Curtis British Entomology Plate 718

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Curtis British Entomology Plate 718

Coleoptera: Phytosus spinifer Curtis [Plant: Zannichellia palustris (Horned Pondweed)] Date: 1824-39

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Media ID 23040680

© The Robin Symington Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library

1820s 1830s Butterflies Butterfly Coleoptera Curtis Entomology Horned Ledipotera Palustris Pondweed

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "Coleoptera: Phytosus spinifer" from Curtis's British Entomology, showcases the intricate details of a beetle species (Phytosus spinifer) that once graced the wetlands of 19th-century Britain. The image, published between 1824 and 1839, was meticulously produced under the direction of John Obadiah Westwood, FLS, one of the most prominent naturalists of the time. The beetle is depicted perched atop a delicate specimen of Horned Pondweed (Zannichellia palustris), a common aquatic plant in European wetlands. The plant's distinctive horned structures can be seen in the foreground, adding an element of natural beauty to the composition. The beetle, a member of the family Ledipodidae, is characterized by its elongated, slender body and distinctive antennae, which are adorned with small, spiny projections. The intricate patterns on its elytra (wing cases) and the delicate veining on its wings are also clearly visible in this expertly rendered illustration. This print is an excellent example of the high-quality work produced during the golden age of British entomology. The meticulous attention to detail and the accurate representation of both the beetle and the plant species are a testament to the skill and dedication of the naturalists and illustrators of the time. The 1820s and 1830s were a period of great advancement in the study of entomology, with many new species being discovered and documented. This print is a valuable contribution to the scientific record and a beautiful reminder of the natural wonders that can be found in even the most seemingly ordinary environments.

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