SUPPLEMENT 



SERRICORNES. 



In the first section of this family, the first genus to be 

 noticed is that of Buprkstis, upon which very little can be 

 added to the details of the text. This genus, which is very 

 distinct, and very easily to be recognized, resembles that of 

 elater, but differs from it chiefly in the corslet or thorax, 

 which is destitute of a spring. 



The larvae of these insects live in woods. The perfect insect 

 usually remains on trees, bushes, plants, and flowers. It is 

 very frequently to be found in timber-yards. 



The buprestes walk very slowly, but are remarkable for 

 their agile flight when the weather is hot and dry. Some of 

 them suffer themselves to fall among the brambles, when one 

 approaches to take hold of them. 



This genus furnishes the most beautiful coleopterous in- 

 sects which can adorn either the domain of nature, or the 

 cabinet of the naturalist. Most part of the species are clothed 

 with such brilliant colours, that Geoffroy has thought proper 

 to designate them all under the generic appellation of 

 Richard. The origin of this name is as singular as its appli- 

 cation is fantastical. It was originally given to the jay, in 

 consequence of the facility with which that bird was taught 

 to pronounce the word. In the buprestes we find the bril- 



