertical position of some associated thin beds of marl and limestone. Anhydrite very frequently accompanies the common gypsum. In some cases, as at White’s quarry, and the bend of the Shubenacadie, it forms the lower parts of beds, which above consist of hydrous gypsum. In other instances, as at the estuary of the Avon and the St. Croix river, it constitutes the mass of great beds, which are, however, in the immediate vicinity of the beds of the com- mon variety. At the East river of Pictou, it occurs in large balls, included in a thick bed of hydrous gypsum. The anhydrite is sometimes also dissemi- nated in grains, through some parts of the beds of gypsum, which are quarried ; and this mixed rock, as well as the purer anhydrite, is called hard plaster or shark-stone, by the quarrymen. Anhydrite has not been observed to be con- nected with any igneous or metamorphosed rocks. In the only instance which I have observed of the occurrence of gypsum in rocks altered by heat, the gypsum is hydrous. The gypsum of this province is nearly always crystalline. Inthe great beds, whether of common gypsum or anhydrite, the structure is always foliated or granular; sometimes large grained, in other cases so fine as to appear compact or chalky. The finer zrained varieties often contain groups of larger crystals. In the true veins, occupying fissures in the sandstones, limestones, and gypsum beds themselves, the structure is invariably fibrous. Little rounded kernels of gypsum, sometimes occurring in sandstones, &c., are foliated. The crystalline structure, and great comparative purity of gypsum, show that it is a chemical, not a mechanical deposit. Its constant association with the limestones of the carboniferous system, containing marine fossils, (Terebratula, Productus, Orthoceras, Corals, &c.) prove that it was deposited in the sea; and 274 [Ocr. 1847. from the present relations of the carboniferous rocks to older systems, in this province, it is probable that the sea basins in which gypsum was deposited, were not very extensive. In these sea basins the deposition of gypsum alter- nated with mechanical deposits of sand and marl, and with the growth of shells and corals; but the conditions which produced beds of gypsum, were unfavora- ble both to the transport of sediment and the existence of animals or plants. From a consideration of these facts, I am disposed to refer the formation of gypsum to springs and rivers, containing free sulphuric acid, and poured into seas in which carbonate of lime had been deposited. The sulphuric acid may have been derived from the volcanic regions of the neighboring ranges of older rocks, and may have been a product of the oxidation of iron pyrites, which stil! ibound in some parts of these older strata, either directly by the action of air ind water, or, perhaps, indirectly by the formation of sulphuretted hydrogen, and its oxidation in passing through fissures in contact with waterand air. To realize the operation of these causes, you need only imagine streams like the South American Rio Vinaigre flowing into a sheltered bay containing beds of shells and: corals, or into the space between a coast andits coral reef. IJ donot, however, pretend to explain the mode of former action of anhydrite in this way, thoughiit, like the common gypsum, has evidently been deposited in beds by water.” A letter was read from Dr. S. P. Hildreth, of Marietta, Ohio, dated Aug. 19, 1847, relative to his donation of this evening. On motion of Mr. Haldeman, a committee was appointed to confer with Mr. A. Vattemare, on the subject of international exchanges. Committee, Prof. Johnson, Dr. Leidy and Mr. Cassin. Stated Meeting, October 12, 1847. Vice PresrpENtT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. Forty specimens, in skin, of European birds. From Prof. Bronn, of Heidelberg, in exchange. Meandrina cerebriformis, attached to Arca Nox, M. crispa with Serpula and Pyrgonia ; Agaricia ampliata with Pyrgonia, Pocilipora damicornis; Megaphyllum with Nobia. From Dr. Wilson. A mineral, supposed to be new. From Mr. L. J. Germain. Ocr. 1847.] ho a | ea DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Elementary Chemistry, theoretical and practical. By Geo. Fownes, Ph. D., edited, with additions, by Robert Bridges, M. D., 2d edition, 8vo. Philadelphia, 1847. From Dr. Bridges. Bridgewater Treatises. Treatise 1. On the adaptation of external nature to the moral and intellectual constitution cf Man. By the Rev. T. Chalmers, D.D. ‘Treatise 8th. Chemistry, Meteorology, and the function of digestion. By Wm. Prout, M. D., F. R. S. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1836. From the same. Elements of Physics: or natural philosophy, general and medical, &c. By Neil Arnott, M. D. Edited by Isaac Hays, M. D. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1845. From the same. Lexicon Scientarium; a dictionary of terms used in the various branches of Anatomy, Botany, Zoology, &. By Henry McMurtrie, M.D. 12mo. Philadelphia, 1847. From the Author. Histoire des Polypiers coralligénes flexibles, vulgairement nommés Zoophytes. Par J. F. V. Lamouroux. 8vo. A. Caen, 1846. From Mr. Wm. Gambel. Henrico Joan. Nepom. Cranz Classis Cruciformium emendata cum fig. aen. in necessarium Instit. Rei Herbarize Supplemen- tum. 8vo. Lipsia, 1769. From Dr. Griffith. On the influence of atmosphere and locality, &c. on human health, constituting elements of Hygiéne. By Robley Dung- lison, M.D. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1835. From the same. Hector Bossange: Catalogue des livres anciens. 8vo. Paris, 1846. From the same. The American Mineralogical Journal; conducted by Archibald Bruce, M. D. Vol. 1. 8vo. New York, 1814. From the same. 276 * [Ocr. 1847. Seven tracts in the Burmese, Chinese, and Hindustan lan- guages, chiefly on religious subjects. From Dr. Dawson of Philadelphia. A letter was read from Mr. M. W. Rowe, dated New Har- mony, Indiana, Oct. 2, 1847, containing some observations on the generation of the Opossum. Mr. Conrad read a paper, entitled ‘ Observations on the Eocene formation, and descriptions of 105 new Fossils from the vicinity of Vicksburg, Miss.; with an Appendix.’ Referred to a Committee consisting of Drs. Wilson and Leidy, and Mr. Phillips. Stated Meeting, Oct. 19, 1847. Vick PresipENtT Morton in the Chair. DONATIONS TO MUSEUM. T'wo vertebree of a Cetacean and three Chelonian bones; from the green sand of New Jersey. Presented by Dr. J. Thomas. Sulphuret of Antimony and Talc, from Burmah; also several species of Cyprzea from the same. From Dr. Dawson. Sulphate of Baryta, from Antrim, Ireland. Presented by Mr. Wm. L. Mactier. Dr. Morton deposited the crania of a Swede, Chenouk Indian, Bengalee, Lepan Indian and ancient Phoenician. Also, a cranium of Phoca vitulina, and casts of crania of a Mexican, Burat, Abyssinian and Patagonian. DONATIONS TO LIBRARY. Genera Plantarum secundum ordines naturales disposita: Auctor Henrico Endlicher. Fascic. 8-16. 8vo. From Dr. Wm .Dar- lington. Versuch iiber die perspiration einiger mit lungen athmender Oct. 1847.] - wirbelthiere; von ©. L. von Erlach. 4to. Bern, 1846. From’ Dr. Morton. Dissertatio medica inauguralis continens observationes quasdam anatomicas comparatas de Squatina levi. Auctore Henrico Boursse Wils. Lugduni Batavorum, 1844. From the same. Esquisse des principaux points de vue sous lesquels ou peut con- siderer ’anatomie de l’Homme et des animaux dans sons état ~actuel. Par M. Duvernoy. Paris, 1840. From the same. Quelques observationes sur |’animal de la Spirule, et sur l’'usage du siphon des coquilles polythalames. Par M. H. Blainville. Paris, 1838. From the same. Fragment d’anatomie comparee sur les organes de la géneration de !’Ornithorynque et de l’Echidné; par G. L. Duvernoy. 4to. From the same. Ofversigt of slagtet Erinaceus af Carl J. Sundevall. From the same. Faculte de Medecine de Paris. Thése pour le Doctorat en Med- ecine, presentée et soutenue le 22 Aofit, 1845. Par Louis- Pierre Gratiolet. 4to. Paris, 1845. From the same. Uber den bau und die Lebensercheinungen des Branchiostoma lubricum, Costa, Amphioxus lanceolatus, Yarrell. Von J. Miiller. Folio. Berlin, 1844. From the same. Natural History of New York. Agriculture of New York. By Ebenezer Emmons M. D. Vol. 1. 4to. Albany, 1846. Pur- chased by order of the Academy. literary Record and Journal of the Linnean Association of Pennsylvania College. Vol. 3, No. 12. From the Associ- ation. An Address delivered before the Chester county Horticultural Society at West Chester, Pa., September 10, 1847: by Wm. Hf. Dillingham ; with the Transactions of the Society for 1846, ‘47. Philadelphia, 1847. From the Author. ? bo 78 ° [Ocr. 1847. A letter was read from Prof. Haldeman, dated Columbia, Oct. 16, 1847, calling the attention to a collection of Birds and Rep- tilia for sale at Tampico, Referred to the Curators. Mr. Gambel exhibited an albino specimen of the Wood Pewit, (Muscicapa virens) which was obtained in Liberty county, Georgia, by Mr. Wm. L. Jones, of that State, and also a specimen of a Woodpecker resembling Picus pubescens, but probably a new species. ‘This last is remarkable in having only three toes, and would therefore more probably belong to the genus Picoides Lacep. (Apternus, Swains.) The feet are slender and delicate, without even a rudiment of a fourth toe; in other respects it more closely resembles the P. meridionalis, Swains. (P. Gairdnerit, Aud. ) which is also an inhabitant of Georgia. It differs in having the bill more compressed at the base, the tips of the tertiaries with- out emarginations, the primaries narrower and more pointed, and in the toes being only three in number, Meeting for Business, Oct. 26, 1847. Mr. PEARSALL in the Chair. The committee to whom was referred Dr. Hallowell’s paper, describing a new Coluber, reported in fayor of publication in the Proceedings. Description of a New Species of Coluber inhabiting the United States. By Epwarp Hattowett, M. D, Coluber venustus. Characters.—Head small, neck slender, color reddish-brown, with a dorsal ash-colored band extending from the occiput to near the extremity of the tail ; four narrow bands of reddish-brewn color from the neck to the commencement of the tail, with two intermediate bands of the same color, but less distinct ; an ash-colored, band resembling that upon the dorsum, along each side of the abdomen ; abdomen of a brick-red or copper color; tail short. Description.—Head small, elongated, flattened above, covered with nine Ocr. 1847.] 279) plates; of these the verticalis pentagonal; the occipital are also pentagonal, their anterior margins being in contact with the vertical, supra-orbitar, and superior post-occular plates; the supra-orbitar are pentangular, and in contact posteriorly with the occipital and posterior superior post-oculars, internally with the vertical, and anteriorly with the posterior frontal; their external margin forms the upper part of the orbit, and is in contact in front with the superior ante-ocular; they do not project beyond the eye; the posterior frontal are quadrilateral ; the anterior frontal are smaller than those last described ; their external and posterior angle is somewhat prolonged, passing in between the frenal and the posterior frontal plate ; their anterior marginis rounded ; there are two ante-ocular, and two post-oculars, of the posterior the superior is the larger; the frenal plate is quadrilateral; the nasalis single; the nostril, which is small, is placed near the posterior margin; the rostral plate is hexagonal, incurvated below ; it isin contact with the anterior frontal, the nasal and the an- terior labials; in the specimen examined there are six superior labials on one side and seven upon the opposite side of the head, exclusive of the rostral: of these the fifth is the largest; it is oblong quadrilateral; eyes of moderate size, placed upon the side of the head ; neckslender, body rounded, contracted near the anus, thickest near the middle, covered with carinated scales ; of these there are fifteen rows; these scales are bi-punctate posteriorly ; the interven- ing epidermis is black ; tail short and tapering to a point. Colour.—Head brown above; irides . Anash-coloured band extends along the dorsum, beginning at the occiput ; it is narrow upon the neck, and broadest near the middie of the animal, where it measures one line and a quarter in breadth ; it becomes narrow upon the tail, and is finally lost towards its ex- tremity ; two longitudinal bands of a reddish-brown colour extend along each side from the neck to the tail, the superior along the external margin of the ash-coloured dorsal band, the inferior along the lateral margin of the abdominal scuta; there is an intermediate band of the same colour, but less distinct ; the spaces intervening between the bands are light brown; the chinis white, pre- senting numerous small conglomerate spots of a black colour upon its surface ; the throat is also white, with blackish points, most numerous upon its sides; the neck, abdomen and under part of tail are of a trick-red colour ; lighter upon the neck; an ash-coloured band, resembling that upon the back, extends along each side of the neck, and of the abdomen as far as the tail. Dimensions.—Length of head 4 lines; greatest breadth 2} lines; length of body 9 inches, (Fr.) of tail, 2 inches 5 lines. Abdomen.—Seuta 122. Subcaud. 41. Habitat.—Michigan, near Copper Harbour, Lake Superior. This species was found by Mr. Theodore F. Moss, between stones upon the border of the lake, and presented by him to the Acadamy of Natural Sciences. The speci- men had been preserved in alcohol two weeks. No animal resembling the one I have described is figured in Prof. Holbrook's work on the ‘‘ Reptiles inhabiting the United States,’’ and I have therefore ventured to consider it as new. Since the figure of this animal was printed, I have received, through the 38 x 280 [Oct. 1847. kindness of Dr. Storer, the original of the occipito-maculatus,* which corres- ponds with the animal described in many particulars. The form of the head and neck is the same, as are also the plates immediately in front of the eye, which are two in number, the Tripidonatus Dekayi, with which it has been considered identical, presenting but one. The scales are likewise carinated and bi-punctate posteriorly, and the number of caudal and abdominal plates is nearly the same in both. The specimen of Dr. Storer, however, is much more slender, and the coloration is almost totally different, which, however, may be the effect of long immersion in spirits. We are inclined to the opinion, therefore, that notwithstanding the great difference in their size and coloration, the two animals are the same. My friend Prof. Baird, to whom I exhibited the specimen brought by Mr. Moss, states that it is very abundant in the north, being, in fact, the most common snake along Lake Champlain. In Troy, he observes, ‘‘I have found one, and have a specimen from Georgia, at least given me as from that local- ity.’’ Itis certainly remarkable, that an animal having so wide a geograph- ical distribution, and presenting the beautiful appearance which it does, should be so little known to naturalists. The Committee on Mr. Conrad’s paper, read 12th inst., re- ported in favour of publication in the Proceedings. Observations on the Eocene formation, and descriptions of one hundred and five new fossils of that period, from the vicinity of Vicksburg, Mississippi, with an Appendix. By T. A. Conran. In the Spring of 1844, I collected about 109 species of Eocene fossils, most of which appear to be new species. There are 60 univalves, 42 bivalves, and 1 multivalve shell, and 6 or 7 polyps. Of these fossils, I can identify two only with species of the Claiborne sands, Infundibulum trochiformis aud Conus saurodens. Very few others are related to species of the Alabama sand strata; Lucina Mississippiensis, Sigaretus Missis- sippiensis and Dentalium Mississippiensis, are the only shells which might be confounded with species of those deposits. The Vicksburg group contains three species of bivalves which have much resemblance to Miocene fossils of this country. Lima staminea approaches L. papyria; Corbula engonata is allied to C. inequalis, Say; and Nucula Vicks- burgensis, to N. obliqua, Say. I have not observed a recent species in this group, and yet it is decidedly more modern than that of the Claiborne sands ; and as both deposits have but two species in common, I thought it advisable to designate the former, Upper or Newer Eocene, and the latter Lower or Older Eocene, as the two divisions are more distinct than the Older and Newer Pliocenes. In the American Journal of Science and Arts, I have given a sketch of the * Reports on the Icthyology and Herpetology of Massachusetts, by D. Hum- phreys Storer, M. D., p. 230. Ocr. 1847.] 281 Mississippi Eocene, and observed that not* more than 10 species would be found on comparison, identical with Claiborne shells. I had reference to the sand at Claiborne, and not including the limestone above it. A careful comparison has reduced the number to two species, for the Dentalium, which when at Vicks- burg (without a Claiborne specimen for comparison) I had supposed to be D. thalloides, is « distinct, though closely allied species. This newer portion of the Eocene in Mississippi is represented in Alabama by the white limestone at St. Stephens on the Tombeckbe river, and the simi- lar rock which constitutes the uppermost stratum at Claiborne, on the Alabama river; all being admirably connected by the abundance of Nummulites Muntelli. There is a similar limestone in Charleston County, South Carolina, in which I found Scutella Lyelli and Pecten calvatus, fossils of the Claiborne limestone, and both rocks are probably of the same geological age. The limestone of Tampa Bay, Florida, is included in the Upper Eocene series, but as yet no fossil has been obtained from it identical with a species of the Carolinas, Mis- sissippi or Alabama, unless itis a specimen of Carcharias megalodon, which Capt. Powell, of the Navy, found on the bay shore. The only species of Crassatella which occurs at Vicksburg, is more nearly re- lated to C. twmida of the Paris basin than to C. alta of Claiborne. Ostrea selleformis characterises the lower division of the Eocene formation. It occurs abundantly beneath the fossiliferous sands of Claiborne ; at Vance’s Ferry, South Carolina: and on the right bank of James river, below City Point, Virginia. I also refer to this section, the localities at Fort Washington, Piscataway, and Upper Marlborough, Maryland. Other characteristic fossils are Cardita planicosta and Turritella Mortoni, the former occurring at Piscata- way; at Claiborne, Alabama; and also at Marlbourne, on Pamunkey river, Virginia, the residence of Edmund Ruffin, Esq. The following table illustrates the two editions of the Hocene: DIVISIONS. LOCALITIES. CHARACTERISTIO FOSSILS. Vicksburg, Miss., white limestone, Scutella Lyelli. Upper of St. Stephens, and of Claiborne,|S Rogersi. Alabama, and part of that in Charles-| Pecten Poulsouni. or ton Co., South Carolina. Nummulites Mantelli. Peewee ete ee reer ee eee HEHEHE SHH eee ee Hee eEEEe® Newer Eocene. jlimestone in the vicinity of Tampa Bay, Florida. Nummulites Floridana. Cristellaria rotella. “Ancocen poanee sabO=esA ||| Steench sopanhas cabsoeea ocatoncadecnOcocsG wei |Ostrea Georgiana. Fossilliferous sands of Claiborne, ; Cardita planicosta. Lower and St. Stephens, Al, of the Washita Blandinga. river, near Monroe, La.; Pamunkey | Crassatella alta. or river at Marlbourne, and Eocene |Ostrea selleformis. green sand, on James river, below} Turritella Mortoni, &c. ' Older Eocene. |City Point, Va.; Fort Washington, Piscataway, and Upper Marlborough, Perccceneinnctescetess ser Md. *In the paragraph alluded to, this word was accidentally omitted. I did not, when it was written suppose that 10 fossils would be found to correspond with the species of the Claiborne sands. 7 282 [Ocr. 1847. The upper limestone of Shell Bluff on the Savannah river in Georgia, which contains Ostrea Georgiana and Scutella quinguefaria, overlies the strata which contain species of organic remains identical with those of the Lower Eocene of Alabama and Virginia, none of which has yet been found associated with the two characteristic fossils above named. On the other hand, the Ostrea Georgi- ana occurs at Jackson, Mississippi, where its position is said to be below the Vicksburg group. It is therefore the line of demarcation between the Upper and Lower Hocene. FOSSILS OF THE NEWER EOCENE OF MISSISSIPPI. Dentalium Mississippiensis. Curved, attenuated above, longitudinally striated, the lines alternated in size, Length 21-10. Abundant. It differs from D. thullotdes, nob., in having more numerous and much less prominent lines. It is very abundant. There is another species which occurs in fragments. It is small, rare, and is smooth, polished and curved. Fissurella Mississippiensis. Suboval, rather elevated, with numerous unequal radiating lines, and fine transverse lines, giving a minutely granulated appearance to the shell; foramen oval, submedia]. Length 4, very rare. An echinated species occurs apparently identical with /. trochiformis of Paris, and of Claiborne, Alabama. Solarium triliratum. Discoidal, with three thick approximate ridges on the periphery; suture channelled ; volutions with oblique impressed lines, and 2 fine revolving lines on each whorl; base convex with three revolving impressed lines that near the umbilicus profound, and with coarse rugose transverse lines. Diameter 7-10, Not common. Bulla crassiplica. Cylindrical, narrowing towards the base, smooth and entire; fold at base thick and prominent. Length 2-10. Abundant on Dr. Smith's plantation, 6 miles N. E. of Vicksburg. 1. Cyprea spheroides. Short ovate, subglobose; posterior end narrow; base rounded; aperture nar- row, the margins with numerous teeth. Length 1}. Very rare. Mr. J. D. Anderson, of Vicksburg, found one, and I obtained only one during the two weeks employed in collecting the fossils around Vicksburg. 2. Cyprea lintea. Ovate, elevated, ventricose, with four approximate equal impressed lines ; base ventricose, profoundly striated ; labrum margin much thickened, profound ly striated ; summit of the labrum prominent ; base slightly produced. Length 6-10. Rare. Narica Mississippiensis. ‘Subglobose, revolving lines fine, regular, equal ; longitudinal wrinkles very Ocr. 1847.] | 285 minute, spire very short ; suture somewhat channelled ; umbilicus rather large. Length 4-10. Sigaretus Mississippiensis. Obliquely oval, with fine very closely arranged wrinkled revolving lines ; whorls convex ; no umbilicus. Length 8-10. This species is usually much smaller than the specimen described, and scarcely differs from a species of Claiborne, Alabama. Not very common. 1. Natica Mississippiensis. Subglobose, body whorl flattened above; suture channelled ; spire little pro- minent; base profoundly callous; aperture moderate. Length 8-10. This rare species I found about 7 or 8 miles N. W. of Vicksburg. 2. Natica Vicksburgensis. Subglobose, whorls 4 or 5, convex; umbilicus large; columella straight ; la- bium callous. Length 6-10. This species is common. Scalaria trigintanaria. Turreted, whorls convex, cancellated with numerous prominent lines, the longitudinal one lamelleform and elevated towards the suture, about 32 in number on the body whorl, which is obtusely carinated ; revolving lines equally prominent with the longitudinal, but thicker; base below the carina with minute revolving lines. Length 9-10. Very rare. Turritella Mississippiensis. Subulate, volutions flattened, with seven revolving lines on the larger ones, the penultimate line large and prominent; longitudinal wrinkles fine, approxi- mate, much curved, crenulating the revolving lines; the whorls near the apex generally with two prominent distant revolving lines, and a less prominent one margins the suture. Length 3inches. Not abundant. 1. Terebra divisurum. Subulate, with nineteen flattened volutions, obscurely turreted ; polished and with longitudinal enrved ribs, dislocated by an impressed line above the middle of each whorl; ribs obsolete on the body whorl below the impressed line. Length 2 inches. Common. The ribs are sometimes obsolete on the larger whorls, or replaced by coarse wrinkles, which are generally distinct on the body whorl. 2. Terebra tantula. Subulate, with longitudinal ribs dislocated by an impressed line ; whorls with minute revolving lines. Very similar to the preceding, but narrower, far less in size, and distinguished by the revolving lines and by the ribs on the body whorl, which extend to the beak. Length 2. Rare. 1, Pleurotoma porcellana. Fusiform, smooth and polished ; whorls 11, convex, with two revolvingelines near the upper margin; the interstices transversely striated ; body whorl with 284 | [Ocr. 1847. revolving impressed lines, commencing near the upper angle of the aperture ; volution contiguous to the apex, papillated ; Jabium striated ; aperture rather more than half the length of the shell; beak perfectly straight. Length 1}. Rare. This shell may perhaps appertain to Brachytoma, Swainson. 2. Pleurotoma Mississippiensis. Turreted ; volutions eight, concave above and plain below, with longitudinal distant rounded ribs ; body whorl with revolving lines, commencing in a line with the summit of the aperture; beak short, a little curved. Length 4. 3. Pleurotoma servata. Fusiform ; whorls ten, with rounded longitudinal ribs and prominent strong revolving lines, a fine intermediate line on the body whorl; volutions concave above, with a carinated revolving line below the suture ; beak narrow, elongated, slightly bent, acuminate; aperture and canal rather more than half the length of the shell. Length 9-10. 4, Pleurotoma congesta. Short-fusiform, volutions nine or ten, with revolving raised lines and longi- tudinal wrinkles; spire conical-acute; whorls slightly contracted in the middle. with longitudinal curved irregular striz, interrupted in the middle of each whorl; aperture half as long as the shell ; beaks slightly twisted. Length 1-10th. Very abundant. It approaches the genus Brachytoma, Swainson. 5. Pleurotoma cristata. Fusiform, whorls ten, angulated in the middle, except the two from the apex, and with a reflected finely dentate carina ; revolving lines distinct, finely crenulated ; spire scalariform; from the upper end of the aperture runs a promi- nent revolving line, much larger than the others: lines on the body whorl below the angle minutely granulated; beak narrow, produced. Length 3. Rare. 6. Pleurotoma tantula. Slender; volutions nine, convex, with longitudinal rounded, slightly curved ribs; spire elevated and acute ; suture margined by an indistinct raised line ; beak short, narrow. Length 4-10. Rare. A member of subgenus Clavatula, Lam. 7. Pleurotoma tenella. Fusiform ; volutions nine, whorls slightly contracted above, with longitudinal prominent curved lines, and a prominent revolving line near and below the su- ture ; between this and the suture an impressed line ; body whorl with strong prominent revolving lines, commencing in a line with the upper end of the aperture, and sometimes alternated in size; ribs frequently obsolete on the body whorl, and terminating at the striated space; beak narrow, somewhat produced. Length 8-10. It probably belongs to Swainson’s genus Clavicantha. 8. Pleurotoma cochlearis, Subfusiform, with elevated revolving lines, alternated with fine lines, the in- Oct. 1847. ] 285 terstices with fine longitudinal wrinkled lines; spire elevated, acute; beak narrow, straight. Length12. Very rare. The specimen figured is more than twice the size of any other specimen found, though it is an abundant species. 9. Pleurotoma eborides. Turreted ; whorls nine, smooth, flattened above, obscurely nodulous or sub- costate below ; beak short. Length 6-10. 10. Pleurotoma abundans. Turreted: whorls ten, concave above, with a crenulated prominent revolving line just below the suture ; convex portion of the whorls with prominent, acute, nearly straight ribs and regular revolving lines; concave portion with minute revolving lines ; beak narrow, slightly produced. Length 2. It belongs to subgenus Clavatula, Lam. 11. Pleurotoma rotedens. Narrow-subfasiform, small, with a profound deeply crenulated carina on the body whorl and in the middle of each whorl of the spire; suture margined with a prominent line below and a minute one above ; large volution with dis- tinct revolving lines and minute longitudinal wrinkles ; beak slightly produced, narrow, straight. Length 3. Rare. 12. Pleurotoma decliva. Fusiform, with subangular volutions, with strong prominent revolving lines on the body whorl, alternated in size; the whorl flattened and oblique above the angle, with four unequal revolving lines; lower whorls of the spire with three prominent revolving lines on the lower half, and a fine intermediate line ; upper half with three minute revolving lines, and a larger prominent one below and near the suture ; aperture and canal half the length of theshell. Length]. Allied to P. servata, but wants the longitudinal ribs of that species. Rare. Phorus humilis. Depressed ; volutions five, with comparatively large shells and fragments adhering : body whorl very wide, much depressed ; base flat; near the peri- . phery concave. Width 8-10. Height i. I found but one specimen of its shell, which seems to be less elevated than the other species. Buccinum Mississippiensis. Turreted ; whorls eight, three from the apex smooth and entire; the others with longitudinal regular distant ribs and intermediate wrinkles; revolving lines raised, alternated in size: labrum with eleven raised lines within, not extending to the margin; columella striated. Length 5-10. Common. Typhis curvirostratus. Subfusiform ; volutions 8, scalariform, varices or ribs profound ; tubes long ; that near the margin of aperture thick, elongated, beak elongated, spiniform, much curved. Length 1-10. Notuncommon. - 286 [Ocr. 1847. Murex Mississippiensis. Subfusiform, with three elevated varices, and an intermediate prominent obtuse longitudinal ridge ; between two of the varices on the body whorl is a smaller ridge; revolving lines prominent, alternated in size, profound on the varices; longitudinal wrinkles distinct; labium with six prominent lines within, the margin regularly foliated; canal long. Length, 1 7-10. North American, uncommon. It belongs to the subgenus Puy.ionora of Swainson. Melongena crassi-cornuta. Kusiform : whorls concave above, and having a series of thick prominent nodes on the angle of the whorls; on the body whorl they are very large and thick, becoming spines towards the mouth, that nearest the margin a very thick, long, recurved spine; towards the base is a series of thick short spines, revolving lines coarse, unequal, not very prominent, waved; longitudinal wrinkles coarse and distinct. Length of fragment 3. I found but one specimen of this fine shell, and cut off the base in digging it out of the clay. The genus Metoncena has no affinity with the type of Pyruna of Lamarck (Funcur of Montford.) Its true position will probably be among the Purpv- nine. Ihave referred to this genus the Fusus coronaof Lamarck. The species have a remarkable sinus at the upper end of the labrum. 1. Fusus spiniger. Fusiform, with revolving lines, and a series of elevated acute spines on the angle of the large whorl; the series continued on the whorls of the spire near; the suture; two upper whorls entire ; sides above the tubercles flattened, with the revolving lines fine and indistinct; volutions seven; beak produced ; labrum striated within. Length 13. Very rare. It belongs to the genus Hemifusus of Swainson. 2. Fusus Mississippiensis. Narrow-fusiform ; volutions eight or nine, convex, with distant profound, rounded ribs, and fine regular ornamental wrinkles ; canal much longer than the aperture; labrum striated within: beak narrow, produced, slightly bent. Length 12. 3. Fusus Vicksburgensis. Fusiform ; whorls convex, with revolving raised lines alternated in size, and fine longitudinal wrinkled lines; large whorl ventricose; beak somewhat bent. Length 1}. Ficus Mississippiensis. Pyriform, thin and fragile, latticed, with acute prominent lines, the revolv- ing one largest and distant, the interstices with minute revolving lines ; lon- situdinal lines closely arranged, equal; spire very short, whorls convex, the two nearest the apex entire; large volution flattened at top. Length 1}. Ocr. 1847] 287 Chenopus liratus. Ovate, with a thick dilated labrum; whorls nine, convex, ribbed longitudinal- ly, and with revolving lines; ribs curved, undulated on the body whorl and subnodose above; body whorl gibbous; aperture narrow; callus of the labium profound. Length 3. Very rare. I have adopted the above generic name because, as Phillipi observes, the Pterocera lambis was made the type of the genus APooRHAIS. Ringicula Mississippiensis. Ovate acute, whorls five or six, convex, with minute revolving lines ; su- ture profound, margin carinated by a submarginal impressed line; columel- 13 two-plaited. Length 1-10. Abundant on Dr. Smith’s plantation near Vicks- burg. Actewon Andersoni. Oblong subovate; whorls six, with regular impressed revolving lines, inter- stices minutely striato-punctate ; spire acutely conical, whorls convex ; lines on the shoulder indistinct ; aperture about equal to half the length of the shell. Length 4-10. An elegantly formed and very rare species, dedicated to James D. Anderson) Esq., of Vicksburg, who first collected the fosssils of that locality and stud- ied the species. 1. Canecellaria Mississippiensis. Subovate ; whorls five or six, turreted ; ribs prominent, ten or eleven on the large volution, one or two considerably larger than the others; revolving lines -raised, distinct, alternated in size on the lower half of the body whorl; labrum striated within ; columella concave, three-plaited. Length $. 2. Cancellaria funerata. Oblong ovate with large longitudinal ribs and prominent revolving lines; spire rather elevated, turreted, whorls six, convex; two from the apex entire; ribs on the body whorl profound, unequal; labrum with nine prominent lines within, not extending to the margin; columella three-plaited. Length $. Very, rare. 1. Triton crassidens. Subfusiform, a little distorted; spire acuminated; whorls latticed, the lougitudinal ridges rather distant, prominent; body whorl with the longitu- dinal ribs distant, and on the angle some of them very prominent or subtu- berculous; labrum with one large thick prominent tubercle, and with trans- verse plaits and grains: columella profoundly excavated ; canal short. Length 1 6-10. I have given the name of crassidens to this species to distinguish it from 7. cancellinus, the large tooth on the labrum being very thick and prominent: The large plait on the upper part of the labium in much smaller than the cor- responding one in cancellinus. It differs in other particulars though the two species are nearly allied. , 39 288 (Ocr. 1847. 2. Triton abbreviatus. Short-subovate: whorls six, longitudinally ribbed, and with strong alternated revolving lines; whorls of the spire slightly convex, the two nearest the apex entire, rounded; body whorl inflated, and having one large varix; the ribs about fifteen in number; submargin of labrum denticulate ; canal short, oblique, straight, aperture and canal about half the length of the shell. Length 4-10. 3. Triton Mississippiensis. Acutely subovate; volutions six or seven, latticed, the longitudinal and re- volving lines subequal ; one varix on the large volution opposite to that on the submargin of the labrum, both elevated and narrow or subcompressed: two varices narrow and prominent on three whorls of the spire; submargin of labrum with six teeth ; columella with five transverse plaits, and two or three near the upper angle of aperture. Length } nearly. Of this species I obtained one specimen only. Cassidaria lintea. Elliptical, with fine closely-arranged revolving lines, crossed by finer longi- tudinal lines, most distinct towards the margin of the labrum ; spire prominent, acute, cancellated; penultimate whorl slightly tuberculated at base ; angle of large whorl with unequal small tubercles, wanting towards the labium mar- gin; labium striated above, and with rugose plaits below ; submargin of labi- um striated within, margin entire. Length 1}. 1. Cassis celatura. Short-elliptical, with revolving lines and serious of nodes and granules ; tubercles profound on the angle of the body whorl ; spire prominent, whorls cancellated ; the upper half with a profound revolving line; labium granulated and striated throughout, the upper grains indistinct; labrum with transverse prominent lines. Length 1}. 2. Cassis Mississippiensis. Subovate ; whorls sightly concave above, the angle nodular; body whorl indistinctly ribbed or waved; revolving lines distinct but fine; body whorl with one sharp compressed varix or carina ; apex papillated ; pillar with trans- verse rugose plaits throughout ; submargin of labrum regularly and profoundly dentate. Length 9-10. Very rare. Oniscia harpula. Obovate, latticed; longitudinal ribs angular, distant, about ten on the large whorl, with a slightly foliated and waved margin ; revolving lines large, dis- tant, about twelve on the body whorl ; spire scalariform, the ribs divided by an impressed line; submargin of labrum obtusely dentate. Length 1 2-10. Very rare. Fulgoraria Mississippiensis. Elliptical, volutions nine, fluted, the ridges distant, acute, and generally one or two of them large, thick and very remote from each other, on the body whorl; spire conical, acute; aperture auriform; columella with nearly equal plaits, not oblique; labium thick, with a sharp margin. Length 13. Common. Ocr. 1847.] 289 Oliva Mississippiensis. Subelliptical ; volutions six and a half; onthe middle of the body whorl isa slightly impressed revolving line. Length 11-10. Usual size ?. Abundant. 1. Mitra conquisita. Fusiform, slender, smooth and polished; whorls eleven, slightly convex ; penultimate whorl entire, except at the summit, where there are two impressed lines forming a raised line between them ; the other whorls of the spire with revolving lines, and towards the apex the intervening spaces transversely wrinkled ; apex acute; body whorl above the aperture, except the lines near the suture, without strie; inferiorly striated; aperture narrow; labinm 3-plaited. Length 1410. Very rare. 2. Mtra Mississippiensis. Narrow-fusiform, with eight whorls, flattened at the sides and slightly sca- lariform; whole surface with revolving unequal lines and longitudinal fine wrinkles, obsolete on the lines but distinct on the intervening spaces ; aperture more than half the length of the shell; columella 3-plaited. Length 1%. Rare. In the young shell the strie are prominent over the whole surface, but in adult specimens they become slightly impressed lines on the ventricose portion of the body. 3. Mitra cellulifera. Elevated-subfusiform; slender; whorls slightly turreted; longitudinally ribbed ; interstices with transverse impressed lines, resembling puncte or cells ; beak produced; labium 4-plaited, the second one from the top divided by a slightly impressed line. Length ?. Rare. 4. Mitra staminea. Elliptical, whorls eight, slightly turreted, longitudinally ribbed; ribs small, numerous ; whorls with distinct impressed revolving lines ; body whorl ventri- cose; aperture about half the length of the shell; pillar 4-plaited, the three upper ones nearly equal. Length 4-10. 5. Mitra Vicksburgensis. Elliptical, small; whorls slightly convex, with fine longitudinal ribs, obsolete towards the suture inferiorly and wanting on the lower half of the body; suture profound; aperture more than half the length of the shell; pillar 4-plaited, the three upper ones nearly or quite equal in size. Distinguished from the preceding by wanting the revolving lines, and in being wider in proportion to itslength. 3-10. Caricella demissa. Subfusiform ; whorls six, convex, one or two whorls near the apex distinctly striated longitudinally, and with minute revolving lines; upper part of the whorls slightly concave; apex papillated, first and second volutions smooth, entire; beak striated; aperture about two-thirds the length of the shell; colu- mella 4-plaited. Length 13- Scobinella. Shell subfusiform, with a deep angular sinus in the labrum as in “Pleuro- 290 [Ocr. 1847. toma; spire long, turreted; pillar lip wanting; columella with plaits decreas- ing in size downwards, as in Mitra; canal short. Scobinella celata. Subfusiform ; volutions eleven, slightly scalariform, with longitudinal ir- regular ribs and revolving impressed lines; ribs interrupted on the spire by a tuberculated convex space; suture margined by a row of fine tubercles or grains; labium with four, rarely five plates. Length 1 3-10. This singular shell is perhaps more nearly related to Pleurotoma than to Mitra. The plates in most specimens resemble those of the latter genus, but in one instance where there are five plaits, the middle is the largest and thickest, the lowest one being minute. 1. Turbinella Wilsoni. Fusiform ; spire elevated, acute, volutions ten, angular, nodose, the larger volutions somewhat concave above ; the upper volutions with revolving lines, * obsolete or wanting on the lower ones ; beak with coarse, slightly raised revol- ving lines; aperture narrow; columella with three rather distant compressed plaits, the middle one largest; canal long. Length 5 inches. The young of this species has distinct lines on every part of the shell, ex- cert on the large portion of the body whorl, where they are indistinct and re- mote. This species is named to commemorate the scientific zeal of Dr. Thomas B. Wilson. It is rare, and generally very imperfect. 2. Turbinella protracta. Fusiform, with about nine volutions, with thick, prominent, longitudinal ridges, and revolving, thick, prominent lines, with a fine intervening line; longitudinal wrinkles distinct; whorls concave above; spire elevated, acute ; columella with four plaits, the lower one dentiform ; canal long ; labrum striated within. Length 1 5-10. 3. Turbinella perezilis. Narrow-fusiform, with convex volutions, having large, rounded, longitudi- nal ribs, about six on the large whorl; revolving lines strong, prominent, dis- tant, with a fine intermediate line ; longitudinal wrinkles minute and orna- mental; aperture narrow ; labrum striated within: columella with two large plaits ; beak long and narrow. Length 1. Distinguished from the preceding by its narrower outline, fewer and larger plaits on the pillar, &. It is probably a much smaller species, but as I have one specimen only, its greatest size cannot be determined. Panopea oblongata. Elongated, very inequilateral, ventricose ; extremities rounded : umbo promi- nent, undulated; valves slightly contracted at base in a line with the um- bones: valves gaping at both ends. Length 3}. Occurs in its original vertical position generally with connected valves, but it is extremely friable and difficult to obtain. 1. Mactra Mississippiensis. Subtriangular, equilateral, very thin and fragile, plano-convex, dorsal margin Oct. 1847.j 291 very oblique, nearly straight, extremity acutely rounded, much above the line of the base, which is regularly curved; summit prominent; lunule elongated, defined by an impressed line; umbonial slope nearly terminal, angulated and carinated by a thin line. Length 1 8-10. Height 1 4-10. Proportionally more elevated than M. pretenuis, of Claiborne, Alabama, and a much larger species. Rare. 2. Mactra funcrata.. Triangular, small, convex; much longer than high, equilateral; posterior end angular. Length 3-10. Rare. Amphidesma Mississippiensis. Oblong-oval, somewhat compressed, inequilateral, smooth, with a few distant concentric impressed lines; posterior side with a slight fold, end obtusely rounded; anterior end rounded; cartilage pit very narrow, elliptical; lateral teeth in the right valve distinct, in the left wanting? Length 1 1-10. Height 7-10. 1. Psammobia papyria. Oblong-oval, or somewhat rhomboidal; very thin, compressed; posterior side rather wider than anterior; and posterior to the umbonial slope, which is unde- fined, there are concentric lamelleform lines; anterior margin obliquely rounded; dorsal margin parallel with the base. Length 1}. Rare. 2. Psammobdia lintea. Oblong, compressed, with rather fine, very regular concentric lines closely arranged; anterior margin acutely rounded, the extremity in a line above the middle of the valve; posterior side shortest; hinge line rectilinear, oblique; posterior side with acute lines larger and more prominent than those of the middle and anterior side; umbonial slope subangular. Length 1}. Rare. Crassatella Mississippiensis. Ovate-trigonal, inequilateral, thick and ponderous; surface coarsely striated ; summits flattened, sulcated; umbo plano-convex, with numerous sulci, obsolete behind the umbonial slope, which is angulated and subcarinated above; pos- terior extremity truncated, direct; basal margin slightly contracted anterior to . the umbonial slope; inner margin crenulated. Length 3. Common. This species is variable in outline, and allied to C. tumida of the Paris basin. 1. Cardium eversum. Ovate, elevated, subequilateral; ventricose, thin, with numerous approximate, slender, rounded ribs distinctly crenulated anteriorly towards the margins; um- bonial slope subangulated; posterior extremity subtruncated, direct; summit very prominent; ribs crenulated on the sides, in the middle of the valves, or finely aculeated. Height 12-10. Length not quite as much. Rare. 2. Cardium glebosum. Ovate, ventricose, with numerous flat ribs, slightly carinated on the margins and numerous approximate, prominent arched scales. Height 1}. Rare, and obtained only in fragments. ’ 292 [Ocr. 1847. 3. Cardium diversum. Trigonal, ventricose, subequilateral, thin, with concentric lines and more approximate, fine, but obtuse radiating lines; umbonial slope rounded, and the posterior space from the umbonial slope with profound radiating striz ; posterior side slightly waved or contracted; summits very prominent; basal margin rounded in the middle, contracted posteriorly: posterior extremity subtrunca- ted; inner margin densely crenate. Height1 2-10. Length13-10. Abundant. Allied to C. Nicolletisnob. When viewed through a magnifier, the inter- stices of the concentric lines have a singular imbricated appearance. 4, Cardium Vicksburgense. Cordate, ventricose, with about twenty-four ribs; angular and profound: towards the anterior margin obsolete ; summit prominent ; nearest the anterior end; anterior margin nearly straight and direct; posterior ead subtruncated. Height 3-10. Length 4-10 nearly. Rare. 1. Tellina pectorosa. Subtriangular, elevated, smooth and polished ; ventricose ; beaks medial ; an- terior end obtuse, rounded ; posterior side somewhat cuneiform, with a slight wave or fold; basal margin profoundly rounded. Length 6-10. Height 5-10. 2. Tellina serica. Elliptical, inequivalved; beaks nearest the posterior end; concentric lines very minute and closely arranged; anterior side slightly bent or reflected. Length 7-10. 3. Tellina Vicksburgensis. Triangular, small, with regular minute concentric lines ; anterior end rounded; posterior submargin angular or obscurely carinated, the end obliquely tranca- ted; posterior side shortest, and slightly bent or waved; lateral teeth in the right valve only. Length 3-10. Height 4. Donax funerata. Triangular, small, convex, with obsolete radiating lines ; anterior side short, end truncated, direct; margin within finely crenulated ; lateral teeth none. Length 3-10. Very rare. I found it about 8 miles N. E. of Vicksburg. 1. Cytherea Astartiformis. Trigonal, elevated, ventricose, subequilateral, with numerous regular concen- tric grooves and obtuse ridges ; lunule not defined; summits prominent ; umbo flattened. Length 6-10. Height 3. This shell has a remarkable resemblance on the exterior to some species of Astarte. Rare. 2. Cytherea imitabilis. Cordate, inequilateral, plano-convex, with numerous concentric prominent acute ribs; extremities rounded ; basal margin regularly curved ; lunule ovate, defined by an impressed line. Length 1 7-10. Height 1 3-10. Common. Ocr. 1847.] 998 3. Cytherea Mississippiensis. Subtriangular, ventricose, elevated, with prominent concentric acute ribs, rather distant, and with irregular intervals and fine intermediate lines: poste- rior margin somewhat curved ; basal margin profoundly rounded; summits prominent; inner margin entire. Length 1}. Height the same nearly. Rare. 4, Cytherea sobrina. Subovate, ventricose, polished ; with rather obtuse irregular distant, concen- tric, impressed lines; umbo entire; extremities rounded; base regularly curved. Length11-10. Height 9-10. Very abundant. Almost always with disunited valves. Itis quite thick on the anterior side towards the summit. 5. Cytherea perbrevis. Ovate-triangular, elevated, ventricose: the posterior and anterior margins equally declining and very oblique, the anterior one straight, the posterior slightly curved; beaks medial; surface with numerous regular impressed lines ; basal margin rounded. Length and height 6-10. It is of the size, and has somewhat the form of V. Astartiformis, but the greater elevation, convex umbo, numerous impressed lines, and more rounded base, distinguish it from that species. Rare. Corbis staminea. Suboval, convex, thin, with lamelleform concentric strie, about thirty-seven in number ; posterior side with a slight fold; beaks medial. Length 1. Rare. 1. Lucina Mississippiensis. Orbicular, thin and fragile, with minute obsolete radiating lines; anterior side shortest, the margin obliquely truncated, angular above and elevated: inferior margins rounded ; posterior end obtusely rounded; lunule profound ; cardinal and lateral teeth wanting. Length 9-10. Height 3. This species very much resembles LZ. subvexa of Claiborne, but wants the impressed line on the posterior side. Rare. 2. Lucina perlevis. Orbicular, with lamelleform concentric lines, and very minute obsolete radi- ating lines, closely arranged; beaks medial; posterior end direct; cardinal teeth small. Length 4-10. Height rather less. Very rare. The shells of this subgenus are orbicular, generally punctate within, often very thin and ventricose ; cardinal teeth small and compressed, sometimes obsolete or wanting; lateralteeth none. Lucinaradula, and L. edentula, among recent species, belong to this group. 1. Loripes? turgida. Suborbicular, very thin and fragile, with minute concentric lines; beaks medial; umbo and summit prominent; margins regularly rounded. Height 6-10. Length rather more than 5-10. 2. Loripes eburnea. Suborbicular, slightly oblique, convex, with minute closely arrangedtoncen- 294 [Ocr, 1847. tric lines, anda few larger impressed lines ; posterior margin truncated, direct ; anterior end and anterior basil margins regularly rounded; posterior basal margin obliquely truncated ; beaks nearest the posterior end. Length 6-10. Height 6-10 nearly. Corbula intastriata. Subtriangular, inflated, rostrated posteriorly ; within with fine radiating lines ; Length 4. Very rare. 1. Corbula alta. Subtriangular, profoundly elevated, slightly oblique; larger valve ventri- cose; summit very prominent; umbo broad; hinge plate thick, with large teeth; smaller valve somewhat flattened, angular over the umbonial slope. Length 6-10 nearly. Height 6-10, Oceurs abundantly about 8 miles N. E. of Vicksburg, and always water- worn. 2. Corbula engonata. Triangular, inequilateral, small; valves nearly or quite equally convex, and with angular concentric ridges ; posterior slope concave ; umbonial slope cari- nated. Length 3-10, Chama Mississippiensis. Suboval, irregular, adhering ; larger valve ventricose, with numerous irregu- lar radiating lines, squamose inferiorly ; upper valve with numerous concen- tric lines, with numerous small scales. Length 3. Height 6-10. Rare, and occurs on Dr. Smith’s plantation, 6 miles N. E. of Vicksburg. Pectunculus arctatus. Short-ovate, convex depressed, with little prominent flattened radii, divided by a longitudinal impressed line towards the base ; anterior margin truncated ; posterior margin nearly rectilinear. Length. Height 6-10. Rare, and occurs on the bank of Yazoo river, about 14 miles from Vicksburg. There is in the collection a valve of another species of Pectuneculus, which is small, and resembles the young of P. pulvinatus. 1. Nucula serica. Subelliptical, with minute regular concentric closely-arranged lines ; ante- rior end acutely angular; posterior end acutely rounded; posterior side shortest. Length 3. Common. 2. Nucula Vicksburgensis. Obliquely subtriangular, convex, with minute obsolete radiating lines about the base; lunule elliptical, very large and impressed. Length. Rare. Arca Mississippiensis. A species of Arca occurs in great abundance at Vicksburg, which Lesueur obtained many years since and named it, but I have forgotten the name, and know not whether he published it in Europe or not. It is rhomboidal, ventri- cose, with rather distant ribs in the right valve, slightly grooved in the middle ; in the left valve ribs double and granulated ; inner margin profoundly toothed. Length 8-10. Ocr. 1847.] 295 1. Byssoarca lima. Trapezoidal, cancellated and granulated; radii largest on anterior and pos- terior slopes, but becoming obsolete towards the posterior extremity ; end angu- lar, margin above obliquely truncated; anterior end widely truncated, nearly direct; basal margin undulated, irregular and very variable in outline; hinge line crenulated under the beaks, profoundly toothed towards the extremities : cardinal area with lines strongly defined and angulated under theapex. Length 29-10. Rare. 2. Byssoarca Mississippiensis. Trapezoidal, with numerous closely-arranged radiating lines, crennlated by fine concentric lines, the crenulation most distinct anteriorly, when the radii are largest ; anterior end truncated or a little convex, direct : posterior margin obliquely truncated above ; basal margin widely and profoundly arched ; hinge line long, linear, minutely crenulated, expanded towards the extremities, and with prominent teeth ; cardinal area with fine very closely-arranged lines, angu- lated under the apex. Length 1 6-10. Differs from the preceding in having a longer hinge, finer radii, &c., and is a much smaller species and more abundant. 3. Byssoarca protracta. Trapezoidal, elongated, with numerous radiating lines, some of which are double, and others alternated in size and finely crenulated; dorsal margin, parallel with the base; anterior margin truncated, posterior a little concave, oblique, end very acutely rounded or subangular; basal margin slightly con- tracted; hinge line long, rectlinear, very regular and gradually increasing in width towards the extremities from the apex; cardinal area wide, depressed concave, with a few fine impressed angular lines. Length 14. Height 4 nearly. A pretty species of which I found one valve only. Avicula argentea. Ovate-subquadrangular, thin and fragile, ventricose above, smooth and entire? anterior wing sharply angular; posterior wing not produced, rectangular at the: extremity ; posterior end angular, extending beyond the hinge line and much above the line of the base; anterior margin and base form a regular rounded outline. Height 14. Length 1 4-10. Not common. Modiola Mississippiensis. Slightly arched, elongated, ventricose, with rather fine closely-arranged radi- ating lines wanting on the anterior side ; region of umbonial slope inflated pos- terior end acutely rounded; beak angulated posteriorly; substance of shell silvery and perlaceous. 2-10th from beak to base. Rare, except in one spot, where I obtained several specimens and fragments. . Pinna argentea. Trianugular, with straight margins and acute summit ; compressed ; substance highly polished and silvery ; valves with longitudinal radii on more than half 296 [Ocr. 1847. the disc, about thirteen in number ; anterior side with rugose, obtuse, oblique, finer and more approximate lines. Length 23. Rare. Lima staminea. Subovate, oblique, inflated, with fine radiating lines; ears very small, scarcely defined ; posterior margin rectilinear. Height 4-10. Very similar in outline to the Miocene species, L. papyria, but it is much smaller, and has more numerous lines anteriorly. Rare. Pecten. A valve of a small species was obtained. It is orbicular and entire, and re- sembles P. calvatus, (Morton.) Ostrea Vicksburgensis. Plicated; very irregular and adhering, the upper valve not fiat, but swelling in an irregular manner. Height 1}. There is nothing peculiar about this shell, yet it is clearly distinct from any other species of the American Tertiary hitherto described. Common. Pholas triquetra. Subtriangular, depressed and angulated posterior to the middle, and with an impressed line from beak to base; surface with oblique lines anteriorly, and a few radiating towards the margin ; posterior side reflected and with oblique lines meeting the anterior ones at au angle; a few obsolete radiating lines, one more conspicuous than the others, near the margin. Length 6-10. Height }. I found one valve only, which occurred on Dr. Smith’s plantation. Madrepora Mississippiensis. Rounded; cells numerous, very unequal in size, prominent, some of them very large, the sides with strong longitudinal lines, and the interstices with minute closely-arranged longitudinal lines; rays about fourteen, minutely crenulated on the edge, alternated with a short plate; centre with irregular grains. Diameter 6-10. Madrepora Vicksburgensis, Irregular, ramose, somewhat flattened ; cells unequal in size, with a slightly prominent margin; submargin depressed, striated ; rays alternated with a short plate ; centre granulated. A larger species than the preceding, the branches being sometimes an inch in diameter. Abundant. Turbinolia caulifera. Somewhat turbinate, rather long, with fine equal granulated longitudinel lines; base stem-like ; rays ramose; larger end oval. Length 8-10. Rare. Lunulites. Two or three species of Lunulites occur in the Eocene of Vicksburg. LIunulites Vicksburgensis. Cup-shaped or somewhat conical, with very small cells, generally equal in size, subangular, and between each series is a minute impressed radiating line: interior stria ramose and very minutely crenulated. Height 2. Ocr. 1847.] 297 Descriptions of New Eocene Fossils in the Cabinet of LarpNER VANUXEM. The following organic remains were obtained from Eocene rocks in St. Mat- thew’s Parish, Orangeburg District, S. C., by Lardner Vanuxem. 1. Nucula mucronata. Elliptical, convex in the middle, with equal, laminated, not closely-arranged lines, about seventeen in number ; anterior side longest, the end acutely pointed ; a submarginal furrow emarginates the base; posterior side slightly contracted, end obtusely rounded or subtruncated. Length 9-10. Height 5. 2. Nucula carolinensis. Somewhat elliptical, convex, with ratker closely-arranged prominent concen- trie lines, wanting on the posterior side, which is rather shorter that the an- terior and regularly rounded at the end; anterior submargin with a narrow groove, bounded,by a subcarinated line; anterior side narrowed and rather ob- tuse atthe end. Length 4. Height }. 3. Nucula subtrigona. Subtriangular, ventricose, nearly equilateral, with numerous prominent con- centric lines ; anterior side pointed, flexuous ; submargin angulated: anterior margin sinuous, end angular; ligament margin straight; basal margin pro- foundly rounded. Length 3. Height } nearly. 4. Nucula calcarensis.. Subovate, ventricose, with minute closely-arranged concentric lines; ante- rior side longest, pointed, slightly recurved, without a submarginal groove or fold ; base profoundly rounded. Length 7-16. Height }. 1. Cardita vigintinaria. Suborbicular, inequilateral, ventricose, with about thirty square radii, about as wide as the interstices; umbonial slope rounded; anterior margin subtrun- ’ cated. Length 7-8. Height 7-8. 2. Cardita carolinensis. Suborbicular? profoundly ventricose, with about thirty very prominent square radii, on the anterior side sharp, recurved and crenulated ; lunule very broad and cordate, deeply impressed; hinge thick; pit anterior to the cardi- nal tooth small and profound. This is a fragment of the right valve, about 5-8ths of an inch long. 3. Cardita bilineata. Subrhomboidal, very inequilateral, with about tweaty-four wide, flattened radii, with very narrow interstices, a carina in the middle of each rib, with an impressed line on each side of it; ribs crenulated anteriorly ; carina some- what tuberculated on the posterior side of the shell. Length #. Height 9-16. 298 (Oor. 1847. 4, Cardita subquadrata. Trapezoidal, compressed; valves flattened in the middle ; radii about twenty- five, broad on the disk, with very narrow interstices, and each rib with a crenu- lated carina in the middle; posterior to umbonial slope the ribs are smooth, not carinated ; anterior side short, rounded at the end; posterior margin obliquely truncated. Length 6-10. Height 7-20. 5. Cardita subrotunda., Orbicular, inequilateral, ventricose, with about twenty-eight rounded promi- nent narrow radii; ligament margin very oblique, short; ends obtusely rounded inner margin slightly crenulated. Length}. Height 4. Turbo biliratus. Turbinate ; volutions four, flattened above; body whorl with two distant revolving carinated lines, and intermediate fine revolving lines; volutions of the spire with a carinated line below the middle. Length 3. Width {. 1. Cerithium bicostellatum. Turreted ; volutions eight or nine. angular and carinated below the middle: body whorl bicarinated. Length $. 2. Cerithium siliceum. Turreted ; whorls rounded below, contracted or concave above, and with re- volving lines; suture profound. A fragment. Width 3. Infundibulum carinatum. Depressed, with a suddently elevated acutely conical spire, and a carinated line revolving at the suture. Length of fragment §. All the preceding fossils are from the Eocene rocks of St. Matthew’s Parish, Orangeburg District, S. C. Not one species of this locality is known in the lower Eocene of Claiborne or elsewhere, nor in the upper Eocene of Vicksburg, and therefore the relative age of the deposit is uncertain, but it unquestionably belongs to the Eocene period. Near this rock Mr. Vanuxem found quite a dif- ferent class of shells, consisting of casts in indurated clay. The relative posi- tion is undetermined. Two of the shells are described and named Tellina sub- egualis and Lutraria petrosa. Tellina subequalis. Somewhat elliptical, nearly equilateral; posterior end acutely rounded; an- terior slightly bent, end rounded. (A cast.) Length 1}. Width 3. Madrepora punctulata. Cylindrical, ramose with prominent cells; whole surface ornamented with fine, equal, punctate, impressed lines. Diameter 3. Locality. St. Mathew’s Parish, Orangeburg, S.C. Vanuxem. A species highly ornamented by the punctate vermicular lines. It occurs much larger than the speeimen described. In Vanuxem’s collection there is a cast, from the Eocene near Long Branch, Ee ee ee Ocr. 1847.] 299 N. J., resembling Nautilus zig-zag, (Sow.) It is more compressed than that species, and the angles of the septa appear to be in contact near the periphery. It is more like a Goniatite than a Nautilus, and may properly constitute a genus, which I propose to name Nautilopsis. Nautilopsis Vanuxemi. Length 23. Diameter 1 5-16. NV. zig-zag may be referred to the same genus, ‘The Society, in accordance with the resolution adopted at last meeting for business, proceeded to the election of a Recording Secretary in the place of Mr. Moss, resigned—when Mr. John Lambert was unanimously elected. A letter was read from Mr. Wm. C. Redfield, dated New York, Oct. 19, 1847, requesting the loan of the Westfield specimens of fossil fish, in the collection of the Academy, for the purpose of description by Mr. Agassiz, in his Memoir. on the American Fossil Fishes from the New Red Sandstone, now in course of preparation. On motion, the By-law relating to the loan of specimens from the Museum, was temporarily suspended, and the request of Mr. Redfield complied with by the Society, under proper restrictions. ELECTION. Messrs. Charles Lennig, J. Dickinson Sergeant, Edward M. Kern, Charles Klemm, and Prof. James B. Rogers, all of Phila- delphia, were elected Members ; and Dr. P. W. Korthals, of Leyden, was elected a Correspondent. - gery vag —- F die ALOd wereld saa : ly reves in ea 7 ~~ = a0 heh tee & ots dean wnt < 4 eee 1 ah i ee Ek x ie ‘vf Dale » i Maya: Welinett ey oS : mae | £a/€ S| g5\4 General Nat. Histor Brought over) 453) 250/73 and Zoology, ‘ t Th pe Agriculture, mK 1 3 Botany, 21} 28) 8|/Voyages and Travels, 34 1 Conchology, 41} 13) 6\|/Languages, 1 1 Geology, 60! 38/25||Bibliography, 17 Ornithology, 79| 65) 9||Education, 2 Herpetology, 12 Geography, 11 Ichthyology, 2 Journals, Annals, Entomology, 6} 12] 1]- Trans. & Proceed. ot} 97} 109 Mineralogy, 2 Soc., Memoirs, &c., Anatomy and 11 9 Biography, 1 Physiology, History, 2 Helminthology, 1 Useful Arts, 2 Physical Science é 311 118 Antiquities, 8 and Chemistry, Addresses, Reports, &c.,) 1 4 Medicine, 3 4 Carried over, 453| 250|73 Totals, 630} 359/82 Making a total of 1072 additions of all descriptions to the Library in 1847. Of the whole number, there were presented by authors 54; by editors 31; by members, correspondents and others 119; by Societies 56; obtained by purchase or exchange 25; deposited by Dr. Thomas B. Wilson 586; by Dr. R. E. Griffith 163 ; and by J. Price Wetherill, Esq., 96. Two charts were derived from the U. S. Treasury Department; one from Mr. R. C. Taylor, and one from Dr. Wilson. The above statements show a greater increase in the Library during the last twelve months, than has occurred at any period since that in which it re- ceived the noble contributions of its early benefactor William Maclure. It will be seen also how very large a proportion of the whole number of additions has been derived from our fellow member Dr. Wilson. From a reluctance to occupy the time of the Society too long with this report,I refrain from a reca- pitulation of the titles of the numerous splendid works deposited by this gentle- man, and must content myself therefore with referring those, who may be de- sirous of forming some estimate of their great value, both in actual cost, and as works of Science, to the printed Proceedings, in which they have been already fully announced. Nearly all ofthem have been imported from abroad expressly Dec. 1847. ] 339 for this Library, and have been placed here by him with the sole object and desire to foster and encourage a spirit of investigation, especially in the de- partments of Ornithology, Geology and Conchology. In these acts the depositor has evinced an amount of disinterested gene- rosity, and of zeal for the promotion of science, rarely to be found combined in the same individual, and which have secured for him the lasting esteem and gratitude of all connected with the Institution. To Dr. Griffith, the Society owes its highest acknowledgements for the deposit of a large number of works in the various branches of Science, many of them very rare and old, and probably contained in few public or private Libraries in this country. Through Mr, Wetherill, the Library has been enriched the present year, with several important and valuable Geological works, and itis also in- debted to him for completing its series of others, parts only of which it previously possessed. In closing this report, an opportunity is afforded me of stating to the Society that, during the ensuing year, the Library Committee, in conjunction with the Librarian, propose to select from the numerous miscellaneous works in the collection, such of them as may appear either extraneous to the objects of the Society, or of little value or utility in any form to the members, and to exchange these for other works, either on subjects of Natural History, or of an otherwise really useful character, and also to allow room for further additions of the latter description. A list of those proposed to be rejected will, however, be first submitted to the Society, and its consent fully obtained, before any action will be taken by the Committee. Wa. S. ZANTZINGER, December 28th, 1847. Librarian. REPORT OF THE CURATORS for the year 1847. At no time since the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia was instituted, has its condition been more prosperous than at present; and indeed, it is such as to form an important epoch in the progress of Natural Science in America. This successful state is mainly attributable to the interest which our fellow-member and co-labourer, Dr. Thomas B. Wilson, has latterly takenin it. In 1846, this gentleman, through his brother, Mr. Edward Wilson, of Lydstep House, South Wales, a Correspondent of the Academy, purchased, in Paris, the large and magnificent collection in orni- thology of the Duc de Rivoli, which, upon importing to this country, he resolved to deposit in the Academy, and at his private expense increased the building to an extent commensurate with the end in view—the accom- modation of this vast addition to the Musuem. More space was also ae 340 [Dec. 1847 obtained in the museum, by removing the library, which had occupied several ranges of cases, into the basement room of the new part of the building. In May, 1847, Dr. Wilson made a second large purchase in Ornithology, in England, of Mr. A. Gould’s splendid collection of Australian birds. which renders a further increase of space necessary for its accommo- dation. For this purpose, Dr. Wilson obtained ready permission of the Academy to convert its little used lecture room into part of the museum) which work is rapidly progressing towards completion. The north east basement room is also undergoing change for the same object. In accordance with the original plan of the building, all the additions and improvements to it have been made fire-proof. When completed, the collections of the Academy will be contained in three rooms, as follow : The first or upper room, or hall, is one hundred and ten feet in length, by forty-two in breadth, and is lighted from above, and from the eagt and west extremities. On the north and south sides are three galleries, and four ranges of vertical cases, and a range of foot cases at the outer edge of the second gallery. Onthe west side are three galleries and four ranges of vertical cases, on the east side two galleries and two ranges of vertical cases. The two lower ranges of cases on the south side, for two- thirds the length of the room, corresponding to the old part, are occupied by Dr. S. G. Morton’s extensive series of human and other crania, and the col- lection in Comparative Anatomy. The lowest range of cases on the north side, for the same extent as those just mentioned, contains the collection of Mammalia; and the range above this, Dr. Dickeson’s collection of Ameri- can antiquities and the Carpological cabinet, and leads into the herba- rium room in the north east corner. All the remaining ranges of cases mentioned contain the Ornithological collection. The floor of the hall is to be occupied by ranges of horizontal, centrally vertical, double cases for the reception of the collection in Paleontology. One of these ranges has been already finished, and part of the collection arranged in it ; the others arein progress of construction. Atthe east extremity, on each side, is a strong vertical case, containing the skeletons of large fossil Sauri in massive slabs of lias limestone. The second or east basement room is forty-one feet in length by forty in breadth, with a gallery all around it and communicating with another running through its centre. This room will be appropriated to the Minera- logical, Conchological, Herpetological, and Ichthyological collections. The third, or north east basement room is sixteen feet. by nine feet, has a gallery on three of its sides, and is to accommodate the collections of Crustacea and Entomology. The state of the different departments of the museum, as they at present exist, with the additions which have been made during the past year, will now be briefly referred to. Mammalogy.—The expensive character of the larger objects in this branch of Zoology, as well as the amount of space required for their proper accom- modation, have prevented the Academy from accumulating any great number of them. We possess most of the North American species, besides Oe Dec. 1847.] 341 afew foreign ones. During the past year a comparatively large number has been received, and it is to be hoped that efforts will be made towards a further increase. We enumerate for 1847, eighty mounted specimens and ~ five skins of Mammalia, chiefly of foreign species, presented by Dr. Wilson, and six specimens presented by Dr. Thomas S. Savage, Mr. Germain, &c. Ornithology.—OFf this department, in which at this time we stand equal to any in the world, a special report is hereto appended, prepared by Mr. Jobn Cassin, who, with Mr. Wm. Gambel, has particularly attended to its arrangement. In Oology, belonging to the department of Ornithology, in the past year we received in donations, eggs of 79 species of birds, principally from Dr. Wilson and Mr. William H. Edwards. Herpetology.—Our collection ot Reptilia is a large and valuable one. A Part of it, however, is not in the best state of preservation, but will be early attended to in the coming year, and before any loss of consequence is sus- tained. During the past year 88 species of Reptilia have been presented, chiefly by Drs. Hallowell, Savage, Wilson, and Hildreth. Ichthyology.—In this department we have not made much advance. It is to be hoped the Academy will hereafter encourage this branch more than it has done. During the past year, Dr. Thomas S, Savage presented several jars of fishes from Western Africa, many of which are probably new, and we are indebted to several members for a large specimen of the rare Squatina Dumerili. Mollusca.—The arrangement of the conchological cabinet has been kindly undertaken by Dr. R. E. Griffith, who with the greatest liberality is also in- corporating with it his own private collection, which, as he progresses, he presents to the Academy. In this step he has been followed by the ever liberal Wilson, so that when the collection is fully arranged, with the addi- tion of the two private cabinets, it will contain between 9 and 10,000 spe- cies, many of them of the most valuable character. During the past year there have been presented 1209 species of shells by Dr. R. E. Griffith; 383 species by Dr. T. B. Wilson; 200 species by Wm. - Thompson, Esquire, of Ireland ; 40 species by Mr. C. B. Adams; 31 species by Mr. T. A. Conrad; and 30 species by several others, inall 1893 species, and almost 2300 varieties. Entomology.—The destruction of the Academy’s once fine collection of Coleoptera and Lepidoptera, for a while quite discouraged those members who were particularly interested in this department, but the general stimulus which has been infused into the Academy by the rich contributions to other departments, has aroused them once more to exertion in the formation of a new collection, which already bids fair to surpass the one lost. Our fellow member, Mr. R. Kilvington, during the past year, made a liberal dona: tion of 1035 specimens, comprising 345 species of British Lepidoptera. and Dr. T.S. Savage has recently presented a collection in alcohol, of large and x 342 (Dec. 1847. magnificent Coleoptera from Western Africa, many of which are new spe- cies. Crustacea.—Our collection of Crustacea, numbers 162 species, and was carefully arranged during the past summer by Dr. Lewis R. Gibbes, of South Carolina, and catalogued by Dr. R. Bridges. Twelve species have been presented the past year by several of the members. Zoophytes.—Eighty-nine specimens of fifty-nine species of corallines and sponges, and three species of Echinodermata have been presented in the course of the last year. Comparative Anatomy.—Additions still continue to be made te Dr. §. G. Morton’s large and magnificent series of human crania, which now con- tains upwards of seven hundred specimens of many nations and of various epochs. . . At present there appears to be a strong disposition amongst the members to attend more particularly to the heretofore rather neglected department of Comparatve Anatomy. During the past year 385 crania, comprising 260 species of animals, have been presented, principally by Drs. Wilson, Morton, and Huffnagle. Among the number may be particularly mentioned the very large and perfect specimens of crania of Crocodilus vulgaris and Gavialis gangeticus. Eight mounted skeletons have also been presented, among which are a fine and large skeleton of Felis tigris from Dr. Huffnagle, and a beautiful skeleton 12 feet long of Boa Constrictor from several of the members. Botany.—The botanical collection comprises upwards of 40,000 species of dried plants, and about 1000 species of dried fruits. It has been kept in a good state of preservation up to the present time, but has lately been slightly injured by insects; the further ravages of which, will however, be prevented. Palezontology.—The collection of organic remains which occupied the range of cases on the upper gallery of the south side of the hall, has been removed to the cases prepared for its reception on the floor of the hall, and is in progress of arrangement by Dr. Wilson. It has received very exten- sive and invaluable accessions during the past year, and when completely arranged will contain in the neighbourhood of 20,000 specimens. In it are the valuable collections of Mr. R. C. Taylor, J. Price Wetherill, Esq., Dr. Morton, Mr. T. A. Conrad, Dr. Dickeson, Miss Benett, &c. The last year Dr. Wilson deposited in the Academy five very nearly perfect skeletons of large fossil Saurians. One of these is the Plesiosaurus Hawkinsii, three are species of Ichthyosauri, and the fifth is the Telosaurus, or Gavial de Boll of Cuvier. Mr. Conrad presented 2000 specimens from the Miocene of France, the Eocene, Cretaceous, Oolitic, mountain limestone, and Salurian formations of England and France. Mr. R. C. Taylor has presented an extensive collec- tion of very large and beautiful specimens of coal plants of Pennsylvania, be- sides numerous other fossils, which have not yet beenexamined. Numerous ee Dec. 1847.] 343 specimens of coal plants from Prof. W. R. Johnson, Green sand fossils of Germany, from Dr. F. Roemer, Silurian fossils of New York from Mr. W. A. Pease, and many others, have been received. Dr. Wilson has also deposited about 10,000 fossils, which are already in progress of arrangement, and which he intends presenting to the Academy so soon as a list can be made out. Mineralogy and Geology—The mineralogical collection is at present carefully packed up in boxes, preparatory to its removal to the north-east basement room, now undergoing alteration. We are indebted to the gene- rosity of Mr. R. C. Taylor for a donation during the last year, of a large col- lection of rocks, comprising several thousand varieties from different parts of North America and the West India Islands. Forty specimens of minerals, some of them very beautiful, have been pre- sented by members and others during the past year. In the course of the arrangement of the mineralogical collection, which several gentlemen have kindly consented to undertake, we have good reason to believe that large additions will be made from the private cabinets of members interested in this department. Physics.—The last year Mr. Henry Seybert deposited in the Academy a valuable chemical apparatus for the use of the members, which we hope ere long may prove of essential service to the Institution. The great increase and importance of the museum and library of the Aca- demy, have rendered it necessary that both should be under regular daily supervision. The Academy, therefore, has made it the duty of the chairman of the Curators and Librarian to be present alternately during certain hours daily for this purpose. We conclude this report by stating that the greatest good feeling and har- mony prevails among the members of the Society, all of whom desire to promote the interests of this noble Institution and the cause of science in general. JosePH LEIDY, December 28th, 1847. Chairman of Curators. —_———— SPECIAL REPORT ON THE ORNITHOLOGICAL DEPARTMENT. The operations in the Ornithological department of the Academy have beeu of so highly important, not to say of so extraordinary a character, during the year now about closing, that the undersigned Curator, who has been exclu- sively engaged in that department, hopes he may be allowed to submit a special report, in compliance with a request made by the chairman of the Curators. I have the high gratification of reporting, that through the ardent attach- ment to the study of the Natural Sciences, and the great personal enterprize also, of a member of this Society, a collection has been organized, which, as 344 (Dec. 1847. it now stands, is one of the first extant, and when further additions already engaged shall have arrived, the Ornithological collection of this Academy will be probably the most extensive and complete in the world. The collection, well known in Europe as that of the Prince Massena, Duke et Rivoli, has been received. This large collection, the arrangement of which is now nearly completed, consists of not less than twelve thousand five hundred specimens, from all parts of the world, and in a very superior state of preservation. Where so many of the families and genera of birds are alike fully repre- sented, it is not easy to pronounce in which of these a collection is most remarkable; this distinction, however, in the Rivoli collection, I am in- clined to award to the Rapacious birds, in the various genera of which it is not only almost absolutely complete, but very many of the species are illus- trated by series of specimens showing varieties of plumage, or distinctions of sex, age and season, in the most satisfactory manner. Of the Aquila chrysaetos, (Linn.) or Golden Eagle, for instance, there are six specimens : of the Aquila Bonellii, (Bonap.) also six; of the Aquila nzvia, (Gm.) five; of the Aquila vulturina. (Daud.) a large black Eagle from South Africa, four specimens; of the Haliztus vocifer, (Daud.) six; of the Helotarsus ecauda- tus, (Daud.) six; of the Pernis apivorus. (Linn.) ten; of the Buteo unicinctus, (Temm.) nine; of the Buteo aguia, (Temm.) nine specimens; and many of the smaller or more variable species are even more fully represented. Of the Astur magnirostris, (Gm.) for instance, we have fifteen specimens, of the Accipiter nisus, (Linn.) thirteen, of the Meliecrax musicus, (Daud. twelve, ot the Circus cinerascens, (Mont.) fifteen, of the Falco peregrinus, Gm., fourteen, and of one species, the Falco sparverius, Linn., twenty-six speci- mens were not considered too many to illustrate its supposed changes and varieties ; and even with these the Duke or his Curator appears to have been scarcely satisfied, for among the specimens in the collection, marked as un- determined, were six others of this species. I mention this case, more par- ticularly, because it affords an example of the extraordinary care and atten- tion shown by the former proprietor of this collection ; not even a variety, of any possible consequence in the representation of a species, having been neglected, when attainable, notwithstanding the previous existence in the collection of numerous specimens of the same species. Of Vultures, all the known species, except three, are in the Rivoli col- lection; one of which, I may observe, has been obtained from another source. Taking into consideration the comparative difficulty of collecting Rapa- cious birds, and more especially of forming such series of specimens as are to be found in this collection, its great scientific value in the Order Rap- tores ; is sufficiently evident. Nor are other Orders far behind the Raptores, and it is rather a remark- able as well as interesting character, that in many genera the species of which are of more difficult attainment, such as the larger swimmers, waders and gallinaceous birds, the Rivoli collection is particularly complete. Of the Natatores, or swimming birds, the collection is scarcely second to Dec. 1847.] 345 that of the Rapacious birds. I beg leave to refer to the splendid collections of the species constituting the various genera of geese, ducks, cormorants and gulls, now beautifully arranged by Mr. Gambel, for the truth of my assertion. The genera Diomedea, Porcellaria and Thalassidroma, are also very amply illustrated. The specimens of the several species of Pelicans, are highly interesting, as are also those of Alca impennis, Linn., Phaleris cristatella, Gm., Mormon glacialis, Linn., and others of species which like these, only inhabit the Arctic regions. The magnificent series of specimens of the Flamingos, also wii! be found especially worthy of notice. The order Grallatores, or wading birds, is very extensively represented ; the various genera of plovers, herons, storks, ibises,—in fact, scarcely a genus can be named which is not fully illustrated. The genus Grus, or cranes, is especially worthy of attention. I may notice, too, the various species of Ibis, particulaly the Ibis religiosa, Cuv., or sacred Ibis of the Ancient Egyptians, of which a suite of specimens will be found in its proper place. Of the Rasores or Gallinaceous birds, the Pigeons number one hundred and twenty species. The genera Perdix, Phasianus, Pterocles, Tetrao and Otis are richly repre- sented, as are also the beautiful genera Gallus, Lophopharus and Tragopan. I may be allowed to notice especially, splendid specimens of Pano muti- cus, Linn.—of the Phasiani Semmeringii, Temm., Stacei, Vigors, and veneratus, Temm., of Gallus Sonneratii, Temm., of Gallus Lafayettii, Less., of the Polyplectron emphanum, Temm., very fine specimens of the Argus giganteus, Temm., and also a specimen of that singular bird, the Apteryx australis, Shaw, of which, at quite a recent period, but one specimen was known in Europe. In the great order Incessores or Perching birds, the Garrulinz, Icterine, Tanagrine, Laniine, Turdine, Caprimulginz, and the Scansoria! subfamilies generally deserve particular notice. Of Paradise birds there are all the known species. Of the Hornbills, (Buceros,) six species only are wanting. Of the various genera of Parrots, there are upwards of two hundred species. In short, so extensive and comprehensive is the Rivoli collection, that it is evident an extraordinary attachment to natural history, a superior knowledge of Ornithology, constant assiduity during a long period, and opportunities of no common order, must alike have contributed to its for- mation. Besides the Rivoli collection, others of great interest have been received, one of the most important of which is that of M. Bourcier, an Ornithologist of the city of Lyons, well known by his papers in the Annales des Sciences Physiques et Naturelles de Lyons, the Revue Zoologique and other journals. The collection consists of about one thousand specimens, and is almost exclusively composed of Conirostres, and Scansores; a large portion of ? 346 [Dec. 1847. which are South American and Mexican species. M. Bourcier’s col- lections contains specimens of nearly all the little known species of New Grenada, and is especially rich in the beautiful Tanagers of that country. The collection made in California by Mr. Wm. Gambel, I am happy to state, has also been added to the collection of this Society. This collection contains numerous and remarkably beautiful specimens of the birds of Western America, many of which were not previously in any collection in the United States, and are of rare occurrence in those of Europe. The specimens of the hitherto unknown species described by this enter- prising young naturalist, in the Proceedings and Journal of this Academy, are especiolly interesting, as well as those of Tyrannule Saya (Bonap.) and nigricans, Sw., Ptilogonys Townsendii, Aud., Pica Nuttallii, Aud., Pipilo fuscus, Sw., Picus Harrisii, Aud., Picus scalaris, Wagler, Lanius elegans, Sw., Hamatopus Bachmannii, Aud., Strepsilas melanocephalus, Vigors, and many others. Mr. Edward Harris has presented to the Society several specimens of un- usual value to the collection, of which may be mentioned aspecimen of Tyrannus verticalis, (Say,) shot near his residence at Moorestown, N. J., being the first instances of the appearance of this species so far west or north. A series of specimens of the genus Parus, including the Parus septentrio- nalis, Harris, has also been presented by this gentleman. A collection made by the writer during a period of about fifteen years is also merged into that of the Academy. It is composed principally of birds from Western Africa, collected under some advantages, and of the rarer birds of North America. Of the African species, 1 may be allowed to mention a series of specimens of Musophaga violacea, Isert, including males, females and young birds ;—specimens of Taracus giganteus, Vieill.— Buceros elatus, Temm.—Cuculus Klaasii, Le Vaill.—Pyrenestes ostrina, Vieill. and others. Of the American species, those of most interest are a series of specimens of Archibuteo sanctijohannis, (Gm.) including the perfectly adult bird, and the rare stage of plumage figured by Wilson as a variety ; also several spe- cimens including the perfect adult of Buteo Pennsylvanicus, (Wilson,) or broad winged Hawk; a specimen of Astur atricapillus, Wilson, from New Jersey; a series of nine specimens of Astur Cooperi, (Bonaparte;) also a specimen of Bombycilla garrula, (Linn.) shot near this city; several speci- mens of Trichas Philadelphia, Wilson, Sylvicole maritima, ( Wilson,) agillis, (Wilson,) coerulea, (Wilson,) and many others of this genus. There will also be found several specimens of Rallus Jamaicensis, Briss. obtained near this city ; a series of specimens of Anser hyperboreus, (Gm,) also a specimen of Bernicla nigricans, (Lawrence,) a recently discovered American species, of which this is the third specimen. Various collections, including several hundred specimens from the cele- brated Ornithologist M. Temminck of Leyden, and a large number from the Dec. 1847.] 347 British Museum, have been secured for this Society through the exertions of Mr. Edward Wilson, now residing in England. To this gentleman the collections of the Society are indebted in a de- gree second only to that of his distinguished brother. Independently of his immediate agency in obtaining the Rivoli collection and that of M. Bourcier, the collections made by him, personally, in various cities of Europe, evince at once his love of Natural History, his excellent judgment and his just appreciation of the wants of the natural sciences in this his native country. Mr. Wilson’s ornithological collections, in the aggregate, amount to several thousand specimens, a portion of which, only, has been received ;— but that portion contains some of our most valuable acquisitions. I will mention a fine specimen of Haliztus pelagicus, (Pall.) from Behring’s Straits, a species which is probably the largest of known Falconide, and is especially interesting to American Ornithologists from the fact of its being an inhabitant of the northern regions of this continent; also a beautiful specimen of the Meleagris ocellata, Temm., the second species of Turkey discovered a few years since in Yucatan. For almost the whole of the large collection of Humming Birds the Society is indebted to the same gentleman. , One other collection, which is to be delivered to this Society early in the coming year, remains to be noticed, and that is Mr. John Gould’s collection of the birds of Australia. When | inform the Society that this collection contains specimens of all the known Australian birds, except five species, and of the nests and eggs of a large number, its peculiar value will be immediately understood. I may be excused for remarking, however, that Mr. Gould’s collection acquires additionul interest from the consideration that it cuntains the original speci- mens from which many of the numerous species described by him were first characterized, and that the specimens comprised in his collection are those from which the drawings were made for his latest and splendid work, ‘“‘ The Birds of Australia.” The number of specimens now contained in the collection and those which will be received in the course of the ensuing year, according to ar- rangements now completed, may be estimated as follows: Duke of Rivoli’s collection, : 5 4 . 12,500 specimens M. Bourcier’s collection, . : é 5 : 1,000 “ Mr. Edward Wilson’s collections : = 4,000 a Mr. Gambel’s and Mr. Cassin’s collections . ; 1,000 ke Mr. Gould’s coilection, : ; A - < 2,000 UL Former collections of the Academy . : : 2,500 “b 23,000 As premised at the commencement of this report, this magnificent result is the work of an individual member of this Society, himself a naturalist of excellent and varied acquirements, who in the formation of this and other ? 348 [ Dec. 1847. collections, and a library also, in natural history, may be said to have real- ized the happiest hopes of the American student and the American natural- ist, and to have marked an era which must ever be acknowledged as the most important in the history of the Zoological sciences in this country. The arrangement of this immense collection, excluding duplicates, will, in all probability be completed during the coming year, and it is also pro- bable that at the next annual meeting of the Academy, a report can be made of the exact number of species and specimens exhibited. It is to be understood, however, that other extensive additions are con- templated, which if received and incorporated into the present collection, may, of course, naturallly affect the issue to which I allude. All of which is respectfully submitted by JouN CASSIN, December 28th, 1847. Curator. A note was read from Prof. Haldeman, dated Columbia. Penn., Dec. 27, 1847, requesting that the following correction of his published papers may be noticed in the present No. of the Proceedings. The genus HeTeropRoMiA, Hald., Proceedings Academy, vol. 3, p. 127, seems to be identical with PsAmMMa@cnus, Boudier, although the prothorax is not wider than long, as described by Latreille. The proposed genus CuoreA, Hald., Proceedings Academy, vol. 3, p. 150, is founded upon the female of CeropHyruM, unless the structure of the posterior femora should be found to differ. Neither of these rare genera has been yet announced as Ameri- can, and but one species of each is found in Hurope. M. Lucas has described a species of Psammeechus from Algeria, which be names Boudiert. The Academy then proceeded to an election for Officers for 1848. The following result was announced by the Tellers: PRESIDENT. William Hembel. VICE-PRESIDENTS. J. Price Wetherill, Samuel George Morton. CORRESPONDING SECRETARY. Walter R. Johnson. RECORDING SECRETARY. John Lambert. Dec., 1847.] 349 LIBRARIAN, Wm. S. Zantzinger. TREASURER. George W. Carpenter. CURATORS, Joseph S. Leidy, William S. Vaux, Samuel Ashmead, John Cassin. AUDITORS, Robert Pearsall, William S. Vaux, Robert Bridges. PUBLICATION COMMITTEE. William S. Vaux, Walter R. Johnson, Robert E. Griffith, Samuel Ashmead, William Gambel. ELECTION OF MEMBERS AND CORRESPONDENTS. Joseph Pancoast, M. D., of Philadelphia, was elected a Member, and the following were elected Correspondents of the Academy : William Lonsdale, Esq., F. G. S., of London. Sir J. F. W. Herschel, do. Michael Faraday, Esq., F. R. S., do. Prideaux John Selby, Esq., Northumberland, Engiand. Prof. Nillson, of Lund, Sweden. Pecan av 7 a : : - eaebti or bes | _ we Nim} 34 2 Ka fd “ en rest ts + VOIAT 2, sneak . au if ate. alien ected, csrretncel 7 Tee eet uit eI. tad fae fat Ae) av yz aah sl ct oye 7 +t y i ia 4 ar ” ‘ r j : j Vi Siar 4 “ Tes __ . Ps : RNa Wed. Bi - t+ yee ae 4 se * ‘ ; | « Yeni G hla HO * . © > vb is a) ’ ~~ ' ~ ~ '« ra be ¢ é iS ' j ¢., i i ret ‘ | Gel im, , vil, zt a uf “e ehh 5 ‘ —_ ait ; a alee * es Fae = - ~ —~ Proc. Acad N.S. Philada. Vol III. Plate 3. Bowen & Co. Lith Philada Coluber venustus. NDING oewt. JAN Gv ivr" QH Academy of natural Science 5s of Philadelphia A2 Proceedings | Biological | & Medical PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE CARDS OR SLIPS FROM THIS POCKET re AONE ee UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO LIBRARY Pb ule SP el Mr A i on i 1 7 a i Y i : y : ‘ ey ; a d } te bY Ba Ne ae : ie reat Ay .r] , ny