OF WASHINGTON. 347 



doubling upon itself when disturbed in the water, a peculiarity 

 not possessed by Dytiscidas or Carabidas, even not by the silphi- 

 form larva of Cychrus. Mr. Schwarz also alluded to the pecu 

 liar odor of the imago Amphizoa, which reminded him somewhat 

 of that emitted by Chlasnius. 



Mr. Masius was called upon to give his recent experience with 

 the " bite " of Benacus griseus. In handling a specimen col 

 lected at the electric light he received a severe sting on the hand. 

 The sting or puncture of this insect proved to be very painful, and 

 his hand showed inflammation the next morning. The pain and 

 swelling increased for two or three days, and became so trouble 

 some that a physician was consulted, without, however, any 

 benefit or relief. The swelling, however, gradually subsided, 

 and in a day or two more the trouble disappeared, although at the 

 time of the meeting the injured part was still sore. Mr. Howard 

 called attention to the record by Mr. Glover of the latter's being 

 bitten by a Prionidus, with poisonous consequences. Mr. Ash- 

 mead said that he had also been bitten by Prionidus, but had 

 frequently handled Benacus without being bitten. He also 

 alluded to the fact that some species of Ichneumons which are not 

 generally considered to be capable of inflicting a sting can sting 

 with almost as painful results as a wasp. Prof. Riley said that 

 the experience with Benacus confirms the belief he has always 

 held, that all rapacious Heteroptera sting or pierce whenever 

 they get a position or hold giving them a purchase. He also 

 commented on the peculiarities of individuals, which cause some 

 of them to suffer severely from the sting or bite of an insect, while 

 others show no effect whatever from such injury. Mr. Masius 

 added that his previous experience with insects, such as bees and 

 mosquitoes, and with poisonous plants, such as Rhus, had con 

 vinced him that he was peculiarly non-susceptible to the action 

 of such poisons. 



JUNE 2, 1892. 



President C. V. Riley in the chair, and twelve members pres 

 ent. 



The following were elected corresponding members : 



Prof. G. F. Atkinson, Auburn, Ala. ; Mr. C. F. Baker, Fort 



