55?. INSECTS AT HOME. 



entirely enveloped. But the most valuable of these creatures 

 is perhaps the Cochineal Insect {Coccus cacti) of South 

 America, from which is obtained the most brilliant of crimson 

 dyes. Other species of Coccus produce a fine scarlet colour, 

 but none of them can be compared with the Mexican insect 

 for the wonderful abundance and rich colour of the dye. 

 The valuable colour called carmine is made from the Cochineal 

 insect 



