MICROSCOPIC OBJECTS. 72 



Fig. 143. Eggs of small Copper Butterfly (Chrysophanus 

 Phheas), x30. 



The eggs of many insects,, more especially those belonging 

 to the order Lepidoptera, greatly resemble many of the 

 smaller seeds in their superficial microscopic appearance (see 

 fig. 45) . Most of them are very distinctive in their markings, 

 and the exact species may almost always be ascertained from 

 their examination. But there is still a large field for micro- 

 scopic investigations, as the eggs of many insects have never 

 been examined at all. 



They are rather difficult to mount well. The simplest plan 

 is to wait until the small caterpillar emerges from the eggs ; 

 or their vitality may be destroyed by the application of a red- 

 hot needle, but care must be taken to only just prick the 

 egg ; they may then be mounted in a dry opaque cell. 



Fig. 144. Eggs of Willow- beauty Moth (Boarmia 

 rhomboidaria), x40. 



The Moth from which these eggs were taken, is found 

 nearly everywhere, but more especially on plum and birch 

 trees. The eggs of many of the Moths are quite as beautiful 

 as the eggs of the Butterflies ; but scarcely any of them have 

 ever been mounted, drawn, or described. 



These eggs may be mounted in the same manner as those 

 previously described. 



