The entomologist's text book : an introduction to the natural history, structure, physiology and classification of insects, including the Crustacea and Arachnida . of along and tubular passage, at the mouth of which thevoracious larva stations itself, its head just fitting theopening of this retreat, with its jaws expanded, ready to seizeon every passing insect. The two other species referred toare the ant-lion {Myrmeleon) and a fly {Rhagio vermileo).These construct large funnel-shaped burrows in sandy situa-tions, at the bottom of which they take their station, readyto seize any ant or other
The entomologist's text book : an introduction to the natural history, structure, physiology and classification of insects, including the Crustacea and Arachnida . of along and tubular passage, at the mouth of which thevoracious larva stations itself, its head just fitting theopening of this retreat, with its jaws expanded, ready to seizeon every passing insect. The two other species referred toare the ant-lion {Myrmeleon) and a fly {Rhagio vermileo).These construct large funnel-shaped burrows in sandy situa-tions, at the bottom of which they take their station, readyto seize any ant or other insect which may chance to slipdown the sides. The grub of the latter lies motionless atthe foot of the bm-row, and, snake-like, twines itself roundits prey, piercing it mth its strong hooks or mandibles. Butthe ant-lion is more wary, its form is most unprepossessing; it therefore buries itself inthe sand at the bottom ofits hole, leaving only itslong curved jaws exposed;and it has the additionalinstinct, in case any of theinsects which fall dovtTithe sides of its trap should endeavoiu- to escape, to bringthem within its reach by a shower of sand. When full. MODES OF DEFENCE. 325 grown, it forms a globular cocoon of sand, within which itbecomes a small inactive pupa, and in a short time burstsforth under the perfect and beautiful form represented in thepreceding page.
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Keywords: ., bookau, bookcentury1800, booksubjectcrustacea, booksubjectinsects
