Page:Jardine Naturalist's library Entomology.djvu/213

Rh have just been treating, most authors agree in placing the important one above named. This position, in the series of ordinal groups, it has obtained in consequence of presenting many properties in common with the coleoptera; some of the older entomologists, indeed, regarded them as so closely allied, as not to admit of separation. But this opinion could only result from an imperfect acquaintance with their respective characters; for in the present instance, the peculiarities are sufficiently distinctive and important, fully to entitle this order to the rank which it now holds.

The name having been applied in conformity with what has been called the Alary system in entomology, has reference to the nature and peculiarities of the organs of flight. These are found to be folded longitudinally when at rest, and straight,  wings, affords a term indicating this disposition. As in the preceding order, the wings are four in number. The anterior pair are of a pretty stiff substance, resembling parchment, serving both for the purpose of protecting the inferior wings, and also assisting in flight. In the former respect, they perform the same service as elytra, but in the latter share in a function to which elytra cannot be said to be directly subservient. Instead, therefore, of having that name applied to them, as is often done, it is better that they should have a distinctive appellation of their own; and of the various terms that have been used, tegmina seems the most appropriate. In far the greater number of instances, they do not form a straight line along the back, where