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| DIRECTOR Kidist Armando |
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In it the plantar surface of the foot is covered largely with imbricated scales and a few short hairs; between the hooka there is a large central boss densely covered with long hairs ; behind this, as we examine it from below, is what appears to be a hollow cap of a triangular shape, its apex being directed forwards. It is evidently hollow and appears puckered inwards, where the pillar by which it is connected with the foot is inserted.
In the honey bee this peculiar structure is replaced by a membraniform expansion, in which I can see a faint resemblance to the organ on the foot of the scorpion fly. There is a division into two parts and a connecting link between them; but in this instance the two sides appear to be united into one thickness, or at least to be very near to each other. Fig. 17.
This expansion is covered with minute hairs and may be used as a sort of plastering trowel in the formation of the honey comb, as well as for purposes of locomotion. It possesses another expansion densely covered with large hairs, by which it is enabled to attach itself to smooth surfaces.
We find, as we continue our enquiries, that this central organ has an office very similar to that of the ordinary discs attached to the feet of the muscce and other insects. That they are in fact nothing more than sticking or adhesive flaps, strengthened each in its own particular way, and which are packed up when not in use.
This is well shown, by the examination of the foot of the wasp and hornet, in which this central expansion is developed to the utmost.