C7 419.) 
XXI. The cost and value of Insect Collections. 
By Davip SHarp, M.A., M.B., F.R.S., &e. 
[Read October 4th, 1893.] 
Tue discussions that have from time to time taken place 
as to the number of species of insects have had the 
result of making it pretty clear that if all the extant 
collections of insects were put together it would be pro- 
bably found that they did not contain one-tenth part of 
the existing species. Moreover, this great general col- 
lection—if we can imagine it brought together—would 
be found dreadfully deficient in other respects; for in- 
stance, a large part of the species would be represented 
by only one, two, or three specimens; many of the 
individuals would be found to be in a very inferior state 
of preservation, and not a series would be found to illus- 
trate either variation, geographical distribution, or meta- 
morphosis, although these are essential points for a good 
collection. We should also discover that there were 
dreadful discrepancies as to the primary requisite, 
nomenclature. We should find in some cases several 
species standing under one name, and in others we 
should see individuals of the same species standing 
under different names. In other words, the world has 
made very little progress with the formation of a col- 
lection of insects. The enormous amount of enthusiasm, 
labour, devotion, and study bestowed on Entomology 
have as yet effected but little towards what is required. 
There can be no doubt that the insect-fauna of the 
world is becoming greatly depauperated ; one hears it 
from all sources. In our own country, in North America, 
in New Zealand, in Australia; insects that were for- 
merly found in places are not there now. And I often 
ask myself whether the insects will not succeed in 
becoming extinct before mankind has become acquainted 
with them. 
There are but few data accessible for the purpose of 
TRANS. ENT. SOC. LOND. 1893.—PaRT IV. (DEC.) 
