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XIII. The Natural History of Xylocopa Teredo and Horia macu- 
lata. By the Rev. Lansdown Guilding, B.A. F.L.S. 
Read June 4, 1822. 
Ixsecrs, though seemingly the most insignificant of animal 
beings, have an important task assigned them by our great and 
good Creator. Though the period of their activity and existence 
is soon closed, and their size appears contemptible, nothing can 
long resist their attacks. Their utility is equal to their power. 
In innumerable instances they conduce to the comforts and plea- 
sures of the human race; but it is chiefly, perhaps, as scaven- 
gers that they are serviceable in the boundless field of nature. 
Without the labours of these puny agents the atmosphere would 
abound in effluvia fatal to life. Without their aid, the low and 
lovely plants that adorn our valleys, the stately tenants of our 
forests, with all their parasites, would want room for develop- 
ment. If man be sometimes a miserable sufferer from the united 
or unrestrained attacks of these active invaders of his rights, he 
cannot, on reflection, but confess, that they are wisely and kindly 
given for the general welfare of the universe. The decompo- 
sition of timber hastening to decay, is accelerated by no insect, 
perhaps, more than by the Bee, which is the subject of this 
communication. Independent of its singular habits, the striking 
difference of the sexes will, I doubt not, render the species worthy 
of the notice of the Linnean Society. The description of its de- 
structive parasite has been added to make its history complete. 
St. Vincent, Jan. 1, 1822. 
: HYMEN- 
