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Curtis British Entomology Plate 444
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Curtis British Entomology Plate 444
Diptera: Molophilus brevipennis = Molophilus ater (Short-winged Mountain Gnat) [Plant: Gentiana verna (Spring Gentian)] Date: 1824-39
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Media ID 23039686
© The Robin Symington Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library
1820s 1830s Ater Butterflies Butterfly Curtis Diptera Entomology Gentian Gentiana Gnat Ledipotera Spring Verna
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This image is taken from Curtis's British Entomology, Plate 444, featuring the Short-winged Mountain Gnat (Molophilus ater), with the Spring Gentian (Gentiana verna) in the foreground. The plate, published between 1824 and 1839, is a testament to the intricate detail and accuracy of natural history illustration during the 19th century. The Short-winged Mountain Gnat, also known by its scientific name Molophilus brevipennis, is a small, dark-winged fly belonging to the family Ledipteran, specifically the suborder Diptera. This species is commonly found in mountainous regions, as suggested by its name. The gnat's short wings are folded tightly against its body in this illustration, a characteristic feature that distinguishes it from other species in its family. The Spring Gentian, a beautiful and rare plant, is depicted in full bloom in the foreground of the plate. With its vibrant blue-violet flowers, this plant is a delight to the eye and is a popular sight in alpine meadows during the spring season. The Spring Gentian is a member of the Gentianaceae family and is native to Europe and Asia. John Curtis, FLS, was a prominent British botanist and entomologist, who dedicated his life to the study and documentation of the natural world. His meticulous work on British Entomology, which included over 1,000 plates, remains an invaluable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike. This particular plate, with its exquisite illustration of the Short-winged Mountain Gnat and the Spring Gentian, is a stunning example of the beauty and complexity of the natural world that Curtis sought to capture and preserve for future generations.
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