Systematic Position of the Ruff. 615 



gradually ascending line is rather abruptly interrupted by 

 the much sharper slope of the nasal region. 



In respect of this feature the Ruff agrees with the Eroliinse. 



(7) In the Eroliinte the zygomatic arch or quadrato-jugal 

 rod makes a very distinct angle with the maxillary process 

 of the premaxillae. In the Triuginse this angle is hardly 

 observable. In the Eroliinse the zygomatic rod is relatively 

 as well as actually shorter than in the IVinginse, aud it 

 makes an obtuse angle with the outer process of the nasal. 

 In the Tringinae this angle is acute. These characters, so 

 far as 1 have been able to observe with the material to hand, 

 are coustaut and conspicuous. 



In respect of them, however^ it is to be noted that the 

 RufE is more Tringine than Eroliine. 



In both the Eruliiute aud the Rutf the outer or descending 

 processes of the nasal bones are very slender and round. 

 In the Tringinae they are ribbon-shaped or flattened. 



(8) The laciymalsj especially as regards their descending 

 processes, differ in the two subfamilies. Want of space 

 forbids a detailed description, but the characters exhibited 

 serve as useful distinguishing factors. The lacrymals of the 

 Ruff are slightly specialised, but agree in their main features 

 with the Eroliinse, especially as regards the Knot (^Canutus 

 canutus). 



(9) The antorbital plates are differentiated in the two 

 subfamilies, a wider space being apparent in the Triuginse 

 between their upper margins and the lower surfaces uf tlie 

 lacrymals. In Hetaropyijia this plate practically fuses with 

 the lacrymal. 



(10) In the Triuginse the grooves for the supra-orbital 

 glands in the interorbital space are marginal aud quite con- 

 spicuous. In the Eroliinse they are very difficult to make out. 



In respect of these alternate characters the Ruff" agrees 

 with the Triuginse. 



(11) In the Eroliinse the post-articular process of the man- 

 dible is directed upwards in an abruptly hook-shaped fashion. 



In respect of this character the Ruff agrees with the 

 Eroliinse. 



