THE INSECT WORLD. 



177 



inch in length, with the edges of the thorax toothed, are excep- 

 tions in habit, though not in form, and often infest granaries, 

 mills, and stables. The adult as well as its larva is frequently 

 found in mangers or in neglected little masses of meal, flour, or 

 grain, in which they breed. Cleanliness is the best remedy when 

 these insects become abundant : allow no partly emptied boxes 

 or bags to lie about, keep current supplies covered or tied up, 

 and sweep out corners at short intervals. Bisulphide of carbon, 

 where its application is possible, is an effective remedy, readily 

 destroying the beetles as well as their larvae. 



Fig. 153. Fig. 154- Fig- i55- 



Atomaria ephippiata. Corticaria pumila. Cryptophagus croceus. 



There are other, yet smaller beetles found in similar situations 

 in less numbers, and these belong to allied families. They may 

 be brown, not more than one-sixteenth of an inch in length, with 

 an oval body and narrow thorax, and then they are probably 

 species of Corticar^ia ; they may be of similar color, but with the 

 thorax and body more nearly of a width, and then they may 

 belong to Atomaria or Cryptophagus ; or they may be equally 

 minute but flattened, black, with red or yellow spots or bands on 

 the elytra, and then they probably belong to Litai-gus. All may 

 be treated as above suggested. 



We have a series of robust, small or moderate-sized beetles, 

 usually broad but sometimes narrowly oval, with small retracted 

 head, slender, moderately long legs, capable of being so closely 

 folded upon the breast as to be almost invisible, and with the 

 unpleasant habit of feeding upon dried animal substances, such 

 as furs, skins, woollens, museum specimens, meats, and the like. 



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