544 NATURAL HISTORY OF ARTHROPODS. 



The latter are formed either by enlarging the ordinary brood cells, or by constructing 

 a new comb devoted entirely to the storing of honey. In opposition to the old theory 

 as to the exact hexagonal character of the cell, Wyman has proved that the cells are 

 all more or less imperfect. 



The common honey-bee is now distributed all over the world. It was introduced 

 into North Amei'ica in the seventeenth century, and into South America in 1845. It 

 was originally a native of Europe. The Italian and Syrian bees, although formerly 

 considered distinct species, are now placed as varieties of A. mellifica. 



The insect enemies of the hive bee are quite numerous. The larvae of the two wax 

 moths, Galleria mellonella and Achroia alvearia, consume the wax, breaking up the 

 cells and spinning their webs, filled with excremental pellets, about in the hive. Phora 

 iin'rassata is said to be a true parasite of bee larvae in Europe, although there is 

 doubt as to whether it may not act as a mere scavenger. The drones are infested by 

 the two hair-worms, Mermis albicans and Gordius sub-MfitTCiis. A beetle known as 

 Trichodes a.piarius destroys the larvae in Europe, and the bee-louse, Braula coeca, 

 infests the adult. 



The indigenous honey-bees of the tropics belong to the genera Trigona and Meli- 

 pona. The species are small and stingless, and form immense colonies. The honey 

 of some species is excellent, while of others it is bitter in taste. Ordinarily they build 

 in hollow trees, but certain species suspend their nests from branches, and one uses 

 clay in its construction. 



L. O. HOWARD. 



EDITOR'S NOTE. Mr. Howard is also the author of the accounts of the families Chalcidae and 

 Proctotrupidae, included in the article of Professor Comstock. 



FIG. tiG6. Under surface of bee. 



