148 LIBELLULID^E, OR DRAGON-FLIES. 



groups may again be subdivided into three families ; tbe 

 LIBELLULID^E or Drogon-jlies ; the EPHEMERID^E, or May-flies \ 

 and the TERMITID.E or White Ants. In the first two of these, 

 the larvae and pupae are inhabitants of the water, and respire by 

 means of peculiar organs placed along the sides or at the extremity 

 of the abdomen ; whilst in other respects, they nearly resemble 

 the perfect insect. They creep out of the water to undergo the 

 final metamorphosis. 



673. Section I. The LIBELLTJLID^, or Dragon-flies, are well- 

 known insects ; being easily distinguished by the slender form 

 of their bodies, their varied colours, their large gauze-like wings, 

 and the rapidity of flight with which they pursue other insects 

 on which they prey. They have a large head, of rounded form, 

 furnished at its sides with two very large compound eyes, and 



FlG. 370. LlBELLULA CANCELLATA. 



with three ocelli, situated upon its upper surface. Most of this 

 tribe frequent the neighbourhood of water; and may be fre- 

 quently seen skimming over the surface of ponds or streams, in 

 search of flies, gnats, and other small insects. An American species 

 has been recently described by Mr. Newport, which- seems to be 

 actually provided with branchial or gill-like appendages, even in 

 its perfect state ; and the habits of this insect appear to be pecu- 



