1864.] 
467 
parasites in their habits.* Consequently to the same natural family 
Figitldse, there will appertain, according to the above classification, a 
gall-producing fiy (Diasfrophus), Gruest gall-fiies (Aulax % and Am- 
blynotm S $ ) and internal parasites, (^Flgites and Allotria.^ This is 
possible, but exceedingly improbable. 
5th. In Figitidse (as defined above) the suture connecting the 2nd 
and 3rd abdominal joints is a connate one and only indicated by a very 
faint stria, perceptible in some specimens of a given species and scarcely 
perceptible in others. I assert this after a careful examination of nu¬ 
merous specimens of several distinct species. Practically, therefore, 
such a classification as that above quoted is unreliable. 
6th. By the above arrangement such genera as Amblynotus^ which 
have a general family likeness to Cynipidse, and agree in their habits 
with the Inquilinous group of that family, are separated therefrom and 
classed with Figites^ a parasitic genus to which they have scarcely any 
family likeness. 
Let us compare Cynips and Figites^ and see if other distinctive cha¬ 
racters cannot be pointed out, which shall be somewhat more definite 
-t 
and more easily recognizable. Figure I represents the abdomen of 
Cynips quercus acicidata 9 0. S. with the organs of oviposition ex- 
serted. Fig. II the tip of the same with the organs as in repose. Fig. 
Ill the abdomen of Figites (diplolepiF) b-lineatus 9 Say, and Fig. IV 
the venter of the same, which, except its extreme tip, is completely 
enclosed and hidden by the dorsal joints as an oyster is enclosed and 
Some Figites,” says Latreille, are delighted with human excrement.” 
( G-en. Or. et Ins. IV, p. 19.) Doubtless they oviposit in the soft dung-feeding 
laiwte that abound there. I found a beautiful undescribed Braconide swarming 
in South Illinois, in a similar situation. 
