35 



Genus XII. HISPA. 



GENERIC CHARACTER. 



Antenna spindle-shaped, i. e. gradually thick- 

 ening from each extremity towards the mid- 

 dle; approximating at the base, and situated 

 between the eyes. Maxilla bifid, the ex- 

 terior division very small. Palpi four, short 

 and filiform. Thorax and Elytra in general 

 aculeated. Tarsi with four articulations, 

 the third large and bilobate, the two first 

 triangular. 



General Observations. 



The insects belonging to this genus have an 

 oblong body, in some species covered with little 

 spines; in others, striated, rough, or shining. 

 Of their habits and manners but little is known. 

 They live on different plants, and some species 

 are found on the upper stems of grasses, from 

 whence they fall voluntarily the moment you 

 attempt to seize them. Olivier found one spe- 

 cies in the South of France on a Cistus. No- 

 thing is known at present of the larva, 



