76 
EXPLANATION OF PLATE 46". 
Figs. 1 and 2 belong to the family of Curculionidm, of 
which the Diamond beetle is a familiar example. 
Tliey were discovered by Mr.Wm. Anstice in nodules 
of Iron stone from the Coal formation of Coalbrook 
Dale. 
Fig. 1 nearly resembles some of the South American 
types of Curculio, but the antennee are lonoer and 
O 
stronger than is usual in living species. Only the 
back of the head is visible, with faint indications of 
the place of the eyes ; the Rostrum is not apparent, 
it probably descends into the Iron stone beneath, 
and this position will explain the appearance and 
place of the Antennae. 
Tlie Elytra seem to have been connate towards 
their lower extremity, but their line of junction is 
visible towards the Thorax. The substance of the 
Elytra and Thorax, and of portions of the legs is 
replaced by white Iron ore, having the lustre of 
Satin. 
Mr. Curtis conceives that the tufted appearance 
of the legs may have been caused by fungi formed 
after death, as often happens in tropical climates. 
The enlargement of the Femur of the hindmost leg 
in our fossil is a character peculiar to the Curcu- 
lionidse.* (Original.) 
Fig. 2. Mr. Samouelle considers this extinct fossil spe- 
cies to approach most nearly to the Brachycerus 
apterus of Africa.^ (Original.) 
* Until more perfect data are found, on which generic characters 
can be established, I propose to designate this Insect by the pro- 
visional name of Curculioides Ansticii. 
+ The animal lies on its back with the left side raised upwards 
and exhibiting a portion of the exterior surface of the left Elytron. 
At a. t.are the remains of antennse, and near the base of «, ap- 
