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His Curious and Unique Method of Defence.
But it is not so much his odd shape as a most extraordinary property he possesses, which is singularly unique in the animal kingdom, that makes him an object of interest and curiosity. Deep down in his most marvellous body a fluid, highly volatile in its nature, is elaborated, which the little creature can retain or expel at his pleasure. It is only, however, when alarmed that he utilizes this fluid in small quantities in defense, but its effect is wonderful, for in coming into contact with the atmosphere it immediately volatilizes and explodes, looking very much like a discharge of powder from a miniature artillery. In consequence of this phenomenon the insect which produces it is popularly called the Bombardier Beetle.

Author

Intelligence in Plants and Animals
Thomas George Gentry
Published 1900
Available from gutenberg.org

Posted on

Saturday 20 February 2021

Dimensions

1181*1000

Tags

Insects

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• Natural History / Insects

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