l 9 2 the study of insects. 
upon the wings. With some of the lower moths the scales 
are scattered irregularly over 
the wings. But if the wing of 
one of the higher butterflies be 
examined with a microscope, 
the scales will be found arranged 
in regular, overlapping rows; 
the arrangement being as reg¬ 
ular as that of the scales on a 
fish or of the shingles on a roof 
(Fig. 231). In the upper part 
of the figure the membrane is 
Fig. 231. Part of wingof butterfly, represented with the scales re- 
greatly magnified. r 
moved. 
The use of the scales on the wings is to strengthen them. 
We thus see that the wings of these insects are furnished 
with much fewer cross veins than are the wings of similar 
size in other orders. A secondary use of these scales is that 
of ornamentation ; for the beautiful colors and markings of 
these insects are due entirely to the scales, and are destroyed 
when the scales are removed. Upon the body, legs, and 
Fig. 232.—Maxillae of cotton-moth, and tip of same enlarged. 
other appendages, the scales and hairs doubtless serve to 
protect the insect, being a sort of armor. 
The mouth-parts of moths and butterflies are especially 
adapted for sucking nectar from flowers. If the head of a 
butterfly be examined, there will be found a long sucking 
