It was stated in a recent number (folio 204), that Micropeplus 
appeared to be related to Onthophilus *, and having now 
yiven the generic characters of both, I shall only observe, that 
the strong resemblance between the antennae, the maxillary 
palpi, and even the legs, are evident proofs of their close 
affinity. 
The greatest confusion has existed respecting the two little 
insects that compose this genus, arising from Fabricius having 
in his Entomologia Systematica , applied to one species syno- 
nyms which belonged to the other. Schbnherr has, how- 
ever, with his usual sound judgement rectified these errors, 
and subsequent writers have availed themselves of his correc- 
tions. 
Neither of the species recorded being noticed by Gyllenhal, 
it may be presumed that they are not found in a very northern 
latitude ; in this country the 1st species is very rare, and 
the 2nd common. 
1. O. sulcatus Fab., Nob. 
The first specimen, I believe, that was discovered in Britain 
of this rare insect was found by myself in a gravel pit on Great 
Witchingham Heath, Norfolk, the 24th Aug. 1810; from 
the number of specimens which Dr. Leach possessed, it must 
have subsequently been taken in plenty ; it is stated to inhabit 
dung and putrid carcases in the spring. 
2. O. striatus Forst., Cent. — Gmel. — -Marsh. — Fab. — PayJc . 
pi. 11./ 1. — sulcatus Ross. — Oliv. 1 . tab. 1./. 6. — Sturm. 
Deut. Faun.pl. 19./ D. 
This beautifully sculptured little beetle is not uncommon in 
June and July in the dung of horses on the marshes of Nor- 
folk and various parts of the kingdom. When disturbed it 
contracts its legs similarly to the Byrrhi, and then exactly 
resembles a seed. 
The plant is Gentiana Amarella (Autumnal Gentian), com- 
municated by the Rev. Professor Henslow. 
* At the folio above referred to it was by accident printed Onthophagus. 
