112 S. H. Scudder—Devonian Insects. 
apparition of that group. This, however, is so improbable on 
any hypothesis, that we must conclude the record to be defec- 
ive. 
Pseudoneuroptera, and also show no special affinity to true 
Neuroptera other than is found in Paleodictyoptera. A fifth 
(Homothetus), which has comparatively little in common with 
the Paleodictyoptera, is perhaps more nearly related to the 
true Neuroptera than to the Pseudoneuroptera, although its 
pseudoneuropterous characters are of a striking nature. Of 
the sixth (Dyscritus) the remains are far too imperfect to judge 
clearly, but the choice lies rather with the Pseudoneuroptera 
or with Homothetus. e Devonian insects are then about 
equally divided in structural features between Neuroptera 
proper and Pseudoneuroptera, and none exhibit any special 
orthopterous, hemipterous or coleopterous characteristics. 
4. Nearly all are synthetic types of a comparatively narrow 
range. This has been stated in substance in the prece na 
u 
5. Nearly ali bear marks of affinity to the Carboniferous Palwo- 
dictyoptera, either in the reticulated surface of the wing, 1% 
longitudinal neuration, or But 
some, such as Gerephemera and Xenoneura, in which the 
r ance is marked. Most of the species, however, even 
including the two mentioned, show paleeodictyopterous charac 
ters only on what might be called the neuropterous side ; and 
their divergence from the Carboniferous Paleodictyoptera 18 
so great that they can scarcely be placed directly with the mass 
