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Longitudinal Section Showing Pupa in Two Positions.

In localities where the soil is low and swampy, a remarkable chamber is built up by the larva, where the pupa may be found awaiting the time of its change to the winged state. These chambers were first noticed by S. S. Rathvon, at Lancaster, Pa., and are from four to six inches above the ground, and have a diameter of one inch and a quarter. When ready to emerge the insect backs down to an opening which is left in the side of the structure on a level with the surface of the ground, issues forth and undergoes its transformation in the usual manner. This peculiar habit of nest-building, which is so unlike what is customary with the Cicadidæ, or with Hemiptera in general, points to a high degree of intelligence among these insects, showing a remarkable ability to adapt themselves to environing circumstances.

Author

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

Posted on

Saturday 20 February 2021

Dimensions

1191*1035

Tags

Animal Housing, Insects

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• Natural History / Insects

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