ochrysalids split open transversely behind the head and
lengthwise down the whole of the median line of the back, except the
last two or three segments. From it emerges the tertiary larva, which,
from a simple examination with the pocket-lens, appears to me, in its
general features, identical with the secondary larva, the one which
eats the Tachytes' provisions. It is naked and pale-yellow, the colour
of butter. It is active and wriggles with awkward movements.
Ordinarily it lies upon its side, but it can also stand in the normal
position. The creature is then trying to use its legs, without finding
sufficient purchase to enable it to walk. A few days later, it
relapses into complete repose.

Thirteen segments, including the head, which is large, with a
quadrilateral cranium, rounded at the sides. Short antennae,
consisting of three knotted joints. Powerful curved mandibles, with
two or three little teeth at the end, of a fairly bright red. Labial
palpi rather bulky, short and with three joints, like the antennae.
The mouth-parts, labrum, mandibles and palpi are movable and stir
slightly, as though seeking food. A small brown speck near the base of
each antenna, marking the place of the future eyes. Prothorax wider
than the segments that come after it. These are all of one width and
are distinctly divided by a furrow and a slight lateral rim. Legs
short, transparent, without a terminal claw. They are three-jointed
stumps. Pale stigmata, eight pairs of them, placed as in the
pseudochrysalis, that is, the first and largest pair on the line
dividing the first two segments of the thorax and the seven others on
the first seven abdominal segments. The secondary larva and the
pseudochrysalis also have a very small stigma on the penultimate
segment of the abdomen. This stigma has disappeared in the tertiary
larva; at least I cannot detect it with the aid of a good
magnifying-glass.

Lastly, we find the same strong mandibles as in the secondary larva,
the same feeble legs, the same appearance of a Weevil-grub. The
movements return, but are less clearly marked than in the primary
form. The passage through the pseudochrysalid state has led to no
change that is really worth describing. The creature, after this
singular phase, is what it was before. The Meloes and Sitares, for
that matter, behave similarly.

Then what can be the meaning of this pseudochrysalid stage, which,
when passed, leads precisely to the point of departure?