126 COMMON BRITISH INSECTS. 



These Beetles possess large wings, and are capable of 

 flight, the elytra not being soldered together as is the 

 case with the Blaptidae. The thorax is squared, and 

 its base is as wide as the base of the elytra. 



Herewith is represented the typical British species,. 

 Tenebrio molitor, the colour of which is shining 

 blackish-brown, the body being rather 

 flat and very thickly punctured. 

 Each of the elytra has one very short 

 stria next to the scutellum, and eight 

 others reaching to the apex. It lives 

 in corn-mills, flour-stores, bakehouses, 

 and similar localities, and in conse- 

 quence is often called the FLOUR 



Tenebrio molitor. -o -p 



The larva is popularly known by the name of 

 MEAL-WORM, under which name it is largely supplied 

 to bird-fanciers, who find that many of their feathered 

 pets will not live unless they have a constant supply 

 of insect food, such as is afforded by the Meal-worm, 

 which, in consequence of the perpetual warmth of its 

 home, breeds throughout the year. From April to 

 June is, however, the best time to find the perfect 

 insect. 



THE family of the Pyrochroidae is rendered 

 familiar to us by means of the well-known CARDINAL 

 BEETLE (Pyrochroa rubens), so called on account of 

 its beautiful scarlet colour. The insect is represented 

 below. 



The Pyrochroidae are known by the distinct neck 

 the rounded thorax, and the form of the antennae, 



