Illustrations of Exotic Entomology, Volume 2 — John Shaqi
Illustrations of Exotic Entomology, Volume 2Drury, Dru
Science
Illustrations of Exotic Entomology, Volume 2
Drury, Dru
Insects -- Pictorial works
climate, in case of necessity, or perhaps even as an article of luxury,
might be found the same.
"The caterpillars of certain beetles, from his account, are the greatest
delicacies of the hot regions. They might, in some degree, be found to be
so here. The palm-worm of the West Indies, which is sought at a monstrous
expense, is the caterpillar or maggot of a beetle, of the same genus with
that small beetle, which is produced from the maggot or caterpillar in a
hazel-nut or filberd. This is often eaten here, and esteemed by those who
do so as more delicate than the nut itself.
"The Cantharides is a _green_ beetle. A green beetle of our own, _Cerambyx
Moschatus_, is found capable of raising blisters; and other _green_ beetles
may probably have the same effect.
"The butterflies that are found in the cultivated spots of Africa, have in
shape and appearance a strong resemblance to many of ours, particularly the
white ones. These seldom visit the thick woods; but, when seen in any
number, are certain indications of neighbouring plantations. This
observation might save the lives of bewildered travellers: as in some
instances it might be dangerous to enter into a very large wood, or a thick
part of it; in others again, immediate safety might be the consequence of
leaving a forest, by following the indications of an open or cultivated
spot. The analogy between the colours, the dispositions, and the qualities
of insects, may yet be greater, and between insects, and the plants on
which they feed, still more useful; for if an insect is found in one part
of the world to feed on a plant useful in food, medicine, or manufactures,
an insect of a similar appearance, in another part of the world, will in
all probability be found to feed on a plant of similar virtues. We do not
know but insects may affect, when perfect, to frequent different soils; or
to visit the recesses, where valuable drugs remain hid from human search,
and useless to mankind.
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