14 
hairs along the sides, but their bases are covered so that 
they are not visible. It may be observed by some, that 
this is the imperfect or larva state of some insect ; but it is 
scarcely probable that we shall ever see it in its perfect 
state; and to those who do not know the difference, it 
may be an useful piece of information to show that certain 
insects in the larva state nearly resemble their more perfect 
or latter state*. 
In the lower pari of this plate we represent an Acarus, 
which we call A. amictus. It was found among moss, 
Hypnum molluscum, and was not only clothed with a 
high load of fragments, but had bits of beetles, green and 
gold wings, which gave it a brilliant appearance, as it is 
otherwise in itself a very ordinary-looking insect. It puts us 
in mind of the fable of the jackdaw dressed in peacock’s 
feathers. 
Acarus corliatla, Little Basket Mite. — This minute ani- 
mal is formed so like a basket, by the flatness of the back, 
and the hairs placed in order round the edges, (some up- 
right and some looped,) that it is distinct from any other 
wo know of before described. It does not however seem to 
be used as a basket, nor have we ever seen it clothe itself. 
We find them not so rate as at first suspected. These are 
also from the same place as the last. 
Dr. M'Culloch (in Linn. Trans, v. 6. t. 31. p. 369.) 
has given an account of Cancer phalangium, a kind of 
spider-like crab, clothing itself to deceive its prey ; and I 
received a specimen lately of the same species of Crab, 
clothed with Sertularia loriculata , from Scotland, by favour 
of James Brodie, Esq. The Sertularia was laid in tile-like 
order, — a good confirmation of Dr. M‘Cu!loch’s position. 
* Insects, such as Beetles, Butterflies, are known to change from the form 
of caterpillars, maggots, or Iarvas. The chrysalis or pupa to a perfect Beetle 
is seldom seen ; but those of other insects are very common. This is pro- 
bably the larva of an Ilemerobius. 
