= ae Teste ee Saecees : a a So Seas ee 3 thats {} i Mi > a ne iy iti + Aa ; Dt ‘ ieee we hs Po 5 ¢ TSC, ieee cs . a". j sf , 4 as el AF J ¥ ; 5 wry 7 : hay ae oe i Wa f of . “ae P| ye ie ‘ Ps y ‘ : 7 ‘ \ ’ ' a wrt > . ' " j P : 5 7 i ? ’ 1 = / j ‘ ? ' von ‘ t 4 i ¥ te 4's { “ i ” ‘ iy j " rc) ny rar pied 5 eae ¥ by Py * i ° ~ y , aa Pa i ‘ ; rei: es el + ont) ; A ‘ f j Be. Co) re n S hor ‘ ’ LAY Me ‘, 7 Ty 1. as “a j ‘ 2 ee ; f ~ Z a vee Whe Myles: | ay A ul? a a om Ate) an rt , J’ - 7 ‘ 7 ' iF f A ie * | . tray’, oe hil rer te Ro Se THE ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL. VOL. I. FROM MARCH, 1824, TO JANUARY, 1825. CONDUCTED BY THOMAS BELL, Esa. F.L.S. JOHN GEORGE CHILDREN, Eso. F.R. & E.S. JAMES DE CARLE SOWERBY, Ese. F.L.S. AND G. B. SOWERBY, F.L.S.4 ondan : PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY W. PHILLIPS, GEORGE YARD, LOMBARD STREET; SOLD ALSO BY G. B. SOWERBY, 156, REGENT STREET 3 w. & c. TAIT, EDINBURGH AND A. A, ROYER, AU JARDIN DES PLANTES A PARIS. 1825. aoe. wea iui ie : Le rates 4 uF x %, ae . Yous sha me ge Wi oy é pie a ee wis i YOR TOS mA Ao etl 5 te al ad Nese anges, ey ee ee me ; Digi Af sta ie A ee eit CONTRIBUTORS TO THE FIRST VOLUME OF THE ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL. THOMAS BELL, ESQ. F.L.S. E. T. BENNETT, F.L.S. E. W. BRAYLEY, JUN. A.L.S. THOMAS BRIGHTWELL, ESQ. F.L.S. W. J. BRODERIP, ESQ. F.L.& HS. REV. W. BULWER, F.L.S. WILLIAM J. BURCHELL, ESQ. F.L.S. _G. CHILDREN, ESQ. F.R. & LS. kc. )T. DE LA BECHE, ESQ. F.R.&L.S., &c. HIN OLIVER FRENCH, ESQ. THE LATE RIGHT HON. LORD GLENBERVIE, F.R.S., &c. JOHN EDWARD GRAY, ESQ. M.G.S. THOMAS HORSFIELD, M.D. F.L.S., M.G.S. REV. W. KIRBY, M.A. F.R.&L.S., Xe. W. E. LEACH, M.D. F.R.& L.S., &c. W. S. MACLEAY, ESQ. M.A. F.L.S., &c. MR. GEORGE SAMOUELLE, A.L.S. G. B. SOWERBY, F.L.S. J. DE C. SOWERBY, ESQ. F.L.S. JAMES FRANCIS STEPHENS, ESQ. F.L,S. GEORGE SUCH, ESQ. F.L.S. WILLIAM SWAINSON, ESQ. E.R. © 1,8., We MR. C. WILLCOX. N. A. VIGORS, JUN. ESQ. M-A. F.L.8. é Ye wn Reara FN : at “guisaov rear ane or a natn O2l AIS BAR Bul PRAM Aaa ; 0.4 “OU Ta YAaa ee . an PN ee PEL ASAT STKE aA Br enor | 1 PES pew AR gone, us a r | Gal s'k igh “ae « Pe Bee aera ry MAT ; hh aa | ni: ‘oes Rab he 7 ee Rak Co oar ‘diet aa eh Ae Ma spas Ritts Oke TERR Ce A Ra, TY ARGU it [2 i: woe vane ATM é * ° oe VE ORR ee Ok: , wR Heer dy hovac. fy Papen Oe i . ARH) ee et a Sa, MY on Ni BB as tS ee Bud T) AM ‘SMa See yore is . j ; aa ne r oe Maat SRA = B aT aks cane Ble 2 oe Wash ah ‘ ee “sta $ nh een Fo oa" Cha nsebk oN a ag 5) rae ies hg ina’ ifle one Wns Moi aig it CONTENTS. March, 1824. , Page Ar. 1.—An inquiry respecting the True Nature of Instinct, and of the Mental Distinction between Brute Animals and Man; introductory to a Series of Essays, explana- tory of the various faculties and actions of the former, which have been considered to result from a degree of Moral Feeling and of Intellect. By Joun Oxitver DEO OF 1: RRP © IP Ee bess lati Rote ala nt mi Axt. [1.—Monograph on the Cebrionide, a Fantily of In- sects. By W. E. Leacu, M.D. F.R. & LS. &e.... 33 Ant. Hl.—On the situation and. rank of Sponges in the Scale of Nature, and on their internal Structure. By My; Soun. EnwW and GRAY yoatetioveue pas St Paes.) AC Art. [V.— Description of a new Species of Emarginula. By THoMss BRL, Ts. FDS. sce essciterererdes ¢ aes) ae 52 Art. V.— Description of a new Species of Iridina. By Mr. Wie S OW ILENE) We diiNe va cares cisia wre tste ties sek eh eres 53 Arr. VI.—-Some Observations on the Lamarckian Naiades, and on the propriety of uniting them all under one PEMErie MAME. -_ DY Use SHINE va.d'« F660 cca.s con cerc.ts 53 Art. VII.-— Descriptions, accompanied by Figures of several Helices, discovered by T. E. Bownicu, Esq. at Porro PAINTS (RUNS 8 PPADS PORES B OC ovate a mae OIE alae = 56 Ant. VIII. — Descriptions, accompanied by Figures, of several New Species of Shells. By Mr. G. B. Sow- PRN 5 oN brat e wenai aie a aie eyale ie ria vine oa telaig ms aisie 58 Art, 1X.—On Balea. By Mr. Jonn Enwaro Gray... 61 CONTENTS. Page Art. X.— Monograph of the Genus [elicina. By Mr. JOHN EDWARD GRAY SAIS CTR. VEE: ones ond mies ne 62 Arr. XI.— Monograph of the Cypreidew, a Family of Tes- taceous Mollusca. By the same. (to be continued).... 71 Art. XII.— Abstract of a ** Memoir on a New Genus of the Order Rodentia, named Capromys.’ By M.G. A. Des- MAREST ceccessosess ee ee ea si wewArt. XIIL.— Catalogue of Birds, and of terrestrial and : fluviatile Molluscee found in the vicinity of Geneva. Com« municated by H. T. De La Becue, Esq. M.G.S...... 89 Aut. XILV.— Abstract of a Memoir on the Physiology of Helix Pomatia; by M. B. Gasparv, D.M.; with Notes; by ToBurny Be PES wood. oood . hid 93 Art. XV.— Memoir on the Chemical Composition of the Corneous Parts of Insects; by M. Auacusrus Oorer. Translated from the original French, with some additional Remarks and Experiments ; by JuG. Cuitpren, Esq. ER. LsSweed,: ya. Lawak ex cena cy emdieds 104 Art. XVI.— Analytical Notices :— Curtis’s British Entomology ...scccceeicees (oOk Sy 116 Supplement to the Appendix of Captain pet s Voyage, 1319 20 iehwwa eee Ham bo'b oLQitts dailies BSNS V2 a SAK EK SRA ees eect - 135- CONTENTS. No. Il. June, 1824. Art. XIX.—Monograph on the Cypreide, a Family of Tes- taceous Mollusca. By Mr. Joun Epwarp Gray, MBG,.S. (continued.) s\n stintao ed oe siclok SUMMA & Arr. XX.—An Inquiry respecting the true nature of In- stinct, and of the Mental Distinction between Brute Animals and Man.—Essay I.—An Examination of the prevailing Division of the Brute Powers into Intellectual and Instinctive, as presented, in some recent publications, by the Rev. Dr. Fleming, and by M. Frederic Cuvier ; including Strictures on the Theory of Habit proposed by the latter : with Illustrations of the Specific Constitution of the Brute Mind. By Joun Oxiver Frencn, Esq. Art. XXI.—Abstract of a Memoir on the Physiology of Helix Pomatia; by B.Gasparp, M.D. With Notes, by I. Ber, Esg. FL:S. (coneludeds) 6. si. 30s Art. XXII.—Some Observations on the Nomenclature of Ornithology ; particularly with reference to the admis- sion of New Genera. By N. A. Vicors, Jun. Esq. OF Od Sty Vat Bere aaa agin Sea Solis able Fs Arr. XXU1.—Remarks on the Animal Nature of Sponges, By POAT EEL Hag) TLS sais he 2 sks we CER: Arr. XXIV.——Conchological Observations, being an attempt to fix the study of Conchology on a firm basis. By 137 153 174 180 202 Mr. Joun Enwarp Gray, M.GSl02. 6.8 odie. as. 204 Arr. XX V.—Correction of the Characters of the Genus Bel- lerophon, established by De Montfort, in his Conchylio- losie. By M. Derrance....... Db aeons Seoadevees (220 CONTENTS. Art. XX VI.— Description of a new Species of Arachnides, of the Genus Epeira, of M. Walckenaer. By C.VauruiEer Ant. XXVII.—On a Quadruped belonging to the Order Rodentia. By Tuomas Say .......... a aelieeae erates Arr. XX VIII.— Note on the supposed Identity of the genus Isodon of Say, with Capromys. By Tuomas Bett, ESGeiE Mian tt pe ercreye fais! c-0,0 ve 6.sioce ce eee eeeae Arr. XXIX.—Memoir upon a new genus of Fossil Poly- aria... By MEE SA07 4G sites oe a oislesn, tie sien Art. XXX.—Memoir on an American Bat, a New Species belonging to the genus Nyctinomus. By M. Isipore Grorrroy Saint-Hirarre. Page 224 227 230 231 o wie aa U wiets Sraleele Siaterena 233 Art. XXXI.—A Revision of the Family Equide. By Mr. Joun Epwarp Gray, M.G.S. ......6.~+ 2 241 Art. XX XII.—Descriptions of three new Species of Kish rus. By Proressor FIscHER...........0-- . 249 Arr. XXXIII.— A Description of Two new species of ‘Heli- cine, and Explanationof the Figures to the Monograph. By Mr. Joun Epwarp Gray, M.G.S. ........ 006: 250 Art. XXXIV.— Description of a remarkable Fossil, found in Coal Shale: with Observations. By J. D. C. Sonpammwes HPisge thsi siie's ais 0kd 2 aie oats Cisteenereo Olle Art. XXXV.—On the Structure of Melania Setosa. By Mr. Joun. Enwarp Gray, M.GS.......2.00+00008: Arr. XXXVI.—Abstract of a Monograph on a new Genus of Gasteropodous Mollusca, named Scissurella; by M. Arcipe Dessatines D’Orpiany. With Notes by Gy SOMBRE. Hail S.., \sr'elisiteaaenls ae Art. XXXVII.—Mulleria, a new Genus of reife water Bivalves, of the Family of Ostreacee, established by M. Le Baron D’ Avvewarp dE FErussac Ant. XXX VILI.— Analytical Notices of Books :— Monographia Tenthredinetarum Annales des Sciences Naturelles Gurtis’s British Entomolosyes ici, sais whines sae sieete Sowerby’s Genera of Recent and Fossil Shells..... athe} 252 253 255 265 266 CONTENTS. Page Sowerby’s Mineral Conchology ........ be ahah Wade ayant 267 De la Beche’s Selection of Geological Memoirs ...... Tbid. Arr. XX XIX.—Literary Announcements........ metabo, 268. Art. XL.—Proceedings of Learned Societies :— POR RINS OCCELE Ais Bs (o's 'clets Saline emer Ral ake avate tae wiiale 269 PRMUCETES OCCT Ss ata'y seis 0 ee laios wes Nslatiotere, Nate tmmerel avers 276 COSTAE UA SULIT ERE ot PE dartiernoimenee apes, 279 EGLO MICUL SOCTELY . = .0..< o-oo era's aaa tra Weis saver ates 280 hoyal Academy of Sciences of Paris is. odo ves S08 281 Art. XLI.—Scientific Notices :— Characters of the Cebrionid@. 064.5 ccassccevesccses 282 Cebrionide, Stirps TID. 00s 6a.8 oles ities ariseakotayatanols 283 LATHER DIORUESVICd . a's/6 5/04 e's nao he ayer = veforasieteloistebena cious Ibid. Amphitotte, a Fossil of Vegetable Origin. ........++- 284 Helix nemoralis, a Carnivorous Animal? ........+.. Ibid. PUG Y Of SHONGES (a a'ciaio's inlets ete vale omen ietaty 6. of site 280 Plesiosaurus ...ccces% paleo saleists Sas Ci RR Salsa eee ibe rity on abe Gans Whee. ee tues if ine i ONES... POT Hy ee OAs be és Coe teria oe, 4 we

| % Siva gi oe wees G ‘Sr ? > ¢ rn Ate in ‘4 A, a “i tat ts Nal a pee ie lee Zul uit hi PL eee RES 4s EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES. Puate VI,—A. Balea Tristensis: B. Balea ventricosa. See No. [. p. 61. Figures 1 to 15, Helicine ; explained in the present Number, p. 251. Prate VII.—Jig. 1. Cyprea lentiginosa. albuginosa. turdus. 1. 2. 3-—— 4. ——— arabicula, n. 4. 5. ———a 6. ie sulcidentata, 7. 20. ee arenosa, 7. 19. ——— controversa, 7. 15. 8, ——— maculata. 9. ——== pulchella, 7. 14. 10. ——-— picta. See No. I. p. 71, and No. II. p. 137. Prate VIII.—Fig. 1. Isodon Pilorides, cranium 2. — , a row of teeth. . 3. ——— , tooth of the superior jaw, exte- rior view. 4, ———., ditto, interior view. 5. ——-—, ditto, anterior side. See p. 227. 6. Zn Melania setosa. See p. 253. 8. 9. Fossil Bone. See p. 252. Prate 1X.—Fig. 1. Asinus Burchellii. 2. Hoof of ditto. 3. Hoof of Asinus Zebra. Sce p. 247. Prats X,—Epeira curvicauda. See p. 224. Puare XJ.—Nyctinomus Braziliensis. See p. 233. € Tee ee aes 4), ee a ee ; a4 thu) Bon aC s pees ‘ a’ tas hee a t. a m : 4 t p49 : ae at ay ’ 2 Fe a) on ‘ FATALE BAS a: HOUPAAAR : y os . “ 5 a NC ek 5 ee wie \ Ci ’ , y emt aeny mae “4 oe: ae. ae fl 4 e yu 4 > et Poe ey Vad in ie we t oy rete Leow, faay cath, vation pata 4 ot i, ; mies tah aa J .0k4 ear: tow bay ra iain i enteitall cok at :3 a or eee 7 OOS agictal italy ziqiD: ; Ae as OL wi einshisiss merask. 2 Sy OL ioniaag eae 18 ek ne Sores Lee POMBE RI USE. . WARE eB f p yy are | wbadaleny weeny Cee b 2 ae t ; er a3 lvadoagy eee a Se ' 5 tet LOVE hun ftaq Lo oath Fy z ‘Mino shanti daporl «ft i ae act Ip NRE, Gg temictrnrrst ; ihe ‘ “aie? . ten TORS we it Ae wigor" ear os AB on 5 _ : ene tet) ait bs con cae f age “OM ah sue ae roy ; mt ty 7 : t Ta gy soe: ~shia voltatine i gs oo ae Hits “a Oe tee , ma eg Rta Viole singe 2s aia St. eo cash See Wily YS Bay ope! oul, tee hy 54a te a ih oti pei iets VedeE RMN Scag ry aE Afi 4 Bx Bo saytta aint, ek oa F a : | Vis : ie OH : ; " ‘ ver J, + * y 7 P + ’ 7 y '; > CONTENTS. No. II]. October, 1824. Page Arr. XLII. An Inquiry into the natural Affinities of the : Laniade, or Shrikes; preceded by some Observations on the present State of Ornithology in this Country. By Wiitram Swainson, Esq. £.R.S. F.L.S. M.W.S. Wa Gee RT oferta hotel a aie 5 oie aa eitae ene cates bis ccd wie wibyee a Cech 289... Ant. XLII. Sketches in Ornithology ; or Observations on the leading Affinities of some of the more extensive groups of Birds. By N. A. Vieors, Jun. Esq. A.M. aD sa[Sare oleic) nists oe sicieseisaremccepaare iets pietehsheuslay She's > Seats 308» Art. XLIV. An Inquiry respecting the true nature of In- stinct, and of the Mental Distinction between Brute Animals and Man.—Essay II.—An Examination of the prevailing Division of the Brute Powers into Intellectual and Instinctive, as presented, in some recent publications, by the Rev. Dr. Fleming, and by M. Frederic Cuvier ; including Strictures on the Theory of Habit proposed by the latter : with Illustrations of the Specific Constitution of the Brute Mind. By Joun Oxiver Frencu, Esq. 346 Art. XLV. Monograph on the Cypreide, a Family of Tes- taceous Mollusca. By Joun Epwarp Gray, Esq. DGS eS cs woh a! Reap hes Shaads BYES 2 cease ne Peas 367 Art. XLVI. General Observations on the Anatomy of the Thorax in Insects, and on its Functions during Flight. By E. T. Bennett, F.L.S. and Member of the Zoo- logical Club of the Linnean Society ......0.eeeseee 391 Arr. XLVII. Description of an hitherto unpublished Species of Buccinum recently discovered at Cork. By E. T. Bennett, F.L.S. and Member of the Zoological Club of the Linnean: Soptelap. wa. sissies <0 \sie.c esc ices ote 398 Art. XLVIII. Observations on Melania Setosa, in reply to Mr. Gray, by Wititam Swainson, Esq. F'.R. and TS AMS er Poe eee eee ra Cc ga 399 CONTENTS. age Art. XLIX. On the vestiges of a placental Orgunization, and of an umbilicus, discovered in a very small Fetus of the Didelphis Virginiana. By M. E. Greorrroy DE DAINT=HILAIRE: 63. loca css sien 20 eo sn aie ee Art. L. Observations on the Siucbube of the Pholades. By JOHN EDwaArD GRAY, Esq. MG. ...+cccseeooeaa Arr. LI. Descriptions of some rare, interesting, or hitherto 4 uncharacterized subjects of Zoology, by N. A. Vigors, jun. Esq. M.A. F.L.S. With Figures by James Dr Canre SowEnny, Ts. FITS. bby. 5 a:b: 2 ae ee Art. LIL. Proceedings of Learned Societies :— Zoological Club of the Linnean Society......+0.++++. 418 Royal Academy of Sciences of Paris......++.++.e00+ 421 Art. LIII.—Scientific Notices :— New Species of Procellariee 6.1.6 .s.ecceeresceeceee 425 Billa Hatototden er et. sce ss «2 ote oN ase eae eee On the Genera Sigaretus and Cryptostoma .......... 427 EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES. Pirate XII.—Fig. 1. Cyprea lentiginosa. oe albuginosa. se Turdus. A, ——— arabicula, n. 4. 5. ——— sulcidentata, n. 20. 6. ——— arenosa, n. 19. 7. ——— controversa, n. 15. 8. ——— zonata, n. 53. 9. ——— pulchra, n. 14. Seen. 42, p. 380. 10. picta, n. 54. Prate XIUI.—Muscicapa Lathami, p. 410, Pirate XIV.—Anthus Richardi, p. 411. PLATE XV. hs 1. Cicindela princeps, p. 413. —— Ritchii, p. 414. 3 Lyonii, p. 414. 4. Gymnetis undulata, p. 415. 5. ———— hieroglyphica, p. 416. 6 7 mA 20 » - Macraspis clavata, p. 416. . Rutela nitescens, p. 417. Lamia V notata, id. perpulchra, p. 418. PLATE Meelis ak p. 412. CONTENTS. No. IV. January, 1825. Page Art. LIV. Some Remarks on the Nomenclature of the Gryllina of MacLeay, &c. with the Characters of a new genus in that tribe. By the Rev. Witttam Kirsy, PASE EO seis LIS viee, ois aahoteie's) bp aVe) Cea alee LSS eared A ote SO Art. LV. An Account of the unexampled dosntiuiens com- mitted by Field-Mice in the Forest of Dean in Glouces- tershire, and in the New Forest in Hampshire, during the years 1813 and 1814. Ina Letter to the late Right Hon. Str Josepu Banks, Bart. P.R.S., from the late Right Hon. Syztvesrer Doveras, Lorv Gren- UES HD Eh a1t)'o ania ahove's steies: «heist ioral ec ecccsecscncves 430 Art. LVI. Remarks on the devastation occasioned by the Hylobius abietis in Fir Plantations. By W.S. Mac Leavy, Esq. A.M. F.LS. &¢...... SOC Oe ae a 444 Art. LVII. Some Observations on the British Tipulide, together with Descriptions of the Species of Culex and Anopheles found in Britain. By James Francis SME PENS OTs Bese whee oe she aE IgE Om ts 448 Art. LVIII. Description of a new species of Lizard. By Tuomas Bet, Esq. F.L.S. ..... 06+ sae eee ae cette ASK Ant. LIX. Description of Malaconotus atro-coccineus. By Wiriuran J. Burcwert, Esq. F.L.S......00000000. 461 ~ CONTENTS. age Art. LX. On the Characters and Natural Affinities of F several New Birds from Australasia; including some Observations on the Columbide. By Wiiiram Swain- son, Esq. FR S& ESS MOS. . «oe eee 463 Arr. LXI. Observations on the Marmot of alive Toucan, now exhibited in this Country. By W.J. Broperip, Pigg FDS ete. cas veces okie CS ee ee 484 Art. LXII. Monograph on the Cypreide, a Family of Testaceous Mollusca. By Joun Epwarv Gray, Esq. MGS. sis se Ree =e eO es 20 2 - ees 489 Art. LXIII. Abstract of a Notice relating to the Atherie found in the Nile by M. Caillaud; by M. De Ferrussac ; together with a Description of a new Species of Aitheria. By G. B. Sowerey, BLS. xosins ses scalee atta 518 Art. LXIV. Reply to Mr. Swainson on Neritina Corona and Melania setosa. By Joun Enwarp Gray, Esq. MGS. 45% bbs 0h Ud FRCS oo BU eid. ball, cub tana 523 Art. LXV. Descriptions of some rare, interesting, or hither- to uncharacterized subjects of Zoology. By N. A. Vicors, jun. Esq. M.A. F.L.S. With Figures by James De Carnie Sowersy, Esq. F.LS .. 0.0.00: 526 Art. LXVI. Description of the Rimau-Danan of the inhabitants of Sumatra, anew species of Felis discovered in the Forests of Bencoolen, by Sir T. Sram¥Forp Rarrzes, late Lieutenant. Governor of Fort Marl- borough, &c. &c. &c. By Tuomas Horsrrexp, M.D. EE. & G..So0., See wos. ook oe Soe A pwiwgth (542 Ant. LXVII. Descriptions of some new Brazilian species of the Family of Laniade. By Grorce Sucn, Esq. F.L.S., of Magdalen Hall, Oxford ......0. 2060000. - 554 Art. LXVIII. Description of the Vespertilio Pygmaus, a new species recently discovered in Devonshire by Dr. BREACH 0530s Jan eres se Gok Nhe ECC. . keer 559 Art. LXIX. Analytical Notices of Books :— The Transactions of the Linnean Society of London... 564 Transactions of the Geological Society ......000200- . 567 CONTENTS. Curtis’s British Entomology ...... F a Sowerby’s (J.D C.) Mineral Pa el sual hs eis Sowerby’s (G. B.) Genera of Shells ... eoveee eevee ee ° Temminck’s Monographies de Mammalogie ........- 5 Annales des Sciences Naturelles....ceecceseeere bie _ Memoires de la Societé Linnéenne du Calvados .... Art. LXX. Proceedings of Learned Societies :— WROGIEL SOGICEO) oi atonwieloueshct Giakectuues seomve(s Linnean Society Soological Club of the toa Society. Geological Soviety. i... [voc ee ce Royal Academy of Sciences of Paris... Art. LX XI.—Scientific Notices :— Radiaria—Alecto—Comatula........ sal Bc obake, ashe akin tormis Ornithology... Mytilus Crenatus, naturalized in Porismouth Har ee 590 Addition to Mr. Broderip’s Communication ......... 591 Index veeeeeneeeee@ eeeeescoee seve 589 ibid EXPLANATION OF PLATES. Pirate XVII.—Uromastyx Acanthinurus, p. 457. Prate X VIII.—Malaconotus atro-coccineus, p. 461. Puare XIX.—Attheria tubifera, p. 518. Prare XX.—TIig. 1. Panageus tomentosus, p. 537. - Necrodes osculans, ib. . Onthophagus igneus, p. 538. Mnematium Ritchii, p. 539. - Phaneus Kirbii, mas. p. 539. foem. ib. Euchlora MacLeayana, p. 540. . Pelidnota cyanipes, p. 541. OH IMS om S to Rutela sumptuosa, p. 542. Prater XXI.—Felis Macrocelis, p. 542. Pxiare XXII.—Buccinum Humphreysianum, No. III, p. 398. . Vespertilio Pygmeus, p. 559. INTRODUCTION. Tue principal objects of the ZooLocicaL JouRNAL have already been stated in the Prospectus which preceded its publication, but it may be well to recapitulate them in this short introduction to our first number, which we have at Tength the honour of submitting to our-subscribers. Some apology, however, may first be necessary for the delay which has taken place in its appearance. When we origi- nally announced it for the first day of the present year, we were confident that it would be in our power to redeem our pledge, but circumstances occurred that compelled us, how- ever unwillingly, to postpone the publication to the Ist of March. It is not necessary to dwell on the utility of works of this nature, the store-houses as they may be called of the natural sciences, where a multitude of new and interesting facts are daily preserved, which might otherwise remain in the bo- soms of their discoverers, or only be partially dispersed through small circles by the vague and often inaccurate me- thod of oral communication. ‘The usefulness of periodical journals is indeed amply attested by the numbers that weekly, monthly, and quarterly issue from the press; the want of a journal exclusively devoted to Zoology in all its branches, Iv Introduction. by the fact that amongst all those just alluded to there is not one, at least in England, of this class.—Pudet hac oppro- bria nobis et dict potuisse,—we will not finish the line— the potuisse refelli we hope will be found in the pre- sent work; and that it may be we look with confidence to our fellow countrymen and to learned foreigners for the benefit of their assistance in our arduous undertaking. Without such assistance indeed, neither ourselves nor, we think, any other set of men would be bold enough to enter on the task—for the undivided attention of many would be in- competent to it; and even were it otherwise, undivided attention is in the power of few—certainly not in that of either of the conductors of this journal. But it is time to particularize the objects of it, from which our friends and readers, and the scientific world at large, will understand the course we mean to pursue, and the nature of the aids we solicit from their liberality and patronage. Original Memoirs and Monographs will take the prece- dence in our pages. The subjects of Zoological Classifica- tion—Comparative Anatomy—particular Classes, Families, Genera, and Species—Animal Chemistry—Paleontography and Nomenclature are amongst the most important. The first is obviously dependant on a sufficient knowledge of the structure of animal bodies, and the analogies that may be traced in this respect from the least to the most perfect, whence Comparative Anatomy, on which that knowledge depends, claims a very high rank in Zoological researches. We particularly request our correspondents, foreign and domestic, to keep this subject constantly in view, convinced that no arrangement can be sound and stable, which is not founded on that important science. It has, at length, in great measure rescued one branch of natural history from the confusion and absurdity in which, whilst the structure of the habitation only and not that of the inhabitant was considered, its arrangements were involved. Conchology is Introduction. v now taken from the insulated post it formerly occupied; and restored to its proper rank. The views of Adanson have been continued, extended and improved by a succession of labourers in this department of science, and the valuable facts they have established will hand down their names with honour to posterity. Much confusion unfortunately still exists in another re- spect, not only in Zoology, but in every branch of natural history, and must continue till some better principles of Nomenclature shall, by general consent, be adopted in this and the sister sciences. Not only are many of the terms em- ployed radically defective and at variance with all sound rules of grammar and etymology, and chosen, one would think, in some instances from the worst words of the worst writers, obsolete and cacophonous, but the student is per- plexed by the intolerable multitude of unnecessary syno- nyms with which half the known subjects of these sciences are overwhelmed. Arbitrary changes are too often made in names long since fixed to particular objects by their original discoverers, with no apparent view, but to gratify a silly personal vanity; ‘ that’s villainous, and shows a pitiful ambition in the fool that uses it.” The Zoological Journal will always be open to memoirs on this subject, and we are confident that incalculable benefit will accrue to the science of natural history in general, from dispassionate discussions on the true principles of Nomenclature. Entire translations or abstracts (as their importance may require) of foreign papers, which either contain new matter, or are rendered interesting by the relation of remarkable facts, or the developement of new views connected with Zoology, will follow the original Memoirs and Monographs, and our readers will thus be regularly furnished with detailed accounts of the most important discoveries made in the science by their fellow labourers on the continents both of the Old and New World. The proceedings of leamed vi Introduction. societies will succeed the translations, and facts of minor importance, but still of interest, will be given in the notices at the end of each number. One subject remains to be mentioned, viz. the Analyses of New Publications. In executing this part of our duty, one sole principle will be our guide—strict impartiality and _justice—no - private friendships, no partial leanings shall induce us to praise a bad work, nor any invidious motives to withhold our commendations from a good one. We may -err in our judgment, but it shall always be the result of a _conscientious conviction of its truth. Some of our readers may perhaps think that the subject of the paper which stands at the head of our first number is not strictly connected with the object of our journal. If there be any such, we trust they will nevertheless thank us for laying it before them, from the pleasure we are certain they must de- rive from its perusal. A most difficult subject is treated by Mr. French, we think, with singular skill and ingenuity ; but even this consideration would not have induced us to give it to the public, had it not appeared to us to be strictly consistent with the plan of our work. Its object is. to develope the operations of mind, if we may so express ourselves, in the brute creation, from the habits and actions of several of its members. It necessarily enters into the detail of facts purely Zoological and in the highest degree interesting—and if the main question be metaphysical, it is from natural his- yry alone that its ingenious author derives his arguments in ussing it. J" yWith respect to one of the translations in the present »number, it will be seen that the inferences deduced by M. Oalier, have been considerably invalidated, if not overthrown »y one of our coadjutors. We have thought it right, how- ‘ver, to present the entire memoir to our readers, notwith- sanding our conviction that the author’s conclusions are eroneous. Next to establishing a truth, it is important, to correct error, and it would not be fair to the learned Introduction. vil foreigner himself to give our comments without prefixing his text to them. ‘The importance too, which the learned editors of the Journal containing the original memoir, attach to M. Odier’s experiments, and the conclusion he draws from them, is an additional motive with us to trans- Jate it verbatim ; and independently of that consideration, although we differ from him as to the real nature of the ca- rapace of insects, &c. he has given us in other respects, much new and curious information concerning it. We shall add but little more. To insist on the import- ance of Natural History were to waste our own and our reader’s time 1:1 proving what no rational being ever doubted. The contemplation of the works of the creation, necessarily leads the mind to that of the Creator himself—and the more intimate our acquaintance with the former, the deeper and more devoted will be our adoration of the great author of all things! ‘ ‘The undevout astronomer is mad* ;”’ not more so than the undevout naturalist. ‘The order, harmony, and gra- dations which the one traces in the planetary system, the other finds in the inhabitants of that part of it, where it has pleased his Creator to appoint his station. He sees the beautiful con- nection that subsists throughout the whole scheme of ani- mated nature. He traces, from the bulk and strength of the massive elephant to the almost invisible structure of the minutest insect, a mutual dependency, that convinces him nothing is made in vain. He feels too, that at the head of all this system of order and beauty, pre-eminent in the do- minion of his reason, stands Man. He sees himself the favoured creature of his Creator, and the finest energies of his soul are roused to gratitude and devotion. * Young. it Hye * hee) ole o ~ ; Uh nikon eis Kania wtia erie Fervilaj er dacesixinats eh: iy sn mig! gilt Haidiw ¢do) sornhinoqent oll Tt pone lunigite ‘add quinininoas in i vant Meizrlonoo “ei? ‘bus singnrieqes a’ sak ib i aster ot ay teow ovisGar bad Weihn” rAd goed zi Nnditmobiznes sad Io yunshnaysber me ani . ‘nog ME ED peg tg ss, i tno inde eet sevig Bait Hi aed at ant 0 : at atti NaoAds rots tty aL so ae ‘pete “fori sate Tea BA rerny fad Bint : : a0 fried fers THO Senor ‘saw visi iti inacas to ” 5% rides ponent STP ART . ve sii immed gift Yo’ elaaer ond ts noifaliy riot 1109 et . “aie ila 2 so ad = aed BE hs & ‘ cm res pet r ith see oped oo a : Bee a ) Boga a hace beget a % ne noe * 28 ; | sas Ha aii Daa rans Sone ia Laat | 9 Tou a ps pms iss i ‘ety oni wigan er Ase Cone ott: Hoard 29 oF ofthis Mt US ? i Sod Reiigrans 3 x ais vier daca 1088 40) ihe Wa SRK AIAN ORINICNL AGEN: , ai qgonvone Vw wil oan tral hamed ua esis Spleen, pcre /y haientiite hae, ae )hte vowel oe oh mies, priialqensdaos. ih sot bei iat THE ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL, March, 1824. Art.I. An Inquiry respecting the True Nature of Instinct, and of the Mental Distinction between Brute Animals and Man ; introductory to a Series of Essays, explanatory of the various faculties and actions of the former, which have been considered to result from a degree of Moral Feeling, and of Intellect. By Joun Oxuiver Frencu, Esq. THE mighty and various powers of man are wonderfully imaged forth in the sensible objects that surround him; and, in the march of science, such additional evidences are continually elicited, in confirmation of this important truth, that we may perhaps be war- ranted in giving a philosophical assent to the sentiment of the poet,— That for the Instructed, time will come When they shall meet no object but may teach Some acceptable lesson to their minds Of human sufferings, or of human joy, For then shall all things speak of Man. ‘W orpswortn.. Nature’s wide domain indeed exhibits a boundless theatre, in which moral and intellectual agency is ever active and employed ; —strikingly manifesting its presence to the contemplative mind, in even the most common operations, the results of which have been Vor, I. A 2 An Inquiry respecting denominated fixed laws: for what are these but the operations of such agency producing effects for particular ends and purposes, which ends and purposes are evidently intended to be subservient to the application of the powers of the human mind, in the adaptation of all lower things to the purposes suggested by man’s reason, inall the various products of the arts and sciences. These rise like anew creation from the comparatively chaotic parts of Nature, and their production is strictly comprehended within the universal plan of the Divine Artificer, who well knows how much to do for man, and what to leave within man’s province, for the proper exercise of the faculties with which he endows him; and to aid him in which exercise, Nature is thus made to unfold a rich and fertile picture of moral and intellectual qualities. It would appear that traces of the delineation here alluded to might be found throughout the varied products of Nature; but in the ariimal kingdom we find a broad and certain basis for induction, ‘—the world of instinct, in which the various moral.and intellec- tual powers of man are symbolically reflected, as in a mirror, even to his entrauce into a glorious immortality.* In this great division of the lower,creation, the qualities of foresight, industry, integrity, justice and order, sociability and mutual aid and protec- tion, self-devotion and magnanimity, are imaged forth with an astonishing fidelity and touch of truth: and in a manner no less astonishing and faithful are displayed the opposites of all these,— improvidence, idleness, dishonesty, injustice and disorder, unso- ciableness and mutual disregard, selfishness and cowardice. To the contemplative mind, final causes natural and moral are every where multiplied to the view, in the innumerable parts of the great machinery of Creation. How forcibly, in numerous in- stances, are the destroying passions depicted ; and how finely does the picture set off the relative beauty of their opposites—the social yirtues, which in the instincts of animals are not less faith- fully delineated. - This circumstance is really so striking, that, (if such an enquiry could be entered into in a philosophical aieectaeen we might be tempted to ask, whether these passions of inordinate self-love, * See Kirby and Spence’s Introduction to Entomology, vol. i, p. 73, et seq. the true nature of Instinct. 3 giving birth to offensive violence, are not thus exhibited so vit affect the outward senses, through the medium of. ferocious: ani mals, in order to furnish us with the strongest possible perceptions of the nature of such passions in ourselves. But the créature’ themselves are incapable of conceiving any thing respecting the nature of the moral and intellectual qualities which they thus exhibit,—to them virtue and vice are nothing : they are indeed but the passive mediums in which those qualities are represented and illustrated; in the language of God in Nature, addressed to thé human mind; and they seem to be but as types of things—of thé explity powers, moral and intellectual, which fill the ‘mind of man, who alone is an inhabitant of the moral and intellectual world, as he is of the natural world. Man was called by the ancients a Microcosm, or little world,— that is, a being whose moral and intellectual powers are represented in the subjects of nature, the utilities and ends of which latter, are reflected in him, and, as a final cause, take their rise and origin from him, in the scale of creation: and judging from all that has been said upon this subject, there can be little doubt, that as all natural things are subservient as means to things moral and intellectual; so the former, as much as possible, would seem to be made the emblems and representatives in which the latter may be contemplated. I have been led to offer these remarks on the final causes of lower existence, because I consider that they are so connected with the question of instinct, that, taken ina general point of view, they help to determine what sort of limited and subservient powers: the brute creation may be expected, a priori, to possess. The above idea it appears very necessary to keep in mind, to prevent us from assigning to brutes, mental attributes above the ‘ sphere of their common nature, and as leading us to investigate those causes which alone appear properly and rationally adequate to the production of the wonderful system and order observable in their actions. It is from failing to retain steadily in the mind’s view this necessary leading principle, that we are led into erroneous conclusions respecting the powers of the brute mind, and the ope- rative means by which the actions of brutes are effected ; which so A2 4 .. An Inquiry respecting much resemble the operations of human intellect, that as before observed, they may be said to represent and illustrate them. On this account considerable difficulty has been found in draw- ing a distinct line between the conscious discriminative powers of brutes, and those of human rationality ; and in affixing a true character to the mental principles in which the actions of the brute creation originate. Thus in considering the nature of the essential principles of brutes, philosophers have diverged into two extremes of opinion, each opinion being the result of an opposite and partial train of reasoning. One class, by referring all the essential powervia “ brute action to the unassisted conscious mind of the creature, haz, ascribed to the brute creation faculties of understanding and rea- soning of the same kind with, and only differing in degree from, the rationality of the human mind.* The other class, considering the high nature of the essential powers themselves from which brute action appears to proceed, and to which they may indeed be traced, —powers which are so far exalted in intelligence above the common nature of the creatures whose actions exhibit externally their effects, as to lead the mind to look above the sphere of the crea- ture’s consciousness for a solution of their origin,—have considered that the phenomena of brute action can be no otherwise explained, than by referring it to the immediate operation of the divine energy. The opinion expressed by Addison, who, following in the steps of other philosophers, says that he was impressed with the belief that the actions of brutes originate in immediate impression from the first Mover, and ‘‘ the divine energy acting in the creatures, +” has indeed been deemed unphilosophical ; and, it must be admit- ted, not without propriety, if this sentiment be taken to mean that brutes are mere automata. But although the penetrating mind of Addison obtained but an indistinct perception of the subject, his - hypothesis is undoubtedly deserving of attention. He clearly saw * Helvetius, De l’Esprit. tom. i, p. 2, et sq. edit. 1758. New System of Nat. Hist. of Animals, by Peter Hill, Edinburgh, 179%. The author maintains, ‘that the laws of analytic reasoning do not justify the opinion that the brutes act on any occasion absolutely without design.” t Spectator, nos. 121, 122, the true nature of Instinct. 5 that such adaptation of means to particular ends, such won- derful manifestation of design, could not possibly be the result of organization, as maintained by the Cartesian philosophy ; but jn rejecting the latter hypothesis, he overlooked the inferior kind of volition and discrimination, which appears to be included in the natural consciousness of the creature, and which no doubt consti- tutes its sense of life and existence; and pronounced the whole of their actions to be the 7mmediate operation of the Divine Energy : not reflecting, that such immediate operation must, of necessity, by rendering the creatures perfect automata, deprive them of all consciousness whatever; and thus destroy that sense of life and existence derived from the class of conscious powers which it is evident they possess, and which manifestly constitutes the enjoy- ment of sentient being. Now it seems demonstrable that brutes are possessed of a limited conscious discrimination and determination ; which discrimination and determination do not however embrace what is either moral, intellectual, or rational, as regards the consciousness of the crea- ture: but as their actions involve in them causes or powers that are evidently of a moral, intellectual, and rational order, and which powers evidently act upon the mental constitution of brutes by im- pressing and guiding their conscious powers of discrimination and determination to action, according to the purposes or final causes of their being ;—it may therefore be justly inferred that the Divine Energy does in reality act, not immediately, but mediately, or through the medium of moral and intellectual influences, upon the nature or consciousness of the creature, in the production of the various, and, in many instances, truly wonderful actions which they perform. If it be asked by what intermediate agency the operations of brutes are thus directed ;—I reply that it is generally admitted, by a large class of mankind, atleast, that superior (yet intermediate) powers of some kind, are in actual connexion with the human mind,—though not leading it blindly, as might be supposed to be the case with regard to brutes ;—and if this be admitted, there re- mains no reasonable ground for denying the connexion and influence of similar powers, (whatever they may be), operating upon and dis- 6 - An Inquiry respecting posing to certain ends the conscious natures of brutes ; which na- tures, if we suppose them destitute of moral and intellectual con- sciousness, have need of the operation of such powers. to direct them. The phcenomena of brute action, indeed, are inexplicable upon any other grounds; but these once admitted, there appears to be nothing in the whole circle of instinctive operations which may not be satisfactorily accounted for. I will not even venturea Suggestion as to the nature of the intermediate superior powers here alluded to; but their agency, I repeat, is plainly manifest in the conduct of brutes. __As an instance illustrative of this remark, I need only mention the surprising attention of the neuter class of most of those insects which live in society, in the education of the young ; an office for which it would naturally be supposed they would be wholly unfitted by the privation of the sexual character, and the consequent absence of the parental stimulus.* But. the end is to be ac- complished ; and the animal is supplied with an inclination to accomplish it, by which it is led to the means; being impelled thereto by a moral and intellectual energy operating above its own consciousness, and which it would in vain endeavour to estimate ; although with respect to its own immediate voluntary powers it may be in perfect freedom, and even have, as indeed it unques-= tionably has, a subordinate consciousness of the acts it performs, accompanied with a sensation of delight, asa consequence of their performance. Certain it is, from the wondrous indications of moral design, intellect, and science, discoverable in the actions of brute animals, that we must either suppose them gifted with innate conscious, moral, intellectual, and scientific faculties, and thus with those very powers which form the distinguishing character- istics of human rationality, which is howeyer totally at variance with our observation of their general nature ;—or we must allow: them to possess only a subordinate consciousness and discrimina-. tion determinable to natural objects ; and oyerruled and directed by powers or agencies operating in them above the sphere or stream, of their own proper consciousness, and which powers or agencies must be ofa moral, intellectual, and scientific order : thus that brutes, * Kirby and Spence’s Entomol. vol. i, p. 365. ig the true nature of Instinct. 7 are’ governed by such agencies, good and evil, but under the controk of Providence ; and that such agencies act by impressions upon their conscious nature, but unperceived by it in a moral or intellectual sense ;—effecting such operaticn by means of connate inclinations implanted in their nature, and disposing them to receive the im- pressions ; and which inclinations appear to constitute the ground or basis upon which is formed that lower Species of consciousness, volition, and discrimination, which seems the proper attribute of the brute animal. ni Upon these principles, the mixed natures of some animals are satisfactorily explained ;—as in the instance of the Phoca Ursina, the males of which species manifest the most singular tenderness towards their’ young progeny, and at the same time a savage and. persecuting disposition towards their females.* These epposite and dissimilar propensities are not indicative of any moral principles that can be ascribed, otherwise than in an apparent sense, to the’ creature; as will be distinctly shewn in the progress of our _ Inquiries. os Viewed, then, in this light, and explained in this manner, Pro= yidence is conspicuous in the operations of brute nature ; and it is but reasonable to conclude that the Divine Being does indeed operate, by unseen mediums, of whatever kind they be, as the Great Regulator of the whole. Facts have undoubtedly occurred to exemplify the operation of such agency in special interferences of Providence, through the medium of the brute mind; of which the following well authenti- cated instance must be regarded as a very striking one. At Ditchley, near Blenheim, now the seat of Viscount Dillon, but formerly of the Lees, Karls of Lichfield, is a portrait of Sir Henry Lee, by Jansen, with that of a mastiff dog which saved his life. One’ of Sir Henry’s servants had formed the design of assassinating his master, and robbing the house ; but on the night he had intended to perpetrate it, the dog, for the first time, followed Sir Henry up stairs, took his station under his bed, and could not be driven’ thence : in the dead of the night, the servant, not knowing the dog’ was there, entered the room to execute his diabolical purpose 3 * Bingley; Animal Biog. vol, i, p. 193. 8 An Inquiry respecting but waz instantly seized by the dog, and being secured, confessed his intentions. In a corner of the picture are these lines: But in my dog, whereof I made no store, I find more love than those I trusted more. What an instance is this to shew the operation of a superior moral and intellectual power disposing the inclinations and per- ceptions of an animal, for a stated end; while the natural voli- tions of the creature were at the same time exercised by it in free- dom, towards the furtherance of this end. Whether we suppose the immediate means made use of to impress the animal’s conscious mind, to be that of an ideal imagery or anticipated view of the intended act, with itsaccompaniments, the darkness, the silence, &c. &c.—and that when it really did begin to happen—when the man actually entered the room at midnight, the animal seized him as described ;—or in whatever way we regard it as having been effected, the operation of an influential power is most unequivocal. We cannot acconnt for this cool and dispassionate magnanimity which renders the brute animal unmindful of itself, while extend- ing its protection, and this with discrimination of circumstances, to man, unless by a directing energy, unseen by itself, acting upon its mind, and disposing it to use its immediate conscious faculties in operating according to a particular dictate; the animal as to all its conscious faculties and bodily powers being left in perfect freedom, although thus overruled by apresiding power, of which it is totally unconscious. We cannot otherwise account for the apparently complex nature of brutes “which,” as beautifnlly observed by Addison, “ thus rises above reason, and falls infinitely short of it,” and which ‘ cannot be accounted for by any properties of matter, and at the same time works after so odd a manner, that one cannot think it the faculty (as regards the creature, he might have added) of an intellectual] being.” According to the view above taken then, the brute, within the sphere of its consciousness, is in perfect freedom ; thus it is by no means an automaton, but gifted with a subordinate freedom of vo- lition, discrimination, and action, beneath the moral and intellec- tual sphere by which it is ruled and governed. the true nature of Instinct. 3) The foregoing, however, it may perhaps be said, is an extra- ordinary instance of the actions of instinct. In reply to this, the question may be asked,—are not the most common and ordinary instances of instinctive action equally illustrative of an intelligence superior to the conscious faculties of the creature ; which intelli- gence must therefore operate upon its conscious perception, and constitute, as it were, the primum mobile, actuating and impelling it to the most reasonable and circumstantial course of action that can be conceived, for arriving at the fulfilment of the ends for which it is brought into existence ? Does the spider in the curious act of weaving its web think within itself and say, ‘I will extend my threads in this order, and connect and tie them together transverse- ly, to secure my web from the rude vibrations of the air; and in the terminations which constitute the central point of my web, I will provide myself a seat, where I may sit and watch what hap- pens, and be ready to seize and envelope every fly that is caught in my trap ?—Or does the bee reason and say to itself, ¢ I will take my flight to such a field, where I know there is plenty of flowers, and I will gather wax and honey from them, and of the wax [ will build contiguous cells in a particular arrangement and form, and so disposed, that I and my companions may have free ingress and egress, and in process of time may lay up a large store of honey, sufficient for our necessities during the approaching winter, that we may not starve; and I will help to support, like a good citizen, the political and economical prudence of the community ?” We cannot surely conceive any such process of reflection as this to pervade the consciousness of the creatures, although their acts evidently include it in some way or other; and this I think amounts toa full proof, that reasoning is in no case the effect of instinct, as has been supposed by some philosophers ;* for it determines that the voluntary powers of animals may be most forcibly directed to a particular course of action, without any reasonable perception, either of the act or of its consequences, on the part of the animals themselves ; and shews that the instinct of avimals is governed by the influence of an intelligence, (acting in this case according to an uniform mode or fixed law,) which cannot be ascribed to the animals themselves ; and which evidently acts upon them above * Smellie, in his Philosophy of Natural History, vol. i, p. 145, asserts the reasoning faculty to be ** necessary result of instinct.” 10 An Inquiry respecting the sphere of their proper consciousness. The same arguments are applicable to those cases, in which animals appear to act more immediately from the exigency of circumstances, that in these also they are similarly directed ; as in the case of the ostrich, an ap- parently stupid bird, which, in Senegal, where the heat is great, sits only by night when the cooluess of the air would chill the eggs; and in the case of parent birds, when their nestlings are confined iu cages, or tied to the nest ; in which exigency, the old ones prolong their care, and continue to supply them with food, beyond the accustomed period.* It thus appears clearly evident, I think, that animals do not act with a view to consequences, from their own proper consciousness; but that whenever they do so act, it is from a dictating energy operating above the sphere of their consciousness, and disposing them so to do: that the busiuess of mental analysis and extraction, is performed for them, as it were, in every instance in which they appear to exhibit proofs of it; and that properly speaking, there is nothing of design attributable to brutes in their actions, but merely a subordinate voluntary princi- ple, and discriminative perception, which may be termed natural, to distinguish it from what is moral, intellectual, und scientific ; to which latter principles alone design can properly be referred. Uf the appearances of design in the animals be taken as proofs of such design being proper to them, we must be forced to admit that they are possessed of moral, intellectaal, and scientific re- jflection ; but we might, upon this principle, argue the same thing of the plant, which when placed in a cellar where but a partial light is admitted, turns itself towards the ray ;—namely, that as there is the appearance of design in the action, we must therefore attribute design to the subject in which we perceive its effects, and thus elevate the vegetable to the intellectual sphere: and we should actually do this, did we not stop short to consider the adequacy of the apparent agent to the production of the effect as we behold it performed. * A few years since a pair of sparrows which had built in the thatch roof of a house at Poole, were observed to continue their regular visits to the nest long after the time when the young birds take flight. This unusual circumstance continued throughout the year 3 and in the winter, a gentleman who had all along observed them, determined on investigating its cause. He therefore mounted a ladder, and found one of the young ones detained a prisoner, by means of a piece of string or worsted which formed part of the nest, having become accidentally twisted round its leg. Being thus incapacitated for pro- curing its own sustenance, it had been fed by the continued exertions of its parents. B, the true nature of Instinct. 1] It becomes necessary then to establish a test whereby the operation of the moral, intellectual, and scientific powers here alluded to, may: be ascertained ; and whereby the line of demar- cation may be distinctly drawn between man. and brute. This test, I conceive, is included in the following propositions ; vize \st, That moral qualities do not become objective in the minds of brutes ; or, that the moral actions which they perform are not re« flected upon or contrived by them as such ; thus that they possess no moral consciousness, and consequently that no moral design can be attributed to them ; and therefore that so much of moral design as appears conspicuous in their actions must be the effect of moral powers or energies acting upon them in a region of their minds above the sphere of their proper consciousness. 2nd, That intellectual and scientific qualities do not become objective in the minds of brutes; or, that the intellectual and scientific actions which they perform, are not reflected upon or contrived by them as such; thus that they possess no intellectual or scientific consciousness, and consequently that no intellectual or scientific design can be attributed to them: and therefore that so much of intellectual or scientific design as appears conspicuous in their actions, must be the effect of intellectual and scientific powers or energies, acting upon them in a region of their minds above the sphere of their proper consciousness. leh Admiring and respecting as I do the endeavours of all who are engaged in the promotion of philosophic enquiries, I cannot but think, that in the particular subject before us, too much has been done to confound the natures of man and brute, and to separate’ both from the Fountain of their existence. Man is what he is, and’ derives his superiority over the brute creation, from the circum=, stance that all things whatever become morally and scientifically’ objective to him; and the brute is what he is, and derives his: inferiority, from the total absence of this distinguished and en- nobling faculty. It is true that many specious arguments may be: and have been advanced to prove that the brutes participate in human rationality, in kind, if not in degree ; but the ends which their natures are evidently destined to fulfil, would be, one might | 12 An Inquiry respecting imagine, alone sufficient to refute the supposition. For it is but reasonable to conclude, that the conscious powers of the creature will be according to the ends of its existence ; and as these ends are in the brute creation neither moral nor scientific, but purely natural, and, as regards themselves, only subservient to’ what is moral and scientific, it thence would follow that they are not possessed in themselves of any moral, intellectual, or scientific conscious powers ;—and are therefore merely natural agents of a. secondary class, in which such powers are exhibited. I proceed to consider the first of the foregoing propositions. When we investigate the many and surprising instances in which the operations of the brute creation imply: moral intention, reflec- tion, and contrivance, we are at no loss to account for the opinion of that class of philosophers, who have attributed the mental inferiority of brutes to the mere want of adequate bodily organs ; nevertheless, the intellectual consciousness of man shrinks from the acknowledgment that in one common principle of life originate the actions of man and brute; and that brutes as to their mental constitution are thus, as it were, ‘* human imps lopt off from the common stock of intellect and rationality.’ There is something which seems powerfully to oppose the sentiment of sharing those _ high endowments with creatures of so inferior a nature; and which irresistibly leads us seriously to examine the arguments, which may be offered to prove that moral and intellectual powers reign over the conscious perception of the brute, and guide it to its proper exercise of those lower faculties, which it is left in freedom to use. The bee, we say, is a perfect political moralist, with respect to its actions, which evince the strictest attention to the principles of order and economy, for the purposes of the establish- ment and preservation of a community ; yet it is totally ignorant and unconscious of the very principles which it is so assiduous in the practice of ;—not a ray of moral perception or consciousness, can be attributed to it iu a proper sense; it is on the contrary totally destitute of the means of discerning or reflecting upon the nature or order of the ends it is instrumental in accomplishing, through the medium of its subordinate voluntary perceptions and powers,— Although it is iv the habit of exercising the mest accurate the true nature of Instinct. 13 science and means, for the fulfilment of these ends, it yet cannot look down with an approving or disapproving perception upen the region or sphere of its natural powers; it evidently has no perception of any moral superiority in itself over the most vulgar worm that crawls. But if brute creatures were capable of moral consciousness, they would be capable of elevation in the scale of being ; and this little insect, the bee, judging from its actions, would, were it capable of that species of consciousness, not only rank above most of the larger classes of animals, but would, on the score of fidelity and integrity, put human nature to the blush. oof Were it not that much has been said in favour of the alledged moral consciousness of brutes, it might perhaps be impertinent to proceed further in the endeavour to disprove it; but so strong are appearances in its favour, that, although we deny the affirma- tive in the abstract, by an unequivocal assent to the proposition, that brutes are not accountable beings; yet we are too ready to admit it in particular instances, in which we are wont to ascribe a moral consciousness to the particular moral action we see per- formed by au animal. . There is a strong tendency to mistake the cause instrumental, for the cause principal, in this.as in other cases; by which we are insensibly led. to assign the sum total of © the attribute to the visible agent, without stopping to consider further of the matter. Thus gratitude, which is a moral quality in man, is thought to be moral also in the dog ; but surely no one, upon mature consideration of the subject, will imagine that the dog reflects on the inclination or desire he feels to act ina manner which we view as grateful; and that he is pleased with the survey and reflection ;—that the moral quality of his actions becomes objective to him ;—and yet this is absolutely necessary in order to constitute a moral consciousness ; for to effect this, it is not only necessary that the action be outwardly or in effect moral, but that this moral.action be reflected upon as such, in order that its moral quality may be thus perceived and_ felt. Moral consciousness can only be produced by the moral quality of the action becoming vdjective—by its being reflected upon from a superior eminence, and.in a superior light,—by a soul -within 14 An Inquiry respecting and above the lower, animal, or natural mind. But that brutes do not possess this higher conscious faculty, or soul, is made evident by this ;—that if a particular individual of a species did possess it, such individual would be necessarily raised by it, as to its nature ; which does not in any case occur. Thus, with respect to the gratitude and fidelity of the dog, no greater ap- parent moral sagacity can be exercised by any animal; yet being totally unable to contemplate his gratitude or fidelity in the abstract, as objects of a superior perception and consciousness, those virtues are to him as if they existed not :—to man alone this moral consciousness is proper, to the animal it is absolutely a non-entity ; he is not in the smallest degree more moral on ac- count of his apparent moral qualities, for they are indeed only apparently his own, because they do not reach down, if I may be allowed the expression, to the seat of his proper consciousness ;— but consist. in powers or energies which act above it : ‘he possesses an apparent moral sagacity, but without any moral consciousness or perception concerning it. To make this plain by an example: the dog, if he saves his master from drowning, or preserves his life in any more remarkable manner, such as that ii the instance we have before related, reflects not upon any moral nobleness or disinte= restedness in the action; he is not at all the more refined for having performed an action, which, morally considered, would tend to raise his nature ; on the contrary, he lives on as before, like the rest of his canine brethren, in no respect more elevated in the scale of being; and yet it is certain that in this action his highest natural powers of proper volition, and mental dis- crimination and comparison, which we may term moral sagacity, have been brought into full exercise. But it will perhaps be objected, that animals experience delight in the exercise of moral qualities as such; the dog, for instance, in gratitude. I answer, that every animal must necessarily have a delight annexed to that exercise of its powers by which it fulfils the end of its being ; and the dog, as the natural guardian of man, has natural inclinations implanted in him, for the purpose of render= ing him such ; but his delight in the exercise of the inclinations, even when they are directed to moral acts, is purely natural, and the true nature of Instinct. 15 in no wise moral ; for, as already observed, no one in this case will imagine that the dog cither reflects upon his gratitude, or is pleased with it asa moral quality. On the contrary, it is plaia that the animal’s delight is solely owing to its conscious mind being determined to the exercise of its natural qualities or inclina- tions, which are those of. morally unconscious obedience and friends ship to man; this being the end for which he is created. The horse, who in his aptitude for war discovers a quality neces< sary to render him instrumental in redressing the injuries of man, is characterised as an emulous and a generous animal; yet neither generosity nor emulation, considered as moral qualities, are_objects of reflection to him; if they were, miserable indeed would be the fate of the devoted charger, whose latter existence is spent in the metamorphosis of a poor, patient, unpitied hack. But in the adorable economy of the Creator, it is provided that the sufferings of this noble animal shall be natural merely: he is incapable of being made conscious by reflection, either of the generosity, the emulation, or the pride, which his actions may have exhibited ¢ although he has shewn them all, they have not become objective tu him, inasmuch as he is unfurnished with a morally conscious soul, by which alone this could be effected ; and it is happy for him that neither glory nor emulation can be attributed to him, otherwise than as the unconscious subject in which those high qualities are exhibited. The mutual fidelity between the sexes, observable in doves and other birds, forms a distinguished feature in moral instinct ; yet we cannot suppose that the virtue of chastity or of conjugal fidelity is at all intended by the creature, or attributable to it; altheugh ifs actions are precisely the same as if such moral end were contem- plated and intended by it: the polygamous species, indeed, have a claim equally as good as the monogamous, to the virtue of chas- tity, as far as regards their own conscious nature. But surely there must be moral powers which act upon and guide the natures of animals in order to produce these effects, while the creature is accessary, in apparent freedom, and unconscious of the power thus exerted on it; the wonderful exhibition of conjugal and social affections in some species of marine animals, in the Trichechi Bo- 16 An Inquiry respecting reales, for instance, is altogether superior to what can be explained upon any other principles ;—they will die in protecting their mates, and each other. In their manners they are peaceable and harmless, bearing the strongest attachment to each other ; but when attacked, some will strive to overset the boat, by going beneath it; others fling themselves on the rope of the hook by which their comrade is held, and endeavour to break it; while others again make efforts to wrench the instrument out of the body of their wounded com- panion : none desert him, but persist in their courageous efforts for his rescue, even to the last! Their attachment to their mates, is, if possible, still more astonishing, and cannot be contemplated without exciting the most vivid sympathy and admiration. It is indeed the most perfect lesson of fidelity and heroic deyotion*. If in this case we could suppose the creatures capable of reflecting upon the nature of their actions, which are the evident results of a moral influence, what must we think of them?—or rather, what must we not think of them? For it is t6 be observed, that this conduct is adapted to circumstances, and discovers an apparent zational discrimination, as well as an apparent moral consciousness ; in the means employed by the creatures towards the accomplish- ment of the ends which the exigency suggests. The controling energies which direct the limited conscious powers of brute creatures to particular ends, are wonderfully dis- played again in the economy of the cuckog, which lays its eggs in the nest of the hedge-sparrow, and in those of other small birds ; these birds, so far from molesting the young intruder,—who, in a singularly curious manner, expels its companions, the small birds’ progeny, from the nest, in order that itself may be exclu- sively and adequately fed by the parents,—feed and cherish it, till it arrives at nearly its full growth; that is, until it is four or five times the size of the foster-parents.t+ The cuckoo, as if conscious that one of her overgrown nurslings would be quite suf- ficient for the hedge sparrow or wagtail to attend to and provide for, although she lays several eggs, deposits them in as many * Bingley’s Anim. Biog. vol. i, p. 177, et seq. + Jenner’s Observations on the Nat. Hist. of the Cuckoo, Phil. Trans. vol. Ixxviil, p. 221, et seq. the true nature of Instinct. 17 strange nests, belonging to these little birds ; for she never builds herself: she acts, in fact, as if she calculated exactly what should ~ and what would be done by others, for the rearing of her progeny. Another very curious circumstance noticed by Dr. Jenner, in con- nection with his remarks on the natural history of the cuckoo, is the power exercised by birds,—-which, he says, may arise from “ some hidden cause in the animal economy,”—either of retarding or of accelerating the production of their eggs, according to cir- cumstances. Moral and intellectual design and active energy, above the conscious faculties of the creature, is surely evident in all this ; for the creature is not a mere piece of mechanism, but has a manifest conscious freedom in the performance of its peculiar natural acts; but which freedom is thus as manifestly controlled by superior influences, of which it is unconscious. How, other- wise, can we possibly account for the incessant endeavours of the young cuckoo to dislodge its fellow inmates of the nest, while, as yet, it has scarcely extricated itself from the egg: it cannot re- flect upon the necessity of its operations either for ultimate preser- vation, or for present convenience; yet it acts as if it did, and takes the most effectual means for the accomplishment of those ends. Will those who attribute design to such actions, say, that the de- sign of taking the immediate steps necessary for the preservation of the creature can reside within its own consciousness? It surely cannot.—The final purposes which are the primary motives of its actions, are far above what it can either conceive or survey ; otherwise the cuckoo must indeed be a “* rara avis in terris,” a feathered philosopher of no mean or despicable talent. . One of the strongest instances of apparent moral sagacity, is that well-known one recorded of the Elephant, which is said to have taken place in Delhi. An Elephant having killed his Cornac or go- vernor, it is related that the man’s wife, in despair, threw her two children before the animal, saying, “‘ now you have destroyed their father, you may as well put an end to their lives and mine,” —upon which the animal, relenting, and taking up the biggest of the children with his trunk, placed him upon his neck, and hay- ing thus adopted him for his Cornac, would never afterwards per- mit any other person to mount him. In this case we cannot suppose Vox. I. ; B 18 An Inquiry respecting the animal to have reflected upon the deed of slaughter he had committed as wrong, nor upon the act of atonement or reconcilia- tion as right, without making him an accountable agent ; there are, however, the strongest possible features of right and wrong, in the two acts and their attendant circumstances, which must unquestionably belong to an agency above the proper conscious- ness of the creature. For we have here a case of moral exigency, and also of reasoning and intellectual exigency ;—-so much of moral and intellectual motive adapted to the circumstances and moral re- quirement of the case, that if the cause principal be referred to any power within the consciousness of the creature, we must inevitably pronounce it to be a moral and intellectual being. But surely we shall not assert this from the mere appearance of the thing, and without reference to the general quality of the animal’s nature asa whole, which clearly, and for the reasons I have already dwelt upon, marks its limit, and designates it to be neither moral nor intellectual as to its proper consciousness ;—thus not at all so in it- self, but only apparently so, by being acted upon by some power or agency above the stream of its consciousness ; and which agency must unquestionably be of a moral and intellectual character, or it never could impel the animal to the exercise of those powers of which it is conscious, in the performance of actions possessing the strongest possible moral characteristics. / If brutes then are incapable of viewing moral qualities ohjectivels, and reflecting upon them as such, they must necessarily be desti- tute of that perception of moral differences, with which the power of exercising their moral sagacity must be connected ; moral saga- city, therefore, cannot exist at all in them otherwise than appa- rently ; and this conclusion is exactly what a candid estimation of brute powers seems to lead to; namely, that they are actuated by moral energies of which they are not conscious, and which there- fore are not properly theirs; and that these energies operating upon their proper conscious perceptions—which may be termed natural perceptions to distinguish them from those which are moral and intellectual,—furnish the motive principles which serve to in- duce them to apply their conscious powers in a certain manner ;— thus producing what is apparently moral in them, without their the true nature of Instinct. 19 being conscious that it is so, and which thus is really not so as to them. The seat of these moral energies within them, therefore appears to be a secret region in their minds, above the seat of their natural perceptions ; the latter serving as a plane, as it were, for the operation of such superior powers, which, under the Divine control, dispose them to the fulfilment of the ends they are de- signed for. In this manner it is possible to account for those surprising ap- pearances of moral excellence in the actions of animals, which we observe them to display, and which are so totally above their proper conscious powers :—a moral excellence, which, as we have seens appears in many instances more perfect and undeviating than that of the generality of human agents, and which therefore cannot be the result of any conscious freedom in the creature, unless we suppose them, in particular instances, raised higher in moral per- ception and determination than even man himself. It is by cons founding the limited freedom of brute action with the superior energies, which, unknown to them, actuate their conscious powers, that their nature has been so far mistaken, as to be cons sidered the same in kind with, and only differing in degree from; that of man. Herein then consists one proper limitation of the brute mind :— although apparently moral it is in reality not so, but merely na- tural, and is operated upon by moral causes above its own Consci-+ ousness, and which lead it to the performance of actions which, in effect, are moral, as considered objectively by the human mind: From a comparison of this view of the nature of the consciousness of animals with that of man, the latter agent alone appears capable of considering and appreciating the nature of his own actions, and those of the inferior creation ; he alone is conscious of moral, in- tellectual, and scientific energies and perceptions ; and being, in consequence of this moral and intellectual faculty, at liberty to estimate and direct all lower operations, is in moral and intellec- tual, as well as in natural freedom; whereas the brute is in the latter only. From the most dispassionate survey of brute nature, it does not appear that the creatures have any reflex perception respecting the qualities of their own discernment, or of the moral B2 20 An Inquiry respecting energies, or scientific powers, which they display : on the contrary, it appears sufficiently evident that with respect to any perception of their own qualities in the abstract, the wisest is no wiser than the dullest, and the dullest is equally wise with the wisest ; the most moral as little so as the least, and vice versa: the Peacock has no more perception of the pride he is famed for, than the Horse or the Lion have of their generosity ; than the Fox has of his cunning, or the Tiger of his cruelty. / From these considerations, there is in appearance the strongest probability that the moral world, good and evil, may be in action upon, although above the stream of, the natural world, or above the consciousness of lower existence ; and that the former may thus operate upon the latter as a cause upon an effect. But be this as it may, it appears certain, that moral qualities being objective in the mind of man, he alone is possessed of moral consciousness and moral freedom of action ; thus is an inhabitant of both the mo- ral and the natural world; and that as moral qualities do not be- come objective in the minds of brutes, or as the moral actions which they perform are not reflected upon by them, as such, nor are in any respect the effects of moral choice and discrimination on their parts, they are therefore not possessed of moral conscious~ ness, nor of moral freedom of action ; and thus are not inhabitants of the moral world,—although acted npon by it,—but of the natural world only. Having thus concluded my preliminary remarks on the moral qualities exhibited by brutes, I proceed to consider those which are of an intellectual and scientific character,—to the illustration, consequently, of the second proposition given in a former page.— As moral perception appears to be excluded from the conscious sphere of the brute mind, so neither do brutes appear to possess any reflex power of contemplating the principles of intelligence and science by which, or rather according to which, they act. They appear to possess no power of taking an intellectual recognizance of this intelligence and science so remarkable in many of their ac- tions ; and may be considered as possessing only an inferior, or what may be called animal mind, capable of being influenced or direct- ed, but incapable of viewing or appreciating the powers or ener- the true nalure of Instinct. 21 gies which thus influence and direct it in the most essential of its actions. Man is endowed with the love of science ; he, therefore, experiences a delight proper to his nature as a scientific agent, from the contemplation of a means which is instrumental in the accom- plishment of an end: he is also gifted with the love of usefulness, and therefore receives a moral delight from the accomplishment of the end itself, which science is the means of effecting. Not so the brute :—the architectural contrivance and discrimination of the Beaver, which is nevertheless much inferior to that of various species of Termites ;—the surprising intelligence of the Hive-bee and others of the Apes;—the ingenious mechanism of the spider :— all these determinations of instinct, which, when viewed in connec- tion with the animals in whom they are displayed, are so astonish- ing, form no objects of contemplation to them, while to the hu- man mind they are the subjects of intellectual perception and reflection, advancing in many instances even to sublimity. When we observe, in the insect world, in beings apparently the most insignificant, an intelligence the most perfect, presenting the most wonderful foresight, provision, and design, we are led at once to the recognition of this intelligence, as a principle which cannot, with any degree of propriety, be attributed to the creature, as properly its own; and we perceive, that in these instances thus to attribute it to those humble animals, would be to raise them to an eminence far above the most sagacious quadrupeds, Innumerable are the instances among insects, in which the agency of intellectual and scientific powers, altogether superior to the proper consciousness of the creatures, is to be observed 5 and it may be remarked, that as we descend in the scale of sentient being, this intellectual agency appears to develope itself ina man- ner proportionably more wonderful ; so as to afford the most sub- stantial evidences of the reality of its existence and operation. That Bees exercise the principles of a science, of which they are wholly unconscious, is beautifully exemplified in the construc- tion of their cells; the general form of these, it is well known, is that which includes a greater space than any other which could be given to them, without leaving a void space between the contigu- ous cells; each of which, from this circumstance, supplies one of the 22 . An Inquiry respecting walls of each of the six cells which surround it. But, ** it is to be remarked, that though the general form of the cells is hexagonal, that of those first begun is pentagonal, the side next the top of the hive, and by which the comb is attached, being much broader than the rest; whence the comb is more strongly united to the hive than if these cells were of the ordinary shape. It of course follows that the base of these cells, instead of being formed like those of the hexagonal cells of three rhomboids, consists of one rhomboid and two trapeziums.”’* Here then are effects both of geometry and philosophy, although the creatures are neither geometricians nor philosophers. They indeed act precisely as geometricians and philosophers would act, were they to undertake constructing the same thing with the same end in view. Neither can we conceive them in their process of collecting honey and storing it up, as actuated by any reflection upon the nature of the act ; or as contemplating a season of winter when their labours must cease. Actuated by an impressing influence to gather and store up, and led to the immediate means and to ihe best mode of applying them, their consciousness, although it reaches to and embraces the whole of the sensible detail of the operations to which it is directed, and includes a gratification re- sulting from the exercise of its inferior powers, reaches no further : their conscious world consists of the sensible images of flowers and fields and combs and honey ; in these, as to themselves, ‘¢ they live and move and have their being :’—they advance no higher; —they know nothing of a regular hexagon, separate from a honey comb, nor can they reason upon the consequences of their actions. Reason, intelligence and science, therefore, cannot, as is asserted by some philosophers,+ be the result of instinct; or the Bee would eertainly be a reasoner: it must be evident, on the contrary, that ifs consciousness can reach only to the immediate inferior acts themselves, to which it is directed by a potent energy operating upon its nature. Fxercising in voluntary consciousness the inferior powers just mentioned, the animal is led and informed by an influence, im- * Kirby and Spence, vol. 1, p. 496. + See Smellie’s Philos. of Nat, Hist, ut supra. the true nature of Instinct. 23 pressing its conscious mind, and producing the effects of the most perfect science ; thereby accomplishing those objects which con- stitute the ends of its existence. No effect can be produced without .a cause, and the Bee is either a scientific and intellectual being, or it is the instrument of an agency that is of such a quality, operating in and upon its animal mind, in a sphere above its proper perception. Other less familiar, but not less wonderful instances of the me- chanical and even philosophical powers exerted in the actions of insects, are exhibited to us in whatever quarter we contemplate their economy. The larva of a small Moth, (P. Tinea serratella LL.) constructs a little cylindrical tower for its residence upon the surface of a leaf, and uses the utmost ingenuity to fix and retain it ina position perpendicular to the site, by attaching silken threads from a protuberance at its base to the surrounding surface; and when the stability of its habitation is threatened by external vio- lence, it produces a vacuum by drawing itself up to the summit of its tower, which at other times it completely fills; ‘and thus as effectually fastens it to the leaf as if an air-pump had been em- ployed ;” and in order to preserve the power of forming this va- cuum, the insect never eats through the lower epidermis, or infe- rior surface of his esplanade on the leaf :—yet so insignificant is this little creature as to its bulk, that its castle appears like a small spine on the leaf to which it is attached.* Equally curious is the history of insect architecture in other in- stances, as in the Aquatic Spider, ( dranea aquatica, ) whose habi- tation “is built in the midst of water, and formed, in fact, of air !” This creature spins a frame work for her intended chamber, which she attaches to the leaves of aquatic plants growing at the bottom of the water, and having spread over the threads which form this frame work a transparent varnish resembling liquid glass, and very elastic, she next spreads over her belly a pellicle of the same ma- terial, and ascending to the surface of the water, by some means not fully ascertained, transfers a bubble of air beneath this pel- licle, and then descending to her structure, discharges the bubble into it, until, by successively repeating the operation, she effects * Kirby and Spence, vol, i, p, 462. wn ~ An Inquiry respecting the expansion of her aérial sub-aquatic tenement to its proper ha- bitable dimensious.* The entire history indeed of the various species of the Spider and of the Bee teems with wonders, and supplies an ample stock of evidence in support of the proposition that they are guided and in- structed by an intelligence which they do not themselves perceive. But as their history may be seen at large in the excellent work on Entomology from which our illustrations from that science have — hitherto been derived, I forbear to swell the catalogue ; and shall conclude this branch of the subject, by adducing from the same work, two remarkable instances, exemplifying, in the larva of a species of Myrmeleon, and in the Termes fatalis, the most extraor- dinary and surprising operations, totally incompatible with any conscious scientific ability of the creatures; appending to these some remarks on the inferences drawn by Messrs. Kirby and Spence, from a singular case of instinct, adapted to contingency, in the Humble-bee. wn The first mentioned insect, whose length when full grown, is about half an inch, and whose shape slightly resembles that of the Wood-louse, is an inhabitant of the south of Europe, feeds upon the juices of Ants and other insects, digging a conical hole or pit for the purpose of entrapping them. This it effects by tracinga circle in a soil of loose dry sand, and excavating with surprising dexte- rity a furrow within the included space ; loading its flat head by means of one leg with a portion of the sand, which it jerks adroitly over the boundary ; aud working backwards till it arrives at the part of the circle whence it started; it then traces a new circle and proceeds with the work, constantly throwing the sand from the interior, till it completes its pit to the bottom or apex. It is indefatigable in its labours, and relieves the leg which it uses as a shovel to load its head, by working through each successive circle in an opposite direction, and thus exercising each leg alter- nately, always working with the one next the centre. When it meets with stones too large to be jerked from its head, it contrives to get them poised upon its back, and if in ascending the side of the pit, the stone should be again precipitated, in renewing its attempt * Kirby and Spence, vol. 1, p. 475. the true, nature of Instinct. 25 to carry it up, it avails itself of the channel made by the falling Stone, as a road, against the sides of which it can support and di- rect its load in the ascent. Stationed at the bottom of its little pit, if an Ant should stumble over the margin it hastens the descent and capture of its prey by the fall of little loads of sand which it jerks in quick succession upon the escaping insect.* All this however is surpassed by the Termites, whose nests are formed of clay, and are as large as huts, being generally of no less a height than 12 feet, and broad in proportion, and which when in clusters resemble an Indian village, and may at a distance be mistaken for one. The interior of one of these structures presents a most surprising skill and intelligence, both in the construction and appropriation. The apartments, avenues, and communications, consisting of vaulted chambers, built of various materials, galleries constructed spirally Sor the facility of ascent, arches or bridges of communication said to be projected, not excavated, are appropriated for royal and other apartments, nurseries, magazines, &c. No one ean surely contemplate the gigantic, and at the same time scientific, operations of these wonderful creatures,—which yet are scarcely the fourth of an inch in Jength,—without feeling struck by the manifestation of an agency far above the discrimination of the subjects in whose ac- tions it is presented, and whose economy is justly characterized as ¢a miracle of nature.”’+ . But the operations of an intelligence in the conduct of the insect race, superior to the conscious faculties of the creature, is made still more manifest by its appearance not only in what has been called blind instinct,—which term itself rightly interpreted, must imply the existence of controling influences,—but also by its de- velopement in strictly contingent acts, affording evidences of the same intelligent design and adaptation, in agreement with what such particular circumstances require. ‘That such do really occur the following extract will satisfactorily demonstrate. ' In the course of his ingenious and numerous experiments M. Huber put under a bell glass about a dozen humble bees without any store of wax, along witha comb of about ten silken cocoons so unequal in height that it was impossible the mass should stand * Kirby and Spence, vol. 1, p. 429. + Ibid. vol, i, p. 513. 26 An Inquiry respecting firmly. Its unsteadiness disquieted the humble bees extremely. Their affection for their young led them to mount upon the cocoons for the sake of imparting warmth to the inclosed little ones, but in attempting this the comb tottered so violently, that the scheme was almost impracticable. To remedy this inconvenience, and to make the comb steady they had recourse to a most ingenious expe- dient. Two or three bees got upon the comb, stretched them- selves over its edge, and with their heads downwards fixed their fore feet on the table upon which it stood, whilst with their hind feet they kept it from falling. In this constrained and painful pos- ture, fresh bees relieving their comrades when. weary, did these affectionate little insects support the comb for nearly three days! at the end of this period they had: prepared a sufliciency of wax with which they built pillars that kept it in a firm position: but by some accident afterwards these got displaced, when they had again recourse to their former manceuvre for supplying their place, and this operation they perseveringly continued until M. Huber, pitying their hard case, relieved them by fixing the object of their attention firmly on the table. ‘¢ It is impossible,” the authors remark, ¢¢ ae to be struck with the reflection that this most singular fact is inexplicable on the supposition that insects are impelled to their operations by a blind instinct alone. How could mere machines have thus provided fora case which in a state of nature has probably never occurred to ten nests of Humble-bees since the creation? If in this instance these little animals were not guided by a process of reasoning, what is the distinction between reason and instinct ? How could the most profound architect have better adapted the means to the end—how more dexterously shored up a tottering edifice, until his beams and his. props were in readiness ?”* A process of reasoning, or intellectual deduction, is here cer- tainly incontrovertible, but this, at the same time, is so much beyond the nature and condition of the creature, that we cannot suppose it performed within its proper consciousness. What then in this case, and if in this case, in every other, is the distinction between reason and instinct ? It is, I apprehend, this :—reason is * Kirby and Spence; vol. i, p. 381. ithe true nature of Instinct. 27 a deduction of intellect within the conscious perception of the sub- ject whose actions exhibit it :—ustinct is a similar deduction of intellect, not within, but above the conscious perception of the subject whose actions exhibit it. For a consciousness of possessing and exercising such intelligence cannot exist without elevating its subject to that intellectual freedom which is the proper and dis- tinguishing characteristic of human rationality. If we ascend to the higher classes of animals, fewer instances occur of those operations which include in them principles of science; and the actions of this character which are to be observed among such animals, do not appear to arise from a conscious free principle, but to be the result of a dictation, similar to that by which the ope- rations of the insect world are carried on; as in the case of the Beaver in the construction of his dam and hut. In the higher orders of animals, indeed, we lose sight of the more astonishing displays of science which abound in some of the inferior tribes, as in in- sects ;—as if to mark that such science is not the conscious property of the brute nature. ‘Thus the Mammalia appear to be more particularly the subjects, in which a mora intelligence is opera- tive, and thus are capable of being rendered more immediately instrumental to the moral uses to which many species of them ae directed by man: whereas the insect tribes appear to be more particularly the subjects in which a scientific intelligence is dis- played; I say more particularly, because the agencies in all cases are evidently both moral and scientific, although operating di- versely, so as to produce the appearance of such distinction ; for in every case the influent agency must be moral as regarding the end ; and scientific as regarding the means; and in the larger quadrupeds the effects of moral intelligence are as finely illustrated by the Horse, the Elephant, the Camel and the Dog, as are the effects of scientific intelligence in the operations of insects. In every case in which science is displayed in the actions of quadrupeds, it is evidently, as respects the creatures, as much above any conscious perception of their own, as it is in the case of insects :—in this respect the Bee and the Beaver are both ona par, and it would be unreasonable to concede a perception of science to the latter, and at same time to deny it to the former. Neither does the Dog possess 28 An Inquiry respecting any advantage over the Bee or the Beaver in this respect; the in- Stinctive science he displays in the chace is evidently not objec tively reflected upon by him, which is manifest from the fact that his ordinary nature is not at all elevated or refined by any percep- tions or conclusions which would result frem the view of his acute instinctive discriminations. The Dog, as we all know, is a keen and clever sportsman ; but if in this case his discriminations were the result of reflection,—if he had the power. of consciously re- flecting in himself, at the time of the chace, on what was proper to be done and on the best means of procedure ; and if this power were not derived from some hidden principle of impulse acting upon his conscious nature, he would have the power to reflect, sub- sequently, both upon the means and the action, the whole of which would thus be made the object of his proper reflection. He would thus be able to take an intellectual view of the chace, and of his own peculiar capabilities ; the door of analysis would be opened to him ; and, contrary to the fact, he would thus advance at least one step in the scale of intellect. If however we admit,—what seems to accord alike with reason and with fact,—that his con- scious mind must have been, in this exercise of his instinct, im- pressed by an agency above it, no such consequence as that alluded to would follow, from the most wonderful display of adroitness and discrimination. The impression ceasing or subsiding with the re- quirement, would leave him precisely where it found him; and accordingly we find, that the Hound, who displays the most con- summate skill and maneeuvre in the chace, remains stationary, and does not ascend into the scale of intellectual consciousness ; nor can he as to intellectual superiority be ranked above the contemned and undignified Cur. The incongruities in the actions of brutes, afford again striking proofs that they act under the operation of an intelligence superior to the plane of their proper perception 5 and which, if we consider it as affecting them through a limited channel, by particular im- pressions on their conscious faculties, will account for the wonder- ful operations performed by many of them, who are not in any wise remarkable for their general sagacity ; whose traits of. perfec- tion are circumscribed by an exceedivgly narrow limit, aud which the true nature of Instinct. 29 are yet, within that limit, truly astonishing. ‘* With what caution does the hen provide herself a nest in places unfrequented and free from noise and disturbance? When she has laid her eggs in such a manner that she can cover them, what care does she take in turn- ing them frequently that all parts may partake of the vital warmth ? When she leaves them to provide for her necessary sustenance, how punctually does she return before they have time to cool, and become incapable of producing an animal? In the summer you see her giving herself greater freedoms, and quitting her care for above two hours together, but in winter, when the rigour of the season would chill the principles of life and destroy the young one, she grows more assiduous in her attendance, and stays away but half the time. When the birth approaches, with how much nicety and attention does she help the chick to break its prison; not to notice her covering it from the injuries of the weather, providing it proper nourishment, and teaching it to help itself; nor to mention her forsaking the nest, if after the usual time of reckoning, the young one does not make its appear- ance. A chemical operation could not be followed with greater art and diligence than is seen in the hatching of a chick; though there are many other birds that show an infinitely greater sagacity in all the forementioned particulars. ‘¢ But at the same time the hen that has all this seeming in- genuity, (which is indeed absolutely necessary for the propagation of the species), considered in other respects, is without the least glimmerings of thought or common sense. She mistakes a piece of chalk for an egg, and sits upon it inthe same manner: she is insensible of any increase or diminution in the number of those she lays: she does not distinguish between her own and those of another species, and when the birth appears, of never so different a bird, will cherish it for her own. In all these circumstances, which do not carry an immediate regard to the subsistence of herself or her species, she is a very idiot.”’* A similar incongruity, incompatible with the rational exercise of the intellectual principle of foresight, upon the supposition of that principle being proper to the mind of the creature, is ex~ * Spectator. No. 120. 30 An Inquiry respecting hibited by the Hamster Rat, (Mus Cricetus). The principle of foresight as exhibited in this animal, who lays up food, “ not for his winter’s support, (since during that season he always sleeps,) but for his nourishment previously to the commencement, and after the conclusion of his state of torpidity,”* cannot be con- sidered asa principle of which he has any consciousness what- ever; for had the Hamster a conscious perception and apprecia- tion of sucha principle, he would be led to apply it in other cases, as well as in that of storing up food for the preservation of his life; but as if to demonstrate the irrationality of the animal, he attacks with blind fury the largest quadruped that comes in his way; instead of seeking safety by flight, like most other creatures in whom the principle of caution is observable ; and which a rational foresight would necessarily impel him to, whet menaced with destruction by a gigantic adversary. The Arctic Fox, as Crantz relates, enters the water and splashes with his foot to bring up the fish, which he then seizes ; and the Greenland women, profiting by his example, employ with success a similar artifice : the Fox surely does not reflect either upon the act or the means as the women must do; in him the act. is evidently spontaneous, and does not flow from any thought, of © which analysis is predicable. The limitation of the brute mind, and its exclusion from in- tellectual consciousness, or proper reflection, is also apparent in the inutility of speech to such animals as can be taught to articulate, in effecting any thing beyond imitation; evincing clearly the incommunicability of the power of reason to the creature ;—while, at the same time, it illustrates the power of the influence of the human mina, as exerted upon the mind and faculties of the animal, and ascertains the limit of. that influence. There can be no reasoning without reflection, no reflection without intellectual freedom: if this reflection and this freedom were the attribute of the brute,—how, I ask, should we deny him a share of human consciousness. Does this consciousness, in kind, exist in the brute mind? and are they endowed with it for no other purpose than to produce,—what it could not fail to pros * Bing. Anim. Biog. vol. i, 452. the true nature of Instinct. 31 duce,—the sensible perception of their own individual degrada- tion ?—or, would it not follow, upon such an admission of the rationality of brutes, that we should he very likely to see the fable realized of the Mice holding a Council to “ bell the Cat,” and absolutely devising a successful stratagem to effect their pur- pose? Is there, upon such a principle, any ground for asserting, that, with proper care, we might not be able to rear a few four- legged philosophers and mechanicians, of at least tolerable eru- dition and science? or rather, the principle being admitted, can it be safely denied that they do not already exist ? T am aware that there is a class of actions which are in great mea- sure modifications arising from the influence of education and habit, and which, perhaps, appear more strongly than any others to favour the supposition that brutes are possessed, in some degree, of the power of analysis and reason; but as this appearance is of so prominent a character, and is so closely allied to their specific mental capabilities, [ purpose to enter upon a more particular consideration of it in the course of these Essays. I shall only remark, for the present, that the natures of brutes no doubt evince a strong susceptibility of being influenced, within certain limits, by the human mind; but this susceptibility of sub- Servience to human intelligence, so far from militating against the views here offered of the proper nature of brutes, appears rather to strengthen and confirm the position, that they are affected by influences above their own consciousness ; and that the wisdom of the Creator has so constituted their natures as to be affected by the influence of mediate agencies, in order to the production of the various ends which it may be necessary should be accomplished through their instrumentality. I need scarcely remark that the general views attempted to be established by the foregoing observations, cannot be adequately illustrated in the limited survey of a Preliminary Essay :—their further developement must rest upon a more extended examina- tion of the particular functions, which, taken collectively, form the brute economy. Certain it is, however, that the liberty and freedom of the human mind forms the basis of its rationality and intelligence, which is no doubt aided by an influent light and 82. An Inquiry respecting the true nature of Instinct. perception, received from the Source of all Being; the conscious- ness of which influence connects him more immediately with that Source ;—and that the absence of freedom in the brute mind, in this respect, forms the basis of its irrationality, and demonstrates that the influent light and perception which gives birth to the surprising actions we see animals perform, forms no part of their conscious nature. Thus brutes are evidently connected with the Author of Creation, though in a manner more remote than man. ‘The freedom of man consists in his being able to take a survey from an eminence, as it were, of the various discriminations which he himself effects, and which, by various agencies, are effected throughout lower existence; hence, although man possesses a lower or animal mind, similar, as considered distinctly and by itself, to the brute mind, and which inferior mind or region he looks down upen from an intellectual eminence, it is evident that his consciousness respecting even the things of this inferior region is illumined, by the glorious light of intellect and ration- ality which is proper to him. The brute, on the contrary, does not survey from an elevated sphere the discriminations which he himself effects, nor those of nature which are in operation around him; although these discriminations, as effected by himself and by the other subjects of creation around him, are calculated to lead him on in the road of analysis, did he but possess the proper faculty. May we not then infer,—That intellectual and scientific qualities do not become objective in the minds of brutes; or, that the intellectual and scientific actions which they perform, are not reflected upon or contrived by them as such ; thus that they possess no intellectual or scientific con- sciousness, and consequently that no intellectual or scientific design can be attributed to them; and therefore that so much of intellectual or scientific design as appears conspicuous in their actions, must be the effect of intellectual and_ scientific powers or energies, acting upon them ina region of their minds above the sphere of their proper consciousness ? Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. © 33 Art. 11. Monograph on the Cebrionide, a Family of Insects, by W. EK. Leacu, M. D. &c. To Joun Grorce Cuitpren, Esq. F. R. S, &c.* My dear Sir, I send you a Monograph on a Family of Insects, having Cebrio for its type, which was written in the year 1815, and in- tended for my Zoological Miscellany ; I have looked it over, and corrected it, and now send it to you for the New Journal, in which you are one of the Editors ; together with the description of two undescribed species of Insects, belonging to a genus established I remain, my dear Sir, yours most sincerely, December 19, 1823. : Wittram Exrorp Leacn. Ee Cesrio, Olivier, Fabricii, Rossi, et Latreille. Cisteca, Rossi. Corpus plus aut minus antice inflexum. Abdomen sepius ellip- ticum, convexiusculum, aut trigonum. Thorax capite plis aut minis latior. | Scutellum parvum. Elytra rigida, abdominis longitudine. Sternum anticum, in non- nullis productum, in aliis concavum, margine elevata, in aliis planum aut convexum. Pedes validi, femoribus crassiusculis, compressis. ‘Tarsi pedum anteriorum et mediorum 5-articulati ; posteriorum 4-articulati. ‘Caput ovatum. Oculi magni, rotundati, prominuli. Maxille membranacee. Mandibule exserte, validz, hiatu interposito, Autenne corporis feré longitudine, 10-articulate, anté oculos in- serte. Labrum brevissimum. Ligula appendice palpigera in- structaé. Palpi quatuor. Body more or less inflexed. Abdomen most frequently elliptic, somewhat convex or triangular. Thorax more or less broader than the head. Scutellum small. Elytra hard, of the length of the abdomen. The anterior ster- * The Editors intend to give a Plate illustrative of the Genera described ia this paper in a futnre Number, Vor. I. c ‘84 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. num, in some of these genera, concave, with the margin elevated or reflexed, in others flat or convex; feet strong, thighs thick and compressed, the hinder ones bear an appendage resembling a trochanter ; tarsi of the fore and middle feet five-jointed, the hinder ones four-jointed. Head oval, eyes large, rounded and prominent. Maxille membranaceous, mandibule strong, ex- serted, with an hiatus interposed. Antenne nearly of the length of the body, ten-jointed and inserted before the eyes. Labrum very short; ligula furnished with a palpus-bearing appendage. Palpi four. STIRPIUM ET GENERUM SYNOPSIS. * Thorax quadratus, anticé subangulatus. Sternum anticé pro# ductum. Stirps 1.—Elytra integra. Antenne et tarsi elongati:— Antenne articulo secundo tertio breviore, ultimo abrupte mucronato.—i. ANALESTESA. Antenne articulis secundo et tertio equalibus, aliis breviori- bus ultimo gradatim attenuato.—11. Boscia. ** Thorax transversus, antice rotundatus. Sternum concavum, margine dilatata, planum aut convenum. Stirps 2.—Elytra integra. Antenne et tarsi crassiores et breviores. Antenne subcrasse, filiformes, simplices, longz articulis 2 et 3 brevioribus, ultimo abrupte acuminato.—i1l. CEBRIO. Antenne articulis, 2 et 3 longitudine zqualibus, latitudinem longitudine awquante, ultimo apicem versus incrassato, abrupte acuminato.—1Iv. TIBESIA. Stirps 3.— Elytra posticé dehiscentia. Antennz et tarsi breves. Antenne articulo tertio multo crassiore, ultimo apicem ver- sus gradatim acumipato.—v. DUMERILIA. Antenne subabrupte extrorstiim crassiores.—vI. HAMMONIA. Antenne filiformes, articulis moniliformibus, ultimo acuto.— Vil. BRONGNIARTIA. GENUS I.—ANALESTESA.+ Antenne elongate, articulo secundo tertio breviore, ultimo mu- -cronato. * Prosternum, Fischer. + Habent species omnes hujus generis, caput stiperné et thoracis dorsum, densé villosa. Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. 35 Palpi mazillares articulo secundo longiore, articulis tertio et quarto longitudine subequalibus, hoc apice oblique truncato. labiales articulo ultimo oblique truncato. Thorax quadratus, anticé subangulatus. Sternum anticum pro« ductum tarsi elongati: elytra integra. Antenne elongate, the second shorter than the third joint, the last pointed. Maxillary palpi with second joint the longest, the third and fourth nearly equal in length, the latter obliquely truncated. Labial palpi with the last joint obliquely truncated. Thorax squared, anteriorly somewhat angulated. Anterior ster- num produced. ‘Tarsi elongated. Elytra entire. Species 1.—Bicolor. A.—Supra fusca, subtis antennis pedibusque testaceis. Cebrio bicolor. Fabricit Syst. Eleut. Long. corp. 16 millim : Habitat in Barbaria. Mus. Latreille. Descr.—Caput perfuscum, supra profundé punctatum. Man- dibule rufe, apicibus nigris. Palpi, maxilla et labium sub- ferrugineo testacei. Thorax perfuscus; dorso profundé punctato. Pleura subferruginea. Pectus subferrugineum. Epigastrium et pedes saturaté testacei, tibiis et tarsis obscurioribus subfuscescen- tibus. Elytra fusca (sutura ferrugined) striata, jugis pustulatis, punctulis elongatis ; striis latis obscurioribus. A.—Above fuscous, beneath, the antenne and feet testaceous. Descr.—Head somewhat fuscous-brown, deeply punctured. Mandibules red, their apices black. Palpi, maxille and lip pale- ferrugineous-clay-coloured. Epigastrium and feet deep testa- ceous, the tibiae and tarsi more obscure, of a pale fuscous- brown. [lytra deep brown, (the suture ferrugineous) and striated. The sides pustulated, with oblong points and broad obscure striz. Length 7 ; lines.* Inhabits Barbary. * By aline is intended the eighth ofan inch throughout this paper.—W. E. L, c2 36 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. Species 2.— Testacea. A.—Testacea, thorace saturatiore, capite fuscescente. Long. corp. 13 3 millim : Habitat | Mus. Brit. ~ Descr.—Caput supra fuscescens, punctatum, infra testaceum 5 labrum et maxille rufe, his apicibus nigris. ‘Thorax supra satura- tissimé testaceus, punctatus. Pleura, pectus, epigastrium et pedes testacei. Elytra testacea, striata, striis angustis ; interstitiis densé punctatis, punctis subelongatis. : A.—Testaceous, the thorax deeper, the head light-fuscous-brown. Length 5 = lines. Habitat unknown. Descr.—Head above light fuscous brown and punctured, be- neath testaceous, labrum and maxilla red, the latter with their extremities black. Thorax-above very deep clay~coloured and punctured. Epigastrium and feet testaceous. Elytra testaceous, striated, striae narrow, the interstices thickly punctulated, the punctures somewhat elongated. GENUS II.—BOSCIA. Antenne elongate, articulo secundo et tertio xqualibus ; aliis brevioribus, ultimo gradatim attenuato. Palpi mazillares, articulis secundo et tertio longitudine equalibus, primo crasso, quarto ovato, ad apicem acuminato. labiales articulo ultimo oblique truncato. Thorax quadratus, auticé subangulatus. Sternum anticum an- ticé productum. ‘Tarsi elongati. Elytra integra. Antenne elongated, the second and third joints equal; the others shorter, the last gradually attenuated. Maxillary Palpz, with their second and third joints equally oes : the first thick ; the fourth oval, at its extremity acuminated.- Labial palpi, with their last joint obliquely truncated. Thorax squared, anteriorly somewhat angulated. Anterior sternum produced anteriorly. Tarsi elongated. Species 1.— Picea. B.—Corpore toto piceo, antennis, palpis, pedibusque testaceis. Long. corp. 14 4 millim: Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. 37 Habitat in America Boreali. Mus. Bosc. ir0Vi “edi Descr.—Thorax profunde impresso-punctatus. Elytra tenuitér striata, interstitiis elevato-striatis. Superficies inferior punctulis impressis. B.—Body entirely pitch-coloured,. the antenne, palpi and feet _ testaceous. Length 5 Slines, Inhabits North America. Descr.—Thorax impressed with deep punctures; the elytra slightly striated, the interstices with elevated stria ; the under part of the body impressed with small punctures, Species 2.— Punctata. B.—Corpore toto aterrimo impresso-punctato. Antennis, Palpig et pedibus piceis. Long. corp. 2 centim: 1 millim: Habitat in America Boreali. Mus. Bosc. Descr.—Thorax profundissime, elytra mediocriter, superficies- inferior et pedes leviter impresso-punctati. * Body totally jet-black, and every part with impressed punctules ; the antenna, palpi and feet pitchy-black. Length about an inch. Inhabits North America. Descr.—Thorax very deeply impressed, the elytra moderately, the under side and the feet lightly studded with impressed punctures. Species 3.—Olivacea. B.—Corpore supra et infra olivaceo ; pedibus, antennis palpisque | olivaceo-viridescentibus. Long. corp. 1 centim: 3 millim: Habitat in America Boreali. Mus. Bosc, Dumeril, Brongniart, Latreille. Descr.—Thorax et elytra leviter punctati, superficies inferior glaberrima, punctis minutissimis sparsa. B.—Body above and below olive-colour ; the feet, antennz, and palpi of an olive-colour approaching to greenish-olive. 38 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. Length 7 j lines. Inhabits North America. Descr.—Thorax and elytra slightly punctured ; the under sur- face of the body very smooth, sprinkled with very minute im- pressed punctures. Species 4.—Glabra, B.—Corpore nigrescente, glaberrimo; capite, thorace, elytris, et superficie inferiore, punctis minutissimis sparsis. _ Long. corp. 8 4 millim : Habitat in America Boreali. Mus. Bosc, Latreille. B. —The body blackish, and extremely smooth; the head, thorax, elytra, and the under parts of the body, sprinkled with very minute punctures, Length 4 } lines. Inhabits North America. Species 5.—Minuta, B.—Corpore glaberrimo, rufescente ; antennis, palpis et pedibus | rubris. Long. corp. 4 4 millim : Habitat in America Boreali, rarissima. Mus. Bosc. Descr.—Caput et thorax profunde impresso-punctati. Elytra leviter striata, interstitiis impresso-punctatis. Superficies in- ferior punctis minutissimis sparsa. B.—Body very smooth and reddish; the antennez, palpi, and | feet red. Length 2 lines. Tnhabits North America, and is a very rare species. Descr.—The head and thorax deeply punctured ; the elytra with slight strie ; the interstices with impressed punctures ; the under part is sprinkled with innumerable and very minute punctures. GENUS IIt.—CEBRIO. Antenne subcrasse, filiformes, simplices, longa, articulis secundo et tertio brevioribus, ultimo abrupté acuminato. Palpi mazillares filiformes, capitis longitudine, articulo secundo longiore ; articulis tertio et quarto longitudine equalibus, hoc clayato. Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. 39 Palpi labiales articulo ultimo clavato. Thorag transversus, subtrapeziformis, margine postica latiore. Ster- num anticum posticé mucronatum ; femora posticé appendice trochantiformi instructa. Antenne rather thick, filiform, simple, long, the second and third joints shortest, the last joint abruptly acuminated. Maxillary palpi filiform, of the length of the head, the second joint longest, the third and fourth joints are equal in length, the fourth clubbed. Labial palpi with their last joint clubbed. ‘Thorax transverse, somewhat trapeziform, the hinder margin broader; anterior sternum pointed behind; hinder thighs furnished with a trochantiform appendage. Species I.— Promelus. C.—Castaneo-testaceus ; capite, antennis et thorace nigris, pectore epigastrio tibiis tarsisque fuscescentibus, coxis femoribus ventreque testaceo-croceis. Cebrio gigas. Fabr. Syst. Eleuth. Cebrio promelus. Latreille, MSS. “Long. corp. 2 centim: 3 millim : ‘Habitat in Gallia Australi, et in Agro Pedemontano; in campis post tempestates et in Paludibus. Latreille. Descr.—Pleura ferrugineo-testacea; caput, thorax et elytra punctati, testaceo-villosi; villi breves. Thorax lined longitudi- nali elevata nitida, glabra; elytra elevato-lineata; striis medio~ cribus. C.—Chestnut-clay-coloured ; antenne and thorax black, the breast, epigastrium, tibia, and tarsi fuscous brownish, the coxe, thighs, and abdomen beneath of a clay-crocus colour, Length 1 inch, 1 4 line. - Inhabits the South of France, and Piedmont; in plains after tem- pests and in marshes. Descr.—Pleura ferugineous clay-coloured ; head, thorax, and elytra punctured, with clay-coloured down; the down short, Thorax with a longitudinal elevated shining line; elytra with elevated lines, the striz moderate in size. 40 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. Species 2.—Fabricii. C.—Ater, epigastrio, coxis, femoribus, abdomineque toto croceis ; » tibiis tarsisque fuscis. Long. corp. 1 centim: 3 } millim: Habitat in Lusitania et Hispania, (regione Valentina). Mus. Latreille. Descr.—Antenne supra nigro subtis ferrugineo-villose ; villi longi; corpus subtus croceo vestitum, femora apice extremo fus- cescentia. Obs.—Elytra fortius elevato-lineata, sulcis intermediis latis. ©.—Black, with the epigastrium, coxe, thighs, and the abdomen totally saffron-coloured, tibiz and tarsi fuscous-brown. Length 4 = lines. Inhabits Portugal and Spain in the province of Valentia. Descr.— Antenne, above with black, below with ferruginous ‘down, body beneath clothed with saffron-yellow down, the thighs at their extremities fuscous-brownish. ' Obs.—The elytra are more strongly furnished with elevated lines, and the intermediate grooves are broad, The elevated lines of the elytra, are not to be perceived easily on the upper aspect. In the only specimen which I had an op- portunity of examining, I observed on the thorax three impres- sions 1—2. . Species 3.—Morio. C.—Ater, femoribus utrinque linea subtestacea, coxis 4 anticis testaceis. | Long. corp. 11 } millim : Habitat in Lusitania et Hispania, regione Valentina. Mus. Latreille, Macleay, Nostr. Descr.—Caput, thorax, dorsum et elytra nigro-villosi; villi longi; antenna supra nigro subtus ferrugineo-villose ; epigas- trium, pectus et femora fusco-ferrugineo-villosa ; elytra medrio- criter elevato-lineata; sulcis intemediis mediocribus. C.—Black, the thighs on each side marked with a somewhat clay-coloured line, the four anterior coxe clay-coloured, Length 5 lines. Inhabits Portugal and Spain in the province of Valentia. Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach: 41 Descr.—Thorax, back, and elytra punctated, and covered with black down; the down long: the antenne above covered with fuscous-brown, and beneath with ferrugineous down ; ‘the epigas- trium, breast and thighs covered with brown-rusty down ; ‘elytra with elevated lines ; the intermediate grooves moderate, GENUS IV.—TIBESIA. Antenne articulis 2 et 3 longitudine xqualibus, latitudinem longi- tudine zquanté, ultimo apicem versus incrassato, abrupté acuminato, Palpi mazillares, capite breviores, articulis 2 et 3 zqualibus ; quarto precedente pauld longiore, apicem versis gradatim crassiore, apice obsoletissime obliqué subtruncato rotundato. —— labiales, articulo ultimo gradatim clavato. Thorax transversus, anticé rotundatus ; sternum anticum con- cavum, margine dilatata ; tarsi crassi et breves. Antenne, with their second and third joint equal in length, not broader than long, the last joint towards its extremity thick- ened and abruptly sharpened. Masxillary palpi shorter than the head, the second and third equal ; fourth a little longer than the preceding one, towards its apex gradually thicker, the apex very obsoletely and obliquely somewhat truncated, and rounded. Labial palpi, with their last joint clavated. Thorax transyerse anteriorly rounded ; anterior sternum concave with its margin dilated ; tarsi thick and short. Species 1.—Ruficollis. T.—Castaneo-ferruginea, capite nigro, elytris subcastaneo-testa- ceis, antennis castaneo-fuscis. Cebrio ruficollis. Fabr. Syst. Eleut. Long. corp. 6 1 millim : Habitat in Barbaria. Mus. Latreille, Descr.—Antenne articulis tribus basilaribus, labio, maxillis, palpisque ferrugineo-testaceis; mandibule rufo-ferruginee. Caput forte punctatum. Thorax punctatus, elytra Javius punctata, oh- solete striata. 42 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. C.—Chestnut-ferrugineous, the head black, elytra pale chestnut clay-coloured, antenne chestnut-brown. Length 32 lines. Inhabits Barbary. Descr.—Antenna with its three basilary joints, the lip, maxilla and palpi ferrugineous-clay-coloured ; mandibule red-ferrugine- ous; head deeply punctured ; thorax punctured ; elytra smooth punctured, obsoletely striated. GENUS V.—DUMERILIA. Antenne breves, articulo tertio multo crassiore, ultimo apicem ver- sus gradatim acuminato. Palpi macxillares articulo secundo longiore, articulis tertio et quar- to longitudine equalibus, ultimo gradatim attenuato. — labiales articulo ultimo obtusé truncato. Thorax transversus anticé rotundatus. Sternum anticum convexum, Tarsi breves, Antenne short, the third joint the thickest ; the last joint towards its extremity gradually acuminated. Macillary Palpi with the second joint longest, the second and third equal in length, the last joint gradually attenuated. Labial Palpi with the last joint obtusely truncated. Thorax transverse, rounded before ; anterior sternum convex ; tarsi short. Species 1.— Pulchra. D,—Capite nigro, thorace et elytris sanguineis, pedibus rufescenti- bus, abdomine infra ceruleo-nigra nitente, Long 54 millim : Habitat in Africa Australi. Mus. Dumeril, Latreille, Bosc. Descr.—Caput fortiter impresso-punctatum, thorax politus gla- berrimus, elytra tenuiter striata, interstitiis reticulatis, superfi- cies tota inferior punctis numerosissimis sparsa. D.—Head black, thorax and elytra sanguineous, feet reddish, abdomen beneath of a shining blue black. Length 2 lines. “Inhabits southern Africa. Descr.—Head with deeply impressed punctures, thorax polished and very smooth, elytra slightly striated, the interstices reticulated ; Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. 43 the whole inferior surface of the body is sprinkled with innume- rable impressed punctures. In the collection of Latreille, I saw a mutilated specimen of a species, which from its general form seemed to belong to this ge- nus. It came from Barbary. GENUS VI.—HAMMONIA. Antenne articulis 2 et 3 longitudine zqualibus extrorsum cras- siores. Palpi mazillares capitis feré longitudine, articulo secundo lon- giore ; articulis tertio et quarto longitudine zqualibus, hoc subclavato. labiales abrupte clavati. Thorac transversus, anticé rotundatus ; sternum anticum planum 3 tarsi breves. | Antenne with the second and third joints of equal pick exter- nally thicker. Mazillary Palpi almost as long as the head, the second jolut longest; the third and fourth equal in length, the latter slightly clavated. Labial Palpi abruptly clavated. Thorax transverse, anteriorly rounded, anterior sternum flat, tarsi short. Species 1.—Latreillit.* H.—Castaneo-testacea, elytris sordide testaceis. Long corp. 5 3 millim: Habitat in Etrusca et in Gallia Australiore, rarissimé Mus. Latreille. Descr.—Caput, thorax et elytra punctata ; his striatis 5 striis dis- coideis, posticé confluentibus. H.—Chestnut clay-coloured, elytra dirty clay-coloured. Length 2+ liues. Inhabits ‘Tuscany and the southern parts of France very rarely. Descr.—Head, thorax and elytra punctured ; the latter striat- ed; the strie discoidal, confluent behind. * M. Latréille informed me that this species was named by some author Cebrio brevicornis. 44 Monograph on the Cebrionide, by Dr. Leach. Species 2.—Melanocephala. H. —Rufescens, capite nigro, elytris tenuiter striatis, thorace ni- gro-punctato, Long corp. 1 centim: 1 } millim: Habitat in Hispania, et Tat, rarissime. Mus. Bosc. Descr.—Caput et thorax impresso-punctati; elytra glabra; abdomen infra punctis numerosissimis impressum. H.—Reddish, head black, elytra slightly striated, thorax spotted with black. Length 44 lines. Inhabits Spain and Portugal ; very rare. Descr.—Head and thorax with impressed punctures, elytra smooth, abdomen beneath with innumerable impressed punctures. GENUS VII.—BRONGNIARTIA, Antenne breves, filiformes, moniliformes, articulis secundo et ter- tio longitudine equalibus, ultimo acuto. ‘Palpi mazillares filiformes, articulo secundo longiore ; articulis tertio et quarto longitudine equalibus, quarto acuto. labiales articulo ultimo gradatim clavato. Thorax transversus, anticé rotundatus, sternum anticum convexum, tarsi breves. Antenne short, filiform, moniliform, the second and third joints of equal length, the last acute. Maxillary Palpi filiform, the second joint longest ; the third and fourth of equal length, the fourth acute. Labial Palpi, with the last joint gradually clubbed. Thorax transyerse, anteriorly rounded, anterior sternum convex, tarsi short. ) Species 1.—Atra. B.—Corpore, pedibus et antennis atris ; thorace profunde impres- so-punctato, elytris punctato-striatis. Long. corp. 7 } millim : Habitat in Barbaria. Mus. Brongniart, Bosc, Latreille. Monograph on the Cebrionidee, by Dr. Leach. 45 B.—Body, feet, and antenne black, thorax deeply impressed with punctures, elytra impressed with lines of punctures. Length 4 lines. Inhabits Barbary. On two Species of the Genus Phengodes* of Latreille’s Mss. Character genericus mihi non examinandus. Obs.—Antennarum rami ciliati. I. PHENGODES festaceus. P.—Testaceus, elytris apicibus antennisque fuscis. Lampyrist plumosa, Olivier. Long. Corp. 11 millim : Habitat Mus. Nost. ¢ Descr.—Oculi mediocres prominuli, nigri; corpus totum gla- brum ; tarsi postice pallidé fuscescentes; abdomen segmentis me- dio fuscescentibus, postice pallide testaceis. ee ’ P.—Testaceous, elytra at their extremities, and the antenne fus- cous-brown. Length 4 lines. Locality unknown. Descr.—Kyes moderate, prominent and black; all the body smooth; tarsi behind pale, inclining to fuscous-brown; the middle segments of the abdomen inclining ‘to fuscous-brown, behind pale clay-coloured. II. PHENGODES flavicollis. P.—Fuscus, thorace pectoreque fuscis. Phengodes flavicollis. Latreille Mss. Long. corp. 4 4 millim : Habitat in Peruvia. Mus. Latreille. Descr.—Oculi magni, globosi, nigri, Vertex nigricans. Os sub- - ferrugineum. Palpi fuscescentes. Ale pallidé fuscescentes. Pedes * The Baron Dejean in his catalogue of Coleoptera has Phengodes as a name given by Count Hoffmannsegs. G. S. + More correctly Lampuris, AG Gray on Sponges. fusci, coxis flavis. Abdominis dorso basi flavo. Venter segmentis posticé pallidis; penultimo et antepenultimo medio macula flava notatis. Obs.—Antenne quam in P. testaceo paululum longiores. P.—F uscous-brown, thorax and breast yellow. Length 2 lines. Inhabits Peru. Descr.—Eyes large, globose, black; vertex blackish; mouth somewhat ferrugineous ; palpi pale-fuscous brown; wings paler than the palpi; feet pale-fuscous brown, their coxe yellow; the back of the abdomen with its base yellow ; segments of the belly yellow behind ; the last but one, and the one behind it marked in their middle with a yellow spot. Obs.—The antennz of this species are longer than in P. teséaceus. Art. III. On the situation and rank of Sponges in the Scale of Nature, and on their internal Structure, by Mr. Joon Epwarp Gray. Tue true nature of these curious bodies has for a long while been an object of great doubt to all Naturalists, for we find that most of the Ancient Natural Historians apparently regarded them as animals, although their allusions are very obscure, for Pliny, Dioscorides, and their commentators, Mathiolus, Belonus, Bar- barus, &c. &c. divided them into male and female sponges, aud Aristotle in his Historia Animalium v. chap. 16, observes “* many people were of opinion that sponges were capable of feeling, and that they would shrink back if any one attempted to pluck them,” however he regrets this idea ; but Imperati has pretended to dis- tinguish two sorts of movement common to them, the one pro- duced by the sponge itself, and the other dependant on the nature of its substance ; but Ellis, who has quoted the above passage in his Corallines, only argues on the possibility of such movement, and neither there or in his Zoophites, appears to have observed it himself; nor were Peron, or Bosc, who studied these substances, where they were of a large size and in immense abundance, able Gray on Sponges. AT to discover the slightest trace of mobility, therefore if it exist it has escaped the notice of these naturalists ; the only modern author who appears to have thought he observed any motion, is Montagu, see Wernerian Transactions, vol. ii. On the revival of learning the only author who regarded them as animals was Nuremberg, in his Historia Nature, published in 1635, which is only a compilation of the ancient authors ; but all those who would examine for them- selves considered them as vegetables, among whom there are Bau- hine, Ray, Tournefort, Morisson, Boerhaave, Seba, Vaillant, Marsilli, and even Linneus himself, in the prior edition of his works, classed them as plants; and Forskal/, one of the most dis= tinguished of his pupils, and a most excellent zoologist, persevered in this theery even after the change of opinion of his master, pro- duced by the beautiful discovery of Peyssonell, Trembly, and Ellis. From this period, which was about a century after the pub- lication of Nuremberg, they were again placed in the animal king- dom, but only on account of the analogy of their appearance and manner of life, and not from the known existence of the animals, as may be known by the character which this zoologist has given to the genus. Linneus appears, like the ancients, to have consi-« dered them as animals themselves, respiring water, for he thus cha« racterizes them in the last edition of his Systema Natura, *¢ Spon- Gia. Flores (Foraminibus respirat aquam,) Séérps radicata, pilis contexta, plexilis, bibula.” After this period the zoologists were attracted by the gelatinous coat, first mentioned by Ellis,* which they appear to consider as an animal substance ; for thus Pallas, in 1766, characterized this genus :—Spongia: animal ambiguum, crescens, torpidissimum. Stirps polymorpha, fibris contexta, ge- latina viva obvestitis. Oscula (flores Lin) oscillantia seu caverne cellulzve superficiei. Solander and Ellis, in their Zoophites, in * Ellis, in his Corallines, thought that the pores were tubes, and contained the animals as in tubularia, &c. for he observes that they are formed of a reti- culated mass of tubes; and “‘in viewing the extremites of the upper or last shoots we shall perceive small openings at the end of their fibres, and as we trace the fibres back from the opening downwards we see a soft whitish sub- stance which fills the internal part of all the ramifications through the whole sponge;” he continues to observe they ‘‘are doubtless the lodgments of animals of a particular class ;” but this he appears to have given up in his Zoophites. 48 ’ Gray on Sponges. 1786; Bruguiére, in the French Encyclopedia; Lamark, in his Systéme ; Bosc, Cuvier, in his Regne Animal; aud Lamouroux, in the Bulletin Philomatique, have given nearly the same charac- ters, only leaving out or adding a few words of no consequence, as Solander, respecting their being formed of spicule and fibres, and Cuvier, that the animal jelly is destitute of any organs, or polypes ; but Lamouroua, in his Histoire, has placed the marine and fresh water species in one family with this character, which plainly shews that he is doubtful of the animal structure, ‘* polypiers spongieux, inarticulés, poreux, formés de fibres entrecroisées en tout sens coriacées ou cornées, jamais tubuleuse et enduites d’une humeur gelatineuse, tres fugace, et irritable suivant quelques auteurs.” ° From these characters it appears that the greatest dependance is placed on the living principle existing in the gelatinous coat! which appears to be the most essential and the animal part of the sponge. But to what class of animal does it belong? for its form, as the last mentioned author has stated is subordinate to that of its habitation ! is it only an animated mass! which it is possible to divide without destroying its vital principle, and in which there is no sensible or- ganization! without any apparent voluntary movement, or only such as cannot be seen by the eyes of modern zoologists ; destitute of a mouth or any kind of organs ; or is it in a word an animal dif- fering from all other animals. Béainville, in his new distribution, has observed this anomolous structure, and has formed a sub-king- dom in his animal kingdom, for the reception of it, and the Mo- nadaires, and the Corallines, under the name of HETEROMORPHES or Hererozoaires, from their irregular shape. But it unfortu- nately so happens that the sponges and corallines have very little affinity with the monadaires or acrita of Macleay, which are free animals almost eutirely formed of cellular substance, without any visible fibres or bony structnre. Lamarck, in consequence of the similarity remarked by Ray and Pallas of this genus to alcyonium, places it next to that genus and thus characterizes it in the Annales du Museum and in his Histoire: Polyparium polymorphum, fixum, molie, gelatinosum et subirritabile in vivo. Exsiccatione, tenax, flexile, porissimum, aquam respirans. Gray on Sponges.. 49 Axis, Fibre innumerz, cornez, flexiles reticulatim contexte et con-_ nexe. Crusta gelatine subviva fibras vestiens jugacissima in po- lyparioe mari emerso partim elapsa evanida, Polypi ignota ; ob- serving at the same time that he considers them as the most imper- fect, and in fact the end of animated nature ; but his idea of the similarity of this genus to Alcyonium must have been caused by his only having been able to compare dried specimens, for when these two genera are fresh and alive they are exceedingly different, the one offers a fibrous mass covered with a slippery gelatinous mucus like the white of egg, without any traces of organization; while the Alcyonium, on the contrary, offer a more or less solid mass sus- ceptible of slight motion, with distinct regular cells, in which the polypes are,contained, and out of which they appear in still water, though indeed when dry the two genera are so similar, that seve- ral of the Alcyonia have been considered as sponges, and vice versa ; but Lamarck has, I believe, with very little reason, separated the fresh water species and placed them in a different part of his system, near the Tubulariz. And again at the beginning of this century, we have such men as Targioni, Tozetti, and Spalanzani returning to the old doc- trine, and persisting in regarding the sponges‘as belonging to the vegetable kingdom, to which theory, as I have before stated, La- mouroux appears to incline. Some chemical zoologists have classed. the sponges with the animal kingdom on account of the odour which they emit when they are fresh, and when they are burnt ; but these characters are fallacious, for most of the marine plants emit when burnt an odour analogous to that of animal substances, which appears to originate in the simplicity of their structure and their habitation. With this difference of opinion who can be right ? we have names of equal authority in support of their being vegetables, animals themselves, and the habitation of animals! But upon examination we shall find that there is much more reason to consider them as vegetables, for those who regard them as animals always speak of their being excessively torpid, and indeed so torpid that not one of them gives us any reason for believing that they have themselves seen them move; and Lamarck, who considers them as polypiers Vou. I. D 50 Gray on Spongres. has not seen the polypes, and appears to have been only lead to that conclusion by a false analogy from his having examined dried specimens, and there has only been two affinities pointed out with regard to the animal, the one just noticed, and the other by Blain- ville, which I have remarked on, while they have the general ap- pearance and structure of many marine alge ; and if the marine and the freshwater agree in their manner of growth, there is little” doubt but that they must be removed to the vegetable kingdom.* Walking one day on the bank of the Thames, when the tide was _ very low, I observed a quantity of a green substance on the shore far from the bank, just above Kew bridge, which on examination” proved to bea freshwater sponge ; having collected a considerable quantity I brought it home, when on putting it in water a num- ber of green granules were washed out, which came more plenti- fully when the sponge was squeezed, and left only a light coloured very brittle fibrous substance ; there were a few partly decayed leaves at the bottom of the basin, on which the green granules fell. Being called away I left them there for a day or two, when on my next examination I found they had formed a more velvety mass, through which visible fibres were shooting, which gradually en- larged, thus growing entirely after the manner of vegetables ; the granules were very minute, and I thought had all the appearance of the genera of Alge. I have very little doubt that if the mucilaginous substance of the marine sponge be examined, it will be found to contain similar grains, but not having the opportunity of going to the sea side since making the above observation, I have not been able to verify my idea; I hope, however, that some person near the coast will examine the fact, so as to settle this long doubtful point, and thus greatly assist the possibility of arriving at a natural arrangement, in which either the introduction of an heterogencous body, or thé ab- sence of an analogue, is the object of great consideration. But * Especially Ulva diaphana, which has been considered as an Ulva by many,’ as Fucus by Hudson, and sponge by Parkinson, and as alcyonium by Gmelin,- &c. with a description of its polypi; but lately formed into a genus by Lamou~, roux under the name of Alcyonidium; it certainly has no polypes, for I found it. in abundance at Sheerness. Gray on Sponges. 51 these are not the only substances which should be removed from the animal to the vegetable kingdom, for the whole of the Poly- piers calciféres, of Lamouroux, (except perhaps acetabularia) are equally of vegetable origin, as well as several of the Alcyonia; for in fact the zoophites have been a receptacle for every simple organ- ized substance which naturalists did not exactly know where to place, as we may observe by Suvigny having removed several of the latter genus to Mollusca. With regard to the structure of this curious tribe, it appears that Ellis regarded the fibres as tubular, and Lamouroux in his character has ‘* jamais tubuleuse,” but upon two species figured by the former author he observed, that the C. oculaia is formed of reticulated fibres, and the other (C.urens) of fascicules of spicule, and from these observations he appears to _ have formed his character in the manuscript of his zoophytes, which was published by Solander ; all the other authors have re- garded them as a reticulated fibrous mass, covered with a jelly- like substance ; and Lamarck, in speaking of the axis and crust appears to refer to the same substances, he separates this family into three genera, on account of their structure: first, the spon- gilla, or freshwater species, which he regards as consisting only of fibres ; secondly, the Tethya, which has a small quantity of gelatinous crust, and the fibres rather tangled and radiating toward. the circumference, and the Spongia he thinks only differs from the alcyonia in having a slimy and deciduous crust, but on examining the sponges which have come under our observation, (not a small number of species) they all appear to be essentially formed after the same manner, that is to say, of longitudinally placed transpa- rent fusiform spicule, which vary considerably like the species, in size and in the closeness of tlieir connection, for in those species that appear to be fibrous, the fibres are composed of spicula, unit- éd together by a cartilaginous substance*, and the Spungia tomen- tosa, which is the one said to be formed of bundles of spiculz, by Ellis, if it be carefully examined, by breaking it from the centre of the base to the circumference, the spicula will be found to be disposed and slighty united into fibres, leaving cells; but * Which fibres in some of the species are so small that the spicule are not to be discovered without the assistance of a high magnifying power. p 2 52. Gray on Sponges. when it is broke transversely it appears to be formed irregularly ; and in the Tethya the spicule are very large, and are felted to- gether, with their points towards the surface, into a hollow sub- globular form, so that it is in fact originally a tubercle, formed of one series of spicule, which from the intervention of new spicule between the old ones, increases in diameter, and thus produces the central space. The spicule of species which I examined had the base slightly cut into two or three radiating processes. Notwithstanding I so strongly urge the placing of this family amongst the Alge, yet I own that I do not know any exactly simi- larly formed vegetable*, although they agree more with them than any known animals; in fact they appear from their internal struc- ture to approach some of the acicular crystalline substances of the mineral kingdom. * Except, perhaps, from the description, Echinella acuta of Lingby, which appears to be similar, and his figure of the granule, ashe calls them, corresponds with the spicule of several sponges, except that I have not observed any trans- verse lines in them, but there has been a difficulty to which kingdom this genus belongs ; it is now almost generally considered as a vegetable. Art. IV. Description of a new species of Emarginula. By Tuomas Bett, Esq. F.L.S. Emarcinuta. Lamarck. Rosea. E. testa ovatd, cancellutd, epidermide fusco indutd, in- tus rosea; vertice acuto, valde recurvo vel subinvo- luto ; margine fisso. This shell is readily distinguished from E. Fissura by the greater curvature of the apex, by being at least as high as it is long, and by the delicate rose colour of the inside in the adult. There is a white line within the shell, running from the fissure to the apex, formed by the gradual obliteration of the fissure, as the shell is in- creased. The animal does not appear to differ from that of EH. Fissura. ’ Found in Poole harbour, where I took three specimens of dif- ferent sizes, last autumn, in dredging. Plate 4, fig.1. Sowerby on the Lamarckian Naiades. 53 Art. V. Description of a new species of Inrp1n 4. Inip1na Nitotica. D’ Audebard. I. testa crassiuscula, transversim elongata, anticé attenuata ; posticé producta, latiore ; margine cardinali subarcuato edentulo, sub umbonibus irregulariter et obsoleté subundulato: margine ba~ sali sub-emargiuato. ‘Tab. 2. Diam. 1:6. Length?2°1, Breadth 56. From Senaar. Mr. Cailliaud.* Tn general form the present shell very closely resembles I. elon- gata, figured in Sowerby’s Genera of Shells, No. 7, but its hinge margin is not crenulated or dentated. Our specimens of this valu- able shell were sent to England by the learned author of the Mol- lusques terrestres et fluviatiles. Shell rather thick, transversely elongated, anterior side atte- nuated, posterior produced, broader; hinge line rather arched, without teeth, obsoletely and irregularly undulated beneath the umbones: base slightly emarginate. * See Bulletin general des annonces et des nouvelles scientifiques, 10th livr. p, 45, Arr. VI. Some observations on the Lamarckian Naiades,* and the propriety of uniting them all under one generic name. By.G, B. Sowensy, F.L.S. The difficulty of ascertaining to which genus of Lamarckian Naiades certain species belong, arises from the very general si- milarity in form, colours, eroded umbones, compound muscular impressions, and also in the structure and habits of the animals which inhabit them: in fact, an examination of a sufficient num- ber of species will prove that no dependance can be placed upon the characters by which authors usually attempt to discriminate ¥ Naiades, a term used in Botany, and therefore, perhaps, not convenient in Zoology. 54 Sowerby on the Lamarckian Naiades. between these genera, and that the transition from one to another is so gradual in some instances, and so strongly marked in others, that it is not surprising that authors who having only met with cer- tain species, and not being aware of such intermediate links, should have considered them as the types of new genera. That this has been the case with Lamarck’s Iridina, is abundantly proved, as we think, by the species which we have published in the present number, which being destitute of the remarkable cre- nulations that according to Lamarck form the principal character of that genus, should have been considered as an Anodon, did it not possess all the other peculiarities of Lamarck’s Iridina exotica, and of ourl. elongata. Such characters should not therefore be ele- vated to the rank of generic distinctions. Alasmodonta* of Say, Dipsas of Leach, Hyria and Castalia of Lamarck, are all sepa- rated from Unio, as we are about to demonstrate, upon characters of no more importance, because upon such characters we should. be warranted in raising alinost every strongly marked species into a genus. It is remarkable that all the authors we have consulted haye ob- served how nearly related all the genera that have hitherto been formed of the Naiades are, and also the similarity of their ani- mals ; Lamarck particularly observes that the Anedontes are so nearly related to the Uniones that they could not be distinguished except by the characters of the hinge ; but we shall see that there are Naiades not only without teeth, as Anodon; witha crenulated hinge line, as Iridina ; with wings and elongated hinge teeth and lateral teeth, as Hyria ; and with short hinge teeth and lengthened lateral teeth, as Unio: but also that there are others, with small undulations at the hinge, (Unio Anodontina Lam. Anodon rugo- sus Swains.) intermediate between Anodon and Unio: with scarcely any appearance of crenulations along the hinge line, (Iridina Ni- lotica) intermediate between Anodon and Iridina: with hinge teeth only, ( Alasmodonta of Say and Unio glabratus ? Sow.) inter- mediate between Unio and Anodon: with a large wing and no teeth, (_dAnodon alatus, Sow.) between Hyria and Anodon: with a wing and short hinge teeth, (Unio alatus auct.) between Unio * More correctly Alasmodon. Sowerby oz the Lamarckian Naiades. 55 and Hyria: with two wings and a lamelliform tooth on each side the umbo, (Dépsas of Leach) between Anodon and Hyria: and with lateral teeth and rather elongated cardinal teeth, (Castalia ‘ambigua, Lam.) between Unio and Hyria. The same shades of difference occur also in the forms of the shells as well as in their thickness ; but in these respects, as well as in the thickness of their hinge teeth, each species appears to be subject to very great variation, for which reason we shall not enter further ‘into particulars. Moreover, we think we have already said enough to prove that unless it be thought wise to elevate cach of the peculiar sorts we have mentioned, and many more, into distinct genera, it will be positively necessary to unite them altogether ‘under one generic appellation : we propose Unio as equally appli- cable to all; and we here annex a tabular view of the divisions of the genus as far as our observations have pointed them out ; further divisions may probably be found useful in arranging the species, which may arise out of the oblique or straight position of the hinge teeth: and such other characters as are not subject to variation or purely specific. UNIO. { f hinge line simple Anodontes, Lam. —— slichtly crenulated E zt bie not “at cho umbones ‘ Irid. Nilotica, Sow, A winged crenulated Iridine species. without teeth { Heated Anodon rugosus, Sw. Unio anodontina. Lam. Anodon alatus, Sw. & Lam. A. crassus, Sw. winged ————___________ ; lamelliform lateral teeth only. Dipsas. inced J /amelliform cardinal and lateral teeth. Hyrie. MRE lamelliform lateral and short cardinal UBS Sn Bae Ceres a ee oe ee Unio alatus, Sw, B lamelliform lateral and nearly obso- with teeth riot lete cardinal teeth............ Unio fragilis, Sw, a iti lamelliform lateral & short cardinal teeth Unio. S baring ie lateral & long cardinal teeth. Castalia, Lam, cardinal teeth only. Alasmodontes. Mysca of Turton is the same as Unio of Authors: his Unio is synonymous with AJasmodon of Say. 56 Sowerby on Helices Art. VII. Descriptions, accompanied by figures of several Helices, discovered by T. E. Bownicu, Esq. at Porto Sanio.* By G. B. Sowersy, F.L.S, 1. HELIX sub-plicata; testa longitudinaliter subplicata, sub- globos4, anfractibus tribus, ventricosis, superioribus minimis, su- turis distinctis, apertura ampla, orbiculari, peristomate continuo, paululim reflexo. Axis. 13, diam. 1} unc. Tab. iii, f. 1. Shell nearly globose, slightly plicated longitudinally, spire rather prominent ; volutions three, ventricose, increasing rapidly in size 5 sutures distinct ; aperture large, orbicular, lip continued all round, a little thickened, and scarcely reflected. 2. Helix punctuluta: testa subglobosi, spira breviuscula, an- fractibus subquinis, ventricosis ; suturis distinctis, depressiuculis ; apertura mediocri, peristomate non continuo, basi reflexo, umbi- licum minimum fere tegente ; superficie punctulis minutissimis confertis aspersi. Axisi, diam. S unc. Tab.iii. f.2. Shell nearly globose, witha short spire ; volutions from four to five, ventricose ; suture distinct, rather depressed, forming an in- distinct shoulder at the upper part of the volutions ; aperture mid- dling, peristome not continued all round, its lower part reflected and nearly covering the very small umbilicus. Shell covered all over with very minute, closely set, raised dots. Colour dull chest- nut, the lower part of the last volution and a nearly central band of a brownish yellow. 3. Helix nivosa; testa subglobosa, striis longitudinalibus exili- bus ornata, spira productiore, anfractibus quinis, ventricosis, su- * In offering to our readers these descriptions and figures, we beg not to be understood as pledging ourselves for the fact of their being all hitherto unde- seribed. Mr. Bowdich considers them as new: we believe he is correct; and they appear to us interesting, we have therefore to express our thanks to Mr. Bowdich that he has permitted us to make use of them; and also for allow- ing us to make extracts from his manuscript entitled ‘* Excursions in Madeira and Porto Santo,” in our possession. We have examined De Ferussac’s mag- nificent work ‘* Des Mollusques terrestres et fluviatiles,” and we certainly do not find engravings of any of the above described Helices there, Ep. from Porto Santo. 57 turis distinctissimis; apertura orbiculari, peristomate continuo, externo subreflexo, interno incrassato. Axis 3, diam. } unc. Tab. ili. f. 3. . Shell subglobose, spire rather prominent ; volutions from four to five, ventricose, with numerous slender longitudinal striz ; suture very distinct ; aperture orbicular, peristome continuous, the outer part turned a little back, the inner thickened. Pale testaceous with flakes of white. 4. Helix nitidiuscula ; testa subdiscoided, exilissimé longitudi- naliter striata, spira prominula, anfractibus senis, ventricosis, ni- tidiusculis ; suturis distinctis: apertura sub-orbiculari, peristo- mate continuo, simplice; umbilico mediocri. Axis 3, diam. = unc. Tab. iii, f. 4. Shell ffattish with a somewhat prominent spire consisting of six volutions, which are ventricose, rather shining, and very finely striated longitudinally ; suture strongly marked ; aperture nearly orbicular, with a simple peristome ; umbilicus not very large. Our specimen is white with 3 brown bands on the upper half of the last volution. 5. Helix Porto-sanctane ; testa feré discoidea, umbilicata, lon- gitudinaliter striata; spira subprominula; anfractibus quinis, ventricosis ; suturis distinctis, apertura suborbiculari ; peristomate continuo, reflexo, prominente. Axis 3, diam. 1g unc, Tab. iii. ae Shell almost discoid, umbilicated ; spire rather prominent ; vo- lutions five, ventricose, longitudinally striated ; suture distinct ; aperture rather elliptical; peristome continuous, reflected, promi- nent. Two varieties in colour are figured, one nearly white, with very light brown bands, and the other tawny with three darker bands. ‘The animal is rather short and of a pale reddish grey colour. 6. Helix Tectiformis; testa spira brevi, rotundata ; anfractibus subseptenis, supra leviter striatis, medio carinatis, carina deflexa ; subtus umbilicataé subdepressa, anfractu ultimo rotundato, granu- Jato; apertura elongata, subquadrata, labio subtus expanso, re- flexo. Axis §, diam.iiunc. Tab. iii, f. 6. This shell is naturally divided into two parts by the carina of 58 Sowerby on several new the middle of its volutions ; the upper part or spire is rounded ; yolutions six to seven, slightly striated ; keel in the middle, turned down ; lower part umbilicated, rather depressed, volution round~- ed, granulated ; aperture subquadrate, a little elongated: lower part of the lip rather spread and turned downwards. 7. Helix bicarinata ; testa subglobosa, spira breviuscula, subco- nica; aufractibus quinque quadratis, mediane carinis duabus, su- periore obtusiuscula: apertura integra, rotunda, peristomate dis- tincto: umbilico parvo. Axis 3, diam. junc. Table iii. fs 7. A minute species of a rather globular form, with a shortish, slightly conical spire composed of five squarish volutions, having two central carine, of which the upper one is rather obtuse : aper- ture entire, round, peristome distinct; umbilicus small. The surface is remarkable for being covered with a granular epidermis. This and another minute species which we have represented at f. $is common at Porto Santo: the latter shell differs from our H, bicarinata in the absence of the keels, and a little in general form —we have not ventured to name it because it so nearly resembles several other minute species that we cannot be quite certain of its characters. Arr. VIII. Descriptions, accompanied by figures, of se- veral new species of Shells. By G. B.Sowenny, F.L.S. 1. Bulimus zosfoma; Testa oblongiusculaé, spira breviuscula, obtusa, anfractibus quinque subventricosis, levitér striatis, subvio- lascente-griscis ; apertura oblonga, longitudine spiram zquante, intus pallide violacea, peristomate incrassato, reflexo, continuo, violaceo: aufractu ultimo parte inferiore intus saturate castaneo. Axis 23, diam. 17 unc. Tab.v, f. 1. Shell rather oblong, with a shortish, obtuse spire of five some- what ventricose volutions, of a violet grey colour and slightly stri- ated; aperture oblong, of the same length as the spire, and of a pale violet colour within. Peristome thickened, reflected, conti- Species of Shells. ‘59 nuous, violaceous : lower part of the last volution within the wii tome of a deep chestnut colour. Only three or four specimens of this shell have been brought to this country, one of which has fallen into our hands. We do not know its locality. 2. Bulimusgoniostoma ; testa oblong’, turrité, apice obtusius- culo; anfractibus subsenis, castaneis, longiusculis, subyentricosis, ad suturas depressiusculis, superficie eleganter confertissimé gra- nulosa ; apertura oblonga, utrinque acutiuscula, ad basim subca- naliculata ; peristomate incrassato. reflexo, continuo, parte libera rubra, columellari alba ; aufractu ultimo ad basim oblique carinato, umbilicato: umbilicus plicam columellarem internam efformans. Axis 23, diam. Zunc. Long. aperture 14, unc. Tab.v, f. 2. A very bad uncoloured figure of this shell is given in Mawe’s Travels in Brazil; De Ferussac has named it as above, but we do not find a description of itanywhere. From Brazil. Shell oblong, turrited, point rather obtuse : volutions from 6 to 7, of a chestnut colour, rather lengthened, slightly ventricose, a little depressed at the sutures; surface elegantly covered with close-set and very minute granulations : aperture oblong, rather pointed at both ends, the base almost formed into a canal : peris- tome thickened, reflected, continuous; all the free part bright red ; columellar lip white: last volution obliquely keeled at its base, umbilicated ; umbilicus forming a columellar fold within the mouth. 7 3. Bulimus odontostoma; Testa turrita, longitudinaliter ob- liqué striata, striis exilibus, confertis; anfractibus senis, tribus superioribus minimis, rotundatis, levibus; inferioribus subven- tticosis ; suturis distinctis; apertura sinuosa, peristomate reflexo, continuo, integro, distincto, intus dentibus octo instructo, tribus in labio externo, tribus, quorum duo connati, in labio columel- lari, uno in angulo superiore et uno in angulo inferiore : anfractu ultimo bicarinato, carina superiore aa angulum inferiorem umbilici parvi, obliqui, efformante. Axis 1-4,,diam.,4; unc. Tab. Vg 8.3: A few specimens of this new shell have been sent us from Rio 145 Janeiro, where it appears to be exceedingly scarce, 60 Sowerby on several new Shells. ‘Shell turrited, with fine close-set, longitudinal oblique striz 5 volutions six, the three upper ones small, rounded, smooth; the lower volutions rather ventricose; sutures distinct ; aperture si- nuous, obtusely angulated above and below, peristome reflected, continuous, entire, no part of it adhering to the last volution, hav- ing eight teeth within, three in the outer lip, three, of which two grow together, in the inner lip, one in the upper and one in the lower angle ; last volution bicarinated, the upper carina small, forming the lower angle of the small, oblique umbilicus. 4. Natica patula ; Testa suborbicularis, subdiscoidea, spira brevissima, anfractibus quatuor, superioribus feré obtectis, ulti- mo maximo, superné rotundato, subtus rotundato-carinato 5; um- bilico patulo, callo columellari spirali, apice planulato: apertura magna, ultimo aufractu superne interrupta, infra oblique producta, A single specimen of this shell has been kindly lent to us by Mr. Millard, of Bristol, who is not acquainted with its locality: we have seen another specimen in Mr. De Ferussac’s collection, which was brought from South America by M. De Humboldt. Shell suborbicular, rather discoid, with a very short spire ; vo- lutions four, the upper ones nearly covered, the last very large, rounded above and its lower edge rather keeled, with a very rounded keel; umbilicus spreading, its columellar callus spiral, flattened at its lower end : aperture large, interrupted at its upper part by the last volution, obliquely produced at the lower part. 5. Melania levissima. ‘Testa oblonga acuté conica, anfractibus Septenis, convexiusculis, levissimis, olivaceis, longitudinaliter in- terrupté fusco-fasciatis ; suturis levibus ; apertura suboblonga, su- perne acuta ; labio columellari, precipué superné, incrassato. Shell oblong, acutely conical, whorls seven, slightly convex, very smooth, olive green, with interrupted longitudinal dark brown bands ; sutures smooth ; aperture rather oblong, upper part pointed ; columellar lip thickened, particularly at its upper ex- tremity. This shell was found in abundance adhering to the stones form- ing the bed of the rivulet (Rio de Ja Guayra) which runs through La Guayra. Two specimens have been presented to the British Museum, by Dr. N. R. Cheyne. Gray on Balea. 61 Art. IX. On Balea, by Mr. Joun Evwarp Gray. Ox ty one species of this subgenus has been noticed by De Ferrussac in his Synopsis, where he has placed it in a section with Turbo elongatus Chemnitz, ix. 112. f. 956, which differs in having the peristome thickened and reflected like the Clausiliw, but has no teeth or clausium. Barea. Prideaux Mss. * Testa spiralis turrita, anfractibus numerosis adpressis paul atim majoribus, axe (columella) perforato: apertura sinistrali peris- tomate incompleto, tenui, labie subuniplicato. Testa tenui concentricé obsolete sulcata, epidermide fusca, levi. This subgenus forms a very distinct group in the family of the Helices near Clausilia, from which it differs in the peristome and want of the Clausium. 1. Balea fragilis. Testa sublineari-ovata pellucida flavescente. Turbo perversus, Lin. Sys. Nat. 1240. Gmelin. Montagu Test. Brit. 355. Maton Lin. Trans. viii. 181. Dorset, Cat. 51. Turt. Conch. Dict. 226. Dillwyn R. S. Pupa fragilis. Drap. Moll. Helix perversa. Ferussac Synop.n. 511. Balea lucifuga. Leach Mss. Icon. List. An. Ang.t.2.£.172 Schroet. Einl. Conch. t. 1. £.52 Favanne, t.65.f.5. 4. Mont. t.11.f.12! Trans. Lin. Soc. viii. t. 5.f.2! Dorset Cat. t. 19: f. 11. Moss at the root of trees, Europe, Great Britain, Mus, Brit. Sowerby, Nostr.° Shell spiral, nearly linear ovate, turrited, pellucid yellowish whorles many, obsoletely concentrically furrowed, close pressed, gradually enlarging; columella perforated. Mouth to the left; peristome incomplete, thin, inner lip when perfect with a small pleatlike tooth near the middle, axis 3,, diameter 1, of an inch. 2. Balea Tristensis. 62 Gray on Helicina. Testa subulata ovata, fusca. Balea tristensis. Leach Mss. Tristan d’ A’Cunha. Capt. Carmichael. Mus. Brit. Nostr. Shell, subulato-ovate reddish brown, axis ;4,, diameter 4, of an inch. - 3. Balea ventricosa. Testa lanceolato-ovata, pallide fusca. ~ Balea ventricosa. Leach Mss. Brit. Mus. Tristan d’? A’Cunha. Capt. Carmichael. Mus. Brit. Nostr. Shell, lanceolato-ovate, pale brown, axis 3, diameter 2, of an inch. Art. X. Monograph of the Genus Helicina, by Mr. Joun Epwarp Gray. Hexicina. Lamarck Sys. but not of De Montford. Olygyra. Say. Amer. Conch. Char. dif. Animal unisexuale, capite et disco distinctis, ten- taculis duobus contractilibus, oculis subsessilibus, cavitate pul- monali aperta. Pallii marginibus incrassatis. Operculo annulato corneo. Testa spiralis, apertura semi-orbiculaté. Peristomate reflexo columella basi callosa. - Animal head distinct, beak short, apex two lipped. Tentacula two, filiform, contractile, eyes two, nearly sessile, at the outer base of the tentacula. - Respiratory cavity open, lined by the reticulated pulmonary vessels, Body spiral. Mantle, edge thickened, free, ventral disk, or sucker tongue-shaped, adductor muscle attached to the columella. Organs of reproduction distinct, the sexes on separate in- dividuals. Operculum annular, horny or very thin shelly ; nucleus nearly central, placed rather towards the innerside. Gray on Helicina. 63° Shell spiral, depressed, ovate, imperforated, whorls rapidly enlarging, the last one slightly keeled; aperture regular, semi- orbicular, Peristome thickened, reflected, base of the columella callous, slightly pitted, becoming smooth. History. This genus has been involved in considerable obs- curity, as no Linnean author has taken notice of any of its species. Patrick Brown in his excellent History of the Island of Jamaica, is; I believe, the first person who has mentioned any species of’ this genus; he describes and figures four, under the name of: Cochlea; but he appears to have included and figured’ Nassa neritina as a species of the same genus, and a nape | con= sidered it as a land shell. Sloane in his History of the West Indian Islands, has a figure, which may perhaps belong to this genus, but like most of his other figures, it is so badly executed, that there's is no certainty to. which species or even genus it belongs. . ' Lister has two figures, which appear to be referable to this- genus, but they both appear to be the same species, at least, it is’ very doubtful to what species the figure quoted by Lamarck is to’ be referred, if it is not the same as the other. Lamarck in his’ Systema, took notice of the above mentioned figure of Lister and formed a genus of it ; in his Histoire he has added the description’ of four species, one of which has not fallen under’my notice. Say, on the article Conchology, published in the American edi- tion of Nicholson’s Encyclopceedia, has described another, which Ihave not seen. Ferussac has noticed and figured a very remark- able species, under the name of Helix Aureola, which must have arisen from his only having observed dead discoloured individuals, for some of our specimens have the opercula, which is the first time that a shell with a dentated aperture has been found oper- culated ; the species described in Brown, he appears never to have seen, as he places them in his catalogue of unknown species. We have described sixteen species. This genus should be placed near to Cyclostoma, as both genera have the same kind of animal, except that, as de Ferussac observes, this has the edge of the mantle thickened and formed 64 Gray on Helicinia. into a collar, which is not the case with Cyclostoma, and they appear to form a family, intermediate between the Helicide and Turbinidez ; it seems to be connected with Cyclostoma by means of C. patulum ; which has arather semiorbicular mouth, and an. horny operculum apparently spiral. In consequence of Lamarck refering only to Lister’s figure, which has not been taken notice of by any preceding concholo- gists, most of the English collectors, and even De Montfort, have considered the Trochus Vestiarius, Lamarck’s Rotella, as the type of this genus. Say, the best of the American conchologists, was not aware of its existence, and therefore formed a new one under the name of Oligyra, for a shell that -certainly belongs to this, although I have not seen it. Dr. Leach appears to have been equally ignorant of what Lamarck meant, as in his progress of Zoology, published in Thomson’s Annals of Philosophy, he does not ob- serve that Say’s and Lamarck’s genera were synonymous: but refers the latter to the family Auriculadez, most likely accident- ally; and De Ferrussac, who frequently quotes Say’s work, does not take any notice of the synomyn in his Tableau systema- tique. Division.—It may be divided into five sections, which are partly artificial; but there are certainly many other species as yet undescribed :— | Peristomate edentulo. *integro **postice subaculeato. ***postice emarginato v. fisso. Peristomate sinuato. **** columella basi callosa. Peristomate dentato. ***** columella basi concava. Shell. Peristome reflected, toothless, entire, operculum not appendiced. 1. Helicina pulchella, Testa (subgloboso-conoidea) lutea, interrupte rufo-tri-fasciata, supra conica, spiraliter albido-rugosa, infra convexa, spiraliter striata, Gray on Helicina. 65 albida bifasciata, peristomate tenui, reflexo, albo, rufo trimaculato, labio subincrassato, operculo testaceo. West Indies, Mrs. Gray. Mus. Brit. Sowerby, Nost. Shell yellowish, with three interrupted and sometimes obscure reddish bands; above conical, with white rugose spiral lines, whorls rather convex; beneath convex, spirally striated, with two interrupted white bands. Peristome thin, reflected, white, the outer lip much extended, with three reddish spots where the bands end, the under lip slightly'thickened; operculum very thin, shelly, polished ; axis =4,, diameter ;5, of an inch. 2. Helicina neritella. Testa levis (depresso-ovata) albida, fusco-bifasciata, supra conica, purpureo-fasciata vel marmorata, subtus convexa; peristomate in- crassato, reflexo, luteo, columella labiisque callosis, luteis ; oper- culum corneum. Helicina neritella. Lamarck Hist. vi. 103. Lister Conch. t. 61, f. 59. t. 74, f. 73, junior, peristomate _tenui, columella \utea, foveolata.. West Indies, Barbadoes. Lister. Shell depressed ovate, smooth, whitish (or lilac) with two nar- row brown bands; above conical, variegated or banded with purple ; whorls, scarcely convex; beneath rather convex, peristome thickened, reflected, yellow,. columella and inner lip thickened, yellow, inside white with purplish bands, operculum horny, brown with a white shelly edge on. the inner side; axis. 33, diameter 2, of an inch. When young it is entirely purplish, with a few obscure darker bands, the lips are thin, and the-columella is callous, yellow, with a small pit; when bleached the. shell is white with two. dark bands. This appears, from its yellow columella, to be the species de- ‘scribed by Lamarck, but his character is very obscure ; like most of the genus, it varies greatly in size. * 3. Helicina fasciata. Testa depresso-ovata, albida, levis, tenuis, pellucida; supra con- vexa, interrupte rufo-fasciata; subtus sub-convexa, rufo lineata, peristomate incrassato, reflexo, albo, columella labiisque callosis, albis; operculo corneo. Vou. I. E 66 Gray on fHelicina. Helicina fasciata. Lamarck Hist. vi. 103. West Indies, Porto Rico. Maugé. Mus. Nost. Shell depressed ovate, whitish, smooth, thin, pellucid ; above convex, with a broad interrupted reddish line, beneath rather “ convex, with a narrow red line near the upper part. Peristome thickened, white, slightly reflected; columella, base and inner lip thickened, white; inside whitish. Operculum thin, horny, polished ; axis 2,, diameter 3, of an inch. 4. Helicina substriata. @ Testa depresso-ovata lutescente-albida, subcarinata, supra con- vexa, distanter spiraliter substriata, subtus subconvexa, levis; Peristomate incrassato, reflexo (albido?) columella labiisque in- crassatis, callosis, (albidis ?) Cochlea n. 14. Brown Jam. t. 40, f.4? West Indies. Mus. Nost. Shell depressed ovate, yellowish with a white keel-like band on the centre, above convex, with a few distant spiral strie, be- neath rather convex, smooth ; the. peristome thickened, reflected, columella and inner lip callous (white ?) I have only one specimen of this shell, which is perfectly dis- tinct from all the rest, it appears to be rather worn and bleached, + so that the peristome may be yellow, and the stria more Racial when perfect. 5. Helicine Braziliensis. Testa depresso-ovata (albida?) spiraliter striata, et minuté con- centricé cancellata, supra et subtus convexa; peristomate sub- incrassato, labiis subincrassatis, columella basi excavata, carinata, Brazil. Mr. G. B. Sowerby. Shell depressed ovate, (white ?) spirally striated, cancellated with minute close concentric strie, spire convex, beneath rather convex, peristome slightly thickened, reflected, inner lip slightly thickened, the base of the columella with a triangular sharp-edged excavation. Mr. G. B, Sowerby, has shewn me many gcvonon of this shell, and they all agree in the form of the base of the columella,, or I should have been inclined to consider them as the yA of. some other species. ; Gray on Helicina 67 6. Helicina costata. Testa depresso-ovata, lutea, spiraliter striato-costata, spira conica, subtus subconvex4; peristomate incrassato subreflexo, luteo, labiis subincrassatis. Shell, depressed ovate, yellow, spirally rib-striated, ribs convex, those of the upper part broadest, becoming smaller and closer near the columella, spire conical, acute, beneath subconvex, peristome slightly thickened and somewhat reflected, yellow ; the inner lip slightly thickened, columella scarcely callous; axis 3., diameter =. of an inch. 7. Helicina viridis. Testa depresso-ovata, angulata, carinata, viridis, nitida, levis, tenuis, carina albido-lutea, spird convexa ; subtus convexiuscula, peristomate luteo, reflexo, subincrassato, labiis tenuibus; colu- mella basi callosa, alba. Helicina viridis. Lamarck, Hist. vi. 103. Saint Domingo, Lamarck. mee G. a Sowerby: Mus. Sowerby, Goodall. Shell depressed ovate, angularly keeled, thin, polished, green, the keel whitish yellow, spire convex; beneath vatlier convex, the peristome scarcely thickened, reflected, yellow, inner lip scarcely visible, very thin, base of the columella callous, white; axls &, diameter 14 of an inch. This Beantifal shell appears to be a perfect specimen of atte one described by Lamarck, but is much larger. ** Peristome’ rejiected, columella callous, Lith behind - subspinose or sinuated, operculum simple. 8. Helicina aurantia. Testa sub-depresso-ovata, subglobosa, levis, albido rufescens, unifasciata ; peristomate incrassato, reflexo, aurantio; columella callosa; aperture angulo columellari subtuberculato. West Indies. Shell rather depressed ovate, somewhat globular, purplisl white, with a narrow reddish brown banda little behind the centre, so as to revolve near the suture of the spire, and sometimes a few faint reddish lines near the base-of the columella, peristome thickened, reflected, orange red, inner lip slightly thickened, the E2 68 Gray on Helicina. angle of the aperture next the columella callous, produced into a small tubercle ; axis 3,, diameter 4, of an inch. 9. Helicina rhodostoma. Testa subdepresso-carinata, punctulata, albida, rufescente mar- morata, carina albida ; peristomate in¢rassato, reflexo, rufo-auran- tiaco ; angulo columellari producto, spinoso ; columella callosa. Guadaloupe. Mus. J. Sowerby. Shell rather depressed, conical, keeled, minutely punctulated and scratched, whitish, marbled with brownish, the keel white, sharp, peristome thickened, especially in the hinder part, much extended and reflected, of a fine reddish orange, slightly pro- duced in the front part close to the columellar angle into a sharp recurved spine, the columella is callous and of the same colour as the lips ; axis 3, diameter 4 an inch. *** Peristome reflected, simple, columella callous, aperture with a groove and notch or slit at the columellar angle. Opercu- lum horny with a process that fitsinto the groove. 10. Helicina major. Testa depresso-ovata subglobosa, fuscesens, levis, spira convexa ; subtus convexiuscula pallida, peristomate incrassato, albo, reflexo ; angulo columellari obtysé emarginato ; labiis incrassatis pallidis. —— Mus. Sowerby. m Shell depressed ovate, nearly globular, brownish, smooth, spire convex, upper part purplish, front rather convex, pale, the peris- tome thickened, white, reflected, with a slight blunt notch near the columellar angle, the inner lip thickened, convex, pale ; axis +, diameter 2. Differs from the following by the lip being more reflected, and the whorls rounder and smooth. 11. Helicina submarginata. Testa depresso-ovata obscurissimé carinata, albido-fusca, con- _ centricé substriata, spira convexa, distanter spiraliter substriata ; subtus convexiuscula levigata, peristomate subincrassato parum reflexo, labiis subincrassatis ; aperture angulo columellari sub- emarginato. Shell depressed ovate, very obscurely keeled, whitish brown, rather darker above, concentrically striated, spire convex, very Gray on Helicina. 69 slightly and distantly, spirally striated ; beneath rather convex, smooth; peristome slightly thickened, and scarcely reflected, inner lip thickened, angle of the aperture next the columella with a slight notch; axis ~, diameter 7%, of an inch. 12.. Helicina unifasciata. ‘ Testa subdepresso-ovata, obscure, acuté carinata, albida, fusco unifasciata, Spiraliter subcostata, striata; spira convexa, conica, subtus convexa ; peristomate incrassato reflexo; aperture angulo columellari obtuse emarginato. Shell rather depressed ovate, whitish, with a rather sharp keel-like ridge, and narrow brown band round the centre of the last whorl spirally; rather rib-like striated, the strie convex, rather distant ; spire conical convex; beneath convex, the peris- tome thickened, reflected, the columellar angle of the aperture with a blunt notch; axis 4, diameter 5°, of an inch. 13. Helicina Brownit. Testa depresso-ovata, pallide fusca, levis, pellucida, supra con- vexa, subtus convexiuscula, peristomate incrassato, reflexo albo ; columella labiisque subincrassatis, albidis, aperture angulo colu- mellari fisso ; operculo anticé appendiculato, corneo. Cochlea,n. 11. Brown Jam. t. 40, f. 1. West Indies, Jamaica. Brown. Mus. Brit. Sow. Nostr. Shell depressed ovate, pale brown, smooth, pellucid, above convex, beneath rather convex, the peristome thickened, reflected, white, the columella and inner lip whitish, slightly thickened, the front part of the aperture near the columellar angle with a (spirally) curved slit. Operculum horny with a process fitting the slit. This very curious shell might, at first sight, appear to forma different genus, but the shape of the aperture of the former sections, shews that the separation would be unnecessary and unnatural. **** Peristome reflected, sinuated ; columetla callous at the base, operculum simple. 14. Helicinadepressa. Testa depresso-ovata, pelluida, fusca, tenuissima, spiraliter et concentrice striata, supra subtusque conyexiuscula ; peristomate 70 Gray on Helicina. reflexo, incrassato, albo; columella partim callosa, labiis tenuibus, posticé subunidentatis. West Indies. Mountains, woods. Mus. Nost. Shell very depressed, ovate, pellucid, brown, very finely spirally and concentrically striated, above and below rather convex. Pe- ristome thickened, reflected, white, with two sinuations where the teeth are in the next section, base of the columella eovered over, but not convex: inner lip thin, with a small tooth at the back angle of the aperture. Axis nearly 3,, diameter , of an inch. , *EEEE Peristome reflected, two-toothed: base of the columella concave, imperforate ; operculum simple. 15. Helicina aureola, Testa depresso-ovata, spira conica, subtus subconyexa, fusca, spiraliter striata, striis albidis, rugosis. Peristomate reflexo, in- crassato, albo, bidentato ; columella basi concava. Cochlea n. 12. Brown Jam.t. 40, f. 3. 8. excoriata. ‘Testa aurantia vel flava. Helix aureola. Ferrussac Hist. de Moll. n.90, tab. Shell depressed ovate, spire conical, beneath rather convex, brown, finely spirally striated, striae white, rugose, transversely subplicate, peristome thickened, reflected, white, with two teeth, one in the front aud one at the base of the aperture, base of the columella concave, imperforate; axis 3, diameter 3, of an inch, This shell is brown when complete, but when the epidermis is worn off it becomes orange or pale yellowish, according to the degree of bleaching to which it has been exposed. The following species, which certainly belong to this genus, I have not seen, and therefore have copied their descriptions from the work in which they are mentioned. 16. Helicina orbiculata. ** Shell, sub-globular, spire not prominent, but more than con- vex, lateral line somewhat convex, whorls five, obsoletely striated across, regularly rounded; colour, pale greenish, yellowish, or slightly tinted with reddish, particularly on the body, and mar- gined above by an obsolete white line, on the middle of the body a white vitta revolves, sometimes. obscure or wanting, aper- Monograph on the Cypreeidew, by Mr. Gray. 71 ture acute above, regularly rounded at the base, and extending from the centre of the revolutions or base of the column, to an equidistance between the base and apex of the spire, base of the columella slightly projecting into an obtuse angle, exterior lip whitish, reflected, length + of an inch. “¢ Animal paie, rostrum and tentacula blackish, operculum simple, not spiral, yellowish brown, minutely granulated.” Oligyra orbiculata. Say Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci. p. 283. Amer. Conch. Fast Florida. Say. Helicina striata. Testa depresso-ovata, tenuis, subpellucida, oblique striata, albi- da; columella lutescente, labro margine subreflexo. Lamarck Hist. vi. 103. Porto Rico. Maugé. Diameter five lines. Art. XI. Monograph on the Cyprawidew, a Family of Testaceous Mollusca; by Mr. Joun Eywarv Gray. Cyprxines. Concha. Martial. Concharum Veneris pars, Lister Conch. Por- cellana. Gualtier. Martini. Cyprzarum et Bullarum pars, Linn. Partie des Buccinoidés, Cuvier. Partie des Sipbonobranches, Dumeril. Goldfuss. Par- tie des enroulées, Lamarck. Partie des apomastomes enroulées, Ferussac. Angyostomes involvés, Blainville. Cuar. pir. Animal, unisexuale, capite et disco distinctis. Ten- taculis duobus conico-subulatis, oculis sessilibus; branchiis pec- tinatis, pallio margine reflexo; operculo nullo. Testd non sym- metrica subinvoluta demum corticaia. Apertura elongata, lineari extremitate utraque canaliculata. AnrMat unisexual, head distinct, fentacula two, conical, awl- shaped, eyes two, sessile, at the external angle of the base of the tentacula. Respiratory cavity open, over the back of the neck; gélls ina 72 Monograph on the Cyprwidew, by Mr. Gray. longitudinal comb-like series on the inside of the columella or left side of the mantle, edge of the mantle forming a short siphon at each end of the aperture of the shell. Mantle, edges enlarged, wing-like, reflected over the back of the shell and depositing its last coats, the lines of union of the refiexed portions forming the dorsal line of the shell. Ventral disk or sucker tongue-shaped, adductor muscle attached to the columelia. Operculum, none. SuELL, oval or oblong, becoming covered with a fine, shelly, highly polished, or variously striated coat, deposited by the re- flexed lobes of the mantle, leaving a dorsal line or groove. Shelly cone, whorls very rapidly enlarging, revolving ‘nearly on the same plane, so as to exhibit none, or only a small, concave, flat or convex spire. Aperture longitudinal, with a channel or groove at each end. Inner lip flattened or rather concave in front, smooth or be- coming plaited, outer lip becoming involute, thickened, plaited. The shell alters its appearance considerably, according to the age of the individual, and exhibits three very distinct stages. In the young or first stages, which are figured in Ency. Method. t. 349, f.a. 6. Mus, Gotwald, viii. t. 53, b. e. 65, a. f. 66, a.c. the shell is generally smooth, of a plain greyish colour, or with three Jongitudinal bands, and the upper part of the inner lip is smooth, convex, the lower part flat or concave; the oufer lip thin. In the second stage, the shell begins to assume more the character of the genus, as the outer lip begins to be inflected or iather thick- ened, and approaches nearer the perfect appearance of the species as the second coat of colour is deposited; but differs from it in the want of thickness of the shell and the spire being more dis- tinct, and in the want of the dorsal line, which is usually distinct in the third or perfect state, where the last coat has been de- posited, and the aperture is more plaited on both sides, The colouring, or at least, the disposition of the colouring here, is a much more certain characteristic of species, than either the general outline of form or size, the latter of which is exceedingly various. In this family I have often observed full-grown speci- mens of C. arabica from one to three inches long ; this peculiarity Monograph on the Cyproeidee, by Mr. Gray. 73 is attempted to be explained by Lamarck and others, who assert that when the animal has formed a complete shell, as it has not the faculty of enlarging its size, it is obliged to quit its shell and form a new one, in the same manner as the Annulosa cast their skins, and by that means the same animal forms many shells; but I believe there is not the slightest ground for this notion, for these several reasons; 1. If it happens in this genus, it certainly should do so also in several of the other genera, as the Strombi and Pterocerata, where the mouth is fully formed in the small shell, and there is no appearance of varices in the large speci- mens. 2. The muscular attachment of the shell to the animal, is one of the best conchological characters that distinguish this class of animals, from the shelly and sandy cases of the Annulosa ; as the Dentalia and Sabelle, where the animal can withdraw themselves at pleasure ; but in the Mollusca I do not think it pos- sible to be done, but by such force as would destroy the individual. 3. There is no analogy between the cnust_of the crustacea and Annulosa, and the shells of Mollusca, so that it is false reasoning to judge of the possibility of one from the other. History. — Rondeletius mentions 4 species. Gesner 2. Aldrovandus 13. Linneus 51. Gmelin 126, many of which are ‘twice and three times over, Dillwyn, R.S. 81. Lamarck. Ann. Mus. 96. Hist. 98. Geographical Distribution.—They are common to the old and new continent, but generally confined to the warmer climates ; there are but six or seven species found in the European seas. Affinity—This family appears to be allied to the sub-family Cassidee amongst the Buccinoidex, by means of the Cassis Testi- culum, of which Lamarek observes, *‘ ce casque a un peu l’aspect de certains Cyprea;” but the affinity is not slight, for in the shape and form of the aperture, which has a groove or canal at each end, both of the lips plaited, and the front part of the columella flat- tened it accords with those Cypree; but the outer lip is not in- flected, nor is the back of the shell covered with a china-like coat, but with epidermis, and the canal in front of the aperture is recurved. The Ovule on the opposite side the family, have certainly great affinity to the Bullidee, as is pointed out by Linneus, who 74 Monograph on the Cyprwidee, by Mr. Gray. places them all in that genus, but Bulla differs most essentially from them ; in the animals by the position of their branchiz, and their being half hermaphrodite, and in the shell by the aperture being rounded and quite entire at each end, and the edges not being thickened, nor the back covered with a shelly coat, for the shell is here covered with the soldered reflected lobes of the. mantle; the connection is most apparent by means of Ovula patula and Bulla Naucum, in the latter of which there are some slight appearances of a curved canal at each end of the aperture, as in the character of the Cypraidew, but it has not the enamelled back. This family has some analogy in their polished coats, first, to the Marginelle, which induced Montagu to call a species of that genus, Cyprea Voluta ; and indeed such is the affinity be- tween the young of this species, which has been called Bulla diaphana, that Dillwyn has considered it as the young of C. Europea; in which Montagu’ also appears to have coincided, until he observed a totally different construction in the animal ; but I believe that M. persicula is the most analogical species of this genus; and secondly to the Olive which differ essentially in having an operculum, and all the characters of the Buccinoidee. The natural arrangement of this family into sections, I almost despair of, for I have had most of the species lying before me, and have examined them day after day for a fortnight, but have not yet succeeded to my entire satisfaction. I have placed them as well as [ can for the present, and shall therefore, if [_am fortunate enough to discover a better arrangement, lay it before the public; doubtless when further discoveries in this extensive genus shall have rendered our knowledge somewhat more per- fect, such an arrangement will be more easily attainable; as we observe in the late discovery of a new species, which unites the costated Cypree with the Ovule, by having the smooth young state, and the costated shelly coat of that division; but differs from them in the want of the thickened, toothed inner lip, which thus supplies the link which was wanting. This family is divisable into three genera, thus: Cyprxa. Shell, when young, polished, inner lip thickened, plaited, outer lip involute plaited. Monograph on the Cypreidee, by Mr. Gray. 75 - Cyprmovuta. Shell, when young, polished, inner lip simple, outer lip involute, plaited, back costato-striate. Ovuus. Shell, when young, striated, inner lip simple, smooth, outer lip involute, back polished. - CYPRAA. Shelf smooth, polished. *Columella front deeply concave. **Columella front nearly even. ***Shell, edge above denticulated, columella front even. ****Shell, back ribstriated or tubercled, columella front concave.) *Cyprz& Vers. Shell, when young, smooth, banded ; when per- fect, polished, smooth, edge entire, columellar front deep, distinctly concave, mostly plaited, aperture rather dilated, concave. Cyprea Princeps. Testa orbiculato-ovata, gibba, albida, dorso lineolis fuscis ornato, linea dorsali centrali, simplici, basi planulato, jateribus rotundatis, gibbis, pallide incarnatis, fusce-maculatis, extremitatibus concentricé fusco-lineatis. Persian Gulph. Mus. Sowerby. Shell orbicular, ovate, gibbous, whites back ornamented with variously curved, brewn lines; on the upper part of the sides near the centre, are two somewhat square brown blotches, the dorsal line is nearly central, straight ; sides rounded, gibbous, pale flesh colour, with various sized brown spots, the extremities mar- gined, rather produced, with several concentric brown lines, base white, rounded, slightly shelving towards the mouth, Teeth of the inner lip small, close ; columellar front deep; plaits, of the outer lip rather larger, more distant ; whorls partly visible, conical, convex ; inside white,—axis 4, diameter 3 inches. I have only seen one specimen of this beautiful shell, which is called by Humphrey the Brindled Cowry from the Persian Gulph. It appears intermediate between the Maps and the Tigers. Cyprea Mappa. Testa evato-elliptica, albida vel flavescens, lineolis fulvis, guttis- que albidis sparsis ornata ; line’ dorsali ramosa ; basi plana; mar- ginibus rotundatis incrassatis, guttatis ; dentibus luteis. a.—Testa flavescente, lineolis fulvis ornata, linea dorsali ane gusta laterali, lateribus brunveo-subguttatis. 76 Monograph on the Cypreidee, by Mr. Gray. Cypraa Mappa. Lin. Sys. Nat. 1173! Martini p. 340. Born. Mus. 172. Schroet. Einl. p. 95. Gmelin 3397! Schreiber’s Conch. 53. Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv. 449! Hist. vii. 378 Dillwyn, R. S. 438! Icon. Rumph. t. 38, f. B.! Pet. Amb. t. 16, f. 2. Argenville t. 18, f. B. Seda iii. t. 76, f. 3, 13,17. Knorr. t. 26, f. 3. Fav- anne t. 29, f. A. 3. Martini t. 25, f. 245, 246. Pia Meth. t. 353, f. 1. b. rosea. Testa alba lineolis brunneis ornata, linea dorsali lata centrali, lateribus purpureo-guttatis, fauce aurantia. Cyprea Mappa 6. Born.1|.c. Sow. Genera! Inhabits Indian Ocean. African Seas, Linneus. Amboyna, Rumphius. £. Mus. Sowerby. Shell ovate, elliptical convex, yellowish, back ornamented with fulvous lines, leaving pale roundish spots, dorsal line branched, sinuated, with brown lunate spots at the side of the spire, the base flat, margin at the sides rounded, at the extremities slightly pro- duced, spotted with brown; teeth yellowish, of the inner lip small, close; columella deep, rather concave, plaited; of the outer larger and more distant; spire visible, conical, convex ; inside white ; axis 3, diameter 2 inches. This shell varies considerably in being white, with the lines reddish brown, and the dorsal line broad and placed on the side, the base and sides spotted with purple, the teeth and mouth bright yellow, and the extremities pale violet. Cyprea arabica. Testa ovato-elliptica, albida, lineolis fuscis guttisque albidis sparsis ornata, lined dorsali simplici; basi incarnata planulata ; lateribus incrassatis, fusco maculatis, obsoleté angulatis; dentibus fuscis. Cyprea arabica, Lin. Sys. Nat. 1173. Martini f. 398. Schroet. Einl.f.95. Inn. Bau. Conch. 5. Schreiber’s Conch. 54. a. arabica. Testa lineolis distinctis subrectis fuscis ornata. C. arabica. a. Born. Mus. 173. Gmelin 3398. C. arabica, Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv. 449. Hist. vii. 378. Dillwyn R. S. 438. Icon. List. Conch. 658, f. 3. Rumph, t. 38. f.m. Gualtier Monograph on the Cypreidee, by Mr. Gray. 77 t.16,f.v. Knorr. iii. t. 12, f. 2. vi. t. 20, f.2. Martiné i, t. 31, f. 328. Ency. Meth. 552, f. 1, 2. b. intermedia. Testa lineolis subconfluentibus fuscis guttisque irregularibus sparsis ornata ; laterum angulo eminentiore. C. arabica 8B. Lamarck |. c. Icon. Argenville Conch. App. t.2,f. 1. Tavanne t. 29, f. 1, A.2. Martini t. 31, f. 330, 331. Ency. Meth. 352, f. 5. c. histrio. Testa lineolis confluentibus fuscis ornata, albido- guttata, guttis polygonis ; lateribus incrassatis, nigro-maculatis. C. arabica. 8. Born.\.c. Gmelin 3398. Cyprea Histrio. Mis. Gevers. 404 Gmelin 3403. Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv. 450. Hist. vii. 379. Dillwyn, R. 8. 439. Cyprea Arlequina. Chemnitz, x. 110. ° Cyprza Reticulata. Martyn U.C. t. 15. Gmelin 3420 ! (2). Icon. List. Conch t. 659, f. 3. a. Rumphius t. 39, f. R. (2.) Petiver. Amb. t. 16, f. 3. Gaz t. 53, f.6. Knorr. vi. t. 16, f. 1. Chemnitz x. t. 145, f. 1346, 1347. d. depressa. Testa subdepressa, lineolis confluentibus fuscis, ornata, albido-guttata, guttis rotundatis, regularibus, marginibus tumidis. Ency. Meth. t. 351, f. 1. a. b. Be. Junior, Testa ovata, coerulescente, sub-4-fasciata. mi Incompleta. Testa ovata, glauca, testacea, undulata, sub- quadri-fasciata, lateribus submaculatis, extremitatibus fuscis. Cyprea amethystea. Lin. Sys. Nat. 1174. Martini 1. 343. (3.) Schroeter Einl. 1. 106. Gmelin 3404. Cyprza fragilis. Lin. Sys. Nat. 1174. (4.) Schroet. Einl. 1. 106. Gmelin 3404. Icon. List. Conch. t. 662, f. 6.(3). Rumph. t. 39, f. 2. (3). Pet, Amb. t. 16, f. 3. Gaultier t. 16, f.2.(4.) Knorr, v. t. 25, f.5. Martini 1. t.25,f. 247, 249. Shaw Nat. Misc. xv. t. 648. 4. decorticata. Testa dorso purpureo basi albida nigro-macu- lata ; dentibus fuscis. _ List. Conch. t. 679, f. 26. Knorr. iii. t. 2. 5. polita. ‘Testa dorso fusco-purpured, albido-guttata, basi albida, nigro-maculata. 6. distorta, Testa spird longé exserta, conica. 78 Monograph on the Cyprwidee, by Mr. Gray. - Inhabits the Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Lister. Amboyna, Rumphius. Sunda, Lister, Linneus. Friendly Islands, Martyn. Mus. Brit. Sowerby, Nostr. m Sheil ovate, elliptical, white ornamented with brown lines, leaving white, more or less angular or orbicular spots, or forming brown reticulations, the dorsal line simple, mostly central, with a brown lunate spot at the side of the spire, edge thickened, roundish angular, white, yellowish, or purplish spotted with black, base flattish, flesh coloured or white, aperture linear, slightly concave, dilated in front, teeth nearly similar, close, rather narrow, brown, columella deep, flattish, plaited ; spire conical, convex ; inside purplish.—axis 3, diameter 2 inches. This species varies exceedingly. 1. in size, the following are the measurements of 3specimens ; a. axis 1 4, diameter 2; b. axis 14, diameter 1 ais; c. axis 3, diameter 2 inches; 2. in shape, being more less margined; and 3. in colour, the lines being some- times narrow or bread, more or Jess confluent, they are some- times so much so in the last variety, that the back of the shell appears brown with white spots as in C. cribraria, sometimes obscurely banded. Cyprea Arabicula. Testa ovata gibbosa, albido-cwrulescens obscuré quinque-fasciata, lieolis fulvis ornata; basi fulvescente, planulata Jateribus, in- crassatis, angulatis, carneis, atro-rubro-maculatis; apertura con= cava dentibus albidis, eminentibus. Cypreaarabicula. Lamarck Ann. Mus. xvi. Hist. vii. 399. Cyprea arabica. Var. Dillwyn, R. S. 438, 2. Incompleta. Testa coerulescens 3-fasciata, basi fulva. Western coast of Mexico, near Acapulco. Humboldt, Lamarck. Mus. Nost. Shell ovate, gibbous, whitish blue, obscurely three banded, ornamented with fulvovs brown irregular lines, base flattened, edge and inner side of the aperture concave, pale reddish yellow, margin thickened, angular, with largish black purple spots, ex- tremities above brown, slightly produced. Aperture rather broad, teeth narrow, deep, whitish; columell:, base concave, deep, centre” smoothish, innermost part plaited, spire visible, conical convex, axis 1 inch, diameter <& of an inch. « ac aan Monograph on the Cypreidee, by Mr. Gray. 78 I am not certain that my shell is the same as Lamarck describes, though it agrees with allhis characters, for my own has certainly more affinity to C.Mauritiana than C. arabica. Lamarck observes that the dorsal line is rather branched ; in my: specimen, which is perhaps not quite: so full grown, I cannot observe any. It is in- stantly to be distinguished from all the other Cypree by its promi- nent spire, flat base, and very deep groves between the hinder teeth. Cyprea Mauritiana. Testa ovalo-ovata gibbosa flavescens ; Fale dfusieus reticulata, flavido-guttata, basi plana, nigerrima; Jateribus incrassatis angula- tis, nigris; apertura albida; dentibus obtusis, nigris. Cypraa Mauritiana, Lin. Sys. Nat. 1176 ; Martini 1, 388, Born. Mus. 180; Schroeter Einl. 1. 107; Gmelin 3407; Schreiber’s Conch..1. 63; Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv, 449, Hist. 377; Dill- wyn R. S. 447. Icon. Bonnanni Mus. Kirch. iii, f.261! List. Conch. t. 703, f-52! Rumphius t. 58, f. 2; Pet. Gaz, t. 96, f.8! Gualtier #15. 7. S. Ff Seba tit, t. 76,7. 191 Knorr. z. 6. 13, 6. Yh ii, #27, f) °F. Favanne t.' 30, f. F. 2; Muriint zt. t. 30, f. 317! Ency. Method. t. 250, f.2 a. b.! 1. Junior. Testa oblonga ellipticd, marmoraté, subfasciata. Peribola— Adanson, tab. 5, fit. Sow. Gen. Shells f. I. 2. Juvenis. Testa ovata, gibbosa, brunnea, quinque-fasciata,. undata. Bulla ovata Gmelin 3432. Bulla Ovum Var. Schreiver’s Conch. i. 81. Cyprea Regina Chemnitz x. 101. Gmelin 3406. Schreiber’s Conch. p. 49. Cyprea-turbinata. Gmelin 3404 (1). Schreiber’s Conch. i. 59. Cyprea fragilis, Born. Mus. 179 (1). Cyprza nebulosa, Soland. MSS. 3432. Portland Catal-—Cyprea venerea Gmelin 3404 (3) Schreiber’s Conch. i. 60. Icon. Bonanni Rec. & Kirch. iii, 262, (2). Martini-1, t. 22, f.207, 208. Chem- nitz x,t. 144, f. 1335, 1386. Born. Mus t. 8, f:601.(1). Sow. Gen. Shells, f. 2. 2. Incompleta. Testa ovata, gibbosa, brunnea, fasciata, sub- marginata. 80 Monograph on the Cypreidee, by Mr. Gray. Cyprea turbinata, Gmelin 3404 (3). Cyprea tri-fasciata, Gmelin 3404 (4). Schreiber’s Conch. i. 60. Icon. Lister Conch. t. 675, f. 22. (3). Knorr. vi. t. 18, f. 2, (4). Martini ii. t. 65, f. 726, 727. 3. decorticata. Testa flavescens sub-fasciata, basi margineque nigro«fusca. Inhab. Persian Gulph, Bonanni. Mauritius, Lister. Amboyna, Rumphius. Java, Linneus. Nussatilla, Martini. Isle of France, Indian Ocean, Lamarck. Mus. Brit. Sowerby, Nostra. Shell ovate, above gibbous, pale yellowish, netted with broad brown reticulations leaving orbicular pale spots, base flat, concave toward the aperture, blackish brown, margin thickened, pro- duced, angular, blackish brown except at the ends of the canals which are pale, aperture rather large, pale, front concave, teeth rather large, blunt, dark blackish brown, columella concave rather deep, spire hidden, inside purplish white. Cyprea stercoraria. Testa ovata, ventricosa, gibba, pallide lutescens, maculis fulvo- fuscis irregulariter nebulosa; Linea dorsali sub-irregulari ; basi plana fusca ; lateribus incrassatis, subangulatis lividis fusco-macu- latis ; apertura fusca, dentibus albidis, spira fusco-notata. Cyprea stercoraria, Lin. Sys. Nat. 1174. Born. Mus. 175. Schroet Einl. i. 99. Gmelin 3399. Schrieber’s Conch. i, 55. Chemnitz xi, 36. Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv, 451. History vii, 580. Dillwyn R.S, 441. Cyprea olivacea, Gmelin 3408 (2). Cyprza conspurcata, Gmelin 3405 (1). Schr eiber’s Conch. i. 60. Porcellana gibba, Mus. Gevers 406. Icon. Lister Conch. t. 687, f. 34. Knorr. iv. t.13, f.1. Mar- tint i. t. 31, f. 332 (2). Chemnitz x, t. 180, f. 1739, 1740. Ency. Method. t. 354, f. 5. b. Rattus testa non gibbosa, pallidé fusco-nebulosa. Cypra nebulosa, Gmelin 3413 (3). Cyprea n. 107. Schroeter Einl. i. 160. Cyprea Rattus Lamarck Ann. Mus. xv. 451. . Hist. vii. 380. [To be continued. ] Desmarest on Capromys. 81 Art. XII.—Abstract of a “Memoir on a new genus of the order Rodentia, named Capromys.” ByM.G.A., DeEsMAREST.* The animal which forms the subject of this paper is a native of the island of Cuba, from whence two male specimens were brought alive by M. Marcellin Fournier, who presented them to the author. It is known there by the name of Ufia, and is with much probability supposed to be the same animal described under that name by Bomare, Oviedo, and other authors. The refer- ences to Aldrovandus, Dutertre, &c. are not calculated to throw any light upon the subject, and we therefore pass them over. Bomare observes that *‘ the Utias is a species of rabbit of the size of a rat, which inhabits the West Indies, and which is hunted at night, by the light of a luminous insect, named Acudia,” (doubt- less Elater Noctilucus, of which M. Fournier brought large quan- tities from Cuba.) M. Desmarest imagines it to be also the ** Mus maximus, pullus, cauda& oblonga, pilosa, dorso subsetoso,” of Brown. The head is rather long, compressed laterally, and the forehead very slightly arched. The tip of the snout is truncate, higher than it is wide, at the upper part of which are situated the nostrils, which are very open, oblique, wider, and nearer to each other below than at the upper part; their circumference externally and above has a distinct thickened border, and the interval between them is marked by a medial longitudinal furrow, which termmates below in the bifurcation of the upper lip. The mouth is moderately open ; the lower lip somewliat thick- ened, transverse, and not pointed, as in most of the Rodentia. The upper incisores are not very strong, transversely truucate at the extremity, and not furrowed on the anterior surface ; the lower are only slightly subulate and very similar to the upper; the former are yellowish, the others white. * Translated from the ** Memoires de la Societé d’Histoire naturelle de . Paris,” by Thomas Bell, Esq. F. L. S. Vou. f, F 82 Desmarest on Capromys. The whiskers are numerous, strong, and generally almost as long as the head. The eyes, situated very near the line of the forehead, are rather nearer to the base of the ears than to the extremity of the snout. They are moderately large, very little longer than they are high ; the eyelids are well formed, and the upper is furnished with very fine, rather long and regular eye-lashes. Before the anterior can- thus is a very slight furrow in a direction towards the nose. The cornea is moderately convex ; the iris of a deep brown colour, the pupil longitudinal and narrow by day, round at night; the scle- rotic greyish. ‘The ears are nearly one-third the length of the head, they are erect and lateral, nearly naked and blackish ; their anterior mar- gin strait, the apex rounded, and the posterior margin marked with a distinct rounded notch. The neck is short. The body is somewhat bulky, and like that of most of the Ro- dentia, much thicker behind than before ; and the back is gene- rally much arched below the region of the shoulders. The tail, the length of which does not exceed half that of the body and head together, is strait, thick, conical, almost without hair, and co- vered with numerous scales disposed in rings. The hinder legs are, in length, intermediate between those of the rats properly so called, and those of the marmots ; but they are at least as thick and strong as the latter. The fore feet have four toes, quite separate, terminated by strong arched and sharp-point- ed claws; and the rudiment of a thumb, furnished with a small nail, truncate transversely, similar to that in the rats, marmots, squirrels, &c.; the longest toe is that which answers to the middle finger, and the others decrease in the following order: the fourth or ring finger, the index, and the little finger. The hind feet have five toes, formed like the anterior, but longer, broader, and with stronger claws; the thumb, although the smallest, is much detached, and its claw is as strong as those of the other toes; of these the middle is the longest, that on each side very little shorter, and tie external is intermediate between these and the thumb. The joints of all the phalanges are readily felt, both above and Desmarest on Capromys. 33 below ; the muscles which move them are very prominent, parti- cularly towards the extremity of the toes. A number of transverse furrows are observed which are very apparent oa the lower surface, both of the anterior and hinder toes. The palms and the soles of the feet are naked, black, and as it were shagreened with large grains, somewhat like the rind of the truffle. ‘This structure is continued to the heel on the hind feet, which indicates that the animal is plantigrade ; the heel, however, is a little raised. and touches the ground only by accident in walking gently. The palm has five principal prominences, sepa- rated by deep furrows: one of these projections corresponds to the thumb, another, placed externally, forms a sort of heel, a thirdis at the base of the index, a fourth answers to the middle and fourth toe, and the fifth corresponds to the outer toe. The sole of the foot, growing narrower towards the heel, has, about two-thirds of the length forwards, a very deep transverse furrow, beyond which are four tubercles analogous to those of the fore feet, and similarly disposed ; one towards the inner toe, a second for the following one, a third for the two next, and a fourth for the outer toe. On the shagreened skin of the lower surface of all the feet there is one scale larger than the rest, on the most projecting part of each tu- bercle, which is somewhat of a hexahedral form. The nipples, of a brownish colour, situated entirely at the sides of the body, are four in number ; the pectoral or anterior pair being about two inches and a half from the second or abdominal pair. The anus, situated near the base of the tail, forms a conical, oblong, distinct projection, at the summit of which is the orifice of the intestinal canal, nearly circular, having a raised edge, and marked with fine converging striz. The sheath of the penis, in one of the individuals in my posses- sion, is situated one inch before the anus; in the other, which I believe to be the older, it is much nearer. The form of this sheath - is elongate, conical, swoln at the base and pointed at the extre- mity ; its direction, when at rest, is backwards, and its point almost touches the edge of the anus. The orifice for the escape of the urine is below, and is corrugated at its extremity like the prepuce of a child. The testicles, concealed under the skin, but F2 84 Desmarest on Capromys. slightly apparent, are nearly the size and form of a kidney bean, and have a trifling degree of mobility. The hair with which the animal is covered, is plentiful and generally rough. ‘The extremity of the snout, the edge of the nostrils, and the lips are black, and. clothed with an excessively fine short hair. The eyelids are naked and black ; as are also the ears, but these are beset with some very fine long hairs of a grey colour. The skin of those parts of the body which are covered with hair, is of a whitish grey ; that of the under part of the belly, which is almost naked, is browner. The upper part of the toes, of the metacarpus and metatarsus, which is of a black colour, is covered with scales interspersed with ; hairs. ‘The under part of the feet is granular, naked and black. The tail is marked with about a hundred and fifty rings, formed of prominent angular scales, which progressively diminish in size from the base to the extremity. Short stiff hairs, in the direction of the tail, appear between these scales, and are more abundant above than below, where they are sooner worn down, by the con- tinual friction to which the lower surface of this part is exposed. The hair of the forehead is directed backwards, and is continued in the older individual into a sort of tuft towards the occiput, which is not the case in the younger. The hair of that part from . which the whiskers grow is blackish, and thus forms a very obvi- ous spot of that colour on each side the muzzle. The hair of the lower part of the forehead, of the corners of the mouth, of the chin, and of the under part of the neck is generally grey ; that of the upper part of the forehead, the cheeks, the back of the neck, the back, the flanks and the exterior surface of the limbs, is generally brown; each hair has a ring, more or less broad, of a yellowish colour, towards the extremity, and the. extreme point is black. From this mixture results a general tint of greenish brown, of which the yellowish colour is distributéd in specks. The hairs on the rump are stiffer than the others, and pass into a reddish brown; and those which are near the base of the tail, are much thicker, hard, rigid, and wholly of a reddish colour. The bristles which compose the whiskers. are very long and. vearly thirty in number on each side; some of the largest are Desmarest on Capromys. 85 ‘white with a black tip; others are wholly black. There are also some bristles of the latter colour, forming a tuft above the eye, and another between the eye and ear. The rigid hairs distributed amongst the scales of the tail are reddish, except those towards the extremity which pass insen- sibly into brown. The belly and chest are of a uniform dirty brownish grey. The upper part of the feet is in general covered with a blackish brown hair, interspersed with a few scattered, loag, white hairs. The older of the two individuals differs from the other, in having the sides of the head, the under part of the neck, the chest and belly of a whitish grey, and some very long hairs of this colour on the upper surface of the feet. In other respects they are almost exactly similar, DIMENSIONS. The older individual is the larger of the two by about one ninth. The following are the measurements taken from the younger one. feet in. lines Total length from the tip of the nose to the origin of the mailipas celine eles We ket lad. d bee Tee Wes « Length of the head from the tip of the nose to the occiput. 0 3 3 of the tail . cisets slelsiaaly sleielseles\etvietaje yore (Ole (Gi) tO Pegler he antinal Gerrards f sats nevis sieip asheoiade wi -\pp OT ea IS behind Bree Ocoee 0 Circumference of the muzzle below the ca wer orate 0 4 =O Circumference of the opening of the mouth............ O21 ---% Distance between the nostrils below ...............0. 0 oO 34 PRPUNOE CAM OSU Sr saree edt e tence cde eine oe 0° 0° '3 between the point of the nose and the anterior angle of the eye . xf D', Hew’ between the grate aiighe nk Ses eye fe Sis nace, of the Cary is aba nina blaace Geible sliaislanre blels uss dec 0.0. 4 Wetitcalidiambter Of TRE OVe a vo. inccias ois nnn orn cisia Saxiede os eadinne Buciniain RA JOP ys 6 Ciremmierence Of ERE WISE oc s\-.. wens'e pe ob ciaoys 0° 5 sce On Ve Gl the WRELACHEPUS 60. esos sn oh esity ue 0. 0 “Hength’of-the wrist to the nails \) 07552022 0c es see Seles © Ov I 26 of the leg from the knee to the heei a3" 70 Gupatest breath. ofthe leg, (ee 0. Mi)... 3h. oe ee o Wa thicknessiof ditto cies saeis. cicwGmsie cee ae eee 0} DAS Breadth at the small of the heel . i 0) Onl Circumference of the metatarsus ..............-22--8+ Oot es Length from the heel to the point of the nails ......... Oo Pam a Breadth ofthe forefoot). (2.0. eis oee ect cece ees OSTEO pee OFAN E MINA SOOL cic serlstecis cients aleteereicle apemenies OMe Henethof thelargestimais 0. BESS Sor. eae See e oe a cha: Breadth at theimibasesy . dies ae 6th. es shee 3 PSs SRR OPS Distance from the anus to the base of the tail ......... 07 2-09 we to the base ofthesheath ofthe penis 0 1 2 Length of the sheath of the penis ...... 0 0 9 Distance between the two anterior teats .............. 0 4 6 posterior ditto ... Oy See the first and second pair of ditto’! Sti Oe It will be seen by this description that the Utia is an animal, whose general form is that of the rats properly so called, except that the body is thicker, that its hind-quarters are more bulky, and its legs shorter and much thicker. Its hind feet are simi- Jar to those of the Marmot, and we may consider if as forming an intermediate link between the latter animal and the true rats. Under these circumstances, [ do not hesitate to form it into a particular genus, to which I give the name of Capromys, from Kampoo aper and wus mus, indicating by this designation, a resem- blance which the hard hairs of this animal, its sombre colour, and its cait in running, give it to the wild boar. Desmarest on Capromys. 87 I grant, however, that this genus will not be sufficiently estab- lished until the arrangement of its teeth is known. | I have dedicated the species to the zealous traveller that made it known to me. With respect to the habits of the Utias in a wild state, I know only that they are found in woods, that they climb trees with great facility, and that they live on vegetables. In a domesticated state, in which those which I possess are liv- ing, I have made the following remarks. Their intelligence appears to me developed to as great a degree as that of rats and squirrels; much more so than that of rabbits and guinea pigs. They have in particular a great share of curiosity. They appear to be very wakeful at night, which is indeed indi- "cated by the form of the pupils. The sense of hearing does not appear to be so fine as that of rab bits and hares. Their nostrils are incessantly in motion, especially when they smell any new object. Their taste is sufficiently delicate to enable them to distinguish and reject vegetables when they are given to them, which have been touched by animal substances, to which they manifest the greatest repugnance. They agree perfectly well together, and sleep close to each other. When they are apart, they call each other by a sharp cry, differing little from that of a rat, and their voice, when they ex- press pleasure, is a low soft kind of grunting. They scarcely ever quarrel except for food, as when one piece of fruit only is given for them both ; in that case, one seizes and runs away with it, until the other is able to take it from him. They sometimes play for a long time together, holding them- selves upright, in the manner of Kangaroos, firmly supported upon the broad soles of their feet, and the base of the tail, and striking each other with the hands, until one of them finding a wall or some other body against which to support himself, acquires addi- tional power and gains an advantage. They never bite each other. They manifest the greatest indiffereuce to other animals, pay- ing no attention even to cats, 88 Desmarest on Capromys. They are fond of being caressed, and particularly of being scratched under the chin. They do not bite, but slightly press with the incisive teeth, the skin of those who caress them. They do not ordinarily drink ; I have however occasionally seen them suck up water as Squirrels do. Their food consists solely of vegetables, such as cabbage, succory, grapes, nuts, bread, ap- ples, &c. &c. They are not very difficult in the choice of their food, but I have observed that they have a particular fondness for strong flavoured herbs and aromatic plants, such as wormwood, rosemary, geraniums, pimpernel, celery, &c. &c. Grapes pleased them much, and to obtain them, they instantly climbed up a long pole, at the top of which the fruit was placed. They are also fond of bread steeped in aniseed, or even wine. Their excrements are elongated black lumps, similar in consist- ence to the dung of rabbits, but smaller. Their urine, white like that of the rabbit, reddens in drying the white linen which had been wetted with it, and this colour is deeper when the food has been dry. The chemical analysis of the urine of the Utia, made by M. Las- saigne, presents the following results. Ist. Urea; 2d. A reddish oil combined with potass ; 3d. Animal mucilage of a brown colour ; 4th. Benzoate of potass ; 5th. Sulphate of potass ; 6th. Muriate of potass or soda ; 7th. Carbonate of lime. This secretion is very analogous to that of the rabbit and beaver, which have been analysed by M. Vauquelin. It differs however from the urine of the beaver, which contains acetate of magnesia in addition. These animals are almost absolutely plantigrade ; their move- ments are slow, and the hinder parts are as it were embarrased when they walk, as is observed in the bear. They leap occasionally by suddenly turning round from head to tail, like the field mouse. They gallop when at play, making a considerable noise with the soles of their feet. Catalogue of Birds, &c. 89 When they climb, which they do with great ease, they assist themselves with the base of their tail, as a support, and the same in descending. In certain positions, on a stick for example, the tail serves as a balance to preserve the equilibrium. They often raise themselves to a listening posture, sitting erect, with the hands hanging down, like rabbits and hares. In eating they employ sometimes both, at other times one only of their hands. The latter happens when the substance they are holding is small enough to be held between their fingers and the tubercle at the base of the thumb. Such are the observations which I have been able to make upon these animals, discovered three centuries ago, and the existence of which has been entirely unknown since that period. When either of the individuals in my’ possession dies, I shall communicate its internal organization, and thus complete the de- scription of this interesting species. EXPLANATION OF PLATE 1,. Fig. 1. Capromys Furnieri, half the natural size. 2. The muzzle, nat. size. 3. The under part of the left fore-foot, nat. size. A. hind ditto, nat. size. 5. Portion of the tail enlarged, to shew the disposition of the scales and hairs which cover that part. Arr. XIII.—Catalogue of Birds, and of Terrestrial and Fluviatile Mollusce, found in the vicinity of Geneva. Dear Sir, The accompanying catalogues are extracted from a little work entitled, ‘‘ Essai statistique sur le Canton de Genéve ;” the list of the Birds is by Prof. Necker, and that of the Terrestial and Fluviatile Mollusce by Prof. Jurine; conceiving that such cata- logues tend to advance our knowledge of the mode in which ani-~ 90 Catalogue of Birds mal life is distributed over the surface of the globe, I have been induced to forward them to you, more particularly as I believe the work in which they are contained is little known to British naturalists. Believe me, Yours, &c. H. T. De ra Becue. CATALOGUE OF BIRDS FOUND IN THE CANTON OF GENEVA. r. rare—v. r. very rare—p. bird of passage—a. p. accidental bird of — passage. ‘Falco Ossifragus (v. r.) Corvus graculus. aliztus Pica — Milvus (p.) glandarius — Buteo Coracias garrula (a. p.) — albidus (r.) Oriolus galbula — lagopus (v. r.) Lanius cineréus -—— aplvorus (r.) rufus —— pygargus Collurio. — palumbarius ’ { Loxia coccothraustes — nisus (p.) pyrrhula — J§Aésalon chloris — sTithctelcok (p-) serinus —— peregrinus (v. ¥.) italica (r.) —— subbuteo. Fringilla celebs —— rufipes (a. p.) —— montifringilla (p.} — tinnunculus. domestica. Strix Bubo (r.) montana ee OS petronia. —— Scops (v. r) cannabina. —— §Aluco —— carduelis a eidolos ———— Spinus. —— flammea ———— linaria. — Ulula Emberiza citrinella passerina. ——_— miliaria (r.) Picus viridis | hortulana (v. r., canus (v. r.) cirlus. major. ————- cia (r.) medius —— scheniclus. minor ‘Yunx torquilla (p.) Turdus viscivorus (p.) musicus. (p,) Sitta europea —— pilaris (p.) Upupa Epops (p.) — iliacus (p.) Certhia familiaris — Merula. muraria saxatilis Merops apiaster (v. r.—a. p.) Ampelis garrula. (a. p.) Alcedo Ispida Muscicapagriseola (p) Cuculus canorus (p.) ————._ atricapilla (p.) rufus. (variety of the above) | ————— luctuosa (p.) Corvus Corax. —————_ parva (p.) Corone. (p.) Motacilla alba Cornix. (r.) —— boarula frugilegus (p.) ——_——— flava. Monedula (p.) Sylvia Juscinia (p.) found in the Canton of Geneva. Sylvia orphea (p.) atricapilla (p.) cinerea (p.) —— curucca (p.) —— hippoiais (p.) aquatica (p.) trochilus . rubecula suecica (p.) tythis (r.) —— phenicurus. modularis (p.) fitis regulus, troglodytes. Alauda arvensis arborea. (p.) brachydactyla. Anthus arboreus (p.) pratensis (p.) trufescens (p.) aquaticus (p.) Cinclus aquaticus Sturnus vulgaris (p.) Parus major ater cristatus ceruleus palustris caudatus biarmicus (v. r.) axicola CEnanthe (p.) —— rubetra (p.) —— rubicola (p.) Hirundo rustica (p.) —— urbica (p.) ——— riparia (p.-) ———— apus (p.) melba (p.) Caprimulgus Europeus (p.) Columba palumbus (p.) znas (p.) —— Turtur (p.) Tetrao bonaria (p.—v. r-) Perdix cinerea - Coturnix. Pheenicopterus ruber (v. r.) Platalea leucorodia (v. r.) Ardea vulgaris purpurea alba (v. r.) garzetta (v. r.) Nycticorax, stellaris minuta comata. (r.) Ciconia alba nigra (r.) Grus communis (v. r.) saan mM Tantalus falcinellus (v. r.) Numenius arquatus (p.) phoeopus {p.) Seolopax rusticola (p.) media (p.) gallinago (p.) ———— gallinula (p.) Totanus maculatus (r.) —~ fuscus (r.) | ————— limosus (r.) glottis (r.) agocephalus (r:) lapponicus (v. r.) Tringa pugnax (p.) interpres (v. r.) ochropus (p.) hypoleucus (p.). cinclus (p.) pusilla (p.) cineréa (p.) alpina (r.) striata. calidris. Arenaria vulgaris Vanellus vulgaris (p.) helveticus (r.) varius (r.) Phalaropus hyperboreus (v. r.) platyrhynchos (v. r.) Charadrius cedicnemus (r.) — pluvialis (p.) — morinel]lus (v. r.) | i. cantianus (r.) Cursor Europeus ? Hematopus ostralegus (a. p.) Himantopus vulgaris. (r.) Recurvirostra Avocetta (a. p.) Glareola austriaca (r.) Rallus aquaticus (p.) crex. (p.) Gallinula porzana (p.) pusilla (p.) chloropus. Fulica atra Podiceps cristatus (p.) ———— parotis (p.) auritus (p.) obscurus (r. } ———— minor. (p.) Colymbus arcticus (v. r.} stellatus (p.) ———— Immer (v. r.) Larus ridibundus fuscus. (v. r.) canescens tridactylus (r. ) parasiticus (1. ) | Sterna Hirundo (p.) ‘91 '92 Sterna nevia (p.) fissipes (p.) nigra (r.) minuta (r.) caspia (a. p.)* Pelecanus onocrotalus (a. p.—v. r) Carbo (v. r.) ————._ graculus (v. r.) Mergus Merganser (r.) Serrator albellus (r.) Anas fusca (a. p.) nigra (a. p. Teton ey — Cygnus (a. p.) Terrestrial and Fluviatile Mollusce found in the vicinity of Catalogue of Birds, &c. Anas Anser (p.) Marila (a. p.) —— Strepera (r.) clangula (p.) Penelope (p.) anita (r.) ferina (p.) querquedula (p.) — Crecea. (p.) clypeata (r.) Boschas. fuligula (p-) rutina. (v. r.) Geneva. Cyclostoma elegans. patulum. maculatum. Paludina viviparum. impurum. viride obtusum Valvata planorbis. Planorbis marginatus. ———— carinatus complanatus. hispidus. vortex. spirorbis. contortus ———— nitidus. Ancylus lacustris fluviatilis Physa fontinalis. hypnorum. Auricula myosotis. +—— lineata. Succiniae amphibia oblonga. Limneus stagnalis. auricularius glutinosus Pereger palustris. minutus. Pupa Dolium Doliolum —— umbilicata. marginata Vertigo antivertige. —— pyemea SS SN ns METTLE Pupa muscorum. edentula. —— tridens. —— quadridens —— cinerea. variabilis. Polyodon. —— Frumentum Secale. —— Avena Granum. Clausilia plicatula. rugosa. Bulimus radiatus (v. r.) montanus. acutus —— ventricosus. obscurus. —— lubricus Acicula Helix pyramidata. elegans fruticum, variabilis. rupestris. strigella. pomatia. rhodostoma. arbustorum aspersa. vermiculata sylvatica. nemoralis hortorum. splendida. personata. carthusianella, * Once killed at Versoix. leucocephala, (v. r.) leucophtalmos (v. r.) Gaspard’s Memoir, &c. . Helix incarnata. Helixnitidula. —— pubescens. rotundata. cespitum. crystallina. —— ericetorum Vitrina pellucida. — villosa. Testacella haliotoidea. —— hispida. ovum. lueida. Limax scutellaris. conspurcata. Cyclas cornea. striata. lacustris —— plebeium. fontinalis. —— lapicida. Unio pictorum obvoluta. littoralis. pulchella. Anodon anatinus — nitida. cygneus. Art. XIV.—Abstract of a Memoir on the Physiology of Helix Pomatia. By B. Gasparn, D.M.; with Note by T. Bevt, F.L.S. §. 1. In our temperate climate, about the beginning of October, as the first chills of autumn are felt, these Helices become indo- lent, lose their appetite, and associate in considerable numbers on hillocks, the banks of ditches, or in thickets, hedges, &c. In a day or two they cease to eat, expel the last contents of the in- testines, and then conceal themselves under moss, grass, dead leaves, &c. Here each forms for itself, with the anterior part of its muscular foot, a cavity sufficiently large to contain at least its shell; this it enlarges and excavates by turning itself round on every side, then raising itself against the sides of the cavity, and at last against the roof formed of moss or leaves, or a small quan- tity of earth brought there by the motians of the animal. When it has got so far as to bring the opening of the shell to nearly a ho- rizontal position, it ceases. It soon contracts the foot within the. shell; expands, so as completely to cover it, the collar of the mantle, which is at this period of a very white colour, and opens for a time the pulmonary cavity to inspire a quantity of air. On closing this, it forms with the mucus, a fine transparent membrane, interposed between the mantle and such extraneous substances ly- : ing above as might be injurious. Soon afterwards the mantle se- * From Majendie’s Journal de Physiologie, tom, ii, p. 295. O4. Gaspard’s Memoir on the cretes a large quantity of very white fluid over its whole surface, which instantly sets uniformly, like plaster of Paris, thus forming a solid covering, about half a line in thickness. When this oper- culum is hardened, the animal separates its mantle from it, by . another mucus web stronger than the former; and after a few. hours, expelling a portion of the air it had previously taken into the | lungs, it retires by this meansa little farther into the shell, forms | another lamina of mucus, retires again expiring another quantity of air, and thus sometimes forms a fourth, fifth, and even sixth partition, with intermediate cells filled with air.* | §. 2. The labour of each individual continues for about two or three days. But the whole of the month of October is occupied | by the general closing of the shells of the species, and after the~ very commencement of November, we find none of them, except | perhaps a few diseased individuals, which, not being capable of hi- bernating, perish with the first frosts. If from any obstacle the orifice of the shell is not brought toa horizontal position, but is found more or less inclined, it uften happens that the calcareous fluid before it is completely fixed, sub- * The account here given by M. Gaspard does not completely explain the ° manner in which the excavation is formed. It is not by the pressure of the foot and the turning round of the shell that this is principally effected. A large quantity of very viscid mucus it secreted on the under surface of the foot, to which a layer of earth or dead leaves adheres; this is turned on one side, and a fresh secretion being thrown out, the layer of earth mixed with mucus is left. © The animal then takes another layer of earth on the bottom of the foot, turns it also to the part where he intends to form the wall of his habitation, and leaves it in the same manner, repeating the process until the cavity is sufficiently large, and thus making the sides smooth, even, and compact. In forming the dome or arch of the form, a similar method is used, the foot collecting on its under surface a quantity of earth, and the animal turning it upwards, leaves it by throwing out fresh mucus, and this is repeated until a perfect roof is formed. As Ihave very often watched this curious process, I am certain of the facts. On ~ removing very carefully a portion of the roof soon after its completion, I was enabled to see the formation of the operculum. In about an houror even less after the hibernaculum is covered in, the whole surface of the collarof the mantle in- | stantaneously pours out the calcareous secretion in considerable quantity. This is at first as fluid as thick cream, but very soon acquires exactly the consistence of bird-lime, being excessively adhesive and tenacious; and in about an hour after it is poured out it is perfectly solid. T. B. Physiology of Helix Pomatia. 95, sides toward the lowest part, and the result is a deformed and in- sufficient operculum. Finally, I believe I have established that the membranous par- titions are more numerous at the end than at the beginning of win- ter, and in the snails inhabiting the mountains, than in those found on low ground. § 3. The snail thus enclosed passes six months in a state of total torpidity, and it is not until the spring that it bursts its prison and returns to its ordinary habits. But if we take off the opercu- lum shortly after its formation, it emerges from its shell, walks about again, and assumes different habits according to circum- stances. Ist. If the temperature be about 12 or 15 degrees Reaum. (59-67° Fahr.) and the snail finds food, it begins to feed again, recovers the whiteness of its mantle, which had become grey and lean, and in about eight days makes another form, in which it buries itself, and forms a fresh operculum, as solid as the former. 2dly. If the temperature should be colder, as for in- stance, 8 or 10° R. (50-55° F.) it eats but very little, and soon forms its hole in the earth, but produces only a slight, flexible, greyish, operculum, with but little earthy matter in its composi- tion. 3dly. If the temperature be but little above the freezing point, as at 3 to 6° R. (39-45° F.) it refuses food entirely, scarcely moves, has no strength to make its form, and produces only a membranous enclosure. 4thly. Ifthe temperature be below freez- ing point, the snail makes no attempt at hibernation, and soon pe- rishes with cold. § 4. It appears from the analyses to which I have submitted the . operculum, that it consists wholly of carboaate of lime. Thus. it’ dissolves rapidly with a brisk effervescence in the mineral acids and in vinegar; and all these solutions, treated with soda or ° potass, throw down an abundant white precipitate. On the other hand, calcination reduced it to the state of caustic lime. The secretory organ of this calcareous matter is the collar or finger of the mantle, a most important organ, since it is also the part from which the shell itself is formed.* It is found to contain * Although it would appear from some circumstances, such as the filling up of the apex of the shell, that other parts are occasionally capable of producing a calcareous secretion, yet there is no doubt that the edge or collar of the man- 96 Gaspard’s Memoir on the in its glands or vessels the carbonate of lime ina free state, so that’ when the surface of the collar is touched by any foreign body, at each point of contact, a quantity of it is thrown out mixed with a tenaceous mucilage. To be still further convinced of the fact, I cut off the collar of the mantle, and having thrown it into a dilute acid, a quantity of gas was given off, and the liquid gave the usual white precipitate with the addition of soda. No other struc- ture similarly treated afforded the same results. It is not therefore surprising that the collar of this snail should be so plump and white in autumn previous to the hibernation, and so lean and grey when it makes its appearance in April, or when the opereulum is taken off in the intermediate time. The animal derives this calcareous fluid not merely from its ordinary vegetable food, but chiefly from the earth which it eats in great abundance, by means of which the necessary quantity of lime is kept up, and its loss repaired with facility. On this account we see these snails when deprived of nourishment unable to form any thing more than mere membranous substitutes for the former calcareous opercula which had been removed.* tle is the organ which ordinarily performs this function. I have at different times cracked the shell, removed small portions, and drilled holes through it, at different parts, andI have found that iftheinjury were withinthe reach of the edge ofthe mantle, it was always drawn up to repair it. I will particularize one only of these experiments to shew the manner in which this is done. I drilled a hole in the shell of Helix pomatia in the last whorl but one, thinking that it could not draw the edge of the mantle high enough to repair it in the usual way ; however it effected this immediately by protruding the foot to make room for the mantle being drawn high up into the shell, and as soon as the edge came in contact with the injured part, it was passed repeatedly over the hole, leaving’ a layer of calcareous matter each time until it became opaque; and ina day ortwo, on examining it, I found the newly formed part apparently as strong as the restof the shell. Another curious circumstance connected with this subject, is, that in the species of snails with coloured bands, H. nemoralis for instance, there are the same number of bands on the mantle as in the shell; which are brown and transparent, and these probably contain comparatively little carbonate of lime. Itis therefore not unlikely that the glands necessary for secreting this substance, * do not exist, at least to an equal degree, in those parts of the mantle marked by the bands. This, however, is but a conjecture, and only important as connected with a subject which deserves a much more accurate investigation than has ever yet been bestowed upon it. T. B. * These circumstances may account for H, pomatia thriving more, and being Physiology of Helix Pomatia. 97 M. Gaspard’s experiments on this and other species prove that although the approach of cold may be considered as the principal cause of their hibernation, yet it is not the only one, as he failed . to produce this effect by submitting them to artificial cold, nearly to the freezing point, and he found that they hibernate at the _ proper period, at very different degrees of temperature, varying, according to the table which he has given, from 2° to 20° R. (37° - to 77° Fahr.) Proceeding to an examination of the state of the vital functions during the period of hibernation, the following are the results of _the author’s numerous and minute experiments. It is of course _evident without requiring proof, that generation, sensation, the _ cerebral and nervous functions, and locomotion, are totally sus- _pended. The only indication of irritability perceptible during _this period, isa slight contraction of the collar of the mantle when _touched, on removing the operculum. It is therefore to the functions of digestion, circulation, respi- ration, animal heat, nutrition, secretions, and absorption, that _these experiments refer. §. 8. As these animals eat nothing during the period of hiber- nation, digestion is of course suspended. Dissection of many in- dividuals in this state, discovered the stomach entirely empty, and the intestines filled with a brown thick liquid, but without fhe least trace of excrement. § 9. If in the month of November, before the severe cold sets in, a portion of the shell of an operculated snail be removed, the heart is seen contracting regularly, but feebly and with a very slow pulsation. But if it be thus exposed during the winter, when the temperature is down to the freezing point, it is found to have totally ceased to beat. On exposure toa slight degree of warmth the motions of the heart are renewed, and again suspend- ed on its removal. This may be often repeated with the same re- found in greater quantities in chalky districts. That lime is not necessary to -be eaten, in order to the perfect formation of the operculum, is however proved ‘by many in my possession having formed that substance, though during the ‘whole summer they had no access to any preparation of lime. Still I have no doubt that it may greatly assist in rendering it solid and efficient. B. Vou. I. G 98 ‘Gaspard’s Memoir on the sults. It appears therefore that during the complete hibernation of the snail, the circulation is entirely suspended. § 10. Respiration is also found by the experiments of the author, to cease during this period. If the snails remained submersed dur- ing the whole time, they did not perish : and it is proved that they do not respire the. air which fills the space between the operculum and the animal, by its being found to possess the usual proportion of oxygen, on being collected and submitted to tests at the latter part of the period of hibernation. § 11, 12. The animal heat, which even in the summer, when respiration and circulation are most lively, does not exceed one degree above the surrounding atmosphere, is not perceptible dur- ing the months of torpidity. ‘The animal becomes frozen when exposed to cold at exactly the same degree as any other gelatinous body, if the shell is not closed by its operculum ; whilst on the other hand those which are perfectly operculated, and slightly co- vered with earth, endure without injury all the rigours of winter. This power of enduring cold however has its limits, and it appears that on being submitted to a temperature of 16° Fahr. they are frozen, and on becoming thawed, although sometimes they shew signs of life, and even walk, they soon re-enter their shells and shortly after die. Ata lower degree, approaching Zero of Fahr., they perish at once. § 13. Their power of sustaining a high degree of heat is no less extraordinary, If exposed to 100° F. they indicated a high great of ‘irritability, alternately emerging from their shells, and re- ‘entering them, and on the temperature being raised to 120°, they appedred dead but became resuscitated on its gradual diminution. Even after sustaining a still higher degree of heat they became slightly re-animated, but subsequently perished; and on being ex- posed to 127° they were found to be irrecoverably destroyed. Similar experiments made by warm water afforded the same results. § 14. Respecting the remaining functions of these animals, se- cretion, nutrition and absorption, the following is the result of the author’s observations. On examining the fringe of the mantle, on the resuscitation of the animal in the spring, it is invariably found in the same state of leanness, and of the same greyish colour as Physiology of Heiix Pomatia. 99 immediately after the formation of the operculum, proving that the secretion has not gone on during hibernation. One of the ani- mals had suffered the removal of the large tentacula in the month of June, which had been partially reproduced at the period of hi- bernation, and in the next spring the reproduction was found not to have advanced in the slightest degree during that period. Re- specting the functions of nutrition and absorption the author arrives at a similar conclusion. § 15. It is therefore proved that during the winter, that is to -say, for five, six, seven, or even eight, or nine months, accord- ing to the climate and season, these animals exist without motion, animal heat, nutrition, respiration, circulation, &c. in a word, deprived of all their animal, organic, and’ generative functions. This obscure existence cannot in fact: be properly called life, but rather a simple aptitade for life, on the return of the genial tem- perature of spring. . § 16. In our climate it is about the beginning of April, soon after the song of the cuckoo begins, and the swallows appear, that the snails leave their torpid state, varying a little however accord- ing to the season. The mode ‘by which their escape from confine- ment is effected is simple and easily comprehended. The air which is contained in the different cells, and which had been ex- pired on the animal withdrawing itself farther and farther into the shell after the formation of the operculum, is again inspired, arid each separate membranous partition broken by the pressure of the hinder part of the foot projected through the mantle. When it arrives at the calcareous operculum, the animal, making a last ‘effort, bursts and detaches its most obtuse angle. Then insinuat- ing by little and little the edge of the foot between the shell and the operculum, it forces the latter off or breaks it away. The animal then comes forth, walks, and immediately begins feeding with an appetite excited doubtless by an abstinence of six or seven months.* * It cannot be supposed that the long abstinence of the animal has any effect ‘in exciting its appetite, when it is recollected that during the whole of its hi- bernation, it is in a state of temporary death, and neither secretion, the pro- duction of animal heat, nor any other wasting function going on. B. G2 ‘100 Gaspard’s Memoir, &c. § 17. It appears from the experiments of M. Gaspard, that the return of warmth is not alone sufficient to restore the animation of these animals. If they were exposed during the winter to a dry heat of from 60° to 100° for several days, or even weeks, not one made its appearance. Whilst on the contrary, those which were placed in a deep recess, the regular temperature of which was 50°, came forth in April or at the beginning of May without any en- crease of temperature. But such as were placed in water and ex- posed to 77° in two or three days broke their operculum and came forth ; this experiment was equally successful when made in Ja- nuary or April, and when the temperature was at 60° or 75°. And .it is found that exposure to damp is so necessary to their re-ani- mation, that if two be placed near each other in rainy weather, and. one of them be covered with a glass, it remains without an effort to emerge from its confinement long after the other has broken its operculum and resumed its functions. It appears there- fore from these facts that the return of the spring, with heat and moisture, all combine to effect their re-animation. § 18. The author proceeds to state the circumstances by which the resuscitation may be retarded ; and he found that this could be effected with the greatest certainty by exposing them constantly to a dry heat, by which he kept some of them from Bursting their operculum, even till October. And these invariably became re- animated on being placed in water, though they were very feeble and ultimately perished. Although the author preserved them in this state for even 12 months, he does not consider the state of actual torpidity to continue beyond the usual period of hibernation, but that the heart and other organs re-commence to a certain de- gree their functions, which accounts for their being always found so enfeebled afterwards. § 19. These circumstances lead to the consideration of the fact that the snails retire within their shells during the heat of summer 5 closing the aperture with a membrane. In this state they remain ' night and day whilst the dry heat continues, but no sooner does a shower fall than they break the covering and walk ; and this may be at any time effected by watering the ground near them. [To be continued. } Odier on the Chemical composition, &c. 101 Art. XV.—Memoir on the Chemical Composition of the Corneous parts of Insects. By M. Aucustus On1ER.* With some additional remarks and experiments, by J. G. Cuipiren, Esq. F.R.S. 1.8. &c. Experiments, often repeated, have long since taught us the che- mical composition of the bones of vertebrated animals of the first order. The skeletons of animals of inferior rank in the zoological scale, have also been subjected to chemical analysis, for the pur- pose of comparison with those of the former, whence we have ob- tained a knowledge of the component parts of the bones of fishes, the shells of mollusca and crustacea, and the hard portions of the zoophyta. The solid parts of the bodies of insects, however, have never been made the subject of chemical research ; naturalists have been satisfied with likening them to those animal substances which they most nearly resemble either in their functions, or natural ap- pearance ; hence some, comparing them to the bones of vertebrated animals, have named them osseous parts, and have even ventured to call the whole assemblage the skeleton of the insects; others, on the contrary, likening them to the integuments of vertebrated animals, have considered them as hardened skin, or a matter ana- logous to horn. In undertaking to investigate the chemical composition of these organs, my object is not to support either of these two opinions ; I shall examine the substances with the sole view of ascertaining their composition, without seeking to associate them with any par- ticular organ of the superior animals. The analysis of some Crustacea, by M. M. Merait, Guillot, and Chevreul, are the only works that have been published, as far as I know, on animals approaching the class of insects; and amongst these much discrepancy exists as to the Composition of their integuments.* * Translated from the ‘¢ Memoires dela Societé d’hist. nat. de Paris,” vol. 1. + Has M. Odier never heard of Mr. Hatchett’s elaborate ‘¢ Experiments and Observations on Shell and Bone,” or his ‘* Chemica] Experiments on Zoo- phyta?’ See Phil. Trans. 1799 and 1800. C. 102 Odier on the Chemical composition M. Robiquet’s labours on Cantharides having been directed to ihe entire insect, and undertaken with particular views, very dif- ferent from mine, have furnished’ me with only a few insulated facts. I must, therefore, claim the indulgence of scientific men, in proportion to the novelty of the subject I am entering on, and in the study of which I have only my own judgment to trust to. The horny parts of insects consist of an assemblage of pieces which form the covering of their bodies, and of some of their in- ternal parts, As they all appear to me to be of the same nature, I have chosen the elytra for the basis of my analysis, as being the most insulated pieces, and consequently the most free from foreign substances, and have afterwards compared the other parts with them. I proceed to the examination of those organs in the order in which I submitted them to experiment. The Cockchaffer (Hanneton—Scarabeus melolontha, Lin.) being the commonest insect at the season when I began my opera- tions, I made the elytra of that animal the subject of my researches, I first submitted them to the action of water. One gramme (15,444 Grs.) of the Cockchaffer’s elytra, well cleaned, was in- fused in cold water, for twelve hours. When decanted, the water was slightly tinged of a yellow colour and had become rather less fluid. To ascertain the substances dissolved in this liquid, I evapo- rated the solution to dryness with a gentle heat. As the liquid became warm some greenish brown filaments formed in it, indi- cating the presence of a small quantity of albumen. The same. elytra being treated repeatedly with water, the infusions were mixed together and afforded by evaporation 0:04 of a gramme (0,6176 Gr.) of a substance composed of extractive matter, anda little coagulated albumen. The residuum acted on by water re- stored the blue colour of litmus paper which had been reddened by an acid. To discover the nature of the alkali, the extract was calcined in a platina capsule; the small quantity of ashes, thus obtained, dissolved with effervescence in an acid, and the solu- tion gave a yellow precipitate with muriate of platina. Hence the, alcali was carbonate of potassa. of the Corneous parts of Insects. 105 Another gramme of the same elytra was treated several times with hot alcohol: the decanted liquors being evaporated, the ex- tract obtained afforded some small drops of a brown oil. Water took up from it a brown extractive matter, similar to that found in the aqueous solution, together with a substance sensibly alkaline to the taste. ‘This liquor, in consequence of the presence of the alkali, dissolved a little fatty matter, which separated on the ad- dition of muriatic acid, the acid at the same time occasioning a slight effervescence. The liquid, evaporated and calcined, left a salt which gave a yellow precipitate with muriate of platina, con- sequently it was muriate of potassa. Hence we find in this expe- riment the carbonate of potassa observed in the aqueous infusion. When the extract of the alcoholic liquor which has acted on the elytra is treated with water, a brown fatty matter is left which spots paper like grease, and increases its combustibility. ‘This substance has a decided smell of bile. Having submitted the elytra to the action of water and alcohol, I wished to try that of putassa on them, which acts so powerfully on all sorts of animal substances. For this purpose I took two grammes (30°88 gers.) of elytra, and treated them with a hot solu. tion of caustic potassa. The solution assumed a deep brown co- lour. I renewed the solution several times, until it ceased to have any further action on the elytra. During the action of the alkali, a slight disengagement of ammonia was perceptible, as happens in all solutions of animal substances in potassa. The alkaline solutions had a deep brown colour, as before ob- served. Saturated with muriatic acid, a brown flocculent matter precipitated, and collected at the bottom of the vessel. The alcohol became coloured yellow brown, and left, after evapora- tion, a brown fatty matter, having the odour of bile. This mat- ter was the same as that extracted from the elytra by alcohol ; it might perhaps be slighty altered, as it had been dissolved, and probably saponified by the potassa. The portion of the precipi- tate, insoluble in alcohol, was brown and solid. It was not parti- cularly examined. The elytra after the action of the potassa, be- came colourless, and transparent like thin horn, without expe- riencing any change in their original form. They lost nearly three 104 Odier on the Chemical composition fourths of their weight by the operation, the two grammes fur- nishing only 0:585 gramme Ls 03 grs.) of transparent matter inso- ljuble in potassa. Having ascertained the presence of the different substances men- tioned above in these organs, 1 was curious to enquire if they do not also contain some saline matter in their composition. I there- fore incinerated two grammes of elytra, previously boiled in water, and consequently freed from all soluble salts. Whilst burning, the elytra exhibit a character which distin- guishes them from the animal substances to which they are com- mouly compared, They neither fuse nor swell up like horn, hair, or nails; on the contrary, they remain solid as they burn and leave a coal, which retains the form of the elytrum.* Two grammes afforded by incineration 0°01 gr. (0.1544 gr.) or sgodth of their weight of a white ash mixed with some yellow specks. This ash thrown into water and treated with muriatic acid, gave no appearance of effervescence ; it therefore contains no carbonate. The whole dissolved in the acid, which was dis- tinctly coloured yellow. Ammonia gave a white precipitate with this solution, which was also rendered turbid by oxalate of ammonia, indicating the pre- sence of lime, and prussiate of potassa turned it sensibly blue. The ash, therefore, consisted of a mixture of phosphate of lime, and a little phosphate of iron. | | Having thus ascertained in the elytra the presence of 1. albu- men; 2, extractive matter soluble in water; 3, a brown animal substance soluble in potassa, and insoluble in alcohol; 4, a coloured oil, soluble in alcohol ; 5, a peculiar matter, constitut- ing 1th of the weight of the elytra; and 6, three salts, viz. car~ bonate of potassa, phosphate of lime, and phosphate of iron; I proceed to the particular examination of these different substances, especially those of which the elytra seem to be more essentially composed, and I shall then look for them in the various parts of the carapace of the insects.t * The peculiar smell of animal matter when burnt, is not perceptible on burning the elytra. Gs + Carapace. The vaulted and generally osseous covering which protects the bodies of reptiles of the class chelonia, and within which they draw their head, of the Corneous parts of Insects. 105: Albumen is distributed through almost all the animal organs, wherefore it is not surprising that it should be found in the horny parts of insects ; it exists in them, perhaps, only as the principle . of the nourishing juice impregnating those organs. I have not particularly examined the extractive matter soluble in water, nor the other brown substance soluble in potassa and insoluble in alcohol, which I have mentioned above. M. Lassaigne, who has made some experiments on elytra, informs me that he has found the latter substance to be analogous to the animal matter met with in the cochineal. This substance, which exists in consi- derable quantity, seems to form the base of the colour of the horny pieces, for the brilliant colours which serve as distinctive charac- . ters, are almost always merely superficial on the elytra. These two bodies require to be more particularly studied, in order thoroughly to understand their nature. Of the substance having the appearance of horn. I have said that this substance is obtained by treating the elytra with a hot solution of potassa, and that it is consequently insoluble in that re-agent, which merely deprives it of the other animal matter with which it is associated. This character at once distinguishes this body from many others, as horn, hair, and epidermis, which, according to M. Vauquelin, are nearly of the same nature and are all soluble in potassa. Like them Chitine,* the name I have given this substance. from the Greek xiluy (a covering), is soluble in sulphuric acid with the assistance of heat. But nitric acid affords a distinguishing charac- ter of it: it is known that horn, hair, and epidermis become yel- low in this acid, in consequence of the formation of a certain quantity of the bitter matter of Welther ; Chitine does not become yellow by the action of nitric acid, but is dissolved when digested in it with heat. limbs, and tail. The shell of the tortoise is called its carapace. (See Dict. des Sciences Naturelles. Art. carapace.) C. * Every man has a right to name his own child, but we think M. Odier might have made a happier election, Elyérine would have been more significant and at least aseuphonious, Ep. 106 Odier, on the Chemical.composition -The manner in which this matter burns without fusing, but leaving a coal which retains the original form of the organ, also serves to distinguish it. It cannot be confounded with the base,of gelatine which is soluble in boiling water, nor with skin. which is of the same nature ; and it is distinguished from coagulated, albu- men by the solubility of the latter in potassa. It was an interesting object to ascertain whether this substance, whose characters as animal matter, are so peculiar, be really of that nature, that is tosay, whether it contain nitrogen. For this purpose I burnt Chitine in,a glass tube, placing litmus paper that had been reddened by an acid, at the mouth of the tube. If car- bonate of ammonia be one of the products, of the decomposition of the elytra, it would restore the blue colour. of the litmus paper. But no such effect was produced, although it is well known, that the smallest portion of nitrogen would form, carbonate of ammonia. Fearing lest I might have been deceived in this experiment by some unknown cause, I repeated it several times, and always with the same result. ’ This character, joined to that derived from the action of nitric acid, which does not turn chitine yellow, can leave no doubt of its vegetable nature, that is, that it contains no nitrogen. Assured of this, I naturally was led to seek amongst vegetable substances, the one most allied to Chitine. Lignin (woody fibre) is the only proximate vegetable principle which can be compared with it. It is in fact, the only body, I think, which burns without swelling up, and whose coal retains the form of the original substance. It is very remarkable that we should thus find in the frame work of insects, the same substance that forms that of vegetables, or which at least approaches it in many of its characters. This fact will serve to confirm the opinion that nitrogen is not an essential character of animal substances. We have now, therefore, certainly attained the knowledge of a peculiar, very singular matter, which forms the base of the ely- tra of insects, and is distinguished by the following characters. It is insoluble in potassa ; Soluble in sulphuric acid, with the assistance of heat ; Does not become yellow by nitric acid ; of the Corneous parts of Insects. 107 ., Burns. without swelling, and Contains no nitrogen. _ But, it was necessary. to the end proposed in this analysis, to ascertain whether this horn-like substance be likewise found in the other hard parts of the bodies of insects. I easily satisfied myself by treating the entire animal with caustic potassa; by this opera- tion the Scarabeus nasicornis afforded me the carapace very well freed from other matter, and transparent. All the hard parts re- mained in the same state as before, except as regards their transpa- rency ; the hairs, even, were still discernible, which consequently differ in their nature from the hair of vertebrated animals. This method I conceive might be advantageously employed for the pur- pose of examining this covering in an anatomical point of view, and for studying the parts of which it is composed. The examination of the Scarabei taught me that the membranes of the wings are not formed. of Chitine, and that the sinews, (ner- vures) which are more solid, are of the same nature as the elytra, that is, that they contain Chitine, animal matter, oil and salts. The parenchymatous matter, which M. M. Thouvenel and Beau- poil, and M. Robiquet found in their analyses of cantharides, is nothing else but Chitine. From these facts, I think we may con- clude, that Chitine is the base of the horny pieces of all insects, of whatever order, and apparently (for I have not made the expe- riment) we may extend this opinion to the arachnides. But is the presence of Chitine limited to this class, or shall we also find it in the crustacea? The fact deserves the attention of naturalists and would be well worthy of examination. The chemists who have analysed crustacea, and M. Chevreul the last, have announced the presence of an animal substance in the carapace of those animals without distinctly stating its nature. M. Geoffroy pretends that he has found in the upper layers of this organ the cutis and epidermis of the vertebrated animals, but, we shall see that this naturalist was led into error by the external ap- pearance of those parts. In order to examine the animal matter of the shell of the crus- tacea, I macerated the carapace of the common crab, for some days, in water acidulated with muriatic acid. At the expiration 108 Odier on. the Chemical coniposition of that time I took it out, perfectly freed from all earthy sub- stances. In this state, the carapace is formed of lamine of a soft flexible substance, with a light brown tint, Jaid one on the other. Having well washed this substance, I dried it in order to compare it with the chitine of insects. I first submitted it to the action of potassa in which I boiled it for a considerable time. The carapace became white, and transparent. but did not dissolve. This was already a strong reason for presuming that this matter was the same as that from the insects; but the action of nitric acid, and its de- composition by heat, which presented the same characters that I had observed in chitine, left me no doubt as to the absolute iden- » tity of the two substances. I should have been glad to have exa- mined likewise the animal matter of the Mollusca, Zoophyta, &c.. to ascertain if it.be of the same nature as that of insects and crus- tacea ; but not being able to extend my researches at present, I reserve those experiments for a future season. Of the coloured oil contained in the elytra. We have seen that the elytra of the Cockchaffer treated with alcohol, left, on evaporating the liquid, a brown oil. The Crioceris merdigera, treated in the same manner, affords a red oil, which, as M. Lassaigne informed me, is still more beautiful if the elytra be treated with ether. This oil changes readily by exposure to the air, and loses its red colour. Observing the relation that exists between the colour of these oils, and that of the insects from which they are derived, I was led to conclude that it is to them they owe their colours, Many other facts of the same nature have confirmed this opinion. Reading M. Robiquet’s memoir on Can- tharides, in the 76th vol. of the Annales de Chimie, we find that by treating Cantharides, (previously digested in water till it had no farther action) with alcoho], he obtained a fine green oil, simi- jar to the coiour of those insects. We may conclude, I think, from these facts, that the colour of the horny pieces of insects, is derived from an oil, coloured ac- cording to the species. On examining those pieces, we observe that the colour is merely superficial, their interior being coloured by the brown animal matter. ' of the Corneous parts of Insects. 109 These observations prove that the colour of the bodies of in- sects is owing to substances of the same nature as those which tinge the hair and fur of vertebrated animals, These oils are de- posited on the surface of the horny parts only during the last pe- riod of the life of the chrysalis, for up to that moment the insect is covered with a colourless membrane. Of the salts contained in the elytra of insects: The elytra of the Cockchaffer contain, according to my experi- ments, three salts, carbonate of potassa, phosphate of lime, and phosphate of iron. Do all the horny parts of insects contain the same salts? To answer the question, I burnt several scarabei nasicornes, previously cleansed, and obtained for residuum a small mass of white earthy matter, which nearly retained the form of the body. I remarked that all the hairs had a fawn colour, owing to the presence of phosphate of iron, I digested the ashes in water, and obtained a strongly coloured alkaline lie; nitrate of silver gave a white precipitate with the solution, soluble in nitric acid ; muriate of baryta, also gave a precipitate, soluble in acid = consequently an alcaline carbonate was dissolved in the water. Muriate of platina gave a slight yellow precipitate with the solu- tion—proving the alcali to be carbonate of potassa. The portion of ashes, insoluble in water gave, like those of the elytra, a mixture of the phosphate of lime, and phosphate of iron. These observations attest the perfect similitude that exists between the salts contained in the elytra, and those contained in the other horny parts. Having remarked, as [ have said above, that the hairs of the Scarabeus nasicornis remained yellow after calcination, I wished _to ascertain if that be a general character of the hairs of insects, and for this purpose I incinerated a considerable quantity of them, obtained from the bodies of several Jarge peacock moths, (grazds paons— Bombyx pavonia?) But the residuum was a white ash mixed with only some yellow specks, that is, a mixture of much . phosphate of lime, with a little phosphate of iron. The first ob- served fact, thercfore, was peculiar only to certain insects. By 110 Odier on the Chemical composition comparing these results with those obtained by M. Chevreul in his experiments on the crustacea, we see the difference between the composition of the salts of the carapace of those animals, and that of the salts of the same organs in insects. The presence of sub-carbonate is a very remarkable character in the latter, and is not found in the former. Phosphate of lime, which exists in small quantity only in the crustacea, forms the greater part of the salts contained in the coverings of insects. The absence of carbonate of lime in these, whilst it forms the base of the cara- pace of the former, is another great point of difference : phosphate of iron is here found accompanying the phosphate of lime, as it is in almost all the parts of animals in which the latter is deposited. It is very probable that a little phosphate of magnesia may form part of the salts of the hard parts of insects, but the small quantity of matter on which I operated did not allow me to seek for it; I grounded my supposition, however, on the observation of M. Robiquet, who found phosphate of magnesia in cantharides, which he supposed to have been derived from the skeletons of those animals, The ditference that exists between insects and crustacea, as to. the nature of the salts of their hard parts, proves very palpably the error which some naturalists have fallen into, who have attempted to establish analogies of organization on the chemical nature of those organs. According to their views, we should expect to find nearly the same materials in insects, asin the crustacea to which they are so nearly allied, and yet we observe the most decided difference. What becomes of the law which a distinguished natu- ralist thinks he has observed, according to whom the superior ani- mals are characterized by their bones being formed of most phos- phate of lime, and a smaller proportion of carbonate, and the inferior, by having a large proportion of carbonate and a small quantity only of calcareous phosphate in their composition? On- this view insects must quit the place assigned them by Nature, and be associated with animals of the first order, to which, however, no naturalist has pretended to ally them. . If the results I have obtained do not coincide with the ideas of some naturalists, they will not, I believe, by any means astonish of the Corneous parts of Insects. iil truly philosophical observers, who will never found zoological affinities on characters so inconstant as the nature of the salts which enter into the ‘composition of the animal organs. Do we not know that these bodies are subjected to the influence of external causes of every kind ; that their composition varies with the habi- tation, food and age of the respective individuals, and perhaps from anumber of other circumstances? Were zoological affinities to’be founded on the chemical nature of the animal organs, instead of seeking them in inorganic materials which vary from many causes, and belong exclusively to no particular orgatis, but are found, either habitually, or accidentally*in almost all, would it not be more rational to found them on the nature of ‘the animal substance which, in truth, constitutes the organ, because it is the product of vital action? But, in my opinion, the chemical com- position is incapable of confirming the established laws of zoology ; its proper office seems to be to furnish us with facts calculated to enlighten physiology concerning the formation and functions of the organs. It is with this sole end that I undertook my present Jabours, which are to be regarded merely as the point of departure for subsequent researches, and as a feeble essay, in comparison with what yet remains to be done on this subject. Remarks on the preceding Paper. The results of the experiments detailed in the foregoing paper seem to illustrate the beantiful gradations that prevail through the whole range of animated nature, and to establish as it were a con- necting link between the vegetable and the animal kingdoms. One of the most striking differences, in the chemical composition of ‘animal and vegetable substances, is the general prevalence of nitro- ‘gen in the former, as one of their constituent elements, and the want of it in the latter. It has, however, been long known that the rule is not in either case without exception; thus nitrogen con- 112 Odier on the Chemical composition stitutes one of the elements of the hydrocyanic (Prussic) acid, and according to Dr. Thomson, probably enters also into the compo- sition of Indigo ; and Mr. Brande has very lately proved its exist- -ence in the vegetable salifiable bases, Cinchonia, Quinia, Mor- phia and Strychnia.* Some animal substances, on the contrary, are not found to contain any nitrogen, as picromel], and the animal oils, including fat. The discovery of M. Odier, if it be one, is not therefore absolutely new in a chemical sense, though none of the substances enumerated above have any analogous functions in the animal or vegetable economy, nor any external resemblance to his Chitine, which he, not unaptly, considers to bear that relation to insects, &c. that the wuody fibre bears to plants, and which, according to him, it most nearly resembles in its most obvious properties. M. Odier is led to his conclusion that Chitine contains no nitrogen, from the phenomena, amongst others, which it pre- sents when burnt in contact with the air, and especially from its not giving off any carbonate of ammonia when distilled in close vessels, I shall not dispute the accuracy of either of the facts, but it seemed to me, on reading his Memoir, that the absence of | nitrogen requires to be proved in a less equivocal manner than by the mere negative result, that the volatile products of its distilla- tion have no effect on the test papers exposed to their influence, before we can safely adopt his conclusion that the Chitine is really destitute of that element. Suppose an acid, the acetous for : instance, to be simultaneously formed in the distillation ; ammonia might be evolved and yet escape detection by the test applied. Such a case is at least possible, and the experiments I am about to: relate, render it, I think, not very improbable that it may have occurred in the present instance. The season of the year (winter) in which I made my experi- ments, precluding the possibility of obtaining a sufficient quantity of the same insects as those Odier operated on, I selected, because most easily procured, the common Cantharides of the shops—Lytta vesicatoria, Linn.—Cantharis versicatoria of Olivier and Latreille. , * Journal of Science, vol. 16, p. 279. _ of the Corneous parts of Insects. 113 This insect, according to the two last authors, feeds on leaves ; it is, therefore, as to its habits in that respect, similar to. the Sca- rabeus meloloutha, aud consequently not an improper subject to supply its place for the purposes of the experiments in ques- tion. Before I proceed to their detail, I shall briefly mention, that I found the same saline and other substances, in the ashes of the insects, as are mentioned by M. Odier, with the addition of a small portion of silica and magnesia, and a slight trace of manganese. ‘Their mode of burning, in contact with the atmos- phere, I also found perfectly to correspond with our author’s statements. I took a certain quantity of the entire insects, previously reduc- ed to a fine powder, and digested them nearly at a boiling heat in a strong solution of caustic potassa, continuing the digestion for several days, until the alkali had no further action on the residual carapace, which was then thoroughly washed, and dried at the temperature of 212° in a vessel connected with an exhausted re- ceiver, containing a large surface ef strong sulphuric acid. The last process was continued at least 48 hours, till all traces of va- pour had completely disappeared, and the carapace then immedi- ately enclosed in a well stopped phial. When used, it was again exposed to the heat of boiling water, to drive off any hygrometrical moisture it might have absorbed, (of which like most other powders it is extremely greedy) and weighed whilst warm. It was then suf- fered toremain in the pan of the balance till it ceased to gain weight, and the quantity of water so acquired deducted from that ob-- tained in the analysis. A further deduction was also made for the incombustible matter contained in the carapace, and not separable by the alkali. To be certain that it was pure, at Ieast inthe view required by M. Odier, I subjected a portion to distillation in a glass tube, in the neck of which a slip of moistened turmeric pa- per, and another coloured blue by the juice of the Hyacinthus non scriptus, (an exceedingly delicate test for either acid or alkaline matter) was euclosed—neither of which suffered discoloration in the slightest degree. The carapace, thus prepared, was burnt in green glass tubes, with protoxide of copper, having some clear copper filings above the mixture, and over that a quantity of per- ey Ou, I. H 114 Odier on the Chemical composition fectly dry amianthus, in the admirable apparatus invented by Mr. Cooper, employing at first a very gentle heat, and gradually raising it until the part of the tube containing the carapace was bright red hot throughout, and gas ceased to come over. The tube was then carefully weighed in a very delicate balance, the water expelled by heat, and the tube weighed again. The loss of weight (de- ducting that of the hygrometrical water previously ascertained as stated above) gave the quantity of water formed, and consequently that of the hydrogen in the carapace. The exact volume of gas at 60° produced by the combustion was next ascertained, and the carbonic acid absorbed by caustic potassa, the volume of which gave the weight of the carbon, and that of the residual gas, after allowing for the atmospheric air in the vacant part of the tube, gave in like manner the weight of the nitrogen, its real nature not being taken for granted, but in every case ascertained by direct experiment. The difference of weight of the sum of these ele- ments, and the quantity of carapace employed, is assumed to de- note the weight of the oxygen. I made many experiments in this manner, both with peroxide, and protoxide of copper, but to avoid prolixity, I shall give the results of the two last only, made with the protoxide, premising that in all nitrogen was constantly obtained, and in pretty uniform proportion. Exp.1. Three grains of carapace, the necessary deductions being made for hygrometrical water and incombustible matter, were found to be equivalent to 2-072 grains of pure dry carapace, and gave, by the mode of operating described above— Grs. Grs. Carbon...... 0°962 or per cent. 46°43 Hydrogen.... O°129 ..5....... ‘6°22 INitnegen .'s's. <-; 9239 sw: cles see 11:05 Oxygen occ. OFA Saciiieaets DHS] os 2:072 99°51 Exp.2. 4°75 grains of the same carapace, equivalent to 3°28 grains in a dry and pure state gave— of the Corneous parts of Insects. 115 Grs. Grs. Carbon...... 1°500 or per cent. 45°73 Hydrogem. 5.5 O11 87) am. sive o>): 5°70 Nisrezentsso Ol Us ssiney. > 9°54 Disyegen age seri 280) 5), oan oe. 39.02 3°230 99°99 On heating the tube, to ascertain the quantity of water formed in this experiment, (in which my friend J. F. Daniell, Esq. had the goodness to co-operate) the first portions that came over ex- haled a decided odour of prussic acid. The near accordance of the preceding results entitles me to consider them as not very wide of the true composition of the sub- stance in question. ‘'lhat they are absolutely accurate, in regard to the proportions of the several elements, I will not venture to assert, but I think there can be no question as to their quality, nor that nitrogen is essentially necessary to the composition of the carapace of insects, and consequently that M. Odier’s conclusion that it rather belongs to the vegetable than the animal kingdom is erroneous. I shall mention one more experiment.—An unweighed portion, consisting of a mixture of the elytra of the Silpha obscura, a car- Nivorous insect, Geotrupes stercorarius, which feeds on dung, and the Cetonia aurata, which feeds on vegetables, all perfectly purified by potassa, so as not in the slightest degree to change the colour of moistened turmeric paper exposed to the vapours in distillation, were burnt with peroxide of copper, merely to ascer- tain the quality of the gases produced. About 18 cubic inches were collected, which, after the action of potassa, left 1°35 cubic inch of nitrogen. The Prussic acid formed in the second experiment mentioned above is an additional proof that nitrogen is an element in the com- position of the carapace, being as our readers are aware a com- pound of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen. J.G. ©. 116 Analytical Notices: ANALYTICAL NOTICES. BRITISH ENTOMOLOGY, or Illustrations and Descrip- lions of the Genera of Insects, found in Great Britain and Treland ; containing coloured figures from Nature of the most rare and beautiful species, and of the Plants upon which they are found. By Joun Curtis, F.L.S. The first numbers of this interesting and useful work have just made their appearance. We are not at all disposed to withhold the due proportion of approbation which we think it merits: but we must take the liberty of throwing out a hint or two, by attend- ing to which the author is, in our opinion, more likely to ensure the success of his work, than he is by carrying it on in the same style as the first numbers. We do not complain of the execution ef this work, for we think that the Entomological part of it is very elegant and we believe it to be very correct, and highly deserving of our warmest praise; but we are far from agreeing with the author in his assertion that **a knowledge of botany is absolutely necessary in order to be able to collect insects with complete success ;” on the contrary we think that a general acquaintance with the usual plants of the country is all that an Entomologist requires ; he does not need, nor are the drawings of plants given in this work sufficient to convey to him, correct bota~ nical knowledge ; wherefore we think the author would do better to confine himself to the entomological part of the work and to make that as complete as possible, and not to waste his own time and talent, and his subscriber’s cash on those parts that are really useless, because in themselves incomplete ; the British plants being already well known, and a knowledge of them much better attain- ed from standard works, already in the hands of most scientific persons. Analytical Notices. 117 Further, we cannot help regretting that Mr. Curtis has not accompanied his English descriptions with Latin characters of each genus: could they have been added they would have rendered his work current on the continent to a much greater extent than it will be in its present form. As an entomological work we think the one before us bids fair to become a most decided proof of the superiority of British talent. The first number contains, tab. 1, Cicinprxa Sylvicola; tab. 2, Ve xtra Rivulorum ; tab. 3, DerternHita Euphorbie ; tab. 4, Pex- rAsTEs Pini; tab. 5, Crenopsora ornata. The second number consists also of five plates representing, tab. 6, Nesria livida; tab. 7, Oprenests Pini; tab. 8, Curysis ful- gida; tab. 9, Anrurax ornata; tab. 10, Noronecra maculata. We had written thus far when we observed on the wrapper of the second number a notification that the number of plates given each month is to be reduced to four, thus virtually advancing the price of the work ; we are indeed concerned to observe this, for we are persuaded that it must suffer from such a measure. The author would have done a much more acceptable service to science if he had increased the number of plates as he might very well have done, by omitting these common plants, and adding another genus of insects. A SuppLement to the Appendix of Capt. Parry's Voyage Jor the discovery of a north-west passage in 1819-20 ; con- taining an account of the subjects of natural history. The articles on Mammalia, Birds, Fishes, and marine invertebrate animals, contained in this small volume are by Capt. Sabine; the land invertebrate animals by the Rev, W. Kirby; and the Shells by Mr. J. E. Gray. Of the twelve Mammalia that are here mentioned as natives of the Arctic Regions, only one is described as a new species, namely the Lxrus glacialis or Polar Hare, which is white, its ears longer than the head, with black lips, its tail abbreviated, and its claws broad, depressed, and strong ; it is also smaller than the common 118 Analytical Notices. hare, and than the Lepus variabilis. It was killed in abundance on Melville Island. Thirty-two species of birds are noticed as having been seen within the Arctic circle. The characters which distinguish the Rock Grous, Tetrao rupestris, from the Ptarmigan, Tetrao lago- pus, are distinctly stated: but not a single new species is de- scribed in this supplement. Of the eight fish that are mentioned two are described as new, and two others are noticed as doubtful. The two new species are, 1st BLennivs polaris: imberbis, pinnis anali, caudali, dorsalique, unitis: of which one individual was found on the shore of North Georgia. 2d. Corrus polaris; im- berbis, capite spinis duabus, operculis spinis quatuor, armatis. It appears that only six species of insects were collected in the high latitude from the beginning of September to the beginning of Au- gust, most of which are described by Mr. Kirby as new: they are Ist Bomsyx Sabini; cinereous wings incumbent, antenne of the male setaceous, bipectinate at the base, with short rays. ‘¢ Accord- ing to the modern system this species might probably be regarded as belonging to a new genus, but the specimens are too much in- jured to enable me to get a clear idea of the palpi, consisting of two joints? if admitted as such it might be named Psychophora. ° From the length of the tongue it seems to come between the other Bombycide and Noctua, though in habit and stature it approxi- mates to Phalena, Fab. It was found in a swampy part of Mel- ville Island.” 2d. Bomsus arcticus ,; black, with the base and apex of the thorax and the anterior half of the abdomen pale yellow. Length of the body, male 7 lines, female 11 lines. Syn. Apis alpina O. Fabr. Faun. Grenl. 155, distinct from the Linnean Apis alpina. 3d. Crenornora Parrii: black, wings brownish witha white marginal spot towards the apex, surmounted by a black one, tip of the margin of the abdominal segment pale. Length 54 lines, Ath. Cuironomus polaris ; black, abdomen hairy, wings lacteous, Length 4 lines. A small caterpillar and a very minute spider, added to the above, completes the list of Polar insects. Of Invertebrate marine animals Captain Sabine mentions thirty- three, which he has arranged according to the Lamarckian system. Analytical Notices 119 Theunknown species he has described are 1st, Dianma glacialis; campanulata, pistillo ore quadrangulare, costis quatuor cirri-pro- ductis. Found in Baffin’s Bay and the adjacent seas, but rare. 2d. AsrErtas polaris ; pentagona, pagina superiore tesselato-gra- nulata, margine articulato spinoso: a single specimen was taken by a drag net on the coast of Melville Island. 3d. Puoxiciitus proboscideus ; proboscide corpore duplo longiore, mandibulis nul- lis, palpis inungulatis: found at ebb tide on the shores of the North Georgian Islands. 4th. Ipotea Baffini; linearis, anten- nis externis corpore longioribus, dorso spinoso, caude segmento ultimo elongato, apice subulato: brought up by the trawl in con- siderable numbers from twenty fathoms depth on the west coast of Baffin’s Bay. 5th. Gammarus loricatus ; rostro corniformi deflexo, dorso carinato, segmentis posticé et acute productis : in pools of water left by the ebb tide on the shores of the Polar Sea. 6th, Taxitrus Edvardsie ; rostro corniformi, antennis subequalibus, corpore ovato depresso, caud’ compressa, tricarinata, spinosa : bronght up in the traw] on the western coast of Davis’ Strait. 7th. Taxitrus Cyanee ; capite obtusissimo, antennis subaqualibus, corpore Jatiore, pedibus quatuor anticis inunguiculatis: parasitic on the Cyanea arctica. ‘8th. Crancon septemcarinatus ; thorace septemcarinato; carinis serratis ; pedibus secundi paris brevissimis inunguiculatis: taken in the trawl on the west coast of Davis’ Strait. 9th. Atpuerus polaris ; thoracis dimidio posteriore )zvi, anteriore carinato serrato ; chelis et unguibus apice nigris : brought up from fifty fathoms depth on the coast of Melville Island. Of most of the above and of several other marine invertebrate animals there are apparently correct figures in the work before us, Several new species of shells are described by Mr. Gray in this little volume; the first, namely, Buccm. Sabinii is pro- bably only a variety of Buccm. corneum. 2d. Nucuxa arctica. Testa ovali-elliptica, levis, tenuis, fragilis, flavescens ; latere an- tico lato, rotundato, postico brevi, oblique trnncato. 3d. Nr- CANIA crenata; testa ovali-elliptica, virescens, coucentricé sul- cata; lunula oblongo-lanceolata impressa; margine crenulato. Ath. Crassina arctica ; testa subrotundo-ovata, convexa. nigra, concentrice striolata; umbones subsulcati; lunula impressa obs 120 Analytical Notices. longo-ovata; margine integerrimo. 5th, Arca glacialis; testa: ovali-elliptica, tenui, villosi, alba, concentrice et transversim striata ; postice rotundaté ; umbonibus approximatis ; - dentibus sub-obsoletis ; margine integerrimo. 6th, Mopioxta levigata; . testa ovali-elliptica, convexa, virescens, anticé obsolete costo- striata, posticé rotundata levigata. 7th, Prcren vitreus; testa orbicularis, tenuis, hyalina, planulata, levissima, lucida, sub- equivalvis ; auriculis subequalibus, levibus. 8th, Bananus: gla- cialis ; testa subcylindrica, obliqua, albida, obsolete transversim striata; operculo antice profundé transversin sulcato, posticé irregulariter striato ; apice acuto, inflexo. In the paper on Rock Specimens, furnished by Mr. Konig, is the description of a new species of fossil Zoophyte, which he has called Catenipora Parvii ; the following are its characters ; C. tu- bulis crassiusculis, compressis, collectis in laminas sinuatas varie | inter sese coalitas ; tubulorum orificies evatis sepe confluentibus ; dissepimentis confertissimis : found by Captain Parry in Prince Regent’s Inlet, at the foot of a high hill ;—én transition Lime- stone 2 On FOSSIL SHELLS, by Lewis Weston Dittwyn, VR JE AS ‘Tur object of this paper seems to be to draw the attention of Geologists to Fossil Shells as being the most numerous, and gene- rally the best preserved organic remains, and consequently the most interesting for geological research. By availing ourselves of certain analogies, proved by the exact conformity in the struc-~ ture of many of these fossils with living genera, Mr. Dillwyn thinks some circumstances attending the geological distribution of Fossil Shells may be observed, which have hitherto escaped notice. The principal circumstance which Mr. Dillwyn has pointed out, is the remarkable paucity of the Carnivorous 'Trache- lipodes in ihe older beds, from the Transition Lime to the Lias, in which the chambered (Carnivorous) Cephalopoda abound : and judging from the eccurnence in such great numbers of the * Philosophical Transactions, 1823, Read June the 5th. Analytical Notices. 121 carnivorous Trachelipodes in the formation above the chalk, Mr, D. thinks that the vast and sudden decrease of one predaceous tribe, has been provided for by the new creation of many genera, and a myriad of species possessed of similar appetencies, and yet formed for obtaining their prey by habits entirely different from those of the Cephalopodes. Small circular holes bored in shells by the predaceous Trache- lipodes, so common among recent shells, and also not unfrequent among the fossils, but to be seen only in those of tertiary forma- tions, suggest to Mr. D. the probability that the Aporrhaides* and other fossil Trachelipodes, that occur in secondary formations, though really carnivorous, were in the habit of feeding only on dead animals. We do not think this altogether confirmed by fact, for in the green sand, the newest (we believe) in which the Aporrhaides occur, many of the bivalves are pierced exactly in the same manner as by the carnivorous Trachelipodes: at the same time we ought to remark, that the general contents of the green sand, are such as would warrant the supposition, that its formation was anterior to the generality of tertiary formations, and posterior to the secondary, inasmuch as it contains Ammo- nites as well as carnivorous Trachelipodes. We think the Scientific Enquirer would be amply repaid for the trouble of pursuing the subject of Mr. Dillwyn’s paper. —— ee [ The three following notices are extracted from the ‘‘ Memoires de la Societé d’histoire naturelle de Paris.””’ We reserve the ac- count of two other papers contained in the same volume, (“¢ On the Geology of the Environs of Antwerp,” and * on the Genus Melanopsis,” for another opportunity. | Memoir on Branchiobdella, anew Genus of ANNELIDES of the family Hinupinem, by M. Auc. Opirr. Tue animal which forms the subject of this Memoir is parasitic, and was found on the branchie of the Crayfish. The generic characters assigned to it are as follows :— * From Aporrhais, a generic name given by Petiver to the Strombus Pes- Pelecani. Linn. 122 Analytical Notices. Body contractile, slightly flattened, composed of seventeen rings, terminated by a prehensile disk; head oblong, furnished with two lips; mouth with two horny, triangular maxille, the upper one the larger ; without eyes. The situation of this genus is between Hirudo and Trochetia. It is viviparous. Name of the species, B. Astaci. B. Memoir on ACH LYSIA, a new genus of Trachean Arach- nides, by M. J. V. Auvouin. Tuis singular parasitical animal, discovered by M. Audouin, attached to the upper part of the abdomen of Dytiscus marginalis under the wings, is of an ovoid general form, very much resem- bling a common glass retort, with an elongated bulb, and a very short rounded neck, abruptly recurved upon the bulb, and form- ing a deep notch. Its colour, after having been preserved for several months in spirits of wine, was a bright yellow orange, varied with lemon yellow; its head, if indeed it exists, is not distinguished from the body: it has no eyes, nor antenne, nor thorax, nor is the body divided into segments,—in fact, it appears to possess neither respiratory nor excretory organs: but it has six legs and a small beak (swcoir), behind which is placed the sternum, divided into three pairs of squarish lamine, and may be considered as the first joints of the legs, one of which takes its rise from the upper corner of each of these square laminz : the legs have six joints each, and are terminated by a point: the beak and legs are placed in the above-mentioned deep notch, so that wheu attached by its beak, the animal can only lie on one side, M. Audouin places the Achlysia next to Leptus of Latreille, and names the species 4, Dytisci. Explanation of Plate 4. Jf. 2. Shows two specimens of Achlysia Dytisci, of their natural size, adhering to the abdomen of a Dytiscus, whose elytra and wings have been taken away to expose them. Analytical Notices. 123 J. 3. Profile view of the right side of an Achlysia. jf. 4. The animal opened on the side of the belly. J. 5. Profile view of the left side of an Achlysia. J. 6. The beak and six legs. Jj- 7. Portion of the Achlysia very highly magnified : this figure shows that the beak and legs, situated at the base of the notch, had not the power of reaching to its lower orifice, and that it is only by lying on its sides, which are very compressed, that it cau attach itself to external objects. Note on the genus Astarte, Sowerby, (Crassina, La- marck,) by M. DE LE JoNKAIRE, (p. 127.) Arrer some remarks on the strata in which the fossil species of this genus are found, a monograph is given of the whole of them, comprising four new species from the *¢ Calcaire grossier ;” nine from Sowerby’s Mineral Conchology ; and three from Broc- chi (Venus Br.). The author very properly retains the name given to this genus by Sowerby, long before Lamarck’s work appeared,—following the genera of recent and fossil shells, by Mr. G. B. Sowerby. The names of the species enumerated are as follows—A. Omalii, Corbuloides, Basterotiit, Burtinea, (Jonkaire,) lucida, elegans, cuneata, plana, obliquata, lineata, excavata, planata, rugata, (Sowerby), senilis, incrassata, dysera, (Veneres, Brocchi). Figures are given of the four first, and of A. rugata, Sow. B. Mineral Conchology. Tue 78th number of this work contains, Plate 444, Astarte trigonalis, orbicularis and pumila; Pl. 451, Ammonites levius- culus, corrugatus and varicosus; P\.452, Am. Turneri: Pl. 453, Am. rotiformis ; Pl. 454, Am. multicostatus ; Pl). 455, Actwon cuspidatus and acutus. 124 Proceedings of Learned Societies. Genera of Recent and Fossil Shells. The 22d number contains Melania, Melanopsis, to which is united Pirena of Lam.; Serpula including Spirorbis, Vermetus, and Vermilia, Lam.; Cassis; and Umbrella; in his account of this latter genus Mr. Sowerby has explained the cause of De Blain- ville’s mistake, which gave rise to the name Gastroplax, which he has applied to the animal ; for he has shown that in the iden- tical specimen examined by De Blainville, the shell has been de- tached from its natural situation on the back, and fixed with cement to the under part of the foot. Art. X VIL— Proceedings of Learned Societies on subjects connected with Soology. ROYAL SOCIETY. The first meeting of this Society for the present session took place on the 20th of November last, when the Croonian Lecture was read, On the Anatomy of the Lluman Brain, as compared with that of Fishes, Insects, and Worms; by Six E. Home, Bart. V. P. R. S. This lecture was very short, and consisted, principally, of re- marks illustrative of the microscopical drawings by Mr. Bauer, with which it was accompanied, some more particular observations being reserved for the explanation of them. Occasion was taken to award a high and just tribute to the microscopical investigations of Swammerdam, which were unequalled by any, it was remark- ed, except those of Mr. Bauer. The ability of both observers was of such and so rare a nature, that, with respect to each, it had been ascribed to some particular construction of the microscope and it had even been suspected that Swammerdam had a peculiar method of using the instrument, which had died with him. Proceedings of Learned Societies. 125 A portion of very recent human brain, merely steeped in dis- tilled water, was examined by Mr. Bauer, who perceived in it rows of globules proceeding in straight lines from the cortical into the medullary part. A comparison was instituted of the human brain with the same organ in fishes, insects, and worms. Inthe Tench, the brain has a central cavity, and its basis is nodulated. In the Bee, that organ is larger in proportion than in the other insects which have been examined ; it is also large in the Moth and in the Caterpillar. The reading was commenced, likewise, of Some Observations on the Migration of Birds ; by the late Dr. Eowanp Jenner, F.R.S.; 212 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. the Ampullarie, where it is shelly. In the Zoophagous Cteno- branchia, or the channel-mouthed spiral shells, the nucleus of the Operculum (which in these is always horny,) is near one end, but the annular structure still continues to be exhibited. In some few of these, the nucleus, which is near the point, begins to be slightly incurved, thus leading on to the other group, or the Spiral Opercula which are analogous to the spiral shells, increasing like them by the deposition of the new matter on the edge of the last whorle. This sort of Operculum is common to all the Phytophagous Ctenobranchia, or the entire-mouthed spiral shells, as the Tur- binide, Cerithiade, Melanie ; and the Cyclostomadz. The Oper- culum is commonly attached to the animal alone ;. but sometimes, as in Neritina, it is articulated to the columella. It varies also in its substance, which is either horny or shelly ; in the number of its whorles; and in its size with regard to the mouth; and these variations afford much assistance in the formation of natural groups. The Opercula are used medicinally on the continent, and were used by our physicians, for they are contained in the old Pharma- copeias. The true Blatta Byzantina, or Sweet hoof, is the Operculum of the Pteroceras, which somewhat resembles the claw ‘of an animal. The false Umbilicus Marinus, or Sea navel (for the Acetabularia is the true,) is the large shelly operculum of a Turbo; and the small shelly ones are used at present in the Island of Guernsey under the name of eye-stones, to be placed on the eyes of persons who have sand or gravel in their eyes, for the purpyse, as they say, of travelling round the eye and bringing the sand out; but in fact they only separate the lid from the eye, and thus allow it to clear itself by its continued motion. § 6. On the Clausium. Of all the wonderful contrivances employed by nature for the protection of these animals, there is none which is more calculated to excite the admiration of the Conchologist than the Clausium, an elastic appendage which closes the aperture of the Clausiliaw, a genus of land Mollusca. It consists of a spirally twisted, thin, shelly plate, inclosed in the last whorle of the shell, and attached io the columella by an elastic pedicle. When the animal is re- a On the Clausium. 213 tracted within its shell, this plate nearly covers the aperture at a little distance within the mouth, and coming in contact with a transverse plait on the outer lip, leaves only a small canal formed between the outer plait and the posterior angle of the mouth, and sometimes an elongated longitudinal plait on the inner lip. When the animal wishes to protrude itself, it pushes the plate on one side into a groove situated between the inner plait and the columella, where it is detained by the pressure of the body of the animal, leaving the aperture free, and when the animal withdraws itself, the plate springs forward by the elasticity of its pedicle, and closes the aperture. ‘This curious structure, and also the plaits of the mouth, which are intimately connected with it, are not formed until the animal has nearly reached maturity. It is best exhibited by breaking off the outer part of the aperture to the distance of about halfa whorle, when it will generally be found free ; but in order to exhibit it behind the columella in its natural position, when the animal is exserted, it is necessary to kill the animal in that situation, and then suffer it to dry before the outer lip is broken off, and the pedicle will thus become fastened to the side by means of the dried mucus ; it may, however, at any time be relaxed by a little moisture, when it will instantly resume its elasticity, and spring from its concealment. This part was, I believe, first described * by the accurate Otho Frederic Muller, in his excellent Historia Vermium &c. in 1773, and by him called Ossicula and Scala. He beautifully and accu- rately describes its peculiar function. Draparnaud has since de- scribed it as anew discovery, although well acquainted with Muller’s work, which he quotes frequently ; he does not, however, seem to have been aware of its use. Cuvier also, in his ** Regne Animal, » avows his ignorance of its use. In the Annals of Philosophy for 1822, there is a very good description of its mechanism, by Mr. Miller of Bristol, but that gentleman also appears not to have seen Muller’s description, as he wishes to take to himself the cre- dit of the discovery both of the Clausium and its use, for having shewn it to Dr. Leach im 1814 previous to the publication of Dra- parnaud’s work. * Ithad been before mentioned by Daubenton in his Distribution metho- dique des Coquillages, in the Memoires de V Academie des Sciences. 214 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. § 7. On the Epiphragma. The Epiphragma is a membraneous or chalky substance secreted by the animal, and closing the aperture of the shell in winter, and in very dry weather during the summer. It is peculiar to the la shells, or Pulmoniferous Mollusca, with retractile tentacula and pedicled eyes. As soon as the animal becomes sensible of the approach of either cold or drought, but more especially of the for- mer, he retreats within his shell and secretes a quantity of mucus- like substance, which. gradually becomes harder and covers the outer extremity of the retracted body. It has generally a small triangular mark over the aperture near the hole in the edge of the mantle, which conducts the air into the respiratory cavity. Some- times, as in the Helix Pomatia, cundidissima, &c. the whole of the Epiphragma becomes shelly; in this case the animal forms a second membraneous covering, more internally, at some little distance from that first formed, and exactly similar to the external cover- ing of the other species. On the approach of warm and damp weather the animal secretes a small quantity of mucus, which loosens the adhesion which had taken place between the Epi- phragma and the sides of the aperture, and the former is thrown off by the pressure of the animals foot. When another is required, the whole process is commenced anew. Various names have at different times been given to thisypart. The ancient authors called it Mana, KaaAvugea, and ’EmimndAuumcs Thus Dioscorides called the Helix naticoides, which is remark- able on account of its large convex lid, Mwuaria; and Gesner, for a similar reason, gave the name Pomatia to the shell which we now call Helix Pomatia, which has been whimsically trans- lated into Apple or Orchard Snail. Lister, with his character- istic accuracy, designated it as Operculum saliva confectum, and Muller distinguishes it from the true opercula by the name of Operculum hybernum. Draparnaud, according to the French custom, has given it the new but very expressive name of Epi- phragma; and Montague the inaccurate one of Hybernaculum. T was inclined to adopt the former of the above names, but Dr. Goodall informs me that it was used also for the true operculum, * Chambered Shells : Epidermis of Shells. 215 which from the resemblance of the hofhy ones to claws of animals, was usually called by the Greeks “Owé, Bazrro, and by Pliny Cavum. I have therefore for the present, at least, kept the name of Draparnaud. § 8. On the formation of chambered and decollated Shells. The chambered shells, as the Nautili, seem evidently to be formed on the same principle as other shells; and the chambers are added after the formation of the shell, for the purpose of holding the straight body of the animal; the siphon being only a shelly tube formed by an appendage at the end of the body. The cause of the formation of the chambers appears to be, that as the animal enlarges, the shell, which is inelastic, must consequently be too small for it; it therefore gradually lengthens and enlarges the cone of the shell, and the body, which does not so much increase in length as in diameter, becomes too short for the cavity of the shell, and would consequently leave a space behind it, whichis not consistent with the usual economy of the Mollusca. This space is therefore obliterated by a secretion from the base of the mantle. But as filling up the whole with shelly matter would occasion the animal to drag after it much useless weight, and thus prevent its floating, it is therefore closed by a shelly diaphragm, leaving the space behind filled with air, which from its lightness assists the economy of these curious animals, by enabling them to float with greater ease. A similar peculiarity takes place in several of the Turpitelle, and other shells where the spiral cone is very ‘ long and slowly enlarges 3 while in many shells the part beyond the diaphragm falls off, and they by that means become truncated or decollated, as in the Helix decollata, H. purpurea, the Melanix, Cerithia, &c. &c. § 9. On the “ Epidermis” of Shells. The external surface of shells is. generally covered with a kind of web, that has been usually, from a fancied analogy to the cuticle ~ of the body, or the epidermis of plants, been called E:pidermis. Lamarck observing the error of the name, which carried with it ae a 216 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. a peculiar theoretical doctrine, that the shell was similar to the Rete Mucosum of animals, instead of being analogous to the hair, nails, and other appendages of the skin, proposed the name of Drap Marine ; but as this web is found in land and fresh-water shells, as well as in marine ones, this name is evidently worse than the former. Now although I allow that the shells of these various stations, have their peculiar kind of epidermis, I cannot think that it would be well to give three names to the same sort of covering ; to obviate this difficulty, I propose to call this web Periostraca, a name formed after that of the membrane which invests the bones of quadrupeds, which is called Periosteum, and which surrounds the bone as the Perzostraca surrounds the shell. This name carries with it no theoretical view. In my observations on the formation of shells, I stated that they were formed by a successive deposition of layers of shelly matter ; now each of these layers consists of a layer of animal matter, and a certain quantity of carbonate of lime, according to the structure of the shell; these layers may mostly be traced by placing the shell in very dilute muriatic acid, so as very slowly to dissolve the’ calcareous matter, when the animal matter will be left in the form of plates, giving in fact the skeleton of the animal fabric of the shell. The same circumstance may be shewn by exposing the shell to the influence of fire, when the animal matter is des- troyed, and the calcareous alone left; but if this latter process is not carried to too great an extent, the plates of animal matter may be seen charred, forming black lines in the white chalky matter, if the shell is broken transversely. is Now from attentive examination I am inclined to believe, that the Periostraca is formed by the outer edges of the plates of animal matter, [which has no cretaceous matter deposited in it, or only a very small quantity,] being soldered together and forming a kind of external coat. I am more inclined to this opin- ion from the well known fact, that the innermost part of each of the plates of shelly matter, is much the most solid, and contains ~ the greatest portion of earthy matter; from this it is often called, when reflected over the back of the shell, as in the Cypreex, the Porcellaneous coat ; and we find as we come toward the outer \ ! On the Ligament of Bivalves. Bt edge, there is less and less of this latter substance deposited, so that at the end the plates are only formed of the animal matter. Now as these plates are deposited in a semi-fluid state, why should not their edges be soldered together, and form this external coat ; for we find that it is formed of concentric striz, similar to the strie of growth, and that it separates more readily at these striz than elsewhere ? This substance is formed at the external part of most shells, but varies very much in outward appearance ; it thus offers very good characters for the distinction of Families; being sometimes very thick, as in the Unionide, at others very thin; and sometimes, as in the Cypree, being covered by the reflexion of the inner surface of the shell overit. The Olive, Marginelle, &c. appear to be desti- tute of it altogether, as well as those few shells that are con- stantly covered by the lobes of the mantle being soldered over them. This Epidermis is formed on the external part of the shelly operculum, and we may perhaps say that the horny oper- cula are entirely formed of the same kind of substance as the Periostraca. § 10. On the “ Ligament” of Bivalves. Perhaps there is no part of the shell which has been so much misunderstood as the ligament; some have considered it as pos- terior, others as anterior; and some, as Lamarck and Burrows, sometimes on one side and sometimes on the other; some have made it dorsal and others ventral. But the position is not the only source of error, for its functions and structure have been equally misunderstood ; thus most persons have evidently con- sidered it as an homogeneous substance. Lamarck partly (though unconsciously), corrected this error, but he did not arrive at the truth, for he divided his Mactracés into those that have only an internal, and those which have an external and internal liga- ment; but I do not know what he could correctly place in the former section, for the shells which he refers to it, have as distinctly an external ligament as the others. He committed however a still greater error respecting the functions of this Vou. f. P 218 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. part; for he observes, that ‘“‘ If the ligament be external it is extended when the shell is shut, and if the muscle, which keeps the valve close, be relaxed, the mere elasticity of the ligament opens them. If on the contrary, the ligament be internal, it is compressed when the shell is shut, but on the muscle which keeps it so relaxing, the elasticity of the compressed ligament serves to open it.” How far different is the fact! That part which is generally considered as the ligament is al- ways formed of two very distinct substances, one of which is always external, is somewhat analogous to the ligaments which connect the bones of Vertebrata, and is like them quite in- elastic ; it appears to be of the same substance as the periostraca, and is attached to the outer upper margin of the shell. In some shells it is very thick and distinct, in others it is very thin and scarcely visible. In the Pholade it appears to be thin, and to have . the shelly plates imbedded in its substance; this substance I am inclined to call the gament. The other substance which has been confounded with the for- mer, is somewhat similar to the cartilage of the Vertebrata ; it is eminently elastic and formed of parallel series of condensed trans- verse fibres, which are directed from the hinge of one valve to the similar part of the other. This substance is always situated within the other or true ligament, sometimes quite close to it and similar to it in form, in which case it is attached just below the edge of the ligament, to a protuberance on the dorsal margin of the shell; this protuberance is very distinct in the Tellinade and is sometimes called the Callus; but, as my friend Mr. James Sowerby observed, it may be better called, from its use, the Ful- crum. At other times it is placed at a distance from the ligament, in which case it is called internal, that is to say, it is enclosed in a cavity amongst the teeth, or in one peculiar to itself, as in Mya. This cavity from its triangular shape and concentric striz, occa- sioned by the growth of the cartilage taking place at the internal margin, and thus iucreasing in breadth and thickness so as to forma triangular wedge, has been called by Lister, the Cochleate or spoon- shaped cavity. This body I call for the present the cartilage. Now when the valves are brought together by the action of the On the opening and closing of Bivalves. 219 adductor muscles, the cartilage is always compressed, and when it is situated in a shelly cavity, all allow it to be so; and it is exactly the same when it is walled in by an inelastic ligament ‘on one side, and pressed upon on the other by the callus; thus there is always the same endeavour to regain its situation and open the valves, let it be either external or internal. The only shells that appear to be deficient in this cartilage, are the Myastropha of my arrangement of Mol/usca, where its place is supplied by an abductor muscle. The cartilage, which is very peculiar for its black colour and pearly lustre, and for its great elasticity when fresh and moist, appears to be the nerve (Nervus) of Aldrovandus, when he is speaking of the Spondylus, and he appears to have had a very good idea of the use and structure of this part. When this substance is dry it is very brilliant, and has a fine display of colours; and I am informed that it is used by the jewellers for black opal, but it is apt to crack; by what name they call it [ am not aware, which I much regret, as being of sucha peculiar structure and use, it is worthy of a distinct appellation. § 11. On the Opening and Closing of Bivalves. From what I remarked in the last observations, the valves of the bivalve shells must constantly have a tendency to be open or sepa- rate from one another; now, these valves are closed by the ad- ductor muscles of the animal, which are generally considered as the only agents employed for the purpose of counteracting the elastic cartilage ; but it is a well known fact that (voluntary) muscular action is only a periodical power, which requires rest by relaxation, before it can be called again into action, and that it would be very painful were it to be continually on the stretch, as any person may prove on himself by trying to keep the arm ex- tended, or any part of the body confined in a particular position for a length of time. This effect is counteracted by a peculiar elastic ligament, similar to the Paxwax, Whit Leather, or Liga- mentum Nuch of the herbivorous quadrupeds, which is formed for P2 220 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. a similar purpose, that of supporting the head without muscular power when the head is dependent for the purpose of grazing. This ligament is placed on the inner side, close to or partly attached to the adductor muscle, as may be observed by cutting the body usually so called across, when the two substances will be most distinctly visible, the one muscular, and the other eminently fibrous and pearly. Now this ligament allows the valves to separate to a certain distance, and no further. The natural position of the valves, when at rest, is separate from one another, as far as this ligament permits them to open, as every body who has observed the habit of the animals will allow ; but when any thing touches the animal, the adductor muscle is immediately put in action and the shells are closed; but they can only remain closed, till the muscles are tired. That the valves are kept from separating beyond these limits by this elastic ligament is proved by the circumstance, that when the animal is dead, and the muscle is in a nearly decayed state, the valves are kept at this distance from each other, or when the muscular part is cut through, the valves do not exceed these limits ; but when the adductor ligament and the muscle are both cut through, the valves spring open to nearly as wide as they can without breaking the true ligament, unless where they are stopped by processes on the outside of the shell, as the beaks or the plates which cover the ligament, as in the Cytheree. This admirable structure was first pointed out by my friend Dr. Leach, who read a paper on it, and demonstrated the fact, before the Royal Academy of Paris; much to their amusement, as being the first Englishman who had read a paper at their Academy, and [ need not add, with his vivacity, that he did not disgrace his country, This discovery was noticed in the Bulletin of Science, for 1818; and Dr. Leach gave a sliort notice of it in the Annals of Philosophy for 1820, p. 111. but it appears that his view has not been clearly understood cither by the English or the Continental Naturalists. On Reversed Shells. 991 § 12. On Reversed Shells. The non-symmetrical shells are often what are usually called reversed or sinistral shells, that is, belonging to animals which have their organs of respiration placed on the right instead of the left side in the Ctenobranchous, and the aperture of the respiratory cavity on the left instead of the right, in the Pneumonobranchous Mollusca, so that they are somewhat analogous to left-handed persons of the human race; but they are much more seriously affected, for the whole of their viscera are equally reversed, as was pointed out by Lister, who wrote a very interesting paper on this subject. In the shell of all these animals, the whorles of the spire, instead of turning and descending from the left to the right, turn the con- trary way, that is from the right to the left, so that the shell if placed in its natural position, that is with its apex toward the observer, with its mouth downwards, will have the latter placed on the left side of the axis. This kind of structure, which is mostly an accidental variety, is sometimes natural to a whole group of shells, when their whorles revolve, and their form is much more regular than when it is only a monstrosity, as is the case with the Physe, Planorbes, Clau- silie, Sc. ‘There are other species and groups where it is not uncommon to find some specimens, or species, in one way, and the others in the other, asin some Pyrule, Achatinw, Ampul- larie, and [Helices, whilst in other groups this is of very rare oc- currence. This peculiarity has been generally considered as con- fined to the spiral univalves. But in my description of the shells in the Appendix to Capt. Parry’s first Voyage, I first described it as found in the bivalves, which may be considered as formed of a dextral and sinistral univalve shell united together by their mouths. Since that time I have observed the same fact in several other species. There are two specimens of anew Lucina,* in the Tankerville collection, which, as pointed out by my friend Mr. * I call this new shell Lucina Childrine ; it is distinguished from all the other Lucine by being unequivalved, and approaching nearly in form to the Cy= therea exuleta; there is also another specimen in the British Museum. 222 Mr. Gray’s Conchological Observations. ‘ Children, most admirably illustrate this fact; for the valves being unequally convex, if the two shells are placed on their most con-< vex valves, their beaks turn towards each other, as the mouths ofa reversed and regular spiral univalve would do if placed on their backs. This fact is most easy of discovery in the unequivalved shells, where it often takes place, but it can only be discovered in the equivalve ones, by an attentive examination of their teeth, when the number and position vary in the two valves; in which case, as in the one above quoted, the teeth of the right valve will be on the left, and vice versa. But here this curious circumstance, as in the univalves, often takes place naturally, more especially in the attached and inequi- valved shells, which are sometimes attached by one, and sometimes by the other valve, to which Lamarck refers when he divides his Chame into those which have the beaks turned to the right, and those which have them turned to the left; when the fact is, that they are only attached by the right or left valve; but I have seen two specimens of the same species, which were under the same predicament as the two Lucine Childrine, and consequently one of these shells was truly reversed. The symmetry of the two sides of the animal, and of the shell, precludes this variety from taking place in the other shells. § 13. On the Structure of Peneroplis and Pollontes, of De Montfort. 4 In my observations on the structure of the chambered shells, I attempted to explain the formation of the Nautilus Pompilius, Spirula, §c.; but io all these the shell ends ina cavity, which is commenced by a concave diaphragm: but in some of the minute species there is no terminal cavity, as the she)! ends by a convex diaphragm, which is usually perforated by a simple hole, a star, or a series of minute foramina; and appears to be formed by a cers {ain number of hollow cells, which are variously placed, sometimes spirally, as in Peneroplis, and at others irregularly, as in Pollontes, which Montague called Serpula seminulum. I do not know what M. Defrance on Bellerophon. 223 animals are inclosed in or inclose these shells, but I must beg of some of my friends who live on the sea side, to send me some in spirits, for I doubt their being similar to those which form the Nautilus Spirula, a kind of Cephalopode; although my friend Mr. J. Sowerby pointed out to me the affinity that exist between these shells and the bone of the cuttle-fish; perhaps Montague may not be very wrong in placing them with the Annelides. [ To be continued. | Ant. XXV. Correction of the Characters of the Genus Bellerophon, established by De Montfort, in his Conchy- liologie. By M. Derrance.* SeverA species of fossil shells are found in the Kissel, a canton of the duchy of Juliers, inthe environs of Chimay, a small town of the Pays Bas, and in Ireland, which Denys Montfort, and other authors have placed in the genus Bellerophon. This genus, is classed, in the Conchyliologie systematique, with the chambered univalve shells, and amongst other characters assigned to it by the author, has smooth septa perforated by a siphon. Unfortunately, this naturalist, although possessed of remarkable talents, has nevertheless committed very numerous errors, both in his descriptions, and in the figures which he has published One of these errors is the assertion that the shells of the genus Bellero- phon are chambered. I possess two species of them, one of which belonged to De Montfort’s collection, and perhaps served as the type for the description and figure which he has given at page 51 of the work quoted above. Having suspected that these shells, filled with calcareous spar, are monothalamous, I sawed one of them through, transversely, and found, in fact, that it is convolute, like the Nautilus, but that it has no septa; so that instead of belonging to the division of Polythalamous Cephalo- “ Translated from the original, in the Annales des Sciences Naturellcs, vol. 1, p. 264, 224 M. Vauthier on a new Species of Epeira. poda, this genus should be placed in that of the Monothalamous Cephalopoda, near the Argonante, whose characters, as given by M. Lamarck, cannot apply to it, since the shell of the latter is very thin, whilst that of the Bellerophontes is very thick, and instead of the double keel of the Argonaute, we find in the middle of the back of the Bellerophontes a single keel, dividing the shell into two equal parts. The latter differ moreover from the former, in the whorles of the spire being very numerous, whereas the Argonaute are curved, but not convolute, so that nearly the whole of the shell is perceptible, the summit of which is extraordinarily obtuse. The Argonaut and the Bulle are the shells which the Belle- rophontes appear to resemble most, but still differ from them so much, that it seems right to form the latter into a separate genus. In that case they may be described by the following characters : Shell free, univalve, not chambered, spirally convolute, depressed, shuttle-shaped 2 (formant la navette)—the last whorle of the spire inclosing all the rest ; aperture very oval, receiving, in the middle part, the back of the shell. Art. XXXVI. Description of anew species of Arachnides, of the Genus Epeira, of M. Walckenaer. By C.VautTulER*. [ With a Plate. ] Tuis new species of Arachnides, originally from Java, which I shall describe under the name of Epeira curvicauda, was commu- nicated to me by M. Léman. [Its singular organization, and the perfect state in which it is preserved, have determined me to make an analytical drawing of it, and to publish its description. Not having found in the collection of the Museum of Natural History, which [ have carefully examined, nor in the authors whom I have consulted, any individual perfectly identical with * Translated from the Annales des Sciences Naturelles, vol. i. p. 261. Its Description, 225 this, I have thought myself entitled to publish it as new, and thus enrich the genus Epeira with an additional species. Epeira curvicauda.—V avTHIER. Description.—Body nearly triangular, fifteen lines long, from the terminal hook of the mandibles to the extremity of the abdo- minal processes (cornes caudales ;) head furnished with two horny, black, smooth mandibles (machoires,) terminated by a scaly hook, of a clear brown colour, sinuated externally near the arti- culation ; each mandible (machoire) armed with a double row of four unequal teeth, the last being the largest. The interval between the teeth is furnished with black, stiff hairs, which may be compared to eyelashes, pretty long, extending beyond the in- terior line of the mandibles, (machoires) and indiscriminately mingled together at the base, near the superior margin of the thorax. Two velvety palpi, of a dark brown colour, are attached to the sides of the maxilla, (machoires) and composed of five ar- ticulations, the first of which is short, the second twice as long, the third curved, and shorter than the first ; the two others are nearly of equal length, the last being terminated by a little black nail. Maxille (lévres) brown, much shorter than the mandibles, (machoires), rounded anteriorily. Labrum (menton) brown, short, rounded at its anterior margin. Thorax black, very con- vex, twice as broad as long, nearly trapezoidal, with its anterior margin sinuated, slightly rounded at the sides, and completely bristled with pretty stiff white hairs; in the middle, and towards the anterior margin, are four smooth, very brilliant eyes, placed ona black projecting tubercle without hair; the two anterior eyes smallest and nearest together. On each side, at the same height, are two other tubercles of the same colour and still more elevated, at the extremity of each of which isa double eye. The legs are velvety, of a testaceous colour, eight in number, each com- posed of five articulations, the last of which is brown, terminated by a bifid hook of the same colour, and so small that it is almost confounded with the hairs that surround it. The first pair of legs 226 M. Vauthier on a new Species of Epeira. is the longest, the second pair next in point of length, the third much shorter, and the fourth pair as long as the second. Abdo- men reddish yellow, triangular, its anterior angle truncated, slightly sinuated and attached to the thorax ; each of the sinuated sides, has, at the posterior part, a small black spine, near which is attached a large rough horn-like process, furnished with blackish hairs, and curved inwards; its colour is brick red at the base, and blackish at the extremity ; the posterior margin of the abdo- men is slightly curved outwards ; above this margin is a strong fold, at the extremities of which, situated in a cavity, are two black tubercular spots ; on two eminences of the same fold, are attached two brown spines longer than those of the lateral parts, and extending beyond the margin. The abdomen is, besides, marginate all round, concave, with a rounded eminence in the middle : it has on the surface, twenty-three shining, black spots, of nearly an oval form, with a projecting margin, and a small raised tubercle in the centre. These spots are disposed as fol- lows: four at the anterior part, three at each side, nine at the pos- terior margin, and four on the eminence in the middle; they very probably may be the stigmata which admit the air in res- piration. The under part of the abdomen is shaded with brown, red and yellow, is plicate, and has a black projecting anus. Explanation of the Figures in Puatr X. Fig. 1. The insect magnified to twice the natural size. Fig.2. Parts of the mouth, viewed at the under side. A. mandi- bles. B. maxillz (/évres). C. labrum (mention). ‘Fig. 3. One of the abdominal processes, very much magnified. Fig. 4. Mandibles, palpi, thorax, feet, and anterior part of the abdomen, highly magnified, viewed at the upper side. A. mandibles. B. palpi. C. tubercles which support the eyes. D. legs. KE. black spots of the abdomen. Fig. 5. Posterior part of the abdomen very much magnified, viewed at the under side, shewing the fold which bears the two spines, and the two black spots, situated in its cavity. A.anus. ~ 3 Say on Isodon Pilorides. 227 Fig. 6. One of the lateral tubercles of the thorax, highly magni- fied, which supports the double eye. Note.—The author having used the term machoire, to signify sometimes maxilla and sometimes mandible, as also the words lévres, when the mavilla, and menton, when the labrum is obviously intended, the preceding alterations in the translation of his paper, are absolutely necessary. Art. XXVIII. Ona Quadruped belonging to the Order Rodentia. By Tuomas Say.* In the valuable collection of the Philadelphia Museum, there is the preserved skin of a mammiferous’ quadruped, exhibiting at first view the appearance of a gigantic rat, somewhat larger than a rabbit, and known in that institution by the name of Jong-tailed Cavy ; a designation founded on the belief of its being either the Chloromys acuchi, or an undescribed analagous species. It was brought to the museum more than twenty years ago, either from South America, or one of the West Indian Islands, and from that period to the present it has been open to the inspection of the curious. More recently a living specimen of the same animal was pre- sented to the museum, which afforded the proprietors an opportu- nity of becoming acquainted with the habits of the species in a state of domestication. I shall, in the first place, state the characters of a new genus, which I have constructed for this animal, and afterwards note its difference from, and correspondence with, other genera, to which it seems allied. Orprr.—_RODENTIA. Genus.—ISODON. Artificial Character. Clavicles perfect; molares sixteen, prismatic, not divided into -radicles ; toes divided. * Extracted from a paper in the Journal of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia ; vol. ii. p. 330. 228 Say on Isodon Pilorides. Natural Character. Clavicles robust, perfect ; incisores not narrowed at tip, but very obtusely rounded ; their transverse section presents a trian~ gular figure, of which the angles are rounded: molares sixteen, the two series in each jaw converge a little towards the front, and consist of four teeth in each series, prismatic, not divided at base into radicles; their crowns flat, and traversed equally from the base to the summit by lamine, which on the summit and base of the tooth terminate precisely alike, in zigzag lines, and are the effect of the sides of the tooth being folded inwards transversely and with but little obliquity ; the inner angles of the folds attain or surpass the centre of the width of the grinding disk, and do not oppose, but pass between the angles of the opposite folds; each molar of the superior jaw has two folds on the exterior and one on the interior side, and of the inferior jaw there are two folds on the interior side, andonly one on the exterior ; the interstices are filled near the summit with a cortical substance, but at the base they are void; the form of the grinding surface of the molares is qua- drate, that of the two intermediate ones of each series particularly ; the anterior molares are a little oblong, those of the inferior jaw terminate before in an angle; the posterior tooth of each series is somewhat rounded behind; fore feet four-toed, with a small tuber- cle instead of a thumb ; hind feet five-toed; the toes are all di- vided, and rest equally onthe soil in walking. Species. 1. Pilorides, colour black, intermixed with testaceous on the top of the head, back, sides, posteriors and outsides of the legs; the hair of these parts being pale cinereous at base, then deep black, then testaceous, the tip black; on the sides, particularly in the region of the shoulders, are a few remote hairs, which are white and somewhat thicker than the others; front, sides, and inferior portion of the head and of the neck, breast and line down the ab- Its Situation in the Order Rodentia. 299 domen, gray ; ears rather small, obtusely rounded at the tip; vé- brisse long, black gray at the base; a few black bristles above the eyes ; eyes moderate; anterior foot with the intermediate toes longest, equal, exterior toe shortest, but nearly equal to the inner one ; thumb tubercle small; posterior feet, with the three inter- mediate toes, subequal; the exterior and interior are rather shorter, and the latter shortest; matls robust, black; ¢aél thick at base, gradually tapering to the tip, imbricated with scales, hair short, sparse, rigid. As this animal exhibits the character of flat crowned teeth, alto- gether destitute of radicles, combined with robust and absolutely perfect clavicles, it is by the latter character at once excluded from Cuvier’s second division of the Rodentia, which comprehends Lepus, Lagomys, and Hystrix, together with the several genera formed on the demolition of the Linneen genus Cavia. Of the two divisions, therefore, into which the Rodentia have been separated, from the consideration of the presence or absence of perfect clavicles, the new genus Isodon unquestionably belongs to the first, and may be grouped with Arvicola, Fiber,* and Geory- chus. It corresponds with the former, in the entire and prismatic form of the teeth. But in these genera each jaw is furnished but with six teeth, which is a smaller number by two than exist in our animal; and as this numerical character is undoubtedly essential, we are justified in regarding it as distinct from either. In nume« rical dentition, however, Isodon agrees with Castor, Bathyergus, and Helamys ; but without resorting to a detail of other discre- pancies, the manner in which the folds of enamel are arranged in its teeth, very sufficiently distinguishes it from either. * Tlliger enumerates four molares to each series in the jaw of Fiber; but, after ample examination, I agree with Daubenton and Cuvier, in asserting, that but three exist, of these, the grinding surface of the anterior one in the lower jaw is as long as the two others taken together, and is divided into nine triangular prisms, of which the anterior and posterior ones extend the whole width of the tooth, whilst the seven other prisms are smaller and alternate; in neither of the other molares, of either jaw, does the number of prisms exceed five. Each of these molares is certainly divided into two parts at base, though it is true these roots are not solid. 230 Mr. Bell on Isodon and Capromys. Art. XXVIII. Note on the supposed Identity of the genus Isodon of Say, with Capromys. By Tuomas Bey, Esq. F.L.S. Soon after the appearance of Mons. Desmarest’s paper on the genus Capromys, in the former number of this Journal, I received a letter from Mr. J. K. Gray, claiming the honour of the first description of that animal, for Mr. Say, the American naturalist, an abstract of whose paper precedes the present article. Mr. Say has given his animal the name of Isodon pilorides, but Mr. Gray very properly observes, that the generic name which Mons. Desmarest has given must be retained, as Isodon had been previously applied to another genus. On a very careful compari- son of the two accounts, I am of opinion that the animals will prove not to be identical as to species, though they very probably belong to the same genus. It unfortunately happens that the description given by Mons. Desmarest, is wholly taken from ex- ternal characters, as his specimens were both living, —whilst, on the other hand, Mr. Say’s account is almost exclusively confined to the anatomical details. The differences however which appear, even from these imperfect descriptions, to exist between the two animals, are sufficient, I think, to warrant the opinion I have given, that they are distinct. The animal named Utia (Cupromys of Desmarest), is called by Bomare, ‘‘ a species of Rabbit of the size of a rat ;” and as this is the account of one who knew the animal in its native country, and speaks of it familiarly, there is no doubt that this is its usual full size. The Isodon pilorides of Say, on the contrary, is stated to be larger than a rabbit, being 19% inches in length from the nose to the insertion of the tail; whilst those in the possession of M. Desmarest were little more than a foot. The general colour of Mr. Say’s animal is black, intermixed with testaceous ; that of Capromys is a greenish-brown., In the details of the different parts of the body there are also considerable discrepancies with regard to colour. If, as Mr. Say assures us, his figure be accurate, MM. Le Sauvage ona new genus of Fossil Polyparia 231. and that of Desmarest equally so, there would no longer be the slightest hesitation in considering them as distinct species. The general form,—the appearance of the hair,—the ears,—the nose, —the feet, &c. are considerably dissimilar; and the tail of Capromys is much more conical than that of the other. It must however be admitted, that until M. Desmarest gives us the anatomical details he has promised, we must remain uncertain as to the identity of these animals, neither of which appears to have been before described.* Art. XXIX. Memoir upon a new genus of Fossil Poly- paria. By M. Lr Sauvaae.t Amone the Fossil Polyparia found in the department of Calvados, for the knowledge of which we are indebted to the researches and labours of Messrs. De Magneville and Lamouroux, there exists a species which has been referred by the latter to the genus Astrea, under the name of Astrea dendroidea, (see Lamouroux, Exposit. Meth.des genres de Vordre des Polypiers, &c. Suppl. p. 85. pl. 78. f. 6.) M. Lamouroux has described this species from an irregular fragment of a few centimetres in height, and yet he has very judiciously observed that it was not encrust- ing, that it formed a mass of the same nature, and that it was distinguished by its form from all the species of the genus to which he referred it. In the Coralloid Limestone of the Falaise of Bénnerville, I have met with a large fragment of this fine ‘Fossil, which is itself only a small portion of a mass several feet * It appears by an article in the “ Bulletin des Sciences” (1823, No.7.) that Mons. Desmarest is himself of opinion, that these two animals are identi- eal; though, from some degree of ambiguity in this passage, it is not quite clear whether he considers them as of the same species, or only as a species of the same genus. + Translated from the Memoires de la Societé d’ Histoire Naturelle de Paris, Vol. i. p. 241. 232 M. Le Sauvage on a new genus of Fossil Polyparia. in height. It was therefore easy for me to observe that it af- forded very decided characters, which = Lamouroux could not observe in the fragment he possessed, ant which separate it from the genus Astrea. This singular production is formed of a considerable bundle of branchy stems from 10 to 15 lines in diameter, simply contiguous, and presenting to view, from one end to the other, regular series of rounded dilatations and circular contractions. ‘The branches are terminated in rounded points of unequal heights, and their entire -surface is covered with lamellar, rounded, contiguous, and almost superficial stelle. If the transverse section of dye of the branches be examined, it will be seen that its interior is formed of nume- rous lamine, with angular spaces between® ‘them, and that they affect the form of a star. The longitudinal section. shows a series of cavities, sometimes regularly proportioned, ‘which seem to indicate that the inside of the branches ee chambered: but these cavities appear to be owing, at least invt'great measure, to a sort of contraction, the result of a confused crystallization of the cal- careous matter which entered originally info its composition. This calcareous matter is of a dull-reddish colour, which forms a con- trast to the whiteness of that which encrusts the mass. Consider- ing the fine preservation of so prodigious a Fossil Coral, we might be led to suppose that it has not undergone any displacement, but that it has been enveloped in the Limestone that surrounds it, in the place where it originally lived. The disposition of its stella, spread over the whole exterior surface, separates it from the order of the Astrea, thus charac- terized by M. Lamouroux: ‘* Etoiles ou cellules circonscrites, placées @ la surface supérieure du Polypier.” ‘This single cir- cumstance would prevent its being retained in the genus Astrea, which is placed in the order of the same name, evenif it were not sufficiently distinguished from the species composing that genus, by its disposition in fasciculated branches. Its natural position is in the order of the Madrepores, thus defined: ‘* Etotles,” ou “¢ cellules circonscrites, répandues sur toutes les surfaces libres du Polypier,” and it should be placed at the head of this order, before the genus Porites, from which it is well distinguished by M.1.G. Saint-Hilaire on an American Bat. 233 the even and rounded form of its stella, this latter having the laminz of its stelle “ filamenteuses, acérées ou cuspidées.” Lam. Anim. sans vert. volsii. p. 267. In consequence of these considerations, I have thought it con- venient to constitute a new genus for this Madrepore, and I pro- pose to give it the appellation of Thamnasteria, which signifies *¢ a bush with close branches covered with stars.” The following are its characters : THAMNASTERIA. Polyparium petrosum, ramosum ; super- ficies ramorum stellis ‘lamellosis, sessilibus, obtecta ; lamellis linearibus, roturdatis. And its specific characters will be Tu. Lamouroucit, fossilis, ramosa, fasciculata, dilatationibus et contractionibus circularibus, alternis ; stellis rotundis, subplanis. * ,* Upon this we have only to observe that the word ramosa ought not to have been given in the specific character, as it was already placed in the generic,—Eb. Art. XXX. Memoir on an American Bat, a new Species belonging to the genus Nyctinomus. By M. IstporE GrorFroy Sarnt-HiILaire.* [Read before the Société d’Histoire Naturelle, at Paris, March 5th, 1824. ] Tuerre exists an opinion regarded as paradoxical by many naturalists, but which to others seems to bear the character of truth, and therefore to be very important, namely, that the ani- mals of one continent belong to it exclusively and are never met with in the other. To appreciate the value of this opinion, ac- curately, we must necessarily make this distinction :—is it meant to be asserted, that animals of either of the two worlds cannot be united as species of the same genus with those of the other, or, is it merely pretended that the animals of the two worlds are specifically different ? * Translated from the Annales des Sciences Naturelles, for April, 1824. Vor, I. Q 934. M.I. G. Saint-Hilaire on an American Bat. The second question is easily answered ; who, in fact, doubts the importance of characters derived from the country they inha- bit, in distinguishing species? How many of our French animals are unknown in the countries nearest to us? How many are found even only in one single province, to the exclusion of all the rest? Where we see Nature varying in this manner, almost from field to field, how can we refuse to take into consideration the boundaries marked out by immense oceans ? The first question presents a substantial difficulty ; perhaps we have not, even yet, sufficient data for its solution ; at least, the consideration of a fact so novel, and contrary to received opinions, as that which forms the object of this paper, would induce me to think so. Buffon remarks * that the animals of one continent are want- ing in the other, and that this holds good for all, those excepted which breed in the northern climates. He explains the exception by the contiguity of the two continents towards the north. This observation, which Buffon applied only to animals con- sidered in regard to species, may be extended also to genera, at least to those of the first families. Buffon, though he did not so express himself in his writings, doubtless was of that opinion, since he was bold enough, though he knew but a few species of Monkeys ef either continent, to trace characters for the whole, founded on the differences which distinguish the American Mon- keys from those of the old world, The discoveries of Naturalists, since Buffon, have confirmed what he advanced, so that his idea, bold and perhaps even rash originally, may now be considered as the fruit of an admirable perception of the relations of ani-. mated beings, and as the work of a genius which outstripped the knowledge of its own day. It is very worthy of remark, and perhaps the fact may be ex- plained by the greater attention which Zoologists have paid to the study of the animals most resembling man, and to the con- sequently more careful formation of the first genera; it is very remarkable, I say, that in proportion as we descend in the scale of beings, the existence of animals common to both worlds be- * Animaux Communs aux deux Continens, t. ix. p. 97, et suiv. A New Species of the Genus Nyctinomus. 235 comes more frequent. Thus of all the genera of Simia, Le- mures, Cheiroptera and Insectivora now known, there is not one, I may venture to affirm, whose existence in both continents is unquestionable. The first instance that we find of this simul- taneous existence in the two worlds, is in the Carnivora, where we come to the Ursi, Feles, &c. Amongst all the families formed of genera, always exclusively confined to one or other of the two continents, one of the most remarkable is that of the Cheiroptera. Formerly, as is well known, zoology included under one common denomination, all the known species of Bat, and it might then be accurately asserted that the genus Vespertilio inhabited every region and every part of the globe. But, when naturalists, guided by more attentive and scientific observations, discovered that the Bats, like the Monkeys, ought to be considered, not as a genus, but asa large family 5 when in short, the numerous species of Bat had been divided into natural genera, it is a curious fact, that all the new genera, pro- perly natural, were found always to belong to only one of the two continents, to the exclusion of the other. At present the genus Vespertilio, is the only one found in both worlds ; but is it a natural genus? must not some subdivision be yet made in it? TI shall not attempt the solution of the question, for it would lead me too far. I shall only observe that many cele- brated zoologists have already proposed new subdivisions of this genus. As to the genera Roussette (Pteropus, Briss.) and Rhinopome, (Rhinopoma), and M. Raflinesque’s genus Alalaphe, ( Atalaphus) which have been said to exist in both worlds, I shall observe that the pretended Roussette of America is, as has been proved, from India, and belongs to the species Pteropus Leschenaultit ; and that the genus Rhinopoma * is not a natural genus, for, al- though the two species that compose it, have some resemblances to each other, they are not such as to unite them into one genus. * The genus Rhinopome was established by my father, who tells me that he intends to separate the species, hitherto called Rhinopome de la Caroline, from Rhinopome microphylle (Vespertilio Micro Phyllus. Schr.) the true type of the genus, and to place it elsewhere. ray Ye 236 M.1. G. Saint-Hilaire on an American Bat, As to the genus Atalaphus, formed of species without any incisors it would be wholly anomalous, since it is a character of the Bat, to have all the three kinds of teeth, and thus never to want the incisors in both jaws at the same time; moreover the two species referred by M. Raffinesque to the genus Atalaphus appear to be Vespertiliones. In point of fact, the Vespertiliones sometimes lose their incisor teeth, as M. Desmarest has observed, and two individuals of that genus, so circumstanced, may, very probably, have been mistaken for new species. The celebrated d’Azzara, and other equally distinguished naturalists, have shewn us, by their own examples, that the most skilful observer is not always secure from similar errors. Thus, up to the present time, whenever the existence of Chei- roptera of the same genus, common to both worlds, has been announced, examination has always shewn that the report of this simultaneous existence had no real foundation, and nature has been found invariable in her rule of not producing Bats, formed on the same type, in both the old and the new world. What Naturalist, seeing this unchanging constancy, will refuse to admit as one of the characters of the family of the Bats, that of being distributed over both worlds, but formed of genera al- ways confined to one or the other exclusively? Certainly no one can be taxed with rashness for drawing so natural an inference, an. inference, however, which, justified by a multitude of pro- babilities, had not been so by a single positive proof, and which, consequently, a single discovery would be sufficient to overthrow. Zoology is indebted to the celebrated traveller, M. Augustus Saint-Hilaire, for the means of verifying this fact, not less impor- tant for the consequences derived from it, than curious and re- markable in itself. This is one of the fruits of that admirable voyage already so important to the progress of Botany, and which might have been equally, or even more so, to the advancement of Zoology, if, as he has done with respect to his botanical labours, M. A. Saint-Hilaire had been himself the historian of his zoo- logical discoveries. This celebrated traveller, as all the world knows, has lately explored Brazil, in which country he found the Bat which is the subject of the present article: I shall give A New Species of the Genus Nyctinomus. 237 a succinct description of it, and shew that it belongs to the genus Nyctinomus, forming a very natural species of that genus, hitherto found only in the old world. The genus Nyctinomus is allied, as is known, to the American genus Molosse, (Dysopes. Ilig.) 'The ears, the tail, the physiog- nomy, the proportions of the most visible parts, are almost the same in both genera; so that, when I first saw the new Bat from Brazil, struck with the circumstance of its being American, I took it, for the moment, for a Molosse ; but soon perceiving that the feet were covered with long hair, the lips deeply wrinkled, and the membranes of the wings bordered with hair, a doubt arose in my mind, which was soon dissipated by examining the teeth; I compared them with those of a Nyctinomus from Bengal, brought from Pondicherry in 1818 by M. Leschenault, and I saw, with surprise, that not only their number, but, with the excep- tion of the lower inscisors, (which are birfurcate to the root, and very much crowded. (érés entasseés) before one another in the Brazilian Bat, rather less so in the Asiatic,) their disposition and form was similar in both. The crania evidently belonged to species nearly allied; the only distinction between them, was that the cranium of the American Bat is a little wider, and not quite so long as that of the Bat from Asia. All these characters leave no doubt that the new Bat must be referred to the genus Nyctinomus, nor that it makes a very na- tural species of that genus; what follows will confirm, I will even dare to assert, rigorously prove this. The most remarkable circumstance connected with the new Bat, being the country it comes from, I shall give it the name of the Nyctinome of Brazil, Nyctinomus Braziliensis. An objection, however, may be started in this place, which though it has little foundation in itself, acquires it by circum- stance; I have spoken of a pretended American Roussette (Pteropus): this Roussette, did indeed come from America; but it had been carried thither from India. It may be asked, was not the new Bat also imported into America? Thanks to the zeal of the celebrated traveller, I am not only well assured, that it is absolutely and originally native in Brazil, but I can even add, 9388 M.1. G. Saint-Hilaire on an American Bat. that it is dispersed over, and by no means rare in that country. In fact, M. A. Saint-Hilaire, has not brought one or two only, but eleven individuals of the species, with the respective localities of each. These important memoranda inform us, that seven of them were found in the missionary provinces, and the four others in the district of Curityba. I may be thought too diffuse on these particulars, and slow in coming to the description of the new species; I must, however, observe that the principal object of my Memoir, is not the dis- covery of a new species of Bat, but rather the discovery of a species of Nyctinomus in America, For the rest, in comparing the Nyctinomus from Brazil with that from Bengal, I have al- ready given part of its characters, [ shall now continue the de- scription, always taking care to remark its principal relations to the other Nyctinomi. I shall take no notice of the labial wrinkles, and the other generic characters of the new Bat; to say that it is a Nyctinomus, is to say that it has them all. I shall only observe that its upper lip, which is notched like that of all the other Nyctinomi, is less deeply so than that of the Nyctinomus of Egypt, (Vespertilio acetabulosus. Herm. Obs. Zool. p.19. Vespertilio plicatus. Bu- chanan) ; for the rest, this is another character common to it and the Nyctinomus of Bengal, to which it is nearly allied by the general assemblage of its relations. ‘The Nyctinomus of Brazil, is, very nearly, of the same size, as the Nyctinomi of Egypt and Bengal. Its total length is very exactly 0°106 m. (4°173 inches, English); the length of its body, is 0-069 m. (2°716 English inches) ; that of the tail, 0-037 m. (1°:456 English inches) ; and its length from the extremity of one wing to that of the other, 0:285 m. (11°22 English inches). The hair, which is rather soft and thick, presents some varie- ties of colour ; its base is always cinereous, with a shade of brown, varying from black-brown to yellow-brown. In general terms, we may say that the Nyctinomus of Brazil, is of a cinereous brown: colour; its tint greyer and less deep towards the abdominal re- gion, rather deeper towards the breast, and still deeper and browner on the back. The hair which covers the internal part of A New Species of the Genus Nyctinomus. 239 the membrane of the wing, is of the same colour as that which covers the abdomen; a very few hairs are observable at the upper portion of the tail, included in the interfemoral membrane, and on the surrounding part of that membrane. I have thought it right to make only one species of all these varieties ; in fact, I find in the same, or in several individuals, the different intermediate shades, between yellow-brown and black-brown ; so that I observe the yellow-brown Bat pass suc- cessively to a deeper tint, then to a still deeper, and ere long to black-brown. ‘These different Bats which I refer to the same species, are moreover perfectly similar in point of size and form. It is well known besides, how much the colour of the Bat’s skin is liable to vary according to its age, sex, the time of year, &c. Omitting their generic characters, the ears are further remark~- able for the folds or transverse wrinkles, which are found, per- haps less strongly marked, in the Nyctinomus of Bengal, but do not exist at allin that from Egypt. The ears of the first two, are somewhat less ample; the tail, of a moderate size, (its length I have’ given already) is surrounded at its upper half, and a little further, by the interfemoral membranes, a very narrow prolonga- tion of which, accompanies it to about a third or fourth part of the lower half. 1 have not found any muscular band (brides ) in this membrane, which is rather larger than that of the Bengal Nyc- tinomus. ‘The membranes of the wings are shaped as in the Asiatic Bat, and most of the Molosses, and have not the singular form which prevails in those of the Nyctinomus of Egypt; they are rather wider in the Brazilian Nyctinomus than in its con- geners, but they are shorter; the humerus is slender and short ; the phalanges pretty long. Such are the principal characters, which connect the new Bra- zilian Bat with the other Nyctinomi; and those which dis- guish it from them. I think that I have sufficiently established, on the one hand, that the bat of M. A. Saint-Hilaire is a true Nyc- tinomus ; on the other that it is a new species of that genus, which has hitherto been formed of bats of the old world exclusively. I have but one observation more to make. JI have been careful, in the description, to point out how much the Nyctinomi of 240 M.1. G. Saint-Hilaire oz an American Bat. Asia and America resemble each other in the form of the teeth and body, the disposition of the wings, and even in size ; it is the same also in regard tocolour ; in a word every thing is so similar in the two, that the figure of one might almost be taken for the figure of the other, and if the two animals were inhabitants of the same region, one would be tempted to unite them in a single species. How remarkable a fact, that all these similitudes and relations should exist between the individuals, and yet the countries which respectively produce them be separated by an almost in- finite tract of ocean! So striking a resemblance in point of form, and such intimate relations existing between animals whose native countries are so widely separated, might almost lead to the conclusion, that lo- cality should be struck out from the list of distinctive characters. I am not however of that opinion. We must not forget, that the truth of the idea, which I have just proved erroneous, seemed demonstrated by the experience of ages, and consequently that the exceptions to the rule are very rare. Difference of country neither can, nor will any longer be a proof of difference of or- ganization, but it can and must always be an indication of it: it can no longer prove it, but it ought always to make us suspect it; ina word, it can no longer command, but it can always counsel, and thus the Naturalist, without blindly following the route it points out, ought carefully to collect its indications, that he may advance with firmer and surer step in the path he has thought fit to pursue. I will not conclude without reminding the Reader, that the establishment of the genus Nyctinomus, forms a part of my father’s numerous labours on the Bats. This cir- cumstance, however indifferent to the public, enhances the value of my début in the science, in my own estimation, since I am per- mitted to consider my present labour as a feeble branch, en- grafted by myself, on the stem produced by my father. Mr. Gray’s Revision of the Equide. 241 Explanation of Plate XI. Fig. 1.—Nyctinomus Braziliensis—back view. Fig, 2.—Its Head—front view. Fig. 3.—Head, seen in profile. Fig. 4.—Side view of the Cranium. Fig. 1, is reduced to two-thirds of the natural size. Figures 2, 3, 4, are of the natural size. Ant. XXXI. A Revision of the Family Equide. By Mr. Joun Epwarp Gray, M.G.S. Having occasion lately to examine most of the species of this fa- mily, and being struck with the confusion that exists in the names of the species, part of which was introduced by Mr. Burchell, in his very interesting travels, 1 have been induced to send youa revision of it. ; The older authors speak of the Horse, Mule, Onager, Ass and Zebra, the last of which, they generally describe as having the body (corpus) striped with black, brown, and white bands, three inches broad, but take no notice of the colour of its legs: but in Jonston’s figure they are distinctly banded. They also de- scribe, and Jonston figures several others, as the Ethiopian Horse, t. 3. which has very large canine teeth, the mane the whole length of the body, and the hoofs divided ; it appears to be a painter’s fancy. 2dly, The Indian Horse, which is banded like the Zebra, but has the mane and tail of a Horse; this is most probably only an erroneous representation of the Zebra; and 3rdly, the Onager with one horn; t. 6. and the Onager with two horns, and divided feet, the latter of which is most probably intended for the Two- horned Rhinoceros drawn from memory, and the former appears to be a fictitious animal altogether. Molina, in his History of China, speaks of the Gnemel or IHuemul, the Equus bisulcus of Gmelin, 242 Mr. Gray’s Revision of the Equide, which, from his description, if it exists, is most probably a species of Lama ( Auchenia.) Edwards, in his Gleanings of Natural History, figured what he considered as the male and female Zebra, the former of which I consider to be the true Zebra, and the latter is perhaps the Quagga; but both the figures have the bands too pale, and indis- tinct , and the latter especially has some spots on the rump, which do not exist in the Quagga, and yet it has not the bands of the Asinus Burchellit. Linneus, in his Systema Nature, described three species, the Horse, Ass, and Zebra, the latter of which he characterized, E. fasciis fuscis versicolor. Referring to the two figures of Edwards, and adding as a description Color albidus seu rufescens, fusciis nigris digitos tres latis per totum corpus transversis, &c., 1 am not able to reconcile these two descriptions, but neither the Zebra nor the new species has the bands purely black, but very deep blackish brown: and Linneus certainly agreed with Edwards, in considering the two, that the latter author figured as sexes. Pallas, in the nineteenth volume of the New Commentaries of the Russian Academy, adds another species, by the name of the Equus Hemionus, which is called Dshikketei by the Tartars, and which Cuvier considers to be the Wild Mule of the ancients. Capt. Gordon sent aspecies of this family, called Quagga, from the Cape to Amsterdam, where it was first described and figured from his drawing in the Dutch edition of Buffon, and afterwards in the Supplement to the French editions, whence it has been de- scribed by most Zoologists. Burchell, in his Travels, has taken notice of a new species, which he has for some reason called E. Sebra, and which he says is confined to the flat parts of Africa, and the old Zebra under the name of E. Montanus, as this species is found only in mountainous parts. Le Vaillant, in his curious Travels, has mentioned another species under the name of L’ane Isabelle, (vol. iii. page — ) which he says is of a plain Isabella colour, without any band ; but nobody since his time, as far as I can learn, has mentioned it: may it not be an albino varicty of the Zebra, or Quagga? as the Equus Caballus. 245 Ass is sometimes found of yellowish white, without any cross, in its domesticated state. Mr. Cross informs me, that a year or two ago, a specimen said to be of this species was brought to this coun- try. This family (which is distinguished from all other animals by its undivided hoof, formed of the two anterior toes, soldered to- gether, its simple stomach, and its female having the teat placed on the pubes,*) may be divided into two very distinct types of form ; the one the Asses and Zebras, which are always whitish and more or less banded with blackish brown, and always have a distinct dorsal line, the tail only bristly at the end, and have warts only on the arms, and none on the hind legs; and the true Horses, which are not banded, have no dorsal line, are furnished with warts + on their arms and legs, and have long hair on the tail, from its insertion to its extremity. Fanily Equipe. Solidungule. Antiquorum, Cuvier, &c. Genus. Equus Lin. ° 6 ae 1-1 6-6 Dentes Incisores, gq canini (mares) — molares 66 — 10- 11 Pedes ungula indivisa. Genus I. Equus. The Horse. Cauda undique vetosa, linea dorsali nulla, verrucis brachiorum pedumque distinctis. 1. E. Caballus, the Common Horse. K. infasciatus. Equus Caballus. Lin. Syst. Nat. j. 100. Equus Antiquorum. Gesner, Quad. 132. j Cheval. Buff. Hist. iv. 1. Horse. Bewick, Quad. p. 1. Generous Horse. Pennant. * Linneus observes that mares mammas non habent, which is not the fact, for he ought tohave said mares mammas prepuciales habent. + These were formerly used in medicine, and were enumerated with the drugs in the London Pharmacopeeia till 1745, under the name of Verruce pedum Equinorum.—See Gray’s Pharmacology, edit. 3. p. 161. 244 Mr. Gray’s Revision of the Equida, Icon. Jonston, Quad. t.1,2,3,4. Buffoniv. t.1. Shaw, Sool. ii. t. 214, 215. Bewick, Quad. p. 1. B. Syloestris. Wilde Pferde. J. G. Gmelin H, j. 221. ii. 510. Takija, or Wild Horses. Bell Trav. j. 225. Inhabits Tartary, but has been transported by Man to most of the other parts of the world, both of the old and new continent. Mus. Brit. This species has very numerous varieties which are interesting to study, but very difficult to characterize, and Mr. Huzard is at present illustrating them with lithographic plates. Genus II. Asinus. Cauda apice setosd, lined dorsali distincta, ornata, verrucis brachiorum distinctis, pedum nullis. Sp. 1. Asinus Hemionus. The Dshikketei (Zikketei.) A. fulvo-fuscus, juba, cauda, linea dorsalique nigris. Equus Hemionus. Pallas, Nov. Comm. Petrop. xix, 394. Equus Hemiones. Bodd. Hemionos. Plin. Hist. Nat. viii. c. 44. Dshikketei. Pennant, Quad. 4.2. Yototse. Chinese. Dzi- githai. Buff. Sup. vi. p. 37. L’Dziggetai. Cuv. Regn. Anim. j. 244. L’Hemione. Ency. Method. Wild Mule, Half Ass or Fecund Mule. Pennant, Quad. Jickta. Shaw, ii. 427. Icon. Pallas. Nov. Comm. |. c.t.7. Neue Nord. Betyr. ii. t.1. Ency. Method. t. 43. f. 4. copied. Inhabits the Desert of Mangol, on the borders of China and Thibet. Padlas. Description. Shape of the Mule, head and ears large; fur Isa- bella yellow, mane, tail,and dorsal line black, the hair of the win- ter coat very long; of the summer, short. Sp. 2. Asinus vulgaris. The Ass. A. cinereus, linea dorsali et transversali scapularum nigris. Equus asinus, Lin. Sys. Nat. j. 101. Equus asina, Fleming, Phil. Zool. ii. Asinus vulgaris. 245 Asinus G'esn. Quad. 40. Ass. Bewick, Quad.19. L’Ane Buff. Hist. Nat. iv. xi. Icon. Jonston, Quad. t.6. Buffon, iv. t.11. Ency. Method. t.14.f. 1,2. 8. Sylvestris. Major, auriculis brevioribus erectis. Onager, Wild Ass, antiquorum. Ray, Quad. 6. 3. Onagus. Gesn. Quad. 19. Equus Onager. Bris. Reg. Anim. 104. Wild Ass. Bell, Trav. j.212. Koulan, or Wild Ass. Pen- nant Quad. y- Albida. Al\bida, non fasciata. 1. Mulus. ex Equa et Asino. Mule. Bewick Quad. 16. Mulus. Ray, Quad. 64. Icon. Jonston, Quad. t.6. Ency. Method. t. 44, f. 3. 2. Hinnus. ex Asina et Equo. Hinnus. Ray, Quad. 64. 3. Fasciata. ex Zebra et Asino. InhabitsTartary, in the wild state; but man has domesticated it to most parts of the world. Description. Head and ears long. Fur gray, lower part whitish, witha black dorsal line, and a band across the scapulz, end of the ears black. The wild Asses, or Onagers, are larger, and the ears are shorter than the domestic variety, which varies in size and form according to the climate ; the white variety is an albino, as the eyes are red. Their voice is called braying. The hybrid bred between the male Ass, and a mare is called a Mule ; it has more the general form and size of the mare, with the large head, long ears, and nearly naked tail of the Ass. That bred between the Horse and the Ass is called a Hinny; this animal is generally of a smaller size than the Mule, and has a smaller head, shorter ears, and more hairy tail, but its form is like that of the Ass. Thirdly, that be- tween the Zebra and a male Ass, is called the Ribbon-legged Ass ; it is grayish, with black bands on the outer face of the legs, and hasa black line across the shoulders, with the form of the Ass: all these varieties are barren, according to the accounts of authors. 246 Mr. Gray’s Revision of the Equide, Sp. 3. Asinus Quagga. The Quagga. A.capite, nucha, scapulisque nigris albido-fasciatis, dorso fusces- cente subfasciato, linea dorsali nigra albido-marginata, cauda artu- busque albidis. Equus Quagga. Gmelin. Le Cougga. Cuvier. Reg. Anim. 245. Zebra femina, &c. Edw, Gilean. j. 29? Opeagha, or Quagga, of the Hottentots. Masson. Trav. Phil. Trans. \xvi. 297. Quacha. Pen. Quad.14. Female Zebra. Edw. Glean. j- 292 Le Couagga. G. Cuvier, Menag. Icon. Edw. Glean. t. 223? bands too distinct, and no marks on the rump. Shaw. Sool. t.218 ? copied Edw. G. Cuvier, Menag. t.— Ency. Method. Suppl. t. 13.f.1. EF. Cuvier. Menag. t. — 1. Junior. KE, capite, et nucha, fuscis albido-fasciatis, corpore su- perne fusco, linea dorsali brunea notato, ventre artubusque albidis, ungulis nigris, supra annullis fuscis notatis. Kwagga or Couagga. Buff. Suppl. vi. p. 85. Icon. Buffon Suppl. vi. t. 7. Inhabits Africa, near the Cape of Good Hope, v. v. Mus. Cross. 1. Mus. Brit. Less than the Zebra, with the hinder parts higher, and the ears shorter. Fur of the head, neck, mane, and shoulders, blackish brown, banded with white, the ground colour gradually becoming paler, and the bands less distinct, and diffused as we proceed along the back till it is greyish on the rump; the dorsal line is black, margined on each side with a white line. Belly, tail, and legs white; ears with two irregular black bands and white tip. The young is pale brown, with the mane, a few scattered spots, and the dorsal line of a deeper colour, the latter of which is slightly extended down the tail. The belly and legs whitish grey, with a dark ring just above the hoof. The forehead, cheeks, neck, and mane marked with narrow transverse whitish bands, which are visible in peculiar positions on the back also, This animal lives in troops, never intermixing with the Zebras, According to Capt. Gordon, they are used by the natives for the purpose of draught ; but as Buffon very justly observes, it is cu- Asinus Burchellii. DAT rious that he could only get a young specimen. The specimen at Exeter Change is not very docile, being much more wild than the Zebra ; its name is derived from its voice, which resembles. the barking of a dog. When the skin of the animal, which I consider to be, and which agrees with Buffon’s figure of the young of, this species (except in having the brown ring above the hoof) was shown to Professsor Temminck by Mr. Children, he declared it to be the Ane Isabelle of Vaillant; but with all due respect to the knowledge of that naturalist, who so greatly excels in the knowledge of species, [am sorry that I cannot accord with him in this instance; although I must allow that he ought to know Vaillant’s animals better than any other person, as that celebrated traveller was a constant cor- respondent of his; if it be that animal, Vaillant must have over- looked the bands, and I can hardly call it Isabella colour. Sp. 3. Asinus Burchellit. Burchell’s Zebra. A. Albidus, nucha dorsoque fasciis alternis nigris et fuscis, nigris latioribus, linea dorsali nigra albido-marginatis ; ventre, cauda, artubusque infasciatis. Equus Zebra. Male. fF. Cuvier. Menag. Mus. Equus Zebra. Burchel. Trav. j. 139. Icon. Tab. 6. Burchel. Trav. Vig. p. 252, a tanning vat of the skin. Inhabits Africa, The flat parts near the Cape, Burchell. Mus. Brit: VM. Description.— Body white; head with numerous narrow brown stripes, which gradually unite together and form a bay nose; the neck and body with alternate broad stripes of black and narrow ones of brown, the latter of which nearly fill up the interspaces hetween the black stripes, and only leave a narrow whitish margin. The dorsal line is narrow, and becomes gradually broader in the hinder part, distinctly margined with white on each side. The belly, legs, and tail, quite white; the mane alternately banded with blackish and white. The figure of this animal, Plate IX. fig. 1. is from the skin in the British Museum, which was brought home by Mr. Burchell, and which will shortly be set up and exposed to public view. 248 Mr. Gray’s Revision of the Equide, The hoofs, as Mr. Burchell very justly observes, offer a good character between the Zebra of the Mountains and that of the Plains. In the latter, 4. Burchellii, the edge of the hoof is narrow and sharp, the hinder partis flattish, and the centre isextended and concave: and in the former, or true Zebra, the edge and hinder part are thick and convex, and the centre deep and contracted.— See pl. ix. f. 3, A. Zebra: f. 2, A. Burchellii; both being dimi- nished to one-half the natural size. Sp. 4. Asinus Sebra. The Zebra. A. albidus, capite corpore artubusque nigro-fasciatis, ventre albido, linea media nigra serrata, linea dorsali indistincta. Equus Zebra. Lin. Sys. Nat.j. 101. . Equus Brasiliensis. Jacob. Mus. Reg. 3. Equus Montanus. Burchel. Trav. j. 139. Hippotigre. Dion. Lib. 77. Zebra Indica. Aldrov.; Jonston. Quad. Zebra. Ray. Quad. 69. Zeura, or Zuora, Lobo. Abys. j- 291. Wild Ass. Kobben. Cape. ii. 112. Wild Paard. Burchell. Dauro. Hottentots. Zebre. Buffon. Hist. xii. 1. Icon. Jonston. Quad. t, 5. f.1. bad. Jacob. Mus. Reg. 3. t.2.f.1. Laver. Mus. Reg. t.3.f.18. Buffon. xii. t..12! very good. G. Cuvier. Menag. t.—! Edward. Glean, j. i. t. 222. bad; bands too red. Shaw. Sool. t. 217. cop. Edw. Bewick. 22. very good. Inhabits Africa. Mountainous parts of the Cape of Good Hope, Burchell. ‘* Congo, Guinea, and Abyssinia,” Ludolpe.” Description.—Fur white, with close narrowish black bands on the body, neck, and legs, and brown ones on the face; nose bay; dorsal line indistinct from the others. Belly and inside of the thighs bandless. ‘Fail blackish. Mane erect, thick, bushy, banded with white. ars, with two black bands and white tips. Live in troops, on hard dry herbs, and are not capable of being tamed unless they are taken very young. ‘The beautiful female that is in Exeter Change appears to be vicious, for she is fond of being taken notice of, but gradually sidles round, and attempts to kick at her fondler. Professor Fischer on three New Species of Lethrus. 249 Art. XXXII. Descriptions of three New Species of Lethrus. By Professor Fiscuer.* 1. Lethrus seoparius, niger, supra scabriusculus, infra villosus, tibiis anticis scopatis. Long. 81 lin: lat. 5. lin. Lethrus scoparius, Fischer, lett. a Pander, p. 11. Of the same size as Lethrus cephalotes, from which it differs in the scabrosity and villosity of the body; and‘in the auricles or wings of the head being larger and rather square. Head large like that of cephalotes, but rougher; clypeus with two longitudi- nal tubercles, apex reflected, auricles wider, rather square. La- brum and Mandibule hairy. Thorax rough with impressed dots, sides hairy, reflected. Scutellum broad at the base, triangular, rough with impressed dots. Elytra rough with dots, hairy. Body beneath hairy, feet very villose, legs distinctly toothed on the out- side, hairy on the inside, hairs collected into a little brush near the apex. Inhabits the Southern steppes of Orenbourg. Pander. 2. Lethrus longimanus, nigrescenti-violaceus, nitidus, scabriuscu- lus, tibiis anticis longis, totis dentatis. Long. 54 lin. lat. Alin. Lethrus longimanus, Fischer, Lettre a Pander, p. 12. Coleopt. i 1Ss3. 3. Smaller than Leth. cephalotes, from which it differs in all re- spects. Head rough, with a frontal impression of confluent dots, auricles or lateral wings much dilated. Thorax rough with im- pressed dots, margins reflected on'both sides. Scutellum short, triangular, grooved. Elytra joined together, much narrower than the thorax, and rather longer, rough, with several slightly im- pressed lines. Body somewhat villous beneath, the anterior feet smoother, the legs very long, compared with the thorax as 3 4 * Translated from his Entomographia Imperii Russici. tom. 1. p. 136, et seo. Vor. I. R 250 Mr. Gray on new Helicine. lines to 1 4 lines ; all distinctly sex-dentate, with three spines at their apices. Posterior legs very spinose and hairy, Inhabits the Southern steppes of Orenbourg. 3. Lethrus Podolicus ; totus niger, thorace levi, elytris rugosulis. Long. 6 lin. lat. 4 lin. Lethrus cephalotes, var. minor, Besser in literis. Rather larger than the preceding, but as it appears to me distinct from L. cephalotes. Head with a broad rather square clypeus, porous ; the mandibles marginated on the outside, beneath with a strong, rather incurved, abbreviated tooth. The auricles seem to form a single appendage. Antenne proportionably longer and thicker than in L. cephalotes. Thorax smooth as in that species, but more reflected on both sides and behind. Scutellum very nar- row, acuminated. Elytra rather rough, with impressed obliterated lines. Body beneath somewhat porous, feet pruinose, anterior legs serrated, smooth, with bristles, and one spine at the apex. Inhabits Western Podolia. Art. XXXIII. A Description of Two new Species of — Helicine, and Explanation of the Figures to the Mono- graph. By Mr. J. E. Gray, M.G.S. Havine observed two new species of this genus on my late visit, in company with my friend Mr. Children, to the superb collection of the late Lord Tankerville, I have sent you a description, which I took at the time, to render my Monograph more complete, hoping in a short time to be able to give figures of them; to which I have added an explanation of the figures of the other paper. 1*. Helicina Tankerovillii. Testa subgloboso-conoidea, acuté carinata, spiraliter squamu- losa costo-striata, supra conica, infra convexa; peristomate reflexo aibido, tabio medio sinuato, columella subincrassata. 3 Explanation of the Figures. 251 Inbabits ? Mus. Tankerville. Shell nearly globose conical, white, with spiral rib stria, which are crossed with slight concentric striz leaving scales on the spiral ones, conical above, convex beneath, centre keeled, keel acute squamulose. Peristome reflexed white, witha slight groove oppo- site the keel, columella scarcely thickened, angular in front ; axis $, diameter & of an inch. 3*. Helicina Maugérie. Testa depresso-ovata, carinata, albida, lutea unifasciata, supra in- fraque conica convexa; peristomate subreflexo luteo, columella callosa lutea. Inhabits. ? Mus. Tankerville. Shell depressed ovate, keeled, white, with a broad band near the central keel, leaving a white band near the suture, peristome slightly reflexed, pale yellow, columella callous, gibbous, amber earn Oe 1 : yellow; axis 3, diameter $ of an inch. ~ T. vi. f. 1. Helicina pulchella. a 2: —- neritella, and operculum. ioe - fasciata. » 4, ———- substriata. 5. ———- Braziliensis. * 6. ———- costata. . 7, ———- viridis. - §. ———- aurantia. + 9, ——-—-- rhodostoma. - 10, ——-—- major. - 11. ———- submarginata. - 12, ——-—- unifasciata. + 13. ——-—- Brownii, and operculum. * 14. - depressa. « 15, ————-. aureola. 252 Mr. J.D.C. Sowerby ona remarkable Fossil Bone. Ant. XXXIV. Description of a remarkable Fossil found in Coal Shale: with Observations. By J.D. C. SowrErsy, Esq. F.L.S. Tus fossil is of a lanceolate form and very slightly curved ; beneath, it has a deep longitudinal canai with rounded edges, to- wards one of which the curvature is inclined ; above, it is very convex, from the edges of the canal a number of sharp ridges pass obliquely over the surface, until they meet atacute angles directed towards the point, in the middle of the opposite side; for some dis- tance on each side of the part where they meet these ridges are divided into small short spines. ‘The larger end of the fossil tapers almost to a point, and for a considerable distance along it is desti- tute of those ridges that are connected together and forma coat upon the remaining portion. Internally it contains numerous, ir- regular, elongated, sinuose innosculating cavities, divided from each other by a compact substance which is rather browner than the shale, the cavities are filled with carbonate of lime ofa dirty white colour; the ribbed coat is solid. The specimen above described was communicated by Mr. Taylor of Bishops Wearmouth ; it was found among a multitude of vege- table remains, in Shale, containing rather an unusual quantity of Mica, in Felling Colliery. Suspicions have been entertained that this fossil is a seed-pod, or a shell resembling a Pinna ; its internal structure however, suf- ficiently proves that it is neither a végetable nor a shell; and as this structure corresponds to that of the fossil bones found in the Lias, there can hardly remain a doubt as to its real nature; the only difficulty is to ascertain its situation in the skeleton, and the Genus of animals to which it may be referred with some pro- bability. Judging from the size and number of the cells that composed it, it appears to have been very light when recent, and therefore be- longed in all likelihood to a Bird, or to an Aquatic Animal, but most probably to a Fish. Observing that a portion of it is destitute Mr. Gray on Melania Setosa. 253 of the ribbed coat, and resembles the inserted portion of the first spiniform ray of the dorsal fin of the Squalus Acanthias (Spinaz Cuvier), of Balistes, and of several other Fishes, we may conclude, I think safely, that if it be not really such a bone, it is at all events a partially exserted one, and such as we are not likely to meet with, either among the Mammalia, or in any other class, ex- cept Fishes. There is a somewhat similar lanceolate, arcuated, three-sided, and longitudinally ribbed bone, well known in the Lias, which has one and sometimes two rows of conical, curved teeth arranged along its concave side ; this seems to connect the one before us with the long bony and toothed spine upon the tail of the Sting-Ray (Raia Pastinaca, Linn.) and, like that, is much more solid than Fishes’ bones generally are ; but as no attached bones have been yet discovered with these fossils, it is not possible to refer either of them to any known Genus, The circumstance of that before us having occurred in the Coal Formation, is extraordinary ; its accompanying apparently land vegetables can have very little weight, for Bivalve Shells are by no means rare, similarly situated in the Carboniferous Strata. The lateral curvature, and some irregularity in its form, seem to have arisen from distortion produced by pressure. The accompanying figure, Plate VIII. f. 9 is of the full size of the specimen, a small portion of the larger end only being omitted. Art. XXXV. On the structure of Melania setosa. By Mr. J. E. Gray, M.G.S. In the last number of the Quarterly Journal of Science, Mr. Swain- son, has described a new shell, under the above name, which he observes has attracted considerable attention in the Conchological world, from the peculiar bristles-like processes, which are sheathed in its tubular spines; and Mr. Swainson has not a little added to this attraction, by his description of the shell, in which he ob- 54 Mr. Gray on Melania Setosa. serves, after some fanciful conjectures respecting the use of these bristles, that they are, ‘‘a formation altogether unprecedented amongst this class of animals,” and he appears to conceive that these bristles are ‘* rooted as it were into the body of the shell;’ and he is not certain whether there are two, or one, forked in each tubular spine, Now it happens that there are two specimens of this * new and most extraordinary” Shell in the British Museum, one of which was in the Cracherode Collection, n. 472, and named by Humphreys ‘¢ Snirilla spinosa, fresh water spiral spined shell, from Admiralty Island, New Guinea,” and another presented by Dr. Leach; both have to my knowledge been exposed to public view for upwards of three years, and I am very much inclined to believe that the Buc- cinum aculeatum of Lister’s Mantissa, t. 1055. f. 8. is intended for this shell; but from the name of Humphreys, I some time ago named the specimen in the Museum Melania spinosa. On examining these shells, which only differ from the Melania umarula in the sinus of the hinder (or upper of Mr. S.) part of the cuter lip instead of being left an open vaulted spine as in that species, in this shell is closed into a tubular one with the Perios- traca drawn in and inclosed in the tube, the processes of which form these bristles ; Mr. S. remarks, that “in the genus Voluta we have many instances of shells being crowned with thin vaulted spines ; but no examples can be produced of such coronated spines being tubular or completely closed on their circumference, and pervious at their summits:’” this is all very true with regard to Voluta, but is that the only genus in which we are to look for an analagous structure? Ifthe common Neritina corona be examined, which is a much more analagous shell, the spines will be found to be tubular, and longer than in this Melania ; nor are the tubular spines confined to fresh-water species, for they are common to Murex tubifer, M. Triplex, and several other Murices ; and to the Pinne and Pectines in bivalve shells. In the figures of this Shell, (P1. VIII. f. 6, 7, 8.) the manner in which the periostraca is gradually condensed on the side of the sinus, and produced into the spine, is attempted to be illustrated ; ihe bristles are generally distinct from one another, but are some- Mr. G. B. Sowerby on Scissurella. 255 times very closely connected at their base, and indeed one or both of them are sometimes split into two parts ; the base of the tube at length becomes closed by the deposition of shelly matter on the inside, and thus they do not become inbedded ; I may conclude therefore that this shell does not exhibit any anomalous formation, but is constructed on the same general rules as all other shells are. Art. XXXVI. Abstract of a Monograph on a new Genus of Gasteropodous Mollusca, named Scissurella. By M. Aucipe Dessauines D’Orsiany;* with Notes by G. B. Sowrensy, F.L.S. In prosecuting my researches among the marine and fossil sands of various countries, in order to study the microscopic Cephalopoda which are found in them, I have discovered the elegant minute shells described in this memoir. The slit by which they are cha- racterized is analagous to that of several of the Pleurotome among the Muricide ; to that of the Emarginule among the Scutibran- chia; and to that of the Siliquaria among the Annelidw :+ in fact * Translated from the first volume of the Memoires de la Société d’ Histoire Naturelle de Paris, p. 340. + Ihave not thought it necessary to translate the note extracttd from the report of Messrs. Prevost, Desnoyers, and De Ferussac, in which they endeavour to show that the Genus now denominated Scissurella by D’Orbigny, has been formerly published under the name of Pleurotomaria, given to it by De France, and adopted by De Ferussac, because J am of opinion that those Naturalists, as well as M. D’Orbigny are really mistaken: the following are my reasons: Ist, that in all the specimens but one, of D’Orbigny’s genus, that I have seen, amounting to about a dozen, the slit does not continue to the edge of the shell ; but as in Haliotis and Fissurella (the only shells that possess the slightest ana- logy) itforms a more or less elongated perforation, in the upper part of the last volution, while the continvation of the lip is entire: 2ndly, that as in this cir- cumstance it differs materially from Pleurotomaria, it should constitute a new Genus: 3dly, that consequently its nearestanalogy, contrary to M. D’Orbigny’s assertion, is with the Fissurelle and Haliotides: 4thly, that it cannot therefore belong to the family of Trochoida. Considering the great diversity of character that exists between the very young aud the full grown shells of the same spe- cies, and also considering that the shells in question are very minute, though we 256 M.M. D’Orbigny & G. B. Sowerby on Scissurella. the Scissurella fills up among the T’rochoide, a chasm in the series of conformations, observed in the aperture of the Shells of different families of the Mollusca and Annelide. The slit, which is the principal character, and from which the genus is named, positively indicates a peculiar organization in the animal which inhabits it, and has appeared to me of sufficient importance to authorize the formation of a new genus ; the following are its characters. ScissuRELLA. Testa univalvis, libera, umbilicata, spira depressa, apertura subrotundata, labiis disjunctis, canali peristomateque nul- lis: margine dextro labii superné profunde emarginato ; emargina- tione incrementum anfractuum secuta, fere usque ad marginem aperture obliterata, et carinam in dorsum teste notante. Shell univalve, free, umbilicated, with a depressed spire, aper- ture rather rounded, without a canal, its lips without a peristome and disjoined: right lip notched with a deep slit, following the growth of the volutions, obliterated to within a short distance of the margin, and forming a sort of keel upon the back of the shell.* Species 1. Scissurella levigata, testa ovali, levi, alba, translucente, tenui, fragili, apice depresso, anfractibus tribus, lineis incrementi tantum notatis. shall not be justified in pronouncing sucha judgment until an actual acquain= tance with the appearance of those genera as they emerge from the egg, shall enable us to do so with precision, yet we need not hesitate to suggest the pos- sibility, of the Scissurella proving to be either an Haliotis or a Fissurella just emerged from the egg ? * Supposing from the fact I have before stated, that the slit or notch men- tioned in this character only retains that form while the shell is quite young, and that asit arrives at its more mature age the margin becomes entire, I should propose the following as an alteration of the character of the genus; ‘* prope marginem dextram foramine oblongo, incrementum anfractuum secuto, et carinam an dorsum teste notante.”’ ** An oblong foramen near the right lip, following the growth of the volutions, and forming a sort of keel upon the back of the shell. I think also that the words ‘* peristomate acuto”’ should be added to the charac- ter of the genus, as it will be observed that the edge of the peristome is de- scribed as sharp in every species. Scissurella leevigata, costata, and decussata, 257 Found on the Coasts of the Mediterranean, among the Fuci and Ceramia, where it is veryrare. Length two millim. Shell oval, smooth, white, translucent, thin, fragile, apex de- pressed, volutions marked only by the lines of growth, without the ribs or grooves which characterize the three following species. The space between the two edges of the obliterated part of the slit, (each of which edges forms aridge) is smooth, without trans- verse lines, and obliterated to within a short distance of the edge of the aperture, the umbilicus has several very fine circular striz ; the aperture is oval, longer than it is broad; peristome sharp- edged. SPECIES 2. Scissurella costata, testa ovali, alba, translucente, fragili, apice depresso, anfractibus tribus, superné costis transversis, elevatis, distantibus ; infra costis prominentioribus, feré acutis. Found in the same situations as the last. Length one millim. Shell oval, white, translucent, fragile ; apex depressed, volu- tions three, the upper part furnished with transverse, elevated, dis- tant ribs ; ribs beneath more prominent, and almost sharp-edged. The intercostal spaces are nearly smooth. The two edges of the slit form two ridges, the interval of which, in the obliterated part, is strongly marked with close transverse lines; umbilicus sur- rounded by circular striz ; aperture nearly quadrangular ; peris- tome sharp-edged. Species 3. Scissurella decussata, testa ovali, tenui, fragili, decussata ; apice depresso; anfractibus tribus, costis supra et infra, transversis, nu- merosis. Found in the Fossil sand of Castel-Arquato in Piacenza. Length one millim. . Shell oval, thin, brittle, decussated, apex depressed, volutions three, marked above and below with numerous transverse ribs or salient grooves, the intercostal spaces have close-set, deep, longi- tudinal stria ; the space comprised between the two raised edges of the slit is marked, in its obliterated part, by broad, distant grooves. . 258 Mr. G. B. Sowerby on Mulleria. SpPEciEs 4. Scissurella elegans, testa ovali, ventricosd, spira papilliformi, elevatiusculd ; anfractibus quatuor, costis transversis, minus pro- minentibus, distantibus, longitudinaliter striatis.* Found with the last. These two species are very rarely entire, on account of their extreme brittleness, Length two millim. Shell oval, ventricose, fragile, spire nipple-shaped, less de- pressed than in the other species; volutions four, with transverse slightly salient ribs, distant from each other, and each marked with superficial longitudinal strie, which give the shell a finely decussated appearance: the space between the two edges of the obliterated part of the slit is smooth, and narrower in this than in the preceding species: around the umbilicus is seen a smooth - space, instead of the circular lines remarkable in the first three species : the aperture is rounded, and the peristome sharp-edged.t Art. XXXVII. MULLERIA, a new Genus of Fresh- water Bivalves, of the Family of Ostreacee, established by M, Ls Baron p’AUDEBARD DE FERUsSAc. We do not intend here to give the characters of this genus, because we reserve most of the particulars relating to it for an opportunity, which will shortly occur, of illustrating them by a plate: we only wish at present to notice the addition of a genus * | have been obliged to alter some of the expressions used by the author, because in his description of this species he has used several terms of compari~ son with the other species; thus I have used ‘ elevatiuscula,’”’ instead of ** moins deprimé que celui des autres éspéces.” + The shortness of the time now before us, renders it impossible to add the description of one or two other species which I possess: these | propose giving in the next number; together with the descriptions of several other curious little fossils found in the Fossil Sand of the neighbourhood of Paris, and some further observations upon the Scissurelle. Analytical Notices of Books. 259 of river shells of the Family of Ostreacee to the catalogue of those already known as inhabitants of fresh-water. If to the Families of Cyclade and Naiade, or bivalve shells belonging exclusively to rivers and lakes, be added two genera of Mytilide, (Mytilus and Modiola) ; one genus of Corbulide, (not yet named ; one genus of Chamacee, (Etheria) ; one of Mactride, (Nucula) ; and one genus of Ostreacew, (Mulleria) ; a catalogue will be formed of all the Genera of Bivalve Mollusca, hitherto known to inhabit fresh-water. Does not this prove the absolute necessity of Geologists becoming thoroughly acquainted with at least all the Genera of Shetls, before they undertake to determine the nature of any formation containing fossil remains of Shells ? Is it not a fact that will help to establish the truth of some obser- vations I formerly made upon the real nature of a bed, said by Geologists to be marine, and which is interposed between two. others of undoubted fresh-water origin? Does it not, in fact, prove that we are yet in the infancy of our knowledge of the Natural Sciences, particulary as it respects Geology? G. B.S. Art. XXXVI. Analytical Notices of Books. Monographia Tenthredinetarum, Synonimia extricata. Auc- tore Am le Peletier de Saint-Fargeau, Societalis Pari- .stensis Historie Naturalis Membro. 8vo. Paris, 1823. p-p. 176. We can never hope to be thoroughly acquainted with the Species of Insects but through the medium of Monographs, and we do most sincerely wish that Entomologists would keep this in view; but we must beg to observe, that merely collecting the Scattered descriptions of the Insects composing a group or family, can never be deserving the name of a Monograph, nor will much credit ever be attached to him, who is a mere compiler, especially 260 Analytical Notices of Books. in Natural History, for it is solely from this very cause, that so much confusion has arisen in every branch of Zoology. It is the duty of him who attempts a Monograph on any genus, or family of animals, to collect all the former descriptions, to compare such with the individuals, to describe the new species, and to digest the whole. We know the loss of time and the difficulty of the task ; but it is of importance, if we would wish to render such a work useful to the scientific; and it must be considered of importance, for the nature of a Monograph, ought to be to determine and ascertain the history of the individuals to a certain date, to do which we consider that every cabinet ought to be examined. How far M. de Fargeau has had this in view, is not in our power to say, but we cannot help thinking, that his researches in this respect have been limited, and his materials rather scanty ; for in very many in- stances, his descriptions appear to have been taken solely from the works of Fabricius, Klug, Leach and Latreille : no one can have a greater respect for those very justly celebrated Entomologists than ourselves, and no one can find fault with their descriptions in general; but so few additional species, comparatively, occur in the work before us, and so little light is thrown on their history, that we cannot but remark, that our author would have done well to have sought further. It is not the cabinets of Eng- land, France or Germany, individually, that will ever afford the materials for a perfect Monograph ; there are many very valuable and very extensive collections in each country, and without a thorough knowledge of the contents of each, every attempt must be fruitless ; there are few Entomologists who have not observed, in almost every cabinet, should it consist of provincial insects alone, species that are new, or but imperfectly described: be- sides this, how many are continually being received from the Brazils, India, New Holland, &c. We do not wish by these observations to throw the least obstacle in the way, or to depress the ardour of the industrious Entomologist ; but in his movements he must be cautious ere he presents the world witha feeble Essay, and gives it a name of a Monograph, It is highly praiseworthy in any one who will attempt to illustrate this very interesting branch of Zoology ; but in our present limited knowledge of this subject, ° — Monographia Tenthredinetarum. 261 unless the means and opportunities of its author be very extensive, he had better content himself, (if he has Science at heart,) to de- scribe those species which may appear new; by which means he is gradually advancing the science, and his labours will be duly appreciated by every lover of Natural History. How many Monographs have issued from the press, when in the course of a very short time, the number of the species has been nearly doubled! nothing can convince us more of the futility of attempting such a work, without years of labour and patient inves- tigation. Did the illustrious author of Monographia Apium Ang- lie, collect the materials and the observations of his invaluable work in a few months? No, it was the work of years of assiduous labour and minute observation!; by which means he obtained those valuable facts, which nothing but time and intense applica- tion could ever have enabled him to possess We wish to see a few more such works ; for we consider, that if Entomologists, in- stead of accumulating and forming extensive collections, and vying with each other in the number of their species, would limit them- selves in some measure, and pay a little more attention to the economy of certain Families, we should hope that in a few years much good would result, and that we might anticipate that deve- lopement of the delightful system of Nature, and that view of the distribution of its creatures, which it is only by patient investiga- tion that we may ever hope to attain. Systematic works on Entomology will but seldom bear quota- tion; we shall therefore merely give an outline of the Synopsis of the Genera, with the number of species described under each; which we consider will be as much as can be required from a work of this nature. TENTHREDINET.E. A. Antenne articulis pluribus quam decem. I. Cellule radiales, 3; cubitales, 3. Antenne setacex. Ovidepositorium abdomen multim superans. Divisio, @ xyELA, Dalmann, contains 2 species. II. Cellule radiales, 2. 1. Cellule cubitales, 4. 262 Analytical Notices of Books. * Antenne setaceex. Ovidepositorium abdomen cylindricum superans. Div. 6. xypuiprra. Latr. 4 species. ** Antenne setacee. Ovidepositorium abdomen depressum vix superans. Div. c. txpA. Fabr. 35 species. **&* Antenne pectinate aut serrate. Div. d. tarra. Fabr. 7 species. **** Antenne apice crassiores. Corpus elongatum, compressum. Div. e. cepnus. Fabr. 14 species. ***** Antenne subclavate. Corpus crassum. Div. f. aruania. Leach, 11 species. 2. Cellule cubitales, 3. Antenne subclavato-capitate. Div. g. crmpex. Fabr. 36 species. III. Cellula radialis 1. appendiculata. 1. Cellule cubitales 4. Antenne clavato-capitate. This division includes the genera Trichiosoma, Clavellaria, sared, Abia, and Amasis of Leach. Div. h. Perea. Leach. 2. Cellule cubitales 4. Antenne maris pilose; feminz clavate, nude. A genus of New Holland insects, 6 species, from the de- scriptions of Dr. Leach. Div.z Hyztotroma. Leach, 27 species. 3. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne femine filiformes pilose. Div. k. Pritia. Fargeau, 3 species. 4. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne pectinate aut serrate. Div. 7. Prerycoruorus. Klug, 3 species. IV. Cellula radialis 1, non appendiculata. 1. Cellule cubitales 4. Antenne maris pilose, famine clavato-subpilose. Div. m. Cryprus. *Jurine, 4 species. * This name has been preoccupied by Fabricius for a genus of the Ichneu- monide. Monographia Tenthredinetarum. 263 2. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne maris pennate, femine pectinate. Div. x. Loriwyrus. Latr. 12 species. B. Antennz articulis novem. I. Cellula radialis 1. non appendiculata. 1. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne pilosx, articulis post 2"™ obliqué insertis. Div. 0. Cuanius. Alug, 5 species. 2. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne pilose, articulis omnibus rectis. Div.p. Pristrrnora. Latr. 9 species. 3. Cellule cubitales 4. Antenne filiformes. Div. gq. Nematus. Jurine, 38 species, II. Cellula radiales 2. 1. Cellule cubitales 4. Antenne filiformes, aut apicem versus Crassiores. These are divided into 3 sections, from the colours of their antenne. Div. 7. Trnturepo. 122 species. 2. Cellule cubitales 3. Antenne filiformes. Div. s. Doterus. Jurine, 34 species. The above, with 46 under the head of incerta sedis, comprise in the whole 419 species. So far as its compilation, we should consider the work of M. De Saint-Fargeau, to be of some use to the British Entomologist, as it embraces all the species described by Klug, Leach, &c.; and what few new species occur are European, and appear to be mi- nutely described. In England we have about 250 indigenous species already known, which is certainly a very large proportion in comparison with other European groups of Insects. 264 Analytical Notices of Books. Annales des Sciences Naturelles. By A Society of Naturalists. Under this title a periodical work has commenced in Paris, with the current year, and promises to be very useful. It is intended to contain original papers upon all the branches of Natural Science that are usually considered as purely Scientific, with translations and extracts from other works; but confined principally to the Animal and Vegetable Kingdoms. The following original papers connected with Zoology have appeared in the first five numbers, with illustrative plates ; together with several others upen Geological and Botanical subjects. A new theory of Generation, embracing the history and de- scription of Spermatic Animalcula; in a series. By Messrs. Pre'vost and Dumas. A Memoir upon a Larva that feeds upon Helix nemoralis, and the insect produced by it, which is named Cochleoctonus voraz. By the Count Icnatius Mrerzinsky.—To this paper Mons. Latreitze has added a note. Extract of a Letter from M. pe FREMINVILLE; giving an ac- count of some of his discoveries in Zoology, &c. in a voyage along the Western Coast of Africa. Anatomical researches upon the Thoraz of articulated Animals, particularly that of hexapode Insects. By Victor Avupoin. A series of chapters. Some considerations respecting Meduse. By Messrs. Quoy and Gaimarp. With descriptions of Cyanea rosea, and C. Astier, two species hitherto unnamed. A Note upon a new Genus of the Family of Neritacew. By Mons. G. P. Desnayes. The Genus here described is the Pileolus of Sowerby, to which Mons. Deshayes has added a third species, which he has named Pileolus Neritoides; it is very much like Neritina Altavillensis. Description of a new species of Arachnidew, Genus Epeira, Walcknaer. By Mons. C. Vautuier. [Of this and the following two articles, we have given trans- lations in the present number, at p. 223, 224, and 233. ] Curiis’s British Entomology. 265 A correction of the Generic Character of Bellerophon of Mont- fort. By M. Derrance. Memoir on an American Bat, forming a new species of the Genus Nyctinomus. By M. Istpore Grorrroy Sr. Hitaire. Description of a new species of Coluber, named Coluber Richardi. By M. Bory pe Sr. Vincent. Observations upon the pretended Bones of the Ear, found by M. Weber, Professor of Comparative Anatomy at Leipsic. By M. E. Grorrroy pe Sr. Hirarre. Notice relating to the Pulex irritans. By M. Derrancer. Notice relative to the modifications of the Shell of certain kinds of Adhering Mollusca. By M. Derrance. On a preserved head of an inhabitant of New Zealand. By M. Leon-Durovur. New observations upon the Ornithorhynchus. Anatomical researches upon the Lithobius forficatus and Scu- tigera lineata. On the vestiges of placentary organization and of an umbilicus, discovered in a very young feetus of Didelphis Virginiana. By M. E. Georrroy pe St. Hivaire. The figures are lithographic, in a separate quarto atlas, and are in general well executed. British Entomology. By Joun Curtis, F.L.S. Since we first noticed this work several more numbers have appeared, in which we regret to observe, that contrary to the expressed wish of all scientific Entomologists and Entomological Students, to whom the work is intended to be useful, the author still adheres to his plan of adding to his beautiful and correct plates of the Genera of British Insects, insufficient specimens of plants, frequently in nowise connected with their accompanying insects: we say frequently, for out of sixteen plates in these four numbers, only five of the plants figured have any real connection with the insects: this is the more to be lamented, because in the title of the work the author professes to give figures of the planés Vox. I. s 266 Analytical Notices of Books. upon which the insects are found, while several of the plants given are scarcely, if ever, touched by any insects whatever. No. 3 contains, tab. 11, Motorcuus minor, found upon the blossoms of a tree at Arno’s Grove, and figured upon the seeds of LEthusa Cynapium, (Fool’s Parsley); tab. 12, Lycmna dispar, taken in considerable abundance flying among reeds about the centre of Whittlesea Meer, Huntingdonshire, in the beginning of August, 1822 and 1823; tab. 13, Eumenss atricornis; tab. 14, Hamopora pallipes, an insect belonging to Latreille’s family of Diptera, Eproboscidea, which subsists upon the blood of Quadrupeds and Birds, but figured with Caucalis Anthriscus. No. 4 contains, tab. 15, OmAsrus aterrimus, a genus of the Family of Carabide, which is found in the decayed stumps of trees :—here our author triumphantly exclaims, that the Peziza aurantia being found at the roots of decayed trees, accompanies the insect in the plate; and so he traces a connection between Omaseus aterrimus and Peziza aurantia. Tab. 16, Peronea ruficostana; tab. 17, Crasus septentrionalis; tab. 18, Emprs borealis, which he tells us has been taken upon the flowers of the willow; but he gives the Taxus baccata, Common Yew- tree. No. 5 contains, tab. 19, Ruiprrnorus paradoxus; tab, 20, PenTATOMA cerulea; tab. 21, Eyererra Russula; tab. 22, [pania cultellator. No. 6 contains, tab. 23, Staconum quadricorne; tab. 24, GastropaAcna quercifolia; tab. 25, Psen equestris; tab. 26, AtTHERIX Ibis. Genera of Recent and Fossil Shells. The 23d number of this work has just made its appearance ; it contains the following Genera, viz.—Pholas, with a figure of a fine specimen of Pholas costata, drawn from a specimen brought from Mexico by Mr. Bullock: Lithodomus, a genus of perforating bivalves, generally found in Corals, Madrepores, and Limestone Rocks: Cassidaria: Calyptrea, of which two plates are given, Mineral Conchology, §c. 267 showing several variations in the form of the internal lateral appendage: and Crepidula, with figures of six very distinct species. Mineral Conchology of Great Britain. The 79th number contains, tab. 456, f. 1, Tellina strzatula, and f. 2, T. inequalis, both from the green sand of Blackdown. Tab. 457, two figures of a most singular fossil called Orthocera paradoxica, from the Mountain Limestone in Ireland. ‘Tab. 458, f.1, Nautilus expansus, from the Chalk Marl at Hamsey; f. 2, N. biangulatas from the Mountain Limestone near Bristol. 'Tab. 459, f. 1, Producta fimbriata; f.2, P. plicatilis, both from the Derbyshire Mountain Limestone: f. 3, P. depressa, from the Dudley Limestone. Tab. 460, f. 1, Acteon crenatus; f. 3, A. elongatus, both from the London Clay at Barton Cliff; f. 2, A. striatus, a crag fossil, Tab. 461, f.1, Spirifer rotundatus, f. 2, S. cuspidatus, var. No. 80 contains, tab. 462, Sanguinolaria compressa, from Bar- ton Cliff: tab. 463, f. land 2, Nerita spzrata, from the Mountain Limestone ; f. 3 and 4, N. minuta; f. 5 and 6, N. costata, both from the Oolite at Ancliff: tab. 464, several species of Bulle: tab. 465, Auricula ventricosa and buccinea: tab. 466, Saxicava rugosa: and tab. 467, Myoconcua crassa; the descriptions of the last three plates will be given in No. 81, we do not there- fore make any remarks at present on the new Genus here pro- posed. De ua Becue’s Selection of Geological Memoirs. Mr. De la Beche has recently published, translated into English, an useful selection of the Geological Memoirs contained in the Annales des Mines; among which are the following arti- cles on Zoological subjects :—Eaxtract of a Memoir on the possi- bility of causing fresh-water Mollusce to live in salt-water, with Geological applications. By M. Beudant.—On the Zoological characters of formations, with the applications of these characters s 2 268 Literary Announcements. to the determination of some Rocks of the Chalk Formation. By M. Alexander Brongniart. Fhe latter contains lists of the organic remains in the Gray Chalk and Chalk Marle, (craie tufau) and Green Sand (glauconite craieuse, craie Chloritée) of Rouen, Havre, and their vicinity; of the environs of Perigueux ; of the Perte du Rhone near Bellegarde; and of the rocks and mountains of Fis, Sales, &c. forming part of the Buet Chain in the Savoy Alps. They are identified by reference to the figures of Sowerby, A. Brongniart, Defrance, and others. A lithographic plate of the fossils of the marle beds of the compact Jura limestone, and another of the Montagne des Fis, accompany the paper. Art. XXXIX. Literary Announcements. Desnayes’ Coquilles Fossiles des Environs de Paris. WE are happy to announce the commencement of a work, en- titled ** Description des Coquilles fossiles des Environs de Paris, par G. P. Deshayes, Membre de la Société d’Histoire Naturelle de Paris.” From what we know of the extensive collections, the numerous discoveries, and the considerable resources and talent of the author, we anticipate a very complete account of these in- teresting and beautiful fossils, particularly those of the Tertiary beds. ‘The work will appear in monthly numbers in 4to, Temminck’s Mammalogie. The celebrated Temminck has in the press a work, entitled *¢ Monographies de Mammalogie,” to contain elucidatory observa-= tions upon many Quadrupeds, respecting which there have been doubts; and descriptions and figures of many new species: to be published in numbers, in 4te, and not to exceed two volumes. Zoological Proceedings of Societies. 269 Histoire Naturelle des Mammiferes. By Grorrroy Sr. Hinaire and Freperic Cuvier. This magnificent work, which has been suspended for a short time, in order to collect new materials, is now about to be recom- menced. In the 44th, 45th, and 46th Livr., will be given Titles and Indexes to the two volumes already published. An edition of a similar work, in 4to, is announced at the same time, destined to supply the place of the larger work, at a cheaper rate. “6 Snecies Conchyliorum.”’ Ly Messrs. Sowerby announce their intention of publishing in Numbers, coloured figures and descriptions of all the Species of Shells, whether recent or fossil ; including, with those that are at present described, such other species as have not yet been noticed in other works, Art. XL. Proceedings of Learned Societies on subjects connected with Soology. ROYAL SOCIETY. Feb, 19.—A paper was read, On the Semi-decussation of the Optic Nerves; by W. H. Woutaston, M.D. V.P.R.S.” It has been generally concluded by anatomists, and they support the conclusion from the observation of the arrangement cf the optic nerves as distinctly seen in certain kinds of Fishes, that in the human eye, the optic nerves, after passing from the thalami ner- worum opticorum, meet, and then proceed apparently in union, though in reality still separate; so that the right eye is believed to be entirely supplied with these nerves from the left thalamus, and the left eye from the right thalamus: and this arrangement is called the decussation of the optic nerves. The consideration 270 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. of a particular species of blindness, however, has led Dr. Wollas- ton to a somewhat different distribution of the optic nerves. After fatigue, arising from four or five hours’ violent exercise, Dr. Wol- laston was affected by a partial blindness, of which he first be- came sensible by seeing only half the face of a person near him, and next by seeing only the termination ‘* son” of the name *¢ Johnson ;”? this blindness was to the left of the point of. vision in each eye; it was not perfect darkness, but merely a dark shade ; and in about fifteen minutes, it gradually passed off, in an oblique direction upwards towards the left. As it was refer- able to an affection of the nerves, Dr. W. did not apprehend or experience any return of it, other nervous affections being pro- duced by fatigue. Some years afterwards he again experienced this singular kind ef blindness, without any obvious cause, and first became sensible of it likewise by seeing only the half ofa person’s face; but in this case the right side of both eyes was affected, and complete vision was suddenly restored by the joy produced on receiving information of the safe arrival of a friend from a hazardous enterprize. Dr. Wollaston has a friend who has experienced the same affection for seventeen years past, when- ever his stomach is considerably deranged: another friend was attacked by pain at the left temple, and at the back of the left eye, which was succeeded by this sort of blindness on the right side of each eye; he can see to write,—see the paper he is writing upon, and the pen he writes with,—but not the hand that guides the pen. The affection in this case, Dr. W. fears, is a permanent one; the pain first experienced seems to have arisen from some effusion causing a degree of pressure on the brain, and the blindness from the continuance of this pressure on the left thalamus nervorum opticorum. Now all these cases seem referable to the partial insensibility of each retina, and they indicate that the left side of the retina in each eye is supplied with nerves from the same thalamus, and the right from the opposite thalamus ; so that the nerves supply- ing the former alone decussate, and not those of the right side ; an arrangement which Dr. Wollaston calls the semé-decussation of the optic nerves. Royal Society. 271 ’ Dr. Wollaston proceeds to illustrate this statement of the dis- tribution of the optic nerves, from that observed in those of Fishes: in the Sturgeon the eyes are diametrically opposite each, other, each on one side of the head, the left eye being entirely supplied with nerves from the left thalamus of the brain, and the right eye entirely from the right thalamus. ‘The blindness above described, Dr. W. remarks, does not appear to be rare, but is seldom particularly noticed, like many other things, because it is not understood. This very interesting paper concludes with a short section in which Dr. Wollaston applies the sympathy of structure in the eyes, indicated by the effects just noticed, to the explanation of the long agitated question respecting the cause of single vision with two eyes. Every point in each eye is supplied with a pair of filaments from the same nerve, and the two eyes thus sympa- thize with each other in every point: hence arises single vision ; and hence also the reason why infants direct both eyes in a cor- responding direction, instead of squinting. March 4.—A letter to the President was read, from Sir E. Home, Bart. V.P.R.S. entitled Some curious Facts respecting the Walrus and Seal, discovered in the Examination of Spe- cimens brought home by the late Expeditions, from the Polar Circle. As the late various expeditions to the northern regions had been planned, primarily, by the President and Council of the Royal Society, Sir Everard Home wished to lay before the Society some curious facts which he had ascertained in the examination of some specimens brought home by them. ‘This he was desirous of doing before the officers who were to proceed on the new expe- ditions should have left our coasts, in order that they might know that their exertions were important to science in various respects, besides the grand objects of their researches; and that they might likewise know that the pickle or brine in which provisions are preserved at sea is well adapted to the preservation of the internal parts of animals, preserving them in a better state for examination, dissection, and injection, than when they have been long steeped in spirits. 272 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. The first discovery Sir Everard had to state was, that the hind flipper or foot of the Walrus is provided with means for enabling the animal to walk in opposition to gravity precisely analagous to those possessed by the Fly, and the use of which could not have been suspected, had not the previous discovery been made re- specting the latter animal, as described in the Phil. Trans. for 1816. Sir Everard at once recognized this structure on seeing a mutilated foot of the Walrus, and, in consequence, had requested his friend Capt. Sabine to procure him a specimen of the animal, which Capt. S. had accordingly done, with the aid of the assistant-surgeon of the vessel in which he sailed. The examina- tion of this specimen showed, that in the hind foot of the Walrus there is a cup for enabling the animal to produce a vacuum, and thus to walk in opposition to gravity exactly like the two cups with which the Fly’s foot is provided. The apparatus in the latter required magnifying 100 times to make the cups distinctly visible, but in the Walrus it was diminished four times to bring it within the compass of a quarto plate. The author, when writing his former papers on the Fly’s means of progression, had not been able to determine the use of the two points in the foot of that animal ; Mr. Adams had called them pickers, and had supposed that they were inserted in the cavities of the surface over which the animal was walking, and thus retained it in oppo- sition to gravity,—an opinion which Sir Everard Home deemed undeserving of consideration ; though he could not assign any use to the points in question. In the foot of the Walrus, however, it is evident that the two toes which answer to the points in that of the Fly are used for the purpose of bringing the web closely down upon the surface traversed, so as to enable the animal to form a more perfect vacuum, and that the air is re-admitted on their being lifted up. This part of the paper was illustrated by a drawing by Mr. Bauer; and it was singular, Sir Everard ob- serves, that that gentleman should have had to delineate the same organ in two such different animals. The second fact described in this paper also relates to the Walrus. The bile in this animal is received from the liver by a Jateral communication into a large cylindrical reservoir, with muck Royal Society. 273 wucus in its coats, and is thence impelled with considerable force into the duodenum. The cesophagus is wide, admitting of large masses of food being swallowed, and of regurgitation: the open- ing of the pylorus is small and valvular, preventing the passage of its contents back again into the duodenum: the structure of the duodenum, pylorus, and adjacent organs, is very similar to that of those of the Seal. [t had been observed by Mr. Fisher, the astro- nomer to the late expedition under Capt. Parry, that the food of the Walrus is the Iwcus digitatus, which is found in great abundance in the Arctic seas, thrown up on the shores by the waves, and also beneath the ice. The third fact to which Sir Everard Home adverts in this communication relates to the structure of the funis and placenta of the Seal, as observed in a specimen of those parts brought home by Lieut. Griffiths, one of the officers in the late expedition under Capt. Parry. The vessels composing the former are not twisted, and are about nine inches long; at the distance of three inches from the placenta, they anastomoze into blood-vessels, which are connected with the placenta by three membranous coats; the whole conformation giving great freedom to the embryonic circu- lation. Drawings of this subject and that last noticed, made by Mr. Rose, a pupil under the author at St. George’s Hospital, are annexed to the paper. March 25.—A letter to the President was read, from L. W. Dittwyn, Esq. F.R.S., On the Geological Distribution of Fossil Shells, in continuation of his former paper on that subject, pub- lished in the Philosophical Transactions for 1823, and noticed in the former number of this‘ Journal, p. 120. The present communication contains further remarks on the relative periods at which the various families of Testacea appear to have been first created ; and suggests, that a regularly approx- imating series may be observed, from the fossil remains of the oldest formations, to the living inhabitants of our seas and rivers. It is the author’s opinion, that those Fossil Shells which cannot be referred to any of the Natural Orders into which the living Testacea have been divided, are only to be found in the beds below the Oolites; aud that in the Secondary beds above the 274 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. Lias, all the fossils may be referred to some of those orders. In the Tertiary beds, the approximation is progressively extended, and the shells of the London Clay may all be referred to some existing Genus; but no fossil can be completely identified with any living Species, except in those uppermost beds, which lie between the London Clay and our present creation. Mr. Dillwyn likewise gives some further observations on the changes which took place when the Chalk deposits were completed, and addi- tional reasons for believing that the Mollusca in our latitudes then required a more perfect protection, either from their enemies, or from the surrounding elements, than afterwards became neces- sary. He also notes the exceptions to the inference in his former paper respecting the Aporrhaides’, and other fossil Trachelipodes’, occurring in secondary formations, feeding only on dead animals, which are afforded by the perforated shells in the denuded tracts of Green Sand in Devonshire ; and alleges some reasons for suspecting that a mixture of strata may have occurred at the time when those denudations took place. April \1.—The reading was commenced of An Inquiry re- specting the nature of the luminous power of some of the Lampyrides; particularly of L. splendidula, L. Italica, and L. noctilucas; by Twrerpie Joun Topp, M.D.: communicated by Sir E. Homr, Bart. V.P.R.S. April 8.—The reading of Dr. Todd’s Inquiry was resumed and concluded. It commences with some general remarks on the various causes to which the luminosity of the Lampyrides has been ascribed ; the explanation of Macartney and Macaire, that the light they emit is a simple product of vitality being considered as the true one. Dr. Todd then proceeds to a mi- nute account of the apparent source and characters of the light in the several animals; describing the manner in which its emission is affected by solar and other light, by heat, and by cer- tain chemical agents respectively. In the Lampyris splendidula, the light is of a fine topaz-yellow colour, with a tinge of green, and is extremely vivid within the compass of a few inches, but does not extend its brilliancy far around ; within that space the hour may be seen on a watch by its means. The light of the Royal Society. 275 Fire-fly is of a pale yellowish tint, with continual flashes of vivid light: its variations are not connected with the motions of the insect’s wings, nor are they produced, as some have affirmed, by the frequent intervention of a membrane. This animal may be seen shining in full moon-light ; which is not the case with its congeners. ‘The luminous power of these Insects resides in an adhesive, transparent, granulated substance, deeply pene- trated, according to Macaire, with nervous filaments. This sub- stance continues to shine, when amputated, for a space of time never exceeding twenty minutes, and that in any medium; as under mercury, in water, in various gases ; and in vacuo. When the life of the animal and the ordinary luminous power have both been destroyed by strong poisons, as tincture of Nux vo- mica, &c. a fixed light appears, which continues for twelve or fourteen hours. Irritants excite the luminous power in all cases, and disorganizing substances destroy it. Dr. Todd concludes that this power is solely an effect of vitality, and that the light may be considered as animal light; being analogous to animal heat, which, he observes, arises from a power of separating heat from its combinations with matter. He adopts the hypothesis that its principal use is that of guiding the male insects to the female, in the season of sexual congress: the males always approach any light; and sometimes even the shining females of other spe- cies, until they come very near them. The fact that the larve and even the ova possess a degree of the luminous faculty, Dr. Todd does not consider as militating against this explanation; for various organs are partially developed in the earlier stages of many animals, which are only to be used by them when arrived at their perfect state. May 6.—The reading was commenced of a paper On Univalves ; by Cuarzes Cotrier, Esq. Staff Surgeon ; communicated by Sir James Mac Gregor, Bait. F.R.S. May 13.—Major Charles Hamilton Smith, of Guernsey, A.L.S. author of several Zoological papers in the Linnean Transactions, was elected a Fellow of the Society; and the reading of Mr. Collier’s paper was concluded. Mr. Collier commences this paper, by stating that he had once 276 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. purposed to frame a classification and nomenclature of the Testa~ ceous Mollusca, quite independent of the shells they inhabit, but had found such arrangement impracticable, from various causes 5 among which was that of Mollusca, of the same features and struc- ture, inhabiting very different shells. Besides, he remarks, the study of Conchology will always be pursued, by persons who are not interested in the comparative anatomy of the animals inhabit- ing the shells, He then proceeds to describe, from actual re- search, the characters of Univalves, and of their animals; giving first the general and then the particular conformation of each organ, and enumeratizg the Genera and Species to which they respectively belong, principally according to the Linnean system. He thus describes the various peculiarities of the mantle,—with its relations to the colour and form of the shell,—of the operculum, of the foot, and other parts; including under the latter, the structure of the various organs it contains. Mr. Collier concludes his paper with some observations on the different parts of shells, as affording means of classification, and on the natural and artifi- cial arrangements of them; proposing a new system founded on the characters of the shells and of the animals in conjunction ; and suggesting the designation of the families by Latin names of one termination. The parts he employs as characteristic are the cavity, lip, columella, rostrum, spire, and some others. June 3.—A paper was read On the Generation of Fishes; by J. L. Prevost, M.D. June 17.—Sir E. Home communicated a paper On the Organs of Generation of the Axolotl, and of other Protei: and the Society adjourned, over the long vacation, to meet again on Thursday, November 18. LINNEAN SOCIETY. Feb. 3 (continued).—A notice by Joun Hoce, Esq. B.A. of Norton, Durham, was also read, stating that a fine specimen of Falco chrysaétos, or Golden Eagle, was lately shot near the mouth of the Tees; being the fifth known to have been killed in England. Linnean Society. Zit The reading of Mr. Vieors’ extended paper On the Natural Affinities that connect the Orders and Families of Birds ; like- wise occupied the attention of the Society on Feb. 17 and March 2. March 16.—The reading of Mr. Vicors’ paper was also con- tinued at this meeting; and the following communication was read : On the insect called Oiorpos by the ancient Greeks, and Asilus by the Romans; by W. S. Macleay, Esq. F.L.S. Communi- cated by the Zoological Club of the Linnean Society.” In this paper, which may interest the lovers of Classical Antiquity as well as those of Natural History, Mr. MacLeay has produced many in- teresting proofs that the Cistrus of the ancients, OO cui nomen Asilo Romanum est, stron Graii vertére vocantes.” (Vira. Georg, II.), was not the insect to which this name is now given ; but a Tubanus. Olivier first observed that it was different from the Gstrum of the moderns. Pliny uses the name Tabanus for the Mua), which Aris~ totle says is nearly related to Gistrus, both being eumposPexevepa ; it cannot therefore be the modern Gistrus: he also says that both are bloodsuckers, which agrees with the Linnean Tudbani, but is wholly inapplicable to the modern Cistrus. As the insect is too well known for its name to have been forgotten or misapplied, there can be little doubt but that the Latin Tadanus, Italian Tabano, Spanish Tavano, and French Taon, are ideutical. Mouffet gives the latter as the same with the English Breese, Clegg, and Clinger, mentioned by Shakspeare, who speaking of Cleopatra, says : ‘¢ The Brize upon her, like acow in June, Hoists sail and flies.” Some elucidation is also derived from Homer, and the Prometheus of Aischylus ; and it is observed that Virgil describes the Asélus or (Estrus as abundant and acerba sonans, whereas our Gi strus bovis is a rare and silent insect. They were first confounded by Valisnieri, who has been followed by Martyn, and others. Mr. _ MacLeay infers that Aristotle did not even know the latter, from his assertion that no Dipterous Insect has a sting behind. 278 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. April 6.—A letter was read, from the Rev. W. Wutrear, A.M. F.L.S. of Starston, in Norfolk, stating that a Little Bustard had been shot in December last, at Little Clacton, in Essex. He consi- ders it to be a curious fact that this bird, an inhabitant of a Southern climate should have been met with in this country, ina hard winter. April 20.—Sir T. Gery Cutium, Bart. F.R.S. F.L.S. presented some sections of Fir timber, pierced to a great depth by the Sirex Jjuvencus of Linneus ; together with specimens of the insect itself. They were from the woods of Henham Hall, in Suffolk, the seat of the Earl of Stradbroke, where two hundred Scotch Firs have been destroyed by this insect ; being bored through and through. A Catalogue of the Norfolk and Suffolk Birds, with remarks ; by the Rev. Reverr Suerparp, A.M. F.L.S. and the Rev. W. Wuirear, A.M. F.L.S., was read in part. May 4.—A notice from Mr. Woop was read, respecting a spe- cimen of the Golden Oriole, Oriolus Galbula, shot on the 26th of April, while flying in company with some Blackbirds, at Alder- shot, in Hampshire. The reading was continued of Mr. Vicors’ paper On the Natu- ral Affinities of Birds; and of the Catalogue of Norfolk and Suffolk Birds, by the Rev. Messrs. Suerrarp and WaHITEAR. June 1.—The reading of Mr. Vicors’ paper was concluded ; and that of Messrs. SHeppArp and WuitTeaAnr’s Catalogue continued. June 15.—The meeting of this evening, which was an extremely numereus one, was honoured by the presence of H. R. H. The Prince of Saxe-Cobourg, and several other personages of distinction. Arexanper MacLeay, Esq. Src. L. S$. exhibited a curious specimen, showing that two Papiliones, referred to distinct Fami- lies by Fabricius, are in reality the Male and Female of the same Species: this specimen presented the forms and colours of both sexes, divided by a longitudinal line on the body; the right wings and side of the body being as in the Male, and the left as in the Female. The reading was commenced of a paper On the Structure of the Tunicata; by W. S. MacLeay, Esq. A.M. F.L.S.: and the Society then adjourned, over the long vacation, to the Second of November next. Soological Club. 279 ZOOLOGICAL CLUB OF THE LINNEAN SOCIETY. In our former number we had the pleasure of recording the esta- blishment of this Association, and the proceedings of their first, or Anniversary Meeting, on Nov. 29, 1823. The following business has been transacted since that period. Dec. 9, 1823.—A portion of a paper was read, “‘ On the natural affinities that connect the Orders and Families of Birds,” by N. A. Vigors, Jun. Esq. M. A. F.L.S. Jan. 13, 1824.—A paper was read “On the Insect called astpos by the Greeks, and Asilus by the Romans,” by W.S. MacLeay, Esq. M. A. F. LS. Jan. 27.—A paper entitled “¢ Observations on the Motacilla Hippolats of Linnezus,” by the Rev. Revett Sheppard, M.A F. L. S. was read. The reading of Mr. Vigors’ paper ** On the Natural Affinities that connect the Orders and Families of Birds” was continned. Feb.10.—A paper was read “ On the general construction of the wing in Dipterous Insects undergoing coarctate meta- morphoses, with a description of some new genera,” by W. 5S. Macleay, Esq. M.A. F.L.S. Feb. 24.—The reading of Mr. Vigors’ paper was continued. A paper, by J. E. Bicheno, Esq. F.L.S., was read, ‘ On the importance of General Views to the progress of Natural History.” March 9.—A portion of a paper was read, entitled, ‘ Zoologi- cal Observations,” by the Rev. Revett Sheppard, M. A. F. L.S. A portion of a paper was also read, ‘¢ On the Insects figured and sculptured on the ancient monuments of Kigypt,” by P. A. Latreille, of the Royal Academy of Sciences at Paris,” translated by Mr. E. T. Bennett, F. L. S. March 23.—The remaining portion was read of the paper enti- tled ‘* Zoological Observations,” by the Rev. Revett Sheppard, M.A. F.LS. April 13.—Mr. Vigors called the attention of the Meeting to two species of Birds, which he exhibited from his collection, new to the Ornithology of the British Islands. The first of these birds 280 Zoological Proceedings of Societies. Anthus Richardi of M. Vieillot, was taken alive in a net in the fields, north of London, in the month of October, 1812. The se-~ cond, an undescribed species of Scolopax, was shot in Queen’s County, in Ireland, on the 21st August, 1822. Mr. Vigors pro- posed to name the latter species Scolopax Sabini, in honour of the Chairman of the Club, and he signified his intention of giving a detailed account and description of these Birds at an early oppor- tunity. Mr. Vigors’ paper *¢ On the Natural Affinities that connect the Orders and Families of Birds,” was concluded. April 27.—A paper was read entitled “ Descriptions of several species hitherto unpublished, of the Genus wie: oes by Geo. Milne, Esq. F.L.S. GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Feb. 20.—A notice was read, of the Discovery of a perfect Skeleton of the Fossil Genus hitherto called Plesiosaurus ; by the Rev. W. D. Conybeare, F.R.S. M.G.S. The Plesiosaurus, which is the subject of this notice, was found in the blue lias of Lyme Regis, in Dorsetshire. In the whole exterior portion of its vertebral column the skeleton is entire, and of the remaining parts of the animal few are wanting. In the Transactions of the Geological Society, vol. v. and vol. i. second series, the author had attempted to assign to the various dis-~ persed and disjointed remains of this animal which were then known, their relative places in the skeleton, and his opinions, he observes, have now, in all essential points, received full con- firmation. After pointing out the errors into which he had fallen, Mr. Conybeare describes the osteology of this remarkable fossil animal ; the most characteristic and distinguishing features of which are, the extraordinary length of the neck, which fully equals that’ of the body and tail united, and the number of its vertebra, which very far exceeds that of any animal previously known. A notice was also read on the Megalosaurus, or great Fossil Lizard of Stonesfield, near Oxford ; by the Rev. W. Buckland, Royal Academy of Sciences of Paris. 281 F.R.S. F.L.S. President of the Geological Society, and Professor of Mineralogy and Geology in the University of Oxford, &c. &e. The author observes that he has been induced to lay before the Society the accompanying representations of various portions of the skeleton of the fossil animal discovered at Stonesfield, in the hope that such persons as possess other parts of this extraerdi- nary reptile may also transmit to the Society, such further infor- mation as may lead toa more complete restoration of its osteology. No two bones have yet been discovered in actual contact with one another, excepting a series of the vertebre. From the analogies of the teeth they may be referred to the order of the Saurians or Lizards. From the proportions of the largest speci- men of a fossil thigh bone, as compared with the ordinary stand- ard of the Lacertw, it has been inferred that the length of the animal exceeded forty feet, and its height seven. Professor Buckland has, therefore, assigned to it the name of Megalosaurus. The various organic remains which are found associated with this gigantic Lizard form a very interesting and remarkable assemblage. After enumerating these, the author concludes with a description of the plates, and observations on the anatomical structure of such parts of the Megalosaurus as have hitherto been discovered. May 7.—A letter was read from Thomas Botfield, Esq. M.G.S, accompanied by a collection of bones and horns of the Deer, and bones of Man and other animals, found in a clift of the rock, at a quarry at Hinck’s Bay, (near the Old Park Iron Works, ) in the parish of Dawley, and county of Salop. Their adhesion when applied to the tongue, showed that the animal gelatine was nearly gone, which does not take place till after a long period of in- humation. ROYAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF PARIS. January 5, 1824.—M. Gaillon communicated some observa- tions supplementary to his Memoir, on the Nutritive animals of Oysters. Vou. I. T 282 Scientific Notices. - January 12.—M. Magendie gave a verbal account of a Memoir, by M. Desmoulins, on the Composition of the Spinal Marrow. M. Bailli read a Memoir on the Use of the Horns of certain Animals, particularly in the Buffalo. January 19.—M. Le Gallois jun. deposited a Memoir, written by his father, on Animal Heat. M. Ségalas presented a kidney, converted, by the formation of a number of calculi, into a great membranous sac. M. Desmouslins commenced reading a Memoir on the Use of the colours of the Choroid Coat, in the Eyes of vertebrated Animals. January 26.—M. Strauss continued the reading of his Memoir, on the Anatomy of the Cockchaffer. M. Desmoulins concluded his Memior on the Choroid Coat. February 16.—M. Geoffroy presented, in order to prevent anticipation, a table of corresponding nomenclature of the various Bones of the Cranium in vertebrated Animals. Art. XLI. Scientific Notices. CHARACTERS OF THE CEBRIONIDZ. Norwicn, 4pril 8, 1824. Sir, An important error has crept into Dr. Leach’s useful Monograph on the Cebrionidz in the Zoological Journal, which should not, [I think, go uncorrected. 'The Family is stated to be Heteromerous, ‘¢ Tarsi pedum anteriorum et mediorum, 5-articu- lati; posteriorum, 4-articulati :” whereas it is Pentamerous, and the description should have been “‘ Tarsi omnes articulis quinque.” I am, Sir, Yours very obediently, Tuomas Bricgutwet, F.L.S. J.G. Cutipren, Esq. Cebrionide.—Aranea Domestiica. 983 CEBRIONIDA.—STIRPS III. We are indebted to the kindness of another Entomological Friend, for reminding us that Dr. Leach’s third Stirps or Family of Cebrionidz, are the females of the other Stirpes; and that the Cebrio brevicornis of Olivier, forming the genus Hammonia, has been for some years past, ascertained to be the female of Cebrio gigas : see article Cebrio, in Dict. Classique d’ Hist. Nat. ARANEA DOMESTICA. Some years ago, when making some observations on the habits of Spiders, I was struck with the following circumstance, which E have never found in any author on the subject. I insulated a com- mon House Spider, by placing it on a little platform, supported by a stick with a weight at the bottom, in the middle of a rummer of water. ‘The platform was abont 3 an inch above the surface, which was nearly even with the top of the glass. It presently made its escape, as was anticipated, by suffering a thread to be wafted to the edge of the glass ; but supposing that it might have been assisted by the water being so nearly on the same level, E poured some of it away, and placed the Spider as before. It de- scended by the stick till it reached the water, and examined with its two anterior feet all round, but finding no way to escape, it returned to the platform, and for some time prepared itself by form- ing a web, with which it loosely enveloped the abdomen, by means of the hinder legs. It then descended, without the least hesitation, into the water, to the bottom; when I observed the whole of the abdomen covered with a web containing a bubble of air, which F presume was intended for respiration, as it evidently included the spiracles. ‘The Spider enveloped in this little diving bell, endea- voured on every side to make its escape, but in vain, on account of the slipperiness of the glass; and after remaining at the bottom of the water for thirteen minutes, it returned apparently much ex- hausted, for it immediately coiled itself closely under the little Tt 2 284 Scientific Notices. platform, and remained afterwards without motion. This property of forming for itself a reservoir of air, by means of which it is pre- served under water, is somewhat analagous to the interesting habit of the Argyroneta, although it serves for a different purpose. In the present case, it is doubtless intended to enable the animal to cross the water with safety. T. B. AMPHITOITE, A FOSSIL OF VEGETABLE ORIGIN. AmpHitoitE was described by M. Desmarest, in 1811, and considered by him, at that time, as forming a particular division in the class of Flexible Polyparia. Many characters concurred to lead him to that opinion, as its ramified and irregular structure ; its distinct articulations, and the presence of impressed points on their superior margins, similar to the cells which, in the Polyparia, form the habitation of the animal; but he has since discovered that all these indications are fallacious, and that his Amphitoite is really of vegetable origin, and referable to a very common marine plant, the i aeeayat wove aperbi hom, apres By ipiley Seite’ vali’ alate Ss Gd eutalat pe Pega) bet oth 8 eed ean dys ntsintarte Je Anita it “SAGE Hi hoS Ty neitehs oy (petpeacat nel ual of , SRT SEY. toate ish) tie} Reacts hey tee yee ge Sn ‘ al is i omer re ae | ahaa il janis ws neg ae Poy He wide Gh a ule a tasting Og te oe gra: sty oh ah Yo \eeig ah? nite! wee © WS baljelidu7tds,.a90 sidliais at hia igs siphernaticky vs “ogbrpt rods Ay weerrewsentiry i, yeaenins etd ai itd es ha tis 5 all hia ARB omc cys bay wre 80) GAPS aida Dealf alll Give bo woo RADA te el ediainy sah aaa a7 qilapet Aries i 29 ba iy Huet Le tngl eters pect | URED Lyre Fahad vi OE Vie end ew hie otal veka Naya ‘peat fied eile ciymaet ido) erie vid moet otra erry ; iy part Neer aight? iss apes Ww soe i‘ Py ee hg cee wit 5) nee - oe iy uM ary Ps ie only {5.200 a Pk acon 4607 vet. of Actin ie ef SAW tee) can uk Reva ta ogte apa Denies dba $9) hl? fpouie, iG Aber et th Wag teres taaq weap ek i Frocientiens,, vest “bosranieis bet: Guy Bea darchibatens oi bi ‘lh “gilyitys lid ue THE ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL. October, 1824. Art. XLII. An Inquiry into the natural Affinities of the Laniade, or Shrikes ; preceded by some Observations on the present State of Ornithology in this Country. By Wiuttam Swainson, Esq. F.R.S. F.L.S. M.W.S. &c. Tue very able disquisition on the present state of Ornitho+ logical nomenclature, by Mr. Vigors, which appeared in the last number of this Journal, supersedes the necessity of any further observations on those particular points which that gentleman has so well discussed ; yet the subject is so much connected with the best interests of science, that I shall preface the present inquiry by a few observations upon the relative state of Botanical and Orni- thological knowledge in this country; which may, perhaps, tend to illustrate the truth of the remarks above alluded to, and will not be altogether foreign to the more immediate object of this essay. It is not too much to say that, generally speaking, Zoological Nomenclature has long usurped the station of Zoological Science. So great, indeed, is the repugnance of British Ornithologists to have their long-cherished notions about Genera in any way disturbed, that even the consciousness of our own national inferiority in this study is insufficient to shake their prejudices. This ‘* closing of the mind” against new ideas and new knowledge, is, however, more to be regretted than censured, As years pass over our heads, we cling with delight to the impressions of youth; and Vou. I. U 290 Observations on the after a certain period, we become unalterably wedded to those doctrines which we first imbibed; which we have long been ac- customed to consider as axioms, and to dwell upon with self- complacency. Knowledge will still increase ; and the time may come when we ourselves may view, if not with jealousy, yet with coldness and suspicion, the new theories that may hereafter arise, from a more extensive acquaintance with Nature. It is related of Linnzus, that when, in the ardour of youth and science, he came to visit the botanists and gardens of England, on his intro- duction to the great and venerable Sir Hans Sloane, that distin- guished man received the young stranger but coldly; being unwilling, as his biographer states, ** to have his botanical creed interrupted, by innovations so totally subversive of the system he had so long cherished ; Sir Hans being then in his seventy-eighth year.” If therefore the younger botanists of that age had sub- scribed to the opinion of this great and good man, and, like him, had settled in their minds that the systems of Ray and Tournefort had displayed all that nature could teach, and that nothing more was to be studied than the characters of new species, neither the names of Jussieu, Smith, Brown, nor Decandolle, with a host of others, would perhaps have been known: nay, not even that of Linnzus himself. His system would have been rejected as presuming to teach more than others, and he himself aspersed as being the greatest innovator on the science he professed to advance. The censure that must have been cast upon the Systema Nature by the admirers of those systems it intended to supplant, was, no doubt, much greater than what is now bestowed upon the promoters of general views and the institutors of new genera. Yet, in spite of every opposition, the Linnzan system became firmly established; so true it is, that Science can never remain stationary, or the inquiring mind be deterred from searching out fresh springs of knowledge. It is confessed on all sides, that the botanical labours of Linneus are infinitely more valuable than those which relate to the animal kingdom ; yet the former have undergone the greatest change, with little or no opposition, from succeeding botanists ; for not one can be named, of any eminence, who has opposed the ad- Family of Laniadee. 291 mission of new divisions ; and the very disciples of Linnzus have nearly doubled the number of genera contained in the early editions of their master’s system. Let us lock a little at the consequences that have followed. A very large proportion of those eminent botanists who have flourished since the time of Linnzus, have been natives of England. While, in our own days, we can boast of one whose eminent superiority is acknowledged throughout Europe. Such, in Botany, has been the consequence of acting on the spirit, and not on the Jetter, of the Systema Nature. We will now consider how far the study of Ornithology has kept pace with that of Botany. This portion of the Linnzan arrangement is acknowledged to be imperfect; yet it has unfortu- nately happened, that no one of his disciples, possessing a vigorous and comprehensive mind, has ventured to carry on the work of improvement, by following the example set them by their great master. lLinneus, in every succeeding edition of his works, increased the number of his genera, and amended the descriptions of the species. And it is somewhat singular, that in one of the last essays with which he enriched science, are contained the characters of two new genera; as if, by this act, he intended leaving us an example to alter and improve our systems, as our knowledge of Nature becomes more extended. But no: English Ornithologists, since that day, have fancied that they could not show greater respect to the memory of Linnzus, than by guarding his system against all amendment or improvement: thus they have gone on, overloading all the old genera with hosts of birds they were never intended to contain; until, at length, the whole system is become an inextricable labyrinth, in a great measuré useless, either for scientific or practical purposes. It resembles one of those beautiful trees I have seen in the forests of America, on which the seeds of different parasitic plants have been casually deposited : these take root, and gradually spread from branch to branch, until the whole becomes one undistinguishable mass. The proportions of the parent tree are no longer seen; and, over- loaded by vegetation, not originally its own, it falls to the ground a heap of ruins. U2 ae 2992 Observations on the This may appear an exaggerated picture, but I will appeal to any Ornithologist, engaged in the study of species, for its truth. I will appeal to the well-known fact, that the same bird is fre- quently described under two or more different genera in our popular systems ; and to the constant exposure of their defects by conti- nental writers. I will even cite a case in point. The peculiar structure of the tongue, in the genus Meliphaga of Lewen, is well known to most Naturalists: it is formed like a brush, the filaments at the end are tubular, and adapted for sucking the nectar of flowers: all the species, moreover, are natives of New Holland; they are, in short, as distinct a genus as can well be ima- gined. Yet, itis not a Linnean geuus ; and therefore, if a student wishes to ascertain the name of a species, in Dr. Latham’s General Synopsis of Birds, or in Shaw’s Zoology, he must read the descrip- tions of several hundred birds arranged in the genera Turdus, Certhia, Merops, and Syloia, before he can possibly ascertain one species: for the genus itself is altogether rejected as an innova- tion. It is a painful and an ungracious task to animadvert on the works of our contemporaries ; but we must speak plainly, when we see attempts made to bring us back to the infancy of the sci- ence, by the publication of systems, new indeed from the press,;— but obsolete in their ideas and language. While Botany, therefore, has been progressively advancing, Ornithology has remained nearly stationary. Our elementary books and our voluminous systems, as Mr. Vigors truly observes, speak the language of a remote period; and display a lament- able picture of our Zoological proficiency to the rest of Europe. Better indeed had there been no such terms as Order and Genus, for they have acted like a magical spell, upon minds that otherwise perhaps might have burst the trammels of nomen- clature, and like Linnzus, have ‘‘ dared think for themselves.” I may perhaps be censured for giving such a humiliating picture of our Ornithological knowledge, and I should have had some hesitation in drawing it, did I not see among our rising Natural- ists, some whose talents and whose zeal will not only redeem the past, but take a much higher view of the science than has hitherto Family of Laniade. 293 been done in this, or any other country. Ornithology is neither a study of names, nor of feathers ; it neither consists in giving to a bird a name, nor in describing the colours of its plumage: but ra- ther teaches us to enquire what place it occupies in creation ; what functions it is destined by Almighty Wisdom to perform; how its organization corresponds to these functions; and lastly, its _ various relations to other animated beings. It is to facilitate such enquiries, which shed a ray of dignity and importance on the study of Nature, hitherto obscured by the mis- taken zeal of nomenclators, that I have put together the following observations. Whatever errors they may contain I feel confident will meet with most indulgence from those who are best able to understand the difficulty of the undertaking. It is a new and intricate field of enquiry; which, to the honor of Britain, has been opened to us by one of her sons ;* but isnevertheless attend- ed with peculiar embarrassments to English Naturalists, from the acknowledged poverty of our Public Collections, and the total want of Zoological instruction,+ which our students have to con- tend against. Let us hope these deficiencies, which have now become a national reproach, will be soon supplied by a wise legis- lature. se LANIANZ. The Shrikes present so many characters analogous to the Falca- nide, or true birds of prey, that the most eminent Naturalists have disagreed as to their true situation. By Ray they are placed with the Accipitres ; and this example was followed by Linnzus. On the other hand Brisson considered them as more closely allied to the Thrushes, The opinion of M. Temminck has fluctuated ; for in the first edition of the Manuel d’ Ornithologie, this Natural- * Ineed hardly explain, that I here allude to the profound observations contained in the Hore Entomologice of Mr. William S. MacLeay. + Well may the foreigner who beholds our learned establishments, so splen- didly endowed, note, among the most remarkable circumstances attending them, that in none whatever should there be a Zoological chair.—Hor, Ent. 2 p. 456. note. 294 Observations on the ist has followed the classification of Ray; but ia the second, he adopts that of Brisson, by placing the Shrikes and Thrushes in the same order, The Laniane are Falcons of the Insect world, pursuing and de- stroying vast numbers of those countless multitudes that swarm in tropical countries. Some of these birds are so fierce and cruel as to destroy from mere wantonness ; and have been called Butcher- birds, from their singular habit of impaling their victims on thorns and cleft branches, where they are left to be devoured at leisure. It is this particular group, preeminent in strength to all the other Linnzan Shrikes, that may be considered the type of the whole family: they are distinguished by a short, arched bill, furnished with a strong projecting tooth near the tip; which is acute, and altogether very analogous to the true Faicons. To these birds we shall restrict the genus Lantus, and taking the Lanius excubitor of Linnzus for the type, proceed to notice what other birds will most approximate to this form; first observing, that they are found to inhabit the temperate latitudes of the old and the new world. Tamas yet unacquainted with any species of Lanius from Austras lasia, and am therefore led to believe, that its situation is filled in that fifth division of the globe, by the genus Falcunculus of M. Vieillot ; the Frontal Shrike is the only example of this type we yet know of. Itis distinguished from Lanius by having longer and more pointed wings, and an even tail, both indicating a greater power of flight, and in consequence, some difference of economy. Another deviation from Lanius may be seen in the Sourciroy of M. Le Vaillaint, introduced in the Ois. d’ Afrique, (2. pl. 76. f. 2.) though in reality a native of America; it is the Tanagra Guia- nensis of Latham, and it is remarkable for its round, naked nos- trils, and the tooth of its bill being nearly obsolete ; it has the wings of Lantus, and the tail of Falcunculus ; this type I haye called Cyclarhis.* I am unacquainted with any other kindred birds from the new world; while of the African types (which ap- pear numerous and interesting) I have seen but few : judging from the figures contained in the Oiseaux @ Afrique, I should think it * The characters of such new Genera as may be proposed, will be given in the next number, accompanied by figures of their bills, &c, Family of Laniada. $95 probable that the passage from the short-billed Shrikes to Tham- nophilus, Vieil. will take place among the birds of that continent. Two species, recently published by M. Temminck (P2. Col. pl. 256.) seem to warrant this belief: for in the figure of Lantus per- sonatus, Tem. we see the straight bill ef Thamnophilus, with the cuneated tail of Lanius ; while in that of Lanius virgatus we see the lengthened bill, and truncated tail, of Thamnophilus. M. Tem- minck has not noticed this affinity ; but on the contrary believes this last bird will lead us immediately to the Muscicapide.* Nous donnons cette espéce nouvelle comme pouvant servir de type d une section du genre Lantus, intermediare ouindiquante le passage qui, des Pie-griéches, conduit au genre Muscicapa de Linné. La force etlalongueur du bec, enrapport de la petite stature, ne permettent point d’associer cette espece et celles qui lui ressemblent plus ou moins avec les oiseaux donnés comme type des vrais Gobe-mouches, et moins encore avec le moucherolles. M. Temminck judiciously goes on to observe, that the square form of the tail constitutes a marked difference from the European Laniane ; this is true, but we find that a square, or even tail, is universal among the African Thamnophili; while la force et la longueur du bec, is the pecu~ liar character of that family. M.'Temminck very clearly proves that this bird has no connection either with the genus Muscicapa or Muscipeta; but has not informed us to which particular group of the Muscicapide it really indicates a passage; neither can I pos- sibly conjecture where this group is to be found. On the whole, [ am therefore more inclined to believe, from a review of the ahove argument, that the Lanius virgatus will offer no immediate tran- sition to the Muscicupide, but rather will represent one of those forms by which we shall quit the short-billed rapacious Shrikes, and enter upon the insectivorous Thamnophili. I wish, neverthe- less, that the reader should bear in mind that this opinion is net formed from an actual examination of the bird, but solely from the remarks of M. Temminck, which I have already quoted. That this bird will constitute a distinct type, appears evident from the confession of this celebrated ornithologist; but he has neither de- *It is necessary to quote this passage, because the real situation of this bird is important. 296 Observations on the tailed its essential character, nor given us any idea of what other birds we are to associate with it. There is still another African Lanius, which departs so much from the type of this particular group, as to strengthen our belief of its being intimately connected with the Thamnophiline. The bird i allude to, is the Bru-bru of Le Vaillant, or Lanius capensis of Gmelin; here the back or culmen of the beak is curved, the tip considerably bent,(but not abruptly hooked,) and the sidesstrongly toothed: so far we have the indications of a true Lanius; yet in the more slender and lengthened form of both mandibles, and inits short and even tail, we may detect an evident approximation to the Thamnophili. This affinity is in some measure confirmed, by its economy being so very similar to those birds, as to induce M. Le Vaillant to place them in the same section. Africa appears to be the favourite country of the Laniane, but the materials I have been enabled to consult are so scanty, that [ am debarred from pursuing this part of my inquiries further. Enough however has been said, to prove that the last two birds we have particularly noticed, will bring us very close to the division we shall call THAMNOPHILIN2. The group we are now to consider, is eminently distinguished from the last, by the prolongated form of the bill, which is strong, compressed, and straight nearly to the tip of the upper mandible, which terminates in an abrupt hook ; the tooth, so conspicuous in the last family, is here much smaller, and assumes the appearance of a deep notch: all these peculiarities indicate an inferiority of strength and aconsequent difference of economy. ‘The shortness of their wings, and the comparative weakness of their tarsi, show that neither of these organs are much employed in securing their prey. Their manners in fact are very opposite to those of the ra- pacious Laniane, for they are found only among thick bushes, feeding upon caterpillars and other small creeping insects, which, concealed among the foliage, escape the notice of the true Shrikes 5 while, to keep up the chain of aflinity—we find they inherit some- what of a rapacious disposition, by occasionally feeding upot Family of Laniade. 297 young or sickly birds, which take refuge in their haunts. The Thamnophiline are confined to the tropical latitudes of America, Africa, and probably Asia.* M. Vieillot first distinguished the long-billed Shrikes of Africa atid America by the generic name of T’hamnophilus,t and in his last work has figured the Pée-griéche blanchot of Le Vaillant, as the type. It is important, however, that we should separate the African Thamnophili, from those of the new world; because we shall presently attempt to show, that they both lead to different groups ; and because a peculiar distinction will be observed be- tween them ; the lateral scales on the tarsi of the African species, are formed of entire lamin, while, in those from America, they are small and very numerous; in the first, the rictws is strongly bearded, in the last it is smooth.{ The name of M. Vieillot I shall therefore confine to such species as inhabit America, agree- ably to the plan adopted by M. Temminck; while those of Africa will form the Genus Malaconotus, and may be represented by the T. olivaceus of M. Vieillot. But we must leave these for the pre- sent, and notice another remarkable form seen in the genus Vanga, Vieil., of which two species are known, one described as a native of Madagascar, and the other inhabiting Australasia : these birds have all the indications of being rapacious, or feeding upon small animals, as well as insects, and in this respect assimilating to the Shrikes ; yet the bill is decidedly formed upon the same model as that of Thamnophilus ; it is long and straight, with an abrupt and very sharp hook, which must be a powerful weapon in destroy- ing their prey: the nostrils are very peculiar, and are pierced in the hard substance of the bill, in a similar manner to Cassicus, Ba- * T am unacquainted with any birds from Australasia that can be referred to the genus Thamnophilus of M. Vieillot ; yet there is an unknown species in my collection, which, from the peculiar length of its wings, its even tail, and its general habit, belongs neither to the African nor American types. Reasoning from theory, Ishould suppose it to come from Australasia, in which case it will present a beautiful analogy to the long wings and even tail of Falcunculus. + I may here observe that M. Temminck, in adopting this genus, confines it to the species found in America alone; yet [am quite at a loss to know, from the Manuel d’Ornithologie, where the African species are arranged. t The tarsi of the African species are also much stronger. 298 Observations on the rita, and some other groups ; but this resemblance is'merely analo-e gous, as the whole havit of the bird is evidently rapacious ; while the structure of the bill is so characteristic of the Thamnophiline that Iam disposed to consider Vanga as the type of the whole fa- mily. May not the Lanius virgatus, T. which we have already noticed, be nearly related to this type? At present, Vangaape pears more isolated than any group we have hitherto considered. Closely connected with Malaconotus, is that singular African bird, called by Le Vaillant Le Geoffroy, and forming the genus Prionops of M. Vieillot. Its peculiarity consists in having the base of the bill concealed by a semi-circular crest of stiff, setaceous feathers ; which completely cover the nostrils, over which they are directed ; the wings also are more than usually long. Here I sus- pect we shall detect an affinity to Dicrurus,* whose nostrils are invariably defended by stiff incurved bristles, and whose wings are much longer than those of Malaconotus ; this affinity seems to be strengthened by the plumage of Prionops having a metallic lustre, and the bristles at the rictus, (like those in Dicrurus) being re- markably long. I feel considerable difficulty in assigning a station to the genus Laniarius of M. Vieillot, the type of which is the Lanius Bar- barus, 1. or Barbary Shrike of English writers. I notice it in this place, because if it is eventually included in the family of Laniade, its situation, undoubtedly, will be among the Thamnophiline. To these birds it is allied in general habit; its wings are short and feeble, its tail slightly rounded, though somewhat more length- ened ; its plumage thick, soft, and lax, and the feathers on the lower part of the back particularly long. All these characters presenta strong resemblance to T'hamnophilus and Malaconotus ; butin the bill, we see a marked difference ; its structure is consi- derably weaker ; it is deprived of the strong hook so conspicuous in these genera, and we are, in fact, presented with a form altoge- ther resembling that of the Merulade: this resemblance further * Tadopt M. Vicillot’s name for this group, in preference to that of Edolius, as proposed by M. Cuvier, because it has the unquestionable right of priority 5 setting aside its peculiar excellence in expressing a character which pervades the whole genus, Family of Laniade. 299, extends to the form of the nares, and the lengthened and robust tarsi. When these perplexing difficulties occur, and we are in doubt as to the situation of a bird, uniting in itself characters of two distinct tribes, our decision must always be regulated by its natural economy, Yet in the present instance, this is somewhat difficult ; for the statements before us are meagre and contradictory; M. Vieillot, when describing another species of this type, ( Laniarius viridis,) observes, probably on the authority of Perrien, (whose book I have no means of consulting,) Elle se tient dans les bois les plus fourrés, ala cime des grands arbres, ov le male fait entendre un sifjlet fort, qui a quelque rapport avec celui de la caille d’ Europe. On Vapproche difficilement, si on nimite sa voix; car il est @un naturel sauvage et tres defiant. Les bates sont sa nourriture principale,—Galerie des Oiseaux, Liy. 43. p].143. On this pas- sage | must make two remarks; relying on the accuracy of M. Vieillot, in associating this bird with the Barbary shrike, which indeed, (judging from the figure) it very much resembles, Ist, The wings of the African Malaconotus, like those of Laniarius barbarus, are rounded, and very weak; and we shall quote the opinion of M. Le Vaillant, to show the importance of this structure, when connected with their economy. %*‘ Ces caracteres de la coupe de Paile influant beaucoup sur la maniere de voler des oiseaux, ceux- ci ne se rencontrent que trés-rarement sur le sommet des arbres, ou nous avons fait remarquer que les pie-griéches de la premiere’ section, (G. Lanius, nob.) se perchoient toujours de préference; il est méme des especes dans cette seconde division, (G. Malaconotus nob.) que la nature exclut enticrement de dessus les arbres élevés, elles cherchent leur nourriture parmi les buissons bas et touffus, dans le centre desquels elles se cachent soigneusement, et vivent principalement de chenilles de vers et de toutes sortes dinsectes. La foiblesse de leurs ailes leur interdit toute espece Winsectes,” I have given this passage at length, because it acquaints us with the true economy of the Malaconoti, and at the same time proves the incapacity of Laniarius to frequent the tops of lofty trees. On the second part of M. Vieillot’s statement, it may be observed, that if the principal food of Laniarius viridis be berries, it can- not belong to a tribe so truly insectivorous as the Laniade, but 300 Observations on the rather to the Meruludw, which are both insectivorous and baccivo- rous. The Barbary shrike we know, on the testimony of M. Le Vaillant, feeds entirely upon insects. We shall discover a further resemblance between Laniarius barbarus, and the African Shining Thrushes, (G@. Lamprotornis, Tem.), by certain setaceous hairs or weak bristles, seated, in both genera, on the upper part of the neck adjoining the occiput; but which are so hid, as not to be distinctly seen without raising the sur- rounding feathers, whose length they generally exceed ; these sin- gular appendages are not, however, peculiar to the above genera, but are more or less distinguishable in several others, and are remarkably developed in the genus Tricophorus of M. Temminck. I have dwelfed more particularly upon Laniarius, because a good deal will depend upon the situation which Naturalists may — agree in assigning to it. Tor if this genus be admitted into the | circle of Thamnophiline, it becomes obvious we establish a pas- sage which leads directly to the Merulade ; or as Mr. MacLeay would perhaps express it, the great circles of Laniade and Meru- lade might here probably touch. While, on the other hand, if | the affinity between Prionops and Dicrurus be admitted, we may | pass, by the former genus, from the family of Thamnophiline to the third great division of Shrikes, which will hereafter be noticed. We must now return to the American types of this division, beginning with the genus Thamnophilus, which, I have already — observed, will comprise such only of the Thamnophili of M. Vieillot as are natives of the new world. Of these birds, I possess a very interesting series, which pass so insensibly by several inter- vening forms into the true Myothera of Illiger, that I scarcely know where to draw a line between such as should take their station in the great circle of Laniade#, and such as more properly may be associated with Myothera, in the adjoining circle of Merulade. This close affinity has been always remarked by the two eminent Ornithologists whose labours we so often advert to; and I should have been more satisfied had this intricate part of my subject already occupied their attention. Both these Natural- ists are in charge of superb national museums, enriched by the spoils of English collections (which have been successively disposed Family of Laniade. 301 of by sale), and by the labours of public collectors sent to ali parts of the world. With such enviable means, therefore, of advancing the philosophy of the science, let us hope they will bestow less attention upon species ; and more on the study of affini- ties, and those general laws of Nature which claim the primary attention of a philosophic mind. I must therefore be understood, in the following remarks, as speaking only of the American birds; for I have not yet seen any of the Indian Myothera* of M. Temminck, nor am I acquainted with any species either from Africa or Australasia. The type of Thamnophilus may be represented by the Lunius doliatus of Linneus ; and the characters by which it is separated from the African genus Malaconotus, have already been noticed. The bills of the larger species are strong and powerful, particu- Jarly the under mandible, which is deeply notched, and the gonix is considerably curved: it is in this organ that all the strength of the bird is concentrated; for the wings are short and rounded, the tail cuneated, narrow and weak, and the tarsi and claws much weaker than in Malaconotus. As we descend to the smaller species, the strength of the bill, and the size of the bird, are pre- portionably diminished ; yet without any change of structure. It is at this stage of our progression that I propose to fix the limits of Thamnophilus, and pass into the genus Formicivora: here the bill is no longer robust; but narrow, slender, and more cylin- drical; the under mandible weak, and the gonix nearly strait ; the tail of some species is even longer and more cuneated than in the last group; but, as we proceed in the series of species, it becomes gradually shorter, while the tarsi are proportionably Jengthened, until we come to a third ‘type of form, wherein the * M. Temminck has given a very extensive latitude to this genus, which Was originally instituted by Illiger, from the Zurdus colma (P\. Enl. 821), a South American bird. In the Manuel d’ Ornithologie, it is stated, ** Toutes les especes sont de l’ Amerique Meridionale;” nevertheless, we find that Myothera capistrata and M. melanothorax of the Planches coloriees (P1. 185) are both natives of Java. As the original genus has thus been so much changed, in order to eontain other approximatory types, it is here necessary, for the sake of per- spicuity, to apply the name only in reference to the type originally proposed by Illiger. 302 Observations on the tail is nearly obsolete, and the legs (from their great length), evidently show we have reached a group of cursorial or ambulating birds, who rarely, if ever, frequent trees. These I shall call Urotomus. Finally, there seems to be another group, wherein the tail is again developed ; the tarsi are proportionably long, but more robust ; and the whole habit shows a much greater analogy to the Merulade, than any of the foregoing types: these birds I shall, for the present, consider as forming the genus Drymophila. Whether they should precede or follow Urotomus, in our advance towards the Myothere of Illiger; or whether they will partially bring us back (by a circular disposition of the other types) to Thamnophilus, are questions which must be decided by others, whose cabinets are better stored with materials for ascertaining these points. At all events, either Urotomus or Drymophila will conduct us very close to Turdus Colma, the bird which forms the original type of [lliger’s genus Myothera. Having now enumerated all the South American types I have seen which intervene between Thamnophilus and Myothera, I must postpone the investigation of such other kindred groups as may be found to inhabit Africa, India, or Australasia. The Indian Myothere of M. Temminck seem to differ so little from my group Formicivora, that they may, possibly, be united together; while the interval between the long-tailed Drymophile and the true Myothere, may perhaps be filled up either by American species I have not yet seen, or by certain African birds, only known to me by the figures of Le Vaillant. But this is conjecture, and indeed belongs not to our present inquiry, which is more to ascertain what groups really constitute the circle of Laniade, than to trace their ramifi- cations into other tribes. In the two we have already investigated, namely, Laniane and Thamnophiline, there evidently seems a double affinity : one, by which they themselves are united, and which may be termed a family affinity ; and another, by which they branch off, by different routes, into the neighbouring family of Merulade, and may therefore be called collateral. These two affinities are particularly observable among the Thamnophiline. Whether the different changes of form, by which we see these transitions are effected, be called genera, subgenera, Family of Laniade. 503 or divisions, is of no consequence whatever to the science itself, for it is a mere question of nomenclature. We see that these forms do actually exist in Nature, and that they indicate a change or modification of economy ; and by whatever name we call them, still they must be kept distinct in our ideas, if we wish to study natural affinities, and the operations of Providence in preserving the harmony of creation. Referring to what we have already said, when noticing the genus Prionops, we shall make use of that type to conduct us to the third family of these birds, EpoLiANz. It is to M. Le Vaillant that we were first indebted for a know- fedge of the habits and economy of certain African birds, which he brought together under the common appellation of Drongos. Yet the ill-directed zeal for nomenclature among our Linnzan writers, prompted them to pass over the opinions of this accurate observer of Nature; and, up to this day, we find the species confusedly mixed, in their systems, with the Shrikes and Flycatchers. The Drongos first found a place in systematic arrangement, in the Nouvelle Ornithologie of M. Vieillot; who has given them the name of Dicrurus, from the tail, in nearly all the species, being considerably forked; in the following year they appeared in the Regne Animal, as the genus Edolius. Guided by the impartial rule of priority, I shall speak of these birds under the first of these names. The Dicruri are altogether excluded from the American conti- nent; they are met with in India, but are chiefly found in Africa, where M. Le Vaillant discovered a great number of species, and has given their history at some length, accompanied by numerous figures, in his valuable work Les Oiseaux d’ Afrique. We find they are insectivorous, and take their prey on the wing: these habits are in perfect harmony with their structure : the wings are longer, more pointed, and consequently more powerful than in the Tham- nophiline. Their bill is short, strong, and arched above, as in the true Shrikes; but, (as suited to their particular mode of feeding) 304 Observations on the the base is broad, and surrounded by stiff bristles; the nostrils are also defended in the same way, and are often completely hid 3 further, the tooth, which is so conspicuous in Lanius, and is still prominent in J’hamnophilus, altogether disappears in the Dron« gos; and the upper mandible is merely furnished with a notch to receive the point of the under, asin all the tribes of Muscicapide ; the feet are remarkably short, and are useless either for perching upon the ground, or seizing their prey: the soles are flat, and plainly show that these birds can only repose upon. branches, like the Meropide, and others, whose deeply-forked tails indicate a powerful flight. In short, the Drongos present us with the first advance, among the Laniadew, towards the general structure and economy of the Muscicapide, and by considering them as forming the third great division of the Shrikes, we at once reconcile the arrangement of Linneus with the opinions of the most eminent naturalists of the present day. The type of this family will not however be found in the genus Dicrurus, but in that singular and rare bird called, by Le Vaillant, Bec-de-fer ; and first described in the Oiseaux d’ Afrique as having been brought from some island in the Pacific Ocean. It once graced an English museum, but now enriches that of the French capital. I can therefore only judge of its structure from the figure and description of Le Vaillant; from these it appears to be a strong, robust bird; having a short, arched, and gradually hooked bill, formed on the same model as that of Dicrurus, but much more powerful ; defended at the rictus by long stiff bristles, and over the nostrils by lengthened, elevated, and incurved setaceous fea= thers, forming a sort of crest, precisely similar to what is seen in one or two species of Dicrurt, figured by Le Vaillant. This bird forms the genus Sparactes of modern authors, and at present stands by itself as our second division of the group of Edoliane. But before leaving the genus Dicrurus, it may be proper to notice several forms by which it is insensibly connected to the short-legged Thrushes of India and Africa: this passage is begun by the genus Tricophorus of M. Temmiuck; where the bill, although somewhat weaker, still retains a great resemblance to that of the Drongos ; the rictus is likewise strongly bearded, and Family of Laniade. 305 the tarsi equally short ; but the tail is even, or slightly rounded ; while the setaceous hairs, which we have before alluded to as being concealed among the nuchal feathers in Dicrurus, are very conspicuously developed in Tricophorus, and are more than double the length of the surrounding feathers. A singular uniformity of plumage runs through all the species, of which I possess four or five, all received from the western coast of Africa. This appa- rently limited habitat is likewise noticed by M. Temminck, who particularly says, toutes sont des cdtes occidentales d’ Afrique. In some species the bill is smaller, the nuchal bristles, less con- spicuous, and those of the rictus much shorter. We are thus pre- pared for the transition, which here takes place, into the genus Brachypus,* a name by which I propose to distinguish the short- legged Thrushes of Linnzus and of modern writers. These birds are exclusively confined to Africa and India, and are so strikingly distinguished from the true 'Thrushes, that it is somewhat singular their peculiarities should not have been noticed long ago. Their tarsi are remarkably short, like the two last genera; but their bills are weaker, and the nuchal bristles scarcely perceptible. In short, it is in this genus that all the habits of the Edoliane gra- dually disappear; and bring us to a small group of genuine Thrushes, found in Africa, having lengthened tarsi, a graduated tail, and other characters assimilating to the Merulade, all of which are seen in the Turdus vociferans.—Zool. Ill. 3. pl. 180. It thus appears, that not only the Thamnophiline, but likewise the Edoliane, will lead us by different paths to the great tribe of Merulade ; the first by means of the Myothere of authors, and the latter by the genus Brachypus. Leaving these collateral affinities, let us now consider what other birds may be associated with the genuine types of the Edoliane. Here we are met by the genus Irena, a name given by Dr. Horsfield to a very beautiful and rare bird, discovered by that naturalist in the island of Java. As this form is only known ‘to me by the figure and description that has appeared of it in the “© Zoological Researches,” of its discoverer, I must refer the * Le Curouge, Vail. pl. 107. f. 1.3 Le Cudor, Ib. f. 2.3 Le Brunoir, Ib. pl. 106. f. 1. &e, &e. Vox. I. Mt 306 Observations on the reader to that work, where its characters are detailed with Dr. Horsfield’s usual precision. It is enough in this place to state, that Irena differs more immediately from the Drongos, by having an even tail; while its relationship to those birds is shown in its strong and arched bill, bristly rictus, and very short feet. M. Temminck, whose peculiar tenets on the subject of genera have been so ably answered and refuted by Mr. Vigors, will not permit Irena to form a genus; because it is nearly related to Dicrurus (Edolius. Tem.); and he has actually placed it in that genus. No further proof of this affinity, therefore, need be urged ; while the perusal of Dr. Horsfield’s description (the accuracy of which has not been questioned) will fully establish a sufficient distinction between the two types. The genuine Drongos appear totally excluded from Australasia ; yet we find they are beautifully represented in the Ornithology of that country, by the Carinated Flycatcher. (Zool. Ill. vol. 3. pl. 147). ‘This bird will in all probability forma distinct type 5 allied to Dicrurus in general habit, and to Jrenaby its truncated oreyen tail. I confess, that at the timie of my first describing the bird, this affinity did not occur to me. I then placed it condi- tionally among the Muscicapide, detailing those characters which will now form its generic distinction. At present we know but of one species, but I have little doubt many others will be disco- vered when the inland productions of that vast country are better known. It is here most probably that we should notice Artamus* (Vieil.) a remarkable genus of birds from Australasia. The structure of their bill is evidently a modification of the form seen in Dicrurus, and will therefore bring them into the same family. Yet the extra- ordinary length of their wings (which in proportion and structure * M. Vieillot first distinguished these birds by the generic name of Artamus, in 1816, (See Analyse d’une Nouvelle Ornithologie Elementaire, p.41). In the following year was published the Regne Animal, where they appear as the genus Ocypterus. M.'Temminck adopts this name. Dr. Horsfield, appa- rently not aware of the prior denomination of M. Vieillot, proposes Leptopteryr, justly observing that a genus Ocyptera has been already established in Entomology, by M. Latreille, in the Genera Insectorum, published in 1809. Family of Laniade. 307 resemble those of the Hirundinide), leaves me in considerable doubt as to the exact situation of this singular group. I must again refer to the Zoological Illustrations for another bird which is nearly allied to Dicrurus, and whose natural station is of considerable importance to our present views; this is the Muscipeta labrosa (Vol. 3. pl. 179), a rare bird from the interior of Southern Africa. Unfortunately, I cannot now re-examine the specimen from which my former figure and description was taken, as it was transmitted, soon after, to one of the continental museums. Yet the particulars I then detailed will materially guide us on this occasion. It appears to have a thick and strong bill, the four outer quill-feathers graduated, the tarsi very short, the knees feathered, and the plumage black with a metallic lustre. We here recognize the general characters of Dicrurus; while the rounded shape of the tail, the form of the mares, and the absence of strong bristles at the bill, show a decided approxima- tion towards another family of insectivorous birds. In short, so closely does the Muscipeta labrosa approach to the Echenil- leurs of M. Le Vaillant (G. Ceblepyris, Cuv.) that at this dis- tance of time, I almost question whether I might not have over- looked the spinelike feathers on the back, by which those birds are so well distinguished. Yet, even admitting this to be the case, still its connection with Dicrurus is sufficiently obvious, to be adduced as a proof of the accurate views of M. Le Vaillant ; who places the Echenilleurs close to the Drongos, and in which arrangement he is followed by M. Temminck. I shall therefore not greatly err in adopting the same belief, and in supposing that the Muscipeta labrosa may probably represent a form by which these two groups are connected. Having now enumerated all the types of form I have yet seen, which may be referred to the Edoliane, I hope to continue the subject in the next number of this Journal, and to show that the Kchenilleurs, most probably, will represent the fourth division in the great family of Laniade. [ To be continued.]} x2 308 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. Art. XLIIL.—Sketches in Ornithology ; or, Observations on the leading Affinities of some of the more extensive groups of Birds. By N. A. Vicors, jun. Esq. A. M. F.L.S. In ascience, which, like Natural History, is founded upon facts, and which is indebted to actual observation for the most impor- tant of its materials, it is evidently more conducive to its advance- ment to exhibit occasionally the progress which it has made, than to delay in fruitless expectation of being enabled to exhibit it in perfection. Every day’s experience convinces us of the exhaust- less nature of the sources from whence our information is derived, and the impractibility of completing our acquaintance with even a single family or genus. In the very groups where we fancy our knowledge to be most perfect, we find new species coming in, new modifications of form springing up, and new inferences de- ducible from them, which still call for additional attention ; and these arising not only from foreign sources, but from those imme- ‘diately around us. A faint outline even of those groups which appear most within our observation is the utmost we can hope to delineate. And to withold our discoveries upon what has actually come before us, in order to add all that may hereafter throw light ‘upon the subject, to wait in short for perfection, is to linger, like the countryman in Horace,—dum defluat amnis,—in idle expec- tation that the stream of Nature will pass by, and the sources of our information be exhausted. It is in this point of view that a journal, like the present, ap- pears eminently useful to science. It affords a channel through which the Naturalist is able to diffuse the current information of the day: giving instant circulation to every useful discovery as if arises, and every interesting fact as it becomes known. Through such a medium the inquirer into nature has an opportunity of stating the results of his researches as he advances ; correcting his errours as he detects them, and confirming or annulling his pre- vious conjectures as he finds them corroborated or falsified by experience. The concurrent observations of contemporary writers Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. 309 are by these means brought together; and the scattered informa- tion of every country is concentrated into one common repository. While publications of more ostensible pretensions slowly deal out the more finished and elaborate productions of science, a journal, continually at work, becomes a storehouse that furnishes them with materials for their labours, and at the same time keeps alive the spirit of inquiry in general, by a constant and nepular supply of interesting intelligence. Conceiving such beneficial results to be likely to arise from a publication like the present, I shall beg leave to offer through its pages a few imperfect observations on some groups in Ornitho- logy. I call them imperfect with unaffected sincerity. Any attempt to enter into the details of such groups under the un- favourable circumstances that attend the pursuit of natural history at present in this country must necessarily be imperfect. We are not only unsupplied with that indispensable information respecting their internal anatomy, and their characteristick manners, which forms the groundwork of zoological science, and which is equally a desideratum with all, but we are even deficient in those subjects for observation, which our contemporaries on the Continent possess in superabundance. It is an extraordinary fact, that al- though this country held the almost exclusive command over the ' greater portion of the globe, for.a considerable period of the last and present century, and with it the equally exclusive power of appropriating to ourselves the productions of nature that thus lay within our reach, so much were those opportunities neglected, or rather so much was the importance of such researches under- valued, that we are far behind our continental neighbours, in despite of all the disadvantages of exclusion under which they laboured so long, in the accumulation of those stores, which are necessary to the advancement of zoology. How far this is the case may be judged from the single fact, that, of a family on which I am about to offer some observations in the present number, and which extends to above three hundred described species,* not a sixth part is to be consulted in the national re- * It has been suggested to me by a friend, that the observations I made in the last Number of this Journal respecting the number of species described 310 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. pository of this kingdom. The zeal and love of science of in- dividuals have indeed added considerably to the materials that are open to the student ; and the liberality of scientifick men in general affords every facility to the researches of those who would be likely to profit by the inspection of their collections. But still many impediments lie in the way of him who founds his views in zoology, chiefly on the comparison of its various subjects. It is difficult to combine our observations ou groups that are scattered in Dr. Latham’s last edition of his ‘‘ Synopsis’ may be misconceived; and that, from the well known fact of a considerable number of the described Falcones in that work being but varieties in age or sex of actual species, my statement of their amounting to two hundred and forty seven may be con- sidered as an exaggeration, and as introduced only for the purpose of further- ing my argument. Were the number of the Falconide@ however described in that work to be reduced even to one third, my argument would still hold good; there would yet he a sufficient number to call for separation. But this is not the point in question. I stated that the student, who has a Linnean Falco to be identified, must compare it with the two hundred and forty seven des- criptions relating to the genus contained in that work. It is of no consequence whether the descriptions are those of species or varieties, still they are des- criptions which must be separately consulted. Even were these reputed species to be admitted as varieties, and arranged in their proper stations, the descriptions of them must still be separate, so strongly are they distinguished from each other, and the comparison of them must still afford equal labour to the student as if they were actual species. In stating therefore that the number ° of described species amounts to that specified above, I conceive that I err neither against the fact nor the legitimate modes of reasoning. The very cir- cumstance itself, which is known to every tyro in Ornithology, who has gone no further in his studies than M. Temminck’s Birds of Europe, that the species of the Falconide have been multiplied, ad infinitum, in consequence of their apparently specifick differences, is a convincing proof of the necessity of their subdivision by decisive generick characters. Hitherto they have been sepa- rated by their differences only in size or colour, by the strie or the fascie of a feather. These confessedly vary by age, by sex, by accident. But the generick characters adopted by modern writers are constant, (one or two instauces perhaps excepted where age may more fully develope them ;) and as such they relieve the Naturalist from many difficulties in his investiga- tion even of species. When he is once acquainted with the general nature of the changes that take place in this family, he is led to bring together those apparent species which differ only in the unimportant characters that are subject to variation, by a strict attention to those more essential points which are generick, and never vary. Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. $11 and distant from each other, or to form any decided opinion on their mutual affinities or analogies, where we can only deduce our inferences from recollection. Such are the difficulties which, among others, render it almost hopeless for the naturalist to attempt that finished detail, which it would be his object to exhibit, of the subject which he investi- gates. But still it is preferable, as I before observed, to make some advance than to stand still, and to accomplish something, though all cannot be effected. The following observations will strictly accord with these views. ‘They are intended to embrace the different opinions which have been entertained by naturalists of all countries on the several groups of Ornithology that will occasionally come before me. ‘They will bring together for the first time in this country the modern genera that have been esta- blished by foreigners; for strange to say, we have no work * of English growth on Ornithology, which professes to give more than the genera of Linneus, with some few unimportant additions. They will endeavour to bring these detached groups into such order as will at least afford some idea of their natural station. And the whole will be conducted with a particular reference to their affinities and analogies, and with a view to those principles + of mutual connection among themselves, according to which the investigation of the subjects of Natural History is now generally carried on. However imperfect the results may be of the present undertaking, the particular mode of inquiry pursued, will I think afford a clue to future investigation, according as opportunity and more extended information tend to render the prospect of success in it more probable. * | must except the Continuation of Dr. Shaw’s Zoology, conducted by my friend Mr. Stephens, whose introduction of the modern views on Ornitho- logy into the last volumes of that work that have come more especially under his care, and whose ability in unfolding them, is deserving of every commen- dation. I must also observe that the same views, and more particularly those of M. Cuvier, are to be found briefly referred to in Dr. Fleming’s valuable work on the ** Philosophy of Zoology.” + It is scarcely necessary to subjoin, that I allude to the principles de- veloped by Mr. Mac Leay in his “ Hore Entomologice ;” which I am happy to find are every day becoming more known, and more valued as they are more known, 312 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. On tHe Groups OF THE FALCONIDE. In entering on the investigation of any extensive group in Natural History, the surest guide to the accurate distribution of the individuals that compose it, is to fix our attention on those in which the typical character that distinguishes the group is most fully devoloped. This point being determined, we descend with ease to those more remote species, which partially deviate from the type, and partake of the characters of the next adjoining groups that are connected with their own. On looking for the typical character among the numerous species that compose the Family of Falconide, or the genus Falco of Linnzus, we may at first thought feel inclined to assign the place of superiority to those which display the size and strength of the Eagles :—Aquile maximus honos, maxima et vis.*—It is not however in such qualities that the perfection of the present group consists. The Family of the Vultures which is immediately connected with it, possesses these qualities even to a greater extent, and there they may form a ground for typical preeminence. But the present group is distinguished from the other Birds of Prey more by their courage than their size, more by their dexterity in pursuing and seizing their prey, than their powers of body. And the species which carry this dexterity to the greatest extent, and whose powers of flight are most conducive to the rapid seizure of their prey upon the wing, are those which appear to be most endowed with the characteristick traits of the family. The same groups also possess a character that equally distinguishes them, in that superiour intelligence, if I may so call it, at least in that generosity and tractableness of disposition which brings them within the dominion of man. Taking these habits and disposi- tions exclusively into consideration, we may distinguish the groups of the Falconide into two separate divisions, which may be considered + typical and aberrant; and which the common * Pun. Lib. x. c. 3. + For the signification of the terms typical or normal, and aberrant, I have to refer the reader to the works of my distinguished friend Mr. Mac Leay, to whom I have before alluded. See particularly ‘*‘ Hore Entomologice,” passin and * Linnean Transactions,” Vol. XIV. Art. III. On the Groups of the Falconide. 313 language of those days in which the present tribes were most known and sought after for the purpose of Falconry, equally separated, with a view to the same habits and qualities, under the denomination of noble and égnobdle. The nodle or typical groups of the Falconide, thus character- ized by their manners, are equally set apart from the rest of the family by external character. Their bill is strong, short, curved from the base, and more or less dentated. This character of the toothed bill may be considered as strongly indicative of rap- torial habits. A similar peculiarity it may be observed, discerni- ble among some of the Order of Insessores* is resorted to asa mark of distinction between the birds which prey upon insects, and those whose food is vegetable. And it is this character which, next to habit, preserves the analogy between the Raptores of the Class of Birds, and the Carnivora, or Fere of Linnzus, among the Mammalia. It thus may be looked upon as an osten- sible and important mark of separation among the tribes of birds in general, and as a character, of which the greater developement may more particularly be considered the strongest evidence of typical superiority in the raptorial group before us. The typical groups, thus distinguished, arrange themselves into two divisions or stirpes; the first of which is known by the shortness of the wings, which do not extend further than two thirds of the tail; the second, by the wings extending to an equal, or nearly an equal length with the tail. The former of these normal stirpes, which is distinguished from all the other short-winged Falconide by the bill being curved from the base, I shall denomi- nate, for the sake of perspicuity, Stirps Accipitrina or Hawxs ; the latter, which is equally distinguished from all the long-winged groups of the family by the strong dentation of the bill, I shall call Stirps Falconina, or Faucons. The external character of these typical groups can never be mistaken. They will either present, like the true Falcons, a bill strongly dentated, which at once de- * It may be here necessary to state that in referring to the “ Insessores,” or Perching Birds, I use a term introduced in some Observations of mine ‘* On the Natural Affinities of Birds,” lately read before the Linnean Society. The Order embraces the united Linnean Orders of Pice and Passeres. 314 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. cides their station : or if, as in some of the Hawks, the mandible is entire, or marked only by a rounded protuberance instead of a tooth, they will exhibit the united characters of short wings, and short bills, which though observable separately in other groups of the family, are found united in no species besides those of the Hawks. Of the aberrant or ignoble species of the family, a group pre= sents itself nearly approaching that of the Falcons in the length of the wings, and the general form of the bill, but separated from it by the absence ofa tooth on the upper mandible. ‘The deficiency in this character indicates at once a falling off from the superiour courage and higher faculties of the typical division of the family. Its habits are conformably to this deficiency slothful and cowardly 5 it does not pursue its prey upon the wing, but seizes it by stealth and in ambuscade ; while it is also found, unlike the nobler Fal- conide, to feed upon substances not procured by its own rapine. This group may be distinguished according to the denomination of its type, as Stirps Buteonina, or Buzzanps. Nearly allied to the last division in their inferiour habits and faculties, is a group of which the well-known F. Milous of Lin- neus forms the most conspicuous type. Possessing however an even still weaker bill and feebler talons than the Buzzards, it is particularly distinguished from them by its tail being more or less forked, and its wings longer than the tail. These last-mentioned particulars give the present group a decidedly distinct character in their mode of flight. They seem to glide through the air with an easy and imperceptible motion, sailing* in circles with a grace aud elegance peculiarly their own. This fourth group may be set apart as the Stirps Milvina, or Kires. The entire of the remaining species of Falconide, that are not * Tidem (milvi) yidentur artem gubernandi docuisse caude flexibus, in czlo monstrante natura, quod opus esset in profundo. Pim. lib. x. c. x. Alis ex- pansis in aére se librat: quin nulla velrara alarum agitatione de loco in locum provehitur velut fluxu aut lapsu quodum. Hinc Anglis Glead dicitur a verbo glide, quod |abi motu velut insensibili et tranquillo absque agitatione aliqua aut subsultu significat, ut flumen super planitiem sensim declivem. Ray. Syn. Meth. Av. p. 17, On the Groups of the Falconide. 315 included in any of the preceding stirpes, are united among them- _ selves, as well as separated from all the others, by the bill being lengthened, nearly straight at the base, and hooked only at the apex. Among them are to be found the most powerful birds of the family, and the most destructive in their habits ; their size and strength enabling them to extend their ravages even over the larger animals. They are deficient however in those powers of pursuing their prey upon the wing which belong to the more typi- cal groups; their flight, although powerful, not possessing that quickness in turning, and that agility in pursuit, which is exhibited in the Hawks and Falcons. They are thus confined in their ra- vages, in common with the other aberrant stirpes, to the prey which they can seize on the ground.* In the lengthened form of the bill they are allied to the family of Vudtwride, which immediately pre= cedes them in the general arrangement of the Raptorial order ; while they differ from them in external character by their heads being entirely covered with feathers. The present st¢irps consists of a considerable number of species, and is separated also into se- veral generick groups, differing partially in habits and external character ; some being confined to the land in quest of their prey, while others visit the waters for that purpose ; some again being characterized by a length of wing, while others, connecting the group with the short-winged Hawks, are noted for the shortness of that member. The whole however are sufficiently united among themselves by general habits and character, and may be denomi- * This striking difference in the habits of the Falconide was not passed over by the ancients, who were much more diligent observers of Nature than we are in general inclined to admit them to have been. Aristotle expressly refers to it : evn OF Tw sepanwy?— Oiaepoves VaArAnrAwy? oF ey yae auTwy Em! THs Yyns KAINLLVAY TURTOUTL THY TEplOTEpay nal ToVApTAYyoUT!, TETOLEVNS O’ov Sityya= vouoi® of Oem Oevdpov jaev n Tivos wAAOV uadnuevny Snpevovew, em! Ts yns ovens n peTewpou oun amrovras os Of ovT’ EML THs Yyns OUT’ Em aAAov HaTnAevns Suyyavouc iy AAG TETOAEVNY TEIPWVT CE AauPavev. De Animal. Lib. ix. ec. 24. Pliny equally distinguishes the family by these differences in habit. | Distinctio generum ex aviditate: alii non nisi ex terra rapiunt avem: alii non nisi circa arbores volitantem: alii sedentem in sublimi: alii, volitantem in aperto. Lib. x. cap. 8, 316 . Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. nated, according to the usual term applied to the most typical of the group, Stirps Aquilina or Races. These five groups into which the Falconide thus branch out, may be exhibited at one view in the following order. I arrange them according to their typical and aberrant characters, noticing those habits and peculiarities of form only, which are most con- spicuous, and most important in the general distribution of the family. Tyricat Groups. ({ Alze breves. 5 Stirps Accipitrina. Rostra brevia, preci- Hawks. pue dentata. Prada aéria. Pees Falconina. (Ale longe. FALCcoNs. ABERRANT Groups. (Rostra a basi adunca. §Stirps Buteonina. Ale longe. BuZZARDS. Stirps Milvina. Rostra a basi adunca. Rostra longa, aut sub- Cauda furcata. Ale longa, haud dentata.¢{ —_ longissime. See Prada terrestris. Rostra ad apicem solum adunca. Stirps Aquilina. * Ale longe. EAGLES. lL ** Ale breves. When we descend into. the details of any group, which is subdi- vided, like that before us, into s¢irpes returning into themselves, it is of little consequence at which subdivision we commence our examination. Forming a circular series, they exhibit no natural break upon which we can fix as a regular land-mark to start from, It is adviseable, nevertheless, to have some uniform plan of pro- ceeding ; and the most obvious, and perhaps preferable mode ap-= pears to be that of our commencing our inquiries with the first of the typical stirpes; and it is indeed, I believe, the usual course adopted. As this is however a mere matter of option, and depends much on the particular views in which individuals are accustomed to conduct their researches, I am more willing to adopt the mode of giving my attention in the first setting out to that extreme sub- division of any group which is immediately connected with the On the Groups of the Falconide. 317 group that precedes it. I thus enter upon every group at the point where it joins that from which I have parted: I thence gra- dually ascend to the most typical division of it, which thus be- comes placed in the centre; and thence I finally descend in order to the other extreme. In pursuing this uniform mode of proceed- ing, when I find a group complete in its general outlines, or con- sisting of five subdivisions returning into themselves, the subdivision which I call the Ist, naming it such only with reference to the order in which I examine it, is always that which is united with the group that went before: the 3rd contains the type par excellence : and the 4th is that which forms the link of connexion between the present group and that which succeeds. The 2nd and 3rd will thus be the normal subdivisions ; the 4th, 5th and 1st the aber- rant. In the more extensive groups of natural history which I have examined with respect to their affinities, and in which natural character is sufficiently strong to afford sure grounds for distribu- tion, this disposition invariably appears to me to prevail. This therefore is the order in which I shall observe upon the birds at present before us, and to which, for the sake of uniformity, I shall adhere in my future examinations. §. 1. Stirps Aquilina. Eacuts. The long bills of the Vultures, straight at the base, and hooked only at the apex, are carried on to the Falconide, from which they are separated by.the sufficiently distinctive external character of having the head, neck, and cheeks more or less naked. As how- ever the extremes of every group participate in some measure in the characters of those that approach it, we must not be surprised at finding species appertaining to each of these two families, which it is difficult to arrange decidedly on either side. The naked cheeks of the Vultures are thus observable in a few Birds of Prey, which have been almost universally allowed to belong to the Eagles, and have particularly been ranked as such by their earlier describers, who having had the opportunity of observing their living manners may be supposed to have been the best judges of their natural affi- nities. In these extreme cases every naturalist takes that side of 318 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. the question which is most consonant to his peculiar views, and which best accords with the predominance of those characters on which he chiefly depends for distinction between his groups. Founding thus the line of demarcation between the Vulturide and the Falconide on the nakedness of the head and cheeks, M. Vieillot has united all the birds of which I speak with the former family: while M. Cuvier, on the other hand, has left them among the latter, forming his decision chiefly on their general appearance and habits. In the present state of the question I feel no hesita- tion in agreeing with M. Cuvier, and in retaining these birds in their original station, until at least more decided information than we can as yet obtain of them, enables us to speak with more confi- dence. We are furnished with an additional reason for this deci- sion in the circumstance of these birds possessing this nakedness about the head in the adult state only; when young, their whole head is covered with feathers.* This fact, which has been ascer- tained to be the case at least in some species, evinces the gradual manner in which nature deserts any particular character or mode of formation. The birds before us thus pass without any abrupt- ness into the Eagles, the full characters of which they possess in their earliest age. I shall adhere to the generick titles given to them by M. Vieillot, who appears to have been the first to have characterized them. The group of the Fulconid@ that seems nearest to the Vultures is the genus IsycrTer, Vieill. which is distinguished by the nakedness of its cheeks, throat, and crop. To this character M. Vieillot has added those of its bill being convex above ; its. inferiour mandible notched near the end, and somewhat pointed ; its cere smooth ; and its nails pointed, The type of the genus is the F. aquilinus, Gmel., the Petit digle | * Tl est certain que dans les jeunes Caracaras noirs, comme dans les jeunes du Chimachima, toute la tete est converte de plumes, et que le tour des yeux est l’unique partie qui soit nue. La nudité de la tete augmente avec l’age. Temm. Art. Falco aterrimus, P\, Col. 37. On the Groups of the Falconide. 319 @ Amerique of M. Buffon.* I believe this species still stands sin- gle in the genus. Closely allied to Ibycter appears Dartrius, Vieill. founded upon a new species from Brazil, which the same authour has denominated D. ater, and which he describes as differing from the last only in the lower mandible being obtuse, instead of pointed, and the cere being covered with hairs instead of being smooth. He particularizes also the orbits of the eyes only, and not the cheeks, as being naked, together with the throat and crop. It has been frequently objected to M. Vieillot’s views of arrangement, that he founds his genera upon very minute and unimportant points of dis- tinction. Although strongly inclined to the admission of all such genera as are founded upon ostensible characters, for reasons which I have stated at large elsewheret, especially in such groups as from their extent require subdivision, I am nevertheless of opinion that great caution should be observed in introducing genera, which em- brace but one species ; such only being admissible as are decidedly separated by important characters. One great object aimed at in the subdivision of a numerous group is the relief which is afforded the student in his search after species, by the number of those belonging to each genus being lessened. But no such relief is gained where only a single species is cut off from the original group, the points of examination being still the same in number ; the examination of a new generick character being substituted for that of the original specifick one. How far the two preceding genera of M. Vieillot are sufficiently distinct from each other, or from the remainder of the naked-cheeked Eagles it is not for me to hazard an opinion, without the opportunity of more accurate examination of the birds than is at present within our power, and a more perfect knowledge of them, than a mere description affords us. It would appear however that one group, at least, that of Ibycter, is suffi- ciently distinguished from the other Falconide with the naked cheeks, by the difference in its food and habits. ‘The accounts * Pl. Enl. 417. Gal. des Ois. pl. 6. t+ Zool. Journal, No. II. p. 180. 320 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. which have reached Europe of its mild and gentle manners, and vegetable food, have even induced some naturalists to refer it to the Gallinaceous Birds. I have strong doubts indeed whether the birds that compose this genus may not belong to quite a distinct station from the present, and be referable to one of those groups which I have elsewhere observed to be wanting among the Birds of Prey, to perfect that chain of affinities which is to be found complete in all the other Orders. It is impossible, however, at present, to come to any decision on the subject; while our mate- rials for classification are so scanty, the most that is in our power is to conjecture the place which more perfect information will enable us to assign any group hereafter. For the present, we may leave the genera before us in that situation between the Vul- turide and Falconide, which they have hitherto been generally supposed to fill. The remaining species of the Eagles, with naked cheeks, have been included under the title of Potysorvs, Vieill. which agrees with the latter of the two preceding genera in the cere being covered with hairs, and the under mandible obtuse : but differs from both, according to M. Vieillot, in the same man- dible being entire, the face alone naked, the culmen of the bill compressed instead of convex, and the nails nearly blunt. The type of the genus isthe F. Braziliensis of Linnzus, the Caracara of M. Buffon. F. Nove Salandiw, Lath. also belongs to this genus, to which M. Temminck has also referred F. degener, Ill. We pass from the Eagles that form the foregoing groups, under the guidance of M. Cuvier, to the Fishing Eagles of the old Con- tinent ; the first of which that we may particularize is the genus Pannion, Sav. This group presents us with a decidedly characteristick difference — from all the other species of the family, except those of Elanus, which I shall mention hereafter, in the internal part of the nails being rounded instead of grooved. ‘The culmen of the bill is also more broad than usual, and much rounded. The toes are Q On the Groups of the Falconida. 521 entirely separated ; and the farsi are covered with strong, promi- nent, and thickly reticulated scales.* The well-known Osprey of our coasts, F’. haliwetus, Linn., is the type of the genus to which the valuable researches of Dr. Horsfield, in Java, have added a second species, P. Ichthywetus.t In this species, however, which agrees with Pandion in the more essential characters, we find a strong approximation to the following genus Haliwetus. Its bill is more compressed than that of Pandion, its acrotarsia are scu- tellated, and the fourth quill feather, as in Haliwetus, is the long- est. It thus stands osculant between the two groups. The last group of the Fishing Eagles is comprised in the genus Haizertus, Sav. which differs from Pandion in the structure of the nails, and the more compressed culmen of the bill. The ¢arst also differ in having the acrotarsza scutellated ; they are also feathered half-way below the knee. The toes, like those of the last are entirely se- parated, and the outward versatile. Ourcommon Sea Eagle, F. leucocephalus, Linn,, affords the type of the genus, to which M. Cuvier has added F’. Pondicerianus, Gmel. F’. blagrus, F. vocifer, and F’. vuliurinus of M. Daudin. Some species lately described, * The scales that cover the acrotarsium will be found to form a very distin- guishing character among the Falconid@. In some groups the acrotarsia are scutellated, or covered with transverse and nearly quadrate scales, each of which extends entirely across them. In others they are reticulated or covered with smaller scales, chiefly hexagonal, that run intoeach other in a kind of network, leaving two or more on a line infront. I take this opportunity of stating that in the present sketch I pass over many other characters of some importance,that may be referred to in illustrating these groups, such as the structure of the acro- podium, pelma, acrodactylum, hypodactylum, &c. with many others. The diffi- culty of procuring subjects for examination, and in sufficiently good condition to enable me to judge of these minuter characters, prevents me at present from referring to them at all, when I can not refer with precision. I hope the future observation of naturalists who have the opportunity of accurate examination, may be directed to these and similar characteristick marks of distinction. They will be found, I make no doubt, of singular service in illustrating the groups of Ornithology. + Horse. Linn. Transactions, xili. Voto. 7s 322 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. which I shall particularize hereafter, are also to be united to this group. Upon leaving the Fishing Eagles, and entering upon those which feed upon land, we meet with Circ#etus, Vieill. a genus founded upon the well-known Jean le blanc of the European Continent, I. brachydactylus, Linn. Here we find the exteriour toe united to the middle by a short membrane, which is the case indeed in the greater portion of the family, while in the two latter genera the toes are all divided to the origin, The toes themselves also are considerably shorter than in general. The acrotarsia are reticulated, and the nares suboval and elongated. Proceeding in the order of affinity, we approach the trne AguiLa, Auct. in which the predominant mark of distinction is the ¢arsi being feathered to the toes. The culmen of the bill appears also to differ from that of the other Eagles in being more angular. ‘The species A. heliaca,* Sav. F. chryseetos, Lion., F. nevius, Linn., &. belli- cosus, Daud, with some others lately made known to us, beieng to - the group, which contains the most powerful birds in the family. We now leave the Hagles, which are distinguished by their long wings, and enter upon the groups of the same séirps, which differ from them in the shortness of those members. Of these the most nearly allied to the true Aquila appears to be the IIarpyia, Cuv. which equals that genus in size and powers of body. Its farsi are * M. Savigny appears to be the first who separated this species from the Golden Eagle, and at the same time characterized and named it as above. I really see no reason why his name should be removed to make way for that of imperialis, which M. Temminck has proposed for it. Neither can I see the pro- priety of giving up the old-established title of chrys@etos, for the well-known Golden Eagle, in order to adopt the modern denomination of regalis, which the same distinguished naturalist would affix to it. Where an objection lies to an established name, it may be expedient to alter it; but in the present cases, any change seems to me likely to produce confusion,without any assignable mo- tive. On the Groups of the Falconide. 323 strong, thick, partly plumed, with scutellated acrotarsia. The nares are elongated, apparently similunar, and placed transversely on the cere. ‘The upper mandible seems to have a notch some- what analogous to that of the true Falcons. Its type is the FP. imperialis * of Dr. Shaw. The genus Morpunus, Cuv. differs from the latter in its more slender, lengthened and scu- tellated tarsi, and the comparative weakness of its toes. It is separated into two sections as the farsi are plumed or otherwise : among the former M. Cuvier arranges F. occipitalis, Daud. I’. ornatus, Daud. F. albescens, Daud. F. maculosa, Vieill. ; among the latter F. Guianensis. Daud., and F-. uribitinga, Linn. M. Vieillot’s genus Spizaetus corresponds with this group. M. Cuvier has separated another group from the rest of the short winged Eagles under the generick name of Cyminpis, Cuv. which is distinguished by their short, half plumed, and reticu- lated tarsi, and more particularly by their nostrils being nearly closed, and bearing the appearance of a narrow slit, or channel. Its type is the F. Cayennensis, Gmel. to which M. Temminck has lately added F. hamatus, Ll., and F. uncinatus, Temm. * Much confusion has arisen as to the synonyms of this bird, and even as to the characters of the genus. M. Cuvier says that the tarsi are reticulated, and M. Vieillot that the nares are round. Neither of these characters agree with those of the ‘* aigle destructeur de Daudin” to which bird both of these gentlemen refer as their type. The short description above is drawn from the figures of F. destructor given by M. Temminck in his ‘‘ Planches Coloriés,” [pl. 14.] and by Mr. Swainson in his “* Zoology of Mexico.” All these diffi- culties however will be shortly cleared away by the description of the bird from a living specimen, which has been for some time in fine condition in the gardens of the Horticultural Society. I have been favoured with a sight of this bird by the kindness of my friend Mr. Sabine; but Iam restricted from making any reference to it, that might amend the above imperfect description, in consequence of that gentleman having informed me that he is about to describe the bird himself. I rejoice that it has got into such good hands, and from the excellent opportunity that occurs of observing its manners and essen- tial characters, I anticipate much interesting and scientifick intelligence on one of the most important points in the economy of the Falconide. y 2 o 4 394 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. It is among these short winged Eagles that the greatest diffi- culty prevails in deciding on their immediate affinities. Being for the most part extra-European, and not within the reach of general examination, their manners also being but little noted, and the characters on which we depend for forming our decision respect- ing their affinities being for the most part passed over in the descriptions given of them, it is only by conjecture that we can assign them a place in the general arrangement. Of this nature is the genus Asturina, Vieill. which seems by its short wings, and bill straight at the base, to belong to the groups now before us; and to owe its generick name and distinction chiefly to the form of its nares, which ac- cording to M. Vieillot, are lunulated. Its ¢arsi also are short and somewhat slender. It contains 4. cinerea, Vieill. a species from Guiana. . The same difficulty extends to several other described species of the Falconide, which appear to me to belong to the group before us of short winged Eagles, although they have been assign- ed a different locality by the authours who have described them. Among these is the F. Bacha, Daud. [Le Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 15.] which has been generally ranked with the Buzzards. Its short wings atid lengthened bill however seem rather to bring it among the present group of the Hagles, and its habits as described to me by my. friend Dr. Horsfield, who had an opportunity of closely observing them in the Island of Java, where the birds are by no means uncommon, do not in any respect correspond with those of the Buzzard tribe. I would place it, together with F. albidus, Cuv. [P1!. Col. 19.] near those species of the genus Cy- mindis which are distinguished by the reticulated acrotarsia, if not in that genus itself. I have indeed some doubts whether most of the short winged Falconide at present placed among the Buz zards, such as F. buson, Daud., I’. tachiro, Daud., F. pecilo- notus, Cuv. &c. may not be more properly removed to a situation between the short winged Eagles and the Hawks, with both of which they seem to have a considerable affinity. There is another group which also appears allied to the present, On the Groups of the Falconide. 325 distinguished by a rather feeble and elongated bill, short wings, and slender, lengthened ¢arsi, feathered to the toes. It includes the F. Limneetus, Horsf. [ Zool. Res, No. 6. Pl. Col. 134.] FF. niveus, Temm. { Pl. Col. 127.] and I’. atricapilius, Cuv. [PI. Col. 79.] These appear to be strongly allied, if not to appertain, to the before mentioned genus Morphnus. F. tyrannus, Pr. Max. [ Pl. Col. 73.] bears a strong similitude also to the same group, though partially differing in external characters. But on these and similar affinities I do not wish at present to dwell, until a more general examination of the birds themselves, brought to- gether and accurately compared with each other, and a more in- timate acquaintance with their habits, affords more solid grounds than mere conjecture for forming a decision. §. 2. Stirps Accipitrina. Hawks. The short wings of the last groups lead us to the present division of Hawks, all of whom, a considerably extensive tribe, are characterized by their wings extending no further than two thirds of the extent of their tail. The fourth quill feather is the longest, the first, second, and third, gradually exceeding each other in length. In this division we may observe that the upper mandible, though not furnished with distinct teeth like the true Falcons, has the festoon or prominence, that generally supplies its place, more strong and angular than is usual among these tribes. Yn some of the Accépitres this is particularly distinguishable.* The stirps we have just quitted, includes all the birds of the present family, in which the beak is straight at the base, and hooked only at the apex. We now enter upon the first of those groups where the bill is curved from the base, a character that extends through the remainder of the Falconidw. It may be observed that this character which thus separates the family into two departments, was equally noticed as a mark of distinction * M. Temminck perhaps goes too far in calling this festoon ‘* une dent tres marquée.” It is sufficiently strongly marked however to show an affinity to the typical group of the family, 326 Mr, Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. between the species known to the ancients. Pliny apparently referring to it as a line of demarcation between them, divides the group into his two departments of Aquile and Accipitres. It is from adopting the same views respecting the family, that M. Bris- son instituted his two leading divisions, to which he assigned cor- responding denominations. The Hawks being a numerous group, it seems adviseable to adopt such divisions in arranging them, as will lessen the number of species in each. ‘They have generally been included in one genus, to which a variety of names has been given.* But a suffi- ciently characteristick difference may be discerned in the compa- rative elevation of their fars?, and in the structure of the acro- tarsia. Three divisions, which have been pointed out by M. Cuvier, may in this manner be instituted. The first of these, Depa ion, Sav. may be distinguished from the others by its ¢arsz, strong and of moderate length, being covered with reticulated scales. Of this genus the American species F. cachinnans, Linn. and F. me- lanops, Lath. form the type, according to M. Cuvier. M. Savigny has conferred the title of Dedalion upon the whole of this stirps, and his name, which cannot be retained for the whole, may be adopted for the present division of it. The second division of the present s¢irps is the genus Astur, Bechst. a title which has been applied to the whole group, but which may be confined to those whose tarsi, moderate in length, haye their acrotarsiascutellated, or covered with broad and even scales. Our European species, I. palumbarius, Linn. may be considered the type of this genus; to which may be added F. Nove Hol- landie, Lath., and a considerable number of corresponding species from every quarter of the globe. The third genus of the Hawks includes those whose tarsi are considerably elevated, slender, and like the last scutellated. The scales are thin and smooth, and generally so imperceptibly united * Tt has been called Astur, Dedalion, Sparvius, &e. On the Groups of the Falconide. 327 to each other as to give the appearance of but one continued covering to the acrotarsitum. ‘To these I would restore the old title by which they were so long distinguished of Accipiter, Auct. and which having been adopted by Ray and Brisson, appears to have a prior right in designating the group to the names bestowed on it by modern naturalists. It corresponds with the genus Nisus of M. Cuvier. Our common Sparrow hawk, Accipiter fringil- larius* of Ray, is the type of the genus, to which may be added many corresponding species, which do not seem to have any limits to their geographical distribution. There are some species which seem to be allied to this stirps and to be intermediate between it, and the succeeding stirps of Falcons, which, from some peculiarities of character, cannot well be appended to any established genus. They possess a shortness of wing which would incline us to refer them to some of the present groups: but their upper mandible strongly and doubly dentated, presents a character that will not admit of their being included in any of the foregoing genera in which the mandibles are entire, or where the place of the tooth is supplied by a rounded pro- minence. These species I should have wished if possible to have arranged in one genus: but they are found to differ in essential points, which bring them respectively within the pale of the two conterminous s¢irpes now under consideration. And although I do not in general wish to encrease the number of genera belong- ing to the present family, until we have attained a more extensive and accurate knowledge of the species, I feel obliged for the sake of perspicuity to adopt the following genus, of which the type is the F. bidentatus, Lath. Harpacus. The essential characteristick of this group is the double tooth on both the upper and lower mandible. The wings, which cor- respond with those of the other Hawks, in being one third shorter * I know not why this term should have been altered into that of Nisus: the bird into which the father of Scylla was changed was certainly a fishing Eagle. See Pennant, Brit. Zool. Vol. I, p. 208. Ed. 8vo. Ovip. Met. Lib. 8, 528 Mr. Vigors’s Skelches in Ornithology. than the tail, have the third and fourth quill feathers, which are the longest, of equal length. The ¢arsi are of moderate length and strength, and have the acrotarsia scutellated as in the latter groups of the present stirps. The nares are of a semicircular form, and the cere is naked. The F. Diodon of M. 'Temminck is to be referred to this genus. §. 3. Stirps Falconina. Faucons. Closely allied to the preceding genus by the double tooth on its upper mandible, and its short wings, is another group for which I shall propose the name of Terax,* a common term applied to many of the Falconide, and which has recently been conferred on the genus Accipiter, but certainly withont attention to the original designation of that group. Who- ever has seen that beautiful species, the smallest of its race, F’. cerulescens, Litn., now rendered familiar to us by the accurate and splendid illustrations of Dr. Horsfield, will at once acknow- Jedge its separation from every other established genus of the family. Its upper mandible is strongly and sharply bidentated, as in Harpagus, but the under mandible is simply notched, as in the true Falcons. Its wings, shorter than the tail, differ also from those of Harpagus, in having the second quill feather the longest, thus again establishing the affinity of the genus to the falcons. The tarsi are moderate, and the acrotarsia scutellated as in the latter groups of the Hawks. From its thus possessing * My friend Dr. Leach has adopted this term for the group to which I would restore the name of Accipiter, and has named the A. fringillarius in the ~ Collection of British Birds belonging to the British Museum accordingly. 1 should certainly subscribe to his views in this instance, were I not satisfied that the term dccipiter had been already attached to that group, and that ispz& had been applied by Aristotle not only to our Sparrow Hawk, but to the greater part of the short billed Falconide. Aristotle in fact appears to have divided the family into the three grand divisions of @&T0l, iepanes, and i*T1yot, of which he also specifies the subdivisions. The ispaxes comprise all our Falconide which belong to the stirpes of Hawks, Falcons, and Buzzards. On the Groups of the Falconide. 329 characters in common with both stirpes, it is difficult to say to which we should refer it. But I prefer placing it in its present situation on account of the length of the second quill feather, a peculiarity which distinguishes the true Falcons, and gives a strik- ing character to their flight. Placed however at the extremity of the division, it preserves its affinity with those that went before. The greater portion of the present s¢irps is included under the genus Fatco, Auct. which comprises the typical species of the family. The upper man- dible of this group is armed with a strong angular tooth; the lower is notched near the extremity. The nares are rounded. The wings are for the most part as long as the tail, the second quill feathers being invariably the longest. The first and second quill feathers are also distinguished by an abrupt emargination on the inner web, near the extremity. In some species, asin F’. pere- grinus, the emargination of the second quill feather is not so abrupt as in others. But in all the species of the true Falcons that have come under my examination, this emargination of the first quill feather at least is strongly apparent. The ¢ars¢ are moderate in length and strength, and have the acrotarsia reticulated. Our European species, F’. peregrinus, Linn. F. subbuteo, Linn. F. esalon, Linn. F. rujfipes, Bechst. are readily distinguished as be- longing to this typical genus. Some species belonging to the group have the wings somewhat shorter than the tail, which in con- junction with Jerax thus evince a gradual series of affinity be- tween the short and long winged tribes. Among these we may distinguish PF’. tinnunculus, Linn. F. rupicolus, Daud. * with some corresponding species. M. Cuvier has separated the F. Islandicus, Lath., from the rest of the true Falcons, under the generick title of Hierofalco, which * There seem to be no limits affixed to the geographical distribution of the true Falcons. This indeed appears generally the case in the larger groups of this family. The naked cheeked Falconide alone seem to be confined to the southern parts of the New World, and to_4ustralasia, if we are to refer F. Nove Zelandi@ of Dr. Latham to the genus Polyborus according to M. Temminck’s opinion. But the remaining groups appear to be dispersed in every division of the globe. ; 330 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. he characterizes as possessing no tooth on the upper mandible, but a rounded prominence in the centre, and in which he observes that the wings considerably fall short of the tail in length. With all due respect to the authority of that distinguished naturalist, whose exertions have so much enhanced the value of science, I cannot acquiesce in his opinion respecting the characters of this bird. I have examples at this moment before me of the Jerfalcon in its different stages of growth, and in none do I perceive any material difference between its bill and that of the true Falcons. Although anxious for the establishment of every such division, as may simplify the arrangement of extensive groups, I feel adverse to the admission of one, which seems to possess no distinguishing character, but what is purely specifick.* §. 4. Stirps Buteonina. Buzzarps. The fourth division of the Falconidw, or that of the Buzzards, agrees with the latter in the length of the wings, and the bill being bent from the base. It is distinguished from it by a weaker and somewhat more elongated bill, by the third or fourth quill feather being the longest, and more particularly by the absence of a tooth on the upper mandible. A gradation of affinities seems however, * T feel much hesitation in advancing the above opinion, not merely on account of the known accuracy of the distinguished naturalist who has sepa- rated the group, but on account of some facts that have lately come to my knowledge. In the Briti-h Museum is a specimen of the F. Islandicus, in which the wpper mandible accords exactly with M. Cuvier’s description ;— ‘*¢ i] n’a qu'un feston comme celui des ignobles.”’ In several lately arrived specimens however from the Arctick regions in the same collection, the tooth is found. We may observe that in the ‘ Planches Enluminées,” one of the figures to which M. Cuvier refers [pl]. 210] is, as he describes, without a tooth: the acrotarsia also are scuiellated, which is not the case in our Jerfalcon. The second figure to which he refers [ p]. 440] has the rudiments only of the tooth with the legs feathered to the toes; the third [p]. 462] has the tooth distinctly marked. Is it possible that there are two species? This is a point which requires elucidation. I cannot think that the character itself is variable, or that M. Cuvier would have adopted one which must have been known to him as such, even from the plates. In no specimen of a true Falcon have I seen the slightest alteration in the structure of the tooth except by accident. On the Groups of the Falconide. 331 as usual, to soften down these differences, and we perceive in the mandibles of the genus Icrrnza, Vieill. an approximation to the teeth of the Falcons. This genusis founded upon the Milan Cresserelle of M. Vieillot, and exhibits a strong and short bill, the upper mandible of which is somewhat angularly festooned, and the under distinctly notched. The nares are rounded as in the Falcons ; the tarsi are rather short, and feathered below the knees, and the acrofarséa scutellated. The wings are of con- siderable length, extending far beyond the tail, a character which has induced M. Vieillot and others to place this bird near the Kites. Its strong affinity, however, to the last Stirps, of which it possesses so many of the characteristicks, inclines me to assign it its present situation. In manners it seems also to approach the Fal- cons. If we consider the Misstsippi Kite of Mr. Wilson* to belong to the present group of M. Vieillot, of which I have little doubt, we must attribute to the bird before us, judging from the in- teresting description in the American Ornithology, much of those spirited and generous qualities which we admire in the typical groups of the family.t The genus Circus, Auct. exhibits still a slight approximation to the last groups in the struc- * Amer. Orn. pl. 25. f. 3. + M. Temminck, in speaking of the Harpagus bidentatus (pl. col. 38.] ob- serves, that the apparent anomaly of the double tooth is not confined to that species, but is found in some undescribed Buzzards, and more particularly in a new species allied to Pernis. These birds will most probably come into the present situation, and encrease the number of those groups which, with Ictinia, form the intervening bond of union between the true Falcons and the Buzzards. He also mentions some birds that he is about to describe, with the bill and wings of the Hawks, but with some other strong characters of the Falcons. These again will add to the number of those intervening groups that have been already seen to connect those two stirpes. M.'Temminck subjoins to these remarks, “ les feseurs de genres nouveaux, trouvent ici des entraves contraires a leurs vues strictement methodiques.” I cannot think so. Every discovery of these singular affinities rather evinces the necessity of the subdi- visions that are every day taking place. Indeed the valuable observations of that distinguished naturalist himself afford us the strongest proof of the just- ness of the modern views, against which he so expressly sets his face. 332 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. ture of the upper mandible, which has a rounded protuberance to- _ wards the middle similar to that of the Hawks. They are distin- | guished from the rest of the Buzzards by their elevated and slender tarsi, which are covered with feathers for some space below the © knee, and of which the acroéarsia are scutellated. The nares are suboval, and transverse on the cere. And the third quill feathers are the longest. It includes the European species, fF. eruginosus, Aldrov. and F. pygargus, Linn. to which may be added F. acolz, Daud. F. melanoleucos, Daud. together with some newly described species. The present s¢irps of Buzzards is that which ofall the alconide approaches nearest tu the family of the Strigide. In their dull and slothful habits, their heavy flight, and indeed their whole appear- ance, these contiguous groups evince a general resemblance that in- dicates a corresponding inferiority in those qualities which belong to the Birds of Prey. The soft and loose texture of the plumage of both presents a similar affinity. The genus immediately before us furnishes us with a still further, and more intimate, point of re- semblance. ‘The feathers that cover the cheeks and ears form a sort of rounded collar that rises on each side of the face ; thus exhi- biting a conformity to the disk or circular erection of the face fea- thers so conspicuous in the Owls. From the Buzzards properly so called a group has been sepanned under the denomination of Pernis, Cuv. which is distinguished by the singular character of the dorum, that surrounds the eye, being covered with feathers, instead of being naked as in the other Falconide, or furnished only with hairs. In other respects also, the genus differs from that of Buteo which fol- lows. Its acrotarsia are reticulated, and like Circus, it has the third quill feather the longest. The nares are similar to those of Buteo. Our Honey Buzzard, F. apivorus, Linn., and a corres- ponding species from Java, EF. ptilorynchus, Temm., form the typical species of this genus. The trne Buzzards known by their comparatively feeble bill, their short éars?, and scutellated acrotarsia, are comprised in the genus On the Groups of the Falconidw. 333 Burro, Auct. Their zares are round, and their fourth quill feather the longest. Their ¢arsi are either plumed to the toes or half way covered with feathers. Of those whose ¢arst are completely feathered, the booted Falcon of our cabinets, F’. dagopus, Linn. presents the type; to which F. desertorum, Daud. appears also to appertain: of those birds whose farsi are but half plumed,’ our common Buz- zard, B. vulgaris, Auct., F. buteo, Linn. affords a familiar exam- ple. The genusis very numerous in species, and the form is very generally to be observed over the globe. §. 5. Stirps Milvina. Kites. We have now arrived at the last division of the family, which is nearly allied to that immediately preceding in habits and general conformation; but which exhibits a sufficiently characteristick dif- ference in the length of the wings, and the forked structure of the tail. These characters, as I have before observed, separate the Kites from all the other Raptorial Birds by the peculiar power and gracefulness which they confer upon their flight. They are divided into two genera, as follows. The first, the genus ELANus, Sav. is known by its long wings, of which the second quill feather is the longest, its half-plumed and reticulated ¢arsz, its toes entirely separated, its cere covered, and its nails large and pointed. The latter also, with the exception of the middle nail, are rounded underneath, as in the genus Pandion. . melanopterus, Daud. forms the type, to which we may add F. furcatus, Linn., and F. Riocourii, Vieill. In these last species, however, the tail is con- siderably more forked than in the former, and the wngues do not exhibit the singular roundness underneath, discoverable in E. melanopterus.* The genus may thus be separated for the present into two sections. * I infer this circumstance from the silence of M.M. Wilson and Temminck on the subject, who would certainly have pointed out so striking a charac- ter, if it existed in the bird. A specimen of E. Riocourii, in the British Mu- seum, does not appear to possess the character, but the ungues are so muti- lated that nothing decisive can be determined respecting them. 334 Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. The true Mitvus, Auct. is distinguished from the last genus by the fourth quill feather being the longest, by the acrotarsia being scutellated, and the exteriour toe united to the middle by a membrane. It contains the European species, M. ictinus, Sav. (F. Milvus, Linn.) and F. ater, Linn. Although the species of this genus are noted for a feeble bill, it may be observed that it is not so much hent at the base, as in the typical species of the family, but exhibits somewhat of the length and straightness that characterize the bill of the Eagles. Some of the extremes of these last birds are found to approach the present séirps also in form and organization. ‘The whole of those which in South America are known under the name of Caracara, from their singular cry, and which are included in the earliest genera of this arrangement, present a bill much weaker than that of the typical Hagles, and nearly meeting the bill of the Kites. We find indeed that the type of the genus Polyborus was described by Ray as Milous Braziliensis,* and with similar deno- minations by others of the earlier writers : nor has the affinity been less noticed by our later naturalists. +1 do not, however, feel suffi- ciently satisfied with respect to the immediate affinities by which these two stirpes are connected. We know too little of the birds that form the extreme groups of the Eagles to speak of them with * Milvus Braziliensis, Caracara dictus. Ray. Syn. Method. Ay. p.17. M. Brisson calls this bird Circus Braziliensis. + M. Temminck has pointed out this affinity of the Caracaras to the Kites, as well as that which they exhibit to the Vultures; at the same time stating the difficulty which these double affinities impose upon him. “Il se presente quelques difficultés dans cet arrangement: elles naissant des formes exteri- eures de ces Caracaras, qui les associent aux Milans et aux Buses, ainsi que du choix decidé que certaines especes montrent sur les charognes ; ce qui les rapprocherait des Vautours et des Cathartes, s’ils n’etaient en meme temps en- tomophages, et reptilivores.’” Temm. Art. Falco aterrimus, Pl. Col. 37. We have already seen how these groups preserve their affinities at once to the Vul- tures, the Eagles, and the Kites. It is one of the greatest beauties of that cir- cular disposition which is so generally observed to prevail throughout nature, that it removes those difficulties that stand in the way of the naturalist, and explains those apparent anomalies, that would otherwise tend to interrupt his progress. On the Groups of the Falconide. 335 any pretensions to precision; and at present I shall content my- self with referring only to the general approximation that appears toexist between them. Ata future day I hope to be able to say something more decisive. For the clearer explanation of the mode in which the foregoing groups appear to be distributed, I shall draw out the following tabular arrangement, which exhibits at one view their leading cha- racters. In this table I particularize those peculiarities only which chiefly serve to distinguish them from each other, without entering into their minuter characters. These indeed are difficult to be Jaid hold of, while we have so few subjects for examination, and are obliged to rely so much upon the figures and descriptions of others. The characters, it is also to be observed, are those of the most typical of each group. Fam. Faucontp”.* Leach. Caput plumosum. Rostrum forte, aduncum, basi cerigerum. Nares \aterales, in ceromate posite, plus aut minus rotundate, aperte. Digiti externi precipue mediis connexi. Ungues validi, acutissimi, maxime incurvi, retractiles.t * The British species are distinguished in the following table by Italicks. + The retractile power of the nails consists in the capability of elevating them at pleasure, (not of withdrawing them entirely within the skin as in some of the analogous Carnivora) by which means they avoid all contact with the ground or other substances which might destroy the sharpness so necessary, to them in seizing their prey; ‘‘c’est a dire,” says M. Savigny, ‘‘ pouvant se replier spontanément sur les penultimes phalanges.’’ The analogical charac- ter thus existing between different departments of the animal world has afforded one of those beautiful illustrations, with which an accurate observation of na- ture furnishes, at times, the philosopher, in his delineations of other branches of science. The following adaptationof these external qualities of animals to the powers of the mind is singularly appropriate, and conclusive. Osmep yap Ob HETOL HAL OF AEOYTES EV Tw TEPITATEW SUSTPEDOUSIY EISW TBS OVUY AS, We LAN THY aKny QUT UV Kor Thy ouTnTa naTaTpiwsiW, ETW TO MoAoTpaymov Te Dirouabes anny Tie xa Sows vopiCovres EXE, [AN HUT AVAAISHWLEY, nd amauPrvvwrev ev Tos XEpistois, PuLuTARcH. de Curiosate. Opera, Vol. 8. p. 67. Ed. Reiske. 336 Sat ee ee ee hae a Rostrum longum ad api- cem so- lum ad- uncum. Remex Atus pre- cipue longissi- mus, a) longe. oe Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. §.1. Stirps Aquilina. Rostrum superne convex- um. Mandibula inferior ad aquilinus. Gmel. P| apicem emarginata, sub- _ vies Enl.417. Nat. Mis acuta. \Coroma nudum. Mas eee — pl. 485. Gal. de, le, Gula, Jugulum, implu- Ois. pl. 16. mes. Ungues acuti. Rostrum superne convex- um. Mandibula inferior subtus angulosa, ad apicem : ater Vieill. Pl. Co! emarginata, obtusa, Cero- DArptrius.—Vieill. 387. Gal. des Ois ma pilisaspersum. Orbite, plawe Gula, Jugulum implumes. Ungues acuti. Rostrum superne com- ({ Braziliensis. Ray. pressum. Mandibula infe- | Ga). des Ois pl. i rior integra, obtusa. Cero- ite degener. Zi. mua hispidum, grande. Ma- eee ee Nove Zelandie. le, et gula implumes. | Lath. Syn. p. pl. Jugulum lanosum. L col. 192. juv. 224 Rostrum superne rotun- halswet Auct ae datum. Ceroma hispidum. [ halietus.. Auets Nares lunulate, ad margi- Enl. 414. Wils nem superiorem membra- nacee. Tarsi nudi. Acro- tarsia rigide squamosa, re- ticulata. Digiti liberi, ex- ternus versatilis. Ungues equales, snbtus rotundati. Americanus. Veeili L Remex 2dus longissimus. | leucocephalus. Linn. Gal. des Ois. pl. 11 Wils. Am. Orn. p SYBie Uc Ichthyzetus. Horsf PANDION.—Sav. Pl. Enl. 411. juy, 112. 415. Wils Am. Orn. pl. 36. Pondicerianus. Lath Pl). Enl. 416. Rostrum superne convex- blagrus. Daud. Li um. Wares lunulate,trans- Vaill. Ois. d’Afr | verse. Ceroma subhispi- ia dum. Tarsi semiplumati. HALImETUS.—Sav. < vocifer. Daud. Li Acrotarsiascutellata. Digiti Vaill. Ois. d’ Afr liberi, externus versatilis. 1. 4. Ungues inequales. vulturinus. Daud. Li Vaill. Ois. d’ Afr pl. 6. macei. Cuv. P]. Col 8, juv. 223. Rostrum superne convex- leucogaster. Lath. um. ares lunulate. Ce- lL Pl. Col. 49. roma subhispidum. Tarsé elongati nudi. Acrotarsia brachydactylus. Aue | reticulata. Digiti breves: Pl. Enl. 413. externus cum medio ad ba- cinereus. Vieill. Gal, | sin connexus. Ungues bre- des Ois. pl. 11. ves subeequales, Crrc#®ETws.~Vieill. On the Groups of the Falconide. Stirps Aquilina continued. Rostrum superne suban- gulare. Nares rotundate. usque ad digitos plumati. Rostrum superne convex- um. Mandibula superior subdentata. Nares semilu- Nares transverse. Tuarsi elongati, fortissimi, ad ba- sin plumati. _Acrotarsia scutellata. Ungues longi, fortissimi, acuti. Rostrum superne convex- um. ares elliptici. Tarsi elevati, subgraciles. Acro- tarsia scutellata. Digiti subbreves. Ungues acuti. en et SES SRS RE —————— a ** Alea breves 4 Rostrum superne convex- um. Nares subclausi, ri- mzformes. Zarst breves, semipalmati. SS SEES pe Rostrum superne convex- um. Nares lunulate. Tuarsi breves subgraciles. Ungues longi, acutissimi. | | | Vor. I. z ee subhispidum. Tarsi Aquira.—Auct. Morpunus.—Cuv. Cyminpis.—Cuv. J e AsTuRINA.—Vieill. 5 337 heliaca. Sav. Ois* d’Egypte, pl.12. Pl. Col. 151. juv. 152. chryseeta. Linn. Pl. Enl. 409. fem. 410. nevia. Linn. bellicosa. Daud. Le < Vaills Ois. d’Afr. plate fucosa. Cuv. Pl. Col. 32. pennata. Lath. Pi. Col. 33. Malaiensis. Reinw. Pl Com7. Harpyra.—Cuv. ie RL Pl. Col. ( * tarsis nudis. Guianensis. Daud. urubitinga. Linn. Pl. Col. 55. ** tarsis plumatis. occipitalis. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. d’ Afr. pl. 2. § ornatus. Daud. Le | Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 26. albescens. Daud. Le Vaill.. Ois. d’Afr. Pins: maculosa. Vieill. Ois. d’Amer. Sept. 3. bis. L { * acrotarsiis scutel- latis. hamatus. Jil. PI. Col. 61. juv. 231. | ** acrotarsiis reti- | culatis. ayennensis. Gmel. Pl. Enl. 473. PI. Col. 270. uncinatus. Pl. Co., 103. fem. 104. juv. 115. coronatus. Azara. Pl. Col. 235 cinerea. Vieill. Gal. des Ois. pl. 20. 338 ocres. Rostrum breve. Nares sub- ovales. tarsia scutellata. | Rostrum breve. Tarsi medi- Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. §. 2. Stinps Accipitrina. Acrotarsia reticulata. D#DALIoN. ca { pa Tarsi mediocres. Acro- Astur.—Auct. a melanops. Lath. Ind. Qrn. 1. 37. chinnans, Linn. Gal. des. Ois. pl. 19. lumbarius. Linn. P|. Enl. 418. Nove Hollandiz. Lath. White’s Voy. hemidactylus. Temm. Pl. Col. 3. gracilis. Zemm. PI. Col. 91. nitidus. Lath. Pl. Col. 87. juv. 294. xanthocorax. Zemm. Pl. Col. 92. brachypterus. Zemm. P}. Col. 141. juv. 116, magnirostris, Gmel. Pl. Enl. 460. juv. Pl. Col. 86. diatus. Lath. Syn. sup. pl. 121. Pl. Col. 123. poliogaster. Natterer. Pl. Col. 264. juv. 295. ( fringillarius. Ray. Pi. Enl. 412. 467. torquatus. Cuv. Pl, Col. 43. juv. 93. velox. Wils. Am. Orn. pl. 45. f. 1. Pensylvanicus. Wils. Am. Orn. pl. 46. f. 1, juv. Pl. Col. 67. virgatus. Reinw. Pl., ra Rostrum breve aba- siaduncum. Ale breves. Remex 4tus longissi- mus. Rostrum breve. Nares subo- vales. TYarsi elongati, glabri. ig ; cee CCIPITER,—Auct, Acrotarsia scutellata, sutura vix decernenda. Col. 109. pileatus. Pr, Max. Pl. Col. 205. soloensis. Horsf. Pl. Col. 129. juv. 110. musicus. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 27. gabar. Daud. LeVaill. Ois. d@’Afr, 33. Pl. Col. 122. juv. 140. minullus. Daud. Le Rostrum breve. Mandibule, superior fortiter bidentata, in- ferior mediocres. Acrotarsia scutella- ta. Remiges 3tius et 4tus longis- simi, equales, bis emarginata. Tarsi bidentatus. Lath. Pl. Harpacus. Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 34. Col. 38. juv. 228. diodon. Zemm, P1. Col. 198. %. d Rostrum breve. Mandibule, superior fortiter bidentata, in- ferior simpliciter emarginata. Tarsit mediocres. Acrotarsiascu- tellata. Ale breves. Remer 2dus longissimus, leviter inter- ne prope apicem emarginatus. Rostrum breve, a ba- siaduncum. Ale longe. R ° Rostrum breve. Mandibule emex 2dus : : aD Pe loncissi- superior fortiter dentata, infe- nus, rlor emarginata. Acrotarsia re- | ticulata. Remex 2dus longissi-. mus, primus et secundus prope apicem interné fortiter emargi- natus. ‘ | | | | ( | §. 4. Stirps | Rostrum breve. Mandibule, su- perior subdentata, inferior emar- ginata. Yarst breves debiles. Acrotarsiascutellata. Ale longe. Rostrum | Pemex 3tius longissimus. tediocre, a asiadun- { Rostrum mediocre. Nares sub- um. Cau- {| ovales. Tuarsi elongati. Acro- 4 wqualis. | tarsia scutellata. Digiti plerum- que breves. Remex 3tius lon- | gissimus. Capitis latera pluma- rum circulo instructa, disco ca- pitali Strigium persimili. §. 3. Stirps Falconina. IeRAX. Faico.—Auct. Buteonina. IctintA.—Vieill. Crrcus.—Auct. ZZ, On the Groups of the Falconide. 339 cerulescens. Zinn. Edw. pl. 108. Horsf. Zool. Research. Pl. Col. 97. (frontalis. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 28. chiequera. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. d’Afr. pl. 30. tibialis. Daud. LeVaill. Ois. d’ Afr. pl. 29. sparverius. Linn. PI. Enl. 444. fem. 465. Wils. Am. Orn. pl: $2. f. 1. fem. pl. 16. fil. tinnunculus. Linn. Pl. Enl. 401. juv. 471. rupicolus. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. d’ Afr. pl. 35. punctatus. - Cuv. Pl. nt es Col. 45. femoralis. Zemm. Pl. Col. 121. islandicus. Linn. P\. En1.462. juv. 210,446. subbuteo. Linn. Pl. Enl. 482. e@salon. Gmel. P|. En). 447. juv. 468. rufipes. Bechst, Pi Enl. 431. peregrinus. Linn. PI. Enl.430. juv.470, 469. TS aS A pees A severus. Horsf. { tinnunculoides. Natter. plumbea. Lath. Vicill. Ois. d’Am. sept. pl. < 20 bis. juv. Pl. Col. {. 180. Lath. Syn. Ed. (..:2.-pl. xii. ( eruginosus. Aldrov. P|. Enl. 460, juv. 424. pygargus. Linn. Pl. Enl, 459. juv. 443,480. < cineraceus. Mont. Gal. des Ois. pl. 13. acoli. Daud. Le Vaill. Ois. @Afr. pl. 21. 310 Rostrum mediocre, a Mr. Vigors’s Sketches in Ornithology. Stirps Buteonina continued. Rostrum mediocre. Lorum is serratis tectum. Yarsi plapete spirals: : Pernis.—Cuv. mediocres, semiplumati. dcro- tarsia reticulata. Remex 3tius longissimus. Rostrum mediocre, subdebile. . uf “07 = Nares subrotundate. Tarsi bre Bose uct. ves. Acrotarsia scutellata. Re- mex Atus longissimus. §. 5. Stirps Milvina. Rostrum mediocre, debile, compressum. Tarsi breves, se- miplumati. Acrotarsia reticu- lata. _Ungues, medio excepto, Trt wos. Sav. interné rotundati. Remex 2dus longissimus, Imus et 2dus for- titer interne emarginatus. basi subad-¢ uncum.Cau- | Rostrum mediocre, debile, su- da furcata. | perne subangulare. Nares obli- que, elliptice. Tarsi breves. Acrotarsia scutellata. dle lon- gissime. Remex Atus longissi- mus. Cauda furcata. Mirvus.—