COLLECTING AND PRESERVING INSECTS RANKS. 



61 



For Microlepidoptera, small moths, flies, and other tiny insects a 

 modification of the spreading board has been devised, as shown in 

 the illustration. It consists of a small block broader at base, with a 

 groove along the top fdled with pith, ami deep enough for a micro- 

 pin. Strips are fastened 

 over each side, leaving a 

 narrow groove between 

 them. These blocks may be 

 made solid and the groove 

 may be cut triangularly, so 

 that the bottom is a little 

 wider than the top. Mr. 

 Busck has devised a method 

 of carrying these Micro 

 spreading blocks in an in- 

 sect box, as shown in figure 

 109, the box holding sev- 

 eral rows of the blocks, 

 and triangular strips of wood fitting down between the blocks to 

 hold them in place. One may carry this box out on a long collecting 

 trip and spread the captures as desired. 



Micros should be spread when fresh, if possible. If it is necessary 



Fig. 108.— A drying cage. 



Fig. 109.— The Busck box, for carrying spreading blocks for Microlepidoptera. 



to wait, then after the specimen has been pinned a slight puff blown 

 against it from behind will diverge the wings and make more easy 

 and successful the job of relaxing and future spreading. In the field 

 it is often w r ell to pin Micros in a tin box with ;i piece of moist cork. 



