H713 1908 Ent. THE YOUNG BEETLE-COLLECTOR'S HANDBOOK OPINIONS OF THE PRESS. *' For a very moderate price this handbook furnishes the beginner with a series of hints how to catch and kill beetles for his collection, and how to identify them when captured and killed. We can recommend the commencing naturalist to consider the beetle and its ways, and to buy this handbook by reason of its clearness of description." Daily Chronicle. "The portion of the book modestly termed the 'Introduction' is a valuable and thoroughly practical series of articles upon the structure of beetles, their development, habits of beetles, and how to catch them and kill them, arrangement of the collection, etc. It is written so clearly that the beginner could have no difficulty in identifying and classifying his finds. Over 500 of the species described are beautifully figured and coloured, the illustrations greatly enhancing the value of a handbook that can be heartily recommended to all naturalists." — Liverpool Post. * ' We have seen no better book for the young beetle-collector than this. The plates are beautifully zoXowxt^.^'— Journal of Microscopy. *'A very attractive and useful feature of the work is represented by twenty coloured plates, comprising over five hundred really good pre- sentments of different kinds of beetles." — Knowledge. " The plates are worth the cost of the ^oxV.''— Nature. " Will be very useful to schoolboys and residents in the country who are inclined to begin to collect beetles." — Entomologist. •'This little volume is well bound and well printed, of a convenient size, and may be safely recommended to the notice of those young col- lectors who are in want of a book that is not burdened with a great many hints on collecting." — Nature Notes. LONDON: SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & CO., LIM. This Book is now published by GEORGE ALLEN & UNWIN,, t.TD. Ruskin House, 40, MUSEUM STREET, LONDON, W.C. I. c^ THE YOUNG Beetle -COLLECTOR'S Handbook BY DR. E^HOFMANN CURATOR OF THE ROYAL NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AT STUTTGART TXIlltb an SntroDuction BY W. EGMONT KIRBY, M.D, joint author of "british and european butterflies and moths "beetles, butterflies, moths, and other insects," etc. ILLUSTRATED BY TWENTY COLOURED PLATES, COMPRISING OVER 500 FIGURES LONDON SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & Co., Lim. 1908 First Edition .... May, 1897. Second Edition .... ^l/^y, 1902. Third Edition .... Ocf., 190S. CONTENTS Structure • • • • • PAGE . 1 Development . . . . ... 4 Habits op Beetles, etc. . . . ... 7 How to Kill Beetles . , . ... 8 How to Arrange the Collection • , . , 10 PENTAMERA CiciNDELiD^ (Tiger Beetles) . . . . r 13 Carabid^ (Carnivorous Ground Beetles) . 14 DYTISCID.E (Carnivorous Water Beetles) . 28 Gyrinid^ (Whirligig Beetles) . 34 Hydrophilid^ . 34 STAPHYLINIDiE (RoVE BeETLES) . 38 SlLPHID^ . 50 SCAPHIDIIDiE . 54 HlSTERID^ . 55 PHALACRIDiE . 56 NlTIDULID^ . 57 Trogositid^ . . 58 COLYDIID^ . 59 CUCUJID^ . 60 Cryptophagid^ . 61 Lathridiid^ . . 61 Mycetophagid^ 62 Dermestid^e (Bacon Beetles) . 63 Byrrhid^ 65 PARNIDiE . 67 Heterocerid^ 68 LuCANIDiE (Si ^AG Beetles) , 69 viii CONTENTS. PENTAMERA— continued. ScARAB^iDiE, or Lamellicornes (Chafers) , . . 70 CoFROPHiNi (Dung Beetles) . 71 Melolonthini (Cockchafers) . 78 Eutelini . 83 Dynastini . 84 Cetoxini (Rose Beetles) . 85 BUPRESTID^ . 89 EUCNEMID^ . 93 ELATERIDiE (ClICK BeETLES) 94 Dascillid.e . . 102 Malacodermid^ . 103 Clerid^ . 108 Lymexylonid^ . 110 Ptixid^ . Ill HETEROMERA Tenebrionid^e , . . . . , 114 PYTHIDiE . 117 Melandryid^ 117 Lagriid^ 118 Pyrochroid^ ■ 118 MORDELLIDiE . 1 * 119 Rhipidophorid^ ■ 119 Cantharid.^ . 1 120 CEdemerid^ . 1 * . 121 TETRAMERA CURCULIONIDiE (WeEVILS) . -. ... 122 ScOLYTIDiE (BoSTRYCHID^) 137 ANTHRIBIDiE . 138 CerambycidvE (Loxgicornia) 139 Bruchid^ 153 CHRYS0MELID.E 153 EROTYLIDiE 165 TRIMERA CocciNELLiD^ (Lady Birds) . , . . . 166 Pselaphidj^ . k 4 V • 169 INTRODUCTION STEUCTURE, &o. The Coleoptera, or Beetles, form the largest of all the Orders of Insects, numbering, as is estimated, about 130,000 species, whilst the total number of insects known is about 300,000. In this country we have over 3,000 species, which is about one-fourth of the British insect fauna. Beetles are distinguished from other insects by having a pair of hard or leathery wing-cases, or elytra, which cover the true wings, which are membranous. The elytra generally meet in a straight line down the back, known as the suture. The body of a beetle is divided into head, thorax, and abdomen. The head is free from the thorax, and only slightly narrowed behind. It is broader laterally than vertically, and is often prolonged into a proboscis, or trunk (as in the AVeevils). The top of the head between the eyes, above, is called the vertex, and 2 INTEODUCTION. that behind the eyes, the occiput ; whilst the part before the vertex is called the front, or clypeus. The head is furnished with eyes, antennse, or feelers, and mouth oro^ans. The eyes are composed of a number of small facets, regularly arranged in a network, and each of these facets may be regarded as a separate eye. The eyes are placed on the sides of the head, and are generally large and prominent. In some beetles they are nearly divided into two by a process of the side of the head, whilst in some (chiefly water beetles) they are completely divided, so that the beetled have apparently four eyes. In addition to the true eyes, some beetles have two small simple eyes, or ocelli, on the top of the head. The antennae are situated near the eyes, and have usually eleven joints. Antennae which taper gradually to the end are called setiform (bristle-like) ; those which are uniform in thickness throughout are filiform (thread-like) ; if composed of a n amber of rounded joints, moniliform (bead -like) ; if with triangular elevations, dentated (toothed) ; and if with long processes on the joints, pectinated ; if the joints become stouter towards the extremity, clubbed ; and if the thickening is abrupt, capitate. In addition, the antennae may be flattened, and, in some species, they end in a number of long, flat processes, and are fan-like (as in the cockchafers). Thus the antennae INTRODUCTION. 3 vary much in form and structure, and are consequently of use in classifying the insects. The mouth org-ans are situated beneath the head, and are used to seize, and divide, the food. They consist of the labrum, or upper lip ; the labium, or lower lip ; mandibles, or upper jaws, which are hard and sharp, and often very large (as in the Stag Beetle) ; and maxillae, or lower jaws. Two jointed organs, called the labial palpi, are attached to the labium, and two similar organs, the maxillary palpi, belong to the maxillae. The thorax is the part lying between the head and abdomen. It carries the legs and wings, and is divided into three principal portions — the pro-, meso-, and meta-thorax. The upper portion of the thorax is divided into pro-, meso-, and meta-notum, and the under surface is divided into pro-, meso-, and meta-sternum. The pronotum is the broad part seen above in front of the elytra ; and behind it, and inserted between the base of the elytra, is a small triangular plate, belonging to the meso-notum, called the scutellum. Each segment of the sternum bears a pair of legs. Each of the legs consist of five parts — the coxa, or hinge-plate ; the trochanter (a small joint between the coxa and femur) ; the femur, or thigh ; the tibia, or shank ; and the tarsus, or foot, which has normally iive joints, the last bearing a pair of claws. B 4 INTRODUCTION. The elytra, or wing-cases, are attached to the meso- notum, and, in most beetles, overlap the whole of the abdomen. They may be pitted or punctured, ridged or carinated, and are frequently spotted or striped, and sometimes hairy. Under the elytra are the true wings (springing from the meta-notum), which are folded when not in use. The wings alone are used in flight, the elytra being raised to allow them to have full play. In some beetles the true wings are quite wanting, whilst a few are completely apterous, having neither elytra nor wings. The abdomen consists generally of nine rings, or segments, overlapping one another in a telescopic manner, so as to allow of free movement. It is usually broad at the base, and somewhat flattened. On the sides is a row of spiracles, or breathing-holes^ situated between the seo-ments of the thorax and abdomen. DEVELOPMENT. The males and females of beetles are often very unlike. The females lay eggs, usually selecting a place where the young larvae will at once find food for their sustenance ; thus some beetles form little pellets of dung to contain the eggs, and serve as food for the larvee ; and others roll up leaves, which protect INTRODUCTION. 5 tlic eggs, and afterwards the young. From the eggs emerge the larvae, or grubs, which are elongated creatures, with a distinct, though sometimes small, horny head, bearing two very short antennae, com- posed only of a few joints. They are either destitute of eyes, or have only minute ocelli. The mouth organs of larvae resemble those of the beetles, and the body (including the head) is composed of thirteen segments. As in the perfect insect, the number of spiracles is nine. The larvae do not possess wings, and many of them are legless ; most of them are, however, provided w4th three pairs of legs — a pair on the second, third, and fourth segments respectively — which are the thoracic ses^ments. The lesjs of the larvae are usually much smaller, and simpler, than those of the perfect insects, and some have a single proleg at the caudal extremity. On the dorsum there are often small plates, or tubercles. The body is soft and maggot-like in some, as in the Cicrculionidce, or Weevils ; in others, there are flat, chitinous plates ; whilst others again are wholly chitinous, like the perfect insects. The larvae of the Melolonthini, or Cockchafers, are short, curved creatures, of a yellowish-white colour. The time required for the full development of larvae is very variable, but all moult several times during their growth. Whilst the Chrysonielidce pass through their metamorphoses in a few weeks, some beetles. C INTRODUCTION. such as various Longicornia and Melolonthim, require three or more years. When the larvae have attained full growth they moult once more, and become pupae. The pupa generally casts off the larval skin, but in many species remains lying in it. The pupa may be enclosed in a cocoon, or suspended by the caudal extremity, as in the Chrysomelidce and CoccinelUdoB ; or it may rest on the ground, or under the bark of trees ; whilst others are subterranean. The pupae are com- paratively soft, and have partially-developed elytra, wings, and legs ; but these are all enclosed in separate sheaths, and they are incapable of movement, beyond being able slightly to move the abdomen : they do not take food. After some time they change colour, throw ofl* a membranous skin, and appear as beetles. The beetle is at first soft like the pupa, and is usually nearly colourless ; but it hardens after a short time, and the elytra and wings assume their proper proportions and permanent positions. If the larva has been insufficiently nourished, the beetle will be small, and if the developing pupa has been disturbed or kept too dry, a crippled condition is the result. INTr.ODUCTION. THE HABITS OF BEETLES, AND HOVr TO CATCH THEM. The best months for collecting are May and June. The Carabidce^ or Ground Beetles, are common in gardens, and may often be seen running on roads ; they may also frequently be met with under stones, &c. The Silphidce, or Carrion Beetles, live on any kind of refuse, and the ScarahceidoB (Dung Beetles) fly in the evening, and settle on dung. Many species may be obtained by sweeping the grass with a net, and also by beating or shaking trees and shrubs whilst an umbrella is held underneath. The Longicornia rest on the bark of trees, and the Ciirculionidce (Weevils) and Scolytidce may be found on freshly-felled trees and wood piles ; whilst the bark and rotten wood of diseased trees will well repay a close scrutiny. A large number of beetles will be found upon flowers, particularly on the UmhellifercR, whilst others are only to be found upon the food- plant of the larva. A great many species fly by day, e.g. the BiiprestidcE, and may be caught w^ith the net. Many of the smaller beetles live under dead leaves or among moss at the foot of trees. This may be shaken over a sieve, and what passes through taken home and carefully examined on a large sheet of white 8 INTRODUCTION. paper. The banks of streams, ponds, and lakes arc good localities, and many species are to be found in such places, especially under stones. The Water Beetles {Di/tiscidce, &c.) live in ditches and ponds, and must be caught with a water-net. The largest captures may be expected when the water is high, as the collector will then be able to take home portions of plants from the brink and examine them at his leisure. HOW TO KILL BEETLES. There are various ways in w^hich beetles may be killed. The simplest method of dealing with dark beetles, or those which are smooth and shining, is to drop them into a bottle of weak spirits of wine and water ; but this is inadmissible for hairy species and for those which have a red colour. For these the best contrivance is the follovvino; : a wide-mouthed bottle is taken, and in it is inserted a bung, perforated to receive a (Aass tube closed with a cork. In the bottle are placed small pieces of blotting-paper moistened with a few drops of sulphuric ether. The reason for this arrangement is to prevent damaging the w^ing-cases by friction, and the better to benumb and kill the beetles. It is not good to use too much ether, lest the specimens be moistened and spoilt. Bottles are sometimes charged with cyanide of potassium ; whilst some collectors use INTRODUCTIOX. 9 the vouno^ shoots and leaves of the laurel, o:athere(l when quite dry and chopped fine. The best way to kill beetles brought home alive, unless they are soft, finely pubescent, or of delicate colouring, is to plunge them into boiling water ; but this must be done rapidly, or the beetle will be softened and easily come to pieces. Beetles killed with cyanide of potassium must not be left in the bottle lono^ and should soon be taken out and set ; and those treated with boiling water should also be set immediately ; but those killed with ether may generally be left till next day, as this substance tends to keep them longer relaxed ; whilst the specimens in spirit will often keep in the bottle for weeks or months. After it has been killed the beetle should be placed on blotting-paper, and a pin stuck through the right wing-case. It is then transferred to a thick piece of cork or turf covered with paper, and the legs and antennae are spread out with pins and propped in the position seen on the plates. The beetles will be dry in a day or two (soonest in hot weather), and can then be transferred to the collection. 10 INTRODUCTION. HOW TO ARRANGE THE COLLECTION, &c. In arranging the collection it is best to commence by naming the species which we know, and then to put aside those belonging to easily distinguished groups, such as the Clcindelidce, Carahidce, Melolonthini, Curculionidce, and Longicornia. If we do not know what family to refer a beetle to, we must count the number of joints of the tarsi, and so find out which section each beetle belongs to. Those which have five joints to all the tarsi belong to the Pentamera, which includes the Cicindelidce, Carahidce, Dytiscidce, Staphylinidw, Melolonthini, and many smaller families, in some of which the number of joints is not constant, as is the case exceptionally in all families. Next pick out those which have five tarsal joints on the first and second pairs of legs, but only four on the posterior pair. These are the Heteromera, and include the Tenehrionidce, Melan- dryidcB, LagrUdce, Alordellidce, Cayitharidce, &c. Then come those which have only four joints to all the tarsi — the Tetramera, to which belong the Curculionidce^ Longicornia, and Chrijsomelidce, Whilst the fourth section, the Trimera, in which there are only apparently three joints to all the tarsi, includes the CoccinellidcB and Paelajyhidce, &c. When the specimens have been sorted into these INTRODUCTION. 11 four sections, it will be further necessary to identify the species by means of plates and descriptions. It is best to arrange the species in the cabinet, or store boxes, in columns, and it is usual to keep three specimens of those of which several can be obtained. The name of the family and genus should be written on a small label at the head of the column, and the name of the species beneath. The locality where each specimen was taken is best written on a small slip of paper, and pinned under the insect to which it belongs, or it may be placed below or beside it on a separate pin. The drawers of an insect cabinet are made of wood, and should all be of the same size, so as to be inter- changeable. There is a glass lid, and the bottom is lined with cork or turf, over which thin white paper is pasted. To keep out mites a lump of camphor should be placed in the corner of the box or drawer, or a few grains of naphthaline may be substituted. Of course the collection will increase most quickly at first, because everything will be new ; but as it grows it will become more and more complete, as the rarer species are added to it ; and in due course the energetic collector may expect to amass a very characteristic set of the coleopterous fauna of the nciohbourhood in which he is livino^. XOTE. Every species wliich is found in the British Isles is indicated hy a "^t BEETLES Section L PENTAMERA. (Beetles with five joints to the tarsi of all the legs.) Family I. CICINDELIDiE (Tiger Beetles). Elongated beetles of a fine metallic colour beneath. Head broad with prominent eyes, and long, slender antennse and legs. They run quickly, and fly in jerks for short distances. They feed on other insects, and are therefore useful. They are found in sandy places, where the larvae lie in wait for their prey in holes in the ground. Genus Cicindela, Linn. * C. cam/pestris, Linn., the Green Tiger Beetle (Plate L, Fig. 1). Everywhere common on sandy paths and grassy places. In the South of Europe numerous local varieties occur. * C. hyhrida, Linn., the Hybrid Tiger Beetle (Plate L, Fig. 2). This species is also common in sandy places, and varies locally. C. sylvicola, Dej., the Swiss Wood Tiger Beetle (Plate L, Fig. 3). Similar to the last species, but with the two shoulder spots always interrupted. It is found in Switzerland and Southern Germany, where it frequents sandy slopes in woods. * C. SLjlvatica, Linn., the Wood Tiger Beetle (Plate L, Fig. 4). 13 14 BEETLES. Coppery black above, and easily distinguishable from the last species. It is found in pine woods, running about on the sandy paths. It is the largest species found in Britain, and occurs, among other places, at Bournemouth. * G. germanica, Linn., the Small Green Tiger Beetle (Plate I., Fig. 5). This is the smallest species found with us. It is found in fields and grassy places, and unlike the other species, which take to the wing when disturbed, this beetle seeks to escape by running and hiding among tufts of grass. Family II. CARABID-ffi (Carnivorous Ground Beetles). This is a large family, the members of which have long legs, run quickly, and are carnivorous in habits. Black is the most common colour among them. They hide under stones, moss, and bark, and are very useful, as they keep down the numbers of insects and their larvae in woods, gardens, and fields. The larvse of the ground beetles are just as useful as the beetles themselves ; they live in similar places, and also in dung-heaps. Genus Omophkon, Latr. Body rounded, head retracted under the prothorax. In the males the first two tarsal joints of the front pair of legs are expanded. 0. limhatum, Fabr. (Plate I., Fig. 6). This species lives under stones on the sandy banks of streams. It is common on the Continent, but is not found with us. It may be caught at night with the lantern. Genus Bletiiisa, Bon. Thorax flat, nearly square, with a distinct border on the sides, and a deep groove near the hinder angles. Eyes only slightly prominent. The only species found in Britain is : 1. BEETLES. 15 * B. multipundata, Fabr. (Plate I., Fig. 7). This is local, and lives in damp meadows and on the slimy margins of ponds. It is also often found in large numbers in rotting herbage. Genus Elaphrus, Fabr. Small species with large, spherical, and very prominent eyes, and with conspicuous eye-spots on the dull wing-cases. They are found in damp places, the banks of streams, &c. * U. cupreu% Duft. (Plate L, Fig. 8). This beetle has yellowish-brown tibiie. It is common on the borders of ponds in the summer, and spends the winter under moss. * E. uliginosus, Fabr. (Plate I., Fig. 9). Thorax broader than that of the last species, and indeed broader than the head. Tibiae violet. Its habits are the same as those of the other species mentioned. Genus Notiophilus, Dum. Smooth, shining little beetles, with very large eyes. The thorax is twice as broad as it is long, and the abdomen is elon crated. * N. aquaticus, Linn. (Plate L, Fig. 10). This is a fairly common British species, being frequently met with from spring to autumn in damp places. There are four other species found in Britain, some of which prefer drier localities, and may be found running over paths or tiower-beds. Genus Cychrus, Fabr. These beetles have the body very convex ; the elytra are twice as broad as the thorax, which is widest in the middle, and has a raised border. They live under stones and among damp grass. * G. rosiratus, Linn. (Plate L, Fig. 11). This insect is found throughout Europe, including the British Isles, under stones, in woods, and in damp grass in the spring. 16 BEETLES. Genus Procrustes, Bon. La brum with two concavities. Mentum with a broad, obtuse tooth in the middle. Legs long, with the first three joints of the front tarsi expanded in the males. Found in woods. P. coriaceus, Linn. (Plate L, Pig. 12). This is a large ground beetle, which is found in many places on the Continent, under stones and leaves in woods, and less frequently in gardens, but is not P)ritish. Genus Carabus, Linn. (True Ground Beetles). Most of the species are large and showy, and are remarkable for their bright metallic colours and the very various sculpturing of the elytra. The third joint of the antenna is cylindrical and longer than the rest. Abdomen oval. Pront tarsi of the males with three or four expanded joints. They are most common in hilly districts. * C. monilis, Pabr. (Plate I., Pig. 13). Elytra green, blue or coppery. It is common with us, under stones and clods. C. ulrichii, Germ. (Plate L, Pig. 14). Elytra very convex, larger than in the two next species. It is found in South Central Europe, where it passes the winter in tree- trunks and under moss. * 0. cancdlatus, Illig. (Plate I., Pig. 15). Antennae with the basal joint red. Wing-cases reddish or bronze-coloured, with three longitudinal ridges and long granulations. It is found in May, but is doubtfully British. * C. gramdaius, Linn. (Plate IL, Pig. 1). This species is similar to the last, but usually smaller and with black antennae. It is common, and is found in swampy places. C. auratus, Linn., the Gold Beetle (Plate IL, Pig. 2). The spaces between the green longitudinal ridges of the elytra i BEETLES. 17 are almost smooth. This handsome species is common in many places on the Continent, notably in France, Western Germany,, and Switzerland, but when found in Britain has probably been introduced. C. auronitens, Fabr. (Plate IL, Fig. 3). The grooves between the black longitudinal ridges of this species are finely corru- gated, and the first joint of the antennae is red. The thorax generally has a golden lustre. It is not found with us, but is- common in hilly districts in many parts of the Continent, w^here it may frequently be taken in rotten stems of dead trees. * C, nitens, Linn. (Plate IL, Fig. 4). This pretty species is the smallest of the Carahidce found with us. It is of a brilliant green, with the edges shining coppery-red, and three black longitudinal ridges on each of the elytra. It is not very common, but may be found on moors and mosses. * C. violaceus, Linn. (Plate IL, Fig. 5). The wing-cases of this beetle are dull blue-black, edged with bright blue or violet. It is common under moss or stones in woods. * C. glabratus, Payk. (Plate IL, Fig. 6). The wing-cases- are strongly convex, with dull bluish borders. It is found in fields near woods. * G. arvensis, Fabr. (Plate IL, Fig. 7). Wing-cases coppery- red, greenish, violet, or almost black, with raised granules. It frequents woods and sandy fields. * C. nemoralis, Mlill. (Plate IL, Fig. 8). Pronotum purplish, elytra coppery, with three rows of metallic punctures. It is common everywhere, near woods, under moss and stones, &c. This species, monilis, and violaceus are about the commonest species of the genus found in Britain, and may often be found dead on the roads, a little out of London, having been trodden upon during their nocturnal rambles. 18 BEETLES. C. conrcxua, Fabr. (Piute II., Fig. 9). Tliis species is almost black, but may be distinguished from glabratus by its smaller size. It is found in wooded slopes on the Continent, but is local, and it does not appear to V>e found with us. C. hortensis, Linn. (Plate II., Fig. 10). This species has three rows of shining golden punctures on the wing-cases. It occurs in some parts of the Ojntinent. C. sylvestris, Fabr. (Plate II., Fig. 11). This species is of the same size and colour as arcensis, 1»ut with rows of s])0ts instead of granules on the elytra. It is found in hilly places on the Continent. C. irregularis, Yahr. (Plate II., Fig. 12). AVing-cases smooth, except for three rows of deep punctures. It is found at a high elevation, in the rotten stumps of trees, on the Continent. * C. intricattis, Linn. (Plate IL, Fig. K>). This is an elongated beetle with bluish-black corrugat<.'d elytra. This species, unlike those immediately preceding, is a native of Britain. C. nodulosus, Creutz. (Plate HI., Fig. 1). This easily distinguished species is found in sume parts of Germany, Eastern France, and South Pussia. It frequents wet, swampy places in woods and damp moors, and will even enter shallow water. Genus Calosoma, Weber. This genus is distinguished by the size and by the square or oblong form of the elytra. The labrum is emarginate, and the mandibles are transversely striated on the upper surface. They live in woods, and prey upon other insects. G. sycoplmnta, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 2). This is the largest of the Carahida: occurring in the British Isles. Specimens are usually found on the coast, and are believed by some authors to have flown across from France. Its favourite 3. ' 28. ^ BEETLES. 19 haunts are pine and oak woods. It will climb up trees in search of larva3 and pupae, which it feeds upon, and is common on the Continent in the nests of the processionary caterpillars. * C. inc[iiisitoi\ Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 3). This species is dark coppery-brown — occasionally blackish or bluish. It is much commoner with us than the last species, and may be found on fruit trees and in oak woods. Genus Leistus, Froehl. Labium transverse, rounded in front; maxillai toothed on the outer border with long movable bristles. The first joint of the antennae is by far the largest. They are of moderate size, and are found in mountainous districts under stones. * L. fcrrugineus, Linn. (Plate III., Pig. 4). Elytra and legs brown. It is found in damp places. * L. spinibarbis, Pabr. (Plate III., Pig. 5). Elytra blue- black and very shiny. The legs and antennae are pale reddish- brown. It is found under stones and bark. Genus Nebria, Latr. Labrum truncated at the end. Mandibles with a small double tooth on the inner edge. The third joint of the antennae is as long as, or longer than the first. These beetles are found in hilly districts, on the banks of brooks and streams, and on the edges of lakes. * N. brevicollis, Pabr. (Plate HE., Pig. 6). Elytra black, punctate-striate ; antennae, tibiae, and tarsi brown. It should be looked for under stones. ■^^iV. livida, Linn. This species is distinguished by its larger size and brownish-yellow colour. It is rather local. Genus Clivina, Latr. These are small elongated beetles, with two teeth on the c 20 BEETLES. front tibiai and one on the middle pair. The first two joints of the antennae are flattened. * C. fossor, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 7). Antennoe and legs red. Pronotum almost quadrangular. It frequents garden refuse, and is also found under stones in damp, sandy places. Genus Bkaciiinus, Weber. Body elongated, oval, with a long red pronotum. The species of this genus live gregariously under stones, and if disturbed eject a fluid from the abdomen which volatilizes, on contact with the air, with a slight report. * B. crepitans, Linn., the Bombardier Beetle (Plate III., Fig. 8). The third and fourth joints of the antennae are black, and the elytra blue-black and finely punctate-striate. It is common on the south coast of England, especially on the chalk, and also near the mouth of the Thames. * B. cxplodenSy Duft. This has also the third and fourth joints of the antennjE black, but is smaller and more finely punctured. It is found in similar localities to the last species. Genus Lebia, Latr. Elongated oval beetles with a heart-shaped thorax. They are small and generally brightly coloured, and are to be sought for under stones, on bushes, and in cracks in the ground. The four following species are all found in Britain : * L. chlorocephala, Hoff. (Plate III., Fig 9). Wing-cases with the interspaces between the striie distinctly punctured. It is not uncommon in this country, and may be sought for under stones. * L. cyanocephala, Linn. This is distinguished by the black tips of the femora. The habits of this species are similar to those of the last. It is very local. BEETLES. 21 * Z. crux minor, Linn. Smaller than the last species, with orange-coloured elytra, marked with a black cross. It is scarce and local. * L. hcemoirJioidcdis, Fabr. This is the smallest species. It has black wing-cases with red tips. It lives on bushes, and is extremely rare. Genus Cymindis, Latr. This genus resembles Brachinus, but has a broader thorax, and is flatter. The species are found under stones on the borders of woods. C. humeralis, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 10). Elytra strongly striated with yellow shoulder spots. This beetle hibernates under stones, but is not gregarious. It is common in many parts of Europe. Genus Lopjcera, Latr. These are more compressed than the species of Cymindis. The first joint of the antennae is long, and has long stiff hairs upon it, as is the case also with the six following joints. These beetles are found under damp leaves and near ponds. * L. pilicornis, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 11). This is the only species found in Britain. It is greenish-bronze, with the elytra punctate-striate. It frequents damp places. Genus Panag.^us, Latr. Pronotum round; dytra broader than in the last genus. They are found in sandy places, under moss, and hibernate. * F. crux major, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 12). This species varies, and the transverse black band is sometimes found broken up into three round spots (var., trimaculatus, Dej.). It is found under stones and moss, but is local. * F. quadrijoustidatus, Sturm, resembles the last species, but 22 • BEETLES. the two posterior reddish spots are bordered with black all round. Genus Chl.^.nius, Bon. Moderate-sized beetles with a more or less broad pronotum and filiform antennae, the third joint of which is longer than the fourth. They live under moss and stones, near water. * C. schranki, Duft. (Plate III., Fig. 13). Thorax green, with a golden or coppery lustre ; legs rusty-red. It frequents damp places in meadows, and the banks of streams, but is very rare in Britain. * C. nigricornis, Fabr., is similar, but has the antennce black, with the exception of the first joint, which is rusty-red. * 6*. vestitus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 14), has the edges of the elytra, as well as the antennae and legs, yellow. It is common in damp places in the neighbourhood of London. Genus PoiCiLUS, Bon. The first joint of the antennae is laterally compressed so as to form a sharp ridge above. These beetles must be sought for under stones. * F. cupreus, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 15). Wing-cases metallic- green, coppery-red, blue, greenish, or blue-black. The first joint of the antennae is reddish-brown. It is common and widely distributed. * P. lepidus, Fabr., is similar, but wingless. It has the antennae completely black. It is very local. * P. dimidiatm, Oliv. Elytra punctate-striate. Base of antennae reddish-brown. It is rare. Genus Omaseus, Ziegl. Black beetles of moderate size, with the first joint of the antenna^ rounded at the end. Some of the species are BEETLES. 23 apterous. Elytra elongated, and only slightly convex. They may be found running on paths, or under stones. * 0. vulgaris, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 16). The thorax is obtuse, narrower behind than in front, with a corrugated groove and two deep longitudinal depressions. It is a common species. * 0. nigrita, Fabr. Much smaller than the last, and with the elytra grooved with three deep punctures. Genus Sphodrus, Clairv. Body elongated, oval. Antennae half the length of the body, finely pubescent from the fourth joint onwards. They frequent damp places in woods, under stones, &c., but are also sometimes met with in cellars and outhouses. * S. leucophthalmus, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 17). Elytra finely punctate-striate. It must be looked for in damp places, under stones, and beneath fallen leaves, or in cellars. Genus Steropus, Ziegl. This genus resembles the last, but the pronotum is more rounded behind. It is found on paths and under stones. * S. madidus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 18). Elytra with three deep punctures. It is fairly common beneath stones, &c. * S. cethiops, Illig., is like the last species, but has a deep concavity in the hinder angles of the pronotum. It is found in mountainous districts. Genus Pterostichus, Bon. Black, apterous beetles of moderate size, with the thorax narrower behind than in front. They are also found beneath stones, especially in hilly districts. * P. nige7', Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 19). Wing-cases without punctures in the interspaces. Common under stones. 24 BEETLES. * P. paruTivpiinctatus, Germ. Wing-cases with a metallic lustre, oval, and deeply striated, with three punctures in the third interspace. It is found under stones on hill-sides. P. metallicus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 21). This is distinguished by the coppery lustre of the wing-cases. It is common in mountainous districts on the Continent. Genus Abax, Bon. Eather large, black beetles, with a very broad thorax, and a compressed form. They are found under stones and moss. * A. striola, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 20). Thorax widest in the middle, with two deep longitudinal depressions. It is common in many parts of Britain. Genus Molops, Ziegl. This genus resembles the last, but the wing-cases are some- what convex, and the pronotum is more rounded. Their habits are the same as those of Pterostichiis. M. ierricola, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 22). Thorax heart- shaped ; wing-cases smoothly furrowed. It is common on wooded hills. Genus Zabeus, Clairv. These are easily distinguished by their stout, almost cyclin- drical shape, which separates them from all the allied genera. They live in fields. * Z. gibhus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 23). These humpbacked black beetles are sometimes found trodden upon on field paths. They are said to live on the grain of wheat, and the larvae on the shoots and young corn ; but most ground-beetles feed only on insects, and this is the most notable exception among them. BEETLES. 25 Genus Anisodactylus, Dej. Compact, flattened beetles, with four expanded joints to the front tarsi in the males. They are found under stones. * A. hinotatus, Fabr. Shining black, with deeply-furrowed wing-cases, and an almost quadrangular pronotum. The antennae are rusty-red at the base, and the legs either rusty- red or black. It is common under stones, and flies about in the fields in early spring. Its length is 10-12 mm. Genus Amara, Bon. This genus is very like the last. The terminal joints of the maxillary palpi are oval. There are a number of species which are very difficult to distinguish. They are found under stones and among fallen leaves. * A. communis, IHig. (Plate III., Fig. 25). The first three joints of the antennoe, and the base of the fourth, as well as the tibiiB, are red. The wing-cases are simply striped. It is about 8 mm. in length, and is widely distributed. ^ A. plebeia, Gyll. The front of the pronotum is excavated. The antennae are brownish, with the first three joints and the tibiae orange. It is about 7 mm. in length. It is common. * A.fulva, De Geer. Shining reddish-brown, with two exca- vations on the sides of the pronotum posteriorly. Elytra punctate-striate. It is about the same size as the preceding, and frequents sandy places. * A. ohsoleta, Dej. Oval, bronzy, with the first three joints of the antennae red. Pronotum with only a shallow impression. Length, about 9 mm. It is widely distributed. * A. acuminata, Payk. This is similar to the last, but with the elytra somewhat pointed and finely striated. Length, lU mm. Widely distributed, but local. 26 BEETLES. * A. trivialis, Gyll. The first three joints of the antenniB and the femora are orange-coloured. The wing-cases are finely striated. Length, 7 mm. It is common throughout the kingdom. * A. familiaris, Duft. Long, oval, with the upper surface greenish-bronze. The first three joints of the antenna, and the base of the fourth, as well as the legs, are reddish-brown. Wing-cases faintly punctate-striate. Length, 7-8 mm. Common. * A. vulgaris, Dej. The striie on the elytra are deepest beyond the middle. The antenna are black, with the first joint, and sometimes also the under- surface of the second, red. The legs are entirely black. It has a length of 7-8 mm. Genus Axchomenus, Erichs. (Platynus, Bon.) Flattened beetles, of moderate size, many of them richly coloured, with the labrum truncated and the claws simple. They live under stones, in rotten wood, and beneath fallen leaves. * A. sexpundatus, Linn. (Plate III., Fig. 26). The reddish- golden wing-cases have a row of five or six deep punctures. It is found in damp places on heaths, but is not common. It is about 6 mm. long. * A. prasimcs, Fabr. Much smaller than the last. Wing- cases brown, with a greenish spot behind. * A. alhipes, Fabr, This species is winged and larger than the last, and entirely black except the antennae and legs, which are pale ochre-yellow. It is about 8 mm. long. Abundant in damp places. * A. angudicollu, Fabr. (junceus, Scop.) Black, with pitchy- brown antennie and legs. It is nearly twice as large as the last species. It is common under loose bark, &c. * A. marginatiis, Linn. Upper surface bright green. Wing- BEETLES. 27 cases edged with white. Length, 10 mm. It frequents the banks of streams and ponds. * A. viduus, Panz. Dark bronzy-green above ; legs and feet black. It is rather smaller than the last species. Genus Hakpalus, Latr. Usually dark-coloured beetles of moderate size, with the pronotum as large as the abdomen. They are found under stones and on paths. * H. azureus, Fabr. Blue or green above, and pitchy-brown beneath, with red legs. Local on the chalk. * H. sabulicola, Panz. This is more than twice as large as the last species. The pronotum is thickly punctured, and the legs are reddish-brown. It is found in chalky and sandy places. * H. obscAirits, Fabr. {nee Daws). Is very similar, but rather smaller. This species is very rare. * H. ruficornis, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 28). Pronotum only punctured on the front and hind borders. The antennas have a thick golden-yellow pubescence. It is common in gardens, where it is often dug up with the mould. * H. cc7ieus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 27). Green, blue, coppery- red or blackish, with the antennae and legs red. The thorax has the angles obtuse. It is larger than azureuSy and is very common throughout the kingdom. Genus Callistus, Bon. Pronotum nearly heart - shaped, antennae filiform, not pubescent. The only species is richly coloured, and is found under stones. * C. lunatus, Fabr. (Plate III., Fig. 29). Pronotum red,, elytra yellow, with three black spots on each. It is local^ being found chiefly in chalky districts. 2S BEETLES. Genus Bembidium, Latr. These are delicate little beetles, for the most part with an elongated pronotum and variously coloured wing-cases. They are found under stones, in meadows, and are common in damp sand, under reeds and fallen leaves. * B. quadrirnaculatiim, Panz. Shining black, with the base of the antennas and lea's yellow. Lencjth, 4 mm. * B. articulatum, Panz. Metallic green, with the base of the antennoe and the legs yellow. Wing-cases yellowish-brow^n in front and brown behind, with a yellow spot. It is of the same size as the last species, and is most commonly met with •on the banks of streams and ponds. * B. lamijros, Herbst. Wing-cases shining bronze colour, -striated. The base of the antennae and the les;s are red. The pronotum is short and heart-shaped. Length, 4 mm. * B. decorum^ Panz. The wing-cases are elongated, greenish- blue, with seven strongly-punctured stride. The base of the antennce, as well as the legs, are orange-colour. Length, 5 mm. * B. {Tacliypus) flaviijes, Linn. This species is shining •coppery with green spots. The base of the antennte, the palpi, and legs are entirely yellowish-brown. Length, 5 nnn. * B. higuttatum, Fabr. (Plate III., Pig. 30). The base of the .antennoe, the legs, and a round spot on the wing-cases are •orange-colour, and the tips of the wing-cases are usually also tipped with this colour. Length, about 4 mm. * B. quadriguttatum, Fabr. This species is black, with two pale yellow spots on the wing-cases. The base of the antennae And the legs are reddish-ochreous. The length is about 5 mm. Family III. DYTISCID-ffi (Carnivorous Water Beetles). Antenme with ten or eleven joints, setiform or HLform ; BEETLES. 29 body oval ; pronotum broader than long. The last pair uf legs are flattened and paddle -shaped, set with long bristles. The front tarsi have small pul villi in the males of the larger species, which enable them to keep their footing on smooth surfaces. They are more common in standing than in flowing water. Genus Haliplus, Latr. Small, elongated, oval beetles, measuring about 3-4 mm. in length, with the body stout and strongly convex beneath. The pronotum is produced into a spine behind. They live in stagnant water. * H. flavicollis, Sturm. Pale yellowish -brown, with the elytra darkly punctate-striate. It is found in ditches, &c., but is rather local. * H. ruficollis, De Geer. Shortly oval, yellowish-brown ; pronotum with a deep longitudinal furrow on each side. This species is of common occurrence in stagnant pools, but is also occasionally found in running streams. Genus HvPHYDrtUS, lUig. Body globose ; oval, strongly convex, both above and beneath. The hind tarsi have two claws of unequal size. These beetles abound in stagnant water. * H. ovatus, Linn. (Plate lY., Pig. 1). Ptusty-red, with the wing-cases darker, often blackish. It is larger than the species of Haliplus, and is common in pools and ditches. Genus Hydroporus, Clairv. Body elongated, oval ; hind legs filiform. The genus includes a large number of small species, some of which live in flowing, and others in stagnant, water. 30 BEETLES. * //. incrqualis, Fabr. Eusty-yellow, everywhere closely and thickly punctured. The anterior and posterior borders of the pronotum are black. Length, o mm. It abounds in ponds and ditches. * ff. picipes, Fabr., is 5 mm. long. The upper surface and legs are dark orange, and the pronotum is black behind, whilst the lateral borders of the wing-cases are dark brown. It is common in ditches and puddles in the London district. * IT. planus, Fabr. Black, somewhat flattened, with the front and back of the head reddish-brown. Each elytron has five rows of coarse punctures. Length, 6 mm. It is common in ponds and ditches. * H. palustris, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 2). Wing-cases dark brown ; pronotum bordered with reddish-brown on the sides. Prosternum and legs rusty-red. Length, 4-5 mm. It is common everywhere in standing water. Genus Laccophilus, Leach. These are oval, slightly convex beetles. The scutellum is not visible. The antennae are slender and filiform. They are found in clear standing water, and are very restless, constantly swimming about near the bottom. * L. minutus, Linn., is 4-5 mm. in length. The wing-cases are dark brown, with four large and two smaller spots. It is common everywhere. Genus Colymbetes, Clairv. Scutellum distinct. The prosternum is prolonged into a point behind. Front legs expanded in the males. They are found in lakes and ponds. * G. (CpnaiojJterus) fuscus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. o), is the 4. BEETLES. ?A largest of the genus. The under-surface is black, with brown legs. It is common everywhere. Length, 16 mm. * C. {Rhantus) pulverosus, Stephens, is 12 mm. long, and is flattened; the wing-cases are brownish -yellow sprinkled with black dots. The under-surface is entirely black. * C. {Rhantus) iwtatiLS, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 4), resembles the last species, but has the prosternum yellow. Length, 10 mm. Both are common in the London district, though local else- where. Genus Ilybius, Erichs. This genus is similar to the last, but the two end joints of the labial palpi are nearly equal in length. They are moderate- sized, somewhat convex beetles, and live in wells and in other standing water. * I. fuliginosus, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 5). The pronotum and •elytra are bronzy, with a uniformly broad, yellowish-brown border. * /. fenestratus, Fabr., is only slightly convex, and has the border narrowed behind. Both these species are about 10 mm. in length, and are common in ditches and ponds. Genus Agabus, Leach. Appendage of tlie prosternum pointed ; scutellum distinct ; hind legs with two equal movable claws. They are flattened beetles, mostly brown, and of medium size. They are generally found in running water, and in the winter reside gregariously under moss or at the roots of trees. * A. hipustulatus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 6). This species is oval, and has two dots on the front of the head. It is common everywhere. Length, 10 mm. * A. ckalconotus, Panz., is smaller than the last species, and 32 BEETLES. of a blackish-brown colour. The raised borders of the wino"- cases and the legs are reddish-brown. It also is common. * A. maculatus, Linn., is 8 mm. in length. It is oval, with the elytra yellow, spotted with brown, and rusty-red legs. It is common everywhere in running streams. Genus Cybistee, Curtis (Trogus, Leach). Body broad, irregularly oval. The appendage of the proster- num is pointed behind. The front legs of the males are expanded and flattened. They live in stagnant water. C. Boeselii, Bergst. (Plate IV., Fig. 7). Pronotum and wing- cases smooth in the male, finely ribbed in the female. It is common in large fish-ponds on the Continent, but does not appear to be indigenous to Britain. Genus Dytiscus, Linn. (True Water Beetles). Elongated oval, slightly convex. The front tarsi are expanded in the males into a rounded plate. The elytra are generally ridged in the females. They frequent standing water. * D. marginalis, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 8, male ; Fig. 9, female). The appendage of the prosternum is bluntly pointed. It is common in ponds and stagnant water. I), latissimus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 10). Elytra with very broad lateral borders. This large beetle, wliicli attains a length of nearly 4 cm., is found only in lakes on the Continent ; it is not British. * D. circumcindus, Ahrens (Plate IV, Fig. 11). This is similar to the last species, but smaller. The process of the metasternum is narrow and pointed. It lives in fish-ponds. * D. circumjlcxus, Fabr., is similar, but the female has BEETLES. 3:? smooth wing-cases. The scuteUum is rusty-red, and the appendage of the metasternum is narrow and pointed. It is found in ponds and ditches, but is not common. * T). piindulatus, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 12). Metasternum produced behind into two blunt and rounded processes. It is chiefly found in running water, and is common and widely distributed. Genus Acilius, Leach. Body oval, slightly convex. The appendage of the pro- sternum is rounded at the end. The front tibise of the males are expanded and flattened. They are found in any kind of standing water. * A. sulcatus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 13). Shortly ovaL Wing-cases with four broad, hairy furrows in the female. It is common in lakes and ponds. Genus Hydaticus, Leach. Slightly convex species, elongated ovate. The projection on the prosternum is rounded at the end. The males have pulvilli of nearly equal size on the under -surface of the tarsi. The wing-cases are not furrowed in the females. They are of moderate size, and may be found in ditches, swamps, and stagnant water generally. * H. tra7isversalis, Fabr. Has a length of about 13 mm.. It is black, with the anterior and lateral borders of the pronotum ferruginous. The wing-cases are broadly bordered with yellow, and there is a narrow transverse band of the same colour at the base. The middle tarsi of the males have three expanded joints, and are provided with pulvilli beneath. 34 BEETLES. Family IV. GYRINID^ (Whirligig Beetles). These are smaller species than those of the last family. They are shiny beetles, and are remarkable for having the eyes completely divided in the middle, as if they had four eyes. The antennffi have a large basal joint, and the remaining joints have the form of a small fusiform club. It is a small family, and only six species (which are not easy to identify) are found in Britain. Genus Gyrinus, Linn. Wing-cases punctate-striate. They are found gregariously in standing or slowly flowing water, where they describe circles on the surface. They have an air-bladder at the end of the abdomen, and are good divers. * G. natator^ Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 14). This is bronze colour beneath. The legs are reddish-brown. It is a common species. Genus Orectochilus, Lacord. Wing-cases not punctate-striate. They live only in running water, partly under stones and water-weeds, and partly on the surface. * 0. villosKs, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 15). The only British species. It is elongated, convex, with a green shine on the upper surface. It is rusty-red beneath. It hides in the daytime, and swims about at night. Family V. HYDROPHILIDJE. Body oval, or nearly round. Antennae very short, not longer than the head, and terminating in a club. The hind legs are broadly flattened, and ciliated. They live in standing water, and swim by moving the legs alternately, and not like oars, BEETLES. 35 and rise to the surface from time to time to take in air. They may be brought to the top of the water by stirring up the mud at the bottom, and can then be caught with a net. Genus Hydrophilus, Fabr. Antennte with nine joints, the second being conical. The point of the metasternum projects far beyond the hind coxae. They are large smooth beetles, and are common in standing water almost all the year through. * H. piceus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 16). Wing-cases with a small pointed tooth. The ridge beneath the thorax is deeply grooved in front. The larvae feeds on water-plants, but the perfect insect preys upon aquatic insects and fish-spawn. The eggs are laid in a shining silvery sac, which floats on the surface of the water. It is very local. Genus Hydrobius, Leach. Body oval, or elongated ; hind tarsi only slightly compressed. The last segment of the maxillary palpi is longer than the one preceding. They abound in standing water, at the roots of aquatic plants. * H. {Hydrous) carahoides, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 17). This species is black and convex. The hind tarsi are strongly compressed and ciliated. It is common in stagnant water. * ff. fuscipcs, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 18), is moderately con- vex, black, or pitchy-brown. The elytra are punctate-striate, with a row of larger punctures. Length, 8 mm. Common. H. glohulics, Payk. This little species is only 3-4 mm. in length. It is brown, with the elytra more distinctly punctate than the head and thorax. It is widely distributed. D 36 BEETLES Genus Philhydrus, Sol. Body elongated, oval. Antennae with nine joints, with the second conical. Only the mesosternum is keeled. The hind legs are only slightly compressed. These beetles are found in standing water. * P. lividus, Forst. (Plate IV., Fig. 19). This is a moderately convex, brownish-yellow beetle. The wing-cases are without an impressed sutural line. It is a common species. Genus Laccobius, Erichs. Body small, almost hemispherical. Antennae with eight joints, with a long three-jointed club. The hind legs have a row of swimming hairs on the upper surface. They live in standing water, at the roots of aquatic j)lants. * L. minuhcs, Linn. Only 3-4 mm. in length. Elytra greyish-yellow, spangled with black, closely punctate-striate. It is not common. Genus Berosus, Leach. Body elongated, oval. The wing-cases are deeply punctate- striate. The hind tibioe and tarsi are ciliated. They live at the roots of plants growing in standing water. * B. luridus, Linn. This is a very convex, dirty brownish- yellow insect. The wing-cases are generally spotted with darker, and terminate in a point. Length, 4-5 mm. It is- found in pools, but is local. Genus HELOniOEUS, Fabr. These are for the most part longish, oval little beetles, with nine joints to the antenme, the last three of which are en- larged. The thorax has five longitudinal furrows. They live on the margin of standing water. BEETLES. 37 * H. aquaiicus, Linn. (Plate IV., Fig. 20). Wing-cases deeply i|| punctate-striate, dark brownish-yellow, with a metallic shine. It varies considerably in size. It is widely distributed. * H. granularis, Linn., is only 2 mm. in length, brownish- yellow, with indistinct black spots, and a small distinct dark spot beyond the middle of the suture. It is rare. OCHTHEBIUS, Leach. Thorax narrowed behind. Antennae with a club composed of five joints. The first joint of the labial palpi is very short, and the two next are of equal length. They live on the margins of standing water and brooks, under stones and macerated twicjs. * 0' 2njgmceus, Fabr. Only 1 J mm. long, oval, slightly convex, pale pitch-brown. The whole of the thorax and abdomen is uniformly punctate -striate. It is a common species. Genus Hydr^na, Kugel. Quite small species of an elongated form, with an octagonal thorax, having a curved excavation on each side. The wing- cases are longer than broad. They are found under water- plants and under stones. * H. gracilis, Germ. Black and somewhat convex, with the antennae, legs and palpi light red. The wing-cases are dark reddish-brown, scarcely broader than the thorax, each with six rows of deep punctures, not closely placed. Length, 1-2 mm. Genus Cyclonotum, Erichs. Body hemispherical. Wing-cases separately rounded behind. The metasternum is keeled and projects between the middle coxce. They are found in stagnant water. * C. orbiculare, Fabr. Shining black, densely punctate. 38 BEETLES. Wing-cases with a longitudinal line next to the suture, which disappears in front. Length, 3-4 mm. It is not uncommon. Genus Sph/ERIDIUM, Fabr. Slightly oval beetles, having both of the elytra rounded behind. The metasternum does not in these extend between the middle ( oxie. They do not live in the water, but in fresh dung. * S. scarabccoideSy Fabr. Wing-cases with a large and often indistinct blood-red spot at the base, and a large yellow one at the extremity. It is a common species. * >S^. hipustidatum, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 21). Smaller than the last species. The pronotum has narrow yellow lateral liorders, and so have the elytra, which also have a large yellow spot at the tip. It is rather common. Genus Cercyon, Leach. Small, smooth, rounded beetles. The prothorax has a small I'oint near the middle, but the metasternum does not extend between the middle coxa?. Some live in damp places, under stones, and others in dung. * C.Jlavipes, Fabr. (Plate IV., Fig. 22). Moderately convex, black and shining. The wing-cases are reddish-ochreous on the lateral borders, and at the tip often reddish -brown. It is very common. Family VI. STAPHYLINID-ffil (Rove Beetles). Wing-cases much reduced in length, generally covering only the wings and the base of the abdomen. The abdomen is composed of seven or eight freely movable segments. This is a very large family, comprising, for the most part, little elongated, black species, which live beneath moss, bark and stones, in decomposing substances and animal refuse, in the BEETLES. 30 ground, in fungi, in ant-hills, on damp sandy shores, and on flowers. The larvte, which resemble them closely, generally prey upon other insects. Many of the beetles have a peculiar odour, and when approached raise their tails. Many species fly in the sunshine, and occasionally get into the human eye. These numerous little insects are very hard to identify, and we shall therefore only mention a few of the more important genera. Genus Myrmedonia, Erichs. Body elongated ; head separated from the thorax by a short neck. The antennae are longer than the head, the second joint being much shorter than the third. The maxilhie are bilobate, with fine pubescence. They are common under stones, especially where there are ants. * 31. canalimdata, Fabr. Brick-red, closely punctured, with a black transverse band across the middle of the abdomen. The pronotum is rather longer than broad, with rounded angles. It is common in the vicinity of ant-nests, under stones, &c. Genus Homalota, Mannerh. Maxillae with small spines on the inner margin. There are no ocelli. This is a large genus of several hundred small species, mostly only 3-4 mm. in length, which abound beneath stones and in damp places. * H. fungi, Grav. Black and rather shining. The legs and antenna3 are reddish-brown, the first joint of the latter being somewhat swollen. The pronotum is slightly longer than the wing-cases. It abounds in fungi and in damp localities. * H. graminicola, Grav. Shining black, with silky down. Tlie pronotum is somewhat quadrate, with two deep depressions. The legs are pitchy, with red tarsi. It is very conmion in fungi. 40 BEETLES. Genus Aleociiaea, Grav Labial palpi four-jointed; all the tarsi five-jointed. The pronotuin has the edges not raised. They vary from 2-5 mm. in length, and live in dung. A. fusci^cs, Fabr. Antennse half as long again as the body, thickened in the middle and red at the base. The legs and wing-cases are red, the latter black towards the scutellum and at the sides. Length, 5-6 mm. A very common species. Genus Lomechusa, Grav. Labial palpi three-jointed. Pronotum with raised lateral borders. The front tarsi with four, the hind tarsi with five, joints. They live in the company of ants. * L. paradoxa, Grav. The last joint of the antennoe is thicker than it is long, and is compressed. The thorax is smooth, slightly narrowed, and rounded at the sides. Length, 5 mm. It is found in the nests of the red ant. Genus Tachyporus, Grav. Wing-cases longer than the pronotum; antennae filiform. Maxillary palpi, with the terminal joint pyramidal. The abdomen is bordered. They are found under decomposing veQ;etable matter. * T. oUus2is, Linn. Body smooth, orange-coloured ; thorax, and the front half of the wing-cases and the tip of the abdomen, blue-black. Length, 4-5 mm. Fairly common. * T. hrunneus, Fabr. Eather smaller than the last species. The wing-cases and abdomen are distinctly punctured, tlie latter being entirely orange- coloured. It is a common species. Genus Tachinus, Grav. Elytra as in the last genus ; the maxillary palpi are, however^ BEETLES. 41 filiform, with the last joint neither thicker nor longer than the last but one. They are found in dung, on the exuded sap of trees, and in damp places. T. ritfi'pes, De Geer. Dark brown, convex, finely and closely punctured. The base of the antennjs and the legs are orange-coloured. Length, 7 mm. It is a common species. * T. flavipes, Fabr. Of the same size as the preceding, but less convex; dark brown, with light reddish-brown legs and wing-cases. It is not so common. Genus Eolitobius, Stephens. Elytra as long as the thorax. Antennae and maxillary palpi filiform. These beetles are found in fungi and under decom- posing vegetable debris. * B. atricapillus, Fabr. This species is bright red, with the head, sternum, elytra and tip of the abdomen black. On the elytra there is a pale yellow transverse mark near the base, and the posterior border is of the same colour. Length, 6-7 mm. It is common in Boleti. Genus Quedius, Stephens. Antennae filiform ; body elongated, slightly tapering at both extremities ; head rounded, with a slight constriction between it and the thorax. They are found in damp and dark places. * Q- fulgidus, Fabr. Wing-cases black or brick-red, finely punctured and pubescent. The pronotum is expanded at the sides. Lenc^th, 6-11 mm. It is common under moss and in cellars from March to Xovember. The larva feeds on mat^gots. -DD" Genus Creopkilus, Stephens. Antennae somewhat clubbed, gradually thickened from the seventh to the tenth joint. Palpi filiform, the fourth joint 42 BEETLES. of the maxillary palpi shorter than the third. Hind tibiffi with spines. Front tarsi expanded. The only British species is : * C. maxillosnis, Linn. (Plate V., Fig. 1). Head and thorax with hair only on the sides. It is found generally on carrion. Genus Emus, Leach. Antennae slightly thickened only at the end, the sixth to the tenth joint being broad. * ;S'. hirttis, Linn. (Plate V., Fig. 2). The pubescence on the head, thorax, and the three last abdominal segments is golden- yellow. The wing-cases have a broad, grey, felt-like band upon them. It frequents horse and cow droppings, but is not common. Genus Leistotrophus, Perty. Only the end of the antennae is tapering. The last joint of the maxillary palpi is smaller than the last but one. They live in dung during the summer, and in moss in winter. * L. nehulosus, Fabr. (Plate Y., Fig. 3). Black, with a thick grey pubescence. Tlie base of the antennse and the legs are orange-coloured, the latter black at the base. * Z. murinus, Linn., is smaller than the last, and has black lugs and palpi. Both species have a predilection for human faices. Genus Staphylinus, Linn. Antennre filiform, the terminal joint emarginate at the tip. Palpi filiform, the last joint being as long as that preceding. They live under decomposing vegetable refuse,. in dung and carrion, and if disturbed raise the abdomen and emit a penetrating odour. o. 7. 17. BEETLES. 43 * S. ccrsareus, Cederli. (Plate V., Fig. 4). Black, witli a dull gloss ; wing-cases and legs red ; abdominal segments with golden-yellow lateral spots. It is common on paths and roads. >S'. fossor, Scop. (Plate V., Fig. 5). Black, with a dark reddish-brown head and thorax. The elytra, tibice, and tarsi are orange-coloured and hairy. The abdominal segments with small, shining, golden spots. Length, 13-15 mm. It is met with in damp moss in woods, and is common on the Continent, though absent from our fauna. * *S'. puhescens, De Geer. Eather smaller than the last species ; black, spotted with dense brownish-grey pubescence, varied with golden-yellow hair on the head and on the middle of the abdomen. The legs are black. It is not common. * aSI erythropterus, Linn. Black, with a dull shine, with the base and the end of the antennae, the elytra and legs, red. Scutellum yellow. The last three abdominal segments are spotted with yellow. Length, 13-15 mm. It is found in woods in the north of England. * S. stercorarius, Oliv. Black, with the base of the antennae, the elytra and legs, reddish-brown. The scutellum is velvety- black. There is a triangular spot on the second and third segments of the abdomen, and a broad silvery-white band on the sixth. Length, 14-15 mm. This species is rare. Genus Ocypus, Stephens. Antennae more slender than in Staphylintis ; abdomen slender and of uniform thickness. The middle coxae are in contact. These beetles also live in carrion, dung, and decomposing vegetable matter. * 0. olens, Miill. The Devil's Coach-horse (Plate V., Fig. 6). This species is dull black, and is provided with wings. It is 4A BEETLES. <3ommon throughout the British Isles. The larva makes a pit in which it lies in wait for other insects. * 0. similis, Fabr., is 17-19 mm. in length, dull black, finely pubescent, and wingless. The elytra are only slightly shorter than the pronotum, and are closely punctured, as is also the abdomen. It is found under stones, in moss, &c., but is local. * 0. cttpreits, Eoss. Black, and provided with wings. The head and pronotum are bronzy, and the antennae and palpi red, whilst the elytra are brown, with grey down. The legs are black. It is common under stones. * 0. cyancus, Payk. (Plate V., Fig. 7). This species is black, with a dull gloss, finely punctured, and is provided with wings. The head, thorax, and wing-cases are dark blue. The antennae are tipped with rusty-brown. Length, 15-22 mm. It is a scarce species, which is sometimes met with running over woodland paths. Genus Philoxtiius, Leach. Antennae not elbowed. Head rounded, square, or oval, with a neck-like constriction between it and the pronotum, which is as long as it is broad. Wing-cases truncated, middle coxae in contact or only slightly separated. They are black species of moderate size, and live in putrefying animal and vegetable matters, under moss and stones, or on the exuded sap of trees. * P. splendens, Fabr. Shining black, with metallic-green elytra. The pronotum is not punctured. The elytra are rather closely punctured and covered with black hair. Length, 10-13 mm. * F. ccneus, Eossi. This species is black, with the head and thorax bronzy-black, and the wing-cases metallic-green. The head is almost quadrilateral, with five punctures between the eyes. The pronotum with two to four punctures on the surface, BEETLES. 45 and a row of punctures along the margins. The wing-cases are also finely punctured. Length, 9-15 mm. It is common on dung, carrion, and fungi, in which the beetles and larvae hunt for the grubs of gnats. * P. oiigrittdus, Grav. Black and elongated, with the first joints of the antennae dark pitcliy - brown. The legs are generally brownish -yellow. Each row of punctures on the pronotum consists of three. The wing-cases are punctured, with a fine grey pubescence. Length, 4 mm. F. cyanipennis, Fabr. (Plate V., Fig. 8). Black, with bright blue wing-cases. The head is rounded, with several punctures behind the eyes. Pronotum rather broader than long. It lives in fungi, and, though found in various places on the Continent, is not British. Genus Xantholinus, Serv. Antenna} slightly elbowed, with no greater distance between the two than between them and the eyes. Palpi filiform. Wing-cases with the sutural borders overlapping. Coxas of the middle legs not in contact. They live in decomposing ve2;etable matter and in duni^. ^' X. fulgiclus, Pabr. Shining black, with red elytra and legs. The pronotum is smooth, with a deep groove on each side. The elytra are irregularly punctured. Length, 9 mm. It is found in vegetable cUhris, dead wood, &c. ^ X. pundulatvs, Payk. Black, with the antenna?, elytra, and legs either dark green or rusty -brown. The pronotum is longer than broad, with very various punctuations. It is a common species in moss, cut grass, &c. Genus Lathrobiuim, Grav. The front of the head projects over the base of the an ten nee 46 BEETLES. in this genus, and the last joint of the maxillary palpi is tapering. The body is very slender. The species are numerous, and have an elongated form. They live in damp woods under moss, leaves, and stones. * L. elongatum, Linn. Shining black ; antenna?, legs, and wing-cases orange, the last with the base black. The wing- cases are longer than the pronotum. The head is nearly round. Length, 8 mm. It is found in woods among moss. * L. falvipenne, Grav. Of the same size as the last species. The pronotum is as long as the elytra, which are reddish-brown, closely punctured. It is common in moss, flood-refuse, &c. Genus Pj]:derus, Grav. Pronotum rounded, nearly oval; wing-cases truncated behind ; body slender, with long slender legs ; antennae straight and filiform. They live near brooks and streams, generally gregariously under leaves and stones, but may also be seen running about on the ground. * P. riparius, Linn. Wing-cases blue ; antennae black, with the base orange. The pronotum, the first four segments of the abdomen, the mesosternum, and legs are orange-coloured. Length, 6-7 mm. A local insect, which likes to hibernate- in rotten willows. P. ruficollis, Fabr. Blue-black, with a red pronotum, and black antennae, palpi, and legs. Length, 8-9 mm. Genus Stenus, Latr. Abdomen either completely round, or with the upper and nether surfaces separated by a lateral border. The antennoe- are situated between the eyes. The pronotum is narrower than the head. These beetles live in damp places, such as the banks of brooks, and in swamps, as well as under fallem leaves in woods. There are a great many species. BEETLES. 47 * *S'. hinotatuSy Ljungh. Black, closely punctured, and pubes- cent. The antenna and palpi are pitchy -brown, and the front of the head is flat and very slightly furrowed. The tarsi are blackish-brown, the third joint being expanded, and the fourth bilobate. Length, 6 mm. Found in reeds and in damp grass, but local. * S. higuttatuSy Linn. This species is of the same size as the preceding. It is black, with the wing-cases coarsely punctured, each with a small, round, orange spot behind the middle. The abdomen has a border. It is common on sandy shores. * S. hipunctatus, Erichs., is very similar, but the yellow spots on the wing-cases are everywhere equidistant, and the front of the head is more slightly furrowed. Local. Genus Oxyporus, Fabr. Antennae slightly elbowed, scarcely as long as the head, which is larger and broader than the thorax. The elytra are narrower than the thorax, which is half again as broad as it is long, and is much narrowed behind. In the males the head is larger, and the end of the sixth abdominal segment is slightly emarginate. They live in fungi. * 0. rufus, Linn. (Plate V., Fig. 9). Shining black, with the pronotum, the first four abdominal segments, and the legs, red. The wing-cases have a large orange-coloured shoulder-spot. They are found in the larger Boleti. 0. maxillosusy Fabr. (Plate V., Fig. 10). Reddish-ochreous, with the head and pronotum pitchy-black. The elytra are pale yellowish-brown, with the extreme tips black. It is found in Agarici. Genus Bledius, Leach. Body of nearly uniform breadth throughout. These species are provided with wings. The head is rather narrower than 48 BEETLES. the pronotum, which is generally much broader than long. The abdomen has raised lateral borders. The antennae are elbowed, the first joint being long. The males often have horns on the head or pronotum. They reside in the sand on the banks of streams and lakes, in holes which they have made for themselves. * B. tricornis, Herbst. Black, with reddish-brown antennae and legs. The elytra are red, and there is a triangular black mark on the pronotum. On each side of the front of the head there is a rather long, broadly-compressed horn. The thorax and elytra are closely punctured. The end of the abdomen is red. Length, 5-7 mm. It is only found in salt marshes, &c. * B. fradicornis, Payk. Black, with the legs and base of the antennae red. The elytra are black or red, closely and deeply punctured. The pronotum has a longitudinal furrow. Length, 2 mm. It is local. Genus Oxytelus, Grav. Body of uniform breadth, flattened. Wings are present. The head is prominent, and is attached to the pronotum by a very short neck. The elytra are short, scarcely as long as they are broad, and usually a little broader than the pronotum. They live in dung, under damp moss and dead leaves, and a few in sandy shores. The two following are very common species. * 0. rugosus, Ribr. Black, and somewhat shining, with reddish pitchy-brown legs. The front of the head, the pro- notum, and wing-cases are all deeply and closely punctured, the pronotum with three longitudinal grooves. Length, 4-i mm. * 0. deprcssus, Grav. The head, pronotum, and elytra are very finely and closely shagreened, and the front of the lic;id BEETLES. 49" is slightly depressed on both sides. On the pronotum there are three longitudinal furrows. Length, lj-2mm. Genus Anthophagus, Grav. Body elongated, slightly convex. Wings are present. The- wing-cases are broader than the pronotum. There are no- spines on the tibi?e. The antennae are fine and filiform. They live on plants and flowers, especially in hilly districts, and pre}'^ upon other insects. A. carahoides, Linn. Keddish-ochreous, with the head and end of the abdomen pitchy-brow^n. The pronotum is finely punctured, and the wing-cases are closely and more strongly punctured. Length, 4 mm. Genus Omalium, Grav. Body generally elongated, often flat. Wings are present.. The head (together with the eyes) is almost triangular. The pronotum is short, obcordate, or transverse, narrowed behind. The antennae are slightly thickened towards the tips. They are- found on flowering plants and bushes, in grass, and some under the bark of trees in the fralleries of wood-borinf]j beetles, the larvie of which they feed upon. * 0. rivulare, Payk. Shining black, with the legs and base of the antennae yellowish-brown. The w^ing-cases are darker.. The head and pronotum are closely punctured, with two^ elongated deep grooves. Length, 3-3 J mm. Common in dung, fungi, on flowers, and in the nests of ants. * 0, planu77i, Payk. Shining black, finely punctured. The- pronotum has a slight furrow and an oblong depression on each side at the base. The elytra are testaceous, brow^n, and punctured,, and the legs are of the same colour. The antenniy are testaceous,, tipped with black. Length, 2-2| mm. Local, but not uncommon^ 50 BEETLES. Genus Antiiobium, Leach. Body short and broad, somewhat flattened. Wings are present. The head is nearly triangular, with a smooth front, and rather large, prominent eyes. The pronotum is slightly narrower than the elytra, which almost cover the abdomen. The antennae are usually thickened towards the extremity. They are found in flowers, and particularly in hilly districts. * A. ophthalmicum, Payk. Testaceous, finely punctured, with a black head and prominent eyes. The elytra are glossy yellow, and twice as long as the thorax. The abdomen is black, and so are the tips of the antennae. Length, about lJ-2 mm. It is common in flowers. * A. minutum, Fabr., is about the same size as the last species. It is black, somewhat shining, with the head slightly punctured. The pronotum has the sides expanded and flat, finely punctured. The wing-cases are pitchy-brown and punctured, truncated at the end in the male, spined in the female. The base of the antennae is testaceous, and so are the legs. It is local, but common where it occurs. Family VII. SILPHIDiE. Body flat, sharply margined. Antennae with eleven joints, rarely with only ten, gradually thickened, or with several of the joints at the end expanded. The front coxae are conical, and project from their articular pits. The abdomen is composed of six movable segments. They generally live in carrion or in the bark of trees, and thus act as scavengers in nature. Genus Catops, Fabr. Body elongated, oval, brown or blackish -brown. The antennae have five expanded joints at the end, the second BEETLES. 51 of which is the smallest. The last joint of the maxillary palpi is conically tapering. They are agile insects, which are found under moss, dead leaves and stones, as well as in decomposing animal and vegetable substances. * C. tristis, Panz. Pitchy-black, with the antennse much thickened, the first six joints being reddish -brown, and the remainder (which are broader than they are long) brown. The pronotum is short with rounded sides, and the wing- cases are brown and indistinctly striated. The legs are brown, and the tarsi rusty -yellow. Length, 4-5 mm. It is common in carrion. Genus Necropiiilus, Illig. Oval, convex beetles, with the five last joints of the antennae enlarged. The last joint of the maxillary palpi is cylindrical. The wing-cases have a broad, raised border and truncated tips, and are dentated at the sutural angle. iV. suhta-raneus, Illig. This is the only European species. It is pitchy-black, with the wing-cases punctate-striate. It is found in damp, dark places and under stones, and often in snail-shells. It is common in some mountainous districts in Central Europe, but is not a British species. Length, 5-8 mm. Genus Necrophorus, Fabr. (Burying Beetles). Elytra truncated. Antennae with ten joints, with a very large foliated club at the end, formed of four joints. They are common in carrion in the summer, to which they often fly from a considerable distance. They bury it, and lay their eggs in it. * N. germanicus, Linn. (Plate Y., Fig. 11). This large species has reddish-brown elytra, and a rusty-yellow spot on the front of the head. It lives less on carrion than on other E 52 BEETLES. insects, especially dung-beetles, which it attacks and carries off, ond for this purpose it frequents dung-heaps. Very rare in Britain. * N. humator, Fabr. (Plate V., Fig. 12). Smaller than the Inst, with the club of the antennae orange. It is a common species. * N. vespillo, Linn. (Plate Y., Fig. 13). Base of the antennse orange. The front border of the pronotum has a thick yellow pubescence. The hind tibiee are curved. It buries the dead bodies of birds, moles, mice, &c., and lays its eggs in the car- case; it is also frequently met with on flowers. It smells strongly of musk. * N. vestigator, Hersch. (Plate Y., Fig. 14). The thorax is surrounded with a yellow, woolly pubescence. The club of the antennae is oranf^je, and the hind tibite are straioht. * N. rusjjator, Erichs. (Plate Y., Fig. 15). Black, with only the extreme tip of the abdomen ciliated with yellowish-grey. The bands on the wing-cases are red. * JV. mortuorum, Fabr. (Plate Y, Fig. 16). Antennae per- fectly black. The first orange band on the elytra is unin- terrupted, but the second is broken at the apex into two large spots. It is found in carrion and in fungi. Genus Silpiia, Linn. Body oval or elongated; antennte gradually expanded, or with three or four larger joints at the end. The maxillary palpi are oval or cylindiicd above. The pronotum is wedge- shaped or semicircular. Tliey mostly live on carrion, but also prey on living insects. They are to be sought for in dead carcases and under stones, and when touched throw out itM evil - smelling liquid both from the mouth and abdomen. BEETLES. 53 Tliey also destroy caterpillars, and the only species which is to be regarded as an injurious insect is >S^. atrata, the larvae of which feed on young beetroot-plants. * S. (Necrodes) littoralis, Linn. (Plate V., Fig. 17). Antennae gradually thickened. Pronotum wedge-shaped ; elytra trun- cated, black, with three raised longitudinal lines. They are found in fresh or dried meat, in carrion, under stones, and in damp moss on the banks of streams. * aS*. thoracica, Linn. (Plate YL, Fig. 1). Pronotum red, with golden-yellow pubescence ; wing-cases with three raised longitudinal lines, and an elevation in the centre. It may be found on dead slugs and Amphibia, in woods, &c. * aS^. rugosa, Linn. (Plate YL, Fig. 2). Antennae with three distinct terminal joints. Head and pronotum black, with thick grey pubescence. The elytra are transversely rugose and free from hair. This is the commonest of the genus with us. S. quadrijpundaia, Linn. (Plate YL, Fig. 3). Black, with the lateral borders of the pronotum and the wing-cases brownish-yellow, the latter each with a round, black spot in the middle and another at the base. They are common in oak woods in spring, where they attack the nests of caterpillars. * aS'. opaca, Linn. Upper surface covered with dense sessile, grey pubescence. The wing-cases have three raised longitudinal lines. It is said, like the rather larger S. atrata, to be some- times injurious to beet. * S. obscura, Linn. (Plate YL, Fig. 4). Black, slightly shining. The pronotum is scarcely emarginate in front. The wing-cases are regularly punctured, the punctures being at regular intervals, and not coalescing. * >S^. atrata, Linn. (Plate YL, Fig. 5). Shining black. The pronotum is slightly concave. The elytra are roughly R4 BEETLES. punctured, with three raised, smooth, longitudinal stria?. It is a very common species. Genus Anisotoma, Illig. Antennffi eleven -jointed, five belonging to the club. The mesosternum is finely and sharply keeled. The hind tarsi have only four joints. Wing-cases punctate -striate. They are mostly small beetles, varying from 1-3 mm. in lengtli, which live in fungi and decaying wood. * A. cinnamomea, Panz. Elongated, yellowish -brown, with tlie pronotum bordered at the sides, and widest in the middle. The elytra are uniformly punctate-striate, with an additional row of larger punctures between the strioe. Length, 4-5 mm. It is found in fungi, and especially in truffles. * A. diibia, Illig. Eather flatly convex, pitchy -brown, blackish or reddish -yellow. The pronotum is closely punc- tured, and the wing - cases are strongly punctate - striate. Length, 2-3 mm. Family VIIL SCAPHIDIID-ffl. Boat-shaped, smooth, shining little beetles, which live in fungi and in the decaying stumps of trees. The antennae are straight and consist of eleven joints, the last five being enlarged. The front coxic are prominent. The number of abdominal segments varies from five to seven. Genus Scaphidium, Fabr. Antennse with four or five terminal joints; eyes distinctly emarginate. They live in fungi growing on trees. * S. quadrimaculaticm, Oliv. Shining black, with reddish- brown antennae, with a black club. The wing-cases, which liave two red transverse spots, are rather closely punctured. The legs are black with red tarsL Length, 6 mm. 6. '' < M -^ 8 9. 10. 11. II BEETLES. 55 Family IX. HISTERID-E. AViiig- cases strongly truncated. Legs with flat tibuv, retractile into pits. Hind coxfe widely separated. They live in carrion and dung, and beneath the bark of trees, where they prey upon other insects. Genus Hister, Linn. Body somewhat stout ; head retractile, and covered beneath by a rounded projection of the prosternum. The flagellum of the antennae is gradually thickened, with a flattened oval club. The hind tibia have two rows of spines on the outer edge. They live in dung, or on carrion, as well as on living insects. * H. quadrimaculatus, Linn. (Plate \l., Fig. 6). "Wing-cases with a large, frequently-interrupted, red spot. The front tibia? have a simple tooth at the end. It sometimes kills dung-beetles, H. quadri7iotat7is, Scrib. (Plate YL, Fig. 7). Smaller than the last species. The spots on the elytra often run together. The tibitie have three small teeth on the outer margin. H. Jimetarius, Herbst. (Plate YL, Fig. 8). Elytra with a large orange spot, concave behind. The front tibiae have four teeth. Length, 6-7 mm. It lives in dry, sandy pastures. * H. hiniaculatus, Linn. Only 4 mm. in length. Antenniij and lecjs brownish-red. * H. cadavcrinus, Illig. (Plate YL, Fig. 9). This species is as large as the foregoing, with similar elytra, but the front tibiiu have five or six dentations. It is not rare. * H. unicolor, Fabr. (Plate YL, Fig. 10). Perfectly black, with the outermost and the two inner strire of the wing-cases strongly truncated. Front tibii^ with three teeth. Length, 4-5 mm. Common in cow-dung. 56 BEETLES. * H. merdarius^ Sturm. Elongated, quadrilateral. The front tibiie with three or four teeth. The two inner striae of the wing-cases are the only ones which are truncated. Length, 5 mm. It is a rare species. Genus Saprinus, Erichs. Upper surface more or less punctured. Prosternum not lobate ; head retractile ; antennae filiform, with an elongated first joint and a rounded club. They live in dung, decaying fungi, and carrion, * S. nitidulus, Eabr. (Plate YL, Fig. 11). Black, with a metallic shine. Wing-cases rather closely punctured, with four striae only reaching to the middle. It is common in dung, &c. * S. cencus, Eabr. This species is only 2-3 mm. long, black, the elytra with a complete sutural stria, which is recurved. The striae on the elytra only reach the middle, and the second is entirely wanting. It is a common insect. Family X. PHALACRIDiE. Antennae eleven-jointed, with a club composed of three joints. The front coxae are globose. The tarsi have five joints, the first three being broad and velvety beneath, and the fourth very small. They are small species, and live in flowers, where the larvae may also be found. They hibernate under the bark of trees. Genus Phalacrus, Payk. * P. corruscuSy Payk. (Plate VL, Fig. 12). This is shortly oval and very convex. The last joint of the maxillary palpi is long and almost cylindrical. It frequents flowers, especially the Comjpositce. BEETLES. 57 Family XI. NITIDULID^ffl. Small, flat, and rather broad beetles, with straiglit aiitennde, usually composed of eleven joints, three forming the club. The front coxae are cylindrical. The tarsi are five-jointed, some with the first and others with the fourth segment very small. They are all small beetles, and feed on dried animal matter and carrion. Many of them are found upon flowers. Genus EpuKiEA, Erichs. These are for the most part yellowish-brown species, which live on flowers and on the exuded sap of trees. The antennae converge obliquely inwards towards each other, and the first three joints of the tarsi are expanded, and densely clothed with small hairs beneath. ^ E. ohsoleta, Fabr. Elongated, of uniform breadth. The wing-cases are ochre-yellow, with one or more spots. The thorax and abdomen are often blackish. It is found under the bark of pine-trees, and on the exuded sap of other trees. Length, 3 mm. Genus Meligetiies, Kirby. Elongated, oval. The hind tibiie are ciliated, and the first three joints of the tarsi are expanded and villous beneath. The wing-cases leave the last abdominal segment exposed. They are found on flowers, often in large numbers, and under the bark of trees. ■^ M. ceneus, Fabr. (Plate VI., Fig. 13). Shining green or blue, with the under surface black, and legs pitchy-black. It is one of the commonest beetles living upon flowers, and eats into the bud, where the female deposits her eggs. The larvte feed upon the flower, and pass through their metamorphoses in 58 BEETLES. the ground. The beetle is found in spring and summer, and hibernates. It is very destructive to rape. Genus Cychramus, Kugel. Wing-cases covering the abdomen except the extreme tip. Antennal grooves indistinct. Prosternum with a conical projection towards a groove on the mesosternum. They are found in fuzzballs, and on flowering shrubs, such as hawthorn- blossom. * C, luteus, Fabr. (Plate VI., Fig. 14). Pieddish or brownish- yellow, with yellow pubescence, the hairs being close and sessile. The pronotum and elytra are not punctured nor spotted. It is common on flowers. Genus Ips, Fabr. Elongated little beetles, with slightly abbreviated elytra. The prosternum reaches only a little over the front margin of the mesosternum. The species live under the bark, and feed upon the sap of trees. * /. quadri^pustulata, Fabr. (Plate YI., Fig. 15). Each wing- case with two bright red spots. Antennse and legs pitchy- brown. It frequents freshly -cut pine-trees, and the larvse live under the bark. Family XII. TROGOSITIDJE. Body oval or elongated, usually flattened. Antennae eleven- jointed. The first tarsal joint is the smallest. The claws are simple, with a small styliform lobe between them, terminated by two bristles. They are found under the bark of trees, and among drugs. Genus Tkogosita, Oliv. Body flat and elongated, smooth. Antennae eleven-jointed^ gradually and only slightly thickened towards the extremity. BEETLES. 5D Eyes reniform. They are found in rotten wood, under bark, and in bakers' shops, warehouses, &c. * T. mauritanica, Linn. (Plate VI., Fig. 16). Pitchy-brown. Wing-cases punctate-striate. The beetles and their larvae are found among drugs and other merchandise, and have thus been carried over the whole of the globe. They are also found under the bark of decaying forest trees, such as oaks, beeches,. and elms. Genus Peltis, Geoffr. Body oval or elongated. Antenn£e with a narrow, loosely- jointed club. Eyes transverse in some, more rounded in others. Tibia3 without spurs. They are found under the bark of trees. P. ferruginea, Linn. (Plate VI., Fig. 17). This species is- 8-9 mm. in length. Wing-cases with regular rows of punc- tures, and seven raised longitudinal lines. It is found under the bark of various trees, and also in houses. Family XIII. COLYDIID-ffi. Antennae with from eight to eleven joints, clubbed. Tarsr simple, with four joints. Abdomen with five, rarely with six segments, the first three or four being immobile. Front coxae globose. They are found under bark, and in fungi growing on trees. Genus Ditoma, Illig. Body elongated. Antennae eleven-jointed, not set in pits.. The first three joints of the tarsi are about equally short. They are found under the bark of trees. ■^ D. crenata, Fabr. Black, with reddish-brown antennae and legs. Wing-cases punctate-striate, with alternate, raised, inter- mediate spaces, and each with two red spots or bands. Length,, 2-3 mm. Local, under the bark of dead trees.