The Bionomics of South African Insects. 881 



These results are tolerably decisive ; but it would have 

 been more satisfactory if the experiments had been con- 

 tinued for a much longer period and controlled by others 

 in which different forms of food were employed. In this 

 way a convincing test of the wholesome qualities of the 

 larvoe would have been supplied. In other experiments, 

 again, it would have been desirable to offer a wide choice, 

 and ascertain if there are any marked preferences. 



Mr. G. A. K. Marshall has also observed one of the 

 HisteridiB, Histcr coffer (Erichs.), eating a far larger beetle 

 than itself, the Scarabadd Onitis alexis. He has also 

 observed the same beetle devouring Aphoclii. 



On July 19, 1898, I observed a large Elaterid (Corym- 

 hites vircns ^) eating the larva3 of Vcmessa urticcV on a 

 nettle beside the mountain road (GOOO feet) from Leukerbad 

 to the Gemmi Pass, Valais. The specimens are now in the 

 Hope Department. 



C. Prcdaceous Dij^tera. 



It is convenient to bring together the numerous records 

 of the attacks of AsiliiLv upon insects into a tabular 

 statement. In its preparation I have received the kindest 

 help and co-operation from Colonel Yerbury, Colonel 

 Bingham, Mr. G. A. K. Marshall, Mr. A. H. Hamm, and 

 Dr. Chapman. 



