G. S. Graham-Smith 
357 
25 (0-6 per cent.) of these parasites emerged, though throughout the season 
from June to October the adult parasites were constantly present amongst 
the larvae, presumably with the intention of ovipositing. 
From the exposed carcase of a small animal fluid soon exudes, and in 
places the surface of the carcase becomes semi-liquid. In these situations very 
small larvae are numerous. Folds in the skin of the carcase, or crevices in 
the meat, contain similar material. The Figitids are usually found walking 
over the semi-liquid material where they may be seen making frequent, quick, 
stabbing movements with their ovipositors, which are very long and fine. 
These parasites oviposit in very small larvae only. Sometimes the larvae 
selected are near the surface and visible, but often they are buried in semi¬ 
fluid material and are probably quite invisible to the parasite. In such cases 
the larvae appear to be discovered with the aid of the ovipositor. The process 
Fig. 3. Figites sp. $. x20. $ antenna. abdomen, side view. 
Fig. 4. Figites sp. $. Side view showing position of wings when walking in wet material. 
of oviposition occupies 1 to 2 minutes. When in search of larvae amid wet and 
slimy surroundings or when penetrating into crevices in putrid meat, the 
Figitids walk in a peculiar manner with the wings folded over the back and 
the terminal portions bend downwards and closely applied to the dorsal 
surface of the abdomen. The wings look as if soiled, but this is not the case 
for on being alarmed they fly off easily, and the position seems to be adopted 
for the purpose of protecting the wings. 
Neither under experimental nor natural conditions were the Figitids seen 
to attack any but very small larvae. They took no notice of eggs, large 
larvae or puparia. 
