shall not find her so very intractable. | rangement, and more than this, combined Russia is the political sphynx; she pro- in rendering it a favorite and popular scipounds an enigma to Europe; until it be ence, by the dispersion of prejudice and solved, she devastates and devours. The riddle once read, she destroys herself.

сит

ART. X.-1. Catalogue des Coleoptères de la Collection de M. le Comte De Jean. 1-3 Livraisons. Paris, 1833-34. 8vo. 2. Genera et Species Curculionidum, Synonymia hujus Familie, a C. A. Schoenherr. Species Nove aut hactenus minus cognite, descriptionibus a Dom. Leonardo Gyllenhal, C. H. Boheman. et Entomologis aliis, illustrate. Tom. 1, P. I. et II.; Tom. 2, P. I. et II. Paris, 1833-34.

the diffusion of taste for the investigation of objects so replete with all that can prove attractive. We much wonder that it was so long neglected, and not equally cultivated with its sister science Botany, over which it possesses innumerable advantages, although not in so direct an application to the necessities and comforts of man, to which it however contributes very largely; but in that development of intellect resulting from its due cultivation, and the very effective arguments it adduces in support of the doctrines of natural theology. It had long to contend against the repugnance produced by either the form or habits of some of its individuals; but surely that mind must be very feeble which allows itself to be influenced by such considerations. Is any thing, we would ask, that proceeds from the hands of the great Creator too insignificant for man to investigate? A moment's reflection will ap prise us that the most minute insect must fertafeln. Berlin, 1834. 8vo. necessarily be as fully perfected in its 4. Hymenopterorum Ichneumonibus affistructure, in its wonderful apparatus of nium Monographia, Genera Europea nerves, muscles, respiratory organs, and et Species illustrantes. Scripsit C. G. organs of the senses, and all their funcNees ab Esenbeck, Dr. 2 Tom. Stutt-tions, and its system of circulation, (proved

8vo.

3. Jahrbücher der Insectenkunde, mit besonderer Rücksicht auf die Sammlung im Königlichen Museum zu Berlin. Herausgegeben von Dr. F. Klug. Erster Band, mit 2 illuminirten Kup

gart, 1833-34.

5. Die Wanzenartigen Insekten, getreu nach der Natur abgebildet und beschrieben, von Dr. C. W. Hahn. 1 ter Bd. 6 Heft. 2r Bd. 4 Heft. Nurnberg, 1833-34.

by recent discoveries,) as the largest, and, according to its rank in nature, the most gigantic animal, over which it possesses an infinite superiority of muscular strength; and, when we find that there are insects scarcely discoverable without a lens, must we not exclaim with wonder and admiration at the stupendous power evinced in their construction? and should not this

6. Histoire Naturelle des Insectes.—DipM. Macquart. Tom. Ir. accomtères, par pagné de Planches. Paris, 1834. 7. Abbildungen zur Berichtigung und stimulate us to learn as much as we can Ergänzung der Schmetterlingskunde, concerning these miracles, that we may besonders der Microlepidopterologie, be better able to appreciate the marvelals Supplement zu Treitschke's und lous power displayed in their creation, alHübner's Europäischen Schmetterlin- though we can scarcely hope to arrive at gen, mit erläuterndem Text. Heraus- the perfect comprehension of their least gegeben von J. E. Fischer. 2tes Heft. Leipzig. 8. Delectus Animalium Articulatorum, que in itinere per Brasiliam, annis 1817-20, jussu et auspiciis Maximiliani Josephi I. Bav. Reg. August. peracto Collegerunt Dr. J. B. de Spix et Dr. C. F. Ph. de Martius. Digessit, descripsit, pingenda curavit, Dr. Max. Perty. Fasciculus III. cum 16 tabulis.

Monachii, 1830.

THE last fifteen or twenty years have done much for the science of Entomology, in its nomenclature, in the addition of species of insects, and in their systematic ar

attributes, the complexity of their organization, when even most simple, the multiplicity of their instincts, the quality of those instincts, and their very powerful agency in supporting the universal equili

brium of nature? Who then is bold

enough to say, even to what his arrogance and assumption have dared to style a contemptible insect, "Thou art beneath my notice," when he feels that the pigmy might reply," Thou, with all thy boasted superiority, dost not comprehend me?" Humility is the crown of humanity, and let us follow the words of Solomon and learn wisdom from the ant.

The inducements to the study of natu

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in regular synthetical progression, every definition which analysis has previously framed for the systematic distribution of the series.

ral history in general are too multifarious | how numerous these consecutive divisions to be dwelt on here: among the strongest may be, or what may be their names. But in favor of entomology is its exhaustless- species being the final subdivision of orness and the vigor thence derived to the ganic conformation, for varieties are mere faculties, and that mental equanimity and contingencies which obey no law, it fol suavity of temper, the necessary concomit- lows that the foundation of the science ants of health, produced by exercise in the consists of species, the knowledge of air; for when we speak of the study of which includes the whole learning of the entomology, we would be understood as science. It was reasoning thus, that Linpursuing it chiefly in the fields, for there næus in Botany, and Fabricius after him, alone is that most desirable portion of our applying it to entomology, severally laid knowledge to be culled which refers to down this maxim: "Quo plures entomothe instincts and habits of the creatures. logus noverit insectorum species, eo ceteThe objects of the science appear to ris paribus etiam præstantior erit, quum comprise, 1st. A systematic knowledge of omnis vera cognitio humana cognitione the species and their subdivision into specierum nitatur," and the importance genera and all the superior combinations of an extensive acquaintance with species it may be thence desirable to form; and, is shown by each containing within itself, 2dly, the history of each species, which contains the details of its metamorphoses, anatomy, habits, economy, instinct, and mode of propagation. One result of this knowledge will be the power of applying them to our uses when thus available, or of curbing the injuries inflicted by them, by teaching us to restrain their diffusion; another and more important result is the instruction it instils of the subserviency of each individual to the good of all, and of their mutual and relative dependency, thus presenting a splendid view of the universal harmony of nature, and thereby inculcating the bounteous benevolence which devised the scheme, and which has so consolidated the laws that regulate it, that we can see in it nothing less than the eternal presidency of an omniscient and omnipotent Providence. The study, therefore, of this science, and of nature generally, has as evidently moral and religious tendencies, as it is intellectual and economical.

This proves its value were the systema thus logically constructed, and each collateral division, bearing the same name, of equivalent value; but, as we find that Nature will burst through every bodice we endeavor to invest her with, for none hitherto framed has been found to fit her, it becomes still more apparent that a profound knowledge of species is indispensable, as they even vary in structure, which is a character that should always be generic, whether it be sexual or common; but which rule entomologists have been hitherto, perhaps, too modest to adopt, when such an anomalous genus contains but few species; but which, as these increase, and every day contributes to this effect, it will be found important to have recourse to. Robineau Desvoidy, in his "Essai sur les Myodaires," is the only instarce present to our minds, who has proceeded upon this principle. The specific character will therefore necessarily be important to attend to; it is a detail of the trivial differences inter se, and thus may be adapted to suit present purposes, and can be reconstructed and altered, if rendered desirable by the accession of new species.

The knowledge of species being thus evidently the basis of the science, it is important that their differences should be philosophically characterized, and the character also clearly determined, which group, them, apparently naturally, into genera; and these likewise should be as obvious and perceptible as it is possible to make them. The generic character will therefore be a table of resemblances for But the specific description, if the spethe group beneath it, and of differences cies is to be permanent and not liable to for all collateral groups, and consequently the casualties of mistake or insufficiency, cannot truly admit of sections and subdi- should absolutely contain every thing in visions, which are merely aids for the the fullest possible description of the exmore ready determination of an individu- ternal appearance of the insect which is al. The same axiom applies to all the not common to its congeners, and which, several branches into which the class may consequently, has not already entered inramify; the aggregate of character neces- to any of the definitions of the superior sarily diminishing the closer we approach subdivisions, for they can never be foundthe stem, so that it is perfectly immaterialed upon characters liable to vary, which

will necessarily remain merely specific. upon particulars. Unfortunately, in this The latitude which these may be allowed science, the minuteness of the individuals, to take without affecting the identity of and their delicacy of organization, place the species, must be left to the experience great difficulties in the way of physiologiof the monographer; as there are many cal investigation, the results of which, instances wherein extreme varieties have consequently, we fear, are but rude apbeen considered species, until further in- proximations in lieu of positive facts.formation and a series of individuals have The entomologist must be encouraged to proved them to be identical. This shows the observation of facts, for all natural the importance to be attached also to a science is wholly dependent upon them. familiar acquaintance with varieties Such How infinitely more attractive and ina full and detailed specific description is structive are the labors and writings of not always required for immediate use, Reaumur, Bonnet, the Hubers, Sprengel, for which frequently much less would suf- and De Geer, as connecting the former fice, but to meet the possibility of future with the following, viz. Swammerdam, contingencies from the discovery of new Lyonnet, Herold, &c. &c., than those of insects; and the utility of an ample de- the most ingenious systematist, howsoever scription is evinced by the doubt attached refined his theory!-and these are the to the identity of many insects described examples to emulate. We admit that they by Linnæus, Fabricius, and still later could not dispense with system; or where writers, from the error of not taking this they unadvisedly endeavored to do so, the comprehensive view of the probability of world has lost the advantage of their obfuture discoveries. It is also more philo-servations. But, we would ask, where sophical and truly scientific that every does Botany stand in comparison with thing that will bear record should be in- Entomology? In the little we do possess scribed and entered in the registers of the upon this subject, where does it present science. us with such a pleasing and attractive It is therefore to the monographer that generalization as we possess in the first we must look for really profound and two volumes of the charming "Introducsatisfactory information; but we fear it tion to Entomology by Kirby and will be very long before all the requisi- Spence? We would advise all railers tions for a good monograph, as stated by against Entomology to read those voGodet, will be answered. Indeed, the lumes before they again utter an opinion difficulties which surround it are, we may upon the subject; and, should that perusal almost say, insuperable; and it will not fail to make converts of them, it will at be until they are overcome that we can boast of possessing a complete natural history of insects. But it is progressing; and the fundamental knowledge of species is a great step towards it. If we complain It seems hopeless to endeavor to arrive of the paucity of information upon the at any satisfactory conclusion relative to natural history of insects, it refers com- the probable number of the species of paratively to the hosts of insects, of the insects spread over the earth. Various manners of which we as yet know nothing; calculations have been made, the disand it will be possibly very long before crepancies of which are perfectly ludiwe arrive at any clear knowledge upon crous, if we view them without reference them beyond their mere arrangement. to the circumstances and data whence But the works we do possess upon the they were deduced. It appears plausible subject are admirable in execution. Sys- to argue from the materials in hand, tematic collocation gives us nothing de- namely, from any assiduously elaborated cided upon the analogies of instinct; we Fauna upon the relative numbers of the cannot draw inferences from such pre- different orders;-for some, the Coleopmises, which is clearly attested by Huber's tera and Lepidoptera have been very "Observations sur les Fourmis "the generally the favorites, and consequently species of the same genus differing very more carefully and universally collected considerably in economy, and, conse- than either of the other orders; but still quently, in the instincts which regulate it. the result will be far from conclusive, for We will admit that structure is sometimes such a Fauna will necessarily be of a a tolerable guide, leading through func- country seated within the temperate to habits, economy, and instinct, zones; and to conclude thence upon the whence we deduce general analogies; but relative numbers of the orders within the it cannot be depended upon in reasoning tropical regions, and of countries so dif

tion

least have the merit of divesting them of their prejudices, and we think they will admit that the time thus occupied has not been lost.

ferently circumstanced both in climate and | astonished at the calculation made by geological structure, is merely to hazard Reich, who estimates the number of the conjectures without the least hope of even species of insects at possibly a million. an approximation to the truth. The data This multitude seems vast; but compare whence they must proceed are exceed-it with the number of individuals of a ingly incorrect; for the number of the single species frequently observed; the two orders which should form the basis myriads of minute gnats occasionally seen of the calculation have not, in those re- sporting over pools and under trees; the gions, been yet so nearly ascertained as infinite hosts of ephemera that by to enable us to form a clear idea, the myriads of millions emerge, at a certain minute species having been hitherto very season of the year, from some of the much neglected. It has been generally rivers of France, as described by Reausupposed that small insects are rare within mur; the clouds of locusts, which even the tropics and tropical climates, from intercept the rays of the sun, and detheir seldom being sent to Europe. That vastate whole provinces, and in the course the reverse of this is closer to the truth, of a few hours transform a smiling and is clearly shown by a fact mentioned by fertile country into a wild waste and Reich, who says that he commissioned desert, threatening its whole population two friends, one residing at Rio Janeiro, with famine; the innumerable plant-lice and the other at Buenos Ayres, to collect which desolate our hop-grounds, and all the minute Coleoptera they could find, their enemies the lady-birds, which have and that, in consequence, he received been taken up by pail-fulls upon our from the latter place a four-ounce bottle coasts, and have completely covered the filled with spirits, which contained 1200 ocean at some distance from land; and minute insects, among which there were 116 the number of the inhabitants found in new species-and from Rio a very small the beehive, the ant-hill, and the white box, holding 216 impaled beetles, com- ants' nest. If nature, in frequent inprising 102 species, almost all of which stances, has rendered species thus prolific were new and unknown-and from the in individuals for peculiar purposes, can same locality a half-ounce pill-box, which we rationally doubt her capacity of being held 621 loose insects, consisting of more equally fruitful in the production of than 100 new species as small as any species, when we take into consideration found in our more northern countries. It the important variety of their functions, must be remarked, that in both instances, and the very varied nature of soil and they were collected at a very unpropitious temperature, of heat, combined with hutime of the year, in the course of a few midity and dryness, and the dissimilitude days, within a limited space, merely as of organization resulting from these differspecimens to ascertain if they were what ences of combination; and when we rethe European friend desired; whence it is flect that in our own country every day easy to conclude that they were not cap-almost adds to our indigenous tribes, altured by Entomologists, who would necessarily have been aware of the interest attached to what they sent, and consequently, as well as knowing better where to seek, they would, in the same space and time, have caught probably five times as many. We may therefore consider, that minute species are as abundant in proportion to the larger ones within the tropics as they are in the colder regions; and if so in the Coleoptera, why not in the Lepidoptera, and then in their parasites, the pupivorous Hymenoptera and the parasitical Hymenoptera in general, which we know to be almost innumerable in Europe and in our own country, from the hosts already described by Gravenhorst, Nees, and our two able and assiduous compatriots, Messrs. Walker and Halliday? The Diptera also will necessarily abound. Looking thence to the other orders, we do not feel so much

though they have been assiduously col lected for many years past,—a million therefore appears to us to be no exaggerated calculation of their probable number.

The geographical and local distribution, also, are points to which very considerable interest attaches, the former being indicative of the effects of climate and temperature upon form, as well as showing how widely Nature spreads some for certain purposes; whereas she adopts the use of analogical form and structure in other instances; clearly showing, by this variety, that a difference of function is required where we do not perceive even a modifi. cation of its action; whereas their local distribution is evidently very intimately connected with their instinct and economy-in fact, wholly influenced by them. The science possesses some very valuable but partial contributions to both. It is