CURCULIO. WEEVIL. 
Generic Character. 
Antenna subclavatae, rostro 
insidentes. 
Rostrum corneum, promi- 
nens. 
Antenna subclavated, situ- 
ated on the snout. 
Snout horny, prominent. 
TThIS genus is extremely extensive. Among 
the largest of the exotic species may be numbered 
the Ciirculio Palma rum or Palm Weevil, vrhich is 
entirely of a black colour, and measures more than 
two inches in length from the tip of the snout to 
the end of the body. Its larva, which is very large, 
white, and of an oval shape, resides in the tender- 
est part of the smaller palm-trees, and is con- 
sidered, when properly fried or broiled, as one of 
the greatest dainties in the West Indies. “ The 
tree,” says Madam Merian, grows to the height 
of a man, and is cut off where it begins to be 
tender, is cooked like cauliflower, and tastes better 
than an artichoke. In the middle of these trees 
live innumerable quantities of worms, which, at 
first, are as small as a maggot in a nut, but after- 
wards grow to a very large size, and feed on the 
marrow of the tree. These worms are laid on the 
coals to roast, and are considered as a highly 
agreeable food.” 
