a
a aghaiatel Pnctntiabetigbe tate hose
setatetatatet werrur
wnetgtetichoiahctohe?
, haliateall ened eee.

he Py whenel?

- sa aires
. fet ee eee tte

-

Patan ren
ate

ee eared
where! Ppparetetrns :

eS ee tet et ee BON
arene tone ow A rat See are erate
adie et ee eee Ce NE ed Natal ‘epee

Sete cet Pole EN
oe eee penetaeet get eral ent Pree
~v : Pcinetwhatiatnnataiee te ee anid
; : pl ane ak ww

he COE eee n

> aatied

ill

STi
ole

ctee~
EROS eet - .
, eit oe eT eer
ote A cna tehatt pelene es
ne nahn nett n NTT were res
ahapon er

dere
Se led

pee Aare rw
ee nit os

pebaeh. poet ok ee de: ol elee Ace Cpe J : Uimeweges anit we wy ss UU e
ia , 2 ye ibis pp Said Sp og ih th : ‘ ew i s Bet So Sa e re ofS ae, & iw)
ee EP EER beh) 1) nse OR vv eh { aie

4

aay way, ' ‘e
dl N, WY AS le eS S Ge MAC A SN NAL

A Wi AAS cf gs So

My NIT UMMC PTR AI teoee Tien Um Wiley

{ AA Uy J vey Tt
ne hires yee Ss oes pa Th ts eee ena a “ a eee
eg ad se Pett EC ha -vvy ee | eg 4 TENE OI Oe |
winged Kes Howey ee y aden AH Veer 4 ye we / vende? ist : yw
Stl Be ey ARIA IO AMAA { a a : Ped veer” yt ae PALAIS LRAP JAK Abd me

ae [o, We. oT am eave? "wd Wy, ae: odd. Ure Sel $95 ae vee “ule yN ¥ ic :
“en vi Wise FT alle wt
ei 4 oj4 2 AAS 9 ore RIAA J ; i

eee SCL Bhs
Syybwywyya7 oo wy
steel mi fi er
d hAJ 4 4 tL G HOS
ia 4 EN eet

i ish n
FB ‘ s ae V¥eg UL yee } i ad E
= sala 1 2 SNe ag “wey, ay So aetna
we fede Wet = Oy siren aL ees

vA df we Wied

Ww

N ~~~ 4 “en 4 a!
i pia dA Pires Venere tenet —Peisiol dt: ea oer ve . “kbd AAS,

carat Grnaws ne WWdyy ac eee
en a aeae :

ewe dss . AM IA

Phe oh Rode

i eX = Ne
~

“ wWWws w. nf taba fe ‘= Voy Y
; gist Scilla POON CaO: ea

J

CU

Dnata Wael che f eb yuy¥

wanO¥O rw. ies

ATI JI AAAI PN PPT) a | | | ier ss.
we w NS heheh —— wv Rah PARRY Lev Na ‘ me eye Syet~
ee Pied pt sais ieee sean yor aye” Pie wee
sunnven Sorte et, tenet
ch AS eee
Weer tel a,
ad bd save’
J |
avy wud wd ;
$ Sng "aban eae ~~ _YV AY

ws J 3 Sieber debd hel ORE e ’ uae ¥ Senter ;
¢ ad vw see ccamaynyentied alia Ww be gern JJ

: e,;, |
SA had vey yeh we vee vv AAS pate V 'y vv
vd vv? vw thy Voy RAC Se eV wy thy ‘v f =
Waiver Wutecherree el pera wattrwell eucyit yey UL teer Me SUxtiep A
\ Oe he eee 6S we OL ¥ wv \ . ty i
ee ee eee RAR ETEERT Spe, oe Ley MTT

eos. DEPARIWENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 64, Part I.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN
TEXAS IN 1906.

AS Wee MOR REA,

Special Field Agent.

IssueD APRIL 2, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

LOOT

CONT EaNeless

Page.
Introduction =.-.=—2_—_=- 22s. 8 ee ee 1
An associated: species: 2 222.232 ee eee 2
General agricultural conditions at Barst0w."lex==3222 = PE
Damage to crops previous 10) 1905222 eee 2
Crops damaged in 1905-2 22---2._2. = eee 3
Alfalfa ~_..2-+-=+=—~+222.5223 55225225 = 3
Milo maize -22.--h2256 p22 U Se 2 esse 2 ee sab:
Cotton =.= 2-20 Sek ee ee ee ee ee 6
Peaches _.-2 2i2s*2 225) Jase eee Se oS eee 6
Grapes 2-224 22 ee ee es Se a ee ee tt
Garden. vegetables = ls eb Se ee ee 7
Other food plantss== <= Ses eee eS Ss 2 ee 8
Seasonal-‘history2 = oe 25S ae ee ee ee eee 8
Natural, enemiess22 2202 seh Be ude ee Oe a ae ee ee 9
HWgg Pardsites 234 2 en ee es a a a ee 9
Tachinid parasiteshess es is ee ee ee 11
Predaceous enemies) 222 S22 eu = Se ee ee ial
Methods. of contrelia 22S Ss eS eS eee fli
Avoidance of injury. to the Seed ‘croprok alia ieee een ee an;
A suggestion as to mechanical contrivances for collecting the insects__ 12
Preventive and protective measures =.= ee eee 13.
Remedies when crops other than alfalfa are attacked _________-_____ 14
[LEUST RA TEGMS
PLATE.

Page.

PLATE I. Fig. 1—Egg batch of Pentatoma ligata, showing hatched and

unhatched eggs. Fig. 2.—Egg batch of Pentatoma ligata
parasitized by Telenomus ashmeadi____-—____— eee 10

TEXT FIGURES.

Iria. 1. The conchuela (Pentatoma ligata) : adult, egg mass, eggs___-____ A
2. Telenomus ashmeadi, an egg parasite of Pentatoma ligata________ 10

II

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bull. 64, Part I. Issued April 2, 1907.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS Or THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905.
(Pentatoma ligata Say.)¢

By A. W. MorgiILu,
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

In a recent bulletin of the Bureau of Entomology ” the writer gave
an account of the Mexican conchuela (Pentatoma ligata Say, fig. 1),
based upon an investigation conducted in northern Mexico in Septem-
ber, 1904. It was predicted that should the pest ever become very
abundant in this country, where more diversified farming is usually
practiced, it would be likely to affect a wide range of farm crops
instead of confining its attacks to cotton alone. Almost unknown in
1903, the conchuela, as it is called by the natives of Mexico, first be-
came of considerable importance as a cotton pest in the leading cotton
district of Mexico—the “ Laguna ”—and in 1904 established its repu-
tation as an enemy of alfalfa in western Texas by ruining in specific
instances seed valued at over $1,000, representing the loss to the crops
of two growers from whom definite reports were obtained. This loss
in western Texas was, however, first made known to entomologists in
July of the following year (1905), through correspondence of a resi-
dent of Barstow, Tex., with Mr. W. D. Hunter, in charge of the inves-
tigations on cotton insects conducted by this Bureau. <As the writer
was at that time in Mexico, continuing his investigations of this pest,
Mr. J. C. Crawford was sent to Barstow to investigate the economic
status of the insect there. His preliminary observations were made
on July 20 to 22, inclusive, and were followed by visits to Barstow
by the writer on August 11 and 12 and September 12, and by Mr.
Crawford on October 13 and November 14. The reports of Mr.
Crawford, which were duly submitted to Mr. Hunter, have been
freely used by the writer in preparing this paper.

aOrder Hemiptera, family Pentatomide.
> Bul. 54, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., pp. 18-34, 1905.

2 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.
AN ASSOCIATED SPECIES.

An allied pentatomid, the grain bug’ (Pentatoma sayi Stal),
was found at Barstow associated with the conchuela. In 1905 this
species was not plentiful enough to cause much damage to crops by
itself, but as the character of its injury and that of the conchuela is
the same it is necessary to consider the two species together when they
are found on the same food plant. In this case they were found
together only on alfalfa and Milo maize, although the grain bug is
known to have a wide range of food plants and probably is fully as
general in its feeding habits as is the conchuela. The history of the
former species as a pest antedates, even in western Texas, that of
the latter, for as long ago as December, 1895, specimens of Pentatoma
say? were received by this Bureau from Toyahvale, Reeves County,
Tex., with a report that they had destroyed 40 acres of peas and 2
acres of lima beans on the correspondent’s farm. It is interesting to
note that this report came from a point not 50 miles from Barstow.
Since that time this species has earned a bad reputation by its de-
structiveness to wheat and oats in Colorado and elsewhere.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL CONDITIONS AT BARSTOW, TEX.

Ward County, of which Barstow is the county seat, is situated in
western Texas, a short distance south of the southeastern corner of
New Mexico. With the exception of a narrow valley along the river
the country consists of high rolling prairie covered in large part with
a short growth of mesquite and sage. Being in the arid region the
rainfall is too light to be depended on for agricultural purposes and
all crops are grown under irrigation, a practice which began with the
settlement of the county in 1891. Water for irrigation is obtained
from the Pecos River, and at present about 10,000 acres are under
cultivation in the county. Of this area, in 1905, about 5,000 acres
were devoted to cotton and the greater part of the remainder to
grapes, peaches, and alfalfa. The elevation of Barstow is about
2,500 feet above the sea level.

DAMAGE TO CROPS PREVIOUS TO 1905.

According to residents of Barstow who are best informed concern-
ing the conchuela, the insect never, previous to 1904, attacked crops
of any kind in sufficient numbers to attract attention. As far as
can be learned there had been, previous to that time, no attempt
to produce a seed crop of alfalfa. The occurrence of this pest on
cotton in moderate numbers is not likely to be associated with the

a1n using this common name for this species the writer follows Prof. C. P.
Gillette. Bul. 94, Colo. Exp. Sta.,-p. 3, Dec., 1904.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 3

injury which usually first becomes apparent upon the opening of
the bolls. The most notable losses in 1904, which with little doubt
were due to the conchuela, were on the farms of Mr. C. E. Pierce
and Miller Brothers. The former had 120 acres of alfalfa which
was cut for the seed crop about the middle of July, from 150 to 200
pounds of seed per acre being expected. It was noticed that this
insect was very abundant in the field, but the extent of the damage
was fully realized only when an average of 834 pounds of seed per
acre was obtained. At the prevailing value of 12 cents per pound
the estimated loss was from $8 to $14 per acre, or from $960 to
$1.680 for the entire field. The 10 acres of alfalfa belonging to
Miller Brothers should have produced at least 150 pounds of seed
per acre, according to general estimates, but so much of the seed
was ruined, supposedly by the conchuela, that the yield was reduced
to 60 pounds per acre. The average loss per acre was estimated
as at least $10. Other losses of this kind occurred in Ward County
during 1904, but the information obtainable concerning them is less
definite. According to one report, alfalfa growers at two other
points in the Pecos River Valley—Grand Falls and Toyah Creek—
experienced a failure with a seed crop of alfalfa in that year which
they attributed to “ weevil,” a term commonly applied to the cause of
such losses even before an insect has been located upon which to place
the responsibility. In this case the writer believes that at least the
greater part of the losses in question can be safely considered as due
to the work of Pentatoma ligata, together with the grain bug,
Es SONt-
CROPS DAMAGED IN 1905.

ALFALFA.

Direct observations, both in western Texas and northern Mexico,
showed that fields devoted to alfalfa are capable of harboring the
conchuela in enormous numbers. In the Laguna district in Mexico
alfalfa has been grown for several years, but only for hay and forage.
and in comparatively small quantities on the cotton plantations. As
far as could be learned, previous to 1905 the pest here considered
never attracted attention on account of its occurrence in the alfalfa
fields, but in that year it became so abundant that at Tlahualilo,
State of Durango, upon the cutting of a crop, adjacent cotton fields
and a small vineyard were overrun by myriads of the insects, while
several miles distant at another plantation it was first brought to the
notice of the managers by appearing in large numbers in the troughs
in which green alfalfa was fed to stock. In these cases, no seed
crop being grown, the attack was limited to the leaves and stems.
The effect of the extensive feeding on these parts can not be definitely

4 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

stated, as in all cases where plants without seed were heavily in-
fested the cutting was made before the writer had an opportunity to
make an examination. According to report, however, no marked
effect upon the plant was produced in the instances here recorded,
and, accordingly, until more is known, we may assume that where
it is not intended to produce seed the principal danger incident to
the occurrence of the conchuela “in alfalfa fields lies in the fact
that a choice breeding place is furnished the insects, which may
multiply to enormous numbers and spread to other crops. This
phase of the subject will be discussed elsewhere in this paper and also
in a report on Heteroptera attacking the cotton plant.

Fic. 1.—The conchuela (Pentatoma ligata) : a, adult bug; b, egg mass on leaves; ¢, egg
after hatching, lid removed showing egg burster; d, egg before hatching, from above ;
e, egg from side, showing lid above exit hole; f, egg before hatching, from side; a, en-
larged 4 diam.; b, enlarged 22 diam.; ¢c-f, enlarged 9 diam. (Author’s illustration.)

Tn infested fields when the seed is present the bugs may be seen
clinging to the seed clusters extracting the rich juices by means of
their thread-like sete. The seed pod, when once fed upon, shrivels
and turns dark and is readily distinguished from uninjured seed
pods. No attempt has been made to determine how rapidly a bug
progresses with its destructive feeding, but as these insects are usually
observed to be engaged in this way as long as desirable food remains,
and as the individual seed is small, undoubtedly each one of the
insects is capable of destroying a very large number of the seed pods
during its existence.

Cutting of the alfalfa checks the multiplication of the pest, but
also has the effect of driving the bugs elsewhere in search of food,

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 5

often with more or less serious results to neighboring crops. It
should also be noted that the longer time required to produce a seed
crop is favorable to the production of large numbers of the insects.
Windrows of alfalfa hay, originally intended for thrashing for the
seed, in the field of Mr. Carson, at Barstow, were found to harbor
many adult conchuelas which were for the most part busily engaged
in destroying the last few seed clusters. It would thus appear that
the danger is not over with the cutting of the alfalfa. and that
thrashing should be. attended to as soon-as possible if the insects are
present and injury is to be avoided.

The only extensive damage to alfalfa by this insect at Barstow
during 1905 was on the farm of Mr.’J. P. Carson. Other growers,
owing to their experience of the previous year, decided to grow no
seed crop; thus indirectly many suffered a loss which should be
charged up to the insect, as an average crop of seed has g value equa!
to several times that of a single cutting for hay. Mr. Carson had 55
acres ready for cutting for the seed the last week in July, but the
damage by the bugs amounted to complete destruction, for although
the land was originally heavily seeded, there was not sufficient unin-
jured seed to defray the expense of thrashing. The loss was consid-
erably more than $1,500, in addition to the partial loss of a hay crop
in the extra time allowed for the maturity of the seed.

Miller Brothers in 1905 fortunately avoided the destructive work
of the insects and made a fair seed crop. At Barstow the interval
between cuttings for hay is on the average about four and one-half
veeks, while for the maturity of the seed an additional period of
about three and one-half weeks is necessary. Other farm work pre-
vented Miller Brothers from cutting their alfalfa when it was in
prime condition for cutting for hay. As the seed began to mature,
the scarcity of the pest which had proven so destructive the previous
season caused the owners to anticipate a successful seed crop. On Sep-
tember 13 the writer, who made a careful examination of the condi-
tion of the alfalfa field referred to, found the bugs scarce, as reported,
and the damage to the seed, which was already mature, very slight.
The yield of seed reported by Miller Brothers for the 10 acres was
1,499 pounds.

MILO MAIZE.

On August 11 a field of Milo maize was examined at Barstow, and
it was found that in certain spots a considerable proportion of the
seed was ruined, while more or less ruined seed could be found
throughout the field. According to the owner, Mr. Carson, the con-
chuelas had been very. abundant a week previous, as many as 25 of
the insects frequently being noted on a single seed head. They were
found to be generally distributed throughout the field on August 11,

6 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

but in small numbers, the largest number found on a single seed
head being five—two adults, two fourth-instar nymphs, and one fifth-
instar nymph. On the Milo maize, as on the alfalfa, Pentatoma
ligata was accompanied by P. sayz, but in more nearly equal numbers ;
this is not necessarily of any special significance, though possibly it
may indicate a preference of the latter species for the seed of the

grains.
COTTON.

The first examination for the conchuela in the cotton fields at
Barstow was on August 11, when of the five fields visited specimens
of the insect were found in all except one. In every case the number
of damaged bolls, although in small proportion, gave evidence of the
occurrence of the insect in somewhat larger numbers some weeks
previous. In one field an examination of 100 plants showed an in-
festation of 5 per cent of the plants, with 12 adults per 100 plants.
The damage to the bolls in this field amounted approximately to 15
per cent. Another field of about 10 acres was found to be damaged
to a less extent except for about one-half an acre near one side where,
of 60 bolls selected at random, 30 per cent were destroyed by bugs.
The writer estimates, as a result of personal examinations in many
fields at and near Barstow, that the average damage to cotton by the
conchuela in 1905 was about 10 per cent.

PEACHES.

Although peaches have been grown at Barstow for several years
we have no report of damage to the fruit by the conchuela or other
bugs until 1905, when the matter was reported by Mr. C. E. Pierce
and investigated, as stated in the introduction, by Mr. Crawford and
the writer. The attack was confined to the fruit of the earliest varieties
in their first fruiting season. The trees were located on the side of
the orchard adjacent to the 120-acre alfalfa field, the damage to the
seed crop of which in the previous year has already been mentioned.
Shortly after the 10th of July, coincident with the cutting of the
alfalfa, the bugs were noticed on the fruit of these trees, which pwas
just beginning to ripen. The trees soon became very heavily infested,
and on July 20 it was not uncommon to observe from 10 to 15 on a
single peach and in one instance 20 were counted. The tendency
of the conchuelas to congregate on certain individual peaches was
very marked, as has likewise been observed in their occurrence
upon cotton bolls. On the most heavily infested trees, owing to
this habit, many peaches at any given time seemed neglected, but
all on the attacked trees were ultimately destroyed. The injured
fruit became shrunken in spots and sponge-like to the touch, finally

@ Bul. 54, Bur. Ent., U. 8S. Dept. Agric., p.. 26, 1905.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. (i

falling to the ground. It was apprehended that the pests would
transfer their attention to the late peaches when these began to
ripen, and a few were observed to do so, but apparently when the
supply of early peaches was exhausted or rendered unfit for further
feeding, the late peaches were not mature enough to be attractive,
and consequently suffered practically no injury from this source.

GRAPES.

In 1905 at Barstow the fruit in the vineyards was in general
only slightly affected by Pentatoma ligata. The principal damage
was in the small gardens in town, where in certain instances the
destruction was practically complete. Probably owing to the large
area occupied by the vineyards and to the fect that the fruit of the
different varieties ripens at about the same time, no especial con-
centration of the insects in the large vineyards was noticed, and there
was no indication that any such concentration occurred. The ripe
fruit is preferred, although when the food supply is short it may be
attacked when immature. The injured berry shrivels and under the
influence of the hot sun soon becomes raisin-like.

At Tlahualilo, Durango, Mexico, on July 17, 1905, a vineyard of
about 10 acres with vines heavily loaded with fruit became thor-
oughly infested by direct migration from an adjacent alfalfa field
of adults and of nymphs in the last two instars. Each cluster of
erapes was attacked by several bugs, the maximum noted on a single
cluster being 25. Without consultation with the writer the grapes
were picked immediately upon discovery of the infestation, the pre-
sumption being that the removal of their food would serve as a
check to the insects, to the benefit of the cotton fields. This step
was, however, inadvisable, since the fruit, which was of compara-
tively small value, would have served as a trap at which the bugs
could have been easily destroyed when so thickly congregated. As
it was, the bugs gathered in groups of hundreds on the trellis posts
and on the vines, principally at the forks, where they were destroyed,
partly by spraying and partly by use of a gasoline-blast torch. The
last-mentioned method, while effective in its destruction of the pest,
injured the vines to a certain extent in nearly all cases.

GARDEN VEGETABLES.

Between the middle of July and the middle of August garden
crops at Barstow were affected to a considerable extent by this
destructive pest. Owing to the comparatively small amount of land
devoted to such crops, the actual money equivalent of the loss was
not great. The crops which suffered most were peas, beans, and
tomatoes. In each case the attack was restricted almost entirely to

8 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

the seed or fruit, thus accomplishing a maximum of damage. Under
another heading the writer has referred to the destruction of peas
and beans in Western Texas, not far from Barstow, by the grain
bug. Among other cases on record which give further evidence of
the losses pentatomid bugs may cause by their attacks on vegetables
is one quoted by H. G. Hubbard* from the report of a Florida
correspondent on his experience with a species commonly called the
ereen tree bug (Vezara hilaris Say). According to the report, this
species attacked cowpea vines before any seed was developed and
completely ruined 35 acres of this crop, so that no good seed was
obtained. A garden crop of tomatoes was also reported to have been
entirely destroyed, the ground under the vines being almost covered
by the fallen fruit. The injured fruit was deseribed as reddish-
yellow in color at the point punctured, and when cut was found to
be “ full of lumps and totally devoid of flavor.” These records of
the damage by other pentatomid bugs to general garden crops show
the extent to which the conchuela is capable of affecting these crops
when they are grown on a more extensive scale than was the case at
Barstow at the time the observations recorded in this paper were
made.
OTHER FOOD PLANTS.

The principal natural food plants of the conchuela are the mesquite
and related leguminous plants, the beans being the object of attack.
It would require more than one season’s observations to determine
how important is the connection between the abundance of mesquite
beans and the abundance of the insects on cultivated plants. It is
presumable that during the period when the insects are multiplying
most rapidly the abundance of rich food such as the mesquite bean
provides is an important factor in determining the amount of subse-
quent injury to crops. At Barstow, in addition to the mesquite and
the crops which have been separately discussed, the conchuela has
been found feeding on the fruit of peppers, on squash vines, and on
the leaves of yucca. It has also been reported on good authority to
have been observed in considerable numbers on corn, and the writer
has in Mexico found egg batches of this species attached to the green
leaves of corn. In general, the species may be said to be almost
omnivorous, showing a preference, however, for fruits and seeds.

SEASONAL HISTORY.

The multiplication of the conchuela in western Texas seems to fol-
low the same course as has been obseryed in northern Mexico; in
other words, the maximum number is reached between the middle and

@Report on Insects Affecting, the Orange. Div. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agric., Dp.
160, 1885. :

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 9

last of July, after which the number diminishes rapidly. The bugs
are strong fliers, which accounts for their sudden appearance on a
given crop, and in some cases for their sudden disappearence from it.

On July 20-22 no eggs or young could be found on the infested
peach trees, nor could any of these stages be found on August 11 and
12 after the adults had entirely disappeared from the trees. If any
egos were deposited by the bugs when the latter were attacking the
peaches the resulting nymphs were probably carried to the ground
with the falling of the fruit, for the interval between the examina-
tions was not sufficiently long for them to have reached the winged
or adult stage. The only breeding places of consequence found at
Barstow were in the alfalfa fields. Here eggs and nymphs were found
in large numbers on August 11 and 12. A ‘month later the insects
had been reduced by at least one-half, and their scarcity was noticeable
everywhere except in small areas in some fields of alfalfa and along
the borders near fences and ditches where the cuttings had not been
made at regular intervals. Of 32 adult pentatomids collected in the
alfalfa fields September 12, 26 were P. ligata and 6 P. sayi. At the
next examination, on October 13, it was evident that the insects were
still decreasing in numbers, but the nymphs in the last two stages
were proportionally more abundant than before. In the lot of 16
adults and 49 nymphs collected at that time, P. sayi was not repre-
sented. The last examination, made on November 14, showed that
the conchuelas had almost entirely disappeared; a half hour’s search
where, at the time of previous examinations, they had been found
most abundant, resulted in the capture of only 6 adults, no nymphs
being seen.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

EGG PARASITES.

Minute egg parasites belonging to the family Proctotrypide are
generally known among entomologists to play an important role in
checking the multiplication of many insects, so that anything which
affects the numbers of these parasites frequently results in a corre-
sponding benefit or injury to the crops attacked by the host insects.
If these parasites of the eggs of pentatomids were eliminated, many
of the pentatomids would undoubtedly be ranked among our most
important insect pests. The importance of these parasites in check-
ing the multiplication of the conchuela at Barstow in 1905 can be
best emphasized by summarizing the results obtained by rearing
parasites from eggs collected at that place.

10 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Summary of results obtained by rearing parasites from eggs of Pentatoma
ligata collected at Barstow, Tex., in 1905.

: if mols + Number

< ra P : Number | Per cent Per cent
4 , Number} Total Number| per cent! of para- | produc- of €888 lfailing to
When collected. ih ees number te Cees Hatched sites ing para- pee ties produce

atches. | of eggs. hatched.) * ; Siaren etal . y other 2
Be sites. i ss nymphs.

gencies. |

August 11-12......-- 6 | 181 35 19 41 22 0 | 81
September 12........ 13 | 246 20 | 8 | 148 54| . a5 92
Totalesa tere 19 427 55 13 189 | 44 35 87

a Representing two batches of 13 and 22 eggs, respectively. Presumably destroyed by ants, the
broken eggshells remaining.

Shrinking of the eggs, indicating infertility, occurred in no case
among the eggs included above. From the fact that adult para-
sites frequently fail to emerge from the egg of the host even after

SoS

Fia. 2.— Telenomus ashmeadi, an important egg parasite of Pentatoma ligata: Adult female and antenna
of male. Highly magnified (original).

breaking through the shell—and as far as observed it seldom occurs
in nature that eggs of the conchuela fail to hatch when not destroyed
by outside agencies—it may be concluded that practically all the
eggs appearing intact which failed to hatch were destroyed by the
parasites. In support of this supposition 10 eggs which neither
hatched nor from which live parasites emerged, selected at random
from the 19 batches above mentioned, were opened and each was
found to contain a dead adult parasite. The specimens bred from
the eggs of P. ligata and also of P. sayi from Barstow were all of the
same species and identified by Dr. William H. Ashmead, of the U. S.
National Museum, as a new species of the genus Telenomus (fig. 2).
The writer will describe the species under the name Zelenomus
ushmeadi. An egg batch of the conchuela containing hatched and
unhatched eggs is shown in Plate I, figure 1, and a parasitized egg
batch in Plate I, figure 2.

Bul. 64, Part |, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE |.

FiG. 1.—EGG BATCH OF CONCHUELA (PENTATOMA LIGATA), SHOWING HATCHED AND
UNHATCHED EGGs. ENLARGED 63 DIAMETERS (ORIGINAL).

Fig. 2.—EGG BATCH OF CONCHUELA (PENTATOMA LIGATA) FROM WHICH 32
PROCTOTRYPID PARASITES (TELENOMUS ASHMEADI) HAVE EMERGED. ENLARGED
63 DIAMETERS (ORIGINAL).

The illustration shows three parasites, including male and female, ready to emerge; also
ab egg destroyed, probably by an ant.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. Kk

TACHINID PARASITES.

A species of the very useful family Tachinide, Gymnosoma fuli-
ginosa Desy., has been reared from adults of the conchuela. The
victims of this parasitic fly are distinguished by the yellowish-white
egg or eggshell which remains attached to the thorax of the host
unless it happened to have been attached to a nymph in the fifth
instar, which afterwards molted. On August 11 and 12 only three
parasitized specimens were discovered, two in the fifth nymphal
instar and one an adult. An adult of this species of Tachinide was
bred from one of these bugs. On September 12 parasitism by these
tachinids was found to be more common than at the time of the
previous visit. Of 24 adults examined at that time, 4 were found
to be parasitized. On October 13, of 18 adults and 31 nymphs in
the fifth nymphal instar, 2 only had been parasitized, both nymphs.
While these parasites are decidedly beneficial and may be more useful
under some conditions, they were not sufficiently abundant at Barstow
in 1905 to explain the rapid decimation of the numbers of the con-
chuela which has been described under the subject of seasonal history.

PREDACEOUS ENEMIES.

Although no observations on the subject of predaceous enemies
were made at Barstow, it seems important to refer briefly to the
records of observations by others along this line, in order that it be
not inferred that because pentatomids in general are characterized
by their ability to produce an offensive odor they are immune to the
attacks of insectivorous birds and of toads. On the contrary the
crow“ is believed to be especially fond of bugs of this group, and
many other birds,’ as well as the common toads,’ seem to find them
unobjectionable as food. If we accept the evidence of definite reports
and observations during three successive seasons as indicative of the
usual seasonal history of the conchuela, the period of maximum abun-
dance is followed closely by a marked reduction in the numbers of
the pest. In this it is not unlikely that birds will prove to be an
important if not the leading factor.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Under some conditions farm practices, such as the destruction of
weeds in the fall and otherwise hindering the sucessful hibernation of
the conchuelas, would be of unquestioned value in control, but under

@ Bul. 6, Div. Orn. and Mam., U. S.-Dept. Agric., p. 63.

4 Buls. 13, Biol. Surv., Dept. Agric., U. S., pp. 25, 62, 70; 15, p. 23; 21, p. 43;
23, p. 26. Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. for 1895, pp. 417, 423, 429; Yearbook
U. S. Dept. Agric. for 1900, p. 414, Plates L, LI.

¢ Bul, 46, Hatch (Mass.) Exp. Sta., p, 26, Bul. 91, Ky. Exp. Sta., pp. 62, 64.

iy MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

the conditions in western Texas, such as those obtaining at Barstow,
probably little good could be accomplished by such measures. With
the mesquite-covered surrounding districts as a stronghold these
insects probably will become established in the alfalfa fields each year
and become more or less numerous as the season progresses, their
numbers being governed by conditions which for the most part exert
their influence secondarily through the natural enemies of the species.
The question of control at Barstow, and where similar conditions
prevail, resolves itself into: First, avoidance of damage to the seed
crop of alfalfa; second, methods tending to prevent the insect’s
spread from alfalfa to other crops, or otherwise preventing infesta-
tions; third, direct remedies appheable for use when crops other than
alfalfa become infested.

AVOIDANCE OF INJURY TO THE SEED CROP OF ALFALFA.

At Barstow the experience of alfalfa growers for two successive
seasons, supported by direct observation by Mr. Crawford and the
writer at regular intervals during 1905, has shown that the conchue-
las are so numerous during July and August that an attempt to pro-
duce a seed crop during this period would be inadvisable. In north-
ern Mexico observations extending over three seasons have shown the
insects both to reach a maximum in numbers and to show a marked
decrease therefrom during the last two weeks of July. This cor-
responded with the history of the pest at Barstow, and it is believed
that the danger limits above given are sufficiently wide to covereall
but exceptional cases under the present conditions. If a crop
intended for seed promised to mature before July.1, probably but
little damage would be accomplished by the conchuela, but this is
entirely a surmise which it is hoped will be thoroughly tested when
al Opportunity presents itself. The same probabilities hold for a crop
of seed which would mature after the Ist of September. This, more-
over, has been substantiated by the experience of Miller Brothers at
Barstow, which has been described under the subject of damage to
alfalfa in 1905. Avoidance of the injury as here outlined is undoubt-
edly simpler than actually defending the seed in the field from attack.

A SUGGESTION AS TO MECHANICAL CONTRIVANCES FOR COLLECTING THE
INSECTS.

Between the conchuela (P. gata) and its near relative, the grain
bug (P. say’), whose reputation as a pest has already been men-
tioned, it may be anticipated here that in the course of time remedies
will be demanded for use against such insect enemies of alfalfa in
other sections of the country. In a field with ripening seed an ex-
periment with an insect-collecting net in one hand and a stick in the
other, simulating the action of an imaginary specially constructed

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 115:

hopperdozer with a revolving fan, convinced the writer of the prac-
ticability of collecting these insects mechanically. The great major-
ity of the insects, when undisturbed, may be found near the tops of
the plants, on the seed clusters when these are present. They drop
to the ground when slightly disturbed, much more readily, in fact,
than when they have a footing on a more substantial object like a
cotton boll. It is safe to predict that a contrivance for collecting will
be devised when the necessity arises. It should be hght, operated
from behind, and consist essentially of an elongate metallic pan sus-
pended below a revolving fan geared to the supporting wheels.

PREVENTIVE AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES.

If, as advised in one of the preceding paragraphs, no attempt is
made to produce a seed crop during the period of the year when the
conchuelas are dangerously abundant, an important factor in their
multiplication and spread will be eliminated. But the shorter period
required for the hay crop is sufficient to permit the insects to reach
the enormous numbers indicated in the writer’s reference to the occur-
rence on alfalfa in northern Mexico in 1905. Uusually the greater
number of the insects will not reach maturity during the interim be-
tween cuttings, and the work of preventing the spread will be in part
the checking of the migration of the crawling nymphs. This can be
readily accomplished when necessary by leaving an uncut border
around the field, where the insects when trapped can be destroyed by
spraying with kerosene emulsion. As the insects show a marked
tendency to concentrate in certain limited areas rather than to spread
evenly over the fields, this can be taken advantage of by making a
general examination of the field, before cutting, to locate the colonies.
A few small boys in a few hours might pick up several quarts * of the
adults when these are abundant and well concentrated. If this is not
feasible, small heavily infested areas may be treated with kerosene
emulsion, although adult pentatomids are apt to be quite resistant
to this insecticide. At Tlahualilo, Durango, Mexico, on July 11,
1905, after the alfalfa hay had been made and stacked, countless
hosts of the insects still remained in the alfalfa field in spite of the
extensive migration to neighboring crops. Those that remained
were largely concentrated near one corner of the field and, as suitable
spraying apparatus was not available, destruction of the pest was
accomplished by respreading about 3 or 4 tons of alfalfa hay over
the ground and then burning it. This operation for the protection
of the surrounding cotton fields against further invasion from this
source was effective, but would be unnecessarily costly under ordinary

a One quart contains approximately 1,500 adult specimens of P. ligata.

14 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

+

circumstances. In the case of the chinch bug a practice of destruc-
tion by burning similar to the one here mentioned has been recom-
mended for use under certain conditions.* Cooperation among the
owners of adjoining farms is necessary in order to obtain the best
results in the attempt to check the spread of the conchuela, as well
as in the case of the chinch bug and many other insects.

A protective measure which may in some cases be recommended,
especially for use in small gardens, consists in screening such crops as
tomatoes with a cheap quality of mosquito netting.

REMEDIES WHEN CROPS OTHER THAN ALFALFA ARE ATTACKED.

The subject of remedies for use in protecting cotton against damage
by the conchuela and related pests will be reserved for a future pub-
lication. When this insect attacks the seed of Milo maize and related
grains little can be done except when the bugs are concentrated in
large numbers in limited areas; then hand collecting or jarring from
the plants may be advisable, particularly as a protective measure
when such an infestation is an element of danger to neighboring
crops. For remedial measures against the insect when it attacks
garden vegetables and grapes we can suggest spraying with kerosene
emulsion and collecting by hand, or, if it is necessary to carry on
operations on a large scale, the bugs may be jarred into convenient
receptacles containing kerosene and water, so arranged that they can
be dragged between the rows if desired.

When attacking peaches a certain proportion of the bugs can be
jarred from the fruit and killed on the ground, but this is at the
best far from satisfactory, as the fruit itself is hkely to be shaken off
or otherwise injured and many of the bugs will escape by flying.
Peach trees when pruned in accordance with the practice of the lead-
ing growers are low enough to permit hand picking of all the fruit
and are correspondingly easy of fumigation. A light tent made of
ordinary cotton sheeting can be placed over an infested tree by the use
of poles and held in place at the bottom by dirt or stones. The burn-
ing of tobacco stems, pyrethrum, or buhach powder inside the tent
will soon stupefy the inzects and cause them to fall to the ground,
where they can be easily and quickly killed. The fumes can be pre-
vented from escaping too readily through the cloth by lightly paint-
ing it with linseed oil thinned with turpentine. This method of fumi-
gation 1s inexpensive and has the further advantage of requiring but
a few minutes’ work for each tree.

@ Bul. 17, old series, Diy. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 37, 1888.

O

oo DEPak MENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY — BULLETIN No. 64, Part II.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON THE
ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS.

W. DWIGHT PIERCE,

Special Field Agent.

IssuED AprRIL 2, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

EOOu i

CONTE NES

Page.
PAMETIROLLLELUL ITU U EL O GTC. Nucible se ks ee eee ee 15
URS SIWAN SO eS ea Be a SN a a es Se, Sk Se ee eee eo Al
ARC COMLCEAUS eel al Giese eee eee SLR eR ae a ee ye EE Ne ee 21
MWKGLOVONOTLLILS pruimosws. Brandt_-—=_.— 2 ee Ee 22
Ay TRCATOY SS] O11 Ss ee ee ere ent es heh te ges As BS Ps
T Sof. ) a hb} em Ti
Pee Ss PRA TON:
Page.
PLATE II. Work of Armadillidium vulgare on cotton ____________________ 16

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part IT. IssurD APRIL 2, 1907.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK OF
THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON THE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS.

By W. DwiGHT PIERCE,

Special Field Agent.

Having been detailed to investigate certain injuries attributed to
sowbugs, the writer presents the following notes concerning the life
history and habits of three species of these isopods, namely, Avmadi!-
lidium vulgare ULatr., Porcellio levis Latr., and Metoponorthus prui-
nosus Brandt. The first species, at least, is capable of doing con-
siderable injury to garden crops, flower gardens, vines, and field
crops in the vicinity of buildings, although it is also found to be ¢
valuable scavenger. The scavenger habit, however, makes it an unde-
sirable intruder in the house owing to the possibility that it may
convey disease.

ARMADILLIDIUM VULGARE Latr.

The sowbug Armadillidium vulgare Latr. is commonly known as
the “ pill-bug,” on account of its habit of rolling into a ball whenever
disturbed. Ordinarily it is found only in the vicinity of habitations,
in dark, damp places, such as woodsheds and cellars, under boards
and rubbish, and around wells, cisterns, and water barrels. The open
foundations under houses in the South give very favorable locations
for breeding.

For several years the Department of Agriculture has received
reports of injury from sowbugs to one or another crop in various
parts of Texas. The sowbugs seem to have been on the increase from
year to year. In 1905 the spring rains, although at times occasioning
a natural check to these pests, brought about a series of conditions
favorable to a rapid increase in their numbers. Moisture is a requisite
to their life, and it also seems that vegetation is a standard article of
food. The bad conditions of the ground throughout Texas during
that year made all crops very late, so that by the time the succulent
cotton and garden crops were coming up the new broods of young
sowbugs were everywhere engaged in finding delicate, tender food.

15

16 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

At Dallas the cotton patch of the boll-weevil laboratory furnished
ample evidence of the capacity of these crustaceans in devouring
vegetation (see Pl. II). By April 14 the cotton was sending up the
second, and in some cases the third, pair of leaves. At this time Mr.
Springer Goes noticed that the growing tips in rows adjacent to
buildings were badly eaten, although the injury extended over the
entire patch to a greater or less degree. All plants which were tipped
died very shortly, with the result that seven rows had to be entirely
replanted. A great many of the seedlings of the second planting also
‘were killed. Many gardens had suffered through attacks on the young
sprouts of beans, peas, and tomatoes, and on rose bushes and other
cultivated flowers. In December Mr. R. C. Howell found the sow-
bugs doing serious damage to roots of palmetto, one large plant being
entirely killed. From Austin there came a note published in Farm
and Ranch, dated April 29, 1905, which enumerated the following
plants as subject to the attacks of this species: Butter beans, radishes,
lettuce, mustard, potted plants, and also flower seed. The earlier
planting of beans was untouched, while the late planting, owing to
the favorable conditions for multiplication afforded the sowbugs, was
seriously injured.

From economic lterature the writer finds the following records of
injury attributed to this species:

Miss Richardson“ cites injuries to cucumbers and hothouse vege-
tables at New Orleans, La., to various plants at Fort Worth, Tex.,
and to date palms from Algeria, located at Washington, and states
that these sowbugs are a most serious pest on mushrooms at Berkley,
Va.

Mr. H. Garman” cites this species as very injurious to young
cucumbers and lettuce in greenhouses, and recommends carbon bisul-
phid as a remedy.

With this information in hand, a series of seventy-five experiments
was conducted in the laboratory in order to compare various condi-
tions and foods in their effects upon this species. Over 900 individuals
were involved in the experiments, of which the results may be here
summarized.

The most favorable condition under which to keep the sowbugs was
found to consist of a mixture of gumbo and sand kept moist, and a
supply of fresh cotton leaves, leaving some old ones to decay and
mold. Moisture is absolutely essential. With such conditions, sow-
bugs were carried through the entire period of the investigation, e. g.,
10 females and 1 male were kept alive eighty days, and 4 of these

@Monograph on the Isopods of North America. By Harriet Richardson.
Bul. 54, U. S. Nat. Mus., 1905.
6 Bul. 91, Ky. Agric. Exp. Sta., 1901.

PLATE II.

Bul. 64, Part Il, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

a Nar tte

WORK OF ARMADILLIDIUM VULGARE ON COTTON.

[This shows the center of the injured area, which was replanted, and also the source of the infestation—the sheds,

(Original. )]

“tt

Waal a

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 17
females were still alive one hundred and sixty days after the begin-
ning of the experiment. The cotton leaves, when tender, were eagerly
eaten.

Fungous growth was favorable only under certain conditions. In
the experiments cited above the leaves in contact with the earth de-
ceayed and accumulated a rich growth of mold. Upon these decayed
leaves the sowbugs seemed to thrive, although there was always evi-
dence of feeding on green leaves when such were present. Fungous
growths on dry leaves, on decaying fruit, and on moist dead wood
were only capable of sustaining them as long as the moisture was con-
served. Fungus found on earth moistened with molasses sustained
9 sowbugs thirty-six days, and 2 survived as long as seventy-five days.
Green cotton leaves alone will sustain the life of these crustaceans
longer than any other simple condition tried—thirty-two days being
the longest any remained alive under these conditions. The other
vegetation provided was not favorable, and the sowbugs seemed
rather to keep alive on the moisture from the blotter or on the fungus-
covered decayed leaves; thus, rose buds and leaves, and the leaves of
violet, mint, and chrysanthemum were untouched by the sowbugs.
These leaves did not retain their moisture long after picking. When
moist earth alone was provided, some found sufficient food to sustain
life eighteen days. Additional proof that nourishment is sought in
the soil was obtained by mixing London purple or Paris green with
the earth. Death always resulted very quickly. When other condi-
tions were unfavorable it was often found that some were sustained
by feeding upon the bodies of their dead associates, which were com-
pletely devoured. The molted skins were generally devoured.

Experiments with the cattle tick (Boophilus annulatus Say) and
its eggs evidenced the fact that the sowbugs fed on the dead ticks and
ate the eggs when no other food was present. Thirty-eight sowbugs
were furnished with a large number of eggs of the tick, and it was
found that in several instances as many as 13 tick eggs each were
eaten per day for a series of days. This, however, was a maximum,
the average during the conduct of the experiment being about 3 eggs
per day each. Experiments to find whether the sowbugs fed upon
the pup of a cutworm (Prodenia ornithogalli Guen.) proved futile.

A series of outdoor tests was also conducted with baits to find
what substances might be used to attract these crustaceans, and
finally a series of poison tests to ascertain the most advisable remedy.

Bread proved attractive, but as every piece tried was carried away
by some mammal or bird its use seemed inadvisable. Flour, bacon,
potatoes, radishes, and sugar proved to be good baits. To ascertain
the relative value of different insecticides several poison tests were
conducted with pyrethrum, Paris green, London purple, and arsenic.
Few dead sowbugs were found, however, and it was noticed that a

18 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

less number approached the poisoned baits than those not poisoned.
A series of tests with repellents showed that barriers of powder—
whether pyrethrum, arsenic, London purple, or Paris green—proved
obnoxious, the sowbugs quickly turning away to avoid the danger, and
showing, by the frantic waving of the antenne, that they had a per-
ception of something wrong. London purple seemed the least repel-
lent and yet practically as effective as any of the others. Sowbugs
placed in a jar with a biscuit rolled in arsenic became frantic and
died in a few minutes, as did others placed in jars with earth mixed
with either London purple or Paris green.

After sprinkling Paris green under boards which had been favorite
haunts of the sowbugs, no more live specimens could be found,
although each day several dead ones were discovered. In April,
when the sowbugs were doing considerable damage to the cotton, a
mixture of Paris green and lime was dusted on and around the
sprouts with the result that under the poisoned plants great numbers
of dead sowbugs were found. No dead could be found around the
unpoisoned plants. The dusting was harsh treatment for the plants,
being in many cases fatal. It is, however, as proved by other tests,
unnecessary to dust the plants. The poison will be picked up by the
sowbugs in foraging over the ground.

Under a roll of wire matting in his’back yard the writer found the
sowbugs so abundant that they crawled over each other in their haste
to get away. Having very little poison on hand, he sprinkled what
he had of Paris green, London purple, and arsenic over the ground in
an area of about 1 square yard and rolled back the matting. Next
morning he found 21 sowbugs alive and over 800 dead. Those alive
died in a few days, apparently from the effects of the poisoning.
The poison washed from these dead sowbugs and used to saturate the
soil in jars in several experiments proved fatal to all sowbugs placed
in the jars.

Kerosene emulsion as a contact spray was fatal. In spraying a
water barrel with kerosene the writer generally sprayed the ground
around it also, with the result that the sowbugs were always killed.

These experiments and tests were supplemented by numerous ob-
servations of actual conditions from which also data may be derived
regarding means of control.

Concerning the plant-feeding habits, definite proofs were obtained
as follows:

May 25, at 7.30 a. m., sowbugs were noted at various distances
above the ground feeding on the folhage of weeds and honeysuckle.
On June 30, at 7 a. m., three sowbugs were discovered feeding on
weeds, and one at 8 feet above the ground feeding on a honey-
suckle leaf. Nine others were found on the honeysuckle vine at var-
ious heights up to 3 feet; also two on grass blades and seven on the

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 19

ground under the honeysuckle. On July 3, at 7.30 p. m., the sowbugs
were just commencing to climb the various plants, and none were
feeding as yet. On the honeysuckle 19 were seen at various heights
up to 3 feet, and all but two on the stems and moving upward.

The following definite proofs of the scavenger habits of this sow-
bug were obtained: May 17 a dead rat near the house was found
covered with a great number of sowbugs and almost entirely eaten,
even the skin being eaten in places. At another time several sowbugs
were discovered diligently cleaning a peach pit.

Concerning the haunts of these animals the following observations
were made: In April and May there was considerable moisture, and
under every shaded, moist board, cinder, and clod, and under straw,
refuse, garbage, and carrion, one could easily find many adult sow-
bugs and multitudes of young. In the cotton patch, at the base of
each plant, the ground became cracked, and here sheltered great num-
bers of sowbugs, which very likely did injury to the roots. May 17,
under the trees and in shady places, the sowbugs were so plentiful
that at every step numbers were crushed. July 3, at 8 p. m., sowbugs
to the number of 14 were found on an oak tree, the highest being 5 or
6 feet above the ground. July 26, in the late afternoon and early even-
ing, some five dozen sowbugs were found in cracks and holes on three
trees, many of them as high as could be seen.

Regarding the effect of natural and field conditions upon these
crustaceans certain notes were made. Susceptibility to varying
weather conditions was very noticeable. May 25, at 7.30 a. m.,
a large number of sowbugs had gathered at baits. At 8 o'clock a
sudden storm commenced to rise. The sowbugs seemed immediately
conscious of danger and hastened in all directions for the highest
shelter possible, gaining protection on the fence and beneath the
clapboards of the house. All were out of sight when the first drops
of water fell. In April and May there was considerable rain, and
during the periods of sunshine, at whatever time of day, the sow-
bugs were to be seen everywhere, crawling over the sidewalks and
pavements. April 23 and 24 the ground was drenched with water,
and on the 25th dead sowbugs were to be found everywhere on the
ground and on the sidewalks. On June 3 a similar observation was
made in a spot where the water had stood for several days. By
June 15 the intense heat had driven the sowbugs from the open so
that few could be found in unprotected places.

The writer’s notes upon the biology of the isopods are based on
observations of about a thousand individuals in the large series of
experiments that has been already referred to.

Copulation was frequently noted out of doors during April and
May. The males may be distinguished from the females by their
colors as well as by the specific sexual characters. They are a

20 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU——IX.

dark slaty blue, while the females are lghter and have yellow:
markings.

The period of incubation in this species is long, between fifty-six
and ninety-three days, according to the varying results obtained.
As no individuals were secured in copula, the exact time of its dura-
tion was not recorded. The development of the eggs may be watched
from the exterior. The females should be treated very carefully,
but with a lens one may see on the ventral side, in the marsupium,
the distinct form of the eggs, and may notice the increase in size
and finally note the young embryos and the little white young. One
experiment with 10 females was most fruitful in giving data on this
point. On May 8, June 16, and July 8 young had been produced,
and on examination on July 26 all were found to be unfertilized
except one, which had eggs apparent. On August 7 the fertile
female produced a brood of young. This was ninety-three days
after being placed in captivity. A male was admitted on July 26,
and on September 30 a brood of young was produced. This would in-
dicate a period of incubation of, at the most, sixty-eight days. In
another experiment a female which had just produced a brood of
young was placed with 3 males on August 7. On October 2 a brood
of young was produced, making the period of incubation fifty-seven
days. The number of young in a brood varied from 29 to 79.

The little isopods are pure white when they leave the marsupium.
They have six pairs of legs. Within twenty-four hours of birth they
molt, and still have only six pairs of legs. Between the fourteenth
and eighteenth days another molt takes place and the resulting
third instar has seven pairs of legs. The young continue to grow
and molt, having been observed in the act of molting on the twenty-
eighth, thirty-sixth, fifty-eighth, and sixty-eighth days. After the
first molt there is no regularity as to times of molting in the brood,
all depending on the food supply. After the first molt a slight dark-
ening of the intestines is noted, and by the twenty-first day the sow-
bugs are of a gray color throughout and under 3 mm. in length. In
fifty-eight days they have not increased beyond 4 mm. in length. The
greatest size of any found was 15 mm. This specimen was probably
several years old. Females not over 7 mm. long are capable of
reproduction.

Before molting, the body of all sowbugs becomes a very dirty
gray color. The act of molting is peculiar. At first a white border
indicating the loosening of the old skin appears at the front edge
of the fifth free thoracic segment, then another on the sixth, and
still another on the seventh. Finally the entire posterior half of the
skin is free and the isopod steps out of it. This process consumes
about twenty-four hours, and when completed the posterior part
of the body is of fresh slate color, while the old anterior part appears

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 21

very dull. Following the first stage of the molt the anterior seg-
ments commence to loosen and are shd forward. The dorsum of
the third and fourth thoracic segments is loosened before the legs
of these segments are released. From then on the last two pairs of
legs in the very young and the last three in later stages are used to
hold the animal in position. The anterior legs are not available for
use for some time after they are free. The antenne are withdrawn
last.

Regeneration of parts takes place in the antenne and legs. Several
times individuals with aborted members were noticed. These latter
would gradually attain full length, then budding of the succeeding
segment would be noted and finally this member would be normal.
The regenerated part is white for some time.

REMEDIES.

In the treatment of sowbugs poisoned baits are standard remedies.
The great fondness of sowbugs for potatoes long ago led to these
being used, poisoned either with Paris green or London purple.
The potatoes are sliced and a thin covering of powder applied.
Sprinkhng the soil around an injured plant with Paris green, or
dusting the same under boards and other haunts of the sowbugs is
also very effective. If the sowbugs are injurious in a garden patch—
after treating the ordinary haunts—it is best to keep the ground well
broken and raked to prevent clodding and cracking, which gives them
protection. Old boards, cans, and rubbish should not be allowed to
accumulate. Such precautions will tend greatly to prevent any
great damage or annoyance.

Carbon bisulphid has been recommended for the treatment of sow-
bugs in greenhouses and dwellings, but no special experiments along
this line have been tried by the writer.

PORCELLIO LAVIS Latr.

Porcellio levis Latr. is a lighter colored sowbug than the preced-
ing, and does not roll up in a ball when disturbed, but instead runs
rapidly away to cover. The only definite point in favor of consid-
ering it as naturally a plant feeder was the discovery of one dead
specimen under cotton dusted with Paris green. It was found, how-
ever, that the best way to keep this species alive in the laboratory
was to furnish it with fresh cotton leaves and loose mixed soil.
Sowbugs of this species were not found far from the barns, and were
not numerous in the laboratory cotton patch. They were generally
under moist, dark objects and seemed to prefer damp wood piles.
Several were found with Armadillidium in crevices and in trees at
various heights. One Porcellio was found in the skeleton of a car-
abid beetle, which was entirely eaten out. In numerous cases this

22 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

species was found devouring those of its own kind. ‘The molted skin
is usually eaten. A chest of old clothes, which had been wet in a
flood, was found to be literally alive with this sowbug. Experiments
with eggs of the cattle tick (Boophilus annulatus Say) gave the fol-
lowing results: Four sowbugs provided with over 300 eggs devoured
153 at the rate of between 5 and 6 a day each.

The broods of this species are small, numbering from 8 to 30.
Metamorphosis is more rapid than in Armadillidium. The seventh
pair of legs is attained before the twelfth day. Molting is as in
Armadillidium.

The same remedies as recommended for Armadillidium were found
to be effective.

METOPONORTHUS PRUINOSUS Brandt.

Metoponorthus pruinosus Brandt is a much rarer sowbug than
either of the two preceding species. It is also more delicate and more
agile. The color is a beautiful blue-gray in the male and somewhat
tinged with red in the female. Its haunts are damp, earthy places
in sheds, ete.

These sowbugs feed very eagerly on cotton leaves and were kept
under the same condition as the two preceding species. Forty tick
eges were eaten by two individuals at the rate of about 7 per day
each. They may be poisoned by dusting the soil in their haunts
with arsenicals.

Reproduction and development is very rapid, much more so than
in either Armadillidium or Porcellio. One pair produced four
broods of young in sixty-two days, there being seventeen, sixteen,
and twenty-one days between broods. The broods are small. The
young grow so rapidly that in two months they are one-half as large
as their parents. They molt frequently. It is very difficult to ob-
serve this species closely because of its rapidity of movement.

CONCLUSIONS.

In conclusion it may be said that (1) ina damp year the sowbugs
may do considerable damage to the young growing vegetable crops;
(2) they serve at all times as scavengers; (38) their exclusion from
houses is advisable because of the scavenger habit, there being a
possibility of the transmission of diseases; (4) in the case of the
cattle-tick problem they may be beneficial by eating such eggs as are
deposited in barns, sheds, pens, in the woods near the watering places,
and in moist meadows. Finally, cleanliness is probably the best pre-
ventive against sowbug inroads, arsenical compounds the best outdoor
remedies, and carbon bisulphid the best indoor remedy.

O

iorory

Fm peat

ee Well ee ae ee

b
eC me SRS AS ob

Peo r An WENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No, 64, Part III.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON ~PUNKIES.”

F. C. PRATT,

Special Field Agent.

IssuED APRIL 2, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
LOOT:

CONTENDS:

Page.

Introdtietion: < 32/2540 2 oie saleee ry elk aes 9 vee ot 23
Ceratopogonquiitipennis 4 ans See ike eee ee ee ee 23
The taryars eet iia eee 2 eee se aE (a UST eae Noe 24
The sptipars 220322 Ube SEER eee SME RR Gs dace ape ee 25
Other species of Ceratopogon’. » iis =tv2 sreys pte eess Fea ee eee 26
Other, blood-sucking Chironomidz 255-45, eee eee = oo ee eee 28

LEE oa tener Gans

Page.

Fic. 3. Ceratopogon guttipenms: adult, larva, pupa, details -...........-...... 24
4. Ceratopogon gutttupennis: mouth parts of adult.............-...-..----- 24

Ds Ceratopogon Varicolors DUPAie as. nase se Bh a ee ee 25
GanG@eratopogon:stevlopens vA Ullte | sess ae ee ee 26

It

U.S. D.A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part III. Issued April 2, 1907.

SOME MISCEELANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF -ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON ‘ PUNKIES.”
(Ceratopogon spp.)

3y F.C. Prart,

Special Field Agent.
INTRODUCTION.

While in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Bluemont, Va., a few
years ago the writer heard reports concerning “‘biting gnats,’ which
were said to bite furiously before rains. At that time his stay was
of short duration, and a dry summer prevented him from securing
specimens. In 1904, however, during another visit to the same local-
ity one rainy week, July 21—28, he was harassed by myriads o* these
minute flies, which were extremely numerous and active after as well
as before rains. They proved to be Ceratopogon guttipennis Coq.,
one of the smaller Chironomid. Mr. D. W. Coquillett has recently
made a careful systematic study of the specimens belonging to the
genus Qeratopogon contained in the United States National Museum
collection, including those reared at the insectary of this Department
and by the writer, and the determinations of the species here men-
tioned are his. The records of these rearings are brought together in
the present paper with the addition of such data as have been commu-
nicated by collectors and correspondents.

Prior to 1902 little had been published on any of these pernicious
insects beyond scattered notices such as were furnished in a previous
bulletin? of this Bureau, on the bite of (. stellifer Coq. in Texas. As
the bibliographic references have never been collected, the writer
has brought together all data and accompanying illustrations, with
such references to the biting and other habits of this group as he has
been able to find.

CERATOPOGON GUTTIPENNIS Coq.

The flies of the species Ceratopogon guttipennis will bite any exposed
part of the body, preferring, however, the hairy parts. At one time
25 individuals were counted in the hair on the head of the writer's
8-year-old boy guide at Bluemont, Va. They are persistent in their
endeavors to obtain blood, piercing the skin and filling up with blood
so as almost to lose semblance to flies. In many cases an itching

a Bul. 44, Div. Ent., U.S. Dept. Agric., p. 92, 1904.

rt

ae

24 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

pimple results from the punctures, the eruptions, in appearance,

\

Sy

Tia. 3.—Ceratopogon guttipennis: a, adult; b, head of same; c, larva; d, head of sam’; ¢, pupa. Al
greatly enlarged (original).

being very much like the vesicles caused by contact with poison ivy.
The adult is a minute fly 1 mm. in length, appearing blackish to the
naked eye, but under a lens seen to be of a deep gray hue, with mot-
tled wings (fig. 3). Its mouth parts are
illustrated in figure 4. The species was
described by Mr. D. W. Coquillett,7 to
whose paper the reader is referred for
descriptions of many species of this genus.
The Virginia punkie is the name which the
writer would suggest for this particular
species, as it may possibly be distinct
from the one occurring in Maine which
the Indians called ‘‘no-see-um,”’ and which
is popularly known as ‘‘punkie,”’ the
latter name being corrupted according |. , alpen ee ee
to locality. The flies of this species are Mouth parts of adult. Highly
very troublesome to man and domestic — ™2™°Coneimad.

animals. If milking is put off later than usual in the morning,
they drive the cows almost frantic by their persistence, and while
that process is going on the operator, having both hands, engaged,
is at their mercy

THE LARVA.

Larve were found in the very dirty water in holes in the middle of
poplar stumps, in company with larve of mosquitoes (Anopheles bar-

a Proc. U. S. Nat. Mus., Vol. XXIII, No. 1225, p. 603, 1901.

NOTES ON ‘‘PUNKIES.”’ 25

beri Coq., Culex signifer Coq., and C. triseriatus Coq.), larvee of the
dascyllid beetle Prionocyphon discoideus Say, and a rat-tailed maggot
related to Eristalis. Eggs could not be found on account of the
dirty condition of the water. The larval food seems to be the débris
at the bottom of the holes, as well as dead mosquito and other larve,
and cast larval and pupal skins. In one instance the larve had
accomplished the complete disintegration of a rat-tailed maggot, and
the writer has seen them render the skin of the beetle larva just re-
ferred to transparent. On several occasions larvee were seen inside
the skin. They were taken also at Woodstock under similar con-
ditions, that is, in holes containing water in living trees.

The larva (fig. 3, c), when full grown, is 4.7 mm. in length and very
slender. It has 12 segments exclusive of the head, the two segments
following the head together being about the length of each of the
other segments. It is white in color, threadlike, and has a brownish
head. Locomotion is undulatory. The larve frequently come to
the surface and then descend, squirming along the bottom
of a jar and apparently never remaining quiet, as does the
larva of Culex at times. Some of the larve were carried
through the winter in a room which was moderately cool,
but seldom near freezing. From these over-wintered
larve adultsissued April 27 to May 8, 1905. Later inves-
tigation may prove that the larvee freeze up just as do the
larve of some mosquitoes, then thaw out in the spring
and complete their life cycle.

THE PUPA.

The pupa (fig. 3, e) is 3.01 mm. in length and 0.84 mm.
in breadth. It is of a brown color, a little more than
half as long as the mature larva, but much stouter, and Fre. 5.—Pupa

. . : { Ceratopo-
has eight abdominal segments, each succeeding segment gon varicolor.

being narrowed to the last, which is bifurcated, the clasp- Co tea
ers being 0.35 mm. in length. It is provided with*two = ?°""
short breathing tubes. In this stage the insect does not move fre-
quently, remaining in a perpendicular position in the water just below
the surface. For comparison the figure of an allied species, C.
varicolor Coq. (fig. 5), from Bellport, N. Y., is reproduced from Plate I,
Volume V, of the Proceedings of the Entomological Society of
Washington.

The known distribution, gathered from specimens in the U. S.
National Museum collection, is as follows: Plummers Island, Md.,
June 6 (H.S. Barber); Medina, Ohio, August 5 (J.S. Hine); Blue-
mont, Va., July 29 and 30, and Woodstock, Va., August 8 and 9 (F. C.
Pratt); Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona, July 8 (E. A. Schwarz).

A specimen of Ceratopogon guttipennis has recently (April 13, 1906)
been reared from a larva collected from water in a hollow living tree

‘

26 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

at Dallas, Tex., April 9, 1906, under conditions similar to those at
Bluemont and Woodstock, Va. This water had been frozen during

the winter.
OTHER SPECIES OF CERATOPOGON.

There are nearly one hundred known species of Ceratopogon repre-
sented in the U. S. National Museum collection, and several species
besides the one under discussion are known to bite, among them

Fiac. 6.—Ceratopogon stellifer: Adult. Wighly magnified (original).

C. sanguisuga Coq., C. stellifer Coq., C. variipennis Coq., C. unicolor
Coq., and (. cinctus Coq. Many others will undoubtedly be found to
have similar habits.

C. sanguisuga Coq. has been collected at the following localities:
Marlboro, Md., May 13 (H. S. Barber); Woodside, Md., October 12
(J. EK. Benedict, jr.); Kaslo, British Columbia, June 29 (H.G. Dyar).

C. stellifer Coq. (fig. 6) is a little smaller than C. guttipennis and is
a most notorious biter. Its distribution, as shown by specimens in
the U.S. National Museum, is as follows: District of Columbia, May
12, June 6, September 9 (H.S. Barber, collector); Fairfax County, Va.,
August 18 (J. E. Benedict, jr.); Cormth, Miss., August 19, and
Athens, Tenn., August 22 (H. 8. Barber); Las Vegas Hot Springs,
N. Mex., August 7, 11, and 19, and Hot Springs, Ariz., June 27 (H. S.
Barber).

C. variwpennis Coq. A female of this species was collected while
sucking blood by W. P. Cockerell at Las Vegas, N. Mex., May, 1902,
and has been collected at Westville, N. J., in June, by J. B. Smith
and on July 2 by C. W. Johnson; also at Richmond, Va., by Mrs.
A. T. Slosson, and at Mexico City, Mexico, by O. W. Barrett.

C'. unicolor Coq. has been taken at Eureka and Fieldbrook, Hum-
boldt County, Cal., by H. S. Barber in May and June.

C’. cunctus Coq. was found at Lake Worth and Biscayne Bay, Fla.,
by Mrs. A. T. Slosson, who braved its biting in order to collect speci-
mens of it.

NOTES ON ‘! PUNKIES.”’ 27

CO. websteri Coq. was collected April 17, 1887, by Prof. F. M. Web-
ster at Ashwood, La., on bushes in company with a species of Si-
mulium.

OC. mutabilis Coq., reared from human excrement by the writer in
the District of Columbia June 17, occurs also at Jacksonville, Fla.
(Mrs. A. T. Slosson, collector).

CO. griseus Coq. was captured on human excrement by the writer at
Travilah, Md., in June. It has been collected also in Florida and
Arizona, and Prof. T. D. A. Cockerell found it on a horse at Pecos,
N. Mex. This species, as well as C. mutabilis, were recorded by
Dr. L. O. Howard in an article on the insect fauna of human excre-
ment as ‘‘Ceratopogon species.”’ @

C. specularis Coq. was reared by Mr. C. L. Marlatt from horse and
cow manure during his investigation on the horn fly (/le#matobia
serrata R.-D.) in Virginia in 1889. It has been collected also at
Springfield, Mass. (Dimmock); Philadelphia, Pa., June 28, and
Natrona, Pa., July 30 (C. W. Johnson); District of Columbia, August
11 (F.C. Pratt); Woodside, Md., October 12 (J. E. Benedict, jr.); War-
renton, Va., August 23, and Rosslyn, Va., December 30 (C. L. Mar-
latt), and in Colorado.

W. H. Long? found larve of this species on the under side of dry
cow dung from August to December, but more abundantly during
November and December, in company with C. brumalis at Austin,
Tex.

C. brumalis Long. Mr. W. H. Long writes of this species as fol-
lows: °

During November, December, and January the larvee of this species were found in
immense numbers on the under side of nearly dry cow dung. They seem to feed on
the dung, never penetrating very far into the substance. No eggs were found. The
duration of the larval stage seems to be several weeks, that of the pupal stage seven
to ten days. * * * Several hundred larvee of all ages were found on the under
surface of a piece of moist rotting elm wood; similar larvee and puparia were also
found in the nests of the common foraging ant (Eciton caecum) on several different
occaslons.

Mr. Long states that he reared imagines from larve taken in these
various situations and they proved to be the same species. It is
known from Austin, Tex.

CO. stenammatis Long. Long writes of this species as follows:¢

The specimens were received from Dr. W. M. Wheeler, who found them in the nest
of an ant (Stenamma fulvum subsp. aquia) at Colebrook, Conn., August, 1900. They
were moving about in the refuse heaped up by the ants in certain portions of their
nests. The species seems to be a genuine myrmecophile like the European species
(C. Braueri Wasmann).

@ Proc. Wash. Acad. Sci., Vol. II, p. 559, 1900.

b Biol. Bul., Vol. III, pp. 7-10, figs. 3-6 (in part), 1902.
cL. c., Vol. III, pp. 3-7, figs. 1, 2, 6 (in part).

di. c., p. 10, figs. 4, 6 (in part).

“

28 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

C. tecanus Long.

The larvie of this species are gregarious in small numbers beneath the bark of old
dead trees in moist places, or on the under side of very damp rotting woed during
December and January. Rare.

Austin, Tex.

C. wheeleri Long. Adults of this species have not been reared on
account of a proctotrypid parasite (Adeliopria longiw Ashm.).

The Ceratopogon puparia were found December 15, 1900, beneath a stone, in what
seemed to be an abandoned ant’s nest. The parasites issued, one from the thoracic
dorsum of each of the Ceratopogon puparia December 31 and lived eight or ten days.®

Austin, Tex.

The late Dr. O. Lugger®¢ calls attention to the ‘‘cussedness” of
an unidentified species and gives a figure which may possibly be (.
stellifer. Ceratopogon has also been recorded as breeding under
leaves and in flowing sap from trees; thus the group is seen to have
divérsified habits.

In Europe, Professor Mik? described as Ceratopogon hippocastani
a hairy-winged species having a footless larva, found in the very
moist or wet ulcerous parts of stems of horse-chestnut (4sculus
hippocastanum).

OTHER BLOOD-SUCKING CHIRONOMIDZ.

A related form which may be mistaken for Ceratopogon is Qcacta
furens Poey, taken in June at Cardenas, Cuba, by Mr. E. A. Schwarz,
and at Montserrat, West Indies, April 8, by Mr. H. G. Hubbard. It
was also taken at Perihueta and Laguna Carmen, Mexico, by Dr.
Alfredo Dugés.

Another related form, Tersesthes torrens Towns., described by Prof.
C. H. T. Townsend ¢ with notes on habits, has been collected at the
following localities: Filmore Canyon, and Las Vegas Hot Springs,
N. Mex. (Townsend); Fort Grant, Ariz., July 19 (H. G. Hubbard);
Ash Fork, Ariz., June 18 (H. S. Barber); Lake Worth, Fla. (Mrs.
A. T. Slosson); Salt Lake, Utah (H. S. Barber), and Baracoa, Cuba,
August (A. Busck).

Mr. Barber has collected from thirty to forty species of Ceratopogon
and states that Tersesthes is much worse as a pest than any Cera-
topogon he has ever encountered.

atong. L.c., pp. 10-12, figs. .5, 6 (in part).

6 Long. L.c., pp. 12-14, fig. 5 (in part).

¢Second Rept. Ent. of Minn. Exp. Sta., pp. 171-172, fig. 142, 1896.
@ Wiener Ent. Ziet., Vol. VII, pp. 183-192, Pl. II, 1888.

€ Psyche, Vol. VI, pp. 369-371, pl. 8, 1893.

O

tro, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 64, Part IV.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES
QF APION, WITH NOTES ON
RELATED FORMS.

BY

Bo. CoP ReENDEN;

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

IssuED JANUARY 14, 1908.

~

WASHINGTON: 1
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 200058
1908.

CONTE NaS

Page

ANION SGTIS CII. STM fa ts NE Ronee Otel eed OL a ae, 5 29
ATOM COLON: ISMAT SAAS SSRs Reo ied eee es ek ek 30
NOLES “OM LEle te Or wn see aU Se ga 31
ALON -COMVETD CUTE ES TIN ee a Se LENT ep Mel 1 ec ee 31
Apion tur DUlen teeny aS Tle EN Sole ee ee nat ee 31
ALON -CHVOTiCOUEsTieC = wat 25 2 ES BWA Uae eee dl ee) Se ol
Apion’ proche Wits. =e ne a ee ee ae ee ae ee oil
Aion: Dat mele SMe 2a Se eS ee el Bil

A DION SCOMTEPCS Saye a) Ae ae a i ga Oe OY Lc ol
Apion’ decoloratiny oS Mss 2) oe OE ee ee 31
Apion herculanwm>Smi 2 tos Se ee a ee ee ee en 32

ILLUSTRAT TON
Page.
Hie: “t.. Apion assiilesss 2-2 Sen ee ee Ee ee 30

It

U.S. D; A., B. W. Bui. 64, Part IV. Issued January 14, 1908.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF APION, WITH
NOTES ON RELATED FORMS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

In economic works of European authors a very considerable number
of species of Apion are mentioned in connection with injuries to cul-
tivated plants, and particularly to the Papilionacee, for which a
large proportion of species show a preference. Certain European
forms are sufficiently abundant to receive common English names,
among which are the clover weevil, the Dutch-clover yellow-legged
weevil, the cinquefoil weevil, the tare or vetch weevil, and others,
the popular name being indicative of each insect’s food habits.

None of our native species, so far as known to the writer, has hith-
erto been recorded as injuring useful plants; hence a note received
from Mr. James K. Metcalfe, Silver City, N. Mex., of injuries to for-
age plants by Apion griseum Sm. is of interest.

APION GRISEUM Sm.

September 25, 1899, our correspondent sent seedpods of the Met-
ealfe bean (Phaseolus retusus), together with specimens of the beetle.
This weevil was stated to be very destructive to this plant, which has
been mentioned by Dr. Jared G. Smith as one of the most promising
of our native forage plants." The weevil was said to be also destruc-
tive to the “Raphael” bean (Phaseolus wrightii), and we have
received the same species from Phaseolus beans from Tolima, Mexico.

This species has also been observed by the writer to develop in the
seedpods of a wild bean, Phaseolus polystachyus (perennis). Eight-
een individuals were found on opening a pod of this plant at Ross-
lyn, Va., April 22. One seed had harbored eleven Apions, all of
which perished owing to their inability to escape from the pod,

“Yearbook, U. S. Department of Agriculture, for 1897, p. 506.

29

30 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

which had evidently died prematurely as a result of overinfestation
by the weevils. Pods were examined during the first week of October,
and at this time half of those gathered were infested. The sound
pods may be easily separated from the infested ones, since the latter
are flattened, discolored, and sometimes even distorted, while sound
and fully matured pods are full and round like a diminutive pea-pod.
Most individuals were in the pupal condition at the last-mentioned
period. The adults, hke others of the genus, feed upon the leaves,
piercing them with innumerable holes, from 20 to as many as 60 such
punctures being sometimes visible on a single small leaf.

The insect hibernates in the beetle condition, escapes from the pod
about May or June, or earlier if the pod happens to crack, and the
punctures made upon the early appearance of the insect are plainly
visible in October.

Sareful comparison of the writer’s reared material of Apion griseum
with typical specimens in the U.S. National Museum (some of which
appear to be types) of A. fraternum, identified as such by Dr. J. B.
Smith, who described that species, shows that this is the same insect
which was found by Dr. C. V. Riley on Strophostyles (Phaseolus)
paucifiora as cited by Smith. The identity of these two forms has
also been recognized by Fall in his revision of the genus.“

The chaleidid fly Catolaccus incertus Ashm. was reared from in-
fested pods, and is undoubtedly parasitic on this Apion.

APION COLON Sharp.

February 6, 1908, Dr. Edward Palmer furnished specimens of this
species collected at Alvarez, San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on a species of
wild bean with scarlet flowers and tuberous
roots, which is used as a cure for hydrophobia
(Palmer’s No. 63).

This species is not known to occur in our lim-
its, but is mentioned because of possible economic
importance.

The accompanying illustration (fig. 7) repre-
sents a European species, and will assist the ay-
erage student of entomology in recognizing wee-
vils of the genus. Upward of 100 species of the
1G. 7—Apion assi. genus Apion have been recognized in America

mile, greatly en. north of Mexico, and most of these are minute

eee or almost microscopic. It follows, therefore, as
there is considerable generic resemblance throughout, that these
many different forms are difficult of differentiation, both sexes being
frequently rec juired to make specific determination. The body is

a Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., Vol. XXV, wiite 1898.

AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN APION, ETC. 31

elongate pyriform, or pear-shaped; the rostrum or beak is more or

less prolonged in front of the eyes, and the head back of the eyes is

usually constricted, forming a neck. The antenne are delicate and

elbowed.
NOTES ON RELATED FORMS.

The following observations on other species of Apion are chiefly
from the writer’s personal experience, and all rearings should be so
credited, with the exception of those where the collector or observer
is mentioned : |

Apion eneipenne Sm.—During the first two weeks of June nu-
merous examples of this species were obtained at Rosslyn, Va., by
beating a common tick-trefoil (Meibomia |[Desmodium]). When
the beetles were confined with leaves they riddled them with minute
holes after the manner of the commoner A. nigrum on locust.

Apion turbulentum Sm.—This species was observed during the
latter half of September in and near Cabin John, Md., and in con-
siderable numbers on JJeibomia marylandica. The beetles were
numerous, occurring on the seeds, in which they undoubtedly live,
although they were not reared.

Apion cribricolle Lec—We have, among the Department notes,
one on the rearing of this beetle from a species of lotus (Lotus
[[Tosackia\ glabra) from Henwood, Santa Cruz County, Cal.

Apion proclive Lec. vy 18, , Mr. E. M. Ehrhorn reported
that this species was infesting the pods of Lupinus arborea at Pacific
Grove, Cal., where nearly every pod showed signs of attack. A
similar attack to lupine was reported by Mr. Ehrhorn in 1907 at
San Francisco, Cal. The beetles issued September 5-19. The species
proves to be parasitized by a chalcidid.

Apion patruele Sm.—This species was found abundantly on a
climbing wild legume at Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island, N. Y., in
July. The plant at this time was in bloom, and there is little doubt
that the larva inhabits the pods.

Apion segnipes Say.—-The writer has reared from this species,
found in its well-known food plant, the goat’s rue (Cracca |Teph-
rosia| virginiana), the chalcidid parasite Kurytoma tylodermatis
Ashm., in August, in Maryland, near the District of Columbia. The
writer has also reared this species from its larva found in the cells of
Tyloderma foveolatum in October. There is fair indication, there-
fore, of two generations.

Apion decoloratum Sm.—This species breeds in the seed pods of
the genus Meibomia. Beetles have been reared from J/. paniculata
and I. grandiflora, and exit holes have been observed in pods of all
of the species of this genus of plants that have come under observation
in Maryland and Virginia about Washington. The beetles began

32 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

issuing from the pods September 21, and most of those in the field had
escaped by the end of the month. Stragglers, however, continued to
issue from the material gathered until the end of October. Mr. Fall
states that ‘ Mr. Wickham has found the species in some abundance
on Desmodium in Iowa City.” Catolaccus incertus Ashm. was reared
with this species.

Apion herculanum Sm. was reared July 24-28 from the dried fruit
of sheepberry (Viburnum lentago), and beetles were taken in the
same locality, Marshall Hall, Md., in May on V. acerifolium in bloom.
At Ithaca, N. Y., it was takén in fair abundance on the flowers of
this same plant, collected May 28, June 5-20, and July 2-6 several
years previously. Mr. Schwarz informs the writer that he has
reared the species also from dogwood (Cornus sp.).

O

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 64, Part V.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE -
LOCO WEEDS.

BY
v
FE. H. CHITTENDEN, So...D.,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

IssuED May 29, 1908.

C

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1908.

2Z01TAS

CO! NFE EON-ESs

The false-indigo gall-moth ( Walshia amorphella Clem.)_.........-.--..------
The loco xoot-macsot\(Legonyatupint, Coq:)2 6 4 ee
The fickleanidge (Sciara intonstans Eitel) 22°22). 232 ee eee ee
The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevr.)..........---------
Lhe yellowlocotly(Mnioxa acura: Waew.\isn= Paes ee
The spotted reotb. ily: (Muresta rotate Wied.) 252 see ee ae ay ee
The bur-clover'aphis: (Aphis medicaginis Koch ) 4s See ea
Theimeal snout-moth; (Pyralisjoritalisl. 22 ewan Fane eee eee oe

PEEUSE RATE PONS:

. The false-indigo gall-moth ( Walshia amorphella): Adult, larva, work. -
. The tickle midge (Sciara inconstans): Adults and details, larva, pupa. -
. The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus): Adult........---
. The four-lined loco weevil ( Cleonus quadrilineatus): Cocoon..--..--.-
. Thespotted root fly (uxesta notata): Adult maleand female_..... .-
5. The meal snout-moth (Pyralis farinalis): Adult, larva and details,

chrysalis'and detaile:: 22) = See ae ena eee ee ee ee

. Bruchus obsoletus:

II

Adult andtdetailsas2e-2 te 5 5 ee eee

me me be oo to Oo & &
SDI O oto MN | epy t,)

40

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part V. Issued May 29, 19.8

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

For many years the Bureau of Entomology has conducted corre-
spondence in regard to insects found on the loco weeds of the semiarid
regions of the West. In earlier years these insects were found chiefly
on purple or woolly loco, Astragalus mollissimus, and more recently
on the white loco, Avragallus lamberti. It was at one time supposed by
stockmen that the insects might be the cause of the poisoning to sheep.
cattle, and other stock, but such is not the case.

The general subject of loco poisoning to stock has been treated in
various publications, but the insect inhabitants of the weeds have
never received mention in this connection, with the exception of the
false-indigo gall-moth,¢ which is apparently the principal insect de-
stroyer of the loco. Numbers of correspondents and observing bota-
nists have noticed that the caterpillar of this insect, which feeds at the
roots and crowns of locos, is quite instrumental in reducing their abun-
dance. Recently Dr. C. Dwight Marsh, Bureau of Plant Industry,
has collected many insects on locos and expresses the opinion that sev-
eral other species are concerned in this work. Chief among these are
the fickle midge,’ the loco root-maggot,° the four-lined loco weevil,’
and the spotted root fly. Of these the root-maggot, midge, and root
fly are probably in the main attracted to the plants after the gall-
moth has first caused injury, but the weevil also attacks living roots,
usually, however, according to observations, after the plant has pro-
duced its quota of seed.

The following account of loco insects has been prepared from the
records of the Bureau of Entomology, much of the material having
also been supplied by Doctor Marsh, and in the list which follows it

“Walshia amorphella Clem. ICleonus quadrilineatus Chevy.
» Sciara inconstans Fitch. © Buresta notata Wied.
© Pegomya lupini Coq.

34 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

will be understood that the locality Hugo, Colo., is the one in which
he collected specimens for identification. This account does not pre-
tend to be an exhaustive one, but 1s more in the nature of a list, with
notes on such species as appear to be concerned in killing out the weed.
Considering the toxic qualities of the locos, the insects which affect
them, with some exceptions, may be classified as highly beneficial,
since the species which have just been mentioned have in some cases
completely rid large areas of loco weeds.

THE FALSE-INDIGO GALL-MOTH.
(Walshia amorphella Clem.)

Prior to 1886 the larva of this species was known oniy as a gall
maker on the stems of false indigo (lmorpha fruticosa) and was
described from moths reared from that plant in 1864. -An account
of the species and _ its
habits was afterwards
given by Riley in 1870.4
He stated that as the

ered and died above the
gall, and as the shrub
was of no special value,
the species might be
placed among our harm-
less insects. In early
records of the Bureau
Fic. 8.—False-indigo gall-moth (Walshia amorphella): a, Fe- of Entomology there are
male moth; bd, larva; c, gall in false indigo, showing exit numerous references to
teen Or Fe onal oe ee Ot a
currence on false indigo.

In 1886 a second food plant, Astragalus mollissimus, was recorded.”

This moth (fig. 8, @) belongs to the family Tineide and has a wing
expanse of about half an inch. It is grayish yellow, spotted with
dark brown, and both wings are provided, as in others of this group,
with very long posterior fringes, longer than the wings themselves.
The larva or caterpillar (fig. 8, 6) 1s yellowish white, with the head
and thoracic plate dark brown. It measures from a third to two-
fifths of an inch in length.

Our records of the distribution of this species show that it has been
observed most commonly from Towa and Missouri westward to Cali-
fornia, although it occurs also in the Atlantic region. It is quite

42nd Rept. State Ent. Mo., pp. 132-138.
> Proc. Ent. Soe. Wash., Vol. I, p. 30.

twigs invariably with- .

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 35

singular that the larva should have the dual habit of forming galls
on a shrub, as in the case of its occurrence eastward, and at the same
time boring into the roots of weeds, as is its western habit. From
the experience of many persons who have been in correspondence with
this office in regard to the habits of this insect, there can be no hesita-
tion in reiterating that it is the most potent element in the destruction
of the loco weed of the West. In this connection it may be weil to
mention briefly what some of our correspondents have reported. Mr.
Thomas J. Quillian, Birmingham, Colo., wrote, April 9, 1889, that
from observations conducted by himself and a fellow stockgrower he
was led to believe that possibly the “ worms” eaten by the stock pro-
duced the craziness (and sometimes death) instead of the plant, as
was generally supposed, this conclusion being more plausible because
upon opening the dead animals many “ worms” were always found.
Mr. D. H. Marum, Weodward, Okla., has written that in that vicinity
the plants begin to die about the last week in May. At that time the
small * worms” are found in the roots, which they hollow out com-
pletely, leaving practically nothing but a shell. He suggested the
possibility of propagating these and other loco insects with a view
to destroying the weed. Mr. Thomas Carson, Bovina, Tex., writing
of the great loss in cattle in that section, stated that this insect, which
he had observed devouring the heart of the loco, was very efficient in
reducing the abundance of this noxious weed and had proved very
beneficial to the cattle interests. In closing, it should be added that
in the extreme west, as, for example, at Alameda, Cal., this species has
been observed breeding on Lupinus arborea.

THE LOCO ROOT-MAGGOT.
(Pegomya lupini Coq.)

The loco root-maggot has been prominent among insects found
feeding en the roots of Astragalus mollissimus for a number of years.
Doctor Marsh says that in the neighborhood of Hugo, Colo., it is
apparently the most important agent in the suppression of the pur-
ple loco. It is probable that it will rank second to the false-indigo
gall-moth as a destroyer of this plant. On this head Mr. George
Hochderffer, Flagstaff, Ariz., who, on April 7, 1907, sent specimens
found at the roots of the plant, stated that hundreds of acres of loco
had been destroyed by this insect, and he believed not only that it
might prove to be a valuable friend to stockmen, but that it had
already proven so.

It is the larva of a species of anthomyiid fiy closely related to the
seed-corn maggot,” the adult being readily distinguished from that

: * Pegomya fusciceps Zett.

36 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

of the latter by the long bristles on the underside of the posterior
femora or hind thighs. It was described in 1901 from flies obtained
from the stems of Lupinus alba from Los Angeles, Cal.* This species
resembles the common house fly, though more slender and of a more
distinetly gray color. The larve are white maggots and resemble the
seed-corn maggot. They infest chiefly the crown of the plant, seldom,
if ever, entering the roots, but penetrating into the larger stems;
sometimes, it is reported, going as far as the base of the flowers.

We have records of the rearing of this species from A. mollissimus
from material collected at Sherlock, Kans., and from Lupinus arborea
at Alameda, Cal.,in April. In June, 1887, it was received from New
Mexico with statement by Dr. V. Havard that it was breeding in
the roots of A. mollissimus. At this time we were conducting con-
siderable correspondence with Doctor Havard in regard to the insect
enemies of this plant in Kansas, New Mexico, and Texas. Doctor
Havard stated, among other things, that at that time it was some-
what generally believed that ‘* locoism ” on the part of stock animals
was due, not to any deleterious property of the plants, but to the
larvee of insects found abundantly in the stems and roots. In all
specimens received by him from New Mexico the stems, without ex-
ception, were bored by the larvee of this species. Flies from this last
lot began issuing June 10. In May, 1905, and January, 1908, this
species was again received from locos from Hugo, Colo. In that
locality it was associated with Huvesta notata and Sciara inconstans.

THE FICKLE MIDGE.
(Sciara inconstans Fitch).

This minute gnat-like fly was reared from purple loco received from
Hugo, Colo., in 1906, the adults issuing May 24. During 1907-8 addi-
tional specimens were received from the same source. Doctor Marsh
has expressed the behef that this species, with the larger maggot, Pe-
gomya lupini Coq., 1s one of the chief causes of the destruction and
apparent temporary extermination of this loco weed in that section
of Colorado. The members of the family to which it belongs, the
Mycetophilide, are for the most part scavengers, feeding on decom-
posing vegetable matter, including fungous growths, whence their
name of * fungus gnats.” Taken as a whole, however, the family dis-
plays great diversity in habits and the present species is the most
widely distributed and most nearly omnivorous of its kind. It feeds
on vegetation of almost all forms, occurring destructively in green-
houses, as also in the open, in cultivated and uncultivated regions.
It appears to be most abundant in the Northern States.

“Ent. News, September, 1901, pp. 206-207.

—_—

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 37

The insect is shown in its different stages, highly magnified, in
figure 9. The size is indicated by the hairlines at the right of the
figure. It will be noticed that the female fly (¢) is larger than the

Fic. 9.—Fickle midge (Sciara inconstans) : a, Male fly; b, external genital organs of male ;
ce, female; d, enlarged antennal joints of same; e, maxillary palpus of same; f, tip of
abdomen of female from side; g, pupa, ventral view; fh, larva, dorsal view. 4a, ¢, g, h,
Much enlarged; b, d, e, f, more enlarged. (Author's illustration. )

male. The latter (@) is recognized by its claspers, shown much en-

larged at b. The larva is a delicate, thread-like maggot of milk-white

color with a jet-black head. On account of its minute size—about 4

of an inch in length—its presence is very

frequently unnoticed in greenhouses, al-
though the flies are more conspicuous, from
their habit of flying about on the “ glass.”

In some cases this species is confused with

nematodes or eel-worms.”

THE FOUR-LINED LOCO WEEVIL.
(Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevy.)
This curculionid weevil was found breed-
ing in considerable numbers on wlragallus

lamberti at Hugo, Colo., during 1907, by
Dr. C. D. Marsh, whe reports very appre-

clable injury. As a rule, however, this
F1G. 10.—Four-lined loco weevil species does not occur in numbers until

Sie can toaciaen, Amit after the plants have made good growth

and have seeded.

This beetle, (fig. 10) measures about half an inch in length; has a
stout rostrum or beak, a little shorter than the thorax: is black. and
densely coated with gray pubescence alternating with two pairs of
longitudinal black lines, one subsutural and the other submarginal.

4A more complete account of this insect appeared in Bul. 27, n. s., Div. Ent.,
U. S. Dept. Agric., pp. 108-113, 1901.

38 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Practically nothing is known of the life history of any species of
the genus, of which there are quite a number. The beetles are par-
tial to Astragalus and Aragallus and feed also on lupines and related
plants. The larve are undoubtedly root or stalk feeders. The pres-
ent species in the larval stage affects the roots and transforms in the
ground in comparatively large earthen cocoons, such as are shown in
the illustration (fig. 11).

Fig. 11.—Four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus) : Cocoon. (Original. )
THE YELLOW LOCO FLY.
(Tritoxa incurva Loew.)

This species was collected at Hugo, Colo., on Avragallus lamberti.
It is a two-winged fly of the family Ortalide and is recorded as
having the same habits as the black onion fly (7ritova flera Wied.),
whose larva or maggot lives in the bulbs of onions; indeed, it was at
one time considered a color variety of the latter. The wing markings
are almost identical, but the face, thorax, and most of the abdomen
are brownish yellow, whereas in the onion fly these parts are black.
Its body is about one-third of an inch long, each wing having a little
shorter measurement. Neither species under consideration is, as a
rule, especially abundant, but both are capable of being very destruc-
tive to plant life when they multiply in numbers, as may happen any
year in some localities.

THE SPOTTED ROOT FLY.
(Euresta notata Wied.)

This pretty little fly of omnivorous habits was reared from <Lstra-
galus mollissimus from Hugo, Colo., in June and July, 1905, being
associated with the fickle midge and the loco root-maggot. In its

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 39

larval stage it displays a remarkable diversity of habits, although it
is evidently by choice a root feeder and is also, with the seed-corn
maggot and many related insects, a scavenger by nature, following in
some cases original attack by some other form of insect. It has been
recorded by Dr. L. O. Howard as having been bred from larve in
human excrement in houses and out of doors. Mr. E. G. Titus has
reared it from sugar beet collected at Olney, Colo., and from cockle-
bur collected at St. Matthews, S. C., where it was feeding in the cells_
of a weevil, Baris transversa. In September, 1905, it was reared by
the writer from onions infested by 77ritova flexa from Williamson
School, Pa., and there is positive evidence that it had fed on the
onion bulbs, as neither stems nor leaves were present. Dr. J. B.
Smith also has reared it from onions. In 1906 it was reared from
corn on the farm of Dr. B. T. Galloway near the District of Colum-
bia, where it was reported injurious, the injury being at first attrib-

Fic. 12.—Spotted root fly (Buresta notata) : Adult male at right; female at left.
Much enlarged (original).

uted to the seed-corn maggot, as attack was to seed corn and resem-
bled the work of the latter species. From cabbage it has been reared
on two occasions, viz, from the roots collected at Washington, D.
C., and from maggot-infested roots received from Bethel, Alaska.
It has also been bred from the pulp of Osage orange, from apples in-
fested by the codling moth, from sumach fruit, from the bolls of
cotton, and from Solanum. It is not rare in diseased cotton bolls.

This fly belongs to the same family as the preceding, the Ortali-
dee, and is shown in figure 12, where it will be seen that it has a large
head and flat body. Each wing is marked with two black spots.
The female is distinguished from the male by its more slender form,
smaller head, and pointed abdomen, which bears near the anal ex-
tremity a distinct white transverse band. The body is metallic blue.

Our rearings show that larve have come under observation from
May 27 to as late as October 2 and that flies have issued from various
sources June 10—July 30, September 8-21, and throughout October.

40 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

THE BUR-CLOVER APHIS.
(Aphis medicaginis Woch.)

This species is well known to attack both Astragalus and Aragallus,
as well as various other related plants, including clover, cowpea,
alfalfa, coffee bean (Cassia), bur-clover, Caragana arborescens,
Robinia viscosa, Melilotus italica, and Glycyrrhiza lepidota. It has
also been observed on oxalis, and on cotton associated with the
common and more destructive cotton or melon aphis.

Certain of our correspondents have remarked on the occurrence
of ladybirds and ants on infested loco plants, conclusive evidence
in the case of the ladybirds, Hippodamia convergens Guér., that
aphides were present.

The present species has a considerable literature, having been de-
scribed in 1857 and afterwards treated more or less fully by Monell,
Thomas, Oestlund, Cowen, Osborn, Hunter,’ and Sanderson.

A somewhat complete account of this aphis was given by Sanderson
in 1906.2 including a consideration of its food pleats and descriptions
of different stages as well as references to literature. Still other
bibliographical references have been given by Hunter.* ‘This species
is evidently of foreign origin and was first noticed in this country at
St. Louis, Mo., by Monell in 1879.

THE MEAL SNOUT-MOTH.
(Pyralis farinalis lL.)

During July, 1907, a colony of the larva of this beatiful pyralid
moth was observed by the writer breeding in the roots of Astragalus
mollissimus received from Hugo, Colo. Since the species is of cosmo-
politan distribution and commonly
found in most barns, storehouses, and
even in dwellings, it can not be posi-
tively stated that it attacks loco roots
in the open, but it quite likely infests
the dead roots. Frequently this spe-
cies breeds in clover hay, after the
Fic. 13.—Meal snout-moth (Pyralis fari- manner of the clover-hay worm,” to

nalis): a, Moth; 8, larva; ¢, chrysalis, which it is related: As a ruleqge

natural size; d, head of larva; ¢, anal larva requires for its development a

segment of larva; f, tip of pupa. En- if - 3
larged (author's illustration). certain amount of moisture, feeding
on dry material which has become
heated, as in the case of stored grain or stacked hay. This species 1s
shown natural size, the moth at @ and the larva at 0 of figure 13.
More complete accounts of the meal snout-moth are given elsewhere.’

4 Bul. 60, Iowa Agr. Exp. Sta., The Aphididee of North America, 1901, p. 101.

» Bul. 57, Bur. Ent., U.S. Dept. Agr., pp. 26-29.

¢ Hypsopygia (Asopia) costalis Fab.

@ See Yearbook U.S. Department of Agriculture for 1894, p. 286, and Farmers’
Bulletin 45, pp. 10, 11.

od ts aie

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 41

PLANT-BUGS, LEAFHOPPERS, ETC.

Numerous plant-bugs, leafhoppers, and related insects were ob-
served and collected at Hugo, Colo. As a considerable portion of
these were in the nymph or immature stages, comparatively few
were identified specifically. The list follows:

Alydus ecurinus Say and A, pluto Uhl., coreid plant-bugs bearing some relation
to the squash bug, were among the number. The former has been recorded
attacking Lima beans and cowpeas; hence, it is quite probable that both feed
en loco and lupines, which are of the same botanical family.

Dasycoris humilis Uhl., another coreid of unknown habits.

Geocoris griseus Dall., a plant-bug of the family Lygveide.

Hadronema militaris Uhl., a small capsid or leaf-bug. It infests Amaranthus
and beets. Probably accidental.

Stiphrosoma atrata Uhl., also a capsid, of unknown habits.

Philanus bilineatus Say, a cercopid leafhopper which probably feeds on
grasses.

Deltocephalus flerulosus Ball, a jassid leafhopper.

Bruchomorpha dorsata Fitch, a fulgorid.

Nabis ferus L., a predatory form. It doubtless destroys many of the other
bugs, especially in their immature stages.

MISCELLANEOUS INSECTS.

Agromyza eneiventris Fallen, a small fly, was reared from pupe at the
roots of Aragallus from Flagstaff, Ariz., received in April, 1907, from Mr. Geo.
Hochderffer. We have office records of the rearing of this species from the
roots of clover and from Jarvie found in burrows
in the stems of Ambrosia. The fly was reared
by the writer from mines in garden peas col-
lected at Washington, D. C., August 10, 1904.
The insects issued July 30. Pea leaves are, in
fact, quite often infested by this miner.

Unknown leaf-bectle.—December 14, 1901,
Mr. D. P. Marum, Woodward, Okla., wrote of
an insect which fed upon the leaves of Astra-
galus mollissimus. During April of that year
he noticed that a few stems in each bill of loco vA
were stripped of leaves, and found on the plants
au small beetle which he believed to be a lady-

Fic. 14.—Bruchus-obsoletus : a, Beetle:

bird, althovgh it did not have the bright spots b, antenna; ¢, prothorax. a,c, Much
known to be present on Coccinellidie inhabiting | eMrged:; }, more enlarged. (From
Riley.)

that region.

Bruchus obsoletus Say (fig. 14) was stated by its describer to have been
found on a species of Astragalus, but recent researches show that the plant in
question was a related one, the goats’ rue, Cracea (Tephrosia) virginica.4

Bruchus aureolus Horn.—Recorded as occurring on the flowers of Astragalus
in Owens Valley, Cal. (Insect Life, Vol. V., pp. 166, 167).

Unknown hymenopterous gall.—Among other material collected at Hugo,
Colo., were stems of Aragallus lamberti containing elongated fusiform galls
one-half to one ineh in length and about one-third that in width. Each of these
contained a single large hymenopterous larva: these, however, were not reared.

7 An illustration of this insect and its food plant were furnished in the
Annual Report of the Department of Agriculture for SOAs. Lee, el. Vil:

49 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Rusticus (Lycend) acmon Doubl. & Hew. This very pretty blue butterfly
was reared from Astragalus mollissimus from Hugo, Colo., the adult issuing
July 20, 1906. Nothing has been published in regard to the natural habits of
this species, and it is not known if it plays any important part in the reduction
of the loco weeds.

Grasshoppers and related insects were collected in some numbers at Hugo,
Colo., on Aragallus lamberti. They were mostly in the nymph condition and
therefore could not be readily identified. There were two species of grasshop-
pers (Melanoplus spp.), each occurring in about equal numbers, and a smaller
grasshopper (Opeia obscura Scudd.), a walking stick (Parabacillus coloradus
Seudd.) and a tree-cricket (@canthus sp.). Probably none of these accom-
plishes much in the line of defoliation of the loco with the exception of the two
Melanopli, which are allied to the pernicious Rocky mountain locust.

Aphiocheta pygmea Zett.—This small fly, which belongs to the Phoride, was

reared from Astragalus mollissimus, from Hugo, Colo., July, 1906, from roots in ~

which other species were breeding. This is a European species known from
Texas westward to California.

In the compilation of the above list the writer is indebted to Mr.
D. W. Coquillett for assistance in identifying some of the Diptera
mentioned, to Mr. Otto Heidemann for the identifications of the
plant-bugs, leafhoppers, etc., and to Mr. A. N. Caudell for naming
the grasshoppers and related insects.

O

> DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 64, Part VI.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.

BY

H. M. RUSSELL,

Agent and Expert.

Issurep AuGustr 4, 1909.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

1909.

201404

COND ENDS:

Page
Introduction... 0.222 225.2 25 2 Sigs Sa ee a ee oe 43
FI StOTY sie 28 oo. 2c 22 2 NES oe eae eo Fr ale ee a chai 43
Recent records. ...-. AA Mee eS tre eM eats St ees hg a el 85 oa 22 44
Nature andextent oiimy Unless sass e =a a=e ee oe Steers OR et BE 5.035 44
Origin and. distributions. =.) seen =. he sete eon ee eee 45
Description 62 jseees eee ee ee te Sale te ER 2, act, eh a Napa Rec ae ee ee 46
Phe ‘adult..0. ergs oe Sk eo Bon ene ayer ee ee 46
The ‘e88 o.es5. hee feo oe ah eee Bes oe 47
Fhe larva, firstistages: i225.) 25°12 Shes We ee ee 47
The larva ssecond staves s- 45-255 sons ee ee DSLRs See 47
Theyoung mymphorprep wpa as. 5- 2 sae eee ee ee Sere a5. 47
he full-crown mymph-or pupa i230 6222s sas ee ee SEL See 48
Habits:of. the adult. 222 22.5 Sse Fo ask is al eee ee 48
Habitsiotsthe darver 3943.2 Gans Fo hee ae) ae ee ee 49
Habits. of the prepupa and pupa... 222.92. Ce eee 50
Food planters ls Se cs oe Gere Se CE er a dl
eife history. 20 eno ee ae. ee Bee ee 51
ihfeieyicle). 2255. Sas SEE ek ee ee dL
Longevity - <2 20.5.04 5 Wee cee cao ee ee ee ee 51
Generations: . 5 ho. si dee Sha ae ane ee ee 52
Naturalcontrols. 25.4 9525 sans Soe soot ree See ae eee 52
Rad. 2s Sane 22 Si. hota eee ot Se a ee ee 52
Natural enemies.: 2c! Joi 2.3. tec ene a ere Oe ee ee 52
Artificial controls: <2 325.035 el EO ee 52
Experiments with remedies -<2 4220. se) s< = ee 52
Fumigation experiments... 2525. 2¢ eee ee ee 52
Spriyimg experiments 25-45) 5..- ae ee behest ee 56
Summary ‘of experiments: - 72: <si2se: SS ae ee eee 57
Remedies recommended 5) 50.0 sees. 3 eee ee ee eee 57
Bibliography -2s.- <3: 42 3: 2550552 fags eee ek eee 58
ILEUS Roos:

Page.

Fie. 15. Greenhouse thrips (Heliothrips hxemorrhoidalis): Adult female and
antennas. 252eee see eee eee eater Fe adn asics Seer ee 46
16. Greenhouse thrips: Egg, first-stage larva, full-grown larva........-.-- AT

17. Greenhouse thrips: Prepupa, pupasc-: -2.: /--3--" 522 ea.
I

wos.p. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VI. Issued August 4, 1909.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.

By H. M. Russet1,
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

This insect has been known since 1833 to have been the cause of
tauch injury to greenhouse plants; but its life history has never been
fully worked out.¢ The writer, while engaged in field work in the
State of Florida during 1907, had his attention called to a ‘ diseased”
condition of crotons in one of the greenhouses at Orlando. This
condition was found to be caused by the extreme abundance of a spe-
cies of thrips feeding on the foliage. Specimens of the adult were
sent to Dr. W. E. Hinds, who determined them to be /eliothrips
hemorrhoidalis Bouché. While working under the direction of
Dr. F. H. Chittenden during the winter of 1907-8, the writer made a
study of this insect’s life history and the means by which it might be
controlled.

- HISTORY.

The species was first described by Bouché,! in 1833, as Thrips
hemorrhoidalis from specimens taken in a greenhouse in Europe. At
that time he wrote that he believed the native land of the species to
be America. That this supposition was correct appears evident at
the present time.

Packard,” writing in 1870, described this species for the first time
from this country. He wrote: “This is one of the greatest pests in
our hothouses. It is the Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis of Burmeister.”
Packard called it the greenhouse thrips and gave a meager descrip-
tion of the larva and adult, and an illustration of the latter, but
neither descriptions nor drawing are exact enough to identify speci-
mens. He furnished a list of food plants, a description of injury,
and recommended washing plants with soapsuds as a remedy.

@The external and internal anatomy of this insect has been fully worked out by
several European entomologists, while others have made incomplete studies of the
life history on the Continent.

43

44 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Under the name Thrips adondum, A. J. Cook, writing of this spe-
cies, in 1874; said: ‘Around Detroit, here at Adrian, and in our south-
ern counties they are likewise a serious pest.”’

In 1882 Mr. Th. Pergande™ recorded this msect as taken out of
doors at Washington, D. C., on apple late in November. J. A. Lint-
ner,” in 1885, on this authority, lists it as an insect affecting the apple.

Nothing more was written about this species in this country until
1896, when G. C. Davis* wrote of “a black species, Heliothrips hemor-
rhoidalis, which we have found most common on croton plants. As
far as noticed its work is confined to the underside of the leaves,
where the spots are eaten, so that the work clearly resembles that of
the red spider.”

Dr. F. H. Chittenden, in 1902, predicted that this species, which
he called the “ greenhouse thrips,” would probably increase in num-
bers and destructiveness with time.

Hinds* wrote of this insect the same year: “It has been very inju-
rious in some places.’’ He also added that it was called the “black
fly” in Germany and that its life history was unknown.

RECENT RECORDS.

This species, determined by Mr. Pergande, was sent in to the
Bureau of Entomology, January 8, 1908, by Mr. P. J. Wester, of
Miami, Fla., who collected it on mango ( Mangifera indica). Hewrote:
“Tt has never appeared to do serious damage until this year.”
Mr. I. J. Condit, a collaborator of this bureau, at San Luis Obispo,
Cal., reported it injurious in a greenhouse at that place in September,
1908, and again reported it on November 2, 1908, as injurious to orna-
mentals in one of the parks at Santa Barbara, Cal.

NATURE AND EXTENT OF INJURY.

The damage caused by the greenhouse thrips is confined to the
foliage of ornamental plants entirely, in so far as the author is aware,
for he knows of no recorded injury to the blossoms of plants nor has
he noticed any. Injury effected by the thrips is due to the method of
feeding on the plants. Adults and larve both obtain their food by
puncturing the epidermis of the leaf with their sharp mouth-parts,@
and after lacerating the tissue they suck out tissue and plant juices
at the point of attack. The insects then attack the leaf in a new
place, so that in time it becomes full of tiny, pale-colored spots where
the tissue and chlorophyll have been extracted.

In the case of croton plants, upon which this insect was studied,
injury was noticed first on the older leaves and gradually, as these
became badly infested, the injury spread until the young leaves were

Part I, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., pp. 2-3, 1907.

ie
wy

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 45

attacked, soon after unfolding. The infested leaves first showed
injury on the underside, where the surface appeared full of minute
white spots. As attack continued, these spots became more numer-
ous and united, forming blotches where the leaf was devoid of tissue.
The injury then became apparent from the upper side, as the surface
developed a twisted and distorted aspect between the lateral veins,
and was finally evidenced by wilted and dead areas around the edges
of the leaf. In severe attacks the insects spread to the upper sur-
face of the leaves, and in a short time this as well as the underside is
nearly devoid of color. Both surfaces become thickly covered with
minute drops of reddish fluid voided by the thrips, which gradually
change to black. As the attack continues, the leaves become limp and
yellow and eventually drop off, so that plants that were not treated
to prevent injury in many cases lost their entire foliage. The injury
is similar on other ornamentals.

This insect injures plants in two ways: First, it causes a serious
drain on the vitality of the plant from the feeding of thousands of
thrips, so that the growth is seriously checked and in neglected cases
would cause the death of the plant. Secondly, it destroys the beauty
of the plants for ornament by despoiling them of their foliage.

ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION.

Although this insect was first described from Europe and is there
widely distributed, it is without doubt indigenous to tropical America.
Pergande’ writes that this insect was ‘‘probably introduced with
ornamental plants from the warmer regions of America;’’ and that it
“4s found upon wild and cultivated plants in Brazil.’”’ Franklin”
records it in Barbados as follows: ‘‘This species is found in the open
in St. Vincent and Barbados. It is evidently a tropical species.’’
This insect has been collected at Miami, Fla., on plants growing in the
open in midwinter. Moulton” says, ‘‘out of doors it feeds and be-
comes very destructive to Laurestinas.”’ Mr. Condit, writing of this
species from Santa Barbara, Cal., November 2, 1908, said that it was
doing considerable damage to ornamentals in one of the parks.

These records of occurrences at several localities in the Tropical and
Lower Austral life zones of this country point strongly to tropical
America as its original home. This is further strengthened because
of its well-known habit of living in greenhouses, in many localities,
upon exotic plants from the Tropics. From this habit it has become
widely distributed in Europe and North America. In Europe, Walker
and Cameron record it from several places in England, Bouché and
others from Germany, Heeger and Léw from Vienna, and Reuter
from Finland. It has also been recorded from France and Italy.

In this country it has been recorded from Massachusetts, from
several places in Michigan, and from Washington, D. C., Florida, and

46 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

California. It has been collected in Iowa and Pennsylvania and
recently in the Barbados and the island of St. Vincent.

Because of the fact that it has been collected in such widely dis-
tant places in all sections of the country, we can safely say that Heli-
othrips hemorrhoidalis is generally distributed in greenhouses through-
out the United States. .

DESCRIPTION.
Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis belongs to the family Thripide, the

genus being characterized by having antenne# with 8 segments and
the body with a markedly reticulated surface. This is especially

Fic. 15.—Greenhouse thrips (Heliothrins hemorrhoidalis): Adult female, enlarged about 50 diameters,
and greatly enlarged drawing of antenna underneath. (Original.)

pronounced on the head and thorax. The legs are unarmed and
the wings are characterized by having the fore-wings broad at the
base, with 2 longitudinal veins.

The adult (fig. 15).—When the adult first emerges the abdomen is
pale yellow, with the head and thorax darker, and the antenna, legs,
and wings appearing white. In the course of several hours, however,
the insect becomes fully colored. The head and thorax are then
dark brown, the abdomen yellowish brown, fading at the apex to
brownish-yellow. In the female the antenne are twice as long as

e 4 "rs
“4s

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. A’

the head. The total length is about 1.25 mm. and the greatest
width, across the mesothorax, is about 0.30 mm.

The male has not been described, and this species is without ques-
tion parthenogenetic for many generations.

The egg.—The egg (fig. 16,a@) is bean-shaped, 0.296 mm. in length
and 0.088 mm. in width, very delicate, with a thin shell, and color-
less. Eggs are laid in the leaf tissue of the host plant, eee le on
the underside.

The larva, first stage (fig. 16, b).—[ Description made while larva was very young and
before it had commenced to feed on the plant.] Length, 0.31 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.10 mm. General shape fusiform; antenne, head, and legs very large in pro-
portion to the rest of the body. Color translucent white. Head large, quadrate; eyes
reddish, ocelli absent. Antennz 0.16 mm. in length; 7-segmented;} basal segment
cylindrical, short, with spine on inner side; second
segment twice as long as basal one and not as wide,
with 4 or 5 spines; third pedunculate, ringed, as
long as segments 1 and 2 combined, 2 long spines
near tip of segment; fourth pedunculate, nearly
twice as long as third, tip more slender than third,
ringed, a number of prominent spines near tip;
fifth, sixth, and seventh slender, equal in length,
and together equaling the length of the fourth, each
with one or two small spines near the tip. Legs
translucent white, long. Abdomen tapering pos-
teriorly; with 10 segments, the first 8 nearly equal
in length, ninth and tenth somewhat longer than
others. Each abdominal segment with longitudi-
nal rows of setz, the ninth with 2 and tenth with
4 spines that are three or four times the length of
the setze. 7 Fic. 16.—Greenhouse thrips: a, Egg;

The larva, second stage.—Length, 0.90 to0.97 mm. ; b, larva, first stage; c, larva, full
width of mesothorax, 0.22 to0.23mm.; shapeabout sag ( peers shout “0 tan
same as in first stage; body long, cylindrical, sides
nearly parallel until fifth abdominal segment, where they begin to taper to blunt point.
Color of thorax and abdomen slightly yellowish, last two segments of abdomen trans-
lucent white; alimentary tract plainly indicated by the brownish color given to it by
inclosed food; this extends from the metathorax to the sixth abdominal segment. Sur-
face of the body covered with minute granulations. Head quadrate, but with notch
behind the eyes on each side; eyes reddish, ocelliabsent. Antenne 7-segmented, third
and fourth distinctly spindle-shaped and annulated, fifth and sixth slightly annulated,
and together with seventh segment quite slender. Legs translucent white. Abdo-
men 0.50 mm. in length, fusiform, ovipositor not formed; segments with rows of fine
setze, similar to those in adult, increasing in length toward posterior end, ninth and
tenth segments equal in length (0.059 mm.).

The young nymph or prepupa (fig. 17, at left)—Length, 1.184 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.3404mm. Shape similar toadult. Head, length, 0.148 mm.; width at eyes,
0.1628 mm. Head translucent white, vertex slightly yellowish, ocelli absent, head

@ For a full characterization of the genus and of the species see Hinds’ s Monograph
of the Thysanoptera, pp. 168-170.

b After careful search the writer has been able to make out what he considers 7 seg-
ments in the antenne.

48 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

deeply notched behind eyes; eyes red, made up of a few large facets, surface faintly
reticulated ; head rounded in front; a pair of sete over rear angle of eyes, another pairin
front of the eyes, and a third over the antenne. Antenne translucent, extending
forward about twice the length of the head and composed of 7 segments; first segment
cylindrical, broader than long; second cylindrical, nearly twice as long as segment 1
and not so broad; third longer than second, base constricted but not pedunculate, and
with constriction at third and two-thirds length from base, so that it appears to be made
up of 3 segments; fourth spindle-shaped, about as long as third; 5, 6, and 7 short and
slender and not very clearly defined. Segments bear few spines on sides.

Prothorax nearly one-half again as wide as long, sides rounded, posterior edge broad-
est, semitranslucent white to faint yellow, a few prominent setz around edges. Meso-
thorax with prominent rounded angles, translucent white to faint yellow, surface
faintly reticulated, wing-cases translucent white, distinct from each other, those of
fore-wings extending to second abdominal segment and those of hind-wings extending
to middle of second abdominal segment. Legs translucent white to faint yellow, strong.
Abdomen shaped as in adult, white to faint yellow, last few segments translucent, eight
rows of setze in pairs, increasing in length
from anterior to posterior end. Length of
abdomen, 0.5956 mm.

The full-grown nymph or pupa (fig. 17, at
right).—Length, 1.25 mm.; width at meso-
thoracic angles, 0.2812mm. Shape similar
to that of adult. Color translucent white
toslightly yellowish. Head, length, 0.1628
mm.; width, 0.1924 mm.; translucent
white, distinctly reticulated, eyes dark red,
larger than in prepupal stage, facets large.
Three ocelli present in close triangle be-
tween eyes, color chitinous yellow. An-
tennz laid backward on head and reach-
ing to near middle of prothorax, segments
indistinct, translucent white. Segments
! land 2 projecting in front of the head and
Fig. 17.—Greenhouse thrips: Prepupa on the left 2 with a long spine extending forward,

ee Ont Balarger labout 340 0p 4339) mame gin length. Thorax plainly

reticulated, translucent white to faint yel-
low. Prothorax more than twice as broad as long. Wing cases 0.4736 mm. long,
extending to near middle of fifth abdominal segment, translucent white to faint
yellow. Length from head to end of wing-pads, 0.6512 mm. Legs translucent white
to pearly white. Abdomen broader and shorter than in adult, contracted, but of same
general shape, surface plainly reticulated, sete: well developed, the longest ones at
posterior end. Length of abdomen, 0.6956 mm.; width, 0.3552 mm.; length of
posterior sete, 0.0888 mm.

HABITS OF THE ADULT.

After emerging from the pup, the mature thrips feed on the under-
side of the leaves for several weeks. They are not, asa rule, as abun-
dant on the upper surface. One plant, on which there were about
150 adults, had only 3 or 4 of this number feeding on the upper sur-
face of the foliage.

Adults walk over the leaf quite rapidly, and if disturbed they raise
the tip of the abdomen and move rapidly away, walking in any direc-
tion. In a few cases they have been observed to jump when dis-

—

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 49

turbed, but generally they simply move rapidly. The writer has
never observed adults in flight, but that they do fly is certain, as he
has found that plants free from thrips and at a distance from infested
plants after a time will become infested by adults. As the study of
the life history of this species was carried on in an unheated green-
house with low temperature, it is quite possible that the adults were
rendered sluggish. It seems strange that the writer has not observed
their flight, for in studying this thrips he has examined a large num-
ber on plants and has purposely disturbed them to induce flight.
Adults often remain motionless for long periods, and in such cases rest
close to the veins of the leaf.

The eggs are laid singly in the tissues of the leaf, the female first
making an incision with her ovipositor and then pushing the egg into
the incision. She probably lays only 1 or 2 eggs in a day, as the eggs
are large and the ovaries will hold only a few matured eggs at one time.
One female examined had 6 eggs partly formed in her ovaries and 3 of
these were quite small. As the leaves become exhausted from the
feeding of larve and adults, the latter leave them and oviposit in
fresh young leaves, so that in time the exhausted leaves are deserted
and fall off and gradually the remainder of the plant becomes infested.

HABITS OF THE LARVE.

On March 5 larve were observed hatching from the eggs about 10
a.m. In all cases where larve emerged the leaf was marked by a
dark spot and the surface was slightly swollen.

When first observed the head of the larva was projecting slightly
out of a slit in the leaf epidermis, probably the same one that was
made in depositing the egg, and the light red eyes were very conspicu-
ous. Little by little the body is worked more and more out of the
opening, and as it projects in the air, working vigorously back and forth,
with its limbs folded against the body and invisible, it has the ap-
pearance of a minute worm in motion. When all but the tip of the
abdomen is free the tiny larva remains quiet for a very short time,
then one by one, beginning with the antenne, but the legs in no regu-
lar order, the appendages unfold. The larva moves them around
freely for a time and then, bending over, grasps the leaf surface and
commences to pull, in an effort to free the end of the abdomen. After
considerable work the larva frees itself and after a short rest moves
around in search of a place to feed. Some only travel a few inches,
others travel over a considerable portion of the leaf surface before
settling down to feed. The time required for the larva to emerge
varies from 6 to 12 minutes.

As a rule the larve are found on the underside of the leaves, but
when crowded, as in severe infestations, they attack the upper surface.

88328—Bul. 64, pt. 6—09——2

50 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

While they will feed anywhere on the leaf, in many cases they will
cluster together in colonies between two veins of the leaf. In one case
observed by the author a number of larve hatched from eggs on one
edge of the leaf and the next day were all feeding together on the
opposite edge. In another case a colony of 85 larvee was observed
collected in a circle between two veins near the edge of the leaf.
Many of the larve in this colony were moving around, but would not
separate from the colony.

The larve when first hatched are minute and colorless, but as soon
as they begin feeding the alimentary tract becomes plainly marked
from the dark reddish fluid contained in it. This fluid is excreted
and collects in globules on the tip of the abdomen, being held in place
by the terminal sete. The tip of the abdomen is elevated, and it
is an interesting sight to see numbers of these larvee moving over
the leaf with globules of red liquid suspended in the air on the tips
of the abdomen. When disturbed they become excited and move
around rapidly, jerking the abdomen from side to side. The globule
of liquid gradually increases in size until it is too large to carry, and
is then left on the surface of the leaf; where it dries as a small reddish
spot.

As long as the food supply in the leaf is fresh and abundant these
arve will remain on it, and thus the number becomes very large.
One leaf was found with about 250 larve, besides a number of pup
and adults. If disturbed, or if the leaf is beginning to wilt and lose
its vitality, the larve become restless, separate, and move around
over the leaf in search of fresh food, but eventually many will collect
again in colonies. They feed unprotected on the leaf, as far as their
own efforts are concerned, but in many cases they secrete themselves
under a slight web made by red spiders and are protected by it.
Upon leaves exposed in part to sunlight the larve seek that part of
the leaf which is the least exposed. They molt unprotected in the
midst of the feeding colony. These larve are delicate little crea-
tures, and if for any reason they are knocked from the plant most of
them soon die, not being able to travel far in returning to the food
plant.

HABITS OF THE PREPUPA AND PUPA.

The larve change to prepupe in the midst of the feeding colony
without seeking protected quarters, but nearly always on the under-
side of the leaf. The prepupze move around a little on the underside
of the leaf and generally are clustered in groups of from 4 to 10 pre-
pupx and pupe. In many cases they are under the web of red
spiders, but if no red spiders have been on the plant they are then
unprotected.

so

j

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 51

The pup are associated with the prepupex, but do not move about
unless disturbed. Not only are the prepupz more active than the
pupe, but they carry the antenne in front of the head and frequently
move them, while the pupez have the antenne laid back on the head
and motionless. Neither prepupx nor pup take any nourishment.

FOOD PLANTS.“

Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis feeds on a large number of ornamental
plants. In this country it has been recorded as feeding on the fol-
lowing: Liliaceous plants, azalia, Pellea hastata, aspidium, crotons,
dahlias, phlox, verbena, pink, ferns, vines, cherry laurel, lauristina,
palms, ficus, and fuchsia.

This year this thrips damaged the mango (Mangifera indica) at
Miami, Fla., and was recorded * from St. Vincent and the Barbados
Islands on cacao, kola, and the date palm. In Europe the following
list includes most of the ornamentals preyed upon by this thrips:
fErides, azalia, begonia, camarotes, catleyia, crinums, dendrobuim,
eucharis, ficus, grape, lelia, lefortia, marcintacia, pancratium, pha-
lenopsis, and viburnum.

LIFE HISTORY.

In order to study the life history of this insect, solitary females were
put on isolated plants that were previously uninfested and carefully
watched. An attempt to study isolated females, in small vials with
bits of leaves, failed of results and after 2 weeks was discontinued.

Life cycle—The life cycle, as detailed, is probably very near the
maximum length, as the studies were conducted with the temperature
of the house quite low, frequently falling to 50° F. at night. With these
conditions the length of the egg stage is about 8 days, but possibly in
a well-heated greenhouse this would be cut almost in half. The larvee
molt twice, the last time transforming to prepupx, and during the
cool weather require from 16 to 20 days to obtain full growth. The
prepupal period is of short duration, occupying only from 10 to 15
hours, while the pupal period is from 4 to 5 days. This gives a total
of 33 days as a maximum, and with favorable conditions this is
probably reduced to 20 days or less.

Longevity.—The greenhouse thrips, for such a minute insect, has
quite an extended duration of life and evidently feeds on the leaves
for a number of days before starting egg-deposition. In one case ob-

@ Since the above was submitted for publication some new food plants for this species
have been reported. Dr. E. A. Back found it feeding on maples at Orlando, Fla., and
on alligator pear (Persea gratissima). The fact that this insect feeds on the mango and
alligator pear serves to indicate that at some time in the future it may be of great im-
portance in Florida, as both are valuable fruits in that State.

5g MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

served, no larve hatched until 19 days after the female was placed on
a plant. This insect was about 1 day from the pupa when placed
on the plant. Another female was observed for 4 weeks, when she
disappeared, quite probably dying of old age. Probably this thrips
lays from 10 to 20 eggs during her lifetime. The writer observed 10
larve on 1 plant with a single adult, and possibly some were killed by
mites, ete.

Generations.—In greenhouses this insect is active during the entire
year, so that the number of generations is quite large. Taking the
maximum life cycle, this thrips might produce as many as 12 genera-
tions a year, provided that the species breeds continuously and con-
ditions are favorable to rapid growth.

NATURAL CONTROL.

Rain.—In its native home this thrips is probably kept under con-
trol by frequent rains. At Miami, Fla., where hundreds of crotons
are planted on hotel and private grounds, the author could find
no traces of injury and collected only 1 adult. Crotons that were
badly infested by this insect, kept in a greenhouse at Orlando, Fla.,
during the winter of 1907, were placed outside in June and by the end
of the summer it was almost impossible to find specimens of the thrips
on them. In times of drought this insect may increase in such num-
bers as to cause serious injury where it occurs in the open.

Natural enemies.—Frequently a mite is found on plants infested
with the greenhouse thrips. On a few occasions the author has found
thrips with one of these mites fastened to its dorsum. Specimens of
this predaceous enemy were determined by Mr. Nathan Banks as
Lelaps macropilis Bks.

ARTIFICIAL CONTROL.
EXPERIMENTS WITH REMEDIES.
FUMIGATION EXPERIMENTS.

A series of fumigation experiments was conducted against this
insect in its occurrence on croton at Orlando, Fla. All were made in
a small, fairly tight room, containing 660 cubic feet.

Kaperiment No. 1.—April 27, 1908, at 4 p. m., a plant was fumi-
gated all night with one sheet of nico fume. It was a cloudy, cool
day, just after a rain, and a good breeze was blowing. On opening
the room at 8.15 a. m. there was quite a pronounced odor of nicotine.

April 28, the paper below the plant was covered with this sect m
all stages, and many were also found on the plant.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 53

Result of the fumigation, counting the thrips on the plant:

| l
Adults. | Pup. | Larvae. | All forms.

|
<x |
| |
0. 8 ee RS 109 30 | 436 575
(NBs oS SAS SES ES a SE Cr 10 26 | 10 46
Sony bin Ve GY le 2) See ee eee 91.6 | 53 | 97.6 | 92+
|

May 2, the plant was in fine condition and uninjured. About 10
live adults remained. No live larvew were seen, but the leaves were
covered with hundreds of dead ones.

Experiment No. 2.—May 16, at 5.45 p. m., a plant was fumigated
overnight with one-half sheet of nico-fume paper. At 5.45 p.m. it
was dark from rain clouds.

May 17, the plant was uninjured. Red spiders and mealy bugs
were alive. Few thrips were on the plant.

| | |
Adults. | Pups». | Larve. | All forms.

LDIDTGL, 2 ade etic Seca ASS Seg Se Se ee 2 | 5 | 10 17

UDR S525. 03 Bs Se eS eae ee ed oe eee, el ee 0 | 13 | 0 13
| =

PEP RAO ee Serie se Mest J Gos ec coe wee on ese aeeee Beet ase 100 | 27+ | 100 562

Experiment No. 3.—April 28, at 5.15 p. m., fumigated a plant over-
night with one sheet of aphicide. The sky was cloudy and there was
a strong breeze. The plant had a few thrips on it.

April 29, when examined at 8.45 a. m., the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pup. | Larvee. | All forms.

| | fh jl |
OED 2 Jodedes neo ee ee ee ee ee ee eet 30 1 6 | 37
LLNS Se snescict ene SOE Sea oe Sei a eg a 3 0 | 2 5
oy LITE TE ee an ne oa 90 100 | 75 88+

May 2, the plant was in fine condition.

Experiment No. 4.—May 24, at 7 p. m., fumigated a plant with one
sheet of aphicide. There was a strong breeze.

May 25, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. Pupe. Larve. All forms.

ET EIS Sa Be om wea oeecte wees 3 10 | 67 80
TEE Rr a ee OL es coe ccm close 0 2 | 0 2

54 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Experiment No. 5.—May 22, at 6 p. m., fumigated a plant over-
night with one-half sheet of aphicide. There was a strong breeze.
May 23, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. Larvee. | All forms.

DCR ees os teics wie clue o'scisoeuintele = Soe e OEE E AE ae eet ase eee ceeer 6 15 31 52

JNU Nise OER RTE Fee ete NORE eens 2 21 | ll 34
Rer,cent killed’. s). jg--cieaack eee oe eee eee eee eee eee 75 412 73.8 60. 4+

Experiment No. 6.—-April 30, at 8.30 a. m., a plant was fumigated
with one sheet of aphis punk (=2 sheets of nico fume or aphicide) all
day; cloudy. Toward the end of the fumigation the punk began to
burn in strips, so it was not all consumed. It gave a very dense
smoke. The room was opened late in the afternoon.

May 1, the plants were uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larvee. | All forms.

DD e's 6 a a rie ea a ie pe A Ee ee al oe 2 7 0 3 10
PAI Gos vie oa oy eos Lie ce SA, 5d cae eae ae Eee oe Ra 14 11 | 18 43
IbCricentaKile dais ssa: eee eae Cae ee re ee oe see 334 0 | 14.2 | 18.8

May 2, live thrips were abundant on the plants.

Experiment No. 7.—April 30, fumigated with one-half sheet of aphis
punk (equal to 1 sheet of other kinds), but as it did not burn up, the
house was opened at 5.30 p.m. and a fresh piece put in. The fumi-
gation lasted all night. This piece also burned in strips and a third
was not consumed.

May 1, the plants were uninjured.

Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | Allforms.

Dead sics cs -Geaans teketencaceees Sep ee eas aceemionseee nee aeeeeeee 0 2 3 | 5
ANIV Goo ee ios teen ne eti ae ce eaters = pee oe eer oe ll 13 15 | 39
Pereent killed ’::2a.2% Sete eae te eee ae see seeee seme 0 134 163 11+

It seems that the thrips that drop to the ground have a better
chance to recover than those on the plant.

Experiment No. 8.—May 1, at 5.15 p. m., fumigated all night with
one-half sheet of aphis punk (fresh box from the factory). This was
entirely consumed and the room well filled with smoke.

May 2, the plants were uninjured; red spiders were alive.

Adults. | Pup. | Larvee. | All forms.

1B er 10 ae EE RR Reece eee ol ee 68 1 42 111
AUT V Ghee lei septs = ocr) Bie ule NRT Rae oi a Nera 4 24 | 1 29
Percent, killed tresses oe ee ee ea 94.4 5 | 97+ 86.4

————e Oe

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 55

Experiment No. 9.—May 26, at 7 p. m., fumigated with one-half

sheet of aphis punk (fresh box). Fumigation lasted all night. The
sky was cloudy.

May 27, the plant was uninjured. The condition of the thrips was

as follows:

; | Adults. sare pare AJl forms.

ER ee sk SR ren ce nica alcc Daciesccnccpmetionccsiese di 2, Z 11

ID ne od etth RAS Ree ree eee 0 7 0 | 7

i picilled Meee eee ee oe Bs Soja ssck acesodeckccumess 100 22-4 | 100 | 614

Experiment No. 10.—May 20, at 5.50 p. m., fumigated with nico-
fume liquid (1 tablespoonful=4 ounce + 1 ounce water, vaporized
over an alcohol lamp). The sky was partly cloudy. Sprinkled the
plant with water.

The vapor rose slowly until 6 p. m., when small flies on the window
began to drop. House flies were still flying around the room at 6.15
p- m., when the liquid was all evaporated.

May 21, the plant was uninjured. Red spiders were apparently
all alive. A very careful examination of the plant failed to show a
live thrips.

| Adults. | Pups. | Larve. | All forms.

LEED lal A NT Ie ee cr 74 12 | 8 94
CDW Scns toc dthe Geen Bees es ee ee ee ee eee rae 0 0. 0 0
| | 100 100

PCC MTN OU ah Sock oe na acck oececwme cee asieuaqeens | 100 100

Experiment No. 11.—May 27, at 3.50 p. m., fumigated with nico-
fume liquid (4 tablespoonful to 2 tablespoonfuls of water, vaporized).
Sky clouded, breeze strong.

May 28, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pup. |

| |

Larve. All forms.

ple oe hei, Ee RR ee SS en a ey 3 2 1 6
ne ea Se Bi eee See eee 0 2 0 2
ooo espe Tig La Cs Leal Se a 100 50 100 75

Experiment No. 12.—May 21, at 6 p. m., fumigated with rose-leaf
insecticide (29 c. c. + 25. c. water, vaporized over an alcohol lamp).
The sky was cloudy, with rain falling.

_ May 22, the plants were apparently uninjured. ‘Red spiders were
alive.

Adults. | Pups. | Larvee. | All forms.

4 13
0

56 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU-——IX.

Experiment No, 13.—May 18, fumigated with potassium cyanid
(0.00% gram per cubic foot. In 660 cubic feet used 4.4 grams potas-
sium cyanid, 7.92 c. c. sulphuric acid, and 15 c. c. water). Time, 5.30
p.m. Sky clouded; temperature 82° F; breeze strong; length of
fumigation, overnight.

May 19, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | All forms.
Dead s.55 5 54eOS. task ate ea eee eae eee eee eee 8 | 0 1 9
NI ce or RRR SS Ok AO EE ee ee Fy een Oe ee aoe 2 17 54 73
Per: cent Jelled sso2)38 ences mee tne teehee aces ceca ee eee 80 0 1.8 10.9

This strength was entirely too weak.

Experiment No. 14.—May 19 fumigated with potassium cyanid
(0.02 gram per cubic foot. In room used 13.2 grams potassium cya-
nid, 26.8 c. c. sulphuric acid, and 53.6 c. c. water). Time, 6 p. m
Length of fumigation, all night. Temperature, 78° F.; breeze strong.

May 20, the plants were uninjured. Flies and bees in the room
were all dead. Red spiders were alive. The thrips were all dead.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

(21s EON ea SPE UL ep Re eA ate Valent Wy sa ase | 3 10 | 28 | 41
ATT NE ne SOS SORE Coe ORV ea ete baa Ls SA | 0 0) 07 0

| ——————
Per cont killed so0e. aac oes he oe eee eo, emer | 100 | 100 | 100 100

May 25, the plant was uninjured.
SPRAYING EXPERIMENTS.

Experiment No. 15.—February 25; sprayed very thoroughly with
rose-leaf insecticide (1 part to 48 parts water) a large croton infested
with this thrips in all stages. Gave the upper and under sides a very
thorough spraying se as to cover entirely the surface and be sure to hit
nearly all of the thrips. The spraying was done in the afternoon
when the house became shaded from the sun. <A fine spray from a
small hand pump, common in greenhouses, was used.

February 26, examined the plant at 9.30 a. m. and find results as
follows:

| Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

I DGENG Sete cae g sae idocSocBeosuc spaneesustacisacesehacscedsese | 34 é

5 5
TG Seer! Joie lest, Salter Oe a aS aa re at ae | 1 2 | 2 5
| | ‘amas
i

May 12, 1908, this plant had then a number of young thrips upon it
-again and a lot of adults that had flown onto it.

i /!. oo

~

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 57

Experiment No. 16.—February 20, 1908, sprayed with cold water.
Took hose and washed off all of the plants in the greenhouse with cold
water. The next morning found the adults still common and also
many larve on the crotons, but many leaves badly infested before
washing were then entirely free from them. Probably the spraying
with cold water washed away and killed 40 to 50 per cent of young
thrips.

SUMMARY OF EXPERIMENTS.

The fumigation and spraying experiments in the control of the
greenhouse thrips may be summarized as follows:

Bip, of Amount per 660 | I é | tajang.to|-renteplae
oatm rm rat Amount per 66 er cen njury to red spider
Sect. Date. Method. Material. cubic feet. killed. plant. after oe
. ment, ~
oe son Apr. 27 | Fumigation...| Nico-fume paper.) 1 sheet.......... 92 None....| Alive.
2 ae Maye 16) 55.2. Otte sete ees Be oie Se EN % Sheetz= 2 22. BONG jae GdOne == Do.
5a ADEs 25) [aces do.. Aphicide.-.-..:- Lsheebs 22. i 2ee =: 88 dol. Do.
eee May 24]|..... CG Loe ae ee ad Fe G0 eee eon (6 open he ee ate | 97 os (nyse Do
ii ae May. 225)... (C{: ee Semanal ere Gore oe 4 ‘sheets. . 2.2.2 60.45) doe: . = Do.
Het. 3 ATE OO! | sees COsee el eatphisipink=..22|E Sheete..S.2252- 18:8 |}: .-do~.--. Do.
Ue oe to (oe (eee (0 1 eRe ec eee Qoteses.s2 ee al Sisheeb ls bos). TE eed On s-2 Do
tee Wie ila I a seas do.. SOE eo saelko ee GO: seb ste 86. 4 Goro: Do.
2 eee | May 26 ]...-- GOgesese ne olesnes (IE eee eee dor--= 61+ Go.--.: Do
A | May 20 do Nico-fume liquid. 4 ounc¢ 100 dol. ==: Do.
ee May (Qian -2 (0 a Ea Sen Vee Toney ee ts 4 OUNCE... - oso 75 SEG nee Do.
ee a itary. 20} o. 5. (6 (0 ae eal Sey leafinsecti- | 292 ¢..........- 100 2 emacs - Do.
| clde.
ise May: -18 j2.-2: do..-......| Potassium cya- : 0.00} gram per 10:9) 22 sdos- 22. Do.
} nid. cubic foot.
pers Mary A19 i |\5-5 = Ces eee eee GOr eee 0.02 gram per 100 Sores. = Do.
cubic foot.
acta = Feb. 25 | Spray...-...-- Rose-leafinsecti- | 1 part to 48 parts | 90 sceO 225-2 Do.
| cide. water.
eS ge RED: 2 20),|/5_24- Gore 635.2 | Water in hose..... Drenching..---- | 40-50 |...do..... Do.

REMEDIES RECOMMENDED.

For the treatment of this pest there are a number of good remedies.
The question as to the best method to employ depends upon the size
of the house infested and upon the experience of the person engaged
in treating the insect.

Fumigation with nicotine papers.—Any of the standard fumigating
papers will give good results against this pest if they are strictly freak
and kept tightly sealed. Bemiewtion should be done at night in a
moist atmosphere and the papers should be used at the rate of about
2 sheets for every 1,000 cubic feet of space. Early in the morning
the house should be opened and thoroughly aired.

Fumigation with nicotine liquid extracts.—Liquid extracts of nico-
tine offer one of the best methods of greenhouse fumigation and against
this pest are very successful. Those made up of 40 per cent nicotine
should be used at the rate of 1 ounce to every 1,000 cubic feet of space
and the weaker solutions at greater strengths. The preparation
should be evaporated over small lamps or stoves, and to prevent

58 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

scorching should be diluted with water, approximately two-thirds,
Fumigation should be carried on at night in a moist atmosphere, and
the house should remain closed all night.

Fumigation with hydrocyanic-acid gas.t~— When fumigating with
hydrocyanic-acid gas great care should be taken, as this gas is fatal to all
animal life. The work must be conducted at night and the plants
should have dry foliage. In treating this insect, use from 0.01 to 0.05
grams of potassium cyanid per cubic foot for from 2 hours to all night,
the strength and length of exposure varying according to the tight-
ness of the house and the kind of plants being treated, as there is
considerable difference between various plants as to their resisting
power to this gas. ,

Spraying with nicotine liquids.—-Nicotine extracts diluted with
water, if carefully applied to plants, will kill large numbers of the
greenhouse thrips, but the great objection is that many are not hit by
the spray, and therefore the plants become infested again in a short
time.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion.’—It is quite possible that kero-
sene emulsion spray will be effective against the greenhouse thrips
when used at the strength of 1 part of stock to 10 parts of water and
it costs considerably less and is more readily obtained than the nico-
tine preparations. It should be very carefully prepared and used
experimentally at first until the effect on the foliage of the different
plants is noted. Care should also be taken to prevent a quantity of
emulsion from collecting around the roots.

Water spray.—Frequent treatment with a stiff spray of water from
a garden hose will tend to keep this insect down, but unless there are
only a few plants it would be better to use one of the other remedies.

Any treatment for this insect should be repeated in from 7 to 10
days to destroy the young larve that have hatched from the eggs.
This should be sufficient, but it may be best to give a third treatment
in another week or two.

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. Boucus, P. F.¢c—Schidliche Garten Insecten, p. 42, 1833.
Original description of the species.

2. Hauipay, A. H.—Entomological Magazine, Vol. III, p. 443, 1836.

Description of the female as Heliothrips adonidum.

3. BurMEIsterR, H.—Handbuch der Entomologie, Vol. II, p. 412, 1838.

Description of adult female and habits of insect.

a¥For complete directions for the use of hydrocyanic-acid gas, see Cirs. 37 and 57,
Bur. Ent., U.S. Dept. Agr.

6 For the method of making emulsions, see Farmers’ Bulletin 127, pp. 22-23, or
Cir. 80, Bur. Ent.,-U. 8. Dept. Agr.

¢ Not seen by author.

pail
Le

4.
5.

6.

re

8.

9.

10.

ine

12.
13.
14.

15.

16.

ibfe

18.

19.
20.
21.

22.

23.

24.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 59

Bormerster, H.—Genera Insectorum, Fasc. 5, 1838.
Short description and excellent colored plate of the adult female.

Hauipay, A. H.—Walker, Homopt. Ins. Brit. Mus., p. 1102, Pl. VI, fig. 13, 1852.
Short description and figures of parts of head.
Heecer, E.—Fiinfte Fortsetzung Sitzungsb. Kais. Akad. Wiss., Wien, LX, p. 473,
Pl. XVII, 1852; separate, Wien, Gerold, VIII, pp. 3-4, 1852.
Description of egg and young stages and adult with account of habits.
Bremi-Wo tr, J. J.—Stett. Ent. Zeit., pp. 313-315, 1855.
Reprinted from Abh. Zurick Gartenbau-Geselle, 111, pp. 260-261. Short description and
account of habits. ‘
Low, F.—Verhandl. k. k. zool.-bot. Ges., Wien, XVII, p. 747, 1867.
Brief account of injury.
Borspuvat, J. A.—Essai sur Entomologie Horticole, pp. 233-235, fig. 32, 1867.
Description of adult, account of habits with long list of host plants, and figure of leaf injured by
this insect.

PackarD, A. S.—17th Ann. Rep., Mass. Bd. Agr., p. 263, pl. 1, fig. 2, 1870.

Short account of habits of this insect and a poor illustration of adult.

Cook, A. J.—3rd Ann. Rep. Pom. Soc. Mich., 1873-74, p. 501, 1874.
Brief notice in which this insect, mentioned as Thrips adonidum, is called a serious pest in
Michigan.
Packarp, A. S8.—Half Hours with Insects, pp. 118-119, fig. 86, 1881.

This account is nearly identical with No. 10.

PERGANDE, Tu.—Psyche, Vol. III, p. 381, 1882.

Brief note on occurrence out of doors, at Washington, D. C., Noy. 14.

Lerevre, E.—Entomologist, Vol. XV, p. 240, 1882.
Mentioned as injurious to greenhouse plants.
Lintner, J. A.—2nd Rep.-Ins. N. Y., pp. 29, 31, 38, 56, 1885.
There is some doubt as to whether this insect or a leaf-hopper is referred to in the first, second
and third references.

.—Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg., Vol. XXIX, p. Ixx, 1885.
Note on use of tobacco as a fumigant.
JorpAN, K.—Zeitschrift fiir Wiss. Zool., XLVII, pp. 541-620, Pls. XXXVI-
XXXVITII, 1888.

Anatomy and biology of Thysanoptera, with frequent mention of this insect.

,

Uzex, J.—Monographie der Ordnung Thysanoptera, pp. 168-170, Pl. VI, figs. 90-
92, 1895.

Description of adult and figures of head, antenna, and wing.

PERGANDE, Tu.—Insect Life, Vol. VII, p. 390, 1895.
Observations on this and other thrips.

Frank, A.—Die tierparasitiren Krankheiten der Pflanzen, p. 134, 1896.
Short account of habits and advice as to remedies.

Davis, G. C.—Special Bull. No. 2, Mich. Agr. Exp. Sta., p. 13, 1896.
Brief note on occurrence in Michigan.
Burra, P.—Estratto dalla Rivista di Patologia Vegetale, VII, Nos. 1-4, pp. 94-
108; continued, VII, Nos. 5-8, pp. 129-135, 136-142, 1898.
Study of the external and internal anatomy of the species. Illustrated by 5 plates.

Tire, R.—Die Geradfliigler Mitteleuropas, p. 290, 1901.
Description of female and poor figure in colors.

CuirrenvDEN, F. H.—Weekly Florists’ Review, April 17, p. 739, 1902.
Short popular article on thrips in greenhouses.

Le “i ce i yee ye bey

60 is ORK | DAU

25. Hinps, W. E.—Proc. U. 8. Nat. Mus., vol. 26, p. 168, 19083. Iss1
No. 1318, 1902. eminpers

Description of adult and account of habits as far as known.

26. Moutton, Dupiey.—Tech. Ser. 12, Part III, Bur. Ent., Ol 8. D
pp. 43; 51-52, 1907.

Brief notes on characters and habits. Destructive to laurestinas out of ee

27. FRANKLIN, H. J.-—Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., Vol. XXXII, p. 719, 1908.

Notes on occurrence out of doors in the Barbados.

@)

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
-_- BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 64, Part VII.
; L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

~NEW BREEDING RECORDS OP THE
| COPPEE-BEAN WEEVIL.

BY

E. §. TUCKER,
Special Field Agent.

Issuep Avcust 5, 1909.

Y
WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 207408
1909.

pave CTT pn
‘, | | his oN }
UREUN UAV OIIAV)

7 ~- i
CONTENTS. _-

: Page.
roc uction a ee toe eR ae po oe ee Se tah ce Sel See 61
ure of injury to corn...... Bee Re ea ee AER teaw'e S -2 Seats es -ee 61
PmbinCaHIRLORY INGORE. cere a Pete nos! - Soe eee Hs oe Soe hes oes 63
peucesmreniNADerrieds MAASICES. 0222s o ae es on Se ae ee 63
pmbbMpe HOES ea terrae eae ope re SOA See Bee lal ei ha dewre Spalina cele are 64

IELUSTRATIONS:
b: PLATE.

4 Page.

Pare III. Work of the coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus) in cornstalks. 62

pd : TEXT FIGURE.

Fie. 18. Coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus): Larva, adult, pupa ...... 62

U.S. D.A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VII. Issued August 5, 1909.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL.
(Arecerus fasciculatus De Geer.)

By E. S. Tucker,
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

While making field observations upon the cotton boll weevil during
the past season (1908), a large plantation situated 6 miles south of Alex-
andria, La., was visited on September 18 and again on December 4.
On my first visit at this place the overseer directed my attention
to the work of strange weevils occurring in dried cornstalks in fields
adjacent to cotten. Upon examination the larval and pupal stages
and sometimes a few adults of the insects were found in the pith, at
or close to the joints (Pl. III). These specimens were identified as
the coffee-bean weevil (Arexcerus fasciculatus De Geer) (fig. 18), and
the selection of cornstalks for breeding purposes places the species
on record as a new enemy to be encountered in cornfields.

NATURE OF INJURY TO CORN.

‘According to the statements of the overseer, the working of these
weevils in cornstalks during the past year was more noticeable
than in the preceding season, when he first detected the insects at
work. He claimed that the attacks began in green stalks before the
corn matured and thus caused stunted ears. Being a close observer,
he first noticed their attacks during the last week of August, while the
stalks were still fresh and sappy, although the leaves had begun to
dry. These facts prove beyond question that the larvee were hatched
within living tissues of the plants. Furthermore, he expressed a
firm belief that the holes made by these insects for emergence from
the stalks afterwards offer a retreat for cotton boll weevils, which
may enter and hibernate in the pith. His opinion in this respect
was supported by the claim that he had found boll weevils in such
places at the time the land was being prepared for spring planting.

61

62 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

In the course of such work many old cornstalks were dragged out of
the dirt that had been thrown over them by means of a ‘‘middle-
buster” plow used for breaking the ground durmg November and
December; and in two or three instances, which he remembered as
having occurred in February, he found stalks with boll weevils
secreted in the cavities evidently formed by the stalk pests.

At the time of my first examination the emergence holes and other
signs of work by Arzcerus fasciculatus were not visible unless the
leaves were stripped from the stalks as they stood in the fields.
Centers of infestation were then located in different parts of the
fields by breaking open a number of stalks to ascertain the extent of
depredations. As most of the ears had been gathered, inspection of
the greater part of the fields was freely made and infested sections of
the stalks were collected. The damaged stalks broke easily at the
joints where larve had worked, and usually but one injured place
was found on a stalk. All attaeks by the weevils at this time were

Fia. 18.--Coffee-bean weevil (Arzxcerus fasciculatus): a, Larva; b, adult or beetle; c, pupa. Greatly
enlarged. (From Chittenden.)

confined to the upper joints. These damaged joints varied in thick-
ness from a little more than an inch to slightly less than one-half
inch. The extra thick and hard structure of the lower joints was then
thought to present unsuitable conditions for the breeding of the
weevils, at least where the pith incompletely filled the stem. Further
developments which were noted on my second examination showed,
however, that the insects had bred extensively and worked down-
ward into the lowest joints, their tunnels running through the pith
from one joint to another. Since all stages were found again, the
prospect for continual breeding of the weevils, which perhaps depends
upon mild weather, seemed to be assured as long as the stalks were
not destroyed. As previously observed, the effects of their work
were most noticeable at the joints. The common occurrence of
damaged stalks, which were readily detected on account of the emer-
gence holes being exposed to view by reason of the partial loss of the
leaves, indicated that the infestation was widespread.

Bul. 64, Part Vil, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE III.

WORK OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL (ARAECERUS FASCICULATUS) IN CORNSTALKS.
(ORIGINAL. )

NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL. . 63

NOTES ON LIFE HISTORY IN CORN.

Judging from the appearance of damaged stalks when split open,
the larve evidently begin work at a joint and form wide cavities,
mainly in a crosswise direction, as they progress into the pith. All
examples of their injuries showed that irregular portions of the pithy
substance, excepting most of the fibers, had been reduced to a dis-
colored, powdery condition, which was usually more pronounced
above the joint than below it. The greater part of the time neces-
sary for the growth of the grubs is probably spent in the exca-
vation of these spaces to satisfy their demands upon the pith as
a food supply. In preparation for the pupal stage the grown or
nearly grown larvee manifest a tendency to burrow into fresh pith
some distance from the area of early operations. A considerable
proportion of them does this; though few grubs proceed farther than
2 inches upward or downward. ‘These burrows run in somewhat
deflective courses, but when finished always terminate just under
the hard surface of the stem and afford a convenient position at the
far end for each insect upon attaining maturity to gnaw its way out,
as was proved in many cases by an emergence hole being already
cut to afford means of escape to the tenant. Nearly every closed
burrow contained either a grown larva, a pupa, or an adult. These
stages commonly occurred also in or close to the large primary
cavities, indicating that not all the larve undertake special meas-
ures for pupation away from their original place of development,
though all apparently provide for facility of emergence as adults, and
the greater number perhaps complete their transformations in the
same relative position. In fact, the greater number of openings ap-
pearing through the surface immediately surrounding the worst
damaged places close to the joints shows that emergence is most
frequently effected there.

OCCURRENCE IN CHINABERRIES; PARASITES.

The further records on the habits of Arzcerus fasciculatus are
obtained from the notes on file at the laboratory of the Bureau of
Entomology at Dallas, Tex., all of which pertain to the breeding of
the species in berries of the chinaberry tree ( Melia azedarach). Sev-
eral Jarvee and pup and one adult were found in the pulp of old
chinaberries collected at Victoria, Tex., April 24, 1907, by Mr. R. A.
Cushman. From other collections of similarly infested berries, made
at the same place on May 12, by Mr. A. C. Morgan, adult weevils
first emerged seven days later, and on the 27th and 28th of the same
month the first rearings of parasites were recorded. These para-
sites represented a species which was later described by Mr. J. C.
Crawford as Cerambycobius cushmani, and further developments not
only proved it to be the most important enemy of Arecerus fascicu-

64 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

latus, but highly inimical to the cotton boll weevil. Numbers of
these parasites, together with Hurytoma tylodermatis Ashm., which
also attacks the boll weevil, matured during the following June and
July from another lot of old berries infested by the immature stages
of Arexcerus fasciculatus, the material having been collected by Mr.
Cushman on June 11. Other species of parasites were reared from
these lots, but so far remain undetermined. The latest date recorded
for the emergence of weevils in confinement was July 11, but under
natural conditions these insects probably breed continuously through-
owt the season in berries which are apt to be hanging on trees or
falling from them at all times of the year.

During the past year opportunities permitted me to make personal
observations upon the work of these weevils in chinaberries. While
at San Augustine, Tex., on March 22, my attention was drawn to an
infestation occurring in both fallen and hanging berries. Fallen ber-
ries in a soft, shriveled, or rotting condition frequently contained
well advanced larval stages. Seldom were more than one or two
erubs found in a berry. The larve in hanging berries were gener-
ally younger. Some of the hanging berries contained very small
erubs, evidently newly hatched, that had scarcely begun working in
the firm pulp. The falling of infested berries seemed to be induced
by the softened condition resulting from the more advanced work of
the larve, and the pupal stage must necessarily be passed in fallen
berries. Collections of these berries were placed in breeding boxes,

and adult weevils emerged from April 16 until June 16, but no para-

sites appeared, probably because of the earliness of the collection.
On March 25, at Longview, Tex., the species was again taken by me,
but only fallen berries were examined. A live adult was removed
from one berry.

At Monroe, La., on the 21st of the same month, Mr. R. A. Cushman
made an interesting find in regard to a new enemy of the coffee-bean
weevil. In a number of infested berries one weevil larva was found
to be attacked by a new species of mite belonging to the genus
Pediculoides. This mite is also known as an enemy of boll weevil
larvee. |

HABITS IN GENERAL.

Previously published records of Arecerus fasciculatus show it to be
a common insect in warm climates, and that it has no particular
food preferences. It is as likely to be found breeding in beans or
any stored dry vegetable products, including dried fruits, as in dry

pithy stalks, and is commonly found breeding as a scavenger in dry _

decayed cotton bolls. In common with most other weevils, the
adults feign death for a short time when disturbed, and then suddenly
become active and seek to escape.

O

Oo, DEPAKIMENT OF AGRICULTURE;

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 64, Part VIII.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY:
A NEW ENEMY OF THE FLORIDA ORANGE.

BY

EK. A. BACK, Pu. D.,

Agent and Expert.

Issu—ep May 7, 1910.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
PSL.

BUREAU OF ENTO MOLOG Y.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
C. L. Martart, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R.S. Currron, Executive Assistant.
Cuas. J. Gruss, Chief Clerk.

. H. CuitrenDeEn, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
. D. Hopkins, in charge of forest insect investigations.
W. D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.
. M. WesstTER, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.
. L. QUAINTANCE, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.
. F, Putuuies, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Roaerrs, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.

Rouia P. Currin, in charge of editorial work.

Mase Cotcorp, librarian.

II

CON PANES

Page.
MIEN ain Sete St = 5 ete A Se eS a DE ome Se eee me kee ee 65
Bemis nec extent Of infestations. -..- ls... dsasse.- 222 et le tee ees te cece sees 65.
0 LE ESTAS AS SIRS Soaps op rte ge sae ag ae a 66.
(es CEN COPE I ete 68
SMR Ere eee a pe I ae ci Scheie aio Sak maa e 2 2 ie. Se 70
(SED PQS SBS So Se ee ae ee 70
Natural enemies. ......-- See ae ee eat ett Seelac ls Coe th een ae es 70
8 RED 25 See ae re eee Ts ea fi
PEE Wise RATIO Ns:
PLATE.

Puate IV. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance) on orange.

Fig. 1.—Moderate infestation of leaf showing many specimens in

larval instars. Fig. 2—Eggs on tender leaf. Fig. 3—Heavy

infestation of leaf, showing globules of honeydew embedded in
woolly secretions overgrown by fungi..........---.-.----------- 68

TEXT FIGURES.

Fig. 19. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi): Eggs, female ovipositing. - - 67

20. The woolly white-fly: Larva, first instar........- Se oe 68
21. The woolly white-fly: Details of larva of sec dond inate oan Od at Ce 69
22. The woolly white-fly: Pupa-case and details....................----- 7

ul

* nN ay rid ee we BY wit = Se iat

nS a

vo lofted aa pd ea ae ie palelete Be

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VIII. Issued May 7, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY: A NEW ENEMY OF THE FLORIDA
ORANGE.

(Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance. )

By E. A. Back, Ph. D.
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

The attention of entomologists is called, for the first time, to the
discovery in this country of a new species of Aleyrodes which attacks
citrus trees. In view of the widespread havoc played among the
orange groves of Florida by the citrus white-fly (Aleyrodes citri Riley
and Howard) and the spotted-wing white-fly (Aleyrodes nubifera
Berger), the appearance among the orange trees at Tampa of another
aleyrodid which has already demonstrated itself to be of economic
importance is of interest, if not, indeed, a subject for considerable
concern.

During a recent examination of orange trees along several of the
streets in the business section of Tampa in connection with govern-
ment white-fly investigations that are being carried on in Florida by
the Bureau of Entomology, the attention of the writer was attracted
to dense white and grayish woolly secretions on the under surface of
many leaves. At first this was supposed to be a heavy infestation of
the rather scarce Paraleyrodes persex Quaintance, but on closer exami-
nation proved to be Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance, up to the present
time known only to infest orange trees on several of the West Indian
islands, especially Cuba.

INJURY AND EXTENT OF INFESTATION.

At present very little is known of the capacity for injury possessed
by this aleyrodid. Mr. C. L. Marlatt, Assistant Chief of the Bureau
of Entomology, found it quite abundant, locally, on several of the
old orange trees at Artimisa, Cuba, but at that time (1905) noted

65

66 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

that it had spread but slightly into the surrounding younger citrus
groves. When describing it for the first time Prof. A. L. Quaintance @
stated that, judging from its abundance on leaves sent to the Bureau
of Entomology from Cuba, it was a very serious pest of the Cuban
orange, possibly rivaling the well-known citrus white-fly in Florida.
Whatever damage it is causing in Cuba, where it may be partially
held in check by parasites and predaceous enemies, it has shown itself
capable of rapid multiplication and spread in its new home at Tampa.
Notwithstanding the fact that it has not been observed in Florida
before, although many trees now heavily infested have been under
casual observation during 1907 and 1908, it has become well estab-
lished over a very large portion of the city, spreading northward
beyond Michigan avenue and eastward about 2 miles, into Ybor City.
Orange groves in the more elevated portions of the city are thoroughly
infested, hence it is safe to presume that the pest is well established
in the western section of the city.

From the present infestation it appears that the insect first secured
a foothold along the water front, and this points to its possible impor-
tation from Cuba. In this section neglected worthless trees along
the streets and in dooryards are in many cases heavily infested. While
it appears to be rivaling the citrus white-fly in the extent of its attack
on some trees, it is improbable that it is capable of causing such
widespread disaster; nevertheless, if it becomes abundant in a grove,
it will prove a source of no little aggravation and discomfort to those
working in the trees because of the large and extremely viscid drops
of honeydew which collect over the bodies of the insects, and later
become embedded in the copious waxen secretions.

LIFE HISTORY.

Nothing has been published regarding the life history of this aleyro-
did aside from the statement made by Professor Quaintance (1. c.)
that the eggs lie prostrate on the leaf, and are arranged, more or less,
in circles or curves. When discovered in Tampa by the writer on
November 14, 1909, adults were abundant and depositing eggs upon
both new and old growth, showing the usual preference for the for-
mer, and larve in all stages, as well as pupx, were numerous. Later,
on December 15, Mr. S. S. Crossman found adults abundant, and
examination of material at this time showed that pupe were still
maturing. The last brood of adults of this species is, therefore, on
wing later in the year than that of either the citrus or spotted-wing
white-fly. Adults were noted by the writer on a visit to Tampa dur-
ing late January.

2U.S. Dept. Agr., Bur. Ent., Tech. Ser. 12, Pt. V, pp. 91-92, 1907. The more impor-
tant Aleyrodide infesting economic plants, with description of a new species infesting
the orange.

“T=

Bul. 64, Part Vill, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE IV.

THE WOOLLY WHITE FLY (ALEYRODES HOWARD!) ON ORANGE.

Fig. 1.—Moderate infestation of leaf, showing many specimens in larval instars. Fig. 2.—Eggs on

>
tender leaf. Fig. 3.—Heavy infestation of leaf, showing globules of honeydew embedded in w
secretions overgrown by fungi. (Original.)

(

Olly

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY. 67

Unless molested or crowded each female deposits her eggs in a com-
plete circle (PI. IV, fig. 2), she being always on the inside (fig. 19, ¢).
This arrangement she effects by using her mouth parts as a pivot
upon which to rotate her body. Since often as many as 3 or
4 rows of eggs are present in one circle, it is evident that the female
describes several circles while ovipositing before seeking a new place.
Although as few as 27 eggs have been counted in a single circle and
as many as 130 in a circle of 4 rows, it is probable that the larger
number does not indicate the maximum egg-laying capacity, which,
in the case of A. citri, has been found to be 222.

The eggs are whitish when deposited but soon turn to a dark-brown
or blackish color and become partially covered by waxen secretions
rubbed from the bodies of the adults. They are curved, the concave
side being upward (fig. 19, a, 6), and in hatching the membranes
rupture along the median distal half of the upper surface and do not
spring back into place after
the larva has escaped.

The larva after hatching
crawls about before settling.
It is yellowish, elliptical, with
9 pairs of marginal spines and
4 pairs of short, stout, dorsal
spines. Soon after ceasing
to crawl, it develops a short,
inconspicuous, marginal wax
fringe similar to that of the ae oe

FiG. 19.—The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi): a,

first instar of A. nubifera (fig. Egg, showing attachment to leaf; b, eggshell, viewed

20) : In the second instar from above; c,female depositing eggs in a circle. c, Much
enlarged; a,b, highly magnified. (Original.)

the marginal bristles are lost
except one anterior and two posterior pairs, and the legs become
unfit for locomotion as is the case with other aleyrodids. During
this instar there develop 6 white abdominal cross-bands and a
distinct, white, marginal fringe of wax, varying in width with age,
often becoming 0.3 mm. wide; aside from these secretions, each of
the dorsal spines secretes a long, outstanding waxen rod, of varying
length, these rods being at all times characteristic of this instar
(see fig. 21). After passing into the third instar the larva, except in
point of size, assumes the appearance of the pupa; the marginal
fringe and abdominal secretions found in the preceding instar remain
practically the same, but these are largely or wholly concealed by
the long, white, curling, and variously matted secretions which arise
from along, but not on, the margin of the insect, giving to a leaf
infested with this species a woolly appearance (PI. IV, fig. 1) which,
when infestation is heavy, entirely conceals the insect beneath. These
threadlike secretions are often twice as long as the insect itself. At

68 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

emergence the pupa case splits at the anterior end, down both the
dorsal and ventral sides along the median line, on the dorsal side
splitting back to the first abdominal segment. The empty pupa
case 1s white and delicate. The adult insect of either sex is lemon-
yellow, with pure-white wings, without darker markings; the ground
color of the body being partially obscured by loose particles of waxen
secretions. The adult resembles closely A. citri, the citrus white-fly,
but carries its wings farther away from the body, thus leaving more
of the abdomen exposed.

A very characteristic feature of
this species, as compared with
any of the Florida Aleyrodide now
known to the writer, is the globule
of honeydew which collects over
the vasiform orifice, often becoming
so large as to conceal the posterior
half of the body, and resembling
somewhat the secretions of the
persimmon Psylla. These globules
are extremely viscid and make the
handling of leaves infested with this
aleyrodid very disagreeable. They
collect in large numbers in_ the
waxen secretions on heavily infested
leaves (Pl. IV, fig. 3) and both
they and the secretions become
grayish and dust-laden with age.
The globules frequently become
overgrown by a rank growth of
Fig. 20.—The woolly white-fly: Larva of first greenish-brown fungus : esembling

instar, dorsal view, showing spines and the hyperparasitic species attacking
uaa fringe. Tighly magnified. the yellow white-fly fungus, Ascher-
sonia flavecitrina.

DESCRIPTION.

A detailed description of Aleyrodes howardi follows ¢:

The egg.—Length, 0.2 mm. to 0.19 mm.; width, 0.1 mm. to 0.088 mm. Uniformly
brownish in color, smooth, without reticulations or waxy secretions; curved, lying
prostrate on leaf, with convex side approximating latter, attached by short stalk
arising from convex surface about one-fourth distance from base to tip of egg. Eggs
deposited more or less in complete circles; spaces between eggs often filled with
waxy secretions rubbed from body of adults. (See fig. 19.)

«The original description of the pupa by Professor Quaintance has been used but
amplified by the writer.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY. 69

The larva, first instar.—Size about 0.26 mm. by 0.13 mm. ; elliptical, yellowish-white,
with 9 pairs of short marginal bristles, arranged as in figure 20, the two posterior pairs
longest, the relative lengths being as follows:

TPE Se oka ae re ar es = ee eo 400 Olevia. O19
PROCS TET EL KEN (e012 a ee Zie2.0 6 4° 5 5 4° 8) 8

After settling, an inconspicuous, transparent, marginal wax fringe develops, but
little exceeding in width the length of the marginal spines. Eyes reddish-brown, usual.
Dorsum with 4 pairs of short stout spines; 1 pair cephalad and mesad of eyes, 1 pair
at vasiform orifice, and 2 pairs on central region between the fifth and sixth, and sixth
and seventh pairs of marginal spines, respectively. Legs and antenne well devel-
oped, usual; vasiform orifice similar in shape to that of pupa, but without apparent
strong setz.

The larva, second instar.—Size, about 0.38 mm. by 0.22 mm. All marginal bristles
lost except 2 pairs of minute bristles, one at anterior, the other at posterior end of body.
Four pairs of bristles on dorsum located as in first instar, but different in that when
wax secretions are removed, the first 3 anterior
pairs are stout spindle-shaped (fig. 21, a), the
fourth pair at vasiform orifice, long and slender, as
in pupal stage: a fifth dorsal pair at caudal end of
body but not on margin, similar to those in pupal
stage. Color, brownish or black; margin with
narrow white wax fringe, equaling at times
0.3 mm. Instar conspicuous because of long
single, stout, outstanding waxen rods secreted
by each of the spindle-shaped dorsal spines,
and 6 abdominal cross bands of white waxen
secretions. Insects well advanced in this instar,
after the dorsal waxen rods have developed, pre-
sent a profile similar to that shown in figure 21,

at b. a
The larva, third instar.—Size, about 0.58 mm. 4

by 0.38 mm. Except in point of size, this re-

sembles the pupal instar in all respects. The :

spindle-shaped spines of the previous instar are Fig. 21.—The woolly white-fly, second

replaced by ordinary strong bristles. larval instar. a, Spindle-shaped spine; b,
The pupa.—Size, about 0.9 by 0.55 mm., sub- diagrammatic profile, showing character-

Seno : é A istic wax secretions. Highly magnified.
elliptical in shape. Many specimens with more (Original.)

or less evident indentures on cephalo-lateral

margin of case, with cephalic end obtusely pointed. Color, on leaf, under hand
lens, with secretions removed, yellowish-brown varying to blackish; under transmitted
light, yellowish to brownish-yellow. There is a distinct marginal rim all around,
with wax tubes distinct, the incisions acute and tubes rounded distally. From
margin of case all around arises a short rim of wax, composed of individual wax-
threads, serrated on margin as seen under a high-power microscope. Pupa usually
quite covered by a very copious secretion of whitish, curling wax-rods which is
very conspicuous in badly infested leaves, quite hiding the insects beneath (Plate LV,
fig. 3); these waxen filaments often much greater in length than the insect’s body,
spreading outward when insects are not crowded, but upward when crowded; and
arising from along the outer portion of the case, but not on the margin itself from
which the above-mentioned distinct waxen fringe arises. Dorsum of pupe with
many wax-secreting pores; the secretions very short, irregular upon the cephalothoracic
region. and on the abdominal portion arranged in cross bands on each segment, being

70 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

most dense on the middle of the segments. Denuded of secretions, the pupa case
is seen to be at first almost flat, but later becoming rather convex as the insect
develops, with segments distinct.

Dorsum with pair (1) of strong setze on first abdominal segment, a pair (2) at vasi-
form orifice, and a pair (3) at, but not on, caudal margin extending some distance
beyond margin of case. There is also a pair of minute marginal spines (a) at the
anterior end, and another (b) at the posterior end of body. The relative lengths of
these spines are as follows:

DEC h one eA Eee ENS S Sensi ere eS cde Pfc eee ae ea Airecic imesh Re lo.
Relative lengths= <2 222. ce se oe 14. 16) LOS ae

There is also a pair of small bristles on the venter beneath the vasiform orifice.
Vasiform orifice relatively small, subcordate, the rim dark brown, from 6 to 8 strong
sete or spines arising from caudal
margin; operculum largely filling ori-
fice, the distal margin with two faint
notches; lingula not distinguishable.
(See fig. 22.)

The adult.—Usual, lemon - yellow,
after emergence becoming coated with
white waxen secretions; wings pure
white, without darker markings, held
along sides of abdomen, but not
meeting over the dorsum. A con-
siderable amount of flocculent white
wax is secreted, but not as copious
a supply as is secreted by the adult
of P. persex. In female: Length of
body, 0.42 to 0.47 mm.; length of fore
wing, 1.1 mm.; width of fore wing,
Fig. 22.—The woolly white-fly: Pupa case and details. 0.36 mm.; length of antenna, 0.31

Greatly enlarged. (From Quaintance. ) mm.; length of hind tibia, 0.035

mm.; relative lengths of antennal segments as follows:

Segment. sachs seme sea ee 83 4.5 6. he Sore:
Relative lengths...--..2---.-- 15 8-5 10s 385 2b 2b oe Ors

FOOD PLANTS.

The woolly white-fly infests the various species of citrus, the
cuava, and the mango. While found on the mango at Tampa by
the writer, its presence on this plant is probably the result of acci-
dent. Mr. W. L. Tower is authority for its occurrence on guava in

Porto Rico.
DISTRIBUTION.

This species occurs on several islands of the West Indies, but
more especially in Cuba. It is now established at Tampa, Fla.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

While no predaceous insects are known to attack this aleyrodid,
Cook and Horn have reported it parasitized by the “red fungus,”

aCook, M. T., and Horne, W. T., Cuban Exp. Sta. Bul. 9, p. 31, 1908.

_

THE WOOLLY .WHITE-FLY. 71

Aschersonia aleyrodis, in Cuba, and Mr. W. L. Tower, entomologist of
the Porto Rican Experiment Station, reports that in Porto Rico it
is held in check by fungi (undetermined).

REMEDIES.

So far as known to the writer no remedial measures have been
adopted against this pest up to the present time. Its recent dis-
covery has not made it possible for experiments leading to its con-
trol to be concluded although such experiments are now in progress.
From present indications it seems probable that this white-fly will
be more easily controlled by fumigation than by spraying, inasmuch
as when nearly mature it is very well protected from spray liquids
by the secretions mentioned above. Present indications are that
during the early larval instars it is as well controlled by spraying
as are the citrus and the spotted-wing white-flies, with which it is
found associated.

O

a

= gat Ve Lara Hie
Pace Me Sas dc ee fe

| ’ na ES Gh
Be ihe Ohl ee ae sh Et ane
i a ro
4 Poe SH te EE
ney}
iar ry EY AGN. He, ne bad
" ’ oa ‘ : ae eee ye eae ia
: inttaar intra ee Berea Got se, Be
' = ;
” 1s i c bos Bae tr 4, yes wow cP
3 83 Pie” ey Teabe eee San Shee Sp SP aoe nd
" F ad 1¢ lye t ?
* jane * ine tena 4 ‘ bit ‘ a
4 es
a \ x eee e Vs Le - * 6 a, > eat
cw
*
r vi has au ef ete
: iy y ~"
wl ve, of t! Pri Lh Pur is Peo
1 5
, .
~ v "
ee
7 +
j
r
. i "
‘
; ;
i
:
‘
A pat
f
. $
7 ’ ‘
aie | ¥
)
x nm
’ t
? ;
ot 4 .
mu a ? ae, nig
r ’
~ ieott ty i an
; » ar
- the "
ma * i , v a ‘
‘ t 4, sae 7
25 arn te ls Beets,
i , y y see
y ; - o f wide
og A pe Wy . aed a a ;
« , ‘f by
a ei cre’ | ie wae Be
; i
a) it ia : A
Fe
hey

wt

nen
7 U. 8. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 64, Part IX.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT.

BY
H. O. MARSH,
Agent and Expert.

IssuED OcTroBER 17, 1910.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1O.0:.

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

C. L. Maruarr, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.

R. S. Currton, Executive Assistant.
W. F. Taster, Chief Clerk.

leh

D. Hopxins, in charge of forest insect investigations.

D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations,
M. Wesster, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.
A. L. Quarytance, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.
E. F. Purures, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Roaers, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.
Rotia P. Currie, in charge of editorial work

MaBEL UCotcorD, librarian.

F,
A.
W.
F.

Il

CHITTENDEN, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.

CONTENTS:

ooo in SL Ae TS i eR ee Oe 73
wifi SDA Oe OE CET ES 73
ments with potassium cyanid as a remedy.......-.------------------ 74
. Il
:

U.S. D.A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part IX. Issued October 17, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT.

(Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel.)

By H. O. Mars,
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

A medium-sized ant, known scientifically as Formica cinereorufi-
barbis Forel, is one of the most common species occurring in the vicin-
ity of Rocky Ford, Colo. The nests which it constructs along the
fences and irrigation ditches are mounded up very little or not at all,
but often cover a considerable area. Sometimes these nests are 3 or
4 feet in length by 2 or 3 feet in width, and they always have several
openings.

During the growing season this species of ant is always to be
found in attendance on various species of aphides or plant lice.
During the summer of 1909 it was most commonly found together
with the melon aphis (Aphis gossypii Glov.) on cucurbits, and with
Chaitophorus populicola Thos. on cottonwood. The ants were also
observed attending a species of Membracide on alfalfa, and late in
the season after the leaves had fallen great numbers were found
clustered and feeding upon crushed overripe cantaloupes, sometimes
out in the field 25 yards from any ant nests.

As the ants were almost invariably to be found on aphis-infested
cantaloupe vines, many of the growers are of the opinion that they
are responsible, in part at least, for the spread of the aphides from
one vine to another. There is also a rather general idea that the
ants take the aphides into their nests in the fall, protect them through-
out the winter, and then bring them out in the spring and put them
upon the plants.

INJURIOUS HABITS.

There appears to be but little foundation for believing that the
ants harbor the melon aphis during the winter, and after careful
watching the writer has never seen any aphides being carried into the

58603°—Bull. 64, pt. 9—J0 73

74 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK. OF BUREAU-—IX.

nests. However, these ants do protect the aphides from their natural
enemies on the growing plants, and it is a common thing to see the
ants busily engaged in killmg and carrying off the syrphid larve,
which were doing good.work in destroying the “lice.” They were
also repeatedly observed carrying away adults of the convergent lady-
bird (Hippodamia convergens Guer.), the nabid bug Reduviolus ferus
L., and a species of Chrysopa. The ladybird larve apparently were
not molested, while the beneficial syrphid larve were objects of special
attack, and it was not unusual to see as many as ten or twelve larvee
being carried away from a single vine at a time. Wherever the ants
were abundant the syrphid larve were noticeably reduced in number,
and the aphides thus had a better chance of increasing. The ants
appear to use the syrphid larve as food, as they were observed carry-
ing them into their nests, which, in several cases, were 12 or 15 feet
from the vines infested by the aphides.

EXPERIMENTS WITH POTASSIUM CYANID AS A REMEDY.

As frequent inquiries were made by the melon growers concerning
possible remedies for use against the ants it was decided to conduct
a series of experiments. Owing to the large number of nests which
occur along practically every fence and ditch, and to the large size
of the nests, and particularly to the fact that each nest has several
openings, it was obvious that carbon bisulphid would be too expen-
sive for practical use with this species, and it was decided to make
the experiments with various solutions of potassium cyanid. The
object of these experiments was to determine if repeated applications
would materially reduce the number of the ants and, if the ants were
thus reduced, what effect it would have on the melon-aphis problem.

In making these experiments a strip about 80 yards in length
was selected along a fence at the edge of a cantaloupe field. This strip.
was bordered along one side by a common road or highway and
occupied along the center by a row of elm trees which were too
small to cause any shade worth mentioning, as none of them was over
4 inches in diameter at the base. There were at least twenty-five
distinct nests in this strip, and the ants occurred by thousands.
Cantaloupes had been planted in the field along this strip for several
successive years, and each year the first few rows nearest the fence
were infested by melon ‘“‘lice,’’ while the vines which were beyond
the convenient range of the ants were not infested, or at least not
until later in the season. The owner of the cantaloupes was firmly
convinced that the ants were responsible for the infestation of the
first few rows and welcomed any attempt to destroy them.

In order to determine the cheapest and most practical solution the
following preliminary tests were made:

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT. 75

Expervment No. 1.—One-half ounce of 98 per cent cyanid of potash
dissolved in 1 gallon of water was used. On August 31,1909,at 5 p.m.,
2 gallons of this solution were applied to a nest 24 feet in length by
2feetin width. The entire outer surface of the nest was soaked and a
considerable quantity was poured directly into the openings. Ants
which were hit died almost at once and others which returned from
the field and ran over the wet surface died within a few seconds.
When the nest was examined an hour later the surface was well
covered with dead specimens. There was still a fairly strong odor
of the cyanid from the wet soil and returning ants were soon killed,
although they did not die quite as rapidly as when the application
was first made.

Expervment No. 2.—One ounce of 98 per cent cyanid in 1 gallon of
water was used. On August 31, between 5.30 and 5.45 p. m., 4
gallons of this solution were applied to two nests, each about 3 feet
long and 2 feet wide. The conditions were as in Experiment No. 1
and the immediate results appeared to be about the same.

Expervment No. 3.—Two ounces of 98 per cent cyanid in 1 gallon
of water were used. On August 31, at 6 p. m., 2 gallons of this
solution were applied to a nest about 3 feet long by 2 feet wide.
The immediate results appeared to be about the same as in Experi-
ments Nos. 1 and 2, although there was a somewhat stronger odor
of the cyanid from the wet soil.

At the time these three tests were made the sun was warm and
shining brightly. The ants were very active and thousands of them
were away from the nests and among the aphis-infested cantaloupe
vines.

Since the larger lumps of cyanid dissolved rather slowly some
time was gained by breaking them up with a hammer.

At 4 p. m. on September 1 an examination was made of the nests
treated in these tests. At that time there were hundreds of dead ants
lying on the surface of the nests and a comparatively small number
of specimens was running about. Most of the living ants had appar-
ently lost interest in the aphides and had gathered on or about the
treated nests and some were carrying dead specimens. There
appeared to be little difference between the results of Experiments
Nos. 1 and 2, but there were certainly fewer live ants about the nest
treated in Experiment No. 3 than about the others.

As some fear was felt that a strong solution of the cyanid might
kill the small elm trees which occupied the ant-infested strip and as
Experiment No. 1 gave comparatively good results, it was concluded
to continue the work with that strength. Accordingly, between
4.30 and 6 p. m. on September 1, the remainder of the infested strip,
about 65 yards in length and containing 21 nests, was treated with

=

6 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

28 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-half ounce of 98 per cent
cyanid to each gallon of water. At the time of this treatment there
were thousands of ants either actually in attendance on the “‘lice”’
or running about between the nests and the infested cantaloupe vines.

At 6 p. m. on September 2 the treated strip was examined. Dea
ants by thousands, at some places in heaps, were lying on or about
the nests. Many dead specimens were also found out in the field
from 6 to 10 feet from the nests. However, at every nest there were
still a few live ants. Practically all of these survivors had gathered
about the nests and it was difficult to find a live ant out in the field,
where at the time of the treatment they occurred in surprisingly large
numbers.

In order to test the effect of a second treatment applied soon after
the first, two nests near the center of the strip were given a second
application at 5.30 p. m. September 3. This was considered as
Experiment No. 4. In this experiment 2 gallons of solution at the
rate of one-half ounce cyanid to each gallon of water were applied
to each nest as before.

An examination made of these nests on the following afternoon
(September 4) showed that although a few additional ants had been
killed no practical advantage had been gained by this treatment,
and this conclusion was not altered by frequent later examinations.

Along the entire treated strip the ants which remained alive seemed
demoralized for about a week, but by September 11 several small col-
onies had again started. The cyanid solution does not penetrate very
deeply into the nests and it is evident that the pupe escape destruc-
tion unless they are very close to the surface, and on reaching ma-
turity they are able, with the remaining live ants, to reestablish the
colonies.

By September 16 one or two of these colonies (nests) had reached
fairly good size and although the ants were moderately common
they occurred in very much smaller numbers than they did at the
time of the first general treatment (September 2). This first treat-
ment left the nests with a ‘‘crust’’ of compact soil over the surface.
At two or three nests, just under the crust, the ants had large numbers
of pupe and at a few other nests a considerable number of winged
adults had crawled out and was clustered about the openings.

At this date (September 16) all the nests in the entire strip were
again treated with 25 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-half
ounce of 98 per cent cyanid to each gallon of water. A particular
effort was made to soak the winged specimens and the pupe. All the
adults touched were readily killed, but the pupz showed no immediate
effect from the treatment.

An examination made on the following afternoon showed that
although the number of ants had been very considerably reduced

—

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT. aT

there were still some living specimens at each nest. The pup at the
treated nests seemed to be dead and the living ants paid no attention
to them. It was observed that at two places quite a number of
pupe had been overlooked and not soaked by the solution and at

_ another place a moderate number of winged specimens had crawled

|
|
|

from an opening of an untreated (overlooked) nest.

By September 27 about a dozen small, weak colonies had started,
and on the following day between 4 and 5 p. m. all the inhabited nests
were again treated with 25 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-
half ounce of 98 per cent cyanid to each gallon of water. In this
treatment all the openings in the nests were enlarged with a pointed
stick and from a quart to a gallon of the solution poured into each.
At this date many of the cantaloupe vines had been trampled down
by the pickers or had died from disease or other cause. As a result
there was not a very good supply of aphides in the immediate vicinity
of the nests and the ants were mostly close about or in the nests.
At two places many pupe were present and at another nest there were
a good many winged specimens. ;

Examination made on the following day (September 29) showed
that there were still a few living ants about the nests, and the pups
were still light in color and did not appear to be dead. A day later
some of the pup appeared to be still alive, but as all of these were
embedded in the moist soil, where the living ants paid no attention
to them, they certainly could not have survived. At this time there
was no odor of the cyanid over the nests, but when lumps of the
moist soil were picked up the odor from them was quite apparent.

Repeated examinations made of the treated strip during October
and November showed that the ants had almost completely disap-
peared, while at untreated (check) nests they occurred in large num-
bers. It would be interesting to know what became of the few
specimens which survived the last treatment. Possibly they became
discouraged and went to less troubled quarters.

It is evident that from experiments of this nature definite or final
conclusions can not yet be reached. The work was begun so late
in the season that the rather gradual decrease in the number
of the ants had no marked effect on the melon aphis. It showed
that to keep this species within reasonable bounds repeated appli-
cations of the cyanid and constant watching are necessary. As
this would require so much more attention than the ordinary farmer
can be induced to give, it does not seem probable that this method
will ever become very popular for this particular species of ant,
unless it can be definitely proved that this species is a more important
factor in the melon-aphis problem than it is now known to be. It is
very probable that quicker results would have been obtained if a
stronger solution had been used.

78 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

At Rocky Ford, Colo., 98 per cent potassium cyanid was obtainable
in small lots for 50 cents a pound. When used at the rate of a pound
in 30 or 32 gallons of water this makes a comparatively cheap solution.

Although this solution is extremely poisonous, there need not be
undue risk to human beings from its use if proper care is exercised
in preparing and handling it. When leaning over a half barrel of the
solution for the purpose of stirring it or dipping out pailfuls, the
fumes were quite noticeable and, with the writer, caused a slight dull
headache which lasted a short time. Although in applying the solu-
tion the writer’s hands were frequently wet with it, and no ill effects
resulted, yet it would be safer to keep the solution from coming into
contact with the skin. Some persons are peculiarly susceptible to
this poison, and with some its contact with the skin causes a rash.
Persons with weak hearts should be especially careful not to inhale
the fumes.

O

tes-DEPART MENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 64, Part X.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.

BY

H. M. RUSSELL,
Agent and Expert.

IssueD NOVEMBER 12, 1910.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1910.

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
C. L. Maruart, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R.S. Curton, Executive Assistant.
W. F. Taster, Chief Clerk.

F. H. Currrenpen, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
A. D. Hopkins, in charge of forest insect investigations.

W. D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.

F. M. Wesster, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.

A. L. QuartnTANce, in charge of deciduous frit insect investigations.

E. F. Putiures, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Roarrs, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.

Rouia P. Currie, in charge of editorial work.

Mase Cotcorp, librarian.

II P
58772°—10

may

~

COMTENIS,.
Page
Bare NORRIE Rte a AS 1. 2 wo cha et Dee HO Sci nete ene als st 79
LENS) LSS D6 5 a rr = ea 79
UES RUe Dri MELO |Sie) 2 Re ae lt Re a2 ee a 80
MIGRATE NOES eee IS SNS oo ey Se eee oS ees Sle a in hae apo wpa a aie 80
pmmnmlin ike a: gas sese 2s 22s oon Sas seen OTE pee a Lee ne eT 81
Panta ESHER URIN CN Ut Shain or a Pict oy eas oh Soe partes 81
LEE CGS COT NS, en eo 82
ULES) TUL TGS Sie ga ea BS. a oc Ne ee ee EE 82
CLD, GIS a Se Ogi Ee le re 2 ee a kaa 82
Pike AEN NANG AT VAN CARCRE este ees FS et ay. eh a toon sone ee = 83
ERIM UE aes en ee eels «Seng Saas nen wee ies ween Eee 83
“PSuCEPEAS SG Aleke) 0 il ieee Oe el SA ee eer ee a 83
ELaS VES) (0) SUEY BA a eae ae 84
Pioneer tey opine IAA seo sea = a aw = Ses Sei ene sree ses oss olele Ze 85
CURE SATE MELON aR OS a me 85
Cn SY AEE GEE WS AGN Ga tats So SE a a ea 86
Ream NRMMNR RA DLR ee fete Pe ee ier ye ok RS cco tn = Seats s Wie tin <td Shane Sida 86
PLUS. RATIONS:
PLATES.

Page.

Pirate V. Work of the pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella). Fig.

1.—Twig of pecan, showing injury to foliage. Fig. 2.—Leaves of
PECAN. SHOWING: HN OSes ot ac ae Jee aos oe ee ee eee oe 82

VI. Pecan tree, showing foliage checked and injured by pecan cigar
case-bearer..........- Woe se eas oe tte oe tee ee ee eee oie 84

VII. Normal pecan tree, same size as that shown in Plate VI, but with-
out injury by the pecan cigar case-bearer.................------ 84

TEXT FIGURES.

Fic. 23. Pecan twigs with buds and young leaves killed by pecan cigar case-
pearer(Cateophora caryxfolvelia) -- 2% 222s a ess es nanan dawns = 81

24. The pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella): Adult, larvee in
GIS iene cet coe A Sp DOR Seer Ae Ree ae Joe anise ere 82

Ill

WT ee 5

sgh a ae ee:

eee ere ya A
} , o
ir .
.
*
7
\
; -
-
a
ic 4
rr
‘
’
o a
i
ool
n u
Wt 4
7) oS
m ‘ + bd oe he
Pas 5
t
‘
:
.
i :
ft
K
‘ : s :
*
si :
. ’ |
one
Yel
‘ "
.
’
i |

a

Use. A., Bs BE. Bul. 64, Part xX. Issued November 12, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.

(Coleophora caryxfoliella Clem.)

By H. M. Russe 1,
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

Among the insects of minor importance that affect the pecan, the
pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryefoliella Clem.) is probably
met with in groves more than any other species. At times the insect
occurs in such numbers as to defoliate entire trees, checking their
erowth and considerably reducing the crop of nuts. In the future
this insect is likely to cause increasing damage as the acreage in
pecans increases, and it may become as great a pest to the pecan as
Coleophora fletcherella Fernald is to the apple. The occurrence of this
insect in large numbers at Orlando, Fla., during the spring of 1909
presented the opportunity of studying it, and the results are given
in this article. The dates for appearance of the different stages are
for that locality. These dates will undoubtedly vary as we go north-
ward.

EARLY HISTORY.

Clemens?!? first described this species in 1861, as Coleophora caryzfo-
liella, from larve found feeding in their cases on leaves of hickory
during the fall. He gave a short description of the larva and case,
but did not succeed in rearing the adult.

In 1872 Clemens’s original description? was republished in his
““Tineina of North America,’’ edited by H. T. Stainton.

Chambers,’ in 1874, described the adult under the name Coleophora
rufoluteella, from specimens captured in Kentucky in June.

Writing again in 1878, Chambers‘ places his rufoluteella as a
synonym under caryeefoliella. He wrote at that time: “C. rufoluteella
Cham. is known only from captured specimens. I am, however,
utterly unable to distinguish it from specimens bred by me in the
latter part of June from larval cases found feeding on hickory leaves

a The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the appended
bibliography, p. 86.
79

80 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

in the manner described by Doctor Clemens for caryzfoliella, and I
believe it to be the same species. ”’

During 1882 Lord Walsingham ® identified a specimen, reared from
Prunus americana, as C. rufoluteella which he thought to be distinct
from caryefoliella. Packard,® in 1890, wrote of this insect, under
insects injurious to hickory: ‘‘The larva feeds in a cylindrical case
_ attached to the under surface of the leaves.”

During the same year there was published in Insect Life’ a brief
note recording the parasite, Rhyssalus trilineatus Ashm., as having
been reared from this species on hickory at Washington, D. C., May
5, 1893.

Apparently nothing more was written until 1905, when Gossard,*
in his bulletin on pecan insects, mentions what is undoubtedly this
species as ‘Coleophora sp.”’

RECENT RECORDS.

May 5, 1901, Mr. L. O. McPherson, of Josephine, Ala., sent in larvae
of this species affecting the pecan. Writing of this attack, October 23,
1905, Mr. McPherson stated that in the year mentioned this insect
entirely denuded a number of large trees of their leaves during
May and June only.

June 3, 1907, the larval cases of this insect were observed on pecan
at Orlando, Fla. March 16, 1908, the winter cases of these larvee
were found clustered together on twigs of pecan in a deserted grove
outside of Orlando. April 2 and 7, 1908, the larvee were again,
observed at Orlando, Fla. They were just leaving their winter cases
for the larger spring cases.

In 1909, during April and May, several large trees in the grove of
Mr. C. W. Townsend, of Orlando, Fla., were almost completely pre-
vented from putting’out foliage until weeks after other trees had done.
so, because the larvee of this species were so numerous on the buds
and leaves. May 11 found this insect causing considerable defolia-
tion to pecan trees at the old Standard Oil grove just west of Orlando,
now owned by Mr. Long. At the same time it was abundant in all
the groves around Orlando. On May 16 Mr. J. D. Mitchell, of this
Bureau, reared this insect from leaves of pecan at Victoria, Tex.

DISTRIBUTION.

This species was first described by Clemens in a paper on North
American Tineina, but the locality for his specimens is not given.
V. T. Chambers records it from larval cases taken in Kentucky and
records capture of the adult at Covington, Ky. Prof. H. A. Gossard
records what is undoubtedly this species as met with on “almost
every tree I examined for the purpose of finding it” m Florida.
The author, while working in Florida during the years 1907-1909,
found it in every grove examined around Orlando.

se tt el i i ee

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. 81

Tn the Bureau of Entomology and the U.S. National Museum there
are specimens from McPherson, Ala.; Victoria, Tex.; Pittsburg, Pa.;
Hampton, N. H.; Washington, D. C.; Virginia; and New York.

From these records of capture and injury, this insect seems to be
distributed throughout the Austroriparian faunal area of the United
States and may also
extend into the Caro-
linian and into the
lower edge of the
Alleghanian areas.

FOOD PLANTS.

The pecan cigar
case-bearer feeds
principally on nut-
bearing trees, and of
these it has been ob-
served feeding on
walnut, pecan, and
hickory. It has been
doubtfully recorded
on dogwood and
Prunus americana.

CHARACTER OF IN-
JURY.

Damage by the pe-
can cigar case-bearer
occurs during the
early spring, prin-
cipally to budded
trees, and is due to
the feeding of the
larve on the tender
buds and unfolding
leaves. Where this
insect is very abun-
dant it causes injury
in two ways. If the
buds are backward in opening, the larve leave the twigs where they
have hibernated, and crawling to the swelling buds attack them and
eat out the contents, so that the life is destroyed, and before the tree

Fig, 23.—Pecan twigs with buds and young leaves killed by pecan
cigar case-bearer ( Coleophora caryxfoliella). (Original.

‘an put outits foliage the dormant buds must develop. Figure 23, taken
May 6, 1909, shows pecan twigs with buds destroyed by these larvee ;

82 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

the winter cases are still seen attached to sides of the buds. On the
other hand, if the trees develop their foliage before the larve leave
hibernation in injurious numbers, the leaves are riddled by the larve
as they come from the twigs and the wind soon whips them to pieces.
In this way, by feeding on the opening buds and young leaves in
great numbers, this insect may delay the trees from coming into foliage
for a period of from six to eight weeks. Because of this, young trees
are held back during the most important period of their growth, and
older trees, owing to this extra demand for nourishment for building
leaves, probably have the crop of nuts for the year considerably
decreased. Plate V, figure 1, shows a pecan twig with the young
leaves ragged and largely destroyed by this insect, and Plate V, figure
2, shows the mines of the larve and some of the case-bearers at work.
Plate VI is from a photograph of a pecan tree, taken May 6, 1909,
showing injury by this insect. Plate VII shows a tree not attacked

by this insect, which had been in full
~ foliage for at least four weeks. When
* the writer left Orlando, June 13, the
injured tree shown in Plate VI was still
partly bare.

DESCRIPTION.

The adult.—Coleophora caryzfoliella
5 isoneof the Microlepidoptera belonging
Fig. 24.—The pecan ceases (Coleo- to the family Elachistidee, characterized
phora caryzfoliella): a, Adult; 6, ¢,larve hy narrow, pointed wings with long
in cases. Greatly enlarged. (Original.) ‘ : :
fringes on the inner margins. The adult
is a delicate little moth, ochreous in color, with a wing expanse of about
9mm. The head is yellowish ochreous, with white scales over the
eyes, the palpi and base of the antenne the same color as the head,
and the rest of the antenne white ringed with brown. The body is
the same color as the head, while the fore wings are reddish ochreous
with costal margin white and fringe on inner border gray, and the
hind wings are gray or whitish. This moth is well illustrated in
figure 24 at a.
Chambers described the adult as follows:

The species is ochreous; the head and palpi pale or yellowish ochreous; the an-
tenn white, annulate with brown; fore wings reddish ochreous, darker towards the
apex, with the costal margin from base to cilia white.

The ornamentation of the imago is nearer that of C. limosipennella than to any of
the other species figured in Nat. Hist. Tin. Al. ex. 43 lines.

The egg—The egg has not been observed by the author, but is
probably very similar to that of C. fletcherella as described by A. G.
Hammar.?

«United States Dept. Agr., Bur. Ent., Bul. 80, Pt. II, p. 37, June 30, 1909.

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE V.

Fig. 1.—Twig of pecan, showing injury to foliage. (Original.)

Fig. 2.—Leaves of pecan, showing mines. On upper leaf are larve in cases at work. About
natural size. (Original.)

WORK OF THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER (COLEOPHORA CARYA-FOLIELLA).

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. 83

The larva and larval cases.—The case in which the larva passes the
winter is small, 3-3.5 mm. long, very flat, cylinderlike, and by the
end of winter has the same color as the twigs or bark on which it
rests. In the spring the larva is found in a case that is considerably
larger. This is 5-7 mm. long, cylindrical, flattened vertically at the
upper end, and slightly rounded at the lower. This case is made
from a hollowed portion of leaf and so shows the entire leaf structure.
It becomes reddish brown in color, and resembles a minute cigar.

The mature larva is about 5.5 mm. long and 1 mm. wide, the
cylindrical body having well-marked segments. The head is one-
half as wide as the body, hemispherical, flattened, black in color,
with the triangle reddish. The body is ight brown, with cervical
shield oval, shining black, divided along center by a light brown line.
The third segment of the body has a small black shield like the
cervical, the anal plate shining black. The surface of the body is
finely punctured and bears scattered, short, white hairs. The legs
are ight brown, while the prolegs are wanting or very small, marked
by minute elevations, except the anal pair, which are large and
functional. The nearly mature larva is well illustrated in its case in
figure 24, b, ¢.

The pupa.—The pupa is formed within the larval case, and is
about 5.5 mm. long and 1 mm. wide, cylindrical, having nearly the
same diameter throughout the entire length. The head and eyes are
blackish, while the remainder of the pupa is light yellowish-brown.
The leg cases extend beyond the tip of the abdomen.

Clemens described this species from the larval case, but did not
rear the adult. His original description is as follows:

1. C. caryzxfoliella. The larva mines the leaves of hickory in September and
October. The head and body is [are] reddish-brown, somewhat darker on the second
and third rings.

The case is small, dark brownish, and in form is a flattened simple cylinder. The
larva feeds only in small rectangular patches, of which there are usually several in
the same leaf. The case is fixed to the under surface and the larva feeds in one patch

until it is compelled to remove its entire body from its case, and then removes to
another part of the leaf to form a new mine.

HABITS OF THE ADULT.

The moths emerge from the pup during May and June and at that
time may be found among the pecan trees. When only recently
emerged from the pup they rest either on the pupal cases or on the
leaves or twigs of the host plant, with the fore wings folded back
over the hind wings and flat over the abdomen, while the antennx
are held closely together and directed forward. During the day they
seem to rest among the leaves.

84 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.
HABITS OF THE LARVA.

The larve of Coleophora caryefoliella, upon hatching from the
eges in July, mine the leaves of the host plant, and after feeding there
for some time cut out the two skins of the mine and construct the
cases within which they live during the fall and winter. After the
cases are made the larve feed upon the leaves-by eating through the
lower epidermis and tunneling out the interior of the leaf in all
directions until the mine is so large that to mine farther the larvee
would have to leave their cases. Under such conditions they move
and begin a new mine, so that the leaves become full of irregular
rectangular patches of brown with a small round hole in the center
on the underside. In feeding, the larve carry the cases nearly
perpendicular to the leaf surface. When the larve move they extend
the head and thorax and crawl along, bearing the case aloft behind.
In the fall, some time in October, before the leaves fall, these larvee
move from the leaves to the twigs or to the trunk, where they get
behind the bark. Often they get in between the bud and the twig.
Here they fasten the cases to the support and hibernate. The writer
has seen from fifteen to twenty minute cases on a twig 4 to 5 inches
in length, and where very abundant they will cluster together literally
in hundreds. Gossard’? has a photograph of these winter cases com-
pletely covering a twig.

In the spring, when the weather becomes warm enough, generally
between March 15 and April 1, these larvee become active and leave
the twigs, where they have spent the winter, to commence feeding.
If the trees are backward they often begin to feed before the leaves
have developed and in such cases attach themselves to the swelling
buds. Each larva eats a minute round hole into a bud and feeds as
long as it can reach food without leaving its small case. When this
becomes impossible the larva changes position and attacks the bud
in a new place, so that infested buds are often found with four or
five holes in the sides. Under such treatment the buds are killed or
the tiny leaves start and are killed, and turning brown drop off.
Often the larve attack the young tender leaves and mine out rectan-
gular blotches in them. . About the first week in April these larvee
outgrow their winter cases and construct larger ones.

Larve forming new cases move to the edge of the leaf and mine
between the two skins. They then cut out a portion of the leaf,
using the edge for one side. The sides are then sealed with silk, an
opening being left at one end for the head. From the method of
making new nests one edge of the case will often show serrations of
the leaf edge. The larve then leave the old case attached to the
leaf, where the latter has been cut to form a new case. They eat
out large mines from 2 to 8 mm. long and 4 to 5 mm. wide (PI. V,

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE VI.

EL...

PECAN TREE, SHOWING FOLIAGE CHECKED AND INJURY BY PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.
(ORIGINAL. )

a

hey
on

A
he

a he Pe 4

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE VII.

NORMAL PECAN TREE, SAME SIZE AS THAT SHOWN IN PLATE VI, BUT WITHOUT INJURY
BY THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. (ORIGINAL.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. 85

fig. 2) in the leaves, feeding generally on the under side but some-
times on the upper also. These mines are deserted by the larve
when they can not reach more of the surrounding tissue without
leaving their cases, and new mines are made. In this way badly
infested leaves may have from six to twenty mines to each leaflet.
Soon the old mines dry up and are broken out by the wind, leaving
the leaves full of ragged holes. The larvee feed during the day and can
often be seen with the head and part of the body inserted between
the leaf surfaces, eating out the tissues in an ever-enlarging angular
mine. If disturbed or in search of fresh food, these larvee will move
around considerably. When making a new mine the end of the case
is loosely fastened and held diagonally attached, to the leaf. (See
fig. 24.)
HABITS OF THE PUPATING LARVA.

During May most of the larve become mature and they then
either fasten the case tightly to the leaves and pupate or move to
twigs, branches, or bits of bark on the trunk of the tree and fasten
the cases there. The larve spin a quantity of silk by which they
fasten the cases very firmly to the support, after which they reverse
their position, so that the head is pointing out toward the unattached
end. After remaining quiet for a number of days the pupz are
formed, and the adults emerge during the last of May or the first of

June.
SEASONAL HISTORY.

As far as observed, this insect has only one brood during the year,
the larve hibernating when only partially grown.

In Florida the larve of this species become active from the 15th
to the 30th of March, when the buds of the pecan are opening, or
just after they have opened. Leaving the twigs and sheltered
places where they have hibernated, they begin feeding on the buds
or tender leaves. In a short time these larve outgrow their old
winter cases and construct new ones of larger size. During the spring
of 1908 this occurred mostly between April 1 and April 7.

The larve, after forming new cases, continue feeding and grow
rapidly until May, when they become full grown.

By May 4, 1909, a few larve pupated and, as others pupated from
time to time, by May 19 or 20 the greater part of the brood was in
the pupal state. This pupal period occupies about twelve days.

An adult was observed in the cage on May 11, but most of the
moths emerge from May 27 to June 5. On June 3 the adults were
abundant on the foliage of pecan.

The adult probably lays her eggs on the underside of the leaves
during June, and by the middle of July the larve are working as
miners in the leaves of pecan. After a time they construct their

86 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

minute cases and feed on the foliage until fall, probably until the
last of September or first part of October, when they move to twigs to
hibernate, sometimes being packed around them by the hundreds.
Others hibernate under bits of bark on the trees or in crotches and
other sheltered spots.

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Where this insect: becomes abundant enough to be injurious it
ean with little doubt be controlled by spraying the trees with
arsenate of lead (at the rate of 3 pounds to 50 gallons of water)
when the buds are swelling—in March in central Florida and in
similar climates. When the larve attack the foliage, this should be
similarly sprayed.

Lime-sulphur mixture applied during the dormant season would
undoubtedly give good results.

Where trees are sprayed in spring for the budworm (Proteopteryx
deludana Clem.) no further treatment will be required for the case-
bearer.

A bibliographical list follows:

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. CLEMENS, BRACKENRIDGE.—Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Phila-
delphia, Vol. I, p. 78, 1861. |
Original description of the species from larva and case; adult not reared.
2. CLEMENS, BRACKENRIDGE.—Tineina of North America, p. 166, 1872. Edited
by H. T. Stainton.
Same account as in No. 1.
3. CHAMBERS, V. T.—Canadian Entomologist, Vol. VI, p. 129, 1874.
Described captured adults as C. rufoluteella n. sp.
4. CoamBers, V. T.—Canadian Entomologist, Vol. X, p. 112, 1878.

Made his rufoluteella synonym of caryzfoliella, giving description of adult, larva, and larval case,
and brief account of larval habits.

WALSINGHAM, THOS.—Transactions of the Entomological Society of London for
1882, pp. 430-431.
Regards rufoluteciia as distinct from caryxfoliella.
6. Pacxarp, A. S.—Fifth Report U. 8. Entomological Commission, p. 316, 1890.
A brief account of habits.
. [Eprrorist].—Insect Life, Vol. II, p. 351, 1890.
Mention of parasite.
8. Gossarp, H. A.—Bul. 79, Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, p. 304, 1905.

Brief account of injury to pecan by an unidentified Coleophora, probably this species, and
remedies.

C1

~I

Brief mention has also been made of the occurrence of this species
in Florida and Texas in recent Yearbooks of the Department.

O

Peo OE PARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE:

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN NO. 64.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

CONTENTS AND INDEX.

IssuED JANUARY 27, 1911.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFIOE.

1911. Z\bok2Z

DAP SEE: igs

ral

MURR UN IAKONTS i)

PFU to fs he

tes. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN NO. 64.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

I], THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905,

By A. W. MORRILL, Special Field Agent.
I]. NOTES ON THE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS.
By W. DWIGHT PIERCE, Special Field Agent.
III. NOTES ON “PUNKIES.”
By F.C. PRATT, Special Field Agent.
IV, AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF APION,
WITH NOTES ON RELATED FORMS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

V. INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

VI. THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.

By H. M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.
VII. NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL.
By E. S. TUCKER, Special Field Agent.
VII. THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY: A NEW ENEMY OF THE
FLORIDA ORANGE,
By E. A. BACK, Agent and Expert.
IX. NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT,
By H. O. MARSH, Agent and Expert.

X. THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.

By H. M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1911.

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
C. L. Maruart, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R. 8S. Currron, Executive Assistant.
W. F. Taster, Chief Clerk.

CHITTENDEN, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
Hopxmys, in charge of forest insect investigations.

Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.

WEBSTER, in charge of cercal and forage insect investigations.

QUAINTANCE, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.

Pures, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Rocers, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.

Roiia P. Currin, in charge of editorial work.

Mase. Cotcorp, librarian.

BE
A= D)
W.D.
1a
Agi.
EK. F.

II

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U.S. DerarTMENT or AGRICULTURE,
BurEAU OF ENTOMOLOGY,
Washington, D. C., November 30, 1910.

Srr: I have the honor to transmit herewith ten papers on miscella-
neous Insects for publication as Bulletin No. 64 and as No. IX of the
series of bulletins entitled ‘‘Some Miscellaneous Results of the Work
of the Bureau of Entomology.’ These papers, which were issued
separately during 1907, 1908, 1909, and 1910, are as follows: The
Mexican Conchuela in Western Texas in 1905, by A. W. Morrill;
Notes on the Economic Importance of Sowbugs, by W. Dwight Pierce;
Notes on ‘‘Punkies,”’ by F. C. Pratt; An Injurious North American
Species of Apion, with Notes on Related Forms, by F. H. Chittenden;
Insects Injurious to the Loco Weeds, by F. H. Chittenden; The
Greenhouse Thrips, by H. M. Russell; New Breeding Records of the
Coffee-bean Weevil, by E.S. Tucker; The Woolly White-fly, by E. A.
Back; Notes on a Colorado Ant, by H. O. Marsh; the Pecan Cigar
Case-bearer, by H. M. Russell.

Respectfully, L. O. Howarp,
Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
Hon. JAMES WILSON,

Secretary of Agriculture.
: Ill

PREFACE.

The present publication comprises ten articles previously pub-
lished separately as parts and now brought together to form the
complete bulletin, which is No. IX of the series entitled ‘‘Some
Miscellaneous Results of the Work of the Bureau of Entomology.”
The previous bulletins of this series are Nos. 7, 10, 18, 22, 30, 38, 44,
and 54. The articles of the present bulletin relate to species which,
although economically important, do not properly come under the
scope of any of the other bulletins thus far published in parts, viz,
those relating to forest insects, the cotton boll weevil and related
and associated insects, truck-crop insects, deciduous fruit insects,
cereal and forage insects, and apiculture. The investigations the
results of which are here published were, however, conducted coin-
cidently with the various projects of several branches of the Bureau,
including those dealing with some of the groups of insects men-
tioned above.

The first paper treats of the Mexican conchuela, a species inves-
tigated in Mexico in 1904, at which time it had not yet been reported
to entomologists as of economic importance in the United States.
It was predicted at that time that should the pest become abundant
in Texas it would cause considerable damage to crops. The results
of investigations in Texas in 1905 confirmed the prophecies of 1904.

Part II presents economic notes on three common species of sow-
bugs encountered during field-crop investigations in Texas and other
parts of the South, while Part III, by F. C. Pratt, treats of the
biologies of the various biting flies belonging to the genus Ceratopogon,
known commonly as ‘‘ punkies.”’

Part IV treats of a small weevil (Apion griseum Sm.) injurious to
beans in Texas and New Mexico and includes biologic notes on a
number of related forms.

Part V considers a number of the more important insects which
feed upon the loco weeds. This investigation was undertaken in
cooperation with the loco-weed investigations of the Bureau of
Plant Industry, and as it was conclusively shown that insects of
several species were largely responsible for control of the plant on
prairies and grass lands a publication covering these insects was

deemed desirable.
Vv

VI MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Part VI considers the greenhouse thrips (fHeliothrips hemor-
rhoidalis Bouché), a species previously recorded as injurious to
a number of hothouse plants. This insect was found injurmg mango,
crotons, and other plants on beds and in parks at Miami, Fla. The
results of a series of experiments for its control are given in this
number.

Part VII is largely supplemental to an article m Bulletin No. 8
of the Division of Entomology, giving a note on new food materials
for the coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus DeG.). This
insect was discovered working in chinaberries and cornstalks adja-
cent to cotton fields during an investigation of cotton insects.

A new and dangerous species of Aleyrodes attacking citrus fruits
is the subject of Part VIII. This species (Aleyrodes howardi Quaint.),
which occurs on several islands of the West Indies, including Cuba
and Porto Rico, has recently made its appearance in Florida. Present”
indications are that this species will be controllable by the same
measures used for the citrus white fly, which it much resembles in
capacity for damage.

Part IX gives the results of experiments undertaken for the con-
trol of a species of ant (Kormica cinereorufibarbis Forel), which fosters
the melon aphis in Colorado, protecting it largely from predaceous
enemies. The control of this ant may prove of great value as a
measure against the melon aphis.

Part X is a biologic account of a minor pecan pest, the pecan cigar
casebearer in the South, and includes suggestions for its control.

CONTENTS

: Page.

The Mexican conchuela (Pentatoma ligata Say) in western Texas in 1905,
A. W. Morrill. . 1
Sere TMCS CCNMICCION =. 555 he Se ee es ee Oe Lae 2
General agricultural conditions at Barstow, Tex......................-.- 2
Pamiape toicrops previous to 1905.22 22.2. 2 ne ee oeh edhe sane 2
ANT Tp aE eke ero Ma de See A rs ep ey A 3
“ID Thar io aye wo PIS 2 inl nie Dp em ee a RR 8
DE EES eS S05 ey Bi aa ae ee i eee 8
ERMC MIBC a A CRIS no ees rh Poe alee g Veto ee ees OI 9
is LE HLATETSNS, GBI 010 1 0) (Siege AS i Ne ee CS ee 11
Notes on the economic importance of sowbugs....-..-.-..-. W. ‘Du ight Pierce. - 15
SEMEL AITEENHINOFE NUMURS te ne eo ke Ne te c's Bceciet dee ze sine teed na 15
JS SOURCE LOT GL U2 er i ne Na eae ea eae AL Sere 21
MELaEENOTOIES PIuInosus Dlang et... 222222222 fi 22s ToS eee en ede wee 22,
PRIME ene Sees Se ti te ke ee Ne tS oy ete Mean 22
Notes on ‘‘ Punkies” (Ceratopogon spp.).---....-------- sp Ra cae H.C. Praity. 23
NETS 20 0 UU SAIL One Ca Re a er 23
Givemepecled On COrmunpocOle na. fa 62. caer = ace dec Pe Se aie se sien wre oh 26
Other blood-aneking:Ghirondmiid-=22.=22) 272202 se eS ote de ss ere 28

An injurious North American species of Apion, with notes on related forms,
F. H. Chittenden. . 29

RRS LOMMUUECUIT SIR iets coat om ce a oe ees Ben ag ie = Sesfid SRL At seein eas 29
PaO EAE DN none Paso nin olds Sie eg teas SA Ne nen os Se ae Sue 30
Mgr naME re tLe OG TOLMS 222%) nate. nd oat ae os Wak Oe Oe AAS aes ee 31
insects injurious tothe loco weeds. ...............-.....-- F.. H. Chittenden. . 33
The false-indigo gall-moth ( Walshia amorphella Clem.)........-.---------- 34
The loco root-maggot (Pegomya lupina Coq.).......-.-----------+-------- 35
The fickle midge (Sciara inconsians Fitch): ..... 2222. 2... Ss . nc see ee wee 36
The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevr.).........-..--.-- 37
ane yellow loco fly (Tritoza incurva Loew.)..........--.2.....-2.0- eee ees 38
The spotted root fly (Zuvesta notata Wied.).........-........2---222-200- 38
The bur-clover aphis (Aphis medicaginis Koch)..............-.---------- 40
The meal snout-moth (Pyralis farinalis L.)............------- : eo ae 40
AS eSNG) fer) et Oe ee : 41
MIBCCMAT COMB ISCO USS acs ou Soar ae ro soe ae ecyofaal- oo ee sees - eevee rms a. 41

a The ten papers constituting this bulletin were issued in separate form on April 2,
1907 (Pts. I to III), January 14 and May 29, 1908 (Pts. IV and V), August 4 and 5,
1909 (Pts. VI and VII), and May 7, October 17, and November 12, 1910 (Pts. VIII
to X).

68045°— Bull. 64—11——2 vil

Wane MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

The greenhouse thrips (Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis Bouché). . - - - H. M. Russell. .
EEISLOLY 2 vise oo ~i-WinSain area Ste ream Secretar ge tect ae
Recent records; s- 02 she.-g ss cuss eme ost k eee ee ee eee ds Renae
Nature and:extent of injuries. 5242-2265: coon. soe Soe eee eee
Origin and distribution: $2. 20) 2 2927 ee SR
Description... 222dec sc. tote Oe eee | ieee ee eee ce ee eee
Habits'of the adullt.272 (stacker a ee eee
HabttsjoF the larvae. 2.60) esas. ee ee ee Cee ee nee ee
Habits of the prepupa and pupa... O02 5. eee ee ee ee ae ee
Hood plants: 322202 2 oe Se ee ee Be ore Oe ae ee 2 a ee
Tite history soo cee: . SUMMED Oe ee ee eee ee
Natural: control 22-225. D595 RSP ae Ae eee he ae ae ee ee

DibliosrapMy sve. 5 see pee eee Eee eee ce 2 eee eee
New breeding records of the coffee-bean weevil (Arzxcerus fasciculatus De Geer),
HS. Lucker

Nature of injury to corn.........--. sR StS Dhaee wee Chere eo ee ee
Notes on:life-histony. inveormmi.t.t 27222 bsee a8 eee ce eee eee aoe
Occurrence in.chinaberries: parasites...$.-..22.0¢. 20 eae s oer eee
Habits mm igenerale. 25220). Caco de koe ot ie owe Pie ie eee eee
The woolly white-fly: A new enemy of the Florida orange (Aleyrodes howardi
Quaintance)) 70 ay Ns oo, Se No cine Vaeten cetera ne E. A. Back. .
Injury and.extent:of infestation!) S27 Gi at ese ncn ee ne eee eee eee
Life history. 3022 Soe oP Se SE eee
Description..228b. tes oo eds ee a ee ene ee
Hood plants. j2..2 coe eles a eee os ce cine eee ae eee
Distribution. 2c 202 62s eee ek se ae Ae ee ee eee

Remediesy.. oe aos Pe SA Cee alars Pepe Nere ei He ee ees et
Notes on a Colorado ant (Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel)... .-.- HH. O. Marsh. .
Injurtous habits. ss25 ec sss) See eye ee eee ee
Experiments with potassium cyanid as a remedy..............---.--.----
The pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella Clem.)....H. M. Russell. .
Pearly history 220-0 e SI Seis whale apes ok, wikis cece aU ee ea
Recent/recordg a5. 255.0 2 Bane pen east eo ceis he ee ee
Dist ra UG ss ees a a eet A Sa Sac ea
Food’ plants... 35) ..-2ae 00 ce SSE e ies Ree eee ee ee i le
Chavacter of impuiy s.oete Sos ee er ee ee ee eee ee
Deseription cies beck. Mes cS cosas Sie ei oe Ce oS See ee
Habits‘of the adult. 6-0 eee eet eee oe ene ee =i vars sain ne
Habits of the larva oc 202.6" he ec ee Oe eee ree ah
Habits of the pupating Jarvacss ves... csp e sectaw ee eee nee eee
Seasonal ‘history 2.060 5.42 22. Owes ocd bap co Ree en ie ee ee
Recommendations: 2c. : cob sea eee eee De eee eee eee
Bibliography -. oiecscs 228 ew ee. Cte vee ea oe ei eo ae eee
Ind excoe io. ces Se ee ee 2 SO See eee 7 ere eee

Page.
43
43
44
44
45
46
48
49
50
dL
51
52
52
58

61
61
63
63
64

65
65
66
68
70
70
70
71
73
73
74
79
79
80
80
81
81
82
83
84
85
85
86
86
87

a

Peeve l VATIONS.

PLATES.

Puate I. Fig. 1.—Egg batch of Pentatoma ligata, showing hatched and un-

Fie.

hatched eggs. Fig. 2.—Egg batch of Pentatoma ligata parasitized
RImEN GLETUONUUSTESW MCA. ahncata ej od. <ixiarewinis sicccin eisiw's'ulcidie wie tw 2 Verein d= be

Me Work of Armadiiiidium vulgare on cotton.....-....-.-.---+++------
JII. Work of the coffee-bean weevil (Arexcerus fasciculatus) in cornstalks.
IV. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance) on orange.

Vil

Tig. 1.—Moderate infestation of leaf, showing many specimens in
larval instars. Fig. 2.—Eggs on tender leaf. Fig. 3.—Heavy
infestation of leaf, showing globules of honeydew embedded in
woolly secretions overgrown by fungi...............-------------
. Work of the pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella). Fig.
1.—Twig of pecan, showing injury to foliage. Fig. 2—Leaves of
PECdiL, HNO TINGHS ss en.58 6 of foeras sao ten' sen 06- ne de eee oe
. Pecan tree, showing foliage checked and injured by pecan cigar
eRe Nee teeta el cll Os oil leg itcyasake nie, 5.8 NE Cina 's else ols
. Normal pecan tree, same size as that shown in Plate VI, but with-
oul Injury by-thepecan cigar casé-bearer-. so... .0ci...-.2-< enue

TEXT FIGURES.

SE GChOVOURIUAICOlOrs EUR). .cascccene ccs ste cee et eee teste ee one
DLC crea DAGOMESTOL CI RAUUNG tS. = tt ece occa dct tee ce we estore dep eue's
BAI LOLMOSONIUL Cmca met See tans a rayiers mete teat tiers = cy. npc ieee Ae
. The false-indigo gall-moth (Walshia amorphella): Adult, larva, work. -
. The fickle midge (Sciara inconstans): Adults and details, larva, pupa-.
. The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus): Adult.........-.-

. The meal snout-moth (Pyralis farinalis): Adult, larva and details,

SLES 75 LOD D0 200 20 ee re eR eH, Pea) Se

imenusnousprerus:, Adultjand detaila.:..-... 22. .2.seen-20ee-neese
. The greenhouse thrips (Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis): Adult female and

SOLE DERI C Td Suey ere tare ae en te ee cnc fo Kas ee cheb ea are-nc ee © Sim ae Cee e rere teat

. The greenhouse thrips: Egg, first-stage larva, full-grown larva......
Pp aueereeniausc thrips: Prepupa, pupa. ...-..---+.22..-.-..---ssenees
. The coffee-bean weevil (Arexcerus fasciculatus): Larva, adult, pupa. -
. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi): Eggs, female ovipositing. .
penne. woolly white-flv: Larva, ‘first instar. ....:............s-seeees
. The woolly white-fly: Details of larva of second instar..........----
. The woolly white-fly: Pupa case and details...............-.--..-
. Pecan twigs with buds and young leaves killed by pecan cigar case-

bener (Coleophora caryefoliella) ss... -- 2 cee eee eee eee

. The pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella): Adult, larvae in

66

BRR APRA

Page 25, line 11 from bottom, for C. read Ceratopogon.
Page 41, line 9 from bottom, for virginica read virginiana.
Page 43, between lines 4 and 5 insert (Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis Bouché).
Page 51, lines 10 and 17, for azalia read azalea.
Page 51, line 11, for lawristina read laurestina.
Page 51, line 17, for catleyia read cattleya.

Page 51, line 17, for dendrobuim read dendrobium.
Page 80, line 12, for 1893 read 1883.

x

INDEX.

Page

Adeliopria longii, parasite of Ceratopogon wheeleri....--... SE Rea aE ony SN 28

rides, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................-..2-----+++-- 51

4isculus hippocastanum, habitat of Ceratopogon hippocastani............-....- 28

nEKiewinral conditions at Barstow, Tex: ..-.2.22..-2 0.0.22 ae bee eee cee els 2
Agromyza xneiventris taken on loco weed (Aragallus), clover, Ambrosia, and

DOE sodden Sp dso sad lc SSO OS AOE ACI ae gE ae Ia aS bl Sout meri nL aap Ria aj 4]

Biegredesicrat, enemy of citrus in Florida. .......22 £20521 2.22.2 oe 65

ROR eat Se Sean Sir RW Sat RN eG, SMe RIS CALET on wi Sa el ae 65-71

SLU MOSCRID TOM: shoot. Mears SASS ee nine Wachee valet 70

CGS O 6 FGM gh OE Cat hg By NO he ei De 68-70

GEIST PICU UNOR sp eae aet I MSc SIAL SPI Nl ooo ole sina el eo nfelas stn 70

rAd Cote" Glial) 7032 SOAR ale Ne a A 68

SIEM COMTI DUA Ms ont tae Age wee er Me tak o,ch wish Mes eee 70-71

130 S1 UBT See Cyt ht eli A See a coo PS ae bes 70

imjuny eng extent of infestation:. 2.22.25 /52.25.2-- 22. ek 65-66

ECU ASOTs NEGA Y6]s UL ANDES CS NR a mee ae i a ne 65

Ineva, firsy instar, \Gescriptiol=. =... 20-222 en ek ec eas coe s'e 69

Becond@ instar destripton = oo a.c 6 S- cals wee Sends uo 69

{Hind Mister deseripwoMu. c+ S.22 sas op esse ee ee 69

LTTE LASTS UTE i lea = et 2s nal ane et aA all a a ea ee 66-68

BNE MOC OMe she yee oa NN gu a hs Six ia wintage ate 69-70

FETE OVS Se chia a ne ik Se piel SU Ree Seana tt 8 71

nubyera, enemy or citrugyin MRloridas. 22... 2 22. sd eek tee 65

Alfalfa, avoidance of injury to seed crop by conchuela .................-.. 12

damage by Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi in 1905......................- 3-5

previous to) 19052...) 225. J... 3

Pood. Plant OF A his MeTCUGMIe so. dans as oop oe wae eee ate eee 40

PERUOMUU TIGNES Saaaan eo eae eae Soke es Cee — 35

1 ame dee ea A aE i. ies Ay hal Sipe 2,9

protection from attacks of conchuela and grain bug................ 12-14

Alligator pear. (See Persea gratissima.)

Alydus eurinus on Lima beans and cowpeas..........-...--.---------+0--- 41

RRL ORMOND WOCUME. Soin owes eee. toon oe phe cob eee es ane 41

PIULOmmNCE WN LOCO WOCUNS.c.522. 500s. e 2 eeed eeeee 41

Amaranthus, food plant of Hadronotus militaris.................-22+--+2+++-+- 41

Ambrosia, food plant of Agromyza xnetventris............----- 2-2-2 - eee ee eens 41

Amor pha fruticosa, food plant of Walshia amorphella...............---22+2-++- 34

Anopheles barberi, location of larvee.............-- Seen SS bo ee 24-25

Pere arOten Wie Hy SOLOLHOO BPCCION..6.s6..sisc- 00s. es eee ee eee ee ewe eeee SONS

OE os 0 00 DI 2 SRR Te de aa A lS PD 40

PG Speininy PrecMnOuse drips: . 52.2222. s scsi ks. lee ee econ 53-54

Aphides attended by Formica cinereorufibarbis..........--...--22+--+e0---+- 73-74

Aphiochzxta pygmxa on Astragalus mollissimus..............-.--2000+-----220+ 42

Aphis, bur-clover. (See Aphis medicaginis.)
cotton. (See Aphis gossypii.)

68045°—Bull. 64—11——3 87

88 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Aphis gossypti on cucurbits, attendance by Formica cinereorufibarbis...... 73-14
medicaginis on loco WebGS-a a0 sees teas ae ee nee eee 40
prey ol Aippodamia convergens --. 2... a2 a eee Eee 40

melon. (See Aphis gossypii.)
punk against preenhouse thrips -.4 55.4 022.0 22-2) epeeee eee eee 54
Apion xneipenne on Meibomia (Desmodium)..................--...+------+-- 31
colon on wild bean‘in:- Mexico: ! 225 tec Se oh os = Ge eee ae cn ere eee 30
cribricolle‘on ‘Lotus glabra neces se. Sale. Ae Sioeg je ee ee ee 31
decoloratum on Meibomia paniculata and M. grandiflora, parasite... ... 31-32
fraternum, Synonym: Ol Apion GriseuM. soca coe oss = elaine ie = eee eee 30
griseum, food plants. and habits, parasites: ac27.6. see. sc eee aoe 29-30
hereiiianwm, 1000 Plants. oc. (oon Shee ee en ee tee ok a eee 32
injurious North American species, with notes on related forms........ 29-32
NigTuimMn On LOGUE 32.02. cco daa ase Fr aiepe fea a a se i ee ee 31
potrucie on wild legume. i. .de.5. 52k hke Saas aes eee eee eee =e eee eee 31
proclive on Diupinus arborea, Parasites. 5-22. o4et one oo ee 31
segnipeson Cracca virginiana, PaTasite..° 25+ --sn-ense% ose oc ieee ee ee 31
turbulentum on Meibomiua marylandica.. 225,22 552 aes te oa 31
Apple,'food plant of Coleophora fetcherella ic bene a eee se 79
Heliothrips hemorrhotdaus oo... oes on 0 cote ee ee 44
ADIGE, fOOG OL Huresla MOUItG = — ow maintains Sela ee el ola ee ee ete 39
AG PEETUS fASCUCULIUUR. oo ee io oe ar meta emnoras ales ieee ote coe Ge ne 61-64
habits in general. 52253. see cine eee een yee 64
In ‘chimaberrless Joi. sce see ete eae hee ae = eee re ere 63-64
injJUry GOiCOM: 2.5 sc /4-7 Pee ee eee ee eee 61-62
IMETORWCHLON. sz d2tbe Vigil eee reo aes ar ee 61
life history: im: Corne.4.aen 422 eee ee ea ee 63
PRTASLUGS: si Seo See a ke Be ay a 63-64
Aragallus lamberti, food plant of Aphis medicaginis........-.....------------- 40
Cleonus quadrilineatyse: 2: 2c eee ee 37
Melonoptus SDD cctitnceitee Saami a2 ee 42
(Cicanthus sp. s3 3 oo oes oe ee eee ee ee 42
O neva ObSCUTO sa ete ee cake SSE 42
Parabacillus colorady sees - oa ae e 42
Troe ARCUTD es see ee ee ee 38
hymenopterous gall thereon... 2.6. = 2 sakes cea 41
Armadilidium vulgare, biological motes: . 3...) 3256s oF etd ine eee 19-21
color differences between sexes..........--..---------- 19-20
COpUlatlon ojo <5.<5 ski ccle me =) sie ipo eine See ea 19
effect of varying natural and field conditions........ 19
habite ek wide see eb elk crate a aie se nee eee
haunts. sees ates Seu ee ep i eae eee 19
incubation period. ws60 35 f02 aces Soe eo ae te ee 20
life history. 22ti2j sec ees Oe ae ee 15-21
TOMBS 2 cisvs Since ISS SS daa 20-21
plant-feeding habits. <. 0262 <0 eee eee 18-19
rereneration Of parts... 0025-22002 eee eee 21
TOMECICR. vi. css dees YES hay A ae eee ee 21
scavenger habits 2.47 4. oe eee eee eee 19
sexual differences: 5 cos 2 ee oop eee 19-20
Arsenate of lead against pecan cigar case-bearer..........------------------- 86
Arsenic against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare. ..--.---------+-+-++++-+---+++++:> 17,18
Arsenicals against sowbug Metoponorthus pruinosus.....-------------+---+------ 22

INDEX. 89

Page.
PERCH AERA SOMOURS. Wa: c~neceie sect Sas fa SoU TS ae See tvs 2k 22
Aschersonia aleyrodis, fungous enemy of Aleyrodes howardi............--------- 70-71
DOS a SS gig SA 6 a 68
Asopia costalis. (See Hypsopygia costalis.)
Aspidium, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-......-.22----2+-+-- 51
Astragalus mollissimus, (see also Loco, purple).
food plant of Aphiochwia pygmxa..........22.25.505..: 42
Aphis NLEAICUG UNIS e see 2 Te oe. ee 40
STEMS OUT COUR arent <2. oe = ee 41
PUURDESTGTCOLACA ee AS oe ee ee 38-39
Regomiyo Vil pipes ee eke ae ek 35-36
Rrsstiews aemon. Soi et Cas ge 42
unknown leal-beetles) 5222202. 202 295222. 41
Watshia amorphella 7212222520. 38d... 34-35
roots, food of Pyratis farinalis: 22-2422... 222... 2 3-22: 40
Azalea, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis .................-..2-22-2--- 51
Back, E. A., paper, ‘‘The Woolly White-fly: A New Enemy of the Florida
Wranse. (Aleyrodes howard: Quaintance)” 22.52.2522 2222. 22s 8h foe... 65-71
aeon eaten by Armadiulidium vulgare .-5:...-.-.-.- 2262222. 2e eet ee ea dnc see 17
MNS VETSR OU. COCKICDUP 702525 25.202 b- oes foes tL eEeee 39
Bean, Metcalfe. (See Phaseolus retusus.)
‘**Raphael.’”’ (See Phaseolus wrightii.)
Mildesood plant on.Apion colon. 2.. 202 OP Cee et 30
Beans, damage by Pentatoma ligata in 1905..........---2...2-.20-220-e00 eee 7-8
dried ood o& -Arecerus Jasciculatus: 62.2222 20.6... 2190.02 22 2s... ae 64
MmyEny by -Armadiidrum vulgare: 9.222 22.222 DOL ETS 16
nena ioodeplant iol Avydus eurinus. oi - 2 2250-.- 2 0 ES oe 41
PRET ALOM ONS OU Very Seve Ws ae OED es SE) 2
Beetle of unknown species on Astragalus mollissimus..........---.---------- 41
Beets, food plants of Hadronotus militaris............---------------+---- Let 41
sugar; food: plant of Huvestanotatas TSF Sods Ys . Yeh 228 39
Begonia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............-----------+++- 51
Bard enemies of Pentatome ligata...<52202..4 -Lacuoscse bebe t Yi Mee Gale, 11
“‘Black fly,’ name given to Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis in Germany..-....------ 44
hibernation in holes made by Arexcerus fasciculatus in cornstalks. 61-62
Boll weevil, host of Cerambycobius cushmani .............-..---------------- 63-64
BUMLOMAYLOGEPMOUS Jon saa eee se een eee eee 64
Boophilus annulatus, eggs eaten by Armadillidium vulgare........----..------- 17
Porcellio- laevis 082 2 INS ee ee 22
readheaten by Armamlhdium vulgare; 2. 0.26.2 fe. 2 ee ee 17
Bruchomor pha dorsata taken on loco weeds. .........-.------------- be ee 41
Bruchus aureolus on loco weed (Astragalus)... - tee Rios SESS e. Ue Se ree 41
abagielas On Craced VITGINIANG scores ss NID ei be eee eee 41
Budworm, pecan. (See Proteopteryx deludana.)
Bug, green tree. (See Nezara hilaris.)
Buhach. (See Pyrethrum.)
Reet osm CUNO DEI as cin 2 2. cnc ane ewes oe - 6 oe es toedb steko 14
Conte tes aioe Gat see eee Ne oY PIs See) Vol bee ee 13-14
mapbace, Toodeplant of Mumesta notata.. << ase conte canes oe ee eet wey be eee nee 39
Cacao, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............--...++---+-+-++- 51
Camarotes, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............-----++-+----- 51
Canteloupes, crushed overripe, food of Formica cinereorufibarbis..........----- fi

FOO" planis-ol.Aphes gossy pressetU lll. ese ek cece omen 73-74

90 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Caragana arborescens, food plant of Aphis medicaginis.......--.-.-------------- 40
Carbon bisulphide against sowbugs in greenhouses and dwellings. ..........-- 21,22
too expensive for use against ant Formica cinereorufibarbis. . 74
Cassia, food plant of A phisimedicagints. .- <2 sot iee eee al ee 40
Catolaccus incertus, parasite of Apion decoloratum........-.---.-----+--+«--s 32
QTISEUM ick 2 Ld teen eie 2 Ree eS aa 30
Cattleya, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis............-----.-+++------ 51
Cerambycobius cushmani, parasite of Arecerus fasciculatus.........------------ 63-64
bolliweemilaw 20.2 cies hie See eee 63-64
Ceratopogon ‘braver, a mynmecophile:.s22-s2e ser == Aaciase- 52 one ee eee 27
brumalis: habits, ‘distribitioness aes. RAs ee ees eee 27
cnclus. biting habits; distributionse3. 2-22.22 2-2 2s eee eee 26
griseus, habits, distrib@tionts-os-60n-- 2-25 o-oo ee eee 27
guitipennis, biting habites.qd: so.) S408 225 hice oh esate eee 23-24
larva; habitsand\deseriptiont-c3:s0ccc¢ $5252. ose ee 24-25
hippocastani, habitse.. 2S. hoe eae ee een ere Be eee 28
mutabilis reared from human excrement, distribution.......-...-- 27
sanguisuga, biting habits, ‘distribution? <4. © te. pac-phepyecc = see 26
3] 0) Deel AOR on REE opoe us coEceDeouaScadscranocucos = 23-28
specularis, habits, distribution. 2... 2.2.25 -\sa<bee2 eas eee 27
stellifer;- biting habits, distribution. 2.2 s6scteute’ 22 b= <e peees 26
stenammatis, association with Stenamma fulvum aquia.........--- 27
tezanus, habits, distributions: 22: 22 2cpcdet aoe ey eet eee eee 28
unicolor, biting habits; distribution 22. 52-2) eee. see ee 26
varicolor,; pupa. =. bs hs s2se sds acetic eee bee DeReee 25
varipennis; biting habits, distribution<( 252.222 = seceee. aan eee 26
websteri,. habitats oa..4 Yoo eee oe ance me eta ts ape eens 27
wheeleri, habits, distribution. . — 28
Chaitophorus populicola on cottonwood, stisudance boy poner cinereoru ane 73
Chalcidid parasite of Apion prociive-= V2_-= Soe ieey se neil aii a ee ee 3l
Cherry laurel, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..........-------+++-++-- 51
Chinaberry. (See Melia azedarach.)
Chinch bug; burning in:control. 23-502 92. 22. 35. 5c eee eee eee 14
Chittenden, F. H., paper, ‘‘An Injurious North American Species of Apion,
with Notes on Related Forms” .......-.......--- 29-32
‘Insects Injurious to the Loco Weeds” ........----- 33-42
Chrysopa carried away from aphis-infested cucurbit plants by Formica cine-
NCOTUPLDGTDIS. 6.5 on 5 Are uO oe Uo re re pee ener a 74
Citrus, food plants of Aleyrodes howendi eb ostbeeie tid 4 cost alee sees oar tees aoe 70
Cleonus quadrilineatus, injurious to loco weeds, general account....-. afi nlp es 37-38
Clover; bur; food: plant. of Aphis medicaginis..25. os. snes -ie-1= 2 ee eee 40
food plant of Agromyza enewentris.. {oa toseee = bee pe a ee 41
A phig Medica guns: 66. vinden eee eae ee eee 40
hay worm. (See Hypsopygia costalis.)
Cocklebur, food plant of Baris transversa 2.2. 2 oeaeeh spec ee ee 39
HMucesta nolat@a 22a aa eo 3. ag ee ae eer 39
Coffee bean. (See Cassia.)
weevil. (See Arecerus fasciculatus.)
Coleophora: caryxfoliellass2t 522226 os a2 aos aS ae ee 79-86
adult, descriptionc 4...) ceesed: tiecekine i erage 82
habitesuecesweds pdontshiak che alee ee, aero eae 83
_ bibliograph ye. us 20244 gacGek Lhe ea eee eee 86

control recommendations=s524.46 eee eee Eee 86

INDEX. 91

Page
Coleophora caryzfoliella, Geaemipiometrc seers tote Ge 2 se Es RC 82-83
SIMU UIOnee Ay 2s sth Sos Die ds eS oe 80-81
EO Wl 1210) ea erg NS 5 79-80
CO tania teeta = ni eater, Ae ne) ere 2 >. ee 82
idod plants)... 2.252.522 Toe SE Be 900 0 ol ee 81
MADMIN ees ere st AT Ss, SUR TtE) EA Pee Sey ae ee 83-85
S| CAMEO lhe. 6 | © gal aCe eee 22). fc, RM Gta 81-82
amtroduetion:.--.--52-..--:- Rd oS SS 1 See eed 79
larva; esemp mons tt. eee tea pest bob! be 83
Heise ed. SA ee es eas ie a> SL 84
larval cases, description ..................,.....- Ree 83
pupa, -deserptions.- 2/5 6% 2 (osteo fed st RAC 83
pupatiaslanye habits 326-2 2..05 Sas os ace sinain eee 85
TECCNU MECOTOS s 3 I-05<2M. oh teeee aa Be tase SR scrs errs Bes 80
Reanonalshishoryes:: 4. gis Sse bela Shee 85-86
ierennencila Ob Ap plorcse. Here Ai eevee eI ioe awa b a tee 79
rufoluteella, bibliographic reference.............---.....-- eee: 86
= Coleophora’ caryayfoliellan:.. 2. 2222)... 22 S03 ead tan 79
Conchuela. (See Pentatoma ligata.)
an 2000. plant at Aracerus fasciculatis ii. s. S50h 2 SL le ie kA 61-63
EGER MOULIN Eee er ee Aa ens Seep oy oN ee eres 39
DESEO LG TCT sre ee ene ET OE POE OE pete Eka) Se Re pF 8
Cornus sp. (See Dogwood.)
Cotton aphis. (See Aphis gossypii.)
bolls, dry, decayed, food of Arecerus fasciculatus.................22--- 64
boll weevil. (See Boll weevil.)
damage by Pentatoma ligata in Texas in 1905.............. PS CEN 6
previous to'l905.-. 2.2... 222. ee 2-3
food: plant.of Aphis.medieagiius. -% 2.0 822s feed cs. Seed yee ees 40
GoblOnaplineenee res 22 ck Sale hie s 2 Ok ae he AN
REECE MOTORS ta see UR oto ke a 39
Pentabomin ligah@.. ./ es eke ak oR. Oe. Le Uk RED 6
injury by Armadillidium vulgare.. PEST ee eh ete Te 16
leaves fed upon by Ne ae PRUMORURUE 28S SE TE OSE LCUS BS 22
Porc leviss: i222 os oes? BME IRE | See 21
Cottonwood, food plant of Chaitophorus populicola..................-..----2--- 7
Cowpea, food plant of Alydus eurinus........-......---- LSD Ree ee rea ee 41
ARIS OCEICAGINIB Se! 123 Poo 51 4. Fe ee ee ee 40
Nevara filaris...2..:.... elie echt SOR 2 Soa, eae eee 8
Cracca virginiana, food plant of Apion segnipes..............-...-----+-+----- 31
BPUCNUE OOSOVEEUB 25.5. oS = a os ee 41
Crinums, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis......................--.--- 51
Crotons, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis ...................--- 43, 44-45, 51
Crow, enemy of pentatomid bugs... | iat. I es COE Sk eee eee ba) ces 11
Cucumbers, injury by Armuadillidiiir: balljerd Sele MU SES otis take ALT Oe 16
@ueurpits, food plants of Aphis gossypii... --. 22. ce ee eee eee 73
Men MPCHIMOR ENAENEE = 7 2 cys. S20 oe. on 2 Se Jol ee Sek 24-25
UASCUATUS MOCHUIOH GLAST Vessco ec ack sso. ts oe eee ec ls ee ee sane ee 24-25
Dahlias, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis....................-.--.---- 51
Prasycoris Impmnilie taken on loco weeds!.2--..22.052../2..0..05-2-.2.0. 020008 41
Date palm, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................-...-.-.--- 51

palms, injury by Armadillidium vulgare.........:.....2....----..0.008. 16

.

92 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX,

Page
Deitocephalus fleculosus taken on loco weeds.........----------- Ji etree 41
Dendrobium, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis...........-.----------- 51
Desmodium. (See Meibomia. )
Pisease transmission, possible by sowbuge:...-2---.....--- eee ne ee eee 15,22
Dogwood, doubtful food plant of Coleophora caryx, es Fist Scio ae ee ae 81
food plant of Apion herculanum.. art : 32
Eciton cecum, nests containing larvee and coer or cence Pra Pa
Eel-worms. (See Nematodes.)
Eucharis, food plants of Heliothrips hxmorrhoidalis.........---------- Pee 51
Eurytoma tylodermatis, parasite of Apion segnipes.....------+----+----+--+---+-- 31
Arecerus fasciCulatuse- seem ==: Eee ues 64
boll weensls sate Ae Se SS eee 64
Tyloderma, foueolatumissioe. ..- 2222 ee 3)
Euzesta notata on loco weed, general account... cL ee cc ai See
Excrement, human, Ceratopogon griseus reared few eout Rapa fal ee ee Di
mutabilis reared therefrom..........-.------- 27
Euzesta notata reared therefrom-:.....-.:-:22.-.--.:---.- 39
False-indigo gall-moth. (See Walshia amorphella.)
Farm practices of little avail against conchuela in western Texas. ...--.-.----- 11-12
Ferns, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.......--------------+--------+-- 51
Ficus, food plants of Heliothrips heemorr AOVAGTIS, 255. CUBES SEE aes eA ee ene 51
Fire. (See Burning.)
Plour eaten by Armadillidium wilgare....<..--.-<2--2-- 2 4-mee ee Peas eee 17
Flowers, cultivated, injury by Armadillidium vulgare......--.--------------- 16
Flower seed subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare.......-.----------+--- 16
Forage plants, injury by Apion grisewm....---.-----------------------+--+--- 29
Wormica cinercorujivarbis.....5. 0 ae ser oe Soe sae eee ee eee 73-78
attendance Omiaphides. 22 2 - ikem ~ see eee 73-74
injurious habits......o-cassanevee-sieet-— eee eee 73-74
introduction. 2:2/.4..s)5 <5. eee ee eee eee eee 73
potassium cyanide as remedy, experiments.....--...- 74-78
Fruits, dried, food of Arxcerus fasciculatus....:..-----+--+---+---------------- 64
Fuchsia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.......--.------------------- 51
Fumigation against woolly white-fly.....--..--.-----------+--+------+--++-- 71
experiments against greenhouse thrips...........----------------- 52-06
of peach trees against conchuela and pied ie seclts tows. Rees 14
treatments recommended against greenhouse thrips............--- 57-58
Fungous growths, food of Armadillidiwm vulgare...---------+--+-----------+--- 17
Fungus gnats. (See Mycetophilide.)
growing on honeydew excreted by Aleyrodes howardi.....-..--------- 68
Fungus, red. (See Aschersonia aleyrodis.)
yellow white-fly. (See Aschersonia flavocitrina.)
Gall, hymenopterous, on Aragallus lambertt....--.----+---+-+--------+---+----+ 41
moth, false-indigo. (See Walshia amorphella.)
Garden vegetables, damage by Pentatoma ligata in 1905......-..------------- 7-8
protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests.... 14
Geocoris griseus taken on loco weeds. ....-.-----------+-++--++-+225--225-08ee 4l
Glycyrrhiza lepidota, food plant of Aphis medicaginis....------------+--+++++-++: 40

Gnats, biting. (See Ceratopogon spp.)
fungus. (See Mycetophilide.)
Goat’srue. (See Cracca virginiana.)
Grain bug. (See Pentatoma sayi.)
stored, food of Pyratis farinalis...- 2. \c.2 Sols See eee 40

INDEX. 93

Page

Grape, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............-.....-----2---+-- 51

Grapes, damage by Pentatoma ligata in 1905...............22.2..0.22-20000-- fi

protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests................- 14

Grasses, probable food plants of Philenus bilineatus...................---.---- 41

Pree Caton yO AnMmAaavin Uulgares a. Skene. ecole. wad al. Pore ek 18-19

Grasshoppers and other Orthoptera on loco weed, Aragallus lamberti........... 42

Greenhouses, infestation by Sciara inconstans.................2-2-22-2-22-0--- 36-37

Slava; 100. plant of Aleyrodes howardt.... >... --- <0) 220s sos ve seeds ee 70

Gymnosoma fuliginosa, parasite of Pentatoma ligata..............---.--------- 11

Hadronema militaris on Amaranthus and beets...-......-...-.-----.+-------- 41

taken on loco weeds. . : a ee 41

Hand picking against conchuela, ee bas: jand elie pena. oo sees ages 13, 14

Pye ClOVGEs LOO OL EYTAltIS fayUOlss 2.2. 2 8s YES Se osc ss oe se ec ee bs 40

Heliothrips adonidum, bibliographic reference. ............-----2----2------- 58

EMOTINOUATLIS. 2/0 Soe Vs es SERRE PS SEE Be 43-60

adwltdeseniptiom sys Ae sia. os es Se ws 46-47

apie Seve Bas PETE OLN a eS 48-49

bibliographies ck SEU eee tS: 2, ot A eee

Eqncro ar ineialre se | SeS No oe) he te 52-58

mena? Wie BUS lh ie cee) aM SEG 52

GREETS MMe tA Me sah tie Ce tl oe 46-48

distribmtions. ests usar: 0A) MOLAR See eres 45-46

COP ESErIp CONS sso Mi oes ee SU Sek op) ed 47

71075 Wo]: eee aL eg SE UA MEE Se EPG Oe 51

Pon eTaAMONss: 2422. ee Sach) Mae Ce he 52

AONE Sex <hs ae La SIP ES hs Se ee 48-51

BG EOM ys te 5 ATS ork Be ee Lhe ita at. 2 43-44

injury, nature andextent..202/..-.22-.2....5..~..) 44245

TEOROIGTIONS, 6 MICE 21S, Se MMESUES, ok wee ined 43

farce, abiiseees = 30. t cee Seo ie Pte SS 49-50

lanvay first stagemdescription: 52. i205. liv... 47

second stage, description..........-...--...-. 47

ibcrectenms be eke Nir AT ee RS A oa Sema 51

bistorysass 2222 be. oul il SAR La ee ae

LOE CViiyeeoe ee ees te d= TS 2 aa Be 51

Haliiralionemiess i iS 2 eis sh es es ee 52

nymph, full-grown, or pupa, description. .....2-.... 48

young, or prepupa, description............ 47-48

ONTOS yh ror eee ohare oor orer ie s/o ee 45

prepupasdeseniptionte ©. a. ...-.5.- 222525. --25e- 47-48

Ieittane.< 5 ee Se oh 2S a eee 50

pupa ys description 3: es SS we Stee 48

aD iss 5 ee ante). Se 2 URS et dL

TEGOTAAs TECOMbee oe ent ees eh f4

remedies: /Omperiments: 2. bi. aves lec ellie 52-57

Suman ye es te je ee 57

recommended © 32° 2. 2.05.00 22220.6.2... 5578

Hickory, food plant of Coleophora caryxfoliella. . tee wa inna 49, S051
Hippodamia convergens carried away from aphis: snfeated uplas ants iby Formica

CNSTEMNEON Oa eee S Se. 06. oo sere 74

enemy of Aphis medicaginis...........-.--------s+-- 40

Honeysuckle, food of Armadillidium vulgare...-................-022-++++----. 18-19

94 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.
Page
Hopperdozer for use against conchuela and grain-bug..........-...-.-------- 12-13
Horsechestnut. (See Zsculus hippocastanum.)
’ Hosackia glabra. (See Lotus glabra.)
Hothouse vegetables, injury by Armadillidium vulgare. .........-.-.-.------- 16
Hydrocyanic-acid gas against greenhouse thrips..............-....--..--.----- 56,58
Hy psopygia.costalis breeding in clover hay... ..-.2.255i00.22222¢ seek tse ee 40
Indigo, false. (See Amorpha fruticosa.)
Insects. injurious .to,loco weedsi.. icc 9-6... eee See Ae eee ee 33-42
Jarring against conchuela and related pests: -425 5) ce ae ee 14
Kerosene against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare..........----....----+----5- 18
emulsion against conchuela, grain-bug, and related pests..........-- 13, 14
greenhousesthripshs tase: oe a eee ae es 58
sowbug Armadillidium vulgare..... 0. ..222--25+--- 18
Kola, food plant of Heltothrips hemorrhoidaliss 2.5.32 3-s0sse epee eae 51
Ladybird, convergent. (See Hippodamia convergens.)
Lxlaps macropilis, enemy of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis...........------------ 52
Lelia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhowdalisicces...0- 222-0 (se Lecce eae eee 51
Laurel, cherry. (See Cherry laurel.)
Laurestina, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........----.---------+-- 51
Lefortia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-.-.---+---+-+++---+-- 51
Legume, wild, climbing, food plant of Apion patruele........-.-.....-.------- 31
Lettuce subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare............-.--2+------- 16
Liliaceous plants, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........--.-------- 51
Lime-sulphur mixture against pecan cigar case-bearer ........-..- oct Geese 86

Loco fly, yellow. (See Tritoxa incurva.)
purple (see also Astragalus mollissimus).
food plant ofS ciara wn constans) 2 =e ean a ee ee 36
root-maggot. (See Pegomya lupini.)
weeds (see also Astragalus molissimus and Aragallus lamberti).
insect enemless: 2-24 ei ey cues ec va a at se 33-42
white. (See Aragallus lamberii.)
weevil, four-lined. (See Cleonus quadrilineatus.)
woolly. (See Loco, purple, and Astragalus mollissimus. )

ioeust, food: plant; ot Apioninigrum ia. 0.5) 32 Joe ee Eee ee 31
London purple against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare.......-.----- aneterans Dyealteys 22
Lotus glabra: tood plant.of Amonveribnicolle asset see ee een ee 31
Lupinus alba; food plant of Regomya tu punt oii ees boaters ee 36
arborea, food plant.et Amon prochivescsc) 50 2 ti es eee Dep ERE 31
Pegomuya aipuiti. 8 2 eee lae ee Siete ae ere eae 36

Walshiqiamonphallia. sacral yee hie din oe tesrs 35

Lycena acmon. (See Rusticus acmon.)
Mangifera indica. (See Mango.)

Mango, food plant of Aleyrodes:howardt. 2 20.5 oceans) jas ie ate ee ee 70
Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis).2% Ve scs9k-* Jseci see eeeke oe 44,51

Manure, cow, Ceratopogon specularis reared therefrom..........-..-.--.------- 27
horse, Ceratopogon specularis reared therefrom..........-.------------ 27

Maples, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis........-...--..-.----+--+----- 51
Marcintacia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..........-.--------+--+-+- 51

Marsh, H. O., paper, ‘‘ Notes on a Colorado Ant (Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel)’ 73-78

Meal snout-moth. (See Pyralis farinalis.)

Meibomia, food plant of A pion.xznetpenne: <2 2.4.3. -- 236s sseees- 32= eee eee Sl
grandiflora, food plant of Apion decoloratum........--------------- 31
marylandica, food plant of Apion turbulentum......-.-.-.----+------ 31

INDEX. 95

Page
Meibomia paniculata, food plant of Apion decoloratum...........------.------ 31
Melanoplusiepp. on Aragallus lamberti./.4.- 222. --2 2-2-0222 bee stds eee ee 42
Melia azedarach, food plant of Arxcerus fasciculatus........-......2222222-08-- 63-64
Melilotus italica, food plant of Aphis medicaginis...............--------------- 40
Melon aphis. (See Aphis gossypii.) 7
Mennuite 1000 pian OF Pentatoma liguta! 2. 2)...02- 2 sie e nb ilel. ete eee 8
Metoponorthus pruinosus, life history and habits, notes..............2......-- 22
Midge, fickle. (See Sciara inconstans.)
Milo maize, damage by Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi in 1905........-.....-..-- 5-6
food plant Ol Pentaromia Sats oo ic os Uo e sero eee owes ee 2
protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests............ 14
Morrill, A. W., paper, ‘‘The Mexican Conchuela in Western Texas in 1905
EEG PEGS TITIES [TILE SER) Mec BO Scien a aah te 1-14
Mushrooms, injury by Armadillidwim vulgare .....2-..-..--2--0-- 02 eee 16
Mustard subject to attacks by Armadillidiwm vulgare..........--..------------ 16
Menccopiiiicee, la bitd/ OL IAMilyy ost YL Bt. eo. oe ee ee ete Se see 36
Want jerus taken on loco weeds: ...... 502.2855. S202 ee. ee MAGN eae at 41
Nematodes, confusion of larvee of Sciara inconstans therewith............-...- 37
Nezara hilaris, damage to cowpea vines and tomatoes...........-.-..---------- 8
Nico-fume liquid against greenhouse thrips..............-.------------------ 55
paper apainet ereenhouse thrips: =o. 502 24222. .52255.. 5225-552. 5 52-53
Nicotine liquids for spraying against greenhouse thrips.............---..------ 57-58
papers for fumigation against greenhouse thrips................--.---- 57
tian plant Of Pentatoma S0yts... 2222222 s- 255s ve pose tees oe eae ene eee 2
Pinicia eens. Diving NAbiis, 'GIstribUtION . <. 5.0.) 2 <<. 26.2. <iycc eee os nase oes oe 28
MEME SIRI GM AT AGIENUS UOMUDETE 3c 2ncw eo cain'n » hin 3 = sms = snes o vee aecdene es 42
Onion fly, black. (See Tritora flexa.)
PEREIBPNAELGOL “EL ECRUL MOLALEG Sse Oe ee PO ee as es ne ee 39
COME LCL Pen Ret bet 2S oa eas Ae ene Se SS races Jae 38-39
Ripe IOMAEUIIUGI AAG IGMNOCTIL. .. 2c sron'e x occ sc esse ce ie sail wdg eee eae 42
Orange, Aleyrodes howardia new enemy in Florida ............-.....---.-.--- 65-71
Osige,orange, food plant of Musesia notata.........-..2.025----25--220--ceseee 39
Pasi, foud plant of Anhis menmaguvts a. 7 eee ke ee ee 40
Palmetto, injury by Armadillidium vulgare...........-....--- 2-220 ee eee e cece 16
Palms, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............--------+-++-+++++ 51
Pancratium, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................-.-.----- 51
Parabacilius coloradus on Aragailus lambertt....2....-..202 62.2 e senna pane scece 42
EMME R NEPS GIO toere ait 2 a |e cle ee Be ee de ile te oe 65
Paris green against sowbug Armadillidiwm vulgare. .....-....--.---------- 17, 18, 21
and lime against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare ...........----.-- 18
Peaches, damage by Peniatoma ligata in 1905. ...........--. 2.222 - eee eens 6-7
protection against attacks of conchuela and related pests... ........ 14
Beas, damage by: Peniatoma ligata in 1905. . ..... -:- 2. ~~. 2 oe ae ace an nes 7-8
stood planf.ob Agromiyca Pervenwriss <2 5 2 2 ene ~ won neo ~ ne dn a a's 41
SPILT AGE RECT ESS chase SL Paci Red «ie ake = ww ian. 7-8
SOU aie A aero n acs ee wake ota ds ines ck Gee 2
myiry by Armcdauiidiem, Wulgare. 22 oo 3S s = e oen esc wine ances a men sees 16
Pecan budworn. (See Proteopteryx deludana.)
cigar case-bearer. (See Coleophora caryxfoliella.)
food plant of Coleophora caryxfoliella.. .. 2.222. ..--000-5e02en ene ne- 79-86
Pediculoides, enemy of Arexcerus fasciculatus................----+----------- 64
Pegomya lupini injurious to loco weed, general account........-....-...--..- 35-36

Pellea hastata, food of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..................---2---+--- 51

MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX,

Page

Peppers, food plants of Pentatomaligaia.. 222. o ee oe oe eee ae ie ee 8

Persea gratissima, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis ...--..--.-------+--- 51

Persimmon Psylla. (See Psylla, persimmon.)

Pentatoma ligata .b- e eiie tte me Nee ee ae og ee meetin ee 1-14
an- associated species...3 mA 5 se eee ee cee 2
and P. sayi, remedies when crops other than alfalfa are at-

PACING o.oo oe ace oe ae a oe he a 14

control methods. 22252. 2: ste Jo) nea ee eniee ee eeee 11-14

damage:to crops yin, L905. 22.5 =. eee ee Mae Sy es ee 3-8

PTLEVIOUS tO 90D - ni eee ee eee 2-3

COO TOA A SLOSS ee ee 9-10

food qplam tas... ois cise CER res a at eet ay eve 3-8

host of Telenomus ashmeadi en. 25 3 Seco yee ae ene 10

IMtrodUChHON,. 42 jo siSe wae ae. Shee alae Seg it oe er 1

ma hural enemies! Gln oe see et ne eee ieee 9-11

predaceous enemies!) sie 38 ee oe Bone cere REE certs 2 ue

preventive and protective measures. ....-.=..--..-------5-- 13-14

Beasonalsiistory, aon. aie oo fs eet en Soe Seneae ee 8-9

tachinid! parasites.) 200 oy ho nt. ac eels cteton ce eee A

sayi, association with Pentatoma ligata in injury to crops. ....------ 2

Control. measunes = ae ye ope wien cee acorns (en ee eee aa 12-14

dame to valfalta tm VOD 2 6 2 case tose a ce cad oes An ue ee 3-5

PISVAIGUE LO OOD ashe ae ee ec eel eee 3

milo maizedn L90b 4 ee se he eee eee ee 6

seasonal history 2 =.4).5./5¢ =. os-5 pyc eee eee ee eee 8-9

Phalenopsis, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis........-----------+---- 51
Phaseolus pauciflora. (See Strophostyles pauciflora.)

polystachyus (perennis), food plant of Apion griseum....------------ 29

revusus-1000 plant, Ol Apion GmscuUm... ic = ne aa lee ee 29

wright, food plant of Apion grisewim. oon een ame ee Sees 29

Philenus bilimeatus taken.on-loco weeds. a.) (222 ook se sence cee en eee 41

Phlox, food plant of Heliothrips heemorrhoidauis.°. 00) oc eee eee 51

Pierce, W. Dwight, paper, ‘‘Notes on the Economic Importance of Sowbugs”.. 14-22

**Pill-bug.”’ (See Armadillidium vulgare.)

Pink, food plant.of Hehothrips hamorrhoidalis. 7-5. << 5. ge ae 51

Plant-lice. (See Aphides.)

Porcellio levis, lite history and habits, notes .~ 22:2. 02. 22st 222. ee eee 21-22

Pemedies Hes es hee ree ee ek cen eee eee siete eine a 22

Potassium cyanide solution against Formica cinereorujibarbis........--------- 74-78

Potatoes eaten by ‘Armadillidwm wulgore.. 25) ee ee Fe

Potted plants subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare. .........--------- 16

Pratt, F. C., paper, ‘‘ Notes on ‘Punkies’ (Ceratopogon spp.)” ...-..---------- 23-28

Pronocyphon discovdeus, location of larvae. 2 >.< = 28. eee = he cee oe 24-25

Prodenia ornithogalliet2. 2220: NS Peo oo ese eee oe oe ee = eee ee 17

Proteopteryx deludana, spraying therefor will destroy pecan cigar case-bearer. . - 86

Prunus americana, doubtful food plant of Co oleophora rufoluteella (caryxfoliella).. 80, 81

Jeena VEN ores cyteonse(e) \aruhal Ata Ropes teense eee Nt ios I Sc a emo eo 68

‘‘Punkies.’’ (See Ceratopogon spp.)

Pyralis farinalis on Astragalus mollissumus”. -..- 22. 2202-25 esse oo nee ne 40

Pyrethrum against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare .........----------+2++0:- 17,18

fumigation therewith against conchuela on peach trees. ......--- 14

Radishes eaten.by Armadilthdium vulgare. 2.0. 2222 ee eae el 16, 17

Rain, factor in control of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis - - -..-----...------------ 52

INDEX. 97

Page.
Reduviolus ferus, carried away from aphis-infested cucurbit plants by Formica
UNIPIIIR HIM tS Roe aria eet aaetined eh hes ath iS a a winicik G oesd eileen s 4 25's - 74
Regeneration of parts in Armadillidium vulgare... .........----.2.-2+--+---- 21
Repellents against sowbug Armadillidiwm vulgare ............-..--+++------- 18
Rhyssalus trilineatus, parasite of Colephora caryxfoliella.............-.2---..-- 80
Robinia viscosa, food plant of Aphis medicaginis.......--- 22... 002-022 eeee ee 40
Root fly, spotted. (See Huxesta notata.)
maggot, loco. (See Pegomya lupini.)
Ross, injury by Armradiiidwm vulgare... -....... 12,22 ede Me she Pe 20. Soe tees. 16
leaf insecticide, fumigation against greenhouse thrips.................. 55
spraying against greenhouse thrips. /....--....-......- 56
Russell. H. M., paper, ‘‘The Greenhouse Thrips (Heliothrips hxemorrhoidalis
SOHCHO) "2 ec <. 4 ape! gee Re yay hs Se 43-60
“The Pecan Cigar Case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella
Clem?) esa ate oe, opps aeaete ae emt rom true aS th 79-86
deusticus acmon on Astragalus mollissimus... 22-2) -0s% sascece see avsee veel y. 42
Sciara inconstans injurious to purple loco, general account... ............... 36-37
percenmp tonigtoes against conchuela.\.. 2 22s. 4 }5 hes he yeed. eerie) eu: 14
Sheepberry. (See Viburnum lentago.)
Snout-moth, meal. (See Pyralis farinalis.)
Roapsuds against preenhouse thrips: .....- 22... 2.0S0sc tee lee eee eee eel 43
Solanum ytood plant ofvhiresta WOldid. ©... 2.) ese oes bg donne nee won eeene 39
PPR CUMMOMLLC ME DOnUAMC EG: 8S: Se 5cie 22) hale as ao caves aos gicteraisien aoe Gale ke 15=22
Conclusions -s-\ 2 42. ot Soe tse eg eis ae 22
DUOMO AnGrINTOOrPEMedtes. 2 tne s koe .s 5.4 Sh askin So tab oh ees 22
Sprayine sealst woolly whitecfly- 2. 0.b. 2221 oe Sen cece eee eae tne 71
greenhouse thrips, experments:..-.2-2.2 0.022.225.0222 se 56-57
treatment recommended ................ 58
Sanat seo pliant ar Peniatame logit... 6.1.) 2262.2 ds. bec wh scene ees: 8
Sienamma fulvum aquia, nest containing Ceratopogon stenammatis............ 27
Sriphrosoma. atrata taken om) loco weeds? - 222-222... 256.2522. ee eiee esas eee 4]
Stored products, dry vegetable, food of Arzxcerus fasciculatus...............- 64
Strophostyles pauciflora, food plant of Apion fraternum (=griseum)............ 30
parma OL Armadilidium vulgare. 20-222 de 3 s- meen sean Sete a ok ace 17
Renn GOP IinGh, Mm CCRLO NOtRIMe 6 = 2 eS ae wh oeee ow Oe Pale Visas bigs 39
Syrphid larve preyed upon by Formica cinereorufibarbis.................. 74
Telenomus ashmeadi, parasite of Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi................. 10
Tephrosia virginiana. (See Cracca virginiana.)
meorsestuce torrens, biting habits, GistMbuiiom. . 2.04.3. 2.020525 202 ee eo cee 28

Thrips adonidum. (See Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.)
greenhouse. See Leliothrips hxmorrhoidalis. )
Tick, cattle. (See Boophilus annulatus.)
_ eggs eaten by Armadillidium-vulgare.........-.2.-.2.22-2022 eee eee eee 17
MENG RONBIULUS PUUINOSUS. 2-0 nae es. Se Soe ce fue ew ce ek Ses 22
Porcellio levis... ROP RRS 3 rig ee 22
trefoil, common. (See ieabomnna. [Deemodiem}. ‘i

Toads, enemies of pentatomid bugs.......... Bere ee 11
Tobacco stems, fumigation therewith aeamiek cone chas ee on peac coh trees ee I4
Tomatoes. damage by Armadillidium vulgare..................2.000-0----00--- 16
DEE Tg NET Pe a Oe RE DS AERO ak 8

Pentatoma ligata in 1905 Ie Calne ts ot ook Sie 2 ce eee oh 7-8

sereenine apainst conchuelas...........--.---.--<s-20. A ee 14

98 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Tritoxa flex on- onionsts | fre 0 Pe Pe eee St SSE ane een 39
incurva on Aragallus lamberti, general account...........-.-.--------- 38
Tucker, E. S., paper, ‘‘New Breeding Records of the Coffee-bean Weevil (Are-
cerus Jasciculatus De-Geer) coe) 222502 ee aoe eee 61-64
Tyloderma foveolatum, host of Eurytoma tylodermatis..............+++----++-+--- 31
Verbena, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis............--.-+-+-++------- 51
Viburnum acerifolium, food plant of Apion herculanum.......-...--..--------- 32
food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............-.----------- 51
lentago, food plant of Apion herculanum..:.....-..-.------+--++---+- 32
Vines, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis...........-....--.-+-++------- 51
Walnut, food plant of Coleophora caryxfoliella...........:.....--+------++----- 81
Walshia amorphella, injurious to loco weed, general account ......-.-..--...-- 34-35
Water\spray against.greenhouse-thrips..-..- . 2.2222. lS 22. oct eee 57, 58
Weather conditions, effect on sowbug Armadillidium vulgare.......:...----+-- 19
Weeds, food of Armadillidium vulgare...........--------+--+---------- aps Silas 18
Weevil, coffee-bean. (See Arecerus fasciculatus.)
Wheat, food plant of Pentatoma'sayn. V4ENE 22200 STS es a eee 2

White-fly, citrus. (See Aleyrodes citrt.)
spotted-wing. (See Aleyrodes nubifera. )
woolly. (See Aleyrodes howardi.)
Wicca, food-plant of Pentatoma-ligata..... 1.2 2 DSS Ree as See es 8

wa. & pee See. 24. 4
ae} wT ae
Ak Y es

rae Le he Oe
SF LES DAS 4s

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

A BUREAU OF. ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN NO, 64.

*

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

- SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK

OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

I, THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905,

By A. W. MORRILL, Special Field Agent.
Il, NOTES ON THE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS,
By W. DWIGHT PIERCE, Special Field Agent.
IIL NOTES ON “PUNKTES.”
: By F. C. PRATT, Special Field Agent.
TV, AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF APION,
WITH NOTES ON RELATED FORMS,
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
VY. INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS,
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
VI. THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.
By H.M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.
VIL NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL,
By E.S. TUCKER, Special Field Agent.
VU. THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY: A NEW ENEMY OF THE
FLORIDA ORANGE,

By E. A. BACK, Agent and Expert.

IX, NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT,

By H. O. MARSH, Agent and Expert.

X. THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER,

By H. M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.

y
A3A FAIS
WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE,
1914;

Faw) (oe

Bo ARE Ae
OVS Nhe

Tose
(VO TERR ke Rea ty
Tag

bes DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN NO. 64.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

|. THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905,
By A. W. MORRILL, Special Field Agent.
Il. NOTES ON THE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS.
By W. DWIGHT PIERCE, Special Field Agent.
111. NOTES ON “PUNKIES.”
By F.C. PRATT, Special Field Agent.
IV. AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF APION,
WITH NOTES ON RELATED FORMS,
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
V. INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS.
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
VI. THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.
By H. M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.
VIL. NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL,
By E. 8S. TUCKER, Special Field Agent.
VIL. THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY: A NEW -ENEMY OF THE
FLORIDA ORANGE,
By E. A. BACK, Agent and Expert.
IX. NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT.

By H. O. MARSH, Agent and Expert.

X. THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER,

By H. M. RUSSELL, Agent and Expert.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
19L1.

BUREAU OF ENTO MOLOG Y.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
C. L. Maruart, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R.S. Currron, Executive Assistant.
Cuas. J. Gruss, Chief Clerk.

F. H. Currrenven, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
A. D. Hopxiys, in charge of forest insect investigations.
W. D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.
F. M. Wesster, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.
A. L. QuaintTance, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.
E. F. Pumures, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Roaers, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.

Roa P. Currie, in charge of editorial work.

Mase Coucorp, librarian.

II

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
Bureau oF EnToMoLoey,
Washington, D. C., November 30, 1910.

Str: I have the honor to transmit herewith ten papers on miscella-
neous insects for publication as Bulletin No. 64 and as No. IX of the
series of bulletins entitled ‘‘Some Miscellaneous Results of the Work
of the Bureau of Entomology.” These papers, which were issued
separately during 1907, 1908, 1909, and 1910, are as follows: The
Mexican Conchuela in Western Texas in 1905, by A. W. Morrill;
Notes on the Economic Importance of Sowbugs, by W. Dwight Pierce;
Notes on ‘‘Punkies,”’ by F. C. Pratt; An Injurious North American
Species of Apion, with Notes on Related Forms, by F. H. Chittenden;
Insects Injurious to the Loco Weeds, by F. H. Chittenden; The
Greenhouse Thrips, by H. M. Russell; New Breeding Records of the
Coffee-bean Weevil, by E.S. Tucker; The Woolly White-fly, by E. A.
Back; Notes on a Colorado Ant, by H. O. Marsh; the Pecan Cigar
Case-bearer, by H. M. Russell.

Respectfully, L. O. Howarp,
Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
Hon. James WILSON,

Secretary of Agriculture.
rit

Pe bene ak ; | ee

Z f - Ni #, Me hin 5 WE Nis Arh tl ts ™ ae

OS, ab Lihls ag whan ETON ee OEE maa

i a yy Lae ; Pe ae Ae «tilt hi aay : une eK, (bie f
Pipien fle Coun coke bhai start it

wi Me a teh
ud OE, Pe me ae Le aa

Katee ae

ysl N et eal

PREFACHE.

The present publication comprises ten articles previously pub-
lished separately as parts and now brought together to form the
complete bulletin, which is No. IX of the series entitled ‘‘Some
Miscellaneous Results of the Work of the Bureau of Entomology.”
The previous bulletins of this series are Nos. 7, 10, 18, 22, 30, 38, 44,
and 54. The articles of the present bulletin relate to species which,
although economically important, do not properly come under the
scope of any of the other bulletins thus far ‘published in parts, viz,
those relating to forest insects, the cotton boll weevil and related
and associated insects, truck-crop insects, deciduous fruit insects,
cereal and forage insects, and apiculture. The investigations the
results of which are here published were, however, conducted coin-
cidently with the various projects of several branches of the Bureau,
including those dealing with some of the groups of insects men-
tioned above.

The first paper treats of the Mexican conchuela, a species inves-
tigated in Mexico in 1904, at which time it had not yet been reported
to entomologists as of economic importance in the United States.
It was predicted at that time that should the pest become abundant
in Texas it would cause considerable damage to crops. The results
of investigations in Texas in 1905 confirmed the prophecies of 1904.

Part IL presents economic notes on three common species of sow-
bugs encountered during field-crop investigations in Texas and other
parts of the South, while Part III, by F. C. Pratt, treats of the
biologies of the various biting flies belonging to the genus Ceratopogon,
known commonly as ‘‘ punkies.”’

Part IV treats of a small weevil (Apion griseum Sm.) injurious to
beans in Texas and New Mexico and includes biologic notes on a
number of related forms.

Part V considers a number of the more important insects which
feed upon the loco weeds. This investigation was undertaken in
cooperation with the loco-weed investigations of the Bureau of
Plant Industry, and as it was conclusively shown that insects of
several species were largely responsible for control of the plant on
prairies and grass lands a publication covering these insects was
deemed desirable.

="

VI MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Part VI considers the greenhouse thrips (eliothrips hemor-
rhoidalis Bouché), a species previously recorded as injurious to
a number of hothouse plants. This insect was found injuring mango,
crotons, and other plants on beds and in parks at Miami, Fla. The
results of a series of experiments for its control are given in this
number.

Part VII is largely supplemental to an article in Bulletin No. 8
of the Division of Entomology, giving a note on new food materials
for the coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus DeG.). This
insect was discovered working in chinaberries and cornstalks adja-
cent to cotton fields during an investigation of cotton insects.

A new and dangerous species of Aleyrodes attacking citrus fruits
is the subject of Part VIII. This species (Aleyrodes howardi Quaint.),
which occurs on several islands of the West Indies, including Cuba
and Porto Rico, has recently made its appearance in Florida. Present
indications are that this species will be controllable by the same
measures used for the citrus white fly, which it much resembles in
capacity for damage.

Part IX gives the results of experiments undertaken for the con-
trol of a species of ant (Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel), which fosters
the melon aphis in Colorado, protecting it largely from predaceous
enemies. The control of this ant may prove of great value as a
measure against the melon aphis.

Part X is a biologic account of a minor pecan pest, the pecan cigar
casebearer in the South, and includes suggestions for its control.

CON TE Nts

The Mexican conchuela (Pentatoma ligata Say) in western Texas in 1905,
A. W. Morrill. .

RATIBSESOC ACHMED OGCLES See ues e alee Soak SAE IS ae ar ua one kere cree
General agricultural conditions at Barstow, Tex.................--------
Damnce:to.crops mre wious tO 1900s 22 osoc cS -ccce 3s. tt be Sant die eee
rps amon eam ce oS san eA SCS ade es od eyes Age eee wee

AO eT AROCLOR Sete oct ctate cielo earns Heloes Scere yeh ees Cy eiE oe aeee See
Seasonal mistonyes.ssees sees: os se BO A ee a eer ae ge PL
INGUIN CHNOS ASE E235 fo ya af seid oboe os Sees Sues Bao Je Mere
MAT nO Ge OMe CHInOle 52 hos fm oeha bee Sees oe wade a ws aes Dee marge BEE
Notes on the economic importance of sowbugs..----------- . W. Dwight Pierce. .
RA MGUU IOI UUIGATE ALL: «cena 2 Secale ened Pelee secs antes aes oe eee
PSEC LMLONI SE PES AUST ak Sta Stree we Be eal SS, « Sear CeO en ae MSE iat ee

Nates on Punkies”(\Ceratopogon spp-)-.-.=-.--=2--2-+--++<<25 eC iPrattne
CELALE DOGO IDAOTCHPETUNIS a = (natin 02 2k SOS won 25 Ao ONS aes ee ae
Wiherepeciesios Ceritanoronm= Sse. 5 . say. Ets cs ees bet eRe veel og seack pee
Other blood-suckmoiC@hironomids==-- cs-e-. 4-25. - e cee ae e ee eee

An injurious North American species of Apion, with notes on related forms,

F. H. Chittenden. .
PAPAS OTUSEUNUISE or ewe the 2 ae oe eee ee IS ee ce ance eee es See
OT COLON SUAL) Ss aso ce cmte a Saree a eee eres She OCs Se ae ee ae eee
Notes on related forms...........-.- I ay ah NE nae ne A

Insects injurious to the loco weeds............-.....--.--- F. H. Chittenden. .
The false-indigo gall-moth ( Walshia amorphella Clem.)............--------
The loco root-maggot (Pegomya lupina Coq.).....-..---------------------
Ghedickle midge (Sctara mconstane Piteh) 2... 2. 2.2022 e sna a. case
The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevr.).....-.----------
mnasellow lace tly (Trioxa incurva LOOW.)s... J2eos-doe- ve u cae Soe
The spotted root fly (EHuzesta notata Wied.).............-...-.------------
The bur-clover aphis (Aphis medicaginis Koch)...........-.------------:
THE MeAMENOULIMOUN CL YTAUS JATINGiS LW.) osc ramet shee ere ee
Pine Duer teaInOO Pers; Cl@e.. 6.22 ..2- sss. 32 eee eae = ee eee eee
MISC EIMAMNCOUSMMBCGIBe = esos, <coc jemets ooo: xis oa, le es ee ee eee

Page.

a a)
anre oOWMoOowhd dW

bo bo
NO =

22

29
29
30
31
33
34
35
36
37
38
38
40
40
41
41

a The ten papers constituting this bulletin were issued in separate form on April 2,
1907 (Pts. I to III), January 14 and May 29, 1908 (Pts. 1V and V), August 4 and 5,
1909 (Pts. VI and VII), and May 7, October 17, and November 12, 1910 (Pts. VIII

to X).

vil

VIII MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page.

The greenhouse thrips ( Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis Bouché). . . -- H, M. Russell... 43
TL ISCOLY xin. SIRS see ee ee OL Ne een ee 43
Recent records s 35 o 2s ee ee cee ee te, See ot pel eg ts ere 4
Nature andvextentiobinjuniess= 2) see eee eee eee Dist 1 CS sass 44
Origin «and. distribution. = sean eG ten Selec ee 45
Deseription... 22s cota See as ce ee Se a ee ee 46
Habits of thetadulitice2: 3s: ssoe sissies Soe een ee ane hae eer 48
iMialoits: of thenlaryce sees ie ce es) eS en a eae a Ee 49
Habits ol:theyprepupa and: pupasets Soe oF ees tel ee ee ee eee 50
Boodplantem a6 oe as er eee eee eee Sn He ere eens te eee 51
Mifenistory: pens fae 20. Sho care ge etn ea te ee oe ce 51
Natiirel Control: 0475. Pathe ore ha eine 6 oe eae a 52
Ar iiticialiicomtroly- see sce oe se ose. Sa a ee eas eee aera 52
Bibliography. 22832 Golbe. tos SAO ee ID Se a 58

New breeding records of the coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus De Geer),
eS luekense 61

Nature, ofimmjury Wo .cormns a... 2 a0 eas a eS fe a I se eee 61
INotes/on literhistony ty COnMi ae «225 2.2 ssn ene Sa e eB eee 63
Occurrencennichinaberries-)parasitesas-----e-42-— ee ae ee 63
Habits mrceneraltescec asa Sohne sae nee ea oS ns, SEE tee ce 64
The woolly white-fly: A new enemy of the Florida orange (Aleyrodes howardi
mami cena hated ee ae sr Soom orale ici a Rep ee He A, Backs: 65
Iiajunyran dvextentolamiestationae sas ase me se ers eee ea ee ee 65
dite Histonyy oi e'o0 ss <ceeies cde ee eaise eras o's os oe nee ee cleaner ee 66
IBLE SOTHO O10) (ee ees SPN Ca Re ROCA rte AL Me alm eT CARE Ane tee See 68
oodvplamits 24.25. asets bo BP Sas Os ee 70
Distrib tions 44 2258/8 Hoa eles ee Oe oe ee ee 70
Naturalienemiess <4. .2\s.iysas sce = Sere ee eee 70
IRemedies< 22 osfes, S55c0 orion saan Sas ecioe | yan eee nee eee a
Notes on a Colorado ant (Formica ecinereorufibarbis Forel)... .--- H. O. Marsh. . 73
Injuriousshabitss.2 vsseens = Sees eee eee ree pitted, spec psa a men iS
Experiments with potassium cyanid as a remedy...............---------- 74
The pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryexfoliella Clem.)....H. M. Russell. . 79
Harly history 2so.ctsis5 34561 Seales He eank dee age Meee see ee eee eee ee 79
Recent records: 42. sean 2 ci ead seed Oat Ste ae ote eS See ae eee Cee 80
Disinibutions,. 444 seers ee ease eeeose » Soatie ee eee ene eee 80
Pood ‘plants. 2. \es.c 522005 ot eG tk eh ci eee See ee 81
Character OPinjuiryics sac hoe Ee ta > Sere eee eee ere ete eee 81
Desertptionis. 3.5. 252214 6s088 sae ee 82
Habits of thevadtilt..2254-2: 222 Se Poe Ee Eee ere eee 83
apace Of thevlarval.o. 2923 5a. Soe Jes ae Se eee ee eek See 84
HHabitsioithe pupatinedarvascss. assess noes tee oe eee ee - 85
Seasomalithishory 2.102. bes 52355204 eek on he een ee eee eee 85
Recommebndiitions.): 220.2 2s ee aes! Soe See Se ee ere ee 86
EAMONN oo PS eS ae ee Uae eee ee een 86

FEUUS TRATIONS.

PLATES.

PuateE I. Fig. 1.—Egg batch of Pentatoma ligata, showing hatched and un-

Fie.

hatched eggs. Fig. 2.—Ege batch of Pentatoma ligata parasitized
by Telenomus ashmeadi.........----------! po ac 5 SE CE ccs 82

TE. Work of Armadilidium vulgare on cotton. -...----2.----+s----+---
III. Work of the coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus) in cornstalks.
IV. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance) on orange.

Fig. 1.—Moderate infestation of leaf, showing many specimens in
larval instars. Fig. 2.—Eggs on tender leaf. Fig. 3.—Heavy
infestation of leaf, showing globules of honeydew embedded in
woolly secretions overgrown by fungi...........-------+---------
. Work of the pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella). Fig.
1.—Twig of pecan, showing injury to foliage. Fig. 2—Leaves of
PECAN ONO MANO MUMINES stare. ae sot ce ciiciaecees ges toate Asoo ee
. Pecan tree, showing foliage checked and injured by pecan cigar
CORVSTD OY SN SY eyes eae es Eee RS eR
. Normal pecan tree, same size as that shown in Plate VI, but with-
out injury by the pecan cigar case-bearer...........--.-----------

TEXT FIGURES.

. The conchuela (Pentatoma ligata): Adult, egemass, eggs.....-..-----
. Telenomus ashmeadi, an egg parasite of Pentatoma ligata...........---
. Ceratopogon guttipennis: Adult, larva, pupa, details.........--...-.-.--
. Ceratopogon guttipennis: Mouth parts of adult.................-----
OLA NOGUI) VAMCOLOTS: EMINAs. 62.0026, Soocae ooel een. sete we He ese ated
Be CENALO MOGOTNSILUA/ CH a ACUI Gorse rs aise ee eis cine cleo cleio eis ore erate
SIU BEEN Cane 5a See an Bet ene ee whete Stans ek he ook SEES
. The false-indigo gall-moth (Walshia amorphella): Adult, larva, work. .-
. The fickle midge (Sciara inconstans): Adults and details, larva, pupa-.
. The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus): Adult....-...----
. The four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus): Cocoon......--
. The spotted root fly (Luxesta notata): Adult male and female..........
. The meal snout-moth (Pyralis farinalis): Adult, larva and details,

ehyralisennil: QEtalls: «=. os! a0 poe ene See wane ate eeeeomaseee

peace sousolerus: AGU and details =... 22.5.6 2515S 2ce2deee wea
. The greenhouse thrips (Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis): Adult female and

STS ge pee St eae a ie ra I ee aR Op ne

. The greenhouse thrips: Egg, first-stage larva, full-grown larva......
- ine greenhguse thrips: Prepupa, pupa....---2----<--- 2+ --2Ndeesaes
. The coffee-bean weevil (Arecerus fasciculatus): Larva, adult, pupa. .
. The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi): Eggs, female ovipositing. .
s "The woolly white-fly: Larva, first instar. -............2-..058ca-s«
. The woolly white-fly: Details of larva of second instar.............-
. The woolly white-fly: Pupa case and details.....................-
. Pecan twigs with buds and young leaves killed by pecan cigar case-

Beater (OOLCO PhONa tary LPOLELA) = i. wen wena alive oo ese sees

. The pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryzxfoliella): Adult, larvee in

Page.

10
16
62

66

84

oO
bo

<

H ee mi ca

ia ° Sah
cat via ie by Marge ihinty y

i
i ;
id uy
A Mn \ qv seat
2) : i
: Hye Hye cookin aa ott, a
a ie ey 7 ‘Silty bib ay
‘e Ueda) a” ew ramen ne ‘
iS A " It Re pie i ; a i a
POS AA PE A As Ber 1 allie i PY GE nun haa ayn! a get aS
i . vane i i eae | vik yy "i we
=n \
rts) i
Pattee ty ah
M } f i uth
i 4 al ve
y Ue
‘
ri
) me /
i i J K i“
lim
. ;
yeeN) aga 4 i
aH tty
‘-
1 AS
of mr
: i
| 4 ¥
CN yd
’ Fe
es
“oe
\ eo
ry HD ¥
haf A
;
Meat
ai) k

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905.

(Pentatoma ligata Say.) ¢

3y A. W. MorRILL,

Special Field Agent.
INTRODUCTION.

In a recent bulletin of the Bureau of Entomology ” the writer gave
an account of the Mexican conchuela (Pentatoma ligata Say, fig. 1),
based upon an investigation conducted in northern Mexico in Septem-
ber, 1904. It was predicted that should the pest ever become very
abundant in this country, where more diversified farming is usually
practiced, it would be likely to affect a wide range of farm crops
instead of confining its attacks to cotton alone. Almost unknown in
1903, the conchuela, as it is called by the natives of Mexico, first be-
‘came of considerable importance as a cotton pest in the leading cotton
district of Mexico—the “* Laguna ”—and in 1904 established its repu-
tation as an enemy of alfalfa in western Texas by ruining in specific
instances seed valued at over $1,000, representing the loss to the crops
of two growers from whom definite reports were obtained. This loss
in western Texas was, however, first made known to entomologists in

July of the following year (1905), through correspondence of a resi-
dent of Barstow, Tex., with Mr. W. D. Hunter, in charge of the inves-
tigations on cotton insects conducted by this Bureau. As the writer
was at that time in Mexico, continuing his investigations of this pest,
Mr. J. C. Crawford was sent to Barstow to investigate the economic
status of the insect there. His preliminary observations were made
on July 20 to 22, inclusive, and were followed by visits to Barstow
by the writer on August 11 and 12 and September 12, and by Mr.
Crawford on October 13 and November 14. The reports of Mr.
Crawford, which were duly submitted to Mr. Hunter, have been
freely used by the writer in preparing this paper.

aQOrder Hemiptera, family Pentatomide.

b Bul. 54, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., pp. 18-34, 1905.

2 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.
AN ASSOCIATED SPECIES.

An allied pentatomid, the grain bug* (Pentatoma sayi Stal),
was found at Barstow associated with the conchuela. In 1905 this
species was not plentiful enough to cause much damage to crops by
itself, but as the character of its injury and that of the conchuela is
the same it is necessary to consider the two species together when they
aré-found on the same food plant. In this case they were found
together only on alfalfa and Milo maize, although the grain bug 1s
known to have a wide range of food plants and probably is fully as
general in its feeding habits as is the conchuela. The history of the
former species as a’ pest antedates, even in western Texas, that of
the latter, for as long ago as December, 1895, specimens of Pentatoma
sayi were received by this Bureau from Toyahvale, Reeves County,
Tex., with a report that they had destroyed 40 acres of peas and 2
acres of lima beans on the correspondent’s farm. It is interesting to
note that this report came from a point not 50 miles from Barstow.
Since that time this species has earned a bad reputation by its de-
structiveness to wheat and oats in Colorado and elsewhere.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL CONDITIONS AT BARSTOW, TEX.

Ward County, of which Barstow is the county seat, is situated in
western Texas, a short distance south of the southeastern corner of
New Mexico. With the exception of a narrow valley along the river
the country consists of high rolling prairie covered in large part with
a short growth of mesquite and sage. Being in the arid region the
rainfall is too light to be depended on for agricultural purposes and
all crops are grown under irrigation, a practice which began with the
settlement of the county in 1891. Water for irrigation is obtamed
from the Pecos River, and at present about 10,000 acres are under
cultivation in the county. Of this area, in 1905, about 5,000 acres
were devoted to cotton and the greater part of the remainder to
erapes, peaches, and alfalfa. The elevation of Barstow is about
2,500 feet above the sea level.

DAMAGE TO CROPS PREVIOUS TO 1905.

According to residents of Barstow who are best informed concern-
ing the conchuela, the insect never, previous to 1904, attacked crops
of any kind in sufficient numbers to attract attention. As far as
can be learned there had been, previous to that time, no attempt
to produce a seed crop of alfalfa. The occurrence of this pest on
cotton in moderate numbers is not likely to be associated with the

aIn using this common name for this species the writer follows Prof. C. P.
Gillette. Bul. 94, Colo. Exp. Sta., p. 8, Dec., 1904.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 3

injury which usually first becomes apparent upon the opening of
the bolls. The most notable losses in 1904, which with little doubt
were due to the conchuela, were on the farms of Mr. C. E. Pierce
and Miller Brothers. The former had 120 acres of alfalfa which
was cut for the seed crop about the middle of July, from 150 to 200
pounds of seed per acre being expected. It was noticed that this
insect was very abundant in the field, but the extent of the damage
was fully realized only when an average of 834 pounds of seed per
acre was obtained. At the prevailing value of 12 cents per pound
the estimated loss was from $8 to $14 per acre, or from $960 to
$1.680 for the entire field. The 10 acres of alfalfa belonging to
Miller Brothers should have produced at least 150 pounds of seed
per acre, according to general estimates, but so much of the seed
was ruined, supposedly by the conchuela, that the yield was reduced
to 60 pounds per acre. The average loss per acre was estimated
as at least $10. Other losses of this kind occurred in Ward County
during 1904, but the information obtainable concerning them is less
definite. According to one report, alfalfa growers at two other
points in the Pecos River Valley—Grand Falls and Toyah Creek—
experienced a failure with a seed crop of alfalfa in that year which
they attributed to “ weevil,” a term commonly applied to the cause of
such losses even before an insect has been located upon which to place
the responsibility. In this case the writer believes that at least the
greater part of the losses in question can be safely considered as due
to the work of Pentatoma ligata, together with the grain bug,
P. sayi.
CROPS DAMAGED IN 1905.

ALFALFA.

Direct observations, both in western Texas and northern Mexico,
showed that fields devoted to alfalfa are capable of harboring the
conchuela in enormous numbers. In the Laguna district in Mexico
alfalfa has been grown for several years, but only for hay and forage.
and in comparatively small quantities on the cotton plantations. As
far as could be learned, previous to 1905 the pest here considered
never attracted attention on account of its occurrence in the alfalfa
fields, but in that year it became so abundant that at Tlahualilo,
State of Durango, upon the cutting of a crop, adjacent cotton fields
and a small vineyard were overrun by myriads of the insects, while
several miles distant at another plantation it was first brought to the
notice of the managers by appearing in large numbers in the troughs
in which green alfalfa was fed to stock. In these cases, no seed
crop being grown, the attack was limited to the leaves and stems.
The effect of the extensive feeding on these parts can not be definitely

4 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU-——IX.

stated, as in all cases where plants without seed were heavily in-
fested the cutting was made before the writer had an opportunity to
make an examination. According to report, however, no marked
effect upon the plant was produced in the instances here recorded,
and, accordingly, until more is known, we may assume that where
it is not intended to produce seed the principal danger incident to
the occurrence of the conchuela in alfalfa fields lies in the fact
that a choice breeding place is furnished the insects, which may
multiply to enormous numbers and spread to other crops. This
phase of the subject will be discussed elsewhere in this paper and also
in a report on Heteroptera attacking the cotton plant.

Fic. 1.—The conchuela (Pentatoma ligata) : a, adult bug; b, egg mass on leaves; c, egg
after hatching, lid removed showing egg burster; d, egg before hatching, from above ;
e, egg from side, showing lid above exit hole; f, egg before hatching, from side; a, en-
larged 4 diam.; b, enlarged 22 diam.; c-f, enlarged 9 diam. (Author’s illustration.)

In infested fields when the seed is present the bugs may be seen
clinging to the seed clusters extracting the rich juices by means of
their thread-like sete. The seed pod, when once fed upon, shrivels
and turns dark and is readily distinguished from uninjured seed
pods. No attempt has been made to determine how rapidly a bug
progresses with its destructive feeding, but as these insects are usually
ebserved to be engaged in this way as long as desirable food remains,
and as the individual seed is small, undoubtedly each one of the
insects is capable of destroying a very large number of the seed pods
during its existence.

Cutting of the alfalfa checks the multiplication of the pest, but
also has the effect of driving the bugs elsewhere in search of food,

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 9)

often with more or less serious results to neighboring crops. It
should also be noted that the longer time required to produce a seed
crop is favorable to the production of large numbers of the insects.
Windrows of alfalfa hay, originally intended for thrashing for the
seed, in the field of Mr. Carson, at Barstow, were found to harbor
many adult conchuelas which were for the most part busily engaged
in destroying the last few seed clusters. It would thus appear that
the danger is not over with the cutting of the alfalfa, and that
thrashing should be attended to as soon as possible if the insects are
present and injury is to be avoided.

The only extensive damage to alfalfa by this insect at Barstow
during 1905 was on the farm of Mr. J. P. Carson. Other growers,
owing to their experience of the previous year, decided to grow no
seed crop; thus indirectly many suffered a loss which should be
charged up to the insect, as an average crop of seed has a value equal
to several times that of a single cutting for hay. Mr. Carson had 55
acres ready for cutting for the seed the last week in July, but the
damage by the bugs amounted to complete destruction, for although
the land was originally heavily seeded, there was not sufficient unin-
jured seed to defray the expense of thrashing. The loss was consid-
erably more than $1,500, in addition to the partial loss of a hay crop
in the extra time allowed for the maturity ofthe seed.

Miller Brothers in 1905 fortunately avoided the destructive work
of the insects and made a fair seed crop. At Barstow the interval
between cuttings for hay is on the average about four and one-half
weeks, while for the maturity of the seed an additional period of
about three and one-half weeks is necessary. Other farm-work pre-
vented Miller Brothers from cutting their alfalfa when it was in
prime condition for cutting for hay. As the seed began to mature,
the scarcity of the pest which had proven so destructive the previous
season caused the owners to anticipate a successful seed crop. On Sep-
tember 13 the writer, who made a careful examination of the condi-
tion of the alfalfa field referred to, found the bugs scarce, as reported,
and the damage to the seed, which was already mature, very slight.
The yield of seed reported by Miller Brothers for the 10 acres was
1,499 pounds.

MILO MAIZE.

On August 11 a field of Milo maize was examined at Barstow, and
it was found that in certain spots a considerable proportion of the
seed was ruined, while more or less ruined seed could be found
throughout the field. According to the owner, Mr. Carson, the con-
chuelas had been very abundant a week previous, as many as 25 of
the insects frequently being noted on a single seed head. They were
found to be generally distributed throughout the field on August 11,

6 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

but in small numbers, the largest number found on a single seed |
head being five—two adults, two fourth-instar nymphs, and one fifth-
instar nymph. On the Milo maize, as on the alfalfa, Pentatoma
ligata was accompanied by P. sayi, but in more nearly equal numbers;
this is not necessarily of any special significance, though possibly it
may indicate a preference of the latter species for the seed of the
grains.

COTTON.

The first examination for the conchuela in the cotton fields at
Barstow was on August 11, when of the five fields visited specimens
of the insect were found in all except one. In every case the number
of damaged bolls, although in small proportion, gave evidence of the
occurrence of the insect in somewhat larger numbers some weeks
previous. In one field an examination of 100 plants showed an in-
festation of 5 per cent of the plants, with 12 adults per 100 plants.
The damage to the bolls in this field amounted approximately to 15
per cent. Another field of about 10 acres was found to be damaged
to a less extent except for about one-half an acre near one side where,
of 60 bolls selected at random, 30 per cent were destroyed by bugs.
The writer estimates, as a result of personal examinations in many
fields at and near Barstow, that the average damage to cotton by the
conchuela in 1905 was about 10 per cent.

PEACHES.

Although peaches have been grown at Barstow for several years
we have no report of damage to the fruit by the conchuela or other
bugs until 1905, when the matter was reported by Mr. C. E. Pierce
and investigated, as stated in the introduction, by Mr. Crawford and
the writer. The attack was confined to the fruit of the earliest varieties
in their first fruiting season. The trees were located on the side of
the orchard adjacent to the 120-acre alfalfa field, the damage to the
seed crop of which in the previous year has already been mentioned.
Shortly after the 10th of July, coincident with the cutting of the
alfalfa, the bugs were noticed on the fruit of these trees, which was
just beginning to ripen. The trees soon became very heavily infested,
and on July 20 it was not uncommon to observe from 10 to 15 on a
single peach and in one instance 20 were counted. ‘The tendency
of the conchuelas to congregate on certain individual peaches was
very marked, as has likewise been observed in their occurrence
upon cotton bolls« On the most heavily infested trees, owing to
this habit, many peaches at any given time seemed neglected, but
all on the attacked trees were ultimately destroyed. The injured
fruit became shrunken in spots and sponge-like to the touch, finally

a Bul. 54, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 26, 1905.

fa

MEXICAN CONCHUELA ‘IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. ff

falling to the ground. It was apprehended that the pests would
transfer their attention to the late peaches when these began to
ripen, and a few were observed to do so, but apparently when the
supply of early peaches was exhausted or rendered unfit for further
feeding, the late peaches were not mature enough to be attractive,
and consequently suffered practically no injury from this source.

GRAPES.

In 1905 at Barstow the fruit in the vineyards was in general
only slightly affected by Pentatoma ligata. The principal damage

was in the small gardens in town, where in certain instances the

destruction was practically complete. Probably owing to the large
area occupied by the vineyards and to the fact that the fruit of the
different varieties ripens at about the same time, no especial con-
centration of the insects in the large vineyards was noticed, and there
was no indication that any such concentration occurred. The ripe
fruit is preferred, although when the food supply is short it may be
attacked when immature. The injured berry shrivels and under the
influence of the hot sun soon becomes raisin-like.

At Tlahualilo, Durango, Mexico, on July 17, 1905, a vineyard of
about 10 acres with vines heavily loaded with fruit became thor-
oughly infested by direct migration from an adjacent alfalfa field
of adults and of nymphs in the last two instars. Each cluster of
grapes was attacked by several bugs, the maximum noted on a single
cluster being 25. Without consultation with the writer the grapes
were picked immediately upon discovery of the infestation, the pre-
sumption being that the removal of their food would serve as a
check to the insects, to the benefit of the cotton fields. This step
was, however, inadvisable, since the fruit, which was of compara-
tively small value, would have served as a trap at which the bugs
could have been easily destroyed when so thickly congregated. As
it was, the bugs gathered in groups of hundreds on the trellis posts
and on the vines, principally at the forks, where they were destroyed,
partly by spraying and partly by use of a gasoline-blast torch. The
last-mentioned method, while effective in its destruction of the pest,
injured the vines to a certain extent in nearly all cases.

GARDEN VEGETABLES.

Between the middle of July and the middle of August garden
crops at Barstow were affected to a considerable extent by this
destructive pest. Owing to the comparatively small amount of land
devoted to such crops, the actual money equivalent of the loss was
not great. The crops which suffered most were peas, beans, and
tomatoes. In each case the attack was restricted almost entirely to

78936°—Bull. 64—11——2

8 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

the seed or fruit, thus accomplishing a maximum of damage. Under
another heading the writer has referred to the destruction of peas
and beans in Western Texas, not far from Barstow, by the grain
bug. Among other cases on record which give further evidence of
the losses pentatomid bugs may cause by their attacks on vegetables
is one quoted by H. G. Hubbard from the report of a Florida
correspondent on his experience with a species commonly called the
green tree bug (Vezara hilaris Say). According to the report, this
species attacked cowpea vines before any seed was developed and
completely ruined 35 acres of this crop, so that no good seed was
obtained. A garden crop of tomatoes was also reported to have been
entirely destroyed, the ground under the vines being almost covered
by the fallen fruit. The injured fruit was described as reddish-
yellow in color at the point punctured, and when cut was found to
be “ full of lumps and totally devoid of flavor.” These records of
the damage by other pentatomid bugs to general garden crops show
the extent to which the conchuela is capable of affecting these crops
when they are grown on a more extensive scale than was the case at
Barstow at the time the observations recorded in this paper were
made.
OTHER FOOD PLANTS.

The principal natural food plants of the conchuela are the mesquite
and related leguminous plants, the beans being the object of attack.
It would require more than one season’s observations to determine
how important is the connection between the abundance of mesquite
beans and the abundance of the insects on cultivated plants. It is
presumable that during the period when the insects are multiplying
most rapidly the abundance of rich food such as the mesquite bean
provides is an important factor in determining the amount of subse-
quent injury to crops. At Barstow, in addition to the mesquite and
the crops which have been separately discussed, the conchuela has
been found feeding on the fruit of peppers, on squash vines, and on
the leaves of yucca. It has also been reported on good authority to
have been observed in considerable numbers on corn, and the writer
has in Mexico found egg batches of this species attached to the green
leaves of corn. In general, the species may be said to be almost
omnivorous, showing a preference, however, for fruits and seeds.

SEASONAL HISTORY.

The multiplication of the conchuela in western Texas seems to fol-
low the same course as has been observed in northern Mexico; in
other words, the maximum number is reached between the middle and

aReport on Insects Affecting the Orange. Div. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agric., p.
160, 1885.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 3!

last of July, after which the number diminishes rapidly. The bugs
are strong fliers, which accounts for their sudden appearance on a
given crop, and in some cases for their sudden disappearence from it.

On July 20-22 no eggs or young could be found on the infested
peach trees, nor could any of these stages be found on August 11 and
12 after the adults had entirely disappeared from the trees. If any
eggs were deposited by the bugs when the latter were attacking the
peaches the resulting nymphs were probably carried to the ground
with the falling of the fruit, for the interval between the examina-
tions was not sufficiently long for them to have reached the winged
or adult stage. The only breeding places of consequence found at
Barstow were in the alfalfa fields. Here eggs and nymphs were found
in large numbers on August 11 and 12. A month later the insects
had been reduced by at least one-half, and their scarcity was noticeable
everywhere except in small areas in some fields of alfalfa and along
the borders near fences and ditches where the cuttings had not been
made at regular intervals. Of 32 adult pentatomids collected in the
alfalfa fields September 12, 26 were P. ligata and 6 P. sayi. At the
next examination, on October 13, it was evident that the insects were
still decreasing in numbers, but the nymphs in the last two stages
were proportionally more abundant than before. In the lot of 16
adults and 49 nymphs collected at that time, ?. say was not repre-
sented. The last examination, made on November 14, showed that
the conchuelas had almost entirely disappeared; a half hour’s search
where, at the time of previous examinations, they had been found
most abundant, resulted in the capture of only 6 adults, no nymphs
being seen.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

EGG PARASITES.

Minute egg parasites belonging to the family Proctotrypide are
generally known among entomologists to play an important role in
checking the multiplication of many insects, so that anything which
affects the numbers of these parasites frequently results in a corre-
sponding benefit or injury to the crops attacked by the host insects.
If these parasites of the eggs of pentatomids were eliminated, many
of the pentatomids would undoubtedly be ranked among our most
important insect pests. The importance of these parasites in check-
ing the multiplication of the conchuela at Barstow in 1905 can be
best emphasized by summarizing the results obtained by rearing
parasites from eggs collected at that place.

10 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU——IX.

Summary of results obtained by rearing parasites from eggs of Pentatoma
ligata collected at Barstow, Tex., in 1906.

| |

= | Number |
J : rm + Number | Per cent Per cent
When collected | aoe | ee pee | Per cent | of para- | produc- aesteieee failing to
“dd. pores ak es Rerened | hatched. | sites jing para- by Farts produce
AU! S. 555. . > > 1
( emerged.| sites. agencies. | nymphs.
August 11-12........ | 6 | 181 35 | 19 41 29 0. 81
September 2ees-ce.. 13 246 | 20 | 8 | 148 54 a35 92
Motalsasseee eee | 19 427 55 | 13 | 189 44 | 35 | 87

a Representing two batches of 13 and 22 eggs, respectively. Presumably destroyed by ants, the
broken eggshells remaining.

Shrinking of the eggs, indicating infertility, occurred in no case
among the eggs included above. From the fact that adult para-
sites frequently fail to emerge from the egg of the host even after

Fig. 2.— Telenomus ashmeadi, an important egg parasite of Pentatoma ligata: Adult female and antenna
of male. Highly magnified (original).

breaking through the shell—and as far as observed it seldom occurs
in nature that eggs of the conchuela fail to hatch when not destroyed
by outside agencies—it may be concluded that practically all the
eggs appearing intact which failed to hatch were destroyed by the
parasites. In support of this supposition 10 eggs which neither
hatched nor from which live parasites emerged, selected at random
from the 19 batches above mentioned, were opened and each was
found to contain a dead adult parasite. The specimens bred from
the eggs of P. ligata and also of P. sayi from Barstow were all of the
same species and identified by Dr. William H. Ashmead, of the U.S.
National Museum, as a new species of the genus Telenomus (fig. 2).
The writer will describe the species under the name 7elenomus
ushmeadi. An egg batch of the conchuela containing hatched and
unhatched eggs is shown in Plate I, igure 1, and a parasitized egg
batch in Plate I, figure 2.

Bul. 64, Part 1, Bureau of Entomology, U. S Dept. of Agriculture PLATE l.

FiG. 1.—EGG BATCH OF CONCHUELA (PENTATOMA LIGATA), SHOWING HATCHED AND
UNHATCHED EGGS. ENLARGED 6; DIAMETERS (ORIGINAL).

Fic. 2.—E@G BATCH OF CONCHUELA (PENTATOMA LIGATA) FROM WHICH 32
PROCTOTRYPID PARASITES (TELENOMUS ASHMEADI) HAVE EMERGED. ENLARGED
63 DIAMETERS (ORIGINAL).

The illustration shows three parasites, including male.and female, ready to emerge; also
an egg destroyed, probably by an ant.

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 11
TACHINID PARASITES.

A species of the very useful family Tachinide, Gymnosoma fuli-
ginosa Desv., has been reared from adults of the conchuela. The
victims of this parasitic fly are distinguished by the yellowish-white
egg or eggshell which remains attached to the thorax of the host
unless it happened to have been attached to a nymph in the fifth
instar, which afterwards molted. On August 11 and 12 only three
parasitized specimens were discovered, two in the fifth nymphal
instar and one an adult. An adult of this species of Tachinidw was
bred from one of these bugs. On September 12 parasitism by these
tachinids was found to be more common than at the time of the
previous visit. Of 24 adults examined at that time, 4 were found
to be parasitized. On October 13, of 18 adults and 31 nymphs in
the fifth nymphal instar, 2 only had been parasitized, both nymphs.
While these parasites are decidedly beneficial and may be more useful
under some conditions, they were not sufficiently abundant at Barstow
in 1905 to explain the rapid decimation of the numbers of the con-
chuela which has been described under the subject of seasonal history.

PREDACEOUS ENEMIES.

Although no observations on the subject of predaceous enemies
were made at Barstow, it seems important to refer briefly to the
records of observations by others along this line, in order that it be
not inferred that because pentatomids in general are characterized
by their ability to produce an offensive odor they are immune to the
attacks of insectivorous birds and of toads. On the contrary the
crow is believed to be especially fond of bugs of this group, and
many other birds,’ as well as the common toads,” seem to find them
unobjectionable as food. If we accept the evidence of definite reports
and observations during three successive seasons as indicative of the
usual seasonal history of the conchuela, the period of maximum abun-
dance is followed closely by a marked reduction in the numbers of
the pest. In this it is not unlikely that birds will prove to be an
important if not the leading factor.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Under some conditions farm practices, such as the destruction of
weeds in the fall and otherwise hindering the sucessful hibernation of
the conchuelas, would be of unquestioned value in control, but under

@ Bul. 6, Div. Orn. and Mam., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 63.

*Buls. 13, Biol. Surv., Dept. Agric., U. S., pp. 25, 62, 70; 15, p. 23; 21, p. 43;
23, p. 26. Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. for 1895, pp. 417, 423, 429; Yearbook
U. S. Dept. Agric. for 1900, p. 414, Plates L, LI.

¢ Bul. 46, Hatch (Mass.) Exp. Sta., p. 26. Bul. 91, Ky. Exp. Sta., pp. 62, 64.

12 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—TIX.

the conditions in western Texas, such as those obtaining at Barstow,
probably little good could be accomplished by such measures. With
the mesquite-covered surrounding districts as a stronghold these
insects probably will become established in the alfalfa fields each year
and become more or less numerous as the season progresses, their
numbers being governed by conditions which for the most part exert
their influence secondarily through the natural enemies of the species.
The question of control at Barstow, and where similar conditions
prevail, resolves itself into: First, avoidance of damage to the seed
crop of alfalfa; second, methods tending to prevent the insect’s
spread from alfalfa to other crops, or otherwise preventing infesta-
tions; third, direct remedies applicable for use when crops other than
alfalfa become infested.

AVOIDANCE OF INJURY TO THE SEED CROP OF ALFALFA.

At Barstow the experience of alfalfa growers for two successive
seasons, supported by direct observation by Mr. Crawford and the
writer at regular intervals during 1905, has shown that the conchue-
las are so numerous during July and August that an attempt to pro-
duce a seed crop during this period would be inadvisable. In north-
ern Mexico observations extending over three seasons have shown the
insects both to reach a maximum in numbers and to show a marked
decrease therefrom during the last two weeks of July. This cor-
responded with the history of the pest at Barstow, and it is beheved
that the danger limits above given are sufficiently wide to covereall
but exceptional cases under the present conditions. If a crop
intended for seed promised to mature before July 1, probably but
little damage would be accomplished by the conchuela, but this is
entirely a surmise which it is hoped will be thoroughly tested when
an opportunity presents itself. The same probabilities hold for a crop
of seed which would mature after the Ist of September. This, more-
over, has been substantiated by the experience of Miller Brothers at
Barstow, which has been described under the subject of damage to
alfalfa in 1905. Avoidance of the injury as here outlined is undoubt-
edly simpler than actually defending the seed in the field from attack.

A SUGGESTION AS TO MECHANICAL CONTRIVANCES FOR COLLECTING THE
INSECTS.

Between the conchuela (?. Vigata) and its near relative, the grain
bug (P. say), whose reputation as a pest has already been men-
tioned, it may be anticipated here that in the course of time remedies
will be demanded for use against such insect enemies of alfalfa in
other sections of the country. In a field with ripening seed an ex-
periment with an insect-collecting net in one hand and a stick in the
other, simulating the action of an imaginary specially constructed

MEXICAN CONCHUELA IN WESTERN TEXAS IN 1905. 13

hopperdozer with a revolving fan, convinced the writer of the prac-
ticability of collecting these insects mechanically. The great major-
ity of the insects, when undisturbed, may be found near the tops of
the plants, on the seed clusters when these are present. They drop
to the ground when slightly disturbed, much more readily, in fact,
than when they have a footing on a more substantial object like a
cotton boll. It is safe to predict that a contrivance for collecting will
be devised when the necessity arises. It should be light, operated
from behind, and consist essentially of an elongate metallic pan sus-
pended below a revolving fan geared to the supporting wheels.

PREVENTIVE AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES.

If, as advised in one of the preceding paragraphs, no attempt is
made to produce a seed crop during the period of the year when the
conchuelas are dangerously abundant, an important factor in their
multiplication and spread will be eliminated. But the shorter period
required for the hay crop is sufficient to permit the insects to reach
the enormous numbers indicated in the writer’s reference to the occur-
rence on alfalfa in northern Mexico in 1905. Uusually the greater
number of the insects will not reach maturity during the interim be-
tween cuttings, and the work of preventing the spread will be in part
the checking of the migration of the crawling nymphs. This can be
readily accomplished when necessary by leaving an uncut border
around the field, where the insects when trapped can be destroyed by
spraying with kerosene emulsion. As the insects show a marked
tendency to concentrate in certain limited areas rather than to spread
evenly over the fields, this can be taken advantage of by making a
general examination of the field, before cutting, to locate the colonies.
A few small boys in a few hours might pick up several quarts ¢ of the
adults when these are abundant and well concentrated. If this is not
feasible, small heavily infested areas may be treated with kerosene
emulsion, although adult pentatomids are apt to be quite resistant
to this insecticide. At Tlahualilo, Durango, Mexico, on July 11,
1905, after the alfalfa hay had been made and stacked, countless
hosts of the insects still remained in the alfalfa field in spite of the
extensive migration to neighboring crops. Those that remained
were largely concentrated near one corner of the field and, as suitable
spraying apparatus was not available, destruction of the pest was
accomplished by respreading about 3 or 4 tons of alfalfa hay over
the ground and then burning it. This operation for the protection
of the surrounding cotton fields against further invasion from this
source was effective, but would be unnecessarily costly under ordinary

aQne quart contains approximately 1,500 adult specimens of P. ligata.,

14 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

circumstances. In the case of the chinch bug a practice of destruc-
tion by burning similar to the one here mentioned has been recom-
mended for use under certain conditions.*. Cooperation among the
owners of adjoining farms is necessary in order to obtain the best
results in the attempt to check the spread of the conchuela, as well
as in the case of the chinch bug and many other insects.

A protective measure which may in some cases be recommended,
especially for use in small gardens, consists in screening such crops as
tomatoes with a cheap quality of mosquito netting.

REMEDIES WHEN CROPS OTHER THAN ALFALFA ARE ATTACKED.

The subject of remedies for use in protecting cotton against damage
by the conchuela and related pests will be reserved for a future pub-
heation. When this insect attacks the seed of Milo maize and related
grains little can be done except when the bugs are concentrated in
large numbers in limited areas; then hand collecting or jarring from
the plants may be advisable, particularly as a protective measure
when such an infestation is an element of danger to neighboring
crops. For remedial measures against the insect when it attacks
garden vegetables and grapes we can suggest spraying with kerosene
emulsion and collecting by hand, or, if it is necessary to carry on
operations on a large scale, the bugs may be jarred into convenient
receptacles containing kerosene and water, so arranged that they can
be dragged between the rows if desired.

When attacking peaches a certain proportion of the bugs can be
jarred from the fruit and killed on the ground, but this is at the
best far from satisfactory, as the fruit itself is likely to be shaken off
or otherwise injured and many of the bugs will escape by flying.
Peach trees when pruned in accordance with the practice of the lead-
ing growers are low enough to permit hand picking of all the fruit
and are correspondingly easy of fumigation. A light tent made of
ordinary cotton sheeting can be placed over an infested tree by the use
of poles and held in place at the bottom by dirt or stones. The burn-
ing of tobacco stems, pyrethrum, or buhach powder inside the tent
will soon stupefy the insects and cause them to fall to the ground,
where they can be easily and quickly killed. The fumes can be pre-
vented from escaping too readily through the cloth by lightly paint-
ing it with linseed oil thinned with turpentine. This method of fumi-
gation is inexpensive and has the further advantage of requiring but
a few minutes’ work for each tree.

a Bul. 17, old series, Div. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agric., p..37, 1888.

U.S. D. A., B. BE. Bul. 64; Part IT. Issued April 2. 1907

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK OF
THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON THE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS.

By W. Dwient PIERCE,

Special Field Agent.

Having been detailed to investigate certain injuries attributed to
sowbugs, the writer presents the following notes concerning the life
history and habits of three species of these isopods, namely, Avmad/-
lidium vulgare Latr., Porcellio levis Latr., and Metoponorthus prui-
nosus Brandt. The first species, at least,-is capable of doing con-
siderable injury to garden crops, flower gardens, vines, and_ field
crops in the vicinity of buildings, although it is also found to be a
valuable scavenger. The scavenger habit, however, makes it an unde-
sirable intruder in the house owing to the possibility that it may
convey disease.

ARMADILLIDIUM VULGARE Latr.

The sowbug Armadillidium vulgare Latr. is commonly known as
the “ pill-bug,” on account of its habit of rolling into a ball whenever
disturbed. Ordinarily it is found only in the vicinity of habitations,
in dark, damp places, such as woodsheds and cellars, under boards
and rubbish, and ‘around wells, cisterns, and water barrels. The open
foundations under houses in the South give very favorable locations
for breeding. .

For several years the Department of Agriculture has received
reports of injury from sowbugs to one or another crop in various
parts of Texas. The sowbugs seem to have been on the increase from
year to year. In 1905 the spring rains, although at times oceasioning
a natural check to these pests, brought about a series of conditions
favorable to a rapid increase in their numbers. Moisture is a requisite
to their life, and it also seems that vegetation is a standard article of
food. The bad conditions of the ground throughout Texas during
that year made all crops very late, so that by the time the succulent
cotton and garden crops were coming up the new broods of young
sowbugs were everywhere engaged in fiuding delicate, tender food.

15

16 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

At Dallas the cotton patch of the boll-weevil laboratory furnished
ample evidence of the capacity of these crustaceans in devouring
vegetation (see Pl. II). By April 14 the cotton was sending up the
second, and in some cases the third, pair of leaves. At this time Mr.
Springer Goes noticed that the growing tips in rows adjacent to
buildings were badly eaten, although the injury extended over the
entire patch to a greater or less degree. All plants which were tipped
died very shortly, with the result that seven rows had to be entirely
replanted. A great many of the seedlings of the second planting also
were killed. Many gardens had suffered through attacks on the young
sprouts of beans, peas, and tomatoes, and on rose bushes and other
cultivated flowers. In December Mr. R. C. Howell found the sow-
bugs doing serious damage to roots of palmetto, one large plant being
entirely killed. From Austin there came a note published in Farm
and Ranch, dated April 29, 1905, which enumerated the following
plants as subject to the attacks of this species: Butter beans, radishes,
lettuce, mustard, potted plants, and also flower seed. The earlier
planting of beans was untouched, while the late planting, owing to
the favorable conditions for multiplication afforded the sowbugs, was
seriously injured.

From economic literature the writer finds the following records of
injury attributed to this species:

Miss Richardson @ ¢ites injuries to cucumbers and hothouse vege-
tables at New Orleans, La., to various plants at Fort Worth, Tex.,
and to date palms from Algeria, located at Washington, and states
that these sowbugs are a most serious pest on mushrooms at Berkley,
Va.

Mr. H. Garman’ cites this species as very injurious to young
cucumbers and lettuce in greenhouses, and recommends carbon bisul-
phid as a remedy.

With this information in hand, a series of seventy-five experiments
vas conducted in the laboratory in order to compare various condi-
tions and foods in their effects upon this species. Over 900 individuals
were involved in the experiments, of which the results may be here
summarized,

The most favorable condition under which to keep the sowbugs was
found to consist of a mixture of gumbo and sand kept moist, and a
supply of fresh cotton leaves, leaving some old ones to decay and
mold. Moisture is absolutely essential. With such conditions, sow-
bugs were carried through the entire period of the investigation, e. g.,
10 females and 1 male were kept alive eighty days, and 4 of these

@Monograph on the Isopods of North America. By Harriet Richardson.
Bul. 54, U. S. Nat. Mus., 1905.

b Bul. 91, Ky. Agric. Exp. Sta., 1901.

PLATE Il.

Bul. 64, Part Il, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

WORK OF ARMADILLIDIUM VULGARE ON COTTON.

[This shows the center of the injured area,

which was replanted

, and also the source of the infestation

i—the sheds,

(Ori

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 17
females were still alive one hundred and sixty days after the begin-
ning of the experiment. The cotton leaves, when tender, were eagerly
eaten.

Fungous growth was favorable only under certain conditions. In
the experiments cited above the leaves in contact with the earth de-
cayed and accumulated a rich growth of mold. Upon these decayed
leaves the sowbugs seemed to thrive, although there was always evi-
dence of feeding on green leaves when such were present. Fungous
growths on dry leaves, on decaying fruit, and on moist dead wood
were only capable of sustaining them as long as the moisture was con-
served. Fungus found on earth moistened with molasses sustained
9 sowbugs thirty-six days, and 2 survived as long as seventy-five days.
Green cotton leaves alone will sustain the life of these crustaceans
longer than any other simple condition tried—thirty-two days being
the longest any remained alive under these conditions. The other
vegetation provided was not favorable, and the sowbugs seemed
‘rather to keep alive on the moisture from the blotter or on the fungus-
covered decayed leaves: thus, rose buds and leaves, and the leaves of
violet, mint, and chrysanthemum were untouched by the sowbugs.
These leaves did not retain their moisture long after picking. When
moist earth alone was provided, some found sufficient food to sustain
life eighteen days. Additional proof that nourishment is sought in
the soil was obtained by mixing London purple or Paris green with
the earth. Death always resulted very quickly. When other condi-
tions were unfavorable it was often found that some were sustained
by feeding upon the bodies of their dead associates, which were com-
pletely devoured. The molted skins were generally devoured.

Experiments with the cattle tick (Boophilus annulatus Say) and
its eggs evidenced the fact that the sowbugs fed on the dead ticks and
ate the eggs when no other food was present. Thirty-eight sowbugs
were furnished with a large number of eggs of the tick, and it was
found that in several instances as many as 13 tick eggs each were
eaten per day for a series of days. This, however, was a maximum,
the average during the conduct of the experiment being about 3 eggs
per day each. Experiments to find whether the sowbugs fed upon
the pupe of a cutworm (Prodenia ornithogalli Guen.) proved futile.

A series of outdoor tests was also conducted with baits to find
what substances might be used to attract these crustaceans, and
finally a series of poison tests to ascertain the most advisable remedy.

Bread proved attractive, but as every piece tried was carried away
by some mammal or bird its use seemed inadvisable. Flour, bacon,
potatoes, radishes, and sugar proved to be good baits. To ascertain
the relative value of different insecticides several poison tests were
conducted with pyrethrum, Paris green, London purple, and arsenic.
Few dead sowbugs were found, however, and it was noticed that a

18 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

less number approached the poisoned baits than those not poisoned.
A series of tests with repellents showed that barriers of powder—
whether pyrethrum, arsenic, London purple, or Paris green—proved
obnoxious, the sowbugs quickly turning away to avoid the danger, and
showing, by the frantic waving of the antenna, that they had a per-
ception of something wrong. ULondon purple seemed the least repel-
lent and yet practically as effective as any of the others. Sowbugs
placed in a jar with a biscuit rolled in arsenic became frantic and
died in a few minutes, as did others placed in jars with earth mixed
with either London purple or Paris green.

After sprinkling Paris green under boards which had been favorite
haunts of the sowbugs, no more live specimens could be found,
although each day several dead ones were discovered. In April,
when the sowbugs were doing considerable damage to the cotton, a
mixture of Paris green and lime was dusted on and around the
sprouts with the result that under the poisoned plants great numbers
of dead sowbugs were found. No dead could be found around the
unpoisoned plants. The dusting was harsh treatment for the plants,
being in many cases fatal. It is, however, as proved by other tests,
unnecessary to dust the plants. The poison will be picked up by the
sowbugs in foraging over the ground.

Under a roll of wire matting in his back yard the writer found the
sowbugs so abundant that they crawled over each other in their haste
to get away. Having very little poison on hand, he sprinkled what
he had of Paris green, London purple, and arsenic over the ground in
an area of about 1 square yard and rolled back the matting. Next
morning he found 21 sowbugs alive and over 800 dead. Those alive
died in a few days, apparently from the effects of the poisoning.
The poison washed from these dead sowbugs and used to saturate the
soil in jars in several experiments proved fatal to all sowbugs placed
in the jars.

Kerosene emulsion as a contact spray was fatal. In spraying a
water barrel with kerosene the writer generally sprayed the ground
around it also, with the result that the sowbugs were always kalled.

These experiments and tests were supplemented by numerous ob-
servations of actual conditions from which also data may be derived
regarding means of control.

Concerning the plant-feeding habits, definite proofs were obtained
as follows:

May 25, at 7.30 a. m., sowbugs were noted at various distances
above the ground feeding on the foliage of weeds and honeysuckle.
On June 30, at 7 a. m., three sowbugs were discovered feeding on
weeds, and one at 8 feet above the ground feeding on a honey-
suckle leaf. Nine others were found on the honeysuckle vine at var-

9

ious heights up to 8 feet; also two on grass blades and seven on the

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 19

ground under the honeysuckle. On July 3, at 7.30 p. m., the sowbugs
were just commencing to climb the various plants, and none were
feeding as yet. On the honeysuckle 19 were seen at various heights
up to 8 feet, and all but two on the stems and moving upward.

The following definite proofs of the scavenger habits of this sow-
bug were obtained: May 17 a dead rat near the house was found
covered with a great number of sowbugs and almost entirely eaten,
even the skin being eaten in places. At another time several sowbugs
were discovered Hlgeently cleaning a peach pit.

Concerning the haunts of these animals the following observations
were made: In April and May there was considerable moisture, and
under every shaded, moist board, cinder, and clod, and under straw,
refuse, garbage, and carrion, one could easily find many adult sow-
bugs and multitudes of young. In the cotton patch, at the base of
each plant, the ground became cracked, and here sheltered great num-
bers of sowbugs, which very likely did injury to the roots. May 17,
under the trees and in shady places, the sowbugs were so plentiful
that at every step numbers were crushed. July 3, at 8 p. m., sowbugs
to the number of 14 were found on an oak tree, the highest being 5 or
6 feet above the ground. July 26, in the late afternoon and early even-
ing, some five dozen sowbugs were found in cracks and holes on three
trees, many of them as high as could be seen.

Regarding the effect of natural and field conditions upon these
crustaceans certain notes were made. Susceptibility to varying
weather conditions was very noticeable. May 25, at 7.30 a. m.,
a large number of sowbugs had gathered at baits. At 8 o’clock a
sudden storm commenced to rise. The sowbugs seemed immediately
conscious of danger and hastened in all directions for the highest
shelter possible, gaining protection on the fence and beneath the
clapboards of the house. All were out of sight when the first drops
of water fell. In April and May there was considerable rain, and
during the periods of sunshine, at whatever time of day, the sow-
bugs were to be seen everywhere, crawling over the sidewalks and
pavements. April 23 and 24 the ground was drenched with water,
and on the 25th dead sowbugs were to be found everywhere on the
ground and on the sidewalks. On June 3 a similar observation was
made in a spot where the water had stood for several days. By
June 15 the intense heat had driven the sowbugs from the open so
that few could be found in unprotected places.

The writer’s notes upon the biology of the isopods are based on
observations of about a thousand individuals in the large series of
experiments that has been already referred to.

Copulation was frequently noted out of doors during April and
May. The males may be distinguished from the females by their
colors as well as by the specific sexual characters. They are a

20 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

dark slaty blue, while the females are lighter and have yellow
markings.

The period of incubation in this species is long, between fifty-six
and ninety-three days, according to the varying results obtained.
As no individuals were secured in copula, the exact time of its dura-
tion was not recorded. The development of the eggs may be watched
from the exterior. The females should be treated very carefully,
but with a lens one may see on the ventral side, in the marsupium,
the distinct form of the eggs, and may notice the increase in size
and finally note the young embryos and the little white young. One
experiment with 10 females was most fruitful in giving data on this
point. On May 8, June 16, and July 8 young had been produced,
and on examination on July 26 all were found to be unfertilized
except one, which had eggs apparent. On August 7 the fertile
female produced a brood of young. This was ninety-three days
after being placed in captivity. A male was admitted on July 26,
and on September 30 a brood of young was produced. This would in-
dicate a period of incubation of, at the most, sixty-eight days. In
another experiment a female which had just produced a brood of
young was placed with 3 males on August 7. On October 2 a brood
of young was produced, making the period of incubation fifty-seven
days. The number of young in a brood varied from 29 to 79.

The little isopods are pure white when they leave the marsupium.
They have six pairs of legs. Within twenty-four hours of birth they
molt, and still have only six pairs of legs. Between the fourteenth
and eighteenth days another molt takes place and the resulting
third instar has seven pairs of legs. The young continue to grow
and molt, having been observed in the act of molting on the twenty-
eighth, thirty-sixth, fifty-eighth, and sixty-eighth days. After the
first molt there is no regularity as to times of molting in the brood,
all depending on the food supply. After the first molt a slight dark-
ening of the intestines is noted, and by the twenty-first day the sow-
hugs are of a gray color throughout and under 8 mm. in length. In
fifty-eight days they have not increased beyond 4 mm. in length. ‘The
ereatest size of any found was 15 mm. This specimen was probably
several years old. Females not over 7 mm. long are capable of
reproduction.

Before molting, the body of all sowbugs becomes a very dirty
gray color. The act of molting is peculiar. At first a white border
indicating the loosening of the old skin appears at the front edge
of the fifth free thoracic segment, then another on the sixth, and
still another on the seventh. Finally the entire posterior half of the
skin is free and the isopod steps out of it. This process consumes
about twenty-four hours, and when completed the posterior part
of the body is of fresh slate color, while the old anterior part appears

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF SOWBUGS. 21

very dull. Following the first stage of the molt the anterior seg-
ments commence to loosen and are slid forward. The dorsum of
the third and fourth thoracic segments is loosened before the legs
of these segments are released. From then on the last two pairs of
legs in the very young and the last three in later stages are used to
hold the animal in position. The anterior legs are-not available for
use for some time after they are free. The antenne are withdrawn
last.

Regeneration of parts takes place in the antenne and legs. Several
times individuals with aborted members were noticed. These latter
would gradually attain full length, then budding of the succeeding
segment would be noted and finally this member would be normal.
The regenerated part is white for some time.

REMEDIES.

In the treatment of sowbugs poisoned baits are standard remedies.
The great fondness of sowbugs for potatoes long ago led to these
being used, poisoned either with Paris green or London purple.
The potatoes are sliced and a thin covering of powder applied.
Sprinkling the soil around an injured plant with Paris green, or
dusting the same under boards and other haunts of the sowbugs is
also very effective. If the sowbugs are injurious in a garden patch—
after treating the ordinary haunts—it is best to keep the ground well
broken and raked to prevent clodding and cracking, which gives them
protection. Old boards, cans, and rubbish should not be allowed to
accumulate. Such precautions will tend greatly to prevent any
great damage or annoyance.

Carbon bisulphid has been recommended for the treatment of sow-
bugs in greenhouses and dwellings, but no special experiments along
this line have been tried by the writer.

PORCELLIO LAVIS Latr.

Porcellio levis Laty. is a lighter colored sowbug than the preced-
ing, and does not roll up in a ball when disturbed, but instead runs
‘rapidly away to cover. The only definite point in favor of consid-
ering it as naturally a plant feeder was the discovery of one dead
specimen under cotton dusted with Paris green. It was found, how-
ever, that the best way to keep this species alive in the laboratory
was to furnish it with fresh cotton leaves and loose mixed soil.
Sowbugs of this species were not found far from the barns, and were
not numerous in the laboratory cotton patch. They were generally
under moist, dark objects and seemed to prefer damp wood piles.
Several were found with Armadillidium in crevices and in trees at
various heights. One Porcellio was found in the skeleton of a car-
abid beetle, which was entirely eaten out. In numerous cases this

oD MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

species was found devouring those of its own kind. The molted skin
is usually eaten. A chest of old clothes, which had been wet in a
flood, was found to be literally alive with this sowbug. Experiments
with eggs of the cattle tick (Boophilus annulatus Say) gave the fol-
lowing results: Four sowbugs provided with over 300 eggs devoured
153 at the rate of between 5 and 6 a day each.

The broods of this species are small, numbering from 8 to 30.
Metamorphosis is more rapid than in Armadillidium. The seventh
pair of legs is attained before the twelfth day. Molting is as in
Armadillidium.

The same remedies as recommended for Armadilliidium were found
to be effective.

METOPONORTHUS PRUINOSUS Brandt.

Metoponorthus pruinosus Brandt is a much rarer sowbug than
either of the two preceding species. It is also more delicate and more
agile. The color is a beautiful blue-gray in the male and somewhat
tinged with red in the female. Its haunts are damp, earthy places
in sheds, ete.

These sowbugs feed very eagerly on cotton leaves and were: kept
under the same condition as the two preceding species. Forty tick
eges were eaten by two individuals at the rate of about 7 per day
each. They may be poisoned by dusting the soil in their haunts
with arsenicals.

Reproduction and development is very rapid, much more so than
in either Armadillidium or Porcellio. One pair produced four
broods of young in sixty-two days, there being seventeen, sixteen,
and twenty-one days between broods. The broods are small. The
young grow so rapidly that in two months they are one-half as large
as their parents. They molt frequently. It is very difficult to ob-
serve this species closely because of its rapidity of movement.

CONCLUSIONS.

In conclusion it may be said that (1) in a damp year the sowbugs
may do considerable damage to the young growing vegetable crops;
(2) they serve at all times as scavengers; (3) their exclusion from
houses is advisable because of the scavenger habit, there being a
possibility of the transmission of diseases; (4) in the case of the
eattle-tick problem they may be beneficial by eating such eggs as are
deposited in barns, sheds, pens, in the woods near the watering places,
and in moist meadows. Finally, cleanliness is probably the best pre-
ventive against sowbug inroads, arsenical compounds the best outdoor
remedies, and carbon bisulphid the best indoor remedy.

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part III. Issued April 2, 1907.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF -ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON ‘ PUNKIES.”’
(Ceratopogon spp.)

By HC. Prawr,
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

While in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Bluemont, Va., a few
years ago the writer heard reports concerning ‘‘biting gnats,’ which
were said to bite furiously before rains. At that time his stay was
of short duration, and a dry summer prevented him from securing
specimens. In 1904, however, during another visit to the same local-
ity one rainy week, July 21-28, he was harassed by myriads of these
minute flies, which were extremely numerous and active after as well
as before rains. They proved to be Ceratopogon guttipennis Coq.,
one of the smaller Chironomide. Mr. D. W. Coquillett has recently
made a careful systematic study of the specimens belonging to the
genus Ceratopogon contained in the United States National Museum
collection,.including those reared at the insectary of this Department
and by the writer, and the determinations of the species here men-
tioned are his. The records of these rearings are brought together in
the present paper with the addition of such data as have been commu-
nicated by collectors and correspondents.

Prior to 1902 little had been published on any of these pernicious
insects beyond scattered notices such as were furnished in a previous
bulletin* of this Bureau, on the bite of C. stellifer Coq. in Texas. As
the bibliographic references have never been collected, the writer
has brought together all data and accompanying illustrations, with
such references to the biting and other habits of this group as he has
been able to find.

CERATOPOGON GUTTIPENNIS Coq.

The flies of the species Ceratopogon guttipennis will bite any exposed
part of the body, preferring, however, the hairy parts. At one time
25 individuals were counted in the hair on the head of the writer’s
8-year-old boy guide at Bluemont, Va. They are persistent in their
endeavors to obtain blood, piercing the skin and filling up with blood
so as almost to lose semblance to flies. In many cases an itching

a Bul. 44, Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 92, 1904.
78936°—Bull. 64—11

bo
eo

2
c

24 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

pimple results from the punctures, the eruptions, in appearance,

Fia, 3.—Ceratopogon guttipennis: a, adult; b, head of same; c, larva; d, head of Sess e, pupa. All
greatly enlarged (original).
being very much like the vesicles caused by contact with poison ivy.
The adult is a minute fly 1 mm. in length, appearing blackish to the
naked eye, but under a lens seen to be of a deep gray hue, with mot-
tled wings (fig. 3). Its mouth parts are
illustrated in figure 4. The species was
described by Mr. D. W. Coquillett,* to
whose paper the reader is referred for
descriptions of many species of this genus.
The Virginia punkie is the name which the
writer would suggest for this particular
species, as it may possibly be distinct y
from the one occurring in Maine which
the Indians called ‘‘no-see-um,” and which S, a
is popularly known as ‘“‘punkie,”’ the
latter name being corrupted according |. 1 -Cenitsteaca eae eee
to locality. The flies of this species are Mouth parts of adult. Highly
very troublesome to man and domestic = ™*®™%°¢(omiginal-
animals. If milking is put off later than usual in the morning,
they drive the cows almost frantic by their persistence, and while.
that process is going on the operator, having both hands engaged,
is at their mercy.

THE LARVA.

Larve were found in the very dirty water in holes in the middle of

NOTES ON ‘‘PUNKIES.”’ 25

beri Coq., Culex signifer Coq., and C. triseriatus Coq.), larve of the
dascyllid beetle Prionocyphon discoideus Say, and a rat-tailed maggot
related to Eristalis. Eggs could not be found on account of the
dirty condition of the water. The larval food seems to be the débris
at the bottom of the holes, as well as dead mosquito and other larve,
and cast larval and pupal skins. In one instance the larve had
accomplished the complete disintegration of a rat-tailed maggot, and
the writer has seen them render the skin of the beetle larva just re-
ferred to transparent. On several occasions larvee were seen inside
the skin. They were taken also at Woodstock under similar con-
ditions, that is, in holes containing water in living trees.

The larva (fig. 3, c), when full grown, is 4.7 mm. in length and very
slender. It has 12 segments exclusive of the head, the two segments
following the head together being about the length of each of the
other segments. It is white in color, threadlike, and has a brownish
head. Locomotion is undulatory. The larve frequently come to
the surface and then descend, squirming along the bottom
of a jar and apparently never remaining quiet, as does the
larva of Culex at times. Some of the larve were carried
through the winter in a room which was moderately cool,
but seldom near freezing. From these over-wintered
larve adults issued April 27 to May 8, 1905. Later inves-
tigation may prove that the larve freeze up just as do the
larvee of some mosquitoes, then thaw out in the spring
and complete their life cycle.

THE PUPA.

The pupa (fig. 3, e) is 3.01 mm. in length and 0.84 mm.
in breadth. It is of a brown color, a little more than
half as long as the mature larva, but much stouter, and rie. 5.—Pupa
has eight abdominal segments, each succeeding segment — Gon varicolon
being narrowed to the last, which is bifurcated, the clasp- jeeaed ttle
ers being 0.35 mm. in length. It is provided with two = °°":
short breathing tubes. In this stage the insect does not move fre-
quently, remaining in a perpendicular position in the water just below
the surface. For comparison the figure of an allied species,
Ceratopogon varicolor Coq. (fig. 5), from Bellport, N. Y., is reproduced
from Plate I, Volume V, of the Proceedings of the Entomological
Society of Washington.

The known distribution, gathered from specimens in the U. S.
National Museum collection, is as follows: Plummers Island, Md.,
June 6 (H.S. Barber); Medina, Ohio, August 5 (J.S. Hine); Blue-
mont, Va., July 29 and 30, and Woodstock, Va., August 8 and 9 (F.C.
Pratt); Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona, July 8 (E. A. Schwarz).

A specimen of Ceratopogon guttipennis has recently (April 13, 1906)
been reared from a larva collected from water in a hollow living tree

26 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

at Dallas, Tex., April 9, 1906, under conditions similar to those at
Bluemont and Woodstock, Va. This water had been frozen during
the winter.
OTHER SPECIES OF CERATOPOGON.
There are nearly one hundred known species of Ceratopogon repre-
sented in the U. S. National Museum collection, and several species
besides the one under discussion are known to bite, among them

FG. 6.—Ceratopogon stellifer: Adult. Highly magnified (original).

CO. sanguisuga Coq., C. stellifer Coq., C. variipennis Coq., C. wnicolor
Coq., and (. cinctus Coq. Many others will undoubtedly be found to
have similar habits.

CO. sanguisuga Coq. has been collected at the following localities:
Marlboro, Md., May 13 (H. S. Barber); Woodside, Md., October 12
(J. E. Benedict, jr.); Kaslo, British Columbia, June 29 (H. G. Dyar).

(. stellifer Coq. (fig. 6) is a little smaller than C. guttipennis and is
a most notorious biter. Its distribution, as shown by specimens in
the U. S. National Museum, is as follows: District of Columbia, May
12, June 6, September 9(H.S. Barber, collector) ; Fairfax Che Vas
August 18 (J. E. Boe 3s gr.e) Cormthy Miss., August 19, ul
Athens, Tenn., August 22 (H. 8. Barber); Las Vegas Hot Spruce
N. Mex., August 7, 11, sini 19, and Hot Springs, Ariz., June 27 (H. S.
Barber).

C. variipennis Coq. A female of this species was collected while
sucking blood by W. P. Cockerell at Las Vegas, N. Mex., May, 1902,
and has been collected at Westville, N. J., in June, by J. B. Smith
and on July 2 by C. W. Johnson; also at Richmond, Va., by Mrs.
A. T. Slosson, and at Mexico City, Mexico, by O. W. Barrett.

QO. unicolor Coq. has been taken at Eureka and Fieldbrook, Hum-
boldt County, Cal., by H. S. Barber in May and June.

CO. cinctus Coq. was found at Lake Worth and Biscayne Bay, Fla. ;
by Mrs. A. T. Slosson, who braved its biting in order to collect speci-
mens of it. j

NOTES ON ‘‘ PUNKIES.”’ ae

C. websteri Coq. was collected April 17, 1887, by Prof. F. M. Web-
ster at Ashwood, La., on bushes in company with a species of Si-
mulium.

C. mutabilis Coq., reared from human excrement by the writer in
the District of Columbia June 17, occurs also at Jacksonville, Fla.
(Mrs. A. T. Slosson, collector).

C. griseus Coq. was captured on human excrement by the writer at
Travilah, Md., in June. It has been collected also in Florida and
Arizona, and Prof. T. D. A. Cockerell found it on a horse at Pecos,
N. Mex. This species, as well as C. mutabilis, were recorded by
Dr. L. O. Howard in an article on the insect fauna of human excre-
ment as ‘“‘Ceratopogon species.”’ @

C. specularis Coq. was reared by Mr. C. L. Marlatt from horse and
cow manure during his investigation on the horn fly (/«ematobia
serrata R.-D.) in Virginia in 1889. It has been collected also at
Springfield, Mass. (Dimmock); Philadelphia, Pa., June 28, and
Natrona, Pa., July 30 (C. W. Johnson); District of Columbia, August
11 (F.C. Pratt); Woodside, Md., October 12 (J. E. Benedict, jr.); War-
renton, Va., August 23, and Rosslyn, Va., December 30 (C. L. Mar-
latt), and in Colorado. :

W. H. Long? found larve of this species on the under side of dry
cow dung from August to December, but more abundantly during
November and December, in company with C. brumalis at Austin,
Tex.

C. brumalis Long. Mr. W. H. Long writes of this species as fol-
lows: °

During November, December, and January the larvze of this species were found in
immense numbers on the under side of nearly dry cow dung. They seem to feed on
the dung, never penetrating very far into the substance. No eggs were found. The
duration of the larval stage seems to be several weeks, that of the pupal stage seven
to ten days. * * * Several hundred larvee of all ages were found on the under
surface of a piece of moist rotting elm wood; similar larvee and puparia were also
found in the nests of the common foraging ant (Eciton cecum) on several different
occasions,

Mr. Long states that he reared imagines from larve taken in these
various situations and they proved to be the same species. It is
known from Austin, Tex.

C. stenammatis Long. Long writes of this species as follows:¢

The specimens were received from Dr. W. M. Wheeler, who found them in the nest
of an ant (Stenamma fulvum subsp. aquia) at Colebrook, Conn., August, 1900. They
were moving about in the refuse heaped up by the ants in certain portions of their
nests. The species seems to be a genuine myrmecophile like the European species
(C. Braueri Wasmann).

@ Proc. Wash. Acad. Sci., Vol. II, p. 559, 1900.

b Biol. Bul., Vol. III, pp. 7-10, figs. 3-6 (in part), 1902.
cL. c., Vol. III, pp. 3-7, figs. 1, 2, 6 (in part).

dL. c., p. 10, figs. 4, 6 (in part).

28 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

C. teranus Long.

The larv:e of this species are gregarious in small numbers beneath the bark of old
dead trees in moist places, or on the under side of very damp rotting woed during
December and January. Rare.a

Austin, Tex.

C. wheeleri Long. Adults of this species have not been reared on
account of a proctotrypid parasite (Adeliopria longi Ashm.).

The Ceratopogon puparia were found December 15, 1900, beneath a stone, in what
seemed to he an abandoned ant’s nest. The parasites issued, one from the thoracic
dorsum of each of the Ceratopogon puparia December 31 and lived eight or ten days.®

Austin, Tex.

The late Dr. O. Lugger® calls attention to the ‘‘cussedness”’ of
an unidentified species and gives a figure which may possibly be C.
stellifer. Ceratopogon has also been recorded as breeding under
leaves and in flowing sap from trees; thus the group is seen to have
diversified habits.

In Europe, Professor Mik? described as Ceratopogon hippocastama
a hairy-winged species having a footless larva, found in the very
moist or wet ulcerous parts of stems of horse-chestnut (4sculus
hippocastanum).

OTHER BLOOD-SUCKING CHIRONOMIDZ.

A related form which may be mistaken for Ceratopogon is Z'cacta
furens Poey, taken in June at Cardenas, Cuba, by Mr. EK. A. Schwarz,
and at Montserrat, West Indies, April 8, by Mr. H. G. Hubbard. It
was also taken at Perihueta and Laguna Carmen, Mexico, by Dr.
Alfredo Dugés.

Another related form, Tersesthes torrens Towns., described by Prof.
C. H. T. Townsend é with notes on habits, has been collected at the
following localities: Filmore Canyon, and Las Vegas Hot Springs,
N. Mex. (Townsend); Fort Grant, Ariz., July 19 (H. G. Hubbard);
Ash Fork, Ariz., June 18 (H. S. Barber); Lake Worth, Fla. (Mrs.
A. T. Slosson); Salt Lake, Utah (H. S. Barber), and Baracoa, Cuba,
August (A. Busck).

Mr. Barber has collected from thirty to forty species of Ceratopogon
and states that Tersesthes is much worse as a pest than any Cera-
topogon he has ever encountered.

ajong. L.c., pp. 10-12, figs..5, 6 (in part).

b Long. L.c., pp. 12-14, fig. 5 (in part).

¢Second Rept. Ent. of Minn. Exp. Sta., pp. 171-172, fig. 142, 1896.
@ Wiener Ent. Ziet., Vol. VII, pp. 183-192, Pl. II, 1888.

€ Psyche, Vol. VI, pp. 369-371, pl. 8, 1893.

U. S. D. A., B. BE. Bui. 64, Part IV. Issued January 14, 1908.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF APION, WITH
NOTES ON RELATED FORMS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

In economic works of European authors a very considerable number
of species of Apion are mentioned in connection with injuries to cul-
tivated plants, and particularly to the Papilionacezw, for which a
large proportion of species show a preference. Certain European
forms are sufficiently abundant to receive common English names,
among which are the clover weevil, the Dutch-clover yellow-legged
weevil, the cinquefoil weevil, the tare or vetch weevil, and others,
the popular name being indicative of each insect’s food habits.

None of our native species, so far as known to the writer, has hith-
erto been recorded as injuring useful plants; hence a note received
from Mr. James K. Metcalfe, Silver City, N. Mex., of injuries to for-
age plants by Apion griseum Sm. is of interest.

APION GRISEUM Sm.

September 25, 1899, our correspondent sent seedpods of the Met-
calfe bean (Phaseolus retusus), together with specimens of the beetle.
This weevil was stated to be very destructive to this plant, which has
been mentioned by Dr. Jared G. Smith as one of the most promising
of our native forage plants. The weevil was said to be also destruc-
tive to the “ Raphael” bean (Phaseolus wrightii), and we have
received the same species from Phaseolus beans from Tolima, Mexico.

This species has also been observed by the writer to develop in the
seedpods of a wild bean, Phaseolus polystachyus (perennis). FEight-
een individuals were found on opening a pod of this plant at Ross-
lyn, Va., April 22. One seed had harbored eleven Apions, all of
which perished owing to their inability to escape from the pod,

“Yearbook, U. S. Department of Agriculture, for 1897, p. 506.
29

30) MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

which had evidently died prematurely as a result of overinfestation
by the weevils. Pods were examined during the first week of October,
and at this time half of those gathered were infested. The sound
pods may be easily separated from the infested ones, since the latter
are flattened, discolored, and sometimes even distorted, while sound
and fully matured pods are full and round like a diminutive pea-pod.
Most individuals were in the pupal condition at the last-mentioned
period. The adults, like others of the genus, feed upon the leaves,
piercing them with innumerable holes, from 20 to as many as 60 such
punctures being sometimes visible on a single small leaf.

The insect hibernates in the beetle condition, escapes from the pod
about May or June, or earlier if the pod happens to crack, and the
punctures made upon the early appearance of the insect are plainly
visible in October.

Careful comparison of the writer’s reared material of Apion griseum
with typical specimens in the U. S. National Museum (some of which
appear to be types) of A. fraternum, identified as such by Dr. J. B.
Smith, who described that species, shows that this is the same insect
which was found by Dr. C. V. Riley on Strophostyles (Phaseolus)
paucifilora as cited by Smith. The identity of these two forms has
also been recognized by Fall in his revision of the genus.”

The chaleidid fly Catolaccus incertus Ashm. was reared from in-
fested pods, and is undoubtedly parasitic on this Apion.

APION COLON Sharp.

February 6, 1903, Dr. Edward Palmer furnished specimens of this
species collected at Alvarez, San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on a species of
wild bean with scarlet flowers and tuberous
roots, which is used as a cure for hydrophobia
(Palmer’s No. 63).

This species is not known to occur in our lim-
its, but is mentioned because of possible economic
importance.

The accompanying illustration (fig. 7) repre-
sents a European species, and will assist the av-
erage student of entomology in recognizing wee-
vils of the genus. Upward of 100 species of the
genus Apion have been recognized in America

Fic. 7.—Apion assi- 3 ;
mile, greatly en- north of Mexico, and most of these are minute

ae or almost microscopic. It follows, therefore, as

there is considerable generic resemblance throughout, that these
many different forms are difficult of differentiation, both sexes being
frequently required to make specific determination. The body is

aTrans. Amer. Ent. Soc., Vol. XXV, p. 147, 1898.

AN INJURIOUS NORTH AMERICAN APION, ETC. ol

elongate pyriform, or pear-shaped; the rostrum or beak is more or
less prolonged in front of the eyes, and the head back of the eyes is
usually constricted, forming a neck. The antenne are delicate and
elbowed. :

NOTES ON RELATED FORMS.

The following observations on other species of Apion are chiefly
from the writer’s personal experience, and all rearings should be so
credited, with the exception of those where the collector or observer
is mentioned :

Apion wneipenne Sm.—During the first two weeks of June nu-
merous examples of this species were obtained at Rosslyn, Va., by
beating a common tick-trefoil (Meibomia |[Desmodium]). When
the beetles were confined with leaves they riddled them with minute
holes after the manner of the commoner A. nigrum on locust.

Apion turbulentum Sm.—This species was observed during the
latter half of September in and near Cabin John, Md., and in con-
siderable numbers on Jeibomia marylandica. The beetles were
humerous, occurring on the seeds, in which they undoubtedly live,
although they were not reared.

Apion cribricolle Lec.—We have, among the Department notes,
one on the rearing of this beetle from a species of lotus (Lotus
[Zosackia| glabra) from Henwood, Santa Cruz County, Cal.

Apion proclive Lec.—July 18, 1898, Mr. E. M. Ehrhorn reported
that this species was infesting the pods of Lupinus arborea at Pacific
Grove, Cal., where nearly every pod showed signs of attack. A
similar attack to lupine was reported by Mr. Ehrhorn in 1907 at
San Francisco, Cal. The beetles issued September 5-19. The species
proves to be parasitized by a chaleidid.

Apion patruele Sm.—This species was found abundantly on a
climbing wild legume at Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island, N. Y., in
July. The plant at this time was in bloom, and there is little doubt
that the larva inhabits the pods.

Apion segnipes Say.—The writer has reared from this species,
found in its well-known food plant, the goat’s rue (Cracca [Teph-
rosia| virginiana), the chalcidid parasite Kurytoma tylodermatis
Ashm., in August, in Maryland, near the District of Columbia. The
writer has also reared this species from its larva found in the cells of
Tyloderma foveolatum in October. There is fair indication, there-
fore, of two generations.

Apion decoloratum Sm.—This species breeds in the seed pods of
the genus Meibomia. Beetles have been reared from J/. paniculata
and MW. grandiflora, and exit holes have been observed in pods of all
of the species of this genus of plants that have come under observation
in Maryland and Virginia about Washington. The beetles began

oe MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

issuing from the pods September 21, and most of those in the field had
escaped by the end of the month. Stragglers, however, continued to
issue from the material gathered until the end of October. Mr. Fall
states that “ Mr. Wickham has found the species in some abundance
on Desmodium in Iowa City.” Catolaccus incertus Ashm. was reared
with this species.

Apion herculanum Sm. was reared July 24-28 from the dried fruit
of sheepberry (Viburnum lentago), and beetles were taken in the
same locality, Marshall Hall, Md., in May on V’. acerifoliwm in bloom.
At Ithaca, N. Y., it was taken in fair abundance on the flowers of
this same plant, collected May 28, June 5-20, and July 2-6 several
years previously. Mr. Schwarz informs the writer that he has
reared the species also from dogwood (Cornus sp.).

WoS.D. A... B, BH. Bul: 64; Part. Vv, Issued May 29, 19(8.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS.

3y EF. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

For many years the Bureau of Entomology has conducted corre-
spondence in regard to insects found on the loco weeds of the semiarid
regions of the West. In earlier years these insects were found chiefly
on purple or woolly loco, Astragalus mollissimus, and more recently
on the white loco, Avagallus lamberti. It was at one time supposed by
stockmen that the insects might be the cause of the poisoning to sheep,
cattle, and other stock, but such is not the case.

The general subject of loco poisoning to stock has been treated in
various publications, but the insect inhabitants of the weeds have
never received mention in this connection, with the exception of the
false-indigo gall-moth,? which is apparently the principal insect de-
stroyer of the loco. Numbers of correspondents and observing bota-
nists have noticed that the caterpillar of this insect, which feeds at the
roots and crowns of locos, is quite instrumental in reducing their abun-
dance. Recently Dr. C. Dwight Marsh, Bureau of Plant Industry,
has collected many insects on locos and expresses the opinion that sev-
eral other species are concerned in this work. Chief among these are
-the fickle midge,’ the loco root-maggot,’ the four-lined loco weevil,*
and the spotted root fly. Of these the root-maggot, midge, and root
fly are probably in the main attracted to the plants after the gall-
moth has first caused injury, but the weevil also attacks living roots,
usually, however, according to observations, after the plant has pro-
duced its quota of seed.

The following account of loco insects has been prepared from the
records of the Bureau of Entomology, much of the material having
also been supplied by Doctor Marsh, and in the list which follows it

@Walshia amorphella Clem. 4Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevr.
» Sciara inconstans Fitch. © Buresta notata Wied.
© Pegomya lupini Coq.

33

34 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

will be understood that the locality Hugo, Colo., is the one in which
he collected specimens for identification. This account does not pre-
tend to be an exhaustive one, but is more in the nature of a list, with
notes on such species as appear to be concerned in killing out the weed.
Considering the toxic qualities of the locos, the insects which affect
them, with some exceptions, may be classified as highly beneficial,
since the species which have just been mentioned have in some cases
completely rid large areas of loco weeds.

THE FALSE-INDIGO GALL-MOTH.
(Walshia amorphella Clem.)

Prior to 1886 the larva of this species was known onry as a gall
maker on the stems of false indigo (Amorpha fruticosa) and was
described from moths reared from that plant in 1864. An account
of the species and _ its
habits was afterwards
given by Riley in 1870.*
He stated that as the
twigs invariably with-
ered and died above the
gall, and as the shrub
was of no special value,
the species might be
placed among our harm-
less insects. In early
records of the Bureau
Fic. 8.—False-indigo gall-moth (Walshia amorphella): a, Fe- of Entomology there are

male moth; 0, larva; c, gall in false indigo, showing exit Numerous references to
bole nas op 2. gall opened owing larretnaitt 629 this species and it8 OC
currence on false indigo.

In 1886 a second food plant, Astragalus mollissimus, was recorded.”

This moth (fig. 8, @) belongs to the family Tineide and has a wing
expanse of about half an inch. It is grayish yellow, spotted with
dark brown, and both wings are camel as in others of this group,
with very long posterior fringes, longer than the wings themselves.
The larva or caterpillar (fig. 8, 6) 1s yellowish white, with the head
and thoracic plate dark brown. It measures from a third to two-
fifths of an inch in length.

Our records of the distribution of this species show that it has been
observed most commonly from Towa and Missouri westward to Cali-
fornia, although it occurs also in the Atlantic region. It is quite

@9nd Rept. State Ent. Mo., pp. 132-133.
> Proc. Ent. Soc. Wash., Vol. I, p. 30.

a

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 35

singular that the larva should have the dual habit of forming galls
on a shrub, as in the case of its occurrence eastward, and at the same
time boring into the roots of weeds, as is its western habit. From
the experience of many persons who have been in correspondence with
this office in regard to the habits of this insect, there can be no hesita-
tion in reiterating that it is the most potent element in the destruction
of the loco weed of the West. In this connection it may be well to
mention briefly what some of our correspondents have reported. Mr.
Thomas J. Quillian, Birmingham, Colo., wrote, April 9, 1889, that
from observations conducted by himself and a fellow stockgrower he
was led to believe that possibly the “ worms ” eaten by the stock pro-
duced the craziness (and sometimes death) instead of the plant, as
was generally supposed, this conclusion being more plausible because
upon opening the dead animals many “ worms” were always found.
-Mr. D. H. Marum, Woodward, Okla., has written that in that vicinity
the plants begin to die about the last week in May. At that time the
small “ worms” are found in the roots, which they hollow out com-
pletely, leaving practically nothing but a shell. He suggested the
possibility of propagating these and other loco insects with a view
to destroying the weed. Mr. Thomas Carson, Bovina, Tex., writing
of the great loss in cattle in that section, stated that this insect, which
he had observed devouring the heart of the loco, was very efficient in
reducing the abundance of this noxious weed and had proved very
beneficial to the cattle interests. In closing, it should be added that
in the extreme west, as, for example, at Alameda, Cal., this species has
been observed breeding on Lupinus arborea.

THE LOCO ROOT-MAGGOT.
(Pegomya lupini Coa.)

The loco root-maggot has been prominent among insects found
feeding on the roots of Astragalus mollissimus for a number of years.
Doctor Marsh says that in the neighborhood of Hugo, Colo., it is
apparently the most important agent in the suppression of the pur-
ple loco. It is probable that it will rank second to the false-indigo
gall-moth as a destroyer of this plant. On this head Mr. George
Hochderffer, Flagstaff, Ariz., who, on April 7, 1907, sent specimens
found at the roots of the plant, stated that hundreds of acres of loco
had been destroyed by this insect, and he believed not only that it
might prove to be a valuable friend to stockmen, but that it had
already proven so.

It is the larva of a species of anthomyiid fly closely related to the
seed-corn maggot,’ the adult being readily distinguished from that

“ Pegomya fusciceps Zett,

36 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

of the latter by the long bristles on the underside of the posterior
femora or hind thighs. It was described in 1901 from flies obtained
from the stems of Lupinus alba from Los Angeles, Cal. This species
resembles the common house fly, though more slender and of a more
distinctly gray color. The larvae are white maggots and resemble the
seed-corn maggot. They infest chiefly the crown of the plant, seldom,
if ever, entering the roots, but penetrating into the larger stems;
sometimes, it is reported, going as far as the base of the flowers.

We have records of the rearing of this species from A. mollissimus -
from material collected at Sherlock, Kans., and from Lupinus arborea
at Alameda, Cal.,in April. In June, 1887, it was received from New
Mexico with statement by Dr. V. Havard that it was breeding in
the roots of A. mollissimus. At this time we were conducting con-
siderable correspondence with Doctor Havard in regard to the insect
enemies of this plant in Kansas, New Mexico, and Texas. Doctor
Havard stated, among other things, that at that time it was some-
what generally believed that “ locoism ” on the part of stock animals
was due, not to any deleterious property of the plants, but to the
larvee of insects found abundantly in the stems and roots. In all
specimens received by him from New Mexico the stems, without ex-
ception, were bored by the larve of this species. Fles from this last
lot began issuing June 10. In May, 1905, and January, 1908, this
species was again received from locos from Hugo, Colo. In that
locality it was associated with H'uxesta notata and Sciara inconstans.

THE FICKLE MIDGE.
(Sciara inconstans Fitch).

This minute gnat-like fly was reared from purple loco received from
Hugo, Colo., in 1906, the adults issuing May 24. During 1907-8 addi-
tional specimens were received from the same source. Doctor Marsh
has expressed the behef that this species, with the larger maggot, Pe-
gomya lupini Coq., is one of the chief causes of the destruction and
apparent temporary extermination of this loco weed in that section
of Colorado. The members of the family to which it belongs, the
Mycetophilid, are for the most part scavengers, feeding on decom-
posing vegetable matter, including fungous growths, whence their
name of “ fungus gnats.” Taken as a whole, however, the family dis-
plays great diversity in habits and the present species is the most
widely distributed and most nearly omnivorous of its kind. It feeds
on vegetation of almost all forms, occurring destructively in green-
houses, as also in the open, in cultivated and uncultivated regions.
It appears to be most abundant in the Northern States.

4 Wnt. News, September, 1901, pp. 206-207,

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. ot

The insect is shown in its different stages, highly magnified, in
figure 9. The size is indicated by the hairlines at the right of the
figure. It will be noticed that the female fly (¢) is larger than the

Fie. 9.—Fickle midge (Sciara inconstans) : a, Male fly ; b, external genital organs of male ;
c, female; d, enlarged antennal joints of same; ce, maxillary palpus of same; f, tip of
abdomen of female from side; g, pupa, ventral view; h, larva, dorsal view. 4, ¢, g, h,
Much enlarged; b, d, e, f, more enlarged. (Author’s illustration.)

male. The latter (a) is recognized by its claspers, shown much en-

larged at 6. The larva is a delicate, thread-like maggot of milk-white

color with a jet-black head. On account of its minute size—about 4

of an inch in length—its presence is very

frequently unnoticed in greenhouses, al-
though the flies are more conspicuous, from
their habit of flying about on the “ glass.”

In some cases this species is confused with

nematodes or eel-worms.”

THE FOUR-LINED LOCO WEEVIL.
(Cleonus quadrilineatus Chevy.)

This curculionid weevil was found breed-
ing in considerable numbers on Avagallus
lamberti at Hugo, Colo., during 1907, by
Dr. C. D. Marsh, who reports very appre-
clable injury. As a rule, however, this

Fic. 10.—Four-lined loco weevil species does not occur in numbers until
(Cleonus quadrilineatus): Adult.
Much enlarged (original).

after the plants have made good growth
and have seeded.

This beetle, (fig. 10) measures about half an inch in length; has a
stout rostrum or beak, a little shorter than the thorax; is black, and
densely coated with gray pubescence alternating with two pairs of
longitudinal black lines, one subsutural and the other submarginal.

“A more complete account of this insect appeared in Bul, 27, n. s., Div. Ent.,
U. S. Dept, Agric., pp. 108-113, 1901,

88 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Practically nothing is known of the life history of any species of
the genus, of which there are quite a number. The beetles are par-
tial to Astragalus and Aragallus and feed also on lupines and related
plants. The larve are undoubtedly root or stalk feeders. The pres-
ent species in the larval stage affects the roots and transforms in the
ground in comparatively large earthen cocoons, such as are shown in
the illustration (fig. 11).

Fic. 11.—Four-lined loco weevil (Cleonus quadrilineatus) : Cocoon. (Original.)

‘THE YELLOW LOCO FLY.

(Tritoxa incurva Loew.)

This species was collected at Hugo, Colo., on Aragallus lamberti.
It is a two-winged fly of the family Ortalidz and is recorded as
having the same habits as the black onion fly (Z'ritova flexa Wied.),
whose larva or maggot lives in the bulbs of onions; indeed, it was at
one time considered a color variety of the latter. The wing markings
are almost identical, but the face, thorax, and most of the abdomen
are brownish yellow, whereas in the onion fly these parts are black.
Its body is about one-third of an inch long, each wing having a little
shorter measurement. Neither species under consideration is, as a
rule, especially abundant, but both are capable of being very destruc-
tive to plant life when they multiply in numbers, as may happen any
year in some localities.

THE SPOTTED ROOT FLY.
(Huxesta notata Wied.)

This pretty little fly of omnivorous habits was reared from Astra-
galus mollissimus from Hugo, Colo., in June and July, 1905, being
associated with the fickle midge and the loco root-maggot. In its

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 39

larval stage it displays a remarkable diversity of habits, although it
‘is evidently by choice a root feeder and is also, with the seed-corn
maggot and many related insects, a scavenger by nature, following in
some cases original attack by some other. form of insect. It has been
recorded by Dr. L. O. Howard as having been bred from larvae in
human excrement in houses and out of doors. Mr. E. G. Titus has
reared it from sugar beet collected at Olney, Colo., and from cockle-
bur collected at St. Matthews, S. C., where it was feeding in the cells
of a weevil, Baris transversa. In September, 1905, it was reared by
the writer from onions infested by 7ritova fleza from Williamson
School, Pa., and there is positive evidence that it had fed on the
onion bulbs, as neither stems nor leaves were present. Dr. J. B.
Smith also has reared it from onions. In 1906 it was reared from
corn on the farm of Dr. B. T. Galloway near the District of Colum-
bia, where it was reported injurious, the injury being at first attrib-

Fic. 12.—Spotted root fly (Huresta notata) : Adult male at right; female at left.

Much enlarged (original). -

uted to the seed-corn maggot, as attack was to seed corn and resem-
bled the work of the latter species. From cabbage it has been reared
on two occasions, viz, from the roots collected at Washington, D.
C., and from maggot-infested roots received from Bethel, Alaska.
It has also been bred from the pulp of Osage orange, from apples in-
fested by the codling moth, from sumach fruit, from the bolls of
cotton, and from Solanum. It is not rare in diseased cotton bolls.

This fly belongs to the same family as the preceding, the Ortali-
dee, and is shown in figure 12, where it will be seen that it has a large
head and flat body. Each wing is marked with two black spots.
The female is distinguished from the male by its more slender form,
smaller head, and pointed abdomen, which bears near the anal ex-
tremity a distinct white transverse band. The body is metallic blue.

Our rearings show that larve have come under observation from
May 27 to as late as October 2 and that flies have issued from various
sources June 10—July 30, September 8-21, and throughout October.

78936°—Bull. 64—11——4

40 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

THE BUR-CLOVER APHIS.
(Aphis medicaginis Koch.)

This species is well known to attack both Astragalus and Aragallus,
as well as various other related plants, including clover, cowpea,
alfalfa, coffee bean (Cassia), bur-clover, Caragana arborescens,
Robinia viscosa, Melilotus italica, and Glycyrrhiza lepidota. Wt has
also been observed on oxalis, and on cotton associated with the
common and more destructive cotton or melon aphis.

Certain of our correspondents have remarked on the occurrence
of ladybirds and ants on infested loco plants, conclusive evidence
in the case of the ladybirds, Hippodamia convergens Guér., that
aphides were present.

The present species has a considerable literature, having been de-
scribed in 1857 and afterwards treated more or less fully by Monell,
Thomas, Oestlund, Cowen, Osborn, Hunter,“ and Sanderson.

A somewhat complete account of this aphis was given by Sanderson
in 1906, including a consideration of its food plants and descriptions
of different stages as well as references to literature. Still other
bibliographical references have been given by Hunter. This species
is evidently of foreign origin and was first noticed in this country at
St. Louis, Mo., by Monell in 1879.

THE MEAL SNOUT-MOTH.
(Pyralis farinalis L.)

During July, 1907, a colony of the larva of this beautiful pyralid
moth was observed by the writer breeding in the roots of Astragalus
mollissimus received from Hugo, Colo. Since the species is of cosmo-
politan distribution and commonly
found in most barns, storehouses, and
even in dwellings, it can not be posi-
tively stated that it attacks loco roots
in the open, but it quite likely infests
the dead roots. Frequently this spe-
cies breeds in clover hay, after the
Pig 18 Mea asa GE Cee es of the clover-hay worm,’ to

nalis): a, Moth; b, larva; ¢, chrysali, Which it is related. As a rule the
natural size; d, head of raya é, anal larva requires for its development a
segment of larva; f, tip of pupa. En- 5 3 R
larged (author’s illustration). certain amount of moisture, feeding
on dry material which has become
heated, as in the case of stored grain or stacked hay. This species is
shown natural size, the moth at @ and the larva at 5 of figure 13.
More complete accounts of the meal snout-moth are given elsewhere.?

“Bul. 60, lowa Agr. Exp. Sta., The Aphididze of North America, 1901, p. 101.

» Bul. 57, Bur. Ent., U.S. Dept. Agr., pp. 26-29.

© Hypsopygia (Asopia) costalis Fab.

@See Yearbook U.S. Department of Agriculture for 1894, p. 286, and Farmers’
Bulletin 45, pp. 10, 11.

INSECTS INJURIOUS TO THE LOCO WEEDS. 41

PLANT-BUGS, LEAFHOPPERS, ETC.

Numerous plant-bugs, leafhoppers, and related insects were ob-
served and collected at Hugo, Colo. As a considerable portion of
these were in the nymph or immature stages, comparatively few
were identified specifically. The list follows:

Alydus eurinus Say and A. pluto Uhl., coreid plant-bugs bearing some relation
to the squash bug, were among the number. The former has been recorded
attacking Lima beans and cowpeas; hence, it is quite probable that both feed
on loco and lupines, which are of the same botanical family.

Dasycoris humilis Uhl., another coreid of unknown habits.

Geocoris griseus Dall., a plant-bug of the family Lygmide.

Hadronema militaris Uhl., a small capsid or leaf-bug. It infests Amaranthus
and beets. Probably accidental.

Stiphrosoma atrata Uhbl., also a capsid, of unknown habits.

Philenus bilineatus Say, a cercopid leafhopper which probably feeds on
grasses.

Deltocephalus flexulosus Ball, a jassid leafhopper.

Bruchomorpha dorsata Fitch, a fulgorid.

Nabis ferus L., a predatory form. It doubtless destroys many of the other
bugs, especially in their, immature stages.

MISCELLANEOUS INSECTS.

Agromyza cneiventris Fallen, a small fly, was reared from pup2 at the
roots of Aragallus from Flagstaff, Ariz., received in April, 1907, from Mr. Geo.
Hochderffer. We have office records of the rearing of this species from the
roots of clover and from larvze found in burrows
in the stems of Ambrosia. The fly was reared
by the writer from mines in garden peas col-
lected at Washington, D. C., August 10, 1904.

The insects issued July 30. Pea leaves are, in
fact, quite often infested by this miner.

Unknown leaf-beetle-—December 14, 1901,

Mr. D. P. Marum, Woodward, Okla., wrote of

an insect which fed upon the leaves of Astra-
galus mollissimus. During April of that year

he noticed that a few stems in each hill of loco vA
were stripped of leaves, and found on the plants ;
a small beetle which he believed to be a lady- — py¢. 14. Bruchus obsoletus : a, Beetle:
bird, although it did not have the bright spots b, antenna; ¢, prothorax. a,c, Much
known to be present on Coccinellide inhabiting enlarged; b, more enlarged. (From
that region. a)

Bruchus obsoletus Say (fig. 14) was stated by its describer to have been
found on a species of Astragalus, but recent researches show that the plant in
question was a related one, the goats’ rue, Cracca (Tephrosia) virginiana.®

Bruchus aureolus Horn.—Recorded as occurring on the flowers of Astragalus
in Owens Valley, Cal. (Insect Life, Vol. V., pp. 166, 167).

Unknown hymenopterous gall—Among other material collected at Hugo,
Colo., were stems of Aragallus lamberti containing elongated fusiform galls
one-half to one inch in length and about one-third that in width. Each of these
contained a single large hymenopterous larva; these, however, were not reared.

*An illustration of this insect and its food plant were furnished in the
Annual Report of the Department of Agriculture for 1892, p. 172, Pl. VII,

49 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Rusticus (Lycena) aemon Doubl. & Hew. This very pretty blue butterfly
was reared from Astragalus mollissimus from Hugo, Colo., the adult issuing
July 20, 1906. Nothing has been published in regard to the natural habits of
this species, and it is not known if it plays any important part in the reduction
of the loco weeds.

Grasshoppers and related insects were collected in some numbers at Hugo,
Colo., on Aragallus lamberti. They were mostly in the nymph condition and
therefore could not be readily identified. There were two species of grasshop-
pers (Melanoplus spp.), each occurring in about equal numbers, and a smaller
grasshopper (Opeia obscura Scudd.), a walking stick (Parabacillus coloradus
Seudd.) and a tree-cricket (Gcanthus sp.). Probably none of these accom-
plishes much in the line of defoliation of the loco with the exception of the two
Melanopli, which are allied to the pernicious Rocky mountain locust.

Aphiocheta pygmea Zett.—This small fly, which belongs to the Phoridse, was
reared from Astragalus mollissimus, from Hugo, Colo., July, 1906, from roots in
which other species were breeding. This is a European species known from
Texas westward to California.

In the compilation of the above list the writer is indebted to Mr.
D. W. Coquillett for assistance in identifying some of the Diptera
mentioned, to Mr. Otto Heidemann for the identifications of the
plant-bugs, leafhoppers, ete., and to Mr. A. N. Caudell for naming
the grasshoppers and related insects.

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VI. Issued August 4, 1909.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS.
(Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis Bouché.)
By H. M. Russet,

Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

This insect has been known since 1833 to have been the cause of
rauch injury to greenhouse plants; but its life history has never been
fully worked out.¢ The writer, while engaged in field work in the
State of Florida during 1907, had his attention called to a “diseased”
condition of crotons in one of the greenhouses at Orlando. This
condition was found to be caused by the extreme abundance of a spe-
cies of thrips feeding on the foliage. Specimens of the adult were
sent to Dr. W. E. Hinds, who determined them to be /Heliothrips
hemorrhoidalis Bouché. While working under the direction of
Dr. F. H. Chittenden during the winter of 1907-8, the writer made a
study of this insect’s life history and the means by which it might be
controlled.

HISTORY.

The species was first described by Bouché,’ in 1833, as Thrips
hemorrhoidalis from specimens taken in a greenhouse in Europe. At
that time he wrote that he believed the native land of the species to
be America. That this supposition was correct appears evident at
the present time.

Packard, writing in 1870, described this species for the first time
from this country. He wrote: “This is one of the greatest pests in
our hothouses. It is the Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis of Burmeister.”
Packard called it the greenhouse thrips and gave a meager descrip-
tion of the larva and adult, and an illustration of the latter, but
neither descriptions nor drawing are exact enough to identify speci-
mens. He furnished a list of food plants, a description of injury,
and recommended washing plants with soapsuds as a remedy.

@The external and internal anatomy of this insect has been fully worked out by
several European entomologists, while others have made incomplete studies of the
life history on the Continent.

43

44 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Under the name Thrips adonidum, A. J. Cook," writing of this spe-
cies, in 1874, said: “Around Detroit, her at dua and in our south-
ern counties they are likewise a serious pest.”’

In 1882 Mr. Th. Pergande* recorded this insect as taken out of
doors at Washington, D. C., on apple late in November. J. A. Lint-
ner,’ in 1885, on this authority, lists it as an insect affecting the apple.

Nothing more was written about this species in this country until
1896, when G. C. Davis” wrote of ‘a black species, Heliothrips hemor-
rhoidalis, which we have found most common on croton plants. As
far as noticed its work is confined to the underside of the leaves,
where the spots are eaten, so that the work clearly resembles that of
the red spider.”

Dr. F. H. Chittenden, in 1902, predicted that this species, which
he called the “‘ greenhouse thrips,’’ would probably increase in num-
bers and destructiveness with time.

Hinds* wrote of this insect the same year: “It has been very inju-
rious in some places.’’ He also added that it was called the “black
fly” in Germany and that its life history was unknown.

RECENT RECORDS.

This species, determined by Mr. Pergande, was sent in to the
Bureau of Entomology, January 8, 1908, by Mr. P. J. Wester, of
Miami, Fla., who collected it on mango ( Mangifera indica). Hewrote:
“Tt has never appeared to do serious damage until this year.’
Mr. I. J. Condit, a collaborator of this bureau, at San Luis Obispo,
Cal., reported it injurious in a greenhouse at that place in September,
1908, and again reported it on November 2, 1908, as injurious to orna-
mentals in one of the parks at Santa Barbara, Cal.

NATURE AND EXTENT OF INJURY.

The damage caused by the greenhouse thrips is confined to the
foliage of ornamental plants entirely, in so far as the author is aware,
for he knows of no recorded injury to the blossoms of plants nor has
he noticed any. Injury effected by the thrips is due to the method of
feeding on the plants. Adults and larve both obtain their food by
puncturing the epidermis of the leaf with their sharp mouth-parts,@
and after lacerating the tissue they suck out tissue and plant juices
at the point of attack. The insects then attack the leaf in a new
place, so that in time it becomes full of tiny, pale-colored spots where
the tissue and chlorophyll have been extracted.

In the case of croton plants, upon which this insect was studied,
injury was noticed first on the older leaves and gradually, as these
became badly infested, pe a ury spread until the young leaves were

a For sienere af oe -parts see ‘‘The Pear Thrips,”’ by iivaiey Moulton, Bul. 68,
Part I, Bur. Ent., U.S. Dept. Agr., pp. 2-3, 1907.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 45

attacked, soon after unfolding. The infested leaves first showed
injury on the underside, where the surface appeared full of minute
white spots. As attack continued, these spots became more numer-
ous and united, forming blotches where the leaf was devoid of tissue.
The injury then became apparent from the upper side, as the surface
developed a twisted and distorted aspect between the lateral veins,
and was finally evidenced by wilted and dead areas around the edges
of the leaf. In severe attacks the insects spread to the upper sur-
face of the leaves, and in a short time this as well as the underside is
nearly devoid of color. Both surfaces become thickly covered with
minute drops of reddish fluid voided by the thrips, which gradually
change to black. As the attack continues, the leaves become limp and
yellow and eventually drop off, so that plants, that were not treated
to prevent injury in many cases lost their entire foliage. The injury
is similar on other ornamentals.

This insect injures plants in two ways: First, it causes a serious
drain on the vitality of the plant from the feeding of thousands of
thrips, so that the growth is seriously checked and in neglected cases
would cause the death of the plant. Secondly, it destroys the beauty
of the plants for ornament by despoiling them of their foliage.

ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION.

Although this insect was first described from Europe and is there
widely distributed, it is without doubt indigenous to tropical America.
Pergande* writes that this msect was ‘‘probably introduced with
ornamental plants from the warmer regions of America;’’ and that it
“is found upon wild and cultivated plants in Brazil.’ Franklin?’
records it in Barbados as follows: “‘ This species is found in the open
in St. Vincent and Barbados. It is evidently a tropical species.”’
This insect has been collected at Miami, Fla., on plants growing in the
open in midwinter. Moulton” says, ‘‘out of doors it feeds and be-
comes very destructive to Laurestinas.”’ Mr. Condit, writing of this
species from Santa Barbara, Cal., November 2, 1908, said that it was
doing considerable damage to ornamentals in one of the parks.

These records of occurrences at several localities in the Tropical and
Lower Austral life zones of this country point strongly to tropical
America as its original home. This is further strengthened because
of its well-known habit of living in greenhouses, in many localities,
upon exotic plants from the Tropics. From this habit it has become
widely distributed in Europe and North America. In Europe, Walker
and Cameron record it from several places in England, Bouché and
others from Germany, Heeger and Léw from Vienna, and Reuter
from Finland. It has also been recorded from France and Italy.

In this country it has been recorded from Massachusetts, from
several places in Michigan, and from Washington, D. C., Florida, and

46 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

California. It has been collected in Iowa and Pennsylvania and
recently in the Barbados and the island of St. Vincent.

Because of the fact that it has been collected in such widely dis-
tant places in all sections of the country, we can safely say that Heli-
othrips hemorrhoidalis is generally distributed in greenhouses through-
out the United States.

DESCRIPTION.

Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis belongs to the family Thripide, the
genus being characterized by having antenne.with 8 segments and
the body with a markedly reticulated surface. This is especially

Fia. 15.—Greenhouse thrips (Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis): Adult female, enlarged about 50 diameters,
and greatly enlarged drawing of antenna underneath. (Original.)

pronounced on the head and thorax. The legs are unarmed and
the wings are characterized by having the fore-wings broad at the
base, with 2 longitudinal veins.

The adult (fig. 15).—When the adult first emerges the abdomen is
pale yellow, with the head and thorax darker, and the antenna, legs,
and wings appearing white. In the course of several hours, however,
the insect becomes fully colored. The head and thorax are then
dark brown, the abdomen yellowish brown, fading at the apex to
brownish-yellow. In the female the antenne are twice as long as

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 47

the head. The total length is about 1.25 mm. and the greatest
width, across the mesothorax, is about 0.30 mm.

The male has not been described, and this species is without ques-
tion parthenogenetic for many generations.

The egg.—The egg (fig. 16,a) is bean-shaped, 0.296 mm. in length
and 0.088 mm. in width, very delicate, with a thin shell, and color-
less. Eggs are laid in the leaf tissue of the host plant, generally on
the underside.

The larva, first stage (fig. 16, b).—[Description made while larva was very young and
before it had commenced to feed on the plant.| Length, 0.31 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.10 mm. General shape fusiform; antennz, head, and legs very large in pro-
portion to the rest of the body. Color translucent white. Head large, quadrate; eyes
reddish, ocelli absent. Antenne 0.16 mm. in length; 7-segmented;> basal segment
cylindrical, short, with spine on inner side; second
segment twice as long as basal one and not as wide,
with 4 or 5 spines; third pedunculate, ringed, as
long as segments 1 and 2 combined, 2 long spines
near tip of segment; fourth pedunculate, nearly
twice as long as third, tip more slender than third,
ringed, a number of prominent spines near tip;
fifth, sixth, and seventh slender, equal in length,
and together equaling the length of the fourth, each
with one or two small spines near the tip. Legs
translucent white, long. Abdomen tapering pos-
teriorly; with 10 segments, the first 8 nearly equal
in length, ninth and tenth somewhat longer than
others. Each abdominal segment with longitudi-
nal rows of setee, the ninth with 2 and tenth with
4 spines that are three or four times the length of
the sete. Fic. 16.—Greenhouse thrips: a, Egg;

The larva, second stage.—Length, 0.90to0.97mm.; 9, larva, first stage; c, larva, full
width of mesothorax, 0.22 to0.23mm.; shapeabout peta ( reat a ie te
same as in first stage; body long, cylindrical, sides
nearly parallel until fifth abdominal segment, where they begin to taper to blunt point.
Color of thorax and abdomen slightly yellowish, last two segments of abdomen trans-
lucent white; alimentary tract plainly indicated by the brownish color given to it by
inclosed food; this extends from the metathorax to the sixth abdominal segment. Sur-
face of the body covered with minute granulations. Head quadrate, but with notch
behind the eyes on each side; eyes reddish, ocelliabsent. Antennz 7-segmented, third
and fourth distinctly spindle-shaped and annulated, fifth and sixth slightly annulated,
and together with seventh segment quite slender. Legs translucent white. Abdo-
men 0.50 mm. in length, fusiform, ovipositor not formed; segments with rows of fine
setze, similar to those in adult, increasing in length toward posterior end, ninth and
tenth segments equal in length (0.059 mm.).

The young nymph or prepupa (fig. 17, at left)—Length, 1.184 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.3404mm. Shape similar toadult. Head, length, 0.148 mm.; width at eyes,
0.1628 mm. Head translucent white, vertex slightly yellowish, ocelli absent, head

@ For a full characterization of the genus and of the species see Hinds’s Monograph
of the Thysanoptera, pp. 168-170.

b After careful search the writer has been able to make out what he considers
ments in the antenn.

~
‘

seg-

48 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

deeply notched behind eyes; eyes red, made up of a few large facets, surface faintly
reticulated ; head rounded in front; a pair of setze over rear angle of eyes, another pairin
front of the eyes, and a third over the antenne. Antenne translucent, extending
forward about twice the length of the head and composed of 7 segments; first segment
cylindrical, broader than long; second cylindrical, nearly twice as long as segment 1
and not so broad; third longer than second, base constricted but not pedunculate, and
with constriction at third and two-thirds length from base, so that it appears to be made
up of 3 segments; fourth spindle-shaped, about as long as third; 5, 6, and 7 short and
slender and not very clearly defined. Segments bear few spines on sides.

Prothorax nearly one-half again as wide as long, sides rounded, posterior edge broad-
est, semitranslucent white to faint yellow, a few prominent sete around edges. Meso-
thorax with prominent rounded angles, translucent white to faint yellow, surface
faintly reticulated, wing-cases translucent white, distinct from each other, those of
fore-wings extending to second abdominal segment and those of hind-wings extending
to middle of second abdominal segment. Legs translucent white to faint yellow, strong.
Abdomen shaped as in adult, white to faint yellow, last few segments translucent, eight
rows of setze in pairs, increasing in length
from anterior to posterior end. Length of
abdomen, 0.5956 mm.

The full-grown nymph or pupa (fig. 17, at
right).—Lenegth, 1.25 mm.; width at meso-
thoracic angles, 0.2812mm. Shape similar
to that of adult. Color translucent white
toslightly yellowish. Head, length, 0.1628
mm.; width, 0.1924 mm.; translucent
white, distinctly reticulated, eyes dark red,
larger than in prepupal stage, facets large.
Three ocelli present in close triangle be-
tween eyes, color chitinous yellow. An-
tenne laid backward on head and reach-
ing to near middle of prothorax, segments
indistinct, translucent white. Segments
! land 2 projecting in front of the head and
Fia. 17.—Greenhouse thrips: Prepupa on the a: 2 with a long spine extending forward,

eager ye Balerged. abons 0) -Oague! name am length. Thorax plainly
reticulated, translucent white to faint yel-
low. Prothorax more than twice as broad as long. Wing cases 0.4736 mm. long,
extending to near middle of fifth abdominal segment, translucent white to faint
yellow. Length from head to end of wing-pads, 0.6512 mm. Legs translucent white
to pearly white. Abdomen broader and shorter than in adult, contracted, but of same
general shape, surface plainly reticulated, setee well developed, the longest ones at
posterior end. Length of abdomen, 0.6956 mm.; width, 0.3552 mm.; length of
posterior setze, 0.0888 mm.

HABITS OF THE ADULT.

After emerging from the pupex, the mature thrips feed on the under-
side of the leaves for several weeks. They are not, asa rule, as abun-
dant on the upper surface. One plant, on which there were about
150 adults, had only 3 or 4 of this number feeding on the upper sur-
face of the foliage.

Adults walk over the leaf quite rapidly, and if disturbed they raise
the tip of the abdomen and move rapidly away, walking in any direc-
tion. In a few cases they have been observed to jump when dis-

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 49

turbed, but generally they simply move rapidly. The writer has
never observed adults in flight, but that they do fly is certain, as he
has found that plants free from thrips and at a distance from infested
plants after a time will become infested by adults. As the study of
the life history of this species was carried on in an unheated green-
house with low temperature, it is quite possible that the adults were
rendered sluggish. It seems strange that the writer has not observed
their flight, for in studying this thrips he has examined a large num-
ber on plants and has purposely disturbed them to induce flight.
Adults often remain motionless for long periods, and in such cases rest
close to the veins of the leaf.

The eggs are laid singly in the tissues of the leaf, the female first
making an incision with her ovipositor and then pushing the egg into
the incision. She probably lays only 1 or 2 eggs in a day, as the eggs
are large and the ovaries will hold only a few matured eggs at one time.
One female examined had 6 eggs partly formed in her ovaries and 3 of
these were quite small. As the leaves become exhausted from the
feeding of larve and adults, the latter leave them and oviposit in
fresh young leaves, so that in time the exhausted leaves are deserted
and fall off and gradually the remainder of the plant becomes infested.

HABITS OF THE LARVZ.

On March 5 larvee were observed hatching from the eggs about 10
a.m. In all cases where larve emerged the leaf was marked by a
dark spot and the surface was slightly swollen.

When first observed the head of the larva was projecting slightly
out of a slit in the leaf epidermis, probably the same one that was
made in depositing the egg, and the light red eyes were very conspicu-
ous. Little by little the body is worked more and more out of the
opening, and as it projects in the air, working vigorously back and forth,
with its limbs folded against the body and invisible, it has the ap-
pearance of a minute worm in motion. When all but the tip of the
abdomen is free the tiny larva remains quiet for a very short time,
then one by one, beginning with the antennz, but the legs in no regu-
lar order, the appendages unfold. The larva moves them around
freely for a time and then, bending over, grasps the leaf surfacé and
commences to pull, in an effort to free the end of the abdomen. After
considerable work the larva frees itself and after a short rest moves
around in search of a place to feed. Some only travel a few inches,
others travel over a considerable portion of the leaf surface before
settling down to feed. The time required for the larva to emerge
varies from 6 to 12 minutes.

As a rule the larve are found on the underside of the leaves, but
when crowded, as in severe infestations, they attack the upper surface.

50 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

While they will feed anywhere on the leaf, in many cases they will
cluster together in colonies between two veins of the leaf. In one case
observed by the author a number of larve hatched from eggs on one
edge of the leaf and the next day were all feeding together on the
opposite edge. In another case a colony of 85 larve was observed
collected in a circle between two veins near the edge of the leaf.
Many of the larve in this colony were moving around, but would not
separate from the colony.

The larve when first hatched are minute and colorless, but as soon
as they begin feeding the alimentary tract becomes plainly marked
from the dark reddish fluid contained in it. This fluid is excreted
and collects in globules on the tip of the abdomen, being held in place
by the terminal sete. The tip of the abdomen is elevated, and it
is an interesting sight to see numbers of these larve moving over
the leaf with globules of red liquid suspended in the air on the tips
of the abdomen. When disturbed they become excited and move
around rapidly, jerking the abdomen from side to side. The globule
of liquid gradually increases in size until it is too large to carry, and
is then left on the surface of the leaf, where it dries as a small reddish
spot.

As long as the food supply in the leaf is fresh and abundant these
arve will remain on it, and thus the number becomes very large.
One leaf was found with about 250 larve, besides a number of pup
and adults. If disturbed, or if the leaf is beginning to wilt and lose
its vitality, the larvee become restless, separate, and move around
over the leaf in search of fresh food, but eventually many will collect
again in colonies. They feed unprotected on the leaf, as far as their
own efforts are concerned, but in many cases they secrete themselves
under a slight web made by red spiders and are protected by it.
Upon leaves exposed in part to sunlight the larve seek that part of
the leaf which is the least exposed. They molt unprotected in the
midst of the feeding colony. These larve are delicate little crea-
tures, and if for any reason they are knocked from the plant most of
them soon die, not being able to travel far in returning to the food
plant.

HABITS OF THE PREPUPA AND PUPA.

The larvee change to prepupe in the midst of the feeding colony
without seeking protected quarters, but nearly always on the under-
side of the leaf. The prepupz move around a little on the underside
of the leaf and generally are clustered in groups of from 4 to 10 pre-
pupe and pupe. In many cases they are under the web of red
spiders, but if no red spiders have been on the plant they are then
unprotected.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 51

The pupe are associated with the prepupex, but do not move about
unless disturbed. Not only are the prepupe more active than the
pupe, but they carry the antennz in front of the head and frequently
move them, while the pupe have the antenne laid back on the head
and motionless. Neither prepupe nor pup take any nourishment.

FOOD PLANTS.«

Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis feeds on a large number of ornamental
plants. In this country it has been recorded as feeding on the fol-
lowing: Liliaceous plants, azalea, Pellea hastata, aspidium, crotons

£ ] , 2] ? 5] 5]

dahlias, phlox, verbena, pink, ferns, vines, cherry laurel, laurestina

bf , b >} b b dJ >] )
palms, ficus, and fuchsia.

This year this thrips damaged the mango (Mangifera indica) at
Miami, Fla., and was recorded * from St. Vincent and the Barbados
Islands on cacao, kola, and the date palm. In Europe the following

) p) D
list includes most of the ornamentals preyed upon by this thrips:
fErides, azalea, begonia, camarotes, cattleya, crinums, dendrobium,
papeenis, ficus, grape, lelia, lefortia, marcintacia, pancratium, oa
lenopsis, and viburnum.

LIFE HISTORY.

In order to study the life history of this insect, solitary females were
put on isolated plants that were previously uninfested and carefully
watched. An attempt to study isolated females, in small vials with
bits of leaves, failed of results and after 2 weeks was discontinued.

Life cycle—The life cycle, as detailed, is probably very near the
maximum length, as the studies were conducted with the temperature
of the house quite low, frequently falling to 50° F. at night. With these
conditions the length of the egg stage is about 8 days, but possibly in
a well-heated greenhouse this would be cut almost in half. The larvee
molt twice, the last time transforming to prepupx, and during the
cool weather require from 16 to 20 days to obtain full growth. The
prepupal period is of short duration, occupying only from 10 to 15
hours, while the pupal period is from 4 to 5 days. This gives a total
of 33 days as a maximum, and with favorable conditions this is
probably reduced to 20 days or less.

Longevity.—The greenhouse thrips, for such a minute insect, has
quite an extended duration of life and evidently feeds on the leaves
for a number of days before starting egg-deposition. In one case ob-

a Since the above was submitted for publie ation some new food plants for this species
have been reported. Dr. E. A. Back found it feeding on maples at Orlando, Fla., and
on alligator pear (Persea gratissima). The fact that this insect feeds on the mango and
alligator pear serves to indicate that at some time in the future it may be of great im-
portance in Florida, as both are valuable fruits in that State.

52 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

served, no larve hatched until 19 days after the female was placed on
a plant. This insect was about 1 day from the pupa when placed
on the plant. Another female was observed for 4 weeks, when she
disappeared, quite probably dying of old age. Probably this thrips
lays from 10 to 20 eggs during her lifetime. The writer observed 10
larvee on 1 plant with a single adult, and possibly some were killed by
mites, ete.

Generations.—In greenhouses this insect is active during the entire
year, so that the number of generations is quite large. Taking the
maximum life cycle, this thrips might produce as many as 12 genera-
tions a year, provided that the species breeds continuously and con-
ditions are favorable to rapid growth.

NATURAL CONTROL.

Rain.—In its native home this thrips is probably kept under con-
trol by frequent rains. At Miami, Fla., where hundreds of crotons
are planted on hotel and private grounds, the author could find
no traces of injury and collected only 1 adult. Crotons that were
badly infested by this insect, kept in a greenhouse at Orlando, Fla.,
during the winter of 1907, were placed outside in June and by the end
of the summer it was almost impossible to find specimens of the thrips
on them. In times of drought this insect may increase in such num-
bers as to cause serious injury where it occurs in the open.

Natural enemies.—Frequently a mite is found on plants infested
with the greenhouse thrips. On a few occasions the author has found
thrips with one of these mites fastened to its dorsum. Specimens of
this predaceous enemy were determined by Mr. Nathan Banks as
Lelaps macropilis Bks.

ARTIFICIAL CONTROL.
EXPERIMENTS WITH REMEDIES.
FUMIGATION EXPERIMENTS.

A series of fumigation experiments was conducted against this
insect in its occurrence on croton at Orlando, Fla. All were made in
a small, fairly tight room, containing 660 cubic feet.

Experiment No. 1.—April 27, 1908, at 4 p. m., a plant was fumi-
gated all night with one sheet of nico fume. It was a cloudy, cool
day, just after a rain, and a good breeze was blowing. On opening
the-room at 8.15 a. m. there was quite a pronounced odor of nicotine.

April 28, the paper below the plant was covered with this insect in
all stages, and many were also found on the plant.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. aS

Result of the fumigation, counting the thrips on the plant:

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

VD) T)_- ARRS aed 109 | * 30 | 436 575
“a. a, iin Sa | a a ea 10 26 10 46
“0 STEREO TC a ag 91.6 53 97.6 924

May 2, the plant was in fine condition and uninjured. About 10
live adults remained. No live larva were seen, but the leaves were
covered with hundreds of dead ones.

Experiment No. 2.—May 16, at 5.45 p. m., a plant was fumigated
overnight with one-half sheet of nico-fume paper. At 5.45 p. m. it
was dark from rain clouds.

May 17, the plant was uninjured. Red spiders and mealy bugs
were alive. Few thrips were on the plant.

Adults. | Pupe.

ID LS URS ese eee a ae ee ee ae 2 5 10 17
EAR QE 2 25 RE a SS i ea 0 rt ek ee 0 13 0 13
= at 2 8

Experiment No. 3.—April 28, at 5.15 p. m., fumigated a plant over-
night with one sheet of aphicide. The sky was cloudy and there was
a strong breeze. The plant had a few thrips on it.

April 29, when examined at 8.45 a. m., the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve: | All forms.

EIS sh aie JS oon co uae Sheet Seen? | 30 1| 6 | 37
ALERT 2. 5 2) ee eee eae eee SCS cee 3 0 | 2 | 5
|

HSCS OEP HALO 00 Fiaxw o'siasa-s cis was = whens tse nse Sosa we seam wee om | 90 100 75 88+

May 2, the plant was in fine condition.

Expervment No. 4.—May 24, at 7 p. m., fumigated a plant with one
sheet of aphicide. There was a strong breeze.

May 25, the plant was uninjured.

. |
Adults. | Pup. Larvee. | All forms.

ENTER G8.n eat Sy OY OE a Se nS ed ne 0 0 2
en ae dM eee EES Lo. nen ccloe cv ede neasscennsmeewenel | 100 R34 100, 97+

54 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Expervment No. 5.—May 22, at 6 p. m., fumigated a plant over-
night with one-half sheet of aphicide. There was a strong breeze.
May 23, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

DGS wis ojaic dis o)s)oi05 2 sjore xioinjeialss les e/sralajara symicine ieee reinsert ieicets 6 15 | 31 52
OAT (ae RS a i ak IID eee ya a a in ory ep 2 21) 1 34
Per. cent killed iss. tccccsasecaseeeceeeenocee eee eeeene cases 75 412 73.8 60. 44+

Experiment No. 6.—-April 30, at 8.30 a. m., a plant was fumigated
with one sheet of aphis punk (=2 sheets of nico fume or aphicide) all
day; cloudy. Toward the end of the fumigation the punk began to
burn in strips, so it was not all consumed. It gave a very dense
smoke. The room was opened late in the afternoon.

May 1, the plants were uninjured.

Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | All forms.

LL 10

TYE 6 1 Pe hes meen 8 IS Se i A Eh he a Pere ae df 0
PAU VCS hath Poteet eee rete a ao et eee ete oils epee cee 14 11 18 43
encentrkilled esse ssee eae ser nice eee oe omen eee eee 334 0 14.2 18.8

May 2, live thrips were abundant on the plants.

Experiment No. 7.—April 30, fumigated with one-half sheet of aphis
punk (equal to 1 sheet of other kinds), but as it did not burn up, the
house was opened at 5.30 p.m. and a fresh piece put in. The fumi-
gation lasted all night. This piece also burned in strips and a third
was not consumed.

May 1, the plants were uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | Allforms.

DDE Ee co ecee ogasen ces oes tam sated coariabonngsnoLadosessadacucs 0 2 3 | 5
TAU Be cup pana cunSeS ase acc deine Goober oul cobue conbeastaase xe 11 13 15 | 39
Panicentikall ed ere eset ineiere ses aaa see eee ae 0 133 163 | 11+

It seems that the thrips that drop to the ground have a better
chance to recover than those on the plant.

Experiment No. 8.—May 1, at 5.15 p. m., fumigated all night with
one-half sleet of aphis punk (fresh box from the factory). This was
entirely consumed and the room well filled with smoke.

May 2, the plants were uninjured; red spiders were alive.

Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | All forms.

Per eént Iilledin.c 3 sos. Soaet eee s e eee ee 94. 4 5 | 97+ 86.4

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 55

Experiment No. 9.—May 26, at 7 p. m., fumigated with one-half
sheet of aphis punk (fresh box). Fumigation lasted all night. The
sky was cloudy.

May 27, the plant was uninjured. The condition of the thrips was
as follows:

Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | Allforms.

The, 2 ee ee a C!s 7 2 | 2 ul

PML Daan eta ee tere aie nis os aie au acis aiwaracts cote naeee emma 0 7 0 vi
Pericanui kilos seer one tases cccct cc acecs cocek os ceteeee eens 100 22+ 100 | 614

Experiment No. 10.—May 20, at 5.50 p. m., fumigated with nico-
fume liquid (1 tablespoonful=4 ounce + 1 ounce water, vaporized
over an alcohol lamp). The sky was partly cloudy. Sprinkled the
plant with water.

The vapor rose slowly until 6 p. m., when small flies on the window
began to drop. House flies were still flying around the room at 6.15
p- m., when the liquid was all evaporated.

May 21, the plant was uninjured. Red spiders were apparently
all alive. A very careful examination of the plant failed to show a
live thrips. ji

arm a |
Adults. | Pup. | Larve. | All forms.

WEAN ahs caters te Son oe Sot Soe coe sitaeessienscie nsec Tf 12 8 94
0

UAC YG 5. Seep ee ae es eS oe ee acccteeteteces 0 | 0 0
IPencent killed ee ree eeee ee nee ce a eee seb stutew sess 100 100 100 100

Experiment No. 11.—May 27, at 3.50 p. m., fumigated with nico-
fume liquid (4 tablespoonful to 2 tablespoonfuls of water, vaporized).
Sky clouded, breeze strong.

May 28, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pups. | Larve. | All forms.
ert ne oS caw n'e ncviswls dues nance men ase eter eeencseces 3 2 1 6
PN USAR eG. a sca adncne cove ccemstemeradaoeees oaeee 0 2 0 2
PECAN TRAN GC ee 5. .<00sc5 natal nd Sa ca nneet ee eee eenee 100 | 50 100 75

Experiment No. 12.—May 21, at 6 p. m., fumigated with rose-leaf
insecticide (29 c. c. + 25 ¢. c. water, vaporized over an alcohol lamp).
The sky was cloudy, with rain falling.

May 22, the plants were apparently uninjured. Red spiders were
alive.

Adults. | Pups. | Larve. | All forms.
RAC seas eea 2 Sedits 2k s oivn s capawdcceevckiacdecessteane Bas gis-od 7 2 4 | 13
PRE Re en ok cos oo cavccdensecewedeneeeeuarereseceeces 0 0 | 0 0

78936°— Bull. 64—11——5

56 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Experiment No. 13.—May 18, fumigated with potassium cyanid
(0.003 gram per cubic foot. In 660 cubic feet used 4.4 grams potas-
sium cyanid, 7.92 c. c. sulphuric acid, and 15 c.c. water). Time, 5.30
p- m. Sky clouded; temperature 82° F; breeze strong; length of
fumigation, overnight.

May 19, the plant was uninjured.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

IDEA ooo so occcbadoqndaS doeyassnnoonoabestosscdesboSpoose sade 8 0 1 9
IATIV GS. Bs Saher ma aatec ee ate cc ce Mache pio ietmeieta elena eget 2 17 54 73
Percent killed hss ees Secs es ces ce etees ee ereoer es eee 80 0 1.8 10.9

This strength was entirely too weak.

Experiment No. 14.—May 19 fumigated with potassium cyanid
(0.02 gram per cubic foot. In room used 13.2 grams potassium cya-
nid, 26.8 c. c. sulphuric acid, and 53.6 c. c. water). Time, 6 p. m.
Length of fumigation, all night. Temperature, 78° F.; breeze strong.

May 20, the plants were uninjured. Flies and bees in the room
were all dead. Red spiders were alive. The thrips were all dead.

Adults. | Pupe. | Larve. | All forms.

DOA Geese ote Tee canal icine eters iorcte sleet ante ache aaisioe Seer ees 3 10 28 41
AM Viet eee nce cicle ticieiois onla Pech eiena se see gee eeincemncea teem beers ae 0 0 0 0
Per cent Weds. .cc.seaecmases ces asctce css. eee a eeoseswesnerle 100 100 100 100

May 25, the plant was uninjured.
SPRAYING EXPERIMENTS.

Experiment No. 16.—February 25, sprayed very thoroughly with
rose-leaf insecticide (1 part to 48 parts water) a large croton infested
with this thrips in all stages. Gave the upper and under sides a very
thorough spraying so as to cover entirely the surface and be sure to hit
nearly all of the thrips. The spraying was done in the afternoon
when the house became shaded from the sun. A fine spray from a
small hand pump, common in greenhouses, was used.

February 26, examined the plant at 9.30 a. m. and find results as
follows:

Adults. | Pupe. | Larvee. | All forms.

Dead vcck cectiteek Seen ao eas ales Bae os eee ae oe ne se cee eee eee 34 5 5 44
NUE Ve 3e on (SES eee Sen San tec ciemies Rae Semele eeroete 1 2 2 5
Per cent adHed ss. soto seco cece seen crest eee oe eee ees 97.1 71.4 | 71. 4 90

May 12, 1908, this plant had then a number of young thrips upon it
again and a lot of adults that had flown onto it.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. ae

Experiment No. 16.—February 20, 1908, sprayed with cold water.
Took hose and washed off all of the plants in the greenhouse with cold
water. The next morning found the adults still common and also
many larve on the crotons, but many leaves badly infested before
washing were then entirely free from them. Probably the spraying
with cold water washed away and killed 40 to 50 per cent of young
thrips.

SUMMARY OF EXPERIMENTS.

The fumigation and spraying experiments in the control of the
greenhouse thrips may be summarized as follows:

Hosot Amount per 660°| Per cent | Injury t | od soli
rors Rae mount per 6 er cent | Injury to, red spider
eae Date. Method. Material. cubic feet. killed. | plant. | after treat-
| ment.
i [eae Apr. 27 | Fumigation.-..| Nico-fume paper.| 1 sheet.........- 92 None.... Alive
7) ae May 16) |=. 22. Gores eae ceas dole eee resheetos -. 2222 56. 6 Gore Do.
pee Apr 28) \|'soce do. Aphicide........ jrtsheetec- aces 22 88 Gose-s5 Do
A May (24 |o3. 5. GOste5a. 0555s (0 (oye eee AH bese oe (aes See 97 GOss220 Do
Lee eee May) 22 |220.- OME eee dott: 2e2-%. 4 sheet.......... 60. 4 doss-2 Do
Gaetssc: Apr 30)\\n2o5- do Aphis aia Seco i sheets... 222 18.8 dos-=-: Do
(Cans 0sasae|aeeat are ceedan anon do. Fisheete\< 2<.-00~- 11+ do.-242 Do
ee See Mayan |sese- (6 ta) ee eal eae Owe e (eee GOzsccct sees 86. 4 OGse2 Do
Qeees st May 26 |....- CRRA Se sen eeene (6 (Sa Seg eee (6 fo ee ore Glee Ore- 22 Do.
Li See May 20) | ..<2 do.........| Nico-fume liquid.| 4 ounce.-......... LOOM | a2co==- == Do.
nb eee May 27. |2--5- C0 eence aan || eee GOs saecsenee | 4 ounce.. Saute fO))) |p=-GOseno- Do.
1 Pak May 21 |..+.. dOsccsec=- Beare insecti- 29 E@iCsireccancs- 100) |\2-2do--=-. Do.
cide
Le ee May m8:|-..- do.........| Potassium cya- | 0.004 gram per | 10:9 |.--do:-.=: Do.
nid. | cubic foot.
145-2255 May, 19) |... GOre 2-5 sccliocase 0s sea ese 0.02 gram per 100) al eedOs-ces Do.
cubic foot.
1b eaeee Feb. 25.| Spray-....-... Rose-leafinsecti- | 1 part to 48 parts 90). |ce=do=-2: Do.
cide. water.
1625-22: REDS 20) | ieee do.........| Water in hose....| Drenching...... 40-50 |...do..... | Do.

REMEDIES RECOMMENDED.

For the treatment of this pest there are a number of good remedies.
The question as to the best method to employ depends upon the size
of the house infested and upon the experience of the person engaged
in treating the insect.

Fumigation with nicotine papers.—Any of the standard fumigating
papers will give good results against this pest if they are strictly fresh
and kept tightly sealed. Fumigation should be done at night in a
moist atmosphere and the papers should be used at the rate of about
2 sheets for every 1,000 cubic feet of space. Early in the morning
the house should be opened and thoroughly aired.

Fumigation with nicotine liquid extracts.—Liquid extracts of nico-
tine offer one of the best methods of greenhouse fumigation and against
this pest are very successful. Those made up of 40 per cent nicotine
should be used at the rate of 1 ounce to every 1,000 cubic feet of space
and the weaker solutions at greater strengths. The preparation
should be evaporated over small lamps or stoves, and to prevent

58 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

scorching should be diluted with water, approximately two-thirds.
Fumigation should be carried on at night in a moist atmosphere, and
the house should remain closed all night.

Fumigation with hydrocyanic-acid gas.-— When fumigating with
hydrocyanic-acid gas great care should be taken, as this gas is fatal to all
animal life. The work must be conducted at night and the plants
should have dry foliage. In treating this insect, use from 0.01 to 0.05
grams of potassium cyanid per cubic foot for from 2 hours to all night,
the strength and length of exposure varying according to the tight-
ness of the house and the kind of plants being treated, as there is
considerable difference between various plants as to their resisting
power to this gas.

Spraying with nicotine liquids.—-Nicotine extracts diluted with
water, if carefully applied to plants, will kill large numbers of the
greenhouse thrips, but the great objection is that many are not hit by
the spray, and therefore the plants become infested again in a short
time.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion.’—It is quite possible that kero-
sene emulsion spray will be effective against the greenhouse thrips
when used at the strength of 1 part of stock to 10 parts of water and
it costs considerably less and is more readily obtained than the nico-
tine preparations. It should be very carefully prepared and used
experimentally at first until the effect on the foliage of the different
plants is noted. Care should also be taken to prevent a quantity of
emulsion from collecting around the roots.

Water spray.—F requent treatment with a stiff spray of water from
a garden hose will tend to keep this insect down, but unless there are
only a few plants it would be better to use one of the other remedies.

Any treatment for this insect should be repeated in from 7 to 10
days to destroy the young larve that have hatched from the eggs.
This should be sufficient, but it may be best to give a third treatment
in another week or two.

BIBLIOGRAPHY.
1. Boucus, P. F.c—Schiidliche Garten Insecten, p. 42, 1833.
Original description of the species.

2. Hauuwway, A. H.—Entomological Magazine, Vol. III, p. 443, 1836.

Description of the female as Heliothrips adonidum.

3. Burmeister, H.—Handbuch der Entomologie, Vol. II, p. 412, 1838.
Description of adult female and habits of insect.

«For complete directions for the use of hydrocyanic-acid gas, see Cirs. 37 and 57,
Bur. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agr.

b For the method of making emulsions, see Farmers’ Bulletin 127, pp. 22-23, or
Cir. 80, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr.

¢ Not seen by author.

or

10.

16

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

THE GREENHOUSE THRIPS. 59

Burmeister, H.—Genera Insectorum, Fasc. 5, 1838.
Short description and excellent colored plate of the adult female.

Hauipay, A. H.—Walker, Homopt. Ins. Brit. Mus., p. 1102, Pl. VI, fig. 18, 1852.
Short description and figures of parts of head.
Heecer, E.—F iinfte Fortsetzung Sitzungsb. Kais. Akad. Wiss., Wien, IX, p. 473,
Pl. XVII, 1852; separate, Wien, ‘Gerold, VIII, pp. 3-4, 1852.

Description of egg and young stages and adult with account of habits.

. Bremi-Wotr, J. J.—Stett. Ent. Zeit., pp. 313-315, 1855.

Reprinted from Abh. Zurick Gartenbau-Geselle, 111, pp. 260-261. Short description and
account of habits.

Low, F.—Verhandl. k. k. zool.-bot. Ges., Wien, XVII, p. 747, 1867.

Brief account of injury.

Botspuvat, J. A.—Essai sur Entomologie Horticole, pp. 233-235, fig. 32, 1867.
Description of adult, account of habits with long list of host plants, and figure of leaf injured by
this insect.
PackarpD, A. S.—17th Ann. Rep., Mass. Bd. Agr., p. 263, pl. 1, fig. 2, 1870.

Short account of habits of this insect and a poor illustration of adult.

Cook, A. J.—3rd Ann. Rep. Pom. Soc. Mich., 1873-74, p. 501, 1874.
Brief notice in which this insect, mentioned as Thrips adonidum, is called a serious pest in
Michigan.

Packarp, A. 8.—Half Hours with Insects, pp. 118-119, fig. 86, 1881.

This account is nearly identical with No. 10.

. PerGanpeE, Tu.—Psyche, Vol. III, p. 381, 1882.

Brief note on occurrence out of doors, at Washington, D. C., Nov. 14.

. Lerrvre, E.—Entomologist, Vol. XV, p. 240, 1882.

Mentioned as injurious to greenhouse plants.

. Lintner, J. A.—2nd Rep. Ins. N. Y., pp. 29, 31, 38, 56, 1885.

There is some doubt as to whether this insect or a leaf-hopper is referred to in the first, second
and third references.

,

. —— ——.—Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg., Vol. XXIX, p. Ixx, 1885.

Note on use of tobacco as a fumigant.

. JorDAN, K.—Zeitschrift fiir Wiss. Zool., XLVII, pp. 541-620, Pls. XXXVI-

XXXVIII, 1888.

Anatomy and biology of Thysanoptera, with frequent mention of this insect.

. UzeL, J.—Monographie der Ordnung Thysanoptera, pp. 168-170, Pl. VI, figs. 90-

92, 1895.
Description of adult and figures of head, antenna, and wing.
PERGANDE, TH.—Insect Life, Vol. VII, p. 390, 1895.
Observations on this and other thrips.
Frank, A.—Die tierparasitiiren Krankheiten der Pflanzen, p. 134, 1896.
Short account of habits and advice as to remedies.
Davis, G. C.—Special Bull. No. 2, Mich. Agr. Exp. Sta., p. 13, 1896.
Brief note on occurrence in Michigan.
Burra, P.—Estratto dalla Rivista di Patologia Vegetale, VII, Nos. 1-4, pp. 94-
108; continued, VII, Nos. 5-8, pp. 129-135, 136-142, 1898.
Study of the external and internal anatomy of the species. Illustrated by 5 plates.

Timpe., R.—Die Geradfliigler Mitteleuropas, p. 290, 1901.
Description of female and poor figure in colors.

. CHITTENDEN, F. H.—Weekly Florists’ Review, April 17, p. 739, 1902.

Short popular article on thrips in greenhouses.

60 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

25. Hinps, W. E.—Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., vol. 26, p. 168, 1903. Issued as separate
No. 1318, 1902.
Description of adult and account of habits as far as known.
26. Moutton, DupLEy.—Tech. Ser. 12, Part III, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr.,
pp. 43, 51-52, 1907.
Brief notes on characters and habits. Destructive to laurestinas out of doors.

27. FRANKLIN, H. J.—Proc. U. 8. Nat. Mus., Vol. XX XIII, p. 719, 1908.

Notes on occurrence out of doors in the Barbados.

U.S. D.A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VII. Issued August 5, 1909.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESUEIS- OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL.
(Arecerus fasciculatus De Geer.)

By E. 8. Tucker,
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

While making field observations upon the cotton boll weevil during
the past season (1908), a large plantation situated 6 miles south of Alex-
andria, La., was visited on September 18 and again on December 4.
On my first visit at this place the overseer directed my attention
to the work of strange weevils occurring in dried cornstalks in fields
adjacent to cotton. Upon examination the larval and pupal stages
and sometimes a few adults of the insects were found in the pith, at
or close to the joints (Pl. III). These specimens were identified as
the coffee-bean weevil (Arexcerus fasciculatus De Geer) (fig. 18), and
the selection of cornstalks for breeding purposes places the species
on record as a new enemy to be encountered in cornfields.

NATURE OF INJURY TO CORN.

According to the statements of the overseer, the working of these
weevils in cornstalks during the past year was more noticeable
than in the preceding season, when, he first detected the insects at
work. He claimed that the attacks began in green stalks before the
corn matured and thus caused stunted ears. Being a close observer,
he first noticed their attacks during the last week of August, while the
stalks were still fresh and sappy, although the leaves had begun, to
dry. These facts prove beyond question that the larvee were hatched
within living tissues of the plants. Furthermore, he expressed a
firm belief that the holes made by these insects for emergence from
the stalks afterwards offer a retreat for cotton boll weevils, which
may enter and hibernate in the pith. His opinion in this respect
was supported by the claim that he had found boll weevils in such
places at the time the land was being prepared for spring planting.

61

62 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

In the course of such work many old cornstalks were dragged out of
the dirt that had been thrown over them by means of a ‘‘ middle-
buster” plow used for breaking the ground during November and
December; and in two or three instances, which he remembered as
having occurred in February, he found stalks with boll weevils
secreted in the cavities evidently formed by the stalk pests.

At the time of my first examination the emergence holes and other
signs of work by Arzcerus fasciculatus were not visible unless the
leaves were stripped from the stalks as they stood in the fields.
Centers of infestation were then located in different parts of the
fields by breaking open a number of stalks to ascertain the extent of
depredations. As most of the ears had been gathered, inspection of
the greater part of the fields was freely made and infested sections of
the stalks were collected. The damaged stalks broke easily at the
joints where larvee had worked, and usually but one injured place
was found on a stalk. All attacks by the weevils at this time were

Fia. 18.--Coffee-bean weevil (Arzcerus fasciculatus): a, Larva; b, adult or beetle; c, pupa. Greatly
enlarged. (From Chittenden.)

confined to the upper joints. These damaged joints varied in thick-
ness from a little more than an inch to slightly less than one-half
inch. The extra thick and hard structure of the lower joints was then
thought to present unsuitable conditions for the breeding of the
weevils, at least where the pith incompletely filled the stem. Further
developments which were noted on my second examination showed,
however, that the insects had bred extensively and worked down-
ward into the lowest joints, their tunnels running through the pith
from one joint to another. Since all stages were found again, the
prospect for continual breeding of the weevils, which perhaps depends
upon mild weather, seemed to be assured as long as the stalks were
not destroyed. As previously observed, the effects of their work
were most noticeable at the joints. The common occurrence of
damaged stalks, which were readily detected on account of the emer-
gence holes being exposed to view by reason of the partial loss of the
leaves, indicated that the infestation was widespread.

Bul. 64, Part VII, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE III.

WORK OF THE COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL (ARAZCERUS FASCICULATUS) IN CORNSTALKS.
(ORIGINAL.

NEW BREEDING RECORDS OF COFFEE-BEAN WEEVIL. 63

NOTES ON LIFE HISTORY IN CORN.

Judging from the appearance of damaged stalks when split open,
the larve evidently begin work at a joint and form wide cavities,
mainly in a crosswise direction, as they progress into the pith. All
examples of their injuries showed that irregular portions of the pithy
substance, excepting most of the fibers, had been reduced to a dis-
colored, powdery condition, which was usually more pronounced
above the joint than below it. The greater part of the time neces-
sary for the growth of the grubs is probably spent in the exca-
vation of these spaces to satisfy their demands upon the pith as
a food supply. In preparation for the pupal stage the grown or
nearly grown larve manifest a tendency to burrow into fresh pith
some distance from the area of early operations. A considerable
proportion of them does this; though few grubs proceed farther than
2 inches upward or downward. These burrows run in somewhat
deflective courses, but when finished always terminate just under
the hard surface of the stem and afford a convenient position at the
far end for each insect upon attaining maturity to gnaw its way out,
as was proved in many cases by an emergence hole being already
cut to afford means of escape to the tenant. Nearly every closed
burrow contained either a grown larva, a pupa, or an adult. These
stages commonly occurred also in or close to the large primary
cavities, indicating that not all the larve undertake special meas-
ures for pupation away from their original place of development,
though all apparently provide for facility of emergence as adults, and
the greater number perhaps complete their transformations in the
same relative position. In fact, the greater number of openings ap-
pearing through the surface immediately surrounding the worst
damaged places close to the joints shows that emergence is most
frequently effected there.

OCCURRENCE IN CHINABERRIES; PARASITES.

The further records on the habits of Arecerus fasciculatus are
obtained from the notes on file at the laboratory of the Bureau of
tntomology at Dallas, Tex., all of which pertain to the breeding of
the species in berries of the chinaberry tree (Melia azedarach). Sev-
eral larvee and pup and one adult were found in the pulp of old
chinaberries collected at Victoria, Tex., April 24, 1907, by Mr. R. A.
Cushman. From other collections of similarly infested berries, made
at the same place on May 12, by Mr. A. C. Morgan, adult weevils
first emerged seven days later, and on the 27th and 28th of the same
month the first rearings of parasites were recorded. These para-
sites represented a species which was later described by Mr. J. C.
Crawford as Cerambycobius cushmani, and further developments not
only proved it to be the most important enemy of Arecerus fascicu-

64 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

latus, but highly inimical to the cotton boll weevil. Numbers of
these parasites, together with Hurytoma tylodermatis Ashm., which
also attacks the boll weevil, matured during the following June and
July from another lot of old berries infested by the immature stages
of Arecerus fasciculatus, the material having been collected by Mr.
Cushman on June 11. Other species of parasites were reared from
these lots, but so far remain undetermined. The latest date recorded
for the emergence of weevils in confinement was July 11, but under
natural conditions these insects probably breed continuously through-
out the season in berries which are apt to be hanging on trees or
falling from them at all times of the year.

During the past year opportunities permitted me to make personal
observations upon the work of these weevils in chinaberries. While
at San Augustine, Tex.,on March 22, my attention was drawn to an
infestation occurring in both fallen and hanging berries. Fallen ber-
ries in a soft, shriveled, or rotting condition frequently contained
well advanced larval stages. Seldom were more than one or two
grubs found in a berry. The larvee in hanging berries were gener-
ally younger. Some of the hanging berries contained very small
erubs, evidently newly hatched, that had scarcely begun working in
the firm pulp. The falling of infested berries seemed to be induced
by the softened condition resulting from the more advanced work of
the larvee, and the pupal stage must necessarily be passed in fallen
berries. Collections of these berries were placed in breeding boxes,
and adult weevils emerged from April 16 until June 16, but no para-
sites appeared, probably because of the earliness of the collection.
On March 25, at Longview, Tex., the species was again taken by me,
but only fallen berries were examined. A live adult was removed
from one berry.

At Monroe, La., on the 21st of the same month, Mr. R. A. Cushman
made an interesting find in regard to a new enemy of the coffee-bean
weevil. In a number of infested berries one weevil larva was found
to be attacked by a new species of mite belonging to the genus
Pediculoides. This mite is also known as an enemy of boll weevil
larvee.

HABITS IN GENERAL.

Previously published records of Arzcerus fasciculatus show it to be
a common insect in warm climates, and that it has no particular
food preferences. It is as likely to be found breeding in.beans or
any stored dry vegetable products, including dried fruits, as in dry
pithy stalks, and is commonly found breeding as a scavenger in dry
decayed cotton bolls. In common with most other weevils, the
adults feign death for a short time when disturbed, and then suddenly
become active and seek to escape.

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part VIII. Tssued May 7, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY: A NEW ENEMY OF THE FLORIDA
ORANGE.

(Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance. )

By E. A. Back, Ph. D.
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

The attention of entomologists is called, for the first time, to the
discovery in this country of a new species of Aleyrodes which attacks
citrus trees. In view of the widespread havoc played among the
orange groves of Florida by the citrus white-fly (Aleyrodes citri Riley
and Howard) and the spotted-wing white-fly (Aleyrodes nubifera
Berger), the appearance among the orange trees at Tampa of another
aleyrodid which has already demonstrated itself to be of economic
importance is of interest, if not, indeed, a subject for considerable
concern.

During a recent examination of orange trees along several of the
streets in the business section of Tampa in connection with govern-
ment white-fly investigations that are being carried on in Florida by
the Bureau of Entomology, the attention of the writer was attracted
to dense white and grayish woolly secretions on the under surface of
many leaves. At first this was supposed to be a heavy infestation of
the rather scarce Paraleyrodes persex Quaintance, but on closer exami-
nation proved to be Aleyrodes howardi Quaintance, up to the present
time known only to infest orange trees on several of the West Indian
islands, especially Cuba.

INJURY AND EXTENT OF INFESTATION.

At present very little is known of the capacity for injury possessed
by this aleyrodid. Mr. C. L. Marlatt, Assistant Chief of the Bureau
of Entomology, found it quite abundant, locally, on several of the
old orange trees at Artimisa, Cuba, but at that time (1905) noted

65

66 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

that it had spread but slightly into the surrounding younger citrus
groves. When describing it for the first time Prof. A. L. Quaintance @
stated that, judging from its abundance on leaves sent to the Bureau
of Entomology from Cuba, it was a very serious pest of the Cuban
orange, possibly rivaling the well-known citrus white-fly in Florida.
Whatever damage it is causing in Cuba, where it may be partially
held in check by parasites and predaceous enemies, it has shown itself
capable of rapid multiplication and spread in its new home at Tampa.
Notwithstanding the fact that it has not been observed in Florida
before, although many trees now heavily infested have been under
casual observation during 1907 and 1908, it has become well estab-
lished over a very large portion of the city, spreading northward
beyond Michigan avenue and eastward about 2 miles, into Ybor City.
Orange groves in the more elevated portions of the city are thoroughly
infested, hence it is safe to presume that the pest is well established
in the western section of the city.

From the present infestation it appears that the insect first secured
a foothold along the water front, and this points to its possible impor-
tation from Cuba. In this section neglected worthless trees along
the streets and in dooryards are in many cases heavily infested. While
it appears to be rivaling the citrus white-fly in the extent of its attack
on some trees, it is improbable that it is capable of causing such
widespread disaster; nevertheless, if it becomes abundant in a grove,
it will prove a source of no little aggravation and discomfort to those
working in the trees because of the large and extremely viscid drops
of honeydew which collect over the bodies of the insects, and later
become embedded in the copious waxen secretions.

LIFE HISTORY.

Nothing has been published regarding the life history of this aleyro-
did aside from the statement made by Professor Quaintance (I. c.)
that the eggs lie prostrate on the leaf, and are arranged, more or less,
in circles or curves. When discovered in Tampa by the writer on
November 14, 1909, adults were abundant and depositing eggs upon
both new and old growth, showing the usual preference for the for-
mer, and larve in all stages, as well as pup, were numerous. Later,
on December 15, Mr. S. S. Crossman found adults abundant, and
examination of material at this time showed that pupe were still
maturing. The last brood of adults of this species is, therefore, on
wing later in the year than that of either the citrus or spotted-wing
white-fly. Adults were noted by the writer on a visit to Tampa dur-
ing late January.

aU.S. Dept. Agr., Bur. Ent., Tech. Ser. 12, Pt. V, pp. 91-92, 1907. The more impor-
tant Aleyrodide infesting economic plants, with description of a new species infesting
the orange.

Bul. 64, Part Vill, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE IV.

THE WOOLLY WHITE FLy (ALEYRODES HOoWaRp!) ON ORANGE.

Fig. 1.—Moderate infestation of leaf. showing many
tender leaf. Fig. 3. —Heavy infestation of leaf,
secretions overgrown by fungi. (Original.)

specimens in larval instars. Fig. 2.—Eggs on
showing globules of hone ydew embe dde din woolly

\

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY. 67

Unless molested or crowded each female deposits her eggs in a com-
plete circle (Pl. IV, fig. 2), she being always on the inside (fig. 19, c).
This arrangement she effects by using her mouth parts as a pivot
upon which to rotate her body. Since often as many as 3 or
4 rows of eggs are present in one circle, it is evident that the female
describes several circles while ovipositing before seeking a new place.
Although as few as 27 eggs have been counted in a single circle and
as many as 130 in a circle of 4 rows, it is probable that the larger
number does not indicate the maximum egg-laying capacity, which,
in the case of A. citri, has been found to be 222.

The eggs are whitish when deposited but soon turn to a dark-brown
or blackish color and become partially covered by waxen secretions
rubbed from the bodies of the adults. They are curved, the concave
side being upward (fig. 19, a, 6), and in hatching the membranes
rupture along the median distal half of the upper surface and do not
spring back into place after
the larva has escaped.

The larva after hatching
crawls about before settling.
It is yellowish, elliptical, with
9 pairs of marginal spines and
4 pairs of short, stout, dorsal
spines. Soon after ceasing
to crawl, it develops a short,
inconspicuous, Marginal wax
fringe similar to that of the

Fig. 19.—The woolly white-fly (Aleyrodes howardi): a,

first instar of A. nubifera (fig. Egg, showing attachment to leaf; 6, eggshell, viewed
20): In the second instar from above; c,female depositing eggs in a circle. c, Much

x E enlarged; a, b, highly magnified. (Original.)
the marginal bristles are lost

except one anterior and two posterior pairs, and the legs become
unfit for locomotion as is the case with other aleyrodids. During
this instar there develop 6 white abdominal cross-bands and a
distinct, white, marginal fringe of wax, varying in width with age,
often becoming 0.3 mm. wide; aside from these secretions, each of
the dorsal spines secretes a long, outstanding waxen rod, of varying
length, these rods being at all times characteristic of this instar
(see fig. 21). After passing into the third instar the larva, except in
point of size, assumes the appearance of the pupa; the marginal
fringe and abdominal secretions found in the preceding instar remain
practically the same, but these are largely or wholly concealed by
the long, white, curling, and variously matted secretions which arise
from along, but not on, the margin of the insect, giving to a leaf
infested with this species a woolly appearance (PI. IV, fig. 1) which,
when infestation is heavy, entirely conceals the insect beneath. These
threadlike secretions are often twice as long as the insect itself. At

68 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU-—IX.

emergence the pupa case splits at the anterior end, down both the
dorsal and ventral sides along the median line, on the dorsal side
splitting back to the first abdominal segment. The empty pupa
case is white and delicate. The adult insect of either sex is lemon-
yellow, with pure-white wings, without darker markings; the ground
color of the body being partially obscured by loose particles of waxen
secretions. The adult resembles closely A. citri, the citrus white-fly,
but carries its wings farther away from the body, thus leaving more
of the abdomen exposed.

A very characteristic feature of.
this species, as compared with
any of the Florida Aleyrodidz: now
known to the writer, is the globule
of honeydew which collects over
the vasiform orifice, often becoming
so large as to conceal the posterior
half of the body, and resembling
somewhat the secretions of the
persimmon Psylla. These globules
are extremely viscid and make the
handling of leaves infested with this
aleyrodid very disagreeable. They
collect in large numbers in_ the
waxen secretions on heavily infested
leaves (Pl. IV, fig. 3) and both
they and the secretions become
grayish and dust-laden with age.
The globules frequently become
overgrown by a rank growth of
Fig. 20.—The woolly white-fly: Larva of first greenish-brown. fungus resembling

instar, dorsal view, showing spines and the hyperparasitic species attacking
marginal wax fringe. Highly magnified. the yellow white-fly fungus, Ascher-
a sonia flavocitrina.

DESCRIPTION.

A detailed description of Aleyrodes howardi follows @:

The egg.—Length, 0.2 mm. to 0.19 mm.; width, 0.1 mm. to 0.088 mm. Uniformly
brownish in color, smooth, without reticulations or waxy secretions; curved, lying
prostrate on leaf, with convex side approximating latter, attached by short stalk
arising from convex surface about one-fourth distance from base to tip of egg. Eggs
deposited more or less in complete circles; spaces between eggs often filled with
waxy secretions rubbed from body of adults. (See fig. 19.)

«The original description of the pupa by Professor Quaintance has been used but
amplified by the writer.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY. 69

The larva, first instar.—Size about 0.26 mm. by 0.13 mm.; elliptical, yellowish-white,
with 9 pairs of short marginal bristles, arranged as in figure 20, the two posterior pairs
longest, the relative lengths being as follows:

eat 5 < S65 54 ae en ee ee ee eZ eee 45 5816. i859
Relative denpiliss 2 = eee aes eee ee 2G 4 Ob 4 8 8

After settling, an inconspicuous, transparent, marginal wax fringe develops, but
little exceeding in width the length of the marginal spines. Eyes reddish-brown, usual.
Dorsum with 4 pairs of short stout spines; 1 pair cephalad and mesad of eyes, 1 pair
at vasiform orifice, and 2 pairs on central region between the fifth and sixth, and sixth
and seventh pairs of marginal spines, respectively. Legs and antennz well devel-
oped, usual; vasiform orifice similar in shape to that of pupa, but without apparent
strong sete.

The larva, second instar.—Size, about 0.38 mm. by 0.22 mm. All marginal bristles
lost except 2 pairs of minute bristles, one at anterior, the other at posterior end of body.
Four pairs of bristles on dorsum located as in first instar, but different in that when
wax secretions are removed, the first 3 anterior
pairs are stout spindle-shaped (fig. 21, a), the
fourth pair at vasiform orifice, long and slender, as
in pupal stage; a fifth dorsal pair at caudal end of
body but not on margin, similar to those in pupal
stage. Color, brownish or black; margin with
narrow white wax fringe, equaling at times
0.3 mm. Instar conspicuous because of long
single, stout, outstanding waxen rods secreted
by each of the spindle-shaped dorsal spines,
and 6 abdominal cross bands of white waxen
secretions. Insects well advanced in this instar,
after the dorsal waxen rods have developed, pre-
sent a profile similar to that shown in figure 21,

at b. a
The larva, third instar.—Size, about 0.58 mm. 5

by 0.38 mm. Except in point of size, this re-

sembles the pupal instar in all respects. The .

spindle-shaped spines of the previous instar are Fig. 21.—The woolly white-fly, second

replaced by ordinary strong bristles. larval instar: a, Spindle-shaped spine; 5,
The puipa.—Size, aout 0.9 by 0.95 mm. sub- _ fasremmaenrofe showing chan

elliptical in shape. Many specimens with more (Original.) :

or less evident indentures on cephalo-lateral

margin of case, with cephalic end obtusely pointed. Color, on leaf, under hand
lens, with secretions removed, yellowish-brown varying to blackish; under transmitted
light, yellowish to brownish-yellow. There is a distinct marginal rim all around,
with wax tubes distinct, the incisions acute and tubes rounded distally. From
margin of case all around arises a short rim of wax, composed of individual wax-
threads, serrated on margin as seen under a high-power microscope. Pupa usually
quite covered by a very copious secretion of whitish, curling wax-rods which is
very conspicuous in badly infested leaves, quite hiding the insects beneath (Plate LV,
fig. 3); these waxen filaments often much greater in length than the insect’s body,
spreading outward when insects are not crowded, but upward when crowded; and
arising from along the outer portion of the case, but not on the margin itself from
which the above-mentioned distinct waxen fringe arises. Dorsum of pupx with
many wax-secreting pores; the secretions very short, irregular upon the cephalothoracic
region, and on the abdominal portion arranged in cross bands on each segment, being

70 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

most dense on the middle of the segments. Denuded of secretions, the pupa case
is seen to be at first almost flat, but later becoming rather convex as the insect
develops, with segments distinct.

Dorsum with pair (1) of strong setze on first abdominal segment, a pair (2) at vasi-
ferm orifice, and a pair (3) at, but not on, caudal margin extending some distance
beyond margin of case. There is also a pair of minute marginal spines (a) at the
anterior end, and another (b) at the posterior end of body. The relative lengths of
these spines are as follows:

Pals. bance Se steeete ee Seep es ee Rr sae ves ciea ae hs 72, Mee Soe 8h
Relative lengths: ==. .8 > o24.4 55a eee eee ee 14 16. 10. alba

There is also a pair of small bristles on the venter beneath the vasiform orifice.
Vasiform orifice relatively small, subcordate, the rim dark brown, from 6 to 8 strong
setze or spines arising from caudal
margin; operculum largely filling ori-
fice, the distal margin with two faint
notches; lingula not distinguishable.
(See fig. 22.)

The adult.—Usual, lemon - yellow,
after emergence becoming coated with
white waxen secretions; wings pure
white, without darker markings, held
along sides of abdomen, but not
meeting over the dorsum. A con-
siderable amount of flocculent white
wax is secreted, but not as copious
a supply as is secreted by the adult
of P. persex. In female: Length of
body, 0.42 to 0.47 mm.; length of fore
wing, 1.1 mm.; width of fore wing,
Fic. 22.—The woolly white-fly: Pupa case and details. 0.36 mm.; length of antenna, 0.31

Greatly enlarged. (From Quaintance. ) mm.; length of hind tibia, 0.035
mm.; relative lengths of antennal segments as follows:

Decmenitts soto == sae oer ee ae i 2) 3 4 D4 66>) 7 Spine:
Relativerlencthtssec-s-ssee-— ey al) ALB Bes AG lay OL

FOOD PLANTS.

The woolly white-fly infests the various species of citrus, the
guava, and the mango. While found on the mango at Tampa by
the writer, its presence on this plant is probably the result of acei-
dent. Mr. W. L. Tower is authority for its occurrence on guava in
Porto Rico.

DISTRIBUTION.

This species occurs on several islands of the West Indies, but
more especially in Cuba. It is now established at Tampa, Fla.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

While no predaceous insects are known to attack this aleyrodid,
Cook and Horn® have reported it parasitized by the “red fungus,”

aCook, M. T., and Horne, W. T., Cuban Exp. Sta. Bul. 9, p. 31, 1908.

THE WOOLLY WHITE-FLY. 71

Aschersonia aleyrodis, in Cuba, and Mr. W. L. Tower, entomologist of
the Porto Rican Experiment Station, reports that in Porto Rico it
is held in check by fungi (undetermined).

REMEDIES.

So far as known to the writer no remedial measures have been
adopted against this pest up to the present time. Its recent dis-
covery has not made it possible for experiments leading to its con-
trol to be concluded although such experiments are now in progress.
From present indications it seems probable that this white-fly will
be more easily controlled by fumigation than by spraying, inasmuch
as when nearly mature it is very well protected from spray liquids
by the secretions mentioned above. Present indications are that
during the early larval instars it is as well controlled by spraying
as are the citrus and the spotted-wing white-flies, with which it is
found associated.

78936°—Bull. 64—11——6

U.S. D.A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part IX. Issued October 17, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT.

(Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel.)

By H. O. Marsu,
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

A medium-sized ant, known scientifically as Formica cinereorufi-
barbis Forel, is one of the most common species occurring in the vicin-
ity of Rocky Ford, Colo, The nests which it constructs along the
fences and irrigation ditches are mounded up very little or not at all,
but often cover a considerable area. Sometimes these nests are 3 or
4 feet in length by 2 or 3 feet in width, and they always have several
openings.

During the growing season this species of ant is always to be
found in attendance on various species of aphides or plant lice.
During the summer of 1909 it was-most commonly found together
with the melon aphis (Aphis gossypii Glov.) on cucurbits, and with
Chaitophorus populicola Thos. on cottonwood. The ants were also
observed attending a species of Membracide on alfalfa, and late in
the season after the leaves had fallen great numbers were found
clustered and feeding upon crushed overripe cantaloupes, sometimes
out in the field 25 yards from any ant nests.

As the ants were almost invariably to be found on aphis-infested
cantaloupe vines, many of the growers are of the opinion that they
are responsible, in part at least, for the spread of the aphides from
one vine to another. There is also a rather general idea that the
ants take the aphides into their nests in the fall, protect them through-
out the winter, and then bring them out in the spring and put them
upon the plants.

INJURIOUS HABITS.

There appears to be but little foundation for believing that the
ants harbor the melon aphis during the winter, and after careful
, watching the writer has never seen any aphides being carried into the

73

Us MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

nests. However, these ants do protect the aphides from their natural
enemies on the growing plants, and it is a common thing to see the
ants busily engaged in killing and carrying off the syrphid larve,
which were doing good work in destroying the “lice.” They were
also repeatedly observed carrying away adults of the convergent lady-
bird (Hippodamia convergens Guer.), the nabid bug Reduviolus ferus
L., and a species of Chrysopa. The ladybird larve apparently were
not molested, while the beneficial syrphid larvee were objects of special
attack, and it was not unusual to see as many as ten or twelve larve
being carried away from a single vine at a time. Wherever the ants
were abundant the syrphid larve were noticeably reduced in number,
and the aphides thus had a better chance of increasing. The ants
appear to use the syrphid larve as food, as they were observed carry-
ing them into their nests, which, in several cases, were 12 or 15 feet
from the vines infested by the aphides.

EXPERIMENTS WITH POTASSIUM CYANID AS A REMEDY.

As frequent inquiries were made by the melon growers concerning
possible remedies for use against the ants it was decided to conduct
a series of experiments. Owing to the large number of nests which
occur along practically every fence and ditch, and to the large size
of the nests, and particularly to the fact that each nest has several
openings, it was obvious that carbon bisulphid would be too expen-
sive for practical use with this species, and it was decided to make
the experiments with various solutions of potassium cyanid. The
object of these experiments was to determine if repeated applications
would materially reduce the number of the ants and, if the ants were
thus reduced, what effect it would have on the melon-aphis problem.

In making these experiments a strip about 80 yards in length
was selected along a fence at the edge of a cantaloupe field. This strip
was bordered along one side by a common road or highway and
occupied along the center by a row of elm trees which were too
small to cause any shade worth mentioning, as none of them was over
4 inches in diameter at the base. There were at least twenty-five
distinct nests in this strip, and the ants occurred by thousands.
Cantaloupes had been planted in the field along this strip for several
successive years, and each year the first few rows nearest the fence
were infested by melon “‘lice,’ while the vines which were beyond
the convenient range of the ants were not infested, or at least not
until later in the season. The owner of the cantaloupes was firmly
convinced that the ants were responsible for the infestation of the
first few rows and welcomed any attempt to destroy them.

In order to determine the cheapest and most practical solution the
following preliminary tests were made:

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT. 15

Experiment No. 1.—One-half ounce of 98 per cent cyanid of potash
dissolved in 1 gallon of water was used. On August 31,1909,at 5 p.m.,
2 gallons of this solution were applied to a nest 24 feet in length by
2feet in width. The entire outer surface of the nest was soaked and a
considerable quantity was poured directly into the openings. Ants
which were hit died almost at once and others which returned from
the field and ran over the wet surface died within a few seconds.
When the nest was examined an hour later the surface was well
covered with dead specimens. There was still a fairly strong odor
of the cyanid from the wet soil and returning ants were soon killed,
although they did not die quite as rapidly as when the application
was first made.

Experiment No. 2.—One ounce of 98 per cent cyanid in 1 ae of
water was used. On August 31, between 5.30 and 5.45 p. m., 4
gallons of this solution were bpplicd to two nests, each aoe 3 She
long and 2 feet wide. The conditions were as in Experiment No. 1
and the immediate results appeared to be about the same.

Expervment No. 3.—Two ounces of 98 per cent cyanid in 1 gallon
of water were used. On August 31, at 6 p. m., 2 gallons of this
solution were applied to a nest about 3 feet long by 2 feet wide.
The immediate results appeared to be about the same as in Experi-
ments Nos. 1 and 2, although there was a somewhat stronger odor
of the cyanid from the wet soil.

At the time these three tests were made the sun was warm and
shining brightly. The ants were very active and thousands of them
were away from the nests and among the aphis-infested cantaloupe
vines.

Since the larger lumps of cyanid dissolved rather slowly some
time was gained by breaking them up with a hammer.

At 4p. m. on September 1 an examination was made of the nests
treated in these tests. At that time there were hundreds of dead ants
lying on the surface of the nests and a comparatively small number
of specimens was running about. Most of the living ants had appar-
ently lost interest in the aphides and had gathered on or about the
treated nests and some were carrying dead specimens. There
appeared to be little difference between the results of Experiments
Nos. 1 and 2, but there were certainly fewer live ants about the nest
treated in Experiment No. 3 than about the others.

As some fear was felt that a strong solution of the cyanid might
kill the small elm trees which occupied the ant-infested strip and as
Experiment No. 1 gave comparatively good results, it was concluded
to continue the work with that strength. Accordingly, between
4.30 and 6 p. m. on September 1, the remainder of the infested strip,
about 65 yards in length and containing 21 nests, was treated with

76 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IKX.

28 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-half ounce of 98 per cent
cyanid to each gallon of water. At the time of this treatment there
were thousands of ants either actually in attendance on the “‘lice”
or running about between the nests and the infested cantaloupe vines.

At 6 p. m. on September 2 the treated strip was examined. Dead
ants by thousands, at some places in heaps, were lying on or about
the nests. Many dead specimens were also found out in the field
from 6 to 10 feet from the nests. However, at every nest there were
still a few live ants. Practically all of these survivors had gathered
about the nests and it was difficult to find a live ant out in the field,
where at the time of the treatment they occurred in surprisingly large
numbers.

In order to test the effect of a second treatment applied soon after
the first, two nests near the center of the strip were given a second
application at 5.30 p. m. September 3. This was considered as
Experiment No. 4. In this experiment 2 galions of solution at the
rate of one-half ounce cyanid to each gallon of water were applied
to each nest as before.

An examination made of these nests on the following afternoon
(September 4) showed that although a few additional ants had been
killed no practical advantage had been gained by this treatment,
and this conclusion was not altered by frequent later examinations.

Along the entire treated strip the ants which remained alive seemed
demoralized for about a week, but by September 11 several small col-
onies had again started. The cyanid solution does not penetrate very
deeply into the nests and it is evident that the pupe escape destruc-
tion unless they are very close to the surface, and on reaching ma-
turity they are able, with the remaining live ants, to reestablish the
colonies.

By September 16 one or two of these colonies (nests) had reached
fairly good size and although the ants were moderately common
they occurred in very much smaller numbers than they did at the
time of the first general treatment (September 2). This first treat-
ment left the nests with a ‘‘crust”’ of compact soil over the surface.
At two or three nests, just under the crust, the ants had large numbers
of pupe and at a few other nests a considerable number of winged
adults had crawled out and was clustered about the openings.

At this date (September 16) all the nests in the entire strip were
again treated with 25 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-half
ounce of 98 per cent cyanid to each gallon of water. A particular
effort was made to soak the winged specimens and the pupz. All the
adults touched were readily killed, but the pupzx showed no immediate
effect from the treatment.

An examination made on the following afternoon showed that
although the number of ants had been very considerably reduced.

NOTES ON A COLORADO ANT. rhe

there were still some living specimens at each nest. The pupe at the
treated nests seemed to be dead and the living ants paid no attention
to them. It was observed that at two places quite a number of
pupx had been overlooked and not soaked by the solution and at
another place a moderate number of winged specimens had crawled
from an opening of an untreated (overlooked) nest.

By September 27 about a dozen small, weak colonies had started,
and on the following day between 4 and 5 p. m. all the inhabited nests
were again treated with 25 gallons of the solution at the rate of one-
half ounce of 98 per cent cyanid to each gallon of water. In this
treatment all the openings in the nests were enlarged with a pointed,
stick and from a quart to a gallon of the solution poured into each.
At this date many of the cantaloupe vines had been trampled down
by the pickers or had died from disease or other cause. As a result
there was not a very good supply of aphides in the immediate vicinity
of the nests and the ants were mostly close about or in the nests.
At two places many pup were present and at another nest there were
a good many winged specimens.

Examination made on the following day (September 29) showed
that there were still a few living ants about the nests, and the pup
were still light in color and did not appear to be dead. A day later
some of the pupz appeared to be still alive, but as all of these were
embedded in the moist soil, where the living ants paid no attention
to them, they certainly could not have survived. At this time there
was no odor of the cyanid over the nests, but when lumps of the
moist soil were picked up the odor from them was quite apparent.

Repeated examinations made of the treated strip during October
and November showed that the ants had almost completely disap-
peared, while at untreated (check) nests they occurred in large num-
bers. It would be interesting to know what became of the few
specimens which survived the last treatment. Possibly they became
discouraged and went to less troubled quarters.

It is evident that from experiments of this nature definite or final
conclusions can not yet be reached. The work was begun so late
in the season that the rather gradual decrease in the number
of the ants had no marked effect on the melon aphis. It showed
that to keep this species within reasonable bounds repeated appli-
cations of the cyanid and constant watching are necessary. As
this would require so much more attention than the ordinary farmer
can be induced to give, it does not seem probable that this method
will ever become very popular for this particular species of ant,
unless it can be definitely proved that this species is a more important
factor in the melon-aphis problem than it is now known to be. It is
very probable that quicker results would have been obtained if a
stronger solution had been used.

78 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

At Rocky Ford, Colo., 98 per cent potassium cyanid was obtainable
in small lots for 50 cents a pound. When used at the rate of a pound
in 30 or 32 gallons of water this makes a comparatively cheap solution.

Although this solution is extremely poisonous, there need not be
undue risk to human beings from its use if proper care is exercised
in preparing and handling it. When leaning over a half barrel of the
solution for the purpose of stirring it or dipping out pailfuls, the
fumes were quite noticeable and, with the writer, caused a slight dull
headache which lasted a short time. Although in applying the solu-
tion the writer’s hands were frequently wet with it, and no ill effects
resulted, yet it would be safer to keep the solution from coming into
Contact with the skin. Some persons are peculiarly susceptible to
this poison, and with some its contact with the skin causes a rash.
Persons with weak hearts should be especially careful not to inhale
the fumes.

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 64, Part X. Issued November 12, 1910.

SOME MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF THE WORK
OF THE BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—IX.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.

(Coleophora caryxfoliella Clem.)

By H. M. Russetn,
Agent and Expert.

INTRODUCTION.

Among the insects of minor importance that affect the pecan, the
pecan cigar case-bearer (Coleophora caryefoliella Clem.) is probably
met with in groves more than any other species. At times the insect
occurs in such numbers as to defoliate entire trees, checking their
erowth and considerably reducing the crop of nuts. In the future
this insect is likely to cause increasing damage as the acreage in
pecans increases, and it may become as great a pest to the pecan as
Coleophora fletcherella Fernald is to the apple. The occurrence of this
insect in large numbers at Orlando, Fla., during the spring of 1909
presented the opportunity of studying it, and the results are given
in this article. The dates for appearance of the different stages are
for that locality. These dates will undoubtedly vary as we go north-
ward.

EARLY HISTORY.

Clemens !? first described this species in 1861, as Coleophora caryefo-
liella, from larvee found feeding in their cases on leaves of hickory
during the fall. He gave a short description of the larva and case,
but did not succeed in rearing the adult.

In 1872 Clemens’s original description? was republished in his
““Tineina of North America,’ edited by H. T. Stainton.

Chambers,’ in 1874, described the adult under the name Coleophora
rufoluteella, from specimens captured in Kentucky in June.

Writing again in 1878, Chambers‘ places his rufoluteella as a
synonym under caryzfoliella. He wrote at that time: “C. rufoluteella
Cham. is known only from captured specimens. I am, however,
utterly unable to distinguish it from specimens bred by me in the
latter part of June from larval cases found feeding on hickory leaves

a The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the appended
bibliography, p. 86.
79

80 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

in the manner described by Doctor Clemens for caryxfoliella, and I
believe it to be the same species. ”’

During 1882 Lord Walsingham ® identified a specimen, reared from
Prunus americana, as C. rufoluteella which he thought to be distinct
from caryefoliella. Packard,’ in 1890, wrote of this msect, under
insects injurious to hickory: ‘‘The larva feeds in a cylindrical case
attached to the under surface of the leaves.”’

During the same year there was published in Insect Life? a brief
note recording the parasite, Rhyssalus trilineatus Ashm., as having
been reared from this species on hickory at Washington, D. C., May
5, 1883.

Apparently nothing more was written until 1905, when Gossard,$
in his bulletin on pecan insects, mentions what is undoubtedly this
species as ‘Coleophora sp.”

RECENT RECORDS.

May 5, 1901, Mr. L. O. McPherson, of Josephine, Ala., sent in larvee
of this species affecting the pecan. Writing of this attack, October 23,
1905, Mr. McPherson stated that in the year mentioned this insect
entirely denuded a number of large trees of their leaves during
May and June only.

June 3, 1907, the larval cases of this insect were observed on pecan
at Orlando, Fla. March 16, 1908, the winter cases of these larvee
were found clustered together on twigs of pecan in a deserted grove
outside of Orlando. April 2 and 7, 1908, the larve were again
observed at Orlando, Fla. They were just leaving their winter cases
for the larger spring cases.

In 1909, during April and May, several large trees in the grove of
Mr. C. W. Townsend, of Orlando, Fla., were almost completely pre-
vented from putting out foliage until weeks after other trees had done
so, because the larvae of this species were so numerous on the buds
and leaves. May 11 found this insect causing considerable defolia-
tion to pecan trees at the old Standard Oil grove just west of Orlando,
now owned by Mr. Long. At the same time it was abundant in all
the groves around Orlando. On May 16 Mr. J. D. Mitchell, of this
Bureau, reared this insect from leaves of pecan at Victoria, Tex.

DISTRIBUTION.

This species was first described by Clemens in a paper on North
American Tineina, but the locality for his specimens is not given.
V. T. Chambers records it from larval cases taken in Kentucky and
records capture of the adult at Covington, Ky. Prof. H. A. Gossard
records what is undoubtedly this species as met with on “almost
every tree I examined for the purpose of finding it” in Florida.
The author, while working in Florida during the years 1907-1909,
found it in every grove examined around Orlando.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. §1

In the Bureau of Entomology and the U.S. National Museum there
are specimens from McPherson, Ala.; Victoria, Tex.; Pittsburg, Pa.;
Hampton, N. H.; Washington, D. C.; Virginia; and New York.

From these records of capture and injury, this insect seems to be
distributed throughout the Austroriparian faunal area of the United

States and may also
extend into the Caro-
linian and into the
lower edge of the
Alleghanian areas.

FOOD PLANTS.

The pecan cigar
case-bearer feeds
principally on nut-
bearing trees, and of
these it has been ob-
served feeding on
walnut, pecan, and
hickory. It has been
doubtfully recorded
on dogwood and
Prunus americana.

CHARACTER OF IN-
JURY.

Damage by the pe-
can cigar case-bearer
occurs during— the
early spring, prin-
cipally to budded
trees, and is due to
the feeding of the
larvee on the tender
buds and unfolding
leaves. Where this
insect is very abun-
dant it causes injury
in two ways. If the

Fig, 23.—Pecan twigs with buds and young leaves killed by pecan
cigar case-bearer ( Coleophora caryzfoliella). (Original.

buds are backward in opening, the larve leave the twigs where they
have hibernated, and crawling to the swelling buds attack them and
eat out the contents, so that the life is destroyed, and before the tree
can put outits foliage the dormant buds must develop. Figure 23, taken
May 6, 1909, shows pecan twigs with buds destroyed by these larvee ;

82 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX,.

the winter cases are still seen attached to sides of the buds. On the
other hand, if the trees develop their foliage before the larve leave
hibernation in injurious numbers, the leaves are riddled by the larve
as they come from the twigs and the wind soon whips them to pieces.
In this way, by feeding on the opening buds and young leaves in
great numbers, this insect may delay the trees from coming into foliage
for a period of from six to eight weeks. Because of this, young trees
are held back during the most important period of their growth, and
older trees, owing to this extra demand for nourishment for building
leaves, probably have the crop of nuts for the year considerably
decreased. Plate V, figure 1, shows a pecan twig with the young
leaves ragged and largely destroyed by this insect, and Plate V, figure
2, shows the mines of the larvee and some of the case-bearers at work.
Plate VI is from a photograph of a pecan tree, taken May 6, 1909,
showing injury by this insect. Plate VII shows a tree not attacked
by this insect, which had been in full
foliage for at least four weeks. When
<S@ the writer left Orlando, June 13, the
injured tree shown in Plate VI was still
partly bare.

\

DESCRIPTION.

The adult.—Coleophora caryexfoliella

phora caryzefoliella): a, Adult; b, ¢, larve hy narrow, pointed wings with long
in cases. Greatly enlarged. (Original.) % ° 2
fringes on the inner margins. The adult
is a delicate little moth, ochreous in color, with a wing expanse of about
9mm. The head is yellowish ochreous, with white scales over the
eyes, the palpi and base of the antennz the same color as the head,
and the rest of the antennae white ringed with brown. The body is
the same color as the head, while the fore wings are reddish ochreous
with costal margin white and fringe on inner border gray, and the
hind wings are gray or whitish. This moth is well illustrated in
figure 24 at a.

Chambers described the adult as follows:

The species is ochreous; the head and palpi pale or yellowish ochreous; the an-
tenn white, annulate with brown; fore wings reddish ochreous, darker towards the
apex, with the costal margin from base to cilia white.

The ornamentation of the imago is nearer that of C. limosipennella than to any of
the other species figured in Nat. Hist. Tin. Al. ex. 4} lines.

The eqg—The egg has not been observed by the author, but is
probably very similar to that of C. fletcherella as described by A. G.
Hammar.%

a United States Dept. Agr., Bur. Ent., Bul. 80, Pt. II, p. 37, June 30, 1909.

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE V.

Fig. 1.—T wig of pecan, showing injury to foliage. (Original.)

Fig. 2.—Leaves of pecan, showing mines. On upper leaf are lary in cases at work. About
natural size. Original.)

WORK OF THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER (COLEOPHORA CARYAFOLIELLA).

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. 83

The larva and larval cases—The case in which the larva passes the
winter is small, 3-3.5 mm. long, very flat, cylinderlike, and by the
end of winter has the same color as the twigs or bark on which it
rests. In the spring the larva is found in a case that is considerably
larger. This is 5-7 mm. long, cylindrical, flattened vertically at the
upper end, and slightly rounded at the lower. This case is made
from a hollowed portion of leaf and so shows the entire leaf structure.
It becomes reddish brown in color, and resembles a minute cigar.

The mature larva is about 5.5 mm. long and 1 mm. wide, the
cylindrical body having well-marked segments. The head is one-
half as wide as the body, hemispherical, flattened, black in color,
with the triangle reddish. The body is ight brown, with cervical
shield oval, shining black, divided along center by a light brown line.
The third segment of the body has a small black shield like the
cervical, the anal plate shining black. The surface of the body is
finely punctured and bears scattered, short, white hairs. The legs
are ight brown, while the prolegs are wanting or very small, marked
by minute elevations, except the anal pair, which are large and
functional.. The nearly mature larva is well illustrated in its case in
figure 24, b, c.

The pupa.—The pupa is formed within the larval case, and is
about 5.5 mm. long and 1 mm. wide, cylindrical, having nearly the
same diameter throughout the entire length. The head and eyes are
blackish, while the remainder of the pupa is light yellowish-brown.
The leg cases extend beyond the tip of the abdomen.

Clemens described this species from the larval case, but did not
rear the adult. His original description is as follows:

1. C. caryxfoliella. The larva mines the leaves of hickory in September and
October. The head and body is [are] reddish-brown, somewhat darker on the second
and third rings.

The case is small, dark brownish, and in form is a flattened simple cylinder. The
larva feeds only in small rectangular patches, of which there are usually several in
the same leaf. The case is fixed to the under surface and the larva feeds in one patch

until it is compelled to remove its entire body from its case, and then removes to
another part of the leaf to form a new mine.

HABITS OF THE ADULT.

The moths emerge from the pup during May and June and at that
time may be found among the pecan trees. When only recently
emerged from the pup they rest either on the pupal cases or on the
leaves or twigs of the host plant, with the fore wings folded back
over the hind wings and flat over the abdomen, while the antennex
are held closely together and directed forward. During the day they
seem to rest among the leaves.

84 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.
HABITS OF THE LARVA.

The oe of Coleophora caryxfoliella, upon hatching from the
egos in July, mine the leaves of the host plant, and after foodie there
for some time cut out the two skins of the mine and construct the
cases within which they live during the fall and winter. After the:
cases are made the larve feed upon the leaves by eating through the
lower epidermis and tunneling out the interior of the leaf in all
directions until the mine is so large that to mine farther the larvee
would have to leave their cases. Under such conditions they move
and begin a new mine, so that the leaves become full of irregular
rectangular patches of brown with a small round hole in the center
on the underside. In feeding, the larve carry the cases nearly
perpendicular to the leaf surface. When the larva move they extend
the head and thorax and crawl along, bearing the case aloft behind.
In the fall; some time in October, before the leaves fall, these larvee
move from the leaves to the twigs or to the trunk, where they get
behind the bark. Often they get in between the bud and the twig.
Here they fasten the cases to the support and hibernate. The writer
has seen from fifteen to twenty minute cases on a twig 4 to 5 inches
in length, and where very abundant they will cluster fooe tes literally
in fondicgs Gossard? has a photograph of these winter cases com-
pletely covering a twig.

In the spring, when the weather becomes warm enough, generally
between March 15 and April 1, these larve become active and leave
the twigs, where they have spent the winter, to commence feeding.
If the trees are backward they often begin to feed before the leaves
have developed and in such cases attach themselves to the swelling
buds. Each larva eats a minute round hole into’a bud and feeds as
long as it can reach food without leaving its small case. When this
becomes impossible the larva changes position and attacks the bud
in a new place, so that infested buds are often found with four or
five holes in the sides. Under such treatment the buds are killed or
the tiny leaves start and are killed, and turning brown drop off.
Often the larvee attack the young tender leaves and mine out rectan-
gular blotches in them. About the first week in April these larvee
outgrow their winter cases and construct larger ones.

Larvee forming new cases move to the edge of the leaf and mine
between the two skins. They then cut out a portion of the leaf,
using the edge for one side. The sides are then sealed with silk, an
opening being left at one end for the head. From the method of
making new nests one edge of the case will often show serrations of
the leaf edge. The larve then leave the old case attached to the
leaf, where the latter has been cut to form a new case. They eat
out large mines from 2 to 8 mm. long and 4 to 5 mm. wide (Pl. V,

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PiaATE VI.

FE ree es. Ree, ae
> ‘ 5 ay oe et
ater SP ac ee eee

PECAN TREE, SHOWING FOLIAGE CHECKED AND INJURY BY PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER.
(ORIGINAL. )

Bul. 64, Part X, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE VII.

NORMAL PECAN TREE, SAME SIZE AS THAT SHOWN IN PLATE VI, BUT WITHOUT INJURY
BY THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. (ORIGINAL.

THE PECAN CIGAR CASE-BEARER. 85

fig. 2) in the leaves, feeding generally on the under side but some-
times on the upper also. These mines are deserted by the larvee
when they can not reach more of the surrounding tissue without
leaving their cases, and new mines are made. In this way badly
infested leaves may have from six to twenty mines to each leaflet.
Soon the old mines dry up and are broken out by the wind, leaving
the leaves full of ragged holes. The larvee feed during the day and can
often be seen with the head and part of the body inserted between
the leaf surfaces, eating out the tissues in an ever-enlarging angular
mine. If disturbed or in search of fresh food, these larve will move
around considerably. When making a new mine the end of the case
is loosely fastened and held diagonally attached, to the leaf. (See

fig. 24.)
HABITS OF THE PUPATING LARVA.

During May most of the larve become mature and they then
either fasten the case tightly to the leaves and pupate or move to
twigs, branches, or bits of bark on the trunk of the tree and fasten
the cases there. The larve spin a quantity of silk by which they
fasten the cases very firmly to the support, after which they reverse
their position, so that the head is pointing out toward the unattached
end. After remaining quiet for a number of days the pup are
formed, and the adults emerge during the last of May or the first of

June.
SEASONAL HISTORY.

As far as observed, this insect has only one brood during the year,
the larve hibernating when only partially grown.

In Florida the larve of this species become active from the 15th
to the 30th of March, when the buds of the pecan are opening, or
just after they have opened. Leaving the twigs and sheltered
places where they have hibernated, they begin feeding on the buds
or tender leaves. In a short time these larve outgrow their old
winter cases and construct new ones of larger size. During the spring
of 1908 this occurred mostly between April 1 and April 7.

The larve, after forming new cases, continue feeding and grow
rapidly until May, when they become full grown.

1 By May 4, 1909, a few larve pupated and, as others pupated from
time to time, by May 19 or 20 the greater part of the brood was in
the pupal state. This pupal period occupies about twelve days.

An adult was observed in the cage on May 11, but most of the
moths emerge from May 27 to June 5. On June 3 the adults were
abundant on the foliage of pecan.

The adult probably lays her eggs on the underside of the leaves
during June, and by the middle of July the larve are working as
miners in the leaves of pecan. After a time they construct their

86 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

minute cases and feed on the foliage until fall, probably until the
last of September or first part of October, when they move to twigs to
hibernate, sometimes being packed around them by the hundreds.
Others hibernate under bits of bark on the trees or in crotches and
other sheltered spots.

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Where this insect becomes abundant enough to be injurious it
ean with little doubt be controlled by spraying the trees with
arsenate of lead (at the rate of 3 pounds to 50 gallons of water)
when the buds are swelling—in March in central Florida and in
similar climates. When the larve attack the foliage, this should be
similarly sprayed.

Lime-sulphur mixture applied during the dormant season would
undoubtedly give good results.

Where trees are sprayed in spring for the budworm (Proteopteryx
deludana Clem.) no further treatment will be required for the case-
bearer.

A bibliographical list follows:

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. CLEMENS, BRACKENRIDGE.—Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Phila-
delphia, Vol. I, p. 78, 1861.
Original description of the species from larva and case; adult not reared.
2. CLEMENS, BrRACKENRIDGE.—Tineina of North America, p. 166, 1872. Edited
by H. T. Stainton.
Same account as in No. 1.
3. CHamBERS, V. T.—Canadian Entomologist, Vol. VI, p. 129, 1874.
Described captured adults as C. rufoluteella n. sp.
4. CHambBers, V. T.—Canadian Entomologist, Vol. X, p. 112, 1878.
Made his rufoluteella synonym of caryfoliella, giving description of adult, larva, and larval case,
and brief account of larval habits.
WaLsINGHAM, THos.—Transactions of the Entomological Society of London for
1882, pp. 430-431. ,
Regards rufoluteella as distinct from caryzfoliella.
6. Packarp, A. S.—Fifth Report U. S. Entomological Commission, p. 316, 1890.
A brief account of habits.
[Eprror1AL].—Insect Life, Vol. II, p. 351, 1890.
Mention of parasite.
8. Gossarp, H. A.—Bul. 79, Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, p. 304, 1905.

Brief account of injury to pecan by an unidentified Coleophora, probably this species, and
remedies.

ct

“I

Brief mention has also been made of the occurrence of this species
in Florida and Texas in recent Yearbooks of the Department.

INDEX.

Page

Adeliopria longii, parasite of Ceratopogon wheeleri.......-.....--+----+-+-+--+-+++-- 28

rides, food plants of Helhiothrips hemorrhoidalis...........--..-----------+--: 51

Aisculus hippocastanum, habitat of Ceratopogon hippocastani..........--.------ 28

ReweungicaL conditions at Barstow, Uexees-s4tict oe oe ati. 2 ee Sb tee 2
Agromyza xneiventris taken on loco weed (Aragallus), clover, Ambrosia, and

gS eee ci l= mio cio = ai oso wre Saye Stereo ie = Sato eyacl alee ict ake (ig gare Ble ta a¥e lel ENS 41

miemedeser, enemy ol clirus in Mlonda...-.0.2.2--2+22-0-see02 J. Soe es 65

(S110: 2) Rea GR ee AS NS IS a Ear Oe eM ae AE a eRe Pa 65-71

aduliiydesempinon-ee. sass Aveed aici ge oh ck Gok eee 70

(eseripiione spose pat et ety. Seek Sot erat ees 68-70

SK MOn em eee er sete ene Sai eo Cabs Leh BEE ee etait 70

Carn GeneminuOners cae aa uses ee cts Skee obebiees edie 68

Elle MM ean Alnalee eee sens Hes AN cs Ae oe 70-71

(05 6) 0) CAN ge ee a See eae are ee 70

aniMunysane, extent of mniestation=....2.45--22.2222 42 0 Hibs ee Je 65-66

SINGLOC Ne MON asses nasties Sitio ew bs ack egies se 65

lary a, firsh instar, eserip tlOns6 60s ok See c eek eet cee ok 69

Second instar ;deseripmone 22 e202. Weis enc sacl oe 69

third anstar: desempilon:.-coshcteeet sc salg= soe 69

NERO asec o ue See Ae wy SNS. a aad adi < Sea lurk ee woe 66-68

lips MSEC HIP MOM 3.225 soem oa Salo foe a est os, BOO

THM ee rest ee Ite he IR aR ia cide Ws cles oe Sets Seer 71

wuovera.,enenny cor clits im Ploridas 22h. ..22s.-. 2. 24 lees see 65

Alfalfa, avoidance of injury to seed crop by conchuela .....-..-.-..-.----- 12

damage by Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi in 1905.........-...-.-------- 3-5

previous’ to 1905.4. -2_ 2-2-2 3

POOL Plant Of -A Dts Medengimiseecuckless a. =... -' = - secs sete e es 40

Pentatomaligatassscsee pees = =~ 22). 5-242 - eee eee oe 3-5

SEU ete Re oi 32 Dia eo a Zo

protection from attacks of conchuela and grain bug........-------.- 12-14

Alligator pear. (See Persea gratissima.)

Alydus eurinus on Lima beans and cowpeas..........-----------------++--- 41

faker on -loear weeasesosenaacss 52... 2 Gee ree en 41

Pima ae ken ON LOCO: WEEUE =. ete, o.~ an = en.nis ac 5 ole eS a ee cee nee 41

Amaranthus, food plant of Hadronotus militaris.........-..--.----+---------+--- 41

Asabrosis, food plant of Agromyza xnetventris....-.-----s-00s--+----+--------- 41

Amor pha fruticosa, food plant of Walshia amorphella.......--...--------------. 34

Sees barbers, location of Jarvee:-.....s-0- d.-0.sceqeseete eens <2 --222e-s 24-25

EEEICH Ol A COLOTACO SPECleS. .. 2.05. - 22 525-474 MeeeePee 55-5. - ences ene 73-78

TENE EORWCOOSer = Oss - Sen S hhh ceca oe eS wo le ee eA i 40

eee sean ereonhouse thrips... ..- +. tataswae ses sence caececends 53-54

Aphides attended by Formica cinereorufibarbis..........-------------+------- 73-74

Aphiochxta pygmxa on Astragalus mollissimus....-.--------- poate pie sit a eee 42

Aphis, bur-clover. (See Aphis medicaginis.)
cotton. (See Aphis gossypii.)

78936°—Bull. 64117 .” oe

>

88 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Aphis gossypti on cucurbits, attendance by Formica cinereorufibarbis...... 73-74
medicaginis.on loco; weeds). 422722 2 aa e eee ee ee 40
prey of Mippodamia convergens=. -2--23- 952. soe es eee 40
melon. (See Aphis gossypii.)

punk against sreenhouse thrips? 22-8 4.8 oe ee ee ee 54

Anion zxneipenne'on Meibomia (Desmodium): f252559.-22-.-2 ee. eee Ss
colon on wild beanin Mexicos.f<2552 Sas). sree see Sec ie eee 30
eribricolleson VDotusig labTnasace Skee eee ee ee ee 31
decoloratum on Meibomia paniculata and M. grandiflora, parasite... --- 31-32
fraternum,; synonymiot-A pion. griseums st. 2-22 Ses see Se ee 30
griseum, food fants and habits; parasite: . 92952 5-.423ee2 2. ee 29-30
herculanunyfoodsplantss siosret2: - Peis ase ss se eee Cee ee eee 32
injurious North American species, with notes on related forms... .-.- 29-32
TAGE OD LOCUST easter eeeee ose eee D. B 2ee 1s eS OE ns A 31
patruele on wild lesume 4.2 oe: ee Se sone - She sasee Ae ae eee 3l
prociive'on Lupinus arborea, parasite.....--.2J6ss-6 =e) eee o= eee ee 31
segnipes on Cracca virginiana, parasite...-:-2.-.0-s282 520 eee tees eee eee 31
tunbulentum om Meibomiamanyjlandica-2-ss02 = eae eee eee 31
Apple, food plant.of Coleophora fleicherella:....-.... 2282: 2e- 02) see: Sas eee 79
Heliothnips hamorrhowdalis... 232 y-ae See ee ae 44
Apples, food of Buresta notata os ois <=. 2 wn 22 225/35 Seer oe ae ee oe 39
PAR CETUS JOUSCLOULOUUS (ao: ap2rn nia nesin =aminciaecie Hee oe aes OSes Reis See = 2. Se eee 61-64
habits iniveneraltcs.S.ces-ac<c5). cee ee oe one ee oer 64
in chimaberrtes. «seas ese 4. Sete Toys eae eo eee 63-64
injury to. coms ssc seieetG JAS 2 Sea eeee Soo ee epee 61-62
Introd UCHON-. .tHseeeaes. tee 61
Lifeshistory ia Cormssesse Les sh es ee ee 63
parasites: 2.228 us dc8 Sekt ees ee ee 63-64
Aragallus lambert, food plant of Aphis medicaginis............--------------- 40
Cleonus quadrilineatis: 22 .22:52-— 2 eanee eee 37
Melanoplusispp--0o: 2). ee eae See eee 42
(Hous spae2 ses ss Je) ee 42
Opera obscura. 2222 Sea a ee oe ee 42
Porabacilius coloraduss:s 35 8 case eee 42
PTHOLAANCUTUA LS Ieee Boss Be eae 38
hymenoptérous gall thereon..s¢2_2<.25 1425) 222255722 41
Armadillidium vulgare, biological notes: 2/2922. 3-.22. 2. See ss 19-21
color differences between sexes...........-..---------- 19-20
copulation. |... 6.88200). ae FON. Ae 19
effect. of varying natural and field conditions........ 19
haunts: 223.5 eos ee ee 19
incubation, period iss: 5 sh. See ee ee eee 20
life history: stool 2k FBS s. ES SE ee 15-21
MOlteves os s:ce ish See ise rere eee ee se a ee 20-21
plant-feeding habits... 222562 222 eee Se eee 18-19
regeneration of parts: <.$.b.ces2. 2200 3s eee eee 21
TEMEGICS. - & <jsds c\owisnjserneimicls seit -elee ae err eto eee 21
scavenger habite: 22... 02 5. 3822 2 ere ee eee 19
sexual differences tevsr 2 os Sh ae as ee eee 19-20
Arsenate of lead against pecan cigar case-bearer. .............--------------- 86
Arsenic against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare. ..-.-------- an Ae ea Medi ee 17,18

Arsenicals against sowbug Metoponorthus pruinosus......-----------+++--+------ 22

INDEX. 89

Page
PEBCUICAS OGRIMBL HOW DPS ane aaetectaenealscte Seem cam AaldiSinn eee ae veRaaceiebse dar 22
Aschersonia aleyrodis, fungous enemy of Aleyrodes howardi.............-------- 70-71
§ LEO TOT SSP BOOSIE OES Teictoee SOs — HCE eae ee eae ee 68
Asopia costalis. (See Hypsopygia costalis.)
Aspidium, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............-.------------ 51
Astragalus mollissimus, (see also Loco, purple).
food plant of Aphiochxta pygmxa...........-.--------- 42
ADRIS MCCICAGUUISra os. Bae 2325 eee Sonat Oe 40
BRUCK USOUTCOIU Gee ne. esos eS 41
UmeSTOMNOLO Naseer a ee 38-39
Peqomya@ VpINts a3: sone haere SA eee ROG
TRUSTICUS LEMON = enol 2 ets eee = tenes ie 42
unknown leai-beetle-< 4.4.4. 25-525. 2s8.2% 41
Walshia amorpnel diz... f2k26 Gees eee 34-35
NOOPS MOOUKONeYTALS [ONIN QUIS! =o = 2 nen ees ses eee 40
Azalea, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis .........-.-.-.---.---------- 51
Back, E. A., paper, ‘‘The Woolly White-fly: A New Enemy of the Florida
Ormpge. (Aleyrodes howard: Qnamiance). 2203-2 -.ic.ese5ee.eneee-2 ee ast 65-71
Bacon eaten by Armadilidnium vulgare <2. 22-25 sce0e ses gese ets aodelee cee ens 17
Para emin Ser ea OM CUCM CDUL <seG saci 2 <2 5S nes Soin Sess nc acess ecings vaso 39
Bean, Metcalfe. (See Phaseolus retusus.)
‘*Raphael.’? (See Phaseolus wrightii.)
wild, 100d plantiol Apion colon-=.\..-.0.2<..-+--~- DEC eer) eae 30
Heans, damace by Pentatoma tigata’ in 1905..-....2..2....2s2--2252550--0-5-- 7-8
PREM. 1000, OL ATL CEUS [USCICUIQLUS ooo st cot ac oo tide sb ecco eases 64
RAY Diy ATINGGI GUT CUIGGTC. a. oon = cuisec ew tite te hoe es eee wc te ete s S16
ima food plamtob Alydiws eurinus ccs 2s 400s ooo shess es eoa cases 4]
Pentatomasayia. --.4---— ea ar eed Ae tee 2
Beetle of unknown species on Astragalus mollissimus.........-- Readiness tones 41
ects, food plants'ol Hamronotus militaris....22---..2.-25.200% 002 2 ee ote oak 4]
BUGArt00d) Plamu On munesi@ WOldia. f.i42) 2 25ebe ees 2k ce eck ooking 39
Begonia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................------------ 5]
Birceene niles OlelCiCalOntOn lg Glas amne = pee eames ote eats A seeps 11
‘‘Black fly,’”’ name given to Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis in Germany.....------- 44
hibernation in holes made by Arezcerus fasciculatus in cornstalks. 61-62
Boll weevil, host of Cerambycobius cushmani ................---------------- 63-64
EUTULOMLG UY LOMETTLALUS sas see nee a ree set 2 ae eee 64
Boophilus annulatus, eggs eaten by Armadillidium vulgare........-.-..-.------ 17
EP ONCELIVORLEOUES aes eee ee ee 22
Breagledienipy ATmagulidvuny VUlgAre..-..< <-02=.- chess yo eee sas eens sss sees 17
Bruchomor pha dorsata taken on loco weeds. ...........-..------- SOR as & Ses oh 41
Bruckus aureolius on loco weed (Astragalus) .-.-...22.20:-s.<<22-se2--se-seee 41
USOICIIES OMA OTUCCOAUITOUIUIONG-- 22. =. eos eee ee ie ee ree 4]
Budworm, pecan. (See Proteopteryx deludana.)
Bug, green tree. (See Nezara hilaris.)
Buhach. (See Pyrethrum.)
ermine against chinch bug.-2.................-.0seseeu- aut S Gate ema eete 14
ofa) sue ni Fo) Ree ee eee eee CTR rere: 1 rege ee 13-14
Pep pace, HOO plant Ob MH usesta NOtGtl = 2 wins once es en sida meen seh sone 39
Macao, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............-..----2-.0.-----: 51
Camarotes, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............----------- 51
Canteloupes, crushed overripe, food of Formica cinereorufibarbis.......-....--- 73

TOO Plalits Ol A DADS VORSUNT. 1555.01 do ps osx s Wortes's side esis <= 73-74

90 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Caragana arborescens, food plant of Aphis medicaginis.....-..-----.------------ 40
Carbon bisulphide against sowbugs in greenhouses and dwellings. ..........-. PAOD)
too expensive for use against ant Formica cinereorufibarbis . . 74
Cassia, food plant'of Aphis medicaginis: 22 572 ees. sae i eee eee 40
Catolaccus incerius, parasite of Apion decoloratwm=s-=-- 225-2. 225-022 2e2 eee 32
Grisththe tiie, RE RE 30
Cattleya, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis............-.------2------- 51
Cerambycobius cushmant, parasite of Aracerus fasciculatus...........-..------- 63-64
poll4weevilt.s).c22U 28 oe eee 63-64
GCeratonogonibrawen. armyrmecophilessssee reer oe a ee eee eee ee 27
Orumanssnalb tas: GSirito Mit Olea ae = ee 27
eincius, ‘biting habits Mdistribution Sete 22) eee ee eee 26
griseus, habits; Gistributionsss2 te! 220.0 o. as ee Oe ee AR
Guitipennis sbi tiga abo lts esses se sae eine ee Seer ee ee
larva, habits'and description.-:- 22.22.2202 24-08 sees
hippocastani; habitssscces ee es a ee ee 28
mutabilis reared from human excrement, distribution............- i
SAngUIsuga. soitincuhapiise Gis belt Omer eee ee 26
BPP ss MOLES. 2. Joan rarsok ee Geiss sk Bye re Solas Sere ee oats eae eee
speciilaris; habits: distributione. ces o-sy5- 2 os eee (eee ee Pk
SHAM Ga LOMA OR OMI, CUSTAOWUNON So scicsosaconssococe ose cagdecoos 26
stenammatis, association with Stenamma fulvum aquia......-..--- oF
HARV OMES, LOGY ONS CbISTAI OUUNOINE =~ soaeceossoosssscccdooebcesssosssu- 28
Unicolon olin) Dalits, dis try Ooms se aa ee 26
WGrUCOLON, PUPA sac st she ea ee ee eee a 5)
varipennis, biting habits, ‘distribution: 72:2 550225 2 0ea5654-e eee 26
webster’, Nabitaitocd socercec cee ise Che Bee ee eee eee 27
qheelend. wna biGssniis tril Obl OT eee peer e eres eee 28
Chaitophorus populicola on cottonwood, attendance by Formica cinereorufibarbis. 73
Chaleidid parasite of Apion. proclive.22h.o 2 te ee 31
Cherry laurel, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-......-------- dL
Chinaberry. (See Melia azedarach.)
Chinch bug; burning in)control.2.-22 2.4225. . eee eee eee eee ee 14
Chittenden, F. H., paper, ‘‘An Injurious North American Species of Apion,
with Notes on Related Forms” .................- 29-32
‘‘Tnsects Injurious to the Loco Weeds” .......--...- 33-42
Chrysopa carried away from aphis-infested cucurbit plants by Formica cine-
TEOTUP DAN O08 wa. 0: ate /atarsinelsctsain eee me een ee Ns eh ISOs ee ee ue
Citrus, food plants of Aleyrodes howardi....-.-.---- MC er ses 0
Cleonus quadrilineatus, injurious to loco eed sense ace conn Sie 37-38
Clover, bur, food plant of Aphis medicagiums-- ee se. oo ae 40
food plant of Agromyza.wnetwentms 22. Yo2t 4-22. see ee 41
Aphis medivcaginis ince soe ee Cee ee ee ee 40
hay worm. (See Hypsopygia costs: wy
Cocklebur, food plant of Baris transversa... 22-2522 2 200 2 eee ee 39
Hucesta notatecvasasc eed eee eee eee 39
Coffee bean. (See Cassia.)
weevil. (See Arecerus fasciculatus. )
Coleophora. caryxfoliellans 3 20.0hs sSetk ek ee = tee ee eee 79-86
adult; descriptiont 23222 Pao Sa ee ee eee 82
habiteise sega Ale Fe ee ee ere 83
bibliography 20)ee RO Sea eee ee 86

controlirecommendationsss-50052 eee ee eee ee 86

INDEX. 91

Page
Goltconhond caryeaneta, CeSCription'.« .. 2 s22-<-s2seb eee senses ene ee enee eee ene 82-83
UMUBEDUGION 4. ene e eee se a aes beet Spe reese es cane 80-81
SAME DISTOLY: o£ Me ns See eee oes thee oy eee 79-80
Ce oe Soc pao eeE Ree 42 CAS e. aap aS eee riers 82
PETTUS on oe ee ee eee hs Lane sla aoe 81
ELLIS: 3 See ae a ne NaS Pa 9 re 83-85
anijiKy, enaracter.--.-----...- en Se ee eee ee ee oe 81-82
MUMROCEO ULE 5588.8 os oa a's Woot eae, eee ee Sa 79
[ESI GSE Cal 8100) | ae ee ee ee eee 83
CEOS! 2 eee ee ee es eee 84
Tanyveltiessesdesenipiulon!.......2.-2-s222.ceces--e5e- es 83
ups seschlplioneeses S22). 2522. oa6e ee eee 83
pupae Marva MAbs os... -. 2... up see dees a se soe 85
TECONeec Ong aes lick... ule ache ee ee 80
BeAsOMaleMIOnOias eer es 3. 2. a 3. a Daas beeen ee oe 85-86
RLcrcherelid ON Jap pile sate sa eee ee ok oe Soc eae - seni ces ates Seek 79
rufoluteella, bibliographic reference. .:..........-. ee ee 86
—Coleophorarcanyejoliellan:..2 25-252. 2.252. 2e2..25 4s 79
Conchuela. (See Pentatoma ligata.)
PeuaeeroOod plant of Arecerus fascicwlatuss.<. 22.22 20.4.2 8-2+2 pote e en +2 awe 61-63
LAICeS (ANT OLULO ae eee ee ee ee Ue ere hee 28 eee 39
JEU OY CONIC Rey te BOG OE Gt ee OIA Ie 8
Cornus sp. (See Dogwood.)
Cotton aphis. (See Aphis gossypii.)
bolls, dry, decayed, food of Arecerus fasciculatus.............--------- 64
boll weevil. (See Boll weevil.)
damage by Pentatoma ligata in Texas in 1905................-.-.-.--- 6
: previous to 1905_...22- 22.2222 oe) 0.
1000 Plawi Ore pnis MeMCAginis. =< <=... 22222522402. dee oe pe ee 40
aN TEIN a) S15 2S a ee gs 40
SET IRE RCL Me tee eee OSE Sr Oe Da ene hPa eee 39
(PET OLO TORINO QU een he! Se SP eS 2a ek eee j
mury by Armadilliiviny Qulgare. 2-222 .-= 5.2 dn. ac aeeeee eens -k sey ees 16
leaves fed upon by Metoponorthus pruinosus......-.-------.-----------
TOU LO UUM Se eee nek ee ESS ia. Ss Sr er 21
Cottonwood, food plant of Chaitophorus populicola...........-.-.-.-.-+-+----- 7
Cowpea, food plant of Alydus eurinus.......-......-.-.-- Eo ae gc eee eee 41
ADiis Medio guiis te cme ee het ee een See ee 40
INCZOT OR TULLCUPUS 5p Paces a Oe Fee eee Sn Tepe ces 8
Cracca virginiana, food plant of Apion segnipes.....-........-.-.-------+----- 31
Bruchus obsoletit.. 2357 pce ceee eee 46 aoe 41
Crinums, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............-.------------- 51
Crotons, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis ..............--.--+--- 43, 44-45, 51
Cuero Of Pentatoniid DUS. 5... -6-- o2..= cee eerannew eee eas Qee ss wn 0 11
Cueumbers, injury by Armadillidium vulgare........2..-22-2--02-- eee eee 16
Cieureits, 1000 plants of Aphisgossypit......... ---- doce sae nenwsnsesese eens 73
River, LOcntIGn On IAIsets. o.oo... 5... a gees ae heme eb 24-25
MEET LLU OCA UNO EN ODM VED ooo oo 5 ian Cid x, ay SS SR ie Ss 5) eai meine s i= 24-25
Dahlias, food plants of Heliothrips hemor rhoidalis. Be eee eee dl
Dasycoris NOUS TA ONNON AOCONWRROSEY = a 2 <a cm ye Semin c nce nee os aon eels 4]
Date palm, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-....-.--------++-- 51

pass, injury by Armadillidium vulgare........0.2.-..---22-2----- +220 16

92 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX,

Dettocephalus flexulosus taken on loco weeds... 2223-2 -- aoe. ee ae eee
Dendrobium, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..............----------
Desmodium. (See Meibomia. )
Disease transmission possible by sowbugs:-.- +. 022 28--- 9-2 -e ee 4 ee
Dogwood, doubtful food plant of Coleophora caryxfoliella..............-------
food plantiol Apwrmherculenim= ss: 2.042227 eee nee ee
Eciton cecum, nests containing larvee and puparia of Ceratopogon brumalis. .
Eel-worms. (See Nematodes.)
Eucharis, food plants of Heliothrips hxemorrhoidalis.............-.---------+--
Hurytoma tylodermatis, parasite of Apion segnipes.....-...-.-.---------------
SATE CET ILS Vf ISCUCUULCLELIS anna ee ee
bollsweevile 252i ce oo. tet eee a ee
Ti HOdEL May OUCOLCRIN see ee ee eee
Hiucesta notaia on loco weed, eeneraltaccount=-42) 5-42 ee- = aoe eee eee
Excrement, human, Ceratopogon griseus roared: jierenon! nes Oe Ct es et ey ae ae
mutabilis reared therefrom......--..--------
Hucesta notata reared thereirom...-- .2--->--. +222 ese
False-indigo gall-moth. (See Walshia amor phella.)
Farm practices of little avail against conchuela in western Texas. ..........---
Ferns: food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis....-.-2-- 2.2 --2+-2-+-+822s2ee
Frens, food plants oi Helothrips hemorrhowdalis. 2% 2. tome e es = se oe
Fire. (See Burning.)
Mlonmeateni by Anmnadulsdvum will g Oneass esse eee eee ee ee ee eee
Flowers, cultivated, injury by Armadillidium vulgare...........-------------
Flower seed subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare...........-----------
Horace plants, angury by Apion. grisewm..-:.c- se. - woe es = oe eee
IRIOTINVICG CUNET COPUPLOONO TSE ota oes ee eae Oso ae oe ois Seen eee ee ee eee
attendame exon aio biG esiey ere eee eee
imjumous habits: .cc)2. sacle oe cies ee tee eee ree
INtrOMUCHON A Seneca oe cece ce nen eee eee eee
potassium cyanide as remedy, experiments. ......-.---
Hruits) dried, food of Araecerus fascieulatus. 2242252 -- 32s oe eee eee
Fuchsia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-.------:-----------
Fumigation against woolly white-fly.........-...--..---- es a ed ee a a
experiments against greenhouse thrips.........-.-.--.---.--------
of peach trees against conchuela and related pests........---------
treatments recommended against greenhouse thrips........-------
Fungous growths, food of Armadillidium vulgare..........--.-.---------------
Fungus gnats. (See Mycetophilide.)
erowing on honeydew excreted by Aleyrodes howardi.......----------
Fungus, red. (See Aschersonia aleyrodis.)
yellow white-fly. (See Aschersonia flavocitrina.)
Gall; hymenopterous, on Aragallus lambertiss 2.20 setae oe = ote ae = oer
moth, false-indigo. (See Walshia amor phella.)
Garden vegetables, damage by Pentatoma ligata in 1905..........------------
protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests... .
Geocoris' griseus taken on loco weeds: =.) i. soe <1-is ere erate eee ere
Glycyrrhiza lepidota, food plant of Aphis medicagints......-..-.--------+--++-+--
Gnats, biting. (See Ceratopogon spp.)
fungus. (See Mycetophilide.)
Goat’s rue. (See Cracca virginiana.)
Grain bug. (See Pentatoma sayi.)
stored; ‘food ‘of: Pyralisfariialis 202 ee eee eee ere

38-39

11-12

40

INDEX. 93

Page.

Grape, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.............-.------+--+--+++-- 51

(grapes, Gamage: by Pentatoma ligata in 1905-220. . 2-5... . 22 ete eee eee sone ¥(

protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests...........-.---- 14

Grasses, probable food plants of Philenus bilineatus.......-.-.-.........------ 41

iGiissseaten by Annadildium vulgare... oneness see kee ew ccc eee ee ens 18-19

Grasshoppers and other Orthoptera on loco weed, Aragallus lamberli........-.-. 42

Greenhouses, infestation by Sciara inconstans...........------------+202--2-es 36-37
Guava, food: plant.of Aleyrodes howard: ......<-s<-<. 20+ o2-0---226---2- en esecn 7

Gymnosoma fuliginosa, parasite of Pentatoma ligata.....-......-.----+---+----- La,

Hadronema militaris on Amaranthus and beets.....--.--..-.----------------- 41

takenvonulbeo weeds: /22/so7 <2 sos Sos esc 22 aes eee 41

Hand picking against conchuela, grain-bug, and related pests .-...........---- 13, 14

niverelover, 100d Of PyTalis fOminauiss..-<o- coca al oi See oe dagoen los vee oth ar eos 40

Heliothrips adonidum, bibliographic reference. .........-.-.-.-----+--+----+--- 58

RETAONT OPAQUE a 28 nt gO NS hate 2 Rast ng Woe 2 oe eevee nie A Sse 43-60

adultideserrpulon 5 2% test Skt. 2. et cate et EE 46-A7

apits. seen BEL ees ee EP E 48-49

Dip liganaphiy 2. sesso soe eects k ws a Sfee oe SEs 58-60

CoOmtroleeanintie rallies shes sane ey) ot si oeye SEI reese yee 52-58

MAUI ete sets, Rei Re ee eyo ae cs ene 52

GESETIPWOR te tele sec h aoe tee es Pere eit loie2 eae 46-48

Cistii bation ss. fee tess cate ee eee tt eee 45-46

eho descripuOna: to 502. Soe ose east P tees 47

TOOWplamise A oye a0. Be see ke dic Loe ae 51

CENGTAMOUS. 2 pele cone sn bi Acme Lie uaets Soe 52

DIS ene oe ee hat RO eee ee td eee oe Se 48-51

IIS CORY 5 ae oe ae ee et re a Pee as er ee 43-44

In inven ahure and extente-eas: ocees= sae cet sess 44-45

rOeilinyacal PYCh (0G) Sey, a Se Oe ee es I ee et 43

Par yee HEIDE teen 2 Sis ated tn I A eld Re ee 49-50

larva, first stage, description......:.-<:2-.-.22-6..% 47

second stage, description................--.-- 47

UTP OTe y Cle Tes Asi st oo NOEs by ke 51

HigtOny Ues Seer we eet ote se dee te ead 51-52

TONPOVIlY (2 -ece eee sees s eA Sam eee 51

MALUTALCREMUCH a.c uc ae es chaos ones ones SOS 52

nymph, full-grown, or pupa, description. ........-. 48

young, or prepupa, description...........-. 47-48

ODIO Me Rae Se ms ee te a Pe Bee eee eee 45

preplipa; description. 7 soc thee se ee ee 47-48

habits ced os os eee. vee ee oe a ee 50

pupa; description... 2.222. veceee ne eee eee 48

IWSD IS ots hao ore cre ee oe er en ees 51

TECOLUA HP ROCEMU. oe tu or Ce we ee eee eee Ad

remedies, experiments...) J252 52 5.< ce sos Sete e es 52-57

SUMINAN Ye ~ ss4 5 ot ee ere 57

MECOMMENGE «| -)2 elns eee leeee B ae es 57-58

Hickory, food plant of Coleophora caryxfoliella.............-..-..---------- 79, 80, 81

Hippodamia convergens carried away from aphis-infested plants by Formica
CUILET CONMPLOATURS ahr Fos aio ee ae ee oes) ate he 74
enemy of Aphis medicaginis.............--..+------- 40

Honeysuckle, food of Armadiliidium vulgare-.--.--.---.-----.--+++--------+-- 18-19

94 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Hopperdozer for use against conchuela and grain-bug.....---.-.------------- 12-13
Horsechestnut. (See Asculus hippocastanum. )
Hosackia glabra. (See Lotus glabra.)
Hothouse vegetables, injury by Armadillidium vulgare........--------------- 16
Hydrocyanic-acid gas against greenhouse thrips.....-....---.------------+-+--- 56, 58
Hypsopygia costalis breeding im-clover Naya 2245. 22 eis sae er ee eee 40
Indigo, false. (See Amorpha Jruticosa.)
Insects injurious to loco weeds. =< <5 .c0nn ee aaa sae e Pere aaa eee 33-42
Jarring against conchuela and related pests. 22. -2..-222- 25222 == 2-0-2 === == ee 14
Kerosene against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare........--------------------- 18
emulsion against conchuela, grain-bug, and related pests.........-.-- 13, 14
ereenhouse thripst sess. ae 2 noe eee See 58
sowbug Armadillidium vulgare......-...---------- 18
Kola, food plant of Heltiothrips hemorrhoidalis..2--.-.2----5-2-25- - 222s ee 51
Ladybird, convergent. (See Hippodamia convergens.)
Lxlaps macropilis, enemy of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.......--.-----------+-- 52
Lelia, food, plant of Hehothrips hemorrhoidalis..222 52. --2-=-- 222-5 =.= oe oe 51
Laurel, cherry. (See Cherry laurel.)
Laurestina, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........-..-------------- 51
Lefortia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.......---------------------- 51
Legume, wild, climbing, food plant of Apion patruele.....---.---------------- 31
Lettuce subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare..........--------------- 16
Liliaceous plants, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis......-------------- 51
Lime-sulphur mixture against pecan cigar case-bearer ........--------------- 86

Loco fly, yellow. (See Tritoxa incurva.)
purple (see also Astragalus mollissimus).
food plant. of Scare anconstans). 2 452 tt atokie oer eee 36
root-maggot. (See Pegomya lupini.)
weeds (see also Astragalus molissimus and Aragallus lamberti).
insect enemies! 0: ts SoS ae Beare Bee oe foe eee er ee 33-42
white. (See Aragallus lamberti.)
weevil, four-lined. (See Cleonus quadrilineatus. )
woolly. (See Loco, purple, and Astragalus mollissimus.)

Nocust, food) plant of Apion nigrum 22s cscs Se eee = ete tele eee 31
London purple against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare..-..-----------+------ Lely
Lotus glabra) iood ‘plant. of Apion embricotle 2 sues ste. cen ape eee sn er eee 31
Tpinus alba, food plant, of Pegomya,lupinn. 222.62. 22-2 aeeee oe 36
arborea, food plant of A pion prochive..-225-.2----=-+-2+==-2-068 maar 31
Pegomya Vuipinic. -o.. tan aoa Sa eee eee 36

Walsiia amorprella = sssseacaee eee ee Seer 30

Lycena acmon. (See Rusticus acmon.)
Mangifera indica. (See Mango.)

Mango, food plant of Aleynodes howardi.- = 2 osc. scesae = l= = = = ae eee eee 70

Fleliothrinsihemorrhotdalis..2-- .62 2c 26- ee eee ee 44, 51

Manure, cow, Ceratopogon specularis reared therefrom.......-.---------------- 27

horse, Ceratopogon specularis reared therefrom........-.-------------- 27

Maples, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis......-----------+-+---++-+-++-+-- 51

Marcintacia, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.........---------------- 51
Marsh, H. O., paper, ‘‘ Notes on a Colorado Ant (Formica cinereorufibarbis Forel)” 73-78

Meal snout-moth. (See Pyralis farinalis.)
Meibomia; food plant of Apion 2n¢ipennes: 22-53-62. ss teeeeen- eee eee By
grandiflora, food plant of Apion decoloratum...-.....-------------- 31

marylandica, food plant of Apion turbulentum......-.-.------------ 31

INDEX. 95

Page.
Meibomia paniculata, food plant of Apion decoloratum........---------------- 3L
Melonopliis spp. Ol Aragallislampertt <8 asa nb i sawn tee en nee eee 42
Melia azedarach, food plant of Arzcerus fasciculatus.......-..--------+------+++ 63-64
Melilotus italica, food plant of Aphis medicaginis......-.-.-------------------- 40
Melon aphis. (See Aphis gossypii.)
tencuiige. 1000 plant of Pentatoma heatan.o222cn aco <n <0 de on ane avis 8
Metoponorthus pruinosus, life history and habits, notes...-. - CaS Res a Re ee 22
Midge, fickle. (See Sciara inconstans.)
Milo maize, damage by Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi in 1905....-.-.--.-.------ 5-6
food plantiol Pentatoma sais «35-6 5-2 see ee oe ee ee eases 2
protection from attacks of conchuela and related pests.......--..-- 14
Morrill, A. W., paper, ‘‘The Mexican Conchuela in Western Texas in 1905
RE ETEILO TNO OCS DAV. ice oe Sete ee eo eine secre ne apo Se cial Sane eee 1-14
Mushrooms, injury by Armadillidvum vulgare... ..2 ..- 2-2 2p -o2-k oo senses 16
Mustard subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare........-.-..-.----------- 16
Marcetopiilids: hapits OL ianMlyee. on oe oe a eases ee slag ses cee ce es 36
Sere Laem OM TOCOMWERUS.c aoe hac iss: See ae Sau cose sitiemee ae eisewie 41
Nematodes, confusion of larvee of Sciara inconstans therewith...........------ aii
Nezara hilaris, damage to cowpea vines and tomatoes..........-..-...--------- 8
Wico-fume liquid against preenhouse thrips.....:.. 22. 2-...--2-2-2-220--J.550 55
paper acaimat greenhouse. thrips s<.2. 2.22. <5252.-5¢--22s%-22 S22 os" 52-53
Nicotine liquids for spraying against greenhouse thrips................---.--- 57-58
papers for fumigation against greenhouse thrips..............---.---- 57
Sesireaiecicl sp laTG OE PIACLALONLO BOY ls cae a coe os) cia clove sc1sec Mets oekiae somes 2
Ccacta furens, biting habits, distribution..............-...-..--- Rae Ae 28
Grannies. OncAragailus lambert... 203s 22 ade2 aoe 2 22 ek eek = Te oe 42
Onion fly, black. (See Tritoxa flexa.)
fOOdmO LAND Ole HUPEstAMOlAli)s so nem ns chic ae a8 5,2 © sz) wees) a oe ee 39
LET OL OM LOL SED SN ale a PRS Wane A Te Sed = eM 38-39
Opera obscuna on: Aragallus lamben pi. «ana coc aio wae owns awinnld's So eae ee aoe ose 42
Orange, Aleyrodes howardi a new enemy in Florida ............-.------------- 65-71
Weave orange, food plant.of Bugesta notdta--... 2-24. ..02. 2202. i 2, see eek cee 39
Oxalis, food plant of Aiphismedicagimis.<< 2. S20. vos oe 2k So lb eke cee a Jee 40
Palmetto, injury by Armedithduimn vulgore:.2ocs02 00.20 ease. 2k sc clesan ae 16
Palms, food plants of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis..........-.-.---------+---+--++ 51
Pancratium, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................-------+-- 51
Parabactilus coloradus on Aragallus lamberti.........-2.-0-.---2+-+-2ceeecseenne 42
Paraleyrodes persexe.......2..0200000ceeeeee esses A Pe nt are ere 65
Paris green against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare. .........-.------------ 17, 18, 21
and lime against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare ..........-------- 18
Peaches, damage by Pentatoma ligata in 1905. .......-....-...-------------- 6-7
protection against attacks of conchuela and related pests... -....--- 14
Reas.damage.by Pentatoma ligata in 1905 . . 2... .2.<0n05 55. wesc 2s ath ences 7-8
LOO PIakib OL AGTOMMUEA PNCWENINE a4 = 32 aos. n doce See eee eee 41
POOR a QOS S. 2 <4. Be 26 esos ae ee ae ele See 7-8
C11) een RG mee Si te Seed A Ly) eee ones 2
IAL Dy Anmadiladiun Vulgare .u-2 2-2 -ses eee ade Snow ane sec esene eave 16
Pecan budworn. (See Proteopteryx deludana.)
cigar case-bearer. (See Coleophora caryxfoliella.)
food plant'of Coleophora carysfoliella......- 2.0 -2222.2-----2-22--2--- 79-86
Pediculoides, enemy of Arxcerus fasciculatus...............----------------- 64
Pegomya lupini injurious to loco weed, general account................--.... 35-36

Pellea hastata, food of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis................--2---------- 51

96 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page

Peppers, food plants’of Pentatoma ligatat. & 22-2 sce see een eee eee eee 8

Persea gratissima, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis ......--.----------- 51

Persimmon Psylla. (See Psylla, persimmon.)

Pentatoma ligata ss SAS es Dee Gee eee oe een ee oa ee ee 1-14
an associated speeles is 20k. ne = eee ee oo ee ee 2
and P. sayi, remedies when crops other than alfalfa are at-

[el (210 Lee rand a a GRE RB HERES aha etnias Resa dh Gb s 14

control methods: soc. 3 Soke oe ee ee ee 11-14

damage totcrops im 1905-1504. LUE Le See Se eee 3-8

Previeusito’ L905 Lo yee shee aie tee eee 2-3

ene parasites (2 ttcend Tepae ed tens Se ieee freee near aces 9-10

food! plantetOat est awe Peak Vee he SS yon ae oe rae 3-8

host’ of Telenomas ashmeadt 9) s. 92). 5a: eee ae 10

IM(TOUMCTLOM A 2 sr sre EE See 8 ee Ser engi camer 1

natural: emenmmeg 52a ee Wee veto WN) 5 ve Del ees Aur eee 9-11

predaceouls enemies: {iioece tetas 2 Boek Ree epee 11

preventive and protective measures. ...-.-........--------- 13-14

seasonalthistoryia nse see ee NE oe ee Oe ie ere eee 8-9

tachimidparasitess 3222s O26. ee 22 Soe BE ee eee 11

sayi, association with raen aera ligata in injury to crops. ..-.---.-- 2

control measunesirrs yo so so eo eee See tee 12-14

damacestolalitaliayimelo05 2 aoa eee ease aera (eater 3-5

Previous ito LOO isso AAS le os Nes Se a 3

milosmaize dm L005 2. see a eee oe One eee 6

seasonal history). 2st.2< 2 ~ <ee ul te Bee See acer ee 8-9

Phalenopsis, food plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis ........---.---------+-+- 51
Phaseolus pauciflora. (See Strophostyles pauciflora.)

polystachyus (perennis), food plant of Apion griseum....------------ 29

renusus: 100d plant of Apiongriscum os. noes osetia = ite ie cee 29

wright, tood-plant of Apion griseum.- 22g 2s 8 a= 222 ae ae ae oie 29

Philenus bilineatus taken'on loco weeds): 53452225 3ahs #22 eae. aoe 41

Phiox, food plant of Hehothrips hemorrhoidalis 222 sos 2: eee ee eee 51

Pierce, W. Dwight, paper, ‘‘ Notes on the Economic Importance of Sowbugs”.. 14-22
‘““Pill-bug.”’ (See Armadillidium vulgare.)

Pink food: plant of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis:2922 32 42)oous ee ad eee 51
Plant-lice. (See Aphides.)
Porcellio levis, life history and habits, notes.. ..-...----.5---+---+-++-++<++--: 21-22
TONNE ATG: 5.5 sash eres reese aes velo eet ee ka age 22
Potassium cyanide solution against Formica cinereorufibarbis ......----------- 74-78
Potatoes! eaten by, Avmadillidnumiauloanese sae ea ay y= ee AW
Potted plants subject to attacks by Armadillidium vulgare. ....-.------------ 16
Pratt, F. C., paper, ‘‘Notes on ‘Punkies’ (Ceratopogon spp.)” . ...---------.-- 23-28
Prionocyphon, discoideus: locationyot larvae... Jas. -6e asses. 4 - ane se ee aes 24-25
Prodenia ornithogauy «8 ochei-o2 tos eee See ee ei ae ele 17
Proieopteryx deludana, spraying therefor will destroy pecan cigar case-bearer.. . 86
Prunus americana, doubtful food plant of Coleophora rufoluteella (caryxfoliella).. 80,81
Psylla. persimmons ...)5- Stic fe ses Soe ceo eo met nia rete eae eee air ie ete 68
‘“Punkies.’’ (See Ceratopogon spp.)
Pyralis farinalis on Astragalus mollissimvus year Hoe o-oo = eae re atte ela 40
Pyrethrum against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare... ...----.--------2+eeeee- 17, 18
fumigation therewith against conchuela on peach trees... ...---- 14
Radishes eaten by Armadillidium,vulganei ny in2 2s sate ae ara sees east 16, 17

Rain, factor in control of Heliothrips hemorrhoidalts .......-.--22--------7---5- 52

INDEX. 97

Page.
Reduviolus ferus, carried away from aphis-infested cucurbit plants by Formica
RIICREOTU DOR UIS a Fan tte soe BE iti ee onic cin o's «Rein naw ae sixlen se Se 74
Regeneration of parts in Armadillidium vulgare. .....-.--.------------------ PALL
Repellents against sowbug Armadillidium vulgare .........-.-.-----+-------- 18
Rhyssalus trilineatus, parasite of Colephora caryxfoliella.............---------- 80
Robunia viscosa, food plant of Aphis medicaginis .. .-.--2.2.--.------+-s..---- 40
Root fly, spotted. (See Huxesta notata.)
maggot, loco. (See Pegomya lupini.)
ose qiMiuny DY ATMUGUMdIWM VUlGOre. 22 = tees seca cess sense de nen ees voce 16
leaf insecticide, fumigation against greenhouse thrips.........-..-..--- 5D
spraying against greenhouse thrips. .............-..--- 56
Russell. H. M., paper, ‘‘The Greenhouse Thrips (J//eliothrips hxemorrhoidalis
Boucher. ae ee. Rae so hae ee 43-60
“The Pecan Cigar Case-bearer (Coleophora caryxfoliella
COs cat eae a Sey gether OR ON oe 79-86
Rushes acmon on Astragalus mollissumis. ....-- =. +2 22--- +++ seen ce s+ snes cee 42
Sciara inconstans injurious to purple loco, general account... ....-.--...... 36-37
wercenine tomatoes apainst conchuela -... 22-22-26 2222s cece ee ee vee 14

Sheepberry. (See Viburnwm lentago.)
Snout-moth, meal. (See Pyralis farinalis.)

Soapsuds against ereenhouse thrips: .. =... 2-2... 2..2s.-. ese ee cece se eees 43
Bolum, 100d plant of Mutesta noltata 2.6. o0 0s 8 one oe ed lec onde ewe eseee es 39
SOW DUPE, CCONOMIC IMPOTtIANGG =. . 2545.02 22 eee eco es doesn ceedoendeecedecs 15-22
COUCIDSIONS ss 207s.ce cose e ee oe es toes eee 22
MENG MOr an, Md OOM TEMeCQNCS. 7 £50 25.255. ccoees eres Sets sie oh beets. 22
Dorayinpvarainnt woolly white-fly 2.02. ..2. 2522202. 260cseeecsseccecesn see 7
greenhouse thrips, experiments...........................- 56-57
treatment recommended ...............-. 58
Squash, food plant of Pentatoma ligata..... 2... 2ecc occu eee ces ee sees ee ee eee 8
Stenamma fulvum aquia, nest containing Ceratopogon stenammatis............ 2
Sfiphrosoma atrata taken on loco weeds..........-...---.0----0---e00e-eeee 41
Stored products, dry vegetable, food of Arecerus fasciculatus.............-.- 6¢
Strophostyles pauciflora, food plant of Apion fraternwm (=griseum)...........- 30
Sugar, food of Armadiulidiwum vulgare: 2.22. cons oo. cc ee ee he cee oe ewe ee eo ok 7
Sumac. 400d. plant Ob Wumeste NoMa. oo) Peck. eee ee acne s cee cee 3s
Syrphid larve preyed upon by Formica cinereorufibarbis...............--. r

Telenomus ashmeadi, parasite of Pentatoma ligata and P. sayi
Tephrosia virginiana, (See Cracca virginiana.)
Tersesthes torrens, biting habits, distribution 28
Thrips adonidum. (See Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis. )

greenhouse. See Heliothrips hemorrhoidalis.)
Tick, cattle. (See Boophilus annulatus.)

eggs eaten by Armadillidium vulgare........2....22.02 00 ce ee ee en eeecceee 7
MCKOPONOTUCLE PrUNnOsUs. 2 eka eo oe aa tl. ta eee 22
PROVEELO LPVIBS 55.2. nae Sete ee ee a A meas aie Oe 22

trefoil, common. (See Meibomia [Desmodium].)
Loads, @nemies Of pentatomid bugs-..........--2...b.22 cence we aceccanceceuee 11
Tobacco stems, fumigation therewith against conchuela on peach trees... -- 14
Tomatoes. damage by Armadillidiwm vulgare.................----.2----+----- 16
IVERMECTIN 4 «oc, -, 23 eee ie BODE Vio sac Ge oe 8
mentatoma figata In'1905. 2 oe pe tee sc caso decce 7-8
Bereenmep apemst conchuela. .... 6. oi cece ccc sees steps essen 14

Tritoxa flexa, habits, comparison with those of Tritoxa incurva

98 MISCELLANEOUS RESULTS OF WORK OF BUREAU—IX.

Page
Trtoxa fleva.on Onions! 27. 3)jastotas teen eek ees eas ee ee eee 39
incurva on Aragallus lamberti, general account..............--.....--- 38
Tucker, E. S., paper, ‘‘New Breeding Records of the Coffee-bean Weevil (Are-
cerus fasciculatus De Geer) 22.5.5 -acckn 3 a ee eee 61-64
Tyloderma foveolatum, host of Hurytoma tylodermatis...........----.---------- aL
Verbena, food! plant of Heliothripsihemorrhoidalis,. 2 ese. soe re ee 51
Viburnum acerifolium, food plant of Apion herculanum............------------ 32
food plants of Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis: -2-tese4522 = seen eee 51
lentago, food plant/ot Apion herculanume. 9-42 eee ae ee 32
Vines, food plants of Helothrips hamorrhoidalis: 2) o.- eee oa eee 51
Walnut, food), plant of Coleophonacaryefoltella... 3.2 ees. ee ee ee ee 81
Walshia amor phella, injurious to loco weed, general account .......-.--------- 34-35
Water spray against creenhouse thripssec)so05 2: -- eee eee ee eee 57, 58
Weather conditions, effect on sowbug Armadillidium vulgare.....------------- 19
Weeds ood .otmArmadiiianinwlgane =p eee ee eee eee 18
W -evil, coffee-bean. (See Arecerus fasciculatus.)
Wheat, food ‘plantiol Pentatoma.sayt. 22.0. 52 eek oe eae ee 2

White-fly, citrus. (See Aleyrodes citrt.)
spotted-wing. (See Aleyrodes nubifera.)
woolly. (See Aleyrodes howardi.)
Wricea, dood plant. olPentatoma ligaia.. 3-22 aoe eee eee ee i ee 8

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY-—BULLETIN NO. 65.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau

THE TOBACCO. THRIPS,

A NEW AND DESTRUCTIVE ENEMY OF
~SHADE-GROWN TOBACCO.

BY ©

W. A. HOOKER,
Special Field Agent.

Issunp Aprit 19, 1907.

‘ : Tee
x Hoy rigy of =
Wins

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICR.
1907.

Bite es Ae ‘morn sar

hoe wee BURHAY OF -RNTOMOLOGY. Jee
Ta,’ @, Hoekuy: Entomologist and Chief of. Bureau.
6 LL. Marrart, Entomologist and. Acting Chief in absence of |
A eRe ONE LMR. S. Cuirton, ae Pee ae a
: oY Ka ; x0 { 1 sf 45 Jot ‘ is
BP at ‘OurrENDEN, 3 in charge Ne ieee experiments. Siti
OAS D~D. Hopkins, ine charge of forest insect investigations.
wW. D. ay in charge of cotton voll weevil Sei bip dead Sao

44 ees 48: ¥. PHILLIPS, pene in charge. of Goines. ’ :
ae De M. Rogers, ‘in charge of gipsy and brown-tail moe work. :
Yee eh A Ws MorriL1, engaged in white fly investigations, — ;
“B.S. Gi Trrus, in charge of gipsy moth laborator Ye
OR bs GILLISS, engaged in silk investigations. -

RR. P. Currm,- assistant in charge of. editorial work.
MABEL GRE Con librarian. 4

Drow oePARTMENT: OF AGRICULTURE,
* BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY--BULLETIN NO. 65.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau

THE TOBACCO THRIPS,
A NEW AND DESTRUCTIVE ENEMY OF
SHADE-GROWN TOBACCO.

BY

W. A. HOOKER,
Special Field Agent.

IssuED Aprit 19, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

EO ORG

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U.S. DeparrMEeNtT OF AGRICULTURE,
Bureau or Enromo.uoey,
Washington, D. C., January 31, 1907.
Str: I have the honor to transmit herewith a manuscript by
Mr. W. A. Hooker, special field agent in this Bureau, on the tobacco
thrips, an insect which has, during the last two or three years,
caused great damage to shade-grown tobacco in Florida, Texas, and
Georgia. This paper contains a general account of this thrips, and
gives recommendations for applying remedial measures, and I rec-
ommend its publication as Bulletin No. 65 of the Bureau of Ento-
mology.
Respectfully,
L. O. Howarp,
Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
Hon. James WILson,
Secretary of Agriculture.

CONSENS.

RO ONUNGU] OMe ee ee es en MeN ie! ot i ee Se
PATS {ICD ENG ace Ss a a se ga
MRL r aN GaexCentsOF TD pl ya = Soe = ee ee es Se ee
OEM mAs DUG ON es 8 ae eee — eee Ut een ee es
WWESGHIDtIOM === 22 = oe TE ea EA Le SS en AR eee ee ee es Re
BT rh e3 CIC eae ee ae = ree Oe ee ee En Ses ee
iWhe.ege ==). 23 Se ee ee ae ee Hes ae he eee Crs = 5 nae
SUIS JIA UGS Ses eB aE a ee ee ee ee SP) 2 Seta
Mhesyounsnymphor prepupade- et geal) oe, AR
The full-grown nymph or pupa__________-_~- es oe ee ee
eet) eee ee ee Cee ne ie ie Pe a SN ee
CET lt opera ee eee pam sy bee es Ee eel a ee ee
ANI omen een ee ee ee = 2 ae ee '< EASE
UN RS a a ae a ee
TESOVENG A [OEEN 0 SAS a ES ee ee
MENTS E Yin vamme oe PRE RE ie ae es Fe
ANT OU Se Chie eG UC vere beeen we ln ee Ss ee
TEADWSS GAN ea EN a a a SE ee ee ee eee ee eee
EM existed bly hime ee oh Pe Oe ee Pe en eth ee
Other thrips that may be mistaken for the tobacco thrips______ o, ee
[os EEUU ECO tg OS en SS a
LANG Wa Se eS Se Sa ee ee ey 2
TIS CCE a eee Beton Pema Ae ee BN ete Se ok A Ns
LRSCRYOA EY WUE TM eS a es eee 2
(Oto tao eee | Mansi aya (0 ih Pel aes ee ee ee eee
INC CULG LO Cee ers een ae wren ee ayers newb! Fae ST 8 oe Sioa
HeEbeStrcred NENG. =e eee Oe ee BSN
How tovmake kerosene: emulSion== =~ = 2S) ea ee
Wihento applysthe emiulsion_—_ > --- 2 -_=- =~ eee a ae sees
HOwatOnusentne CMmuUulSiOn: ==. 2.8.22 a ee SS ee
QMOSTE Gk Gea hove, Se eae Re ee ae eee eee es eae) ee
Sina alikesy hil C010) ese a ee Loe 2 ES
[OY UREN OG Wes SS i re ee Se eee eee
Summary cote rECOMMENGALONS: = =.= 2s 2 ee
Chi Ti toial <2 ae ee ee a ee Ae ey ee
er UCT Gee en = ee ee Be 2 Se ae Roe Ae, = ae he eee
ithe tobacco-thrips. in 1905—6_.__ _-_-...--= Se ae eo
BYirectsof the sprays. ..--_-.-_____- Be lee
WMG exe 5 a oe SON = oe ee ie age FE ae =e *

TELUS PVA ONS:

PLATES.

page.
PLATE I. Fig. 1.—Slat-shade field, showing Iron cowpeas as grown be-
tween tobacco crops. Fig. 2.—Leaf of tobacco, showing
“white veins,’ caused by the tobacco thrips (Huthrips nico-
ClO) le Se ee 2 ee ae ee en ee 6
Il. Fig. 1.—Slat-shade tobacco field, showing seed bed. Fig. 2.—
Cheesecloth-shade tobacco field, showing seed bed____~_______ 16
TEXT FIGURES.
Iie. 1. The tobacco thrips (Huthrips nicotiane) ; adult__-_-*---___-__== 8

2. Diagram showing total monthly precipitation at Tallahassee, Fla.,

during April, May, June, and July, 1900-1906, to illustrate rela-
tion of rainfall to amount of injury by the tobacco thrips__-__~ 15

4 \

THE TOBACCO THRIPS, A NEW AND DESTRUCTIVE ENEMY OF
SHADE-GROWN TOBACCO, ¢

(Buthrips nicotianae Winds. )

INTRODUCTION.

In accordance with the authorization of the Secretary of Agricul-
ture and the instructions of Dr. L. O. Howard, the writer left Wash-
ington, D. C., April 14, 1905, to investigate certain injury to shade
tobacco at Quincy, Fla. He arrived at Quincy April 16 and spent
the following two months in the work. Having reached what seemed
to be a satisfactory result, he left there on June 16. June 27 was
spent at Palestine, Tex., and June 28 and 29 at Nacogdoches, Tex., in
examination of tobacco fields. At Quincy the writer was associated
with Mr. W. W. Cobey, tobacco-breeding expert of the Bureau of
Plant Industry, from whom valuable advice and suggestions were
received. The writer again visited Quincy in October, 1905, and spent
two weeks in a further examination. A continuation of the work was
planned for 1906, but could not be carried out, although a visit was
made at Quincy in November to determine the results obtained
where remedial measures had been employed.

HISTORY.

The first report of thrips injuring tobacco in this country, so far as
the writer is aware, was made by Dr. F. H. Chittenden in 1904,° the
species concerned being considered as Euthrips tritici Fitch. As will
be seen from the following pages, additional material showed that
the insect concerned is a new species, Huthrips nicotianw Hinds.

A Russian, Lindeman,’ first described scientifically in 1888 a
species of thrips, Thrips tabaci, which he reported as doing great
damage to tobacco in that country. While this same species is gen-
erally distributed in our own country and although its list of food
plants is large, it is not recorded as having attacked tobacco here.

Several communications were received by this Bureau during the

@Circular No. 68, published February, 1906, gives a brief account of the
insect and remedies recommended by the writer.

b Yearbook of the U. S. Department of Agriculture for 1904, p. 605, 1905.

¢Die Schiidlichsten Insekten des Tabak in Bessarabien, Bull. Soc. Imp.
Natur., Moscow, pp. 51-65. 1888. See also Targioni-Tozzetti, Animali ed
insetti del Tabacco, pp. 222-224, 1891.

6 THE. TOBACCO THRIPS.

summer of 1904, with inquiries concerning an injury to shade-grown
tobacco in Florida. The insect causing this injury was variously
described as “a little parasite,” “a flea,” “an unknown insect,” ete.
Not until the winter of 1904 could anything definite be learned. At
that time a report was received from Mr. W. W. Cobey, tobacco-
breeding expert, of the Bureau of Plant Industry, describing the
nature of the injury.

It seems that on tobacco grown in the South, and under shade espe-
cially, insect enemies of the crop are found at their worst. Of the
many insects with which the planter has had to deal in the past, the
budworm, requiring two and three applications a week of arsenicals,
has been far in the lead in the amount of damage done. It often
happens, when a crop is introduced into a new locality, that insects
previously unknown, finding in it a desirable food, leave their
natural food plant, multiply rapidly through new and more favor-
able conditions, and thus become serious pests. This is what has
happened to shade-grown tobacco in the South. The suckfly (Dicy-
phus minimus Uhl.), which first appeared on tobacco in 1888, has
made the raising of a second crop of shade-grown tobacco in Florida
unprofitable. The leaf miner or splitworm (/Athorimea operculella
Zell., formerly known as Gelechia solanella Boisd.) also has at-
tacked and become injurious to tobacco. And now comes a new pest
in this new tobacco thrips, which has threatened to surpass the
destructive budworm in actual injury.

Injury by the tobacco thrips was first observed in 1902, on tobacco
grown in the field on which the first shade was erected in 1896.
Since that time the insect seems to have increased rapidly, until,
during the summer of 1905, the thrips was found in all shade tobacco
fields examined, and the opinion is expressed by several planters
that, if allowed to continue its ravages, it is on a fair road to com-
pletely check the production of the shade crop.

The history of shade-grown tobacco in this country dates back to
the year 1896, when one-fourth of an acre of slat shade was put up at
Quincy, Fla. It was found that Sumatra wrapper tobacco grown in
this way nearly, if not altogether, equals the quality of the imported
article. So successful has been the raising of this tobacco that to-day
over 3,000 acres are grown under shade in Florida and the adjoining
counties of Georgia, while Texas has a smaller acreage.

NATURE AND EXTENT OF INJURY.

The injury occasioned by the tobacco thrips is known as * white
vein,” which, as the term indicates, is due to a white appearance of
the veins (see Pl. I, fig. 2). These veins show in the wrapper when
manufactured into cigars. The injury is brought about by the re-
moval of the sap by the adult thrips in feeding on the upper surface of
the leaf. The thrips feed on the space between the veins as well as

PLATE I.

e

y, U. S. Dept. of Agricultur

o

Bul. 65, Bureau of Entomolo

WPEAS GROWN BETWEEN TOBACCO

.—SLAT-SHADE FIELD, SHOWING IRON Co
(ORIGINAL. )

Fia. 1

CROPS.

CAUSED BY THE TOBACCO

FiGg. 2.—LEAF OF TOBACCO, SHOWING ‘WHITE VEINS

(ORIGINAL.)

THRIPS (EUTHRIPS NICOTIANA).

ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION. a
on the veins, but except on the veins themselves the indications of
their feeding disappear in the fermentation process.

The work of the pest should not be confused with the so-called
“white vein ” that sometimes occurs in tobacco grown in the North
and which seems to be due to a physiological disorder of the plant.

As a result of the thrips’s work, when the crop is affected to any
extent, all the white-vein tobacco must be sorted into a grade by itself
and sold as such, the expense of grading being thereby largely in-
creased. The value of the crop also is greatly reduced, as there is no
demand for this grade at present. There seems to be quite a variation
in the estimates of the depreciation of tobacco thus affected, one
packer estimating the value as decreased from $1.50 to 30 cents, or
a loss of $1.20 per pound, while another packer places the decrease at
from $1 to 50 cents, or a loss of 50 cents per pound. ‘These seem to
be maximum and minimum estimates.

For the year 1904 it is estimated that 20 per cent of the crop grown
under slat shade was damaged to such an extent by white veins that it
was thrown into a grade by itself.

The injury for 1905 was decreased to a great extent by the heavy
rainfall in the latter part of June and in July. In the crop of tobacco
sprayed with emulsion there were practically no white veins to be
found, and this was the case in 1906. Early tobacco was especially
affected by white veins in 1905, the injury having taken place pre-
viously to the rains. One crop of tobacco is estimated by the planter
as containing 33 per cent of affected wrappers, practically one-half
of which must necessarily be placed in a separate grade. Another
crop is estimated as containing 20 per cent of affected wrappers, 10
per cent being placed in a separate grade. The amount of injury will
vary from year to year, depending upon the period and amount of
rainfall.

In the past the greatest damage has been to that particular section
near the original shade, but the thrips now seem to be disseminated
throughout all the fields of shade tobacco.

ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION.

As soon as possible after reaching Quincy, specimens of the tobacco
thrips were collected and sent to Dr. W. E. Hinds, an authority on
this group of insects. He found that they represented a new species
and has named and described them.*

This insect was taken by the writer at Nacogdoches, Tex., on shade
tobacco, as well as at Quincy, Fla. In April adults and larvee were
taken in large numbers on cocklebur (Yanthium glabratum) growing
in the shade fields and in smaller numbers on dewberry, mustard, and
shepherd’s purse blossoms. It has been taken by the writer at Dallas,

@ Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington, Vol. XVIII, pp. 197-199, September, 1905.

8 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

Tex., in both winged and wingless forms, on Johnson grass (Sorghum
halepense) in March. It would seem, therefore, to be a general
feeder and widely distributed through the Southern States.

DESCRIPTION.

Adult.—Doctor Hinds describes the adult as follows:
HUTHRIPS NICOTIANZ Sp. Nov.

Average length, 1.05 mm. (0.95 to 1.13 mm.) ; average breadth at middle of
abdomen, 0.27 mm. (0.225 to 0.285 mm.). General color of head and thorax
light brown or tawny yellow-brown; abdomen dark brown.

Head about one and one-half times as wide as long, frequently slightly
retracted under ante-
rior margin of protho-
rax; oeciput trans-
versely wrinkled, pos-
terior margin strongly
thickened and darker
in color; anterior mar-
gin slightly bisinuate,
cheeks approximately
straight and parallel.
Eyes dark red in col-
or, not protruding, oc-
cupying together fully
one-half the width of
the front of the head
and being one half as
long as the head; mar-
vins around eyes pale

Fig. 1.—The tobacco thrips (Euthrips nicotiane): Adult insect. yellow in color; sur-

Much enlarged (author’s illustration). face of eyes finely fac-

eted and slightly pi-

lose; three ocelli present, well separated, posterior ones contiguous with yellow

borders to eyes, pale yellow in color and margined inwardly with pale-orange

crescents; one moderately stout dark spine in front of each posterior ocellus ;

postocular spines weak and inconspicuous. Mouth cone reaching nearly to pos-

terior edge of the prosternum, tapering abruptly ; maxillary palpi slender, three-

segmented. Antenne inserted slightly below front margin, approximate at

base, about two and one-half times as long as the head and approximately equal
to breadth of mesothorax; relative length of segments: 4

_—
B= ~

SSS
B=
ZA

i 2 3 + 5 6 7 8
6.2 11.4 13.5 13.6 12.2 16.2 3.0 4.5

Segment 1 is rounded, three-fourths as long as broad; 2 is as broad as les
following segments about three-fourths as thick; segments 3 to 6 are con-
stricted at bases, becoming more stout successively. Color of segments 1 and
2 uniform light brown; 3 to 5 pale yellow at bases, shading to brown at outer
ends, each succeeding segment from 3 to 6 becoming darker in color; 6 to 8 are

«The number of the segment is given above the line and below it the number
of spaces covered upon an eye-piece micrometer by an average of the segments
of 10 antenneze.

DESCRIPTION. é i)

dark brown. Spines upen segments 2 to 5 are of medium size, but not very con-
spicuous. Color of head varying from gray-brown to yellow-brown.

Prothorax about five-ninths as long as broad and slightly longer than the
head; sides rounded, slightly wider at hind than at fore angles; one stout spine
at each anterior, and two stouter spines of equal size at each posterior angle;
anterior marginal pair of spines about one-half as long as those at front angles;
usual row of five spines on each side of hind margin, of which number 4 is
equal in strength to those on the front margin. Mesothorax nearly one and
one-third times as wide as the prothorax, broadest posteriorly, sides curving
outward; mesonotum without conspicuous spines, posterior margin forming an
obtuse angle in middle. Metathorax slightly narrower than mesothorax, sides
nearly parallel, broader than prothorax at posterior edge; metanotum bears
two pairs of spines at front edge, the inner pair being as strong as those at
front angles of prothorax. Wings present (probably reduced at some season of
year), average length about 0.68 mm., not reaching to the tip of the abdomen,
breadth equal to about one-thirteenth of their length; fore wing has two longi-
tudinal veins, each bearing stout spines set at regular intervals; fore wings
shaded ash gray, hind wings gray only along basal three-fourths of midvein;
spines on wing veins dark brown and conspicuous; costa bears 19 to 24 spines;
fore vein, 13 to 18; hind vein, 10 to 12; scale, 5; interior of scale, 1; fringe of
hairs on costa of fore wing quite heavy, in length exceeding the breadth of the
wing. Legs of medium length, lighter than body in color, pale yellow, shaded
more or less with brown on upper side at middle of femora and tibize; a pair
of stout brown spines at inside of tip of each tibia, small brown spines scat-
tered along femora and tibize; spines standing in two rows on inner side of
hind tibize are weak and only about four in each row.

Abdomen nearly cylindrical to eighth segment, then tapering abruptly to an
acute tip; color uniformly dark brown; a still darker-colored narrow chitinous
thickening extends across dorsal side of segments 2 to 8 near anterior edge.
Three or four quite stout and rather conspicuous dark-brown spines stand at
each side of dorsal plates on 2 to 8; six rather prominent spines stand in a
row on posterior edge of ventral plates 2 to 7; terminal spines stout and
prominent; tenth segment split open along dorsal median line.

Described from 10 females.

Male specimens of this species have not been found.

Three cotypes (three slides) deposited in the U. S. National Museum.
Type No. 8454, U.S.N.M. Three cotypes (three slides) deposited at the Massa-
chusetts Agricultural College. Four cotypes (two slides) retained.

Habitat.— Quincy, Fla.; Nacogdoches, Tex.; Climax, Ga.

Wingless females appear in May and seem to predominate by the
latter part of that month.

This species may be readily distinguished from Luthrips tritict
Fitch by its color, which is brown, that of tritici beg yellow. Dif-
ferences in structure by which the species may be readily separated
are found in the postocular spines, those of nécotianw being weak and
inconspicuous, while those of ¢ritici are quite prominent. On the
wings prominent differences are found in the number of spines on
the veins, the costa of nicotiane bearing from 19 to 24, the fore vein
13 to 18, and the hind vein 10 to 12, while in ¢riticé the costa bears
from 26 to 28, the fore vein 20 to 22, and the hind vein 15 to 18.

Eog.—The eggs are deposited in the tissues of the stem and leaves.

Larva, first stage—Length about 0.23 mm.; width of mesothorax 0.11 mm.

24372—No. 65—07 Mm——2

10 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

General shape fusiform. Color of posterior part of thorax and entire abdomen
pale yellow; elsewhere pearly white. Head quadrate; eyes reddish. Antenne
0.145 mm. in length; distinctly four-segmented; basal segment cylindrical, ”
short; second ovate, slightly shorter than the third; third slightly conical,
the apex joining the second; fourth fusiform, widest near the basal fourth,
about equal in length to the other three. The fourth segment is distinctly
annulated, the second and third indistinctly so; setz are present on all seg-
ments, Most numerous on the fourth. Legs translucent white, stout. Abdomen
tapering posteriorly ; with ten segments, the first eight nearly equal in length,
the ninth twice and tenth three times the length of the preceding. Hach
abdominal segment with longitudinal rows of sete, the ninth with two and
tenth with four spines that are four times the length of the sete.

Larva, second stage.—Length from 0.6 to 1.17 mm.; width of mesothorax from
0.14 to 0.2 mm.; shape same as in first stage. Color of thorax and abdomen
yellowish, with exception of the last abdominal segment. Head quadrate;
antennze with four segments, the fourth being more distinctly annulated than in
the first stage. Abdomen with the setze increasing in length posteriorly; ninth
and tenth segments about equal in length, each Jess than twice the length of the
others.

The young nymph or prepupé.—Length, 0.52 to 0.62 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.10 to 0.12 mm. Antenne translucent, extending forward, much short-
ened and composed of five segments, first two cylindrical and very short, third
and fourth globose, fifth tapering to the apex. The last segment of the abdomen
is set with four spines by use of which the young nymph seems to protect itself,
when approached by another the abdomen being turned upon it. The wing
sheaths are very noticeably separated, the upper one extending to the middle of
the second segment, the lower one to the middle of the third segment. The legs
are translucent white, stout.

The-full-grown nymph or pupa.—tLength, 0.68 to 1.22 mm.; width of meso-
thorax, 0.15 to 0.20 mm. Shape similar to the adult. Color yellowish; head,
antenne, wing pads, legs, and caudal segments of the abdomen varying to pearly
white. Antenne extending to the middle of the prothborax. Three yellowish
ocelli between the eyes, the latter dark red. Wing pads so closely applied as to
appear single, extending to the middle of the fifth abdominal segment; length
from head to tip of wing pads 0.89 mm. The abdomen is noticeably contracted
longitudinally; greatest width, 0.24 mm.; longest sete, 0.078 min.

HABITS.

Feeding.—When examinations were first made, April 17, the adult
thrips were found feeding in the seed beds on the upper surface of
the young tobacco plants, and in the field on the upper surface of the
leaves of young cocklebur weeds. In the larval stage they feed on the
lower surface of the leaves of tobacco and weeds, but as they become
adult seem to prefer the upper surface, a habit which is very favorable
for remedial treatment, as they can then be reached much more readily
by sprays. To determine the attractiveness of tobacco the experiment
was tried of transplanting young tobacco plants into a field that had
been prepared ready for transplanting, but in which weeds, consisting
of cockleburs and grass, were to be found.

In order that thrips might not be accidentally taken from the seed
hed on the plants, the latter were dipped in a solution of kerosene
emulsion and this washed off with water. Fifteen plants were set in

LIFE HISTORY. atl

a 2-acre field at intervals of 4 and 8 rods. The day following was
rainy and unfavorable to movement of the thrips, but the second fol-
lowing day was pleasant. In the afternoon of the second day an
examination was made, and four plants were found to have been cov-
ered with dirt in the ridging for setting the field. Of the eleven
remaining, four plants were found without thrips, five with one each,
one with two, and one with three. From this it would seem that the
thrips are quite strongly attracted from the weeds in the field to the
tobacco. ;

As the thrips commence feeding and breeding on the young plants
the lower or sand leaves receive the greatest amount of injury. From
the lower leaves they gradually work up the stalks to the leaves above,
until at harvesting time they have reached more than half way up.
Tn attacking a leaf they first appear feeding near the tip, and grad-
ually work toward the stem. It may be well to note here that the
leaves are harvested by picking—called “ priming ”—as they ripen,
and that the stalks often reach_the slats or cloth 9 feet from the
ground. In the early stages of the tobacco the thrips are found on
that grown in sun and shade alike, but as the sun tobacco thickens
up they seem to leave it and are found in numbers only on the shade-
grown tobacco. In a field in which Cuba and Sumatra varieties
were grown together the thrips were found to be equally injurious to
both.

Jumping.—When disturbed, the adults have the habit of jumping.
and have thus been mistaken by some for small fleas. This charac-
teristic is typical of the genus to which the tobacco thrips belongs.

The motion seems to be produced by a,combined movement of the
wings and abdomen.

Flight.—The closely related wheat thrips takes flight readily, but
the tobacco thrips apparently does not do so. Notwithstanding all
the observations he has made, the writer has as yet failed to see it
take wing, and its power of flight must be limited.

FOOD PLANTS.

The tobacco thrips seems to be a general feeder, as adults were taken
in April on blooms of dewberry (Rubus sp.), shepherd’s purse
(Bursa bursa-pastoris), and mustard (Brassica sp.). Adults and
larvee were taken on oats, wheat, and cocklebur as well as on tobacco.

LIFE HISTORY.

Methods of study—In order to determine the life cycle, adult
thrips weré confined in small wide-mouth vials on parts of tobacco
leaves for periods of twelve and twenty-four hours, but repeated
attempts failed to induce them to oviposit. The parts of tobacco
leaves were thereupon replaced by small bean pods, with the result
that oviposition soon took place. Absorbent cotton was used as a
stopper for the vial in order to keep the moisture from forming on

12 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

the inside and thus catching the young thrips, which readily succumb
when so caught.

Life cycle —The life cycle of this species is found to be quite short
and very similar to that of the closely related wheat thrips, Luthrips
tritici. In May and June only twelve or thirteen days are required
for its completion. In the tobacco field the eggs appear to be depos-
ited in the tissues on the under surface of the leaf. In May and June
the incubation period for eggs laid in confinement in young bean
pods seems to average about four days. The larvee, upon hatching,
feed on the under surface of the leaf; during this stage, which lasts
seven days, and before changing to pupae, they molt twice. When
about to pupate the larve crawl to some obscure nook; there they
remain inactive, without feeding, during the pupal stage, which lasts
two days. The adults, on emerging, have a yellowish color, which
in a few hours turns to the normal brown. As adults the thrips crawl
to the upper surface of the leaf and commence feeding.

Hibernation.—The tobacco thrips appears to hibernate in the adult
stage. When the fields were visited, the latter part of October, not a
specimen could be found, although another thrips (Chirothrips
crassus Hinds), which was taken in large numbers in sheaths of
grass found growing in the tobacco fields, was at first mistaken for
the tobacco thrips. Mr. W. W. Cobey informed the writer that he
had observed the tobacco thrips on the leaves of cocklebur about
October 10, previous to a cold spell. Thus it would seem that the
thrips goes into hibernation after the first approach of cold weather.

OTHER THRIPS THAT MAY BE MISTAKEN FOR THE TOBACCO
THRIPS.

While the tobacco thrips is the only species commonly found on
tobacco, yet a number of other thrips which may be mistaken for this
pest are found in the vicinity of the tobacco fields, or even acci-
dentally upon the tobacco itself. Among those that may be so mis-
taken are the following species:

Luthrips tritici Fitch, the “ wheat thrips,” is a species generally
distributed throughout the South. It has a wide range of food plants
and can be found during a large part of the year in almost any blos-
som. In Florida it has been reported as injuring the orange and
strawberry by attacking the blossoms. At Quincy, Fla., during the
summer of 1905, it was found in large numbers associated with the
tobacco thrips in oat fields bordering the tobacco fields. It was also
found seriously injuring roses, causing the outer petals to wither
before the flowers opened. It may be distinguished from the tobacco
thrips by the yellowish color of the adult or winged form, which in
the tobacco thrips is dark brown.

Thrips tabaci Lind., the “ onion thrips,” has been reported by Prof.
A. L. Quaintance as quite abundant in Florida, attacking onions,

NATURAL CONTROL. 13

cabbage, and cauliflower. It may be distinguished from the tobacco
thrips by its color, which is yellowish.

Anthothrips niger Osborn is another species which was very abun-
dant at Quincy the summer of 1905. In oats and wheat bordering
the tobacco fields it was found breeding in vast numbers with the
wheat and tobacco thrips. It was also occasionally taken on tobacco
and tomato. It is a strong flyer, and may be further distinguished
from the tobacco thrips by its much larger size and black color.

A few specimens of olothrips bicolor Hinds were taken on oats
and wheat in the vicinity of tobacco fields. This species may be
distinguished by the white or yellowish pigmentation of the first
three segments of the abdomen.

Chirothrips crassus Hinds was taken in October and November in
large numbers in the sheaths of grass growing in tobacco fields. It
was at first mistaken for the tobacco pest, because of the similarity
in color, but may be easily distinguished, as it does not have the
jumping habit of the tobacco thrips.

NATURAL CONTROL.

Rains.—Of the natural checks, rain is the most important. It is
known that nearly all thrips thrive during warm and dry weather,
and that they are washed from their food plants and destroyed in
numbers by rain. This is true of the tobacco thrips in that it is
washed off by heavy rains, yet unless the rain continues for several
days few seem to be destroyed, for at the end of the first or by the
second clear day following the writer has found it on the leaves in as
large numbers as ever.

The influence of rain upon the pest, however, was very noticeable in
its effect during the summer of 1905. Up to the latter part of June
very little rain had fallen, and the drought was showing its effect on
the unirrigated fields. At this time the dry spell was broken and
rains were heavy and frequent. The June, 1905, rainfall, which was
nearly three times that of the preceding June, yet still below the nor-
mal, nearly all fell during the latter part of the month and was fol-
lowed by the heavy July rainfall, which was the greatest since 1900,
and more than twice that of 1904. Asa result the thrips were kept off
the leaves, the plants grew rapidly, and priming was forced into
twenty days where it usually takes thirty. The sand leaves were lost
in large part because of this rapid ripening and the leaves affected to
the greatest extent by white vein were thus eliminated from the crop.
As the result of these weather conditions, white veins in the late to-
bacco were reduced to a very small percentage.

The great amount of injury in 1904 was undoubtedly due to the
exceptionally droughty season. This will be shown by the accom-
panying chart (fig. 2) of total monthly precipitation for the last
seven years. That during 1905 and 1906 the injury was so much

14 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

\

“less than in 1904 must have been due to the greater precipitation.
As before stated, it is quite evident that the amount of injury by
thrips will vary from year to year, depending upon the period and
amount of rainfall. The total precipitation in inches at Tallahassee,
Fla., during April, May, June, and July of the years 1898-1906 is
shown in the following table:

A
Precipitation in inches at Tallahassee.
April. May. | June. | July.
So == = Length of
Year. Depar- Depar- Depar- | Depar- record
| Total. |jture from) Total. |ture from) Total. |ture from) Total. |ture from) (years).
| | normal. | normal, | normal, normal.
¥ a | Es ST
|
1898.0: S2aeei oes ete fal | ak} ) 155) —=2.65))" 4.49) = 25 |, 10500 41.71 14
IC ee emes Ss aecesnae Ura aeees oaeasmrcuallosauecae jas demas ere [Seon cee Sacnelseoee esters aaa eeeee as) SSC Sones.
19003. Pree eee 4.05} 4-1.05 2.06 —1.60| 16.47} +10.72 | 10.31 +1. 87 15
19OUs eee ae 2.72 —0.27 | 5.07 +1.59 5. 61 — 0.75 8.25 +0. 02 16
AG025 Sass eee 0. 84 —1.15 2.86 —0.62}) 9:94) + 3.58 5. 83 —2. 40 17
1 SO Pere eh ees Orit --1.88 5.59 +2.11 10.01 | + 3.65 7.09 —1.14 18
O04 NAS Sena acaee se 1.65 —0,. 34 1.05 —2. 43 1.33) — 5.08 3. 95 —4, 28 19
HOOD Sess ce a okices 0.92} —1.07) 7.55 +4.07 3.50 | — 2.86] 8.76 +0. 58 20
TOGGE| R aaa ta ante 0.15 | —2.43 |e DeOD +0. 70 5.17 — 1.23; 8.88 -+ 1.00 21

Insects —Specimens of a small bug, 77iphleps insidiosus Say,
were found very commonly upon oats, where they seemed to be quite
destructive to the thrips. When captured with the thrips by sweep-
ing the oats with a net, they were shortly found with a thrips im-
paled upon their beaks, sucking out the juices. While this insect
may assist in decreasing the tobacco thrips that breed on oats, it has
not as yet been found on tobacco.

A fungus also was found growing upon dead thrips taken from
tobacco in the seed bed; but this may be, and probably is, a form
attacking the insect after its natural death.

REMEDIES.

Remedies may be considered under two heads, namely, cultural
methods and insecticide applications.

CULTURAL METHODS.

It is the practice of many tobacco growers to start the seed bed in
the shade-tobacco field (see Pl. IL), and, after the plants are removed,
to plant it with the rest of the field. This practice is unquestionably
a bad one, not alone from its furnishing a breeding place for the
thrips, but also because it becomes a center of infestation for many
other pests, particularly flea-beetles. It was noticed during the sum-
mer of 1905 that insect pests, and especially flea-beetles, were the most
numerous in transplanted seed beds and in that part of the field
adjoining the seed bed. It seems advisable, therefore, that the seed
bed be located outside and at some distance from the tobacco field.
Where it is necessary that the seed bed be located in the field, the
thrips can be largely overcome by frequent applications of kerosene
emulsion, as hereinafter described. Applications of Paris green also

CULTURAL METHODS. 15

S

}
|
|

SS
\ LTS OY AY | RRS TY:
a

i a fb 5/906 fF |
Bees,
See,

(aa prise
y [}—4—, Pens S|
(eae al Cy S|

bo]
‘Oo
Ss
iS
0

mee MN CE Me Che GNit ic eG)

i)

Fic. 2.—Diagram showing total monthly precipitation at Tallahassee, Fla., during April,
May, June, and July, 1900-1906, to illustrate relation of rainfall to amount of injury
by the tobacco thrips, (Original,)

16 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

should be made to check other insects. This will apply to the seed
bed wherever it be located.

Since it is evident that the thrips pass the period between crops
in the tobacco field feeding upon catch crops that follow, as rye,
wheat, ete., or upon weeds which have been allowed to grow, it seems
advisable that thorough and clean cultivation be practiced. While
it is possible that the employment of the kerosene emulsion treat-
ment, as recommended, may prove so effective as to permit the grow-
ing of catch crops (Pl. I, fig. 1) without injurious effect, yet a thor-
ough cultivation of the soil after the crop is harvested is strongly
advised, for besides its effect on the thrips it will result in the destrue-
tion of budworm and hornworm pup and grasshopper eggs.

As soon as priming is finished the stalks should be plowed under,
together with all other vegetation in the field. Although cockleburs
were observed repeatedly during the summer of 1905, coming up the
day following cultivation, and although the seed may lie in the soil
two and three years before germinating, yet if the weeds are prevented
from fruiting in the fall by keeping the soil well plowed the effect
will soon become apparent.

The practice followed by some planters of keeping a space of 10
feet bordering the shade field free from all vegetation is quite desira-
ble as affecting the thrips.

It is the general practice to grow oats in fields bordering the shade
tobacco, but as the tobacco thrips is found breeding in vast numbers
in oats it would seem advisable to replace oats with corn in these
border fields.

The part that irrigation may take in controlling the thrips seems
to be of importance. Somewhat less than one-fourth of the shade
tobacco in Florida is irrigated. This is carried out by one of two
methods, namely, surface or overhead delivery. Surface irrigation,
which is largely practiced, does not seem to affect the pest. In the
overhead method piping is employed, provided at intervals with
laterals that extend 4 or 5 feet above the cover and to which are
attached nozzles that give a fountain spray. In this way an artificial
rain is produced. This overhead irrigation seems to have quite a
noticeable effect in decreasing the numbers of thrips. Three irriga-
tions weekly seem to be much more effective than two. One firm
estimates a decrease in injury of 10 per cent in a field thus irrigated
in 1904. The great expense of piping and damage from freezing has
kept the method from being installed to any great extent as yet.

In growing wrapper tobacco, shade is produced by the use of either
slats (Pl. I, fig. 1; Pl. Ti, fig.-1) or-cheese«cloth. ~~ (Pin Niiatemam
The temperature in the shade produced by the former is reduced
about 10° from the normal, while by the latter it is increased 10°.
From information received it is found that the thrips have, up

Bul. 65, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE II.

FIG. 1.—SLAT-SHADE TOBACCO FIELD, SHOWING SEED BED. (ORIGINAL.)

FiG. 2.—CHEESECLOTH-SHADE TOBACCO FIELD, SHOWING SEED BED. (ORIGINAL.)

INSECTICIDES. Le
to the present time, caused a much larger percentage of injury to
tobacco grown under the slat shade. During the summer of 1905,
however, they were found causing no small amount of injury to
tobacco under cheese cloth. Whether or not the meteorological dif-
ferences between cheese-cloth and slat shade have an influence on
the thrips’s work, can not be told at present, but the matter is im-
portant and should be watched closely.

INSECTICIDES.

In carrying on experiments to determine the most effective and
practical insecticides, reference was made to Professor Quaintance’s
bulletin entitled “ The Strawberry and the Onion Thrips.”7 The
insecticides which Professor Quaintance found to be most effective
on ELuthrips tritici were given repeated trials. As a result it was
found that the resistance of the tobacco thrips to insecticides is far
greater than that of Luthrips tritici.

In experimenting with insecticides three important points, aside
from their effect upon the insect, were to be considered: First, their
relative cost; second, the expense involved in their application; and,
third, their effect, if any, upon the foliage. Irom the nature of the
mouth parts of thrips, which are fitted for piercing and sucking,
stomach poisons were not available and contact insecticides were
necessarily used. These latter, as is generally known, kill by entering
through the breathing pores and setting up an irritation, or by closing
them and bringing about the death of the insect from suffocation. It
has been found that the adult feeds largely on the upper surface of the
leaves. In this habit, therefore, lies our opportunity to treat the
pest successfully with insecticides.

Among the insecticides experimented with are the following,
the sprays being applied with a knapsack sprayer:

Rose-leaf insecticide—This is a high-grade extract of tobacco.
Professor Quaintance, in his experiments with the wheat thrips,
finds this insecticide to be the most effective and practical remedy
for use against the thrips affecting strawberries, and recommends
for that species 1 part to 48 of water. This strength, when used
upon the tobacco thrips, has but little effect. Various strengths
were tried. When 1 part of the insecticide to 20 parts of water is
used, the thrips seem to be paralyzed, remaining immovable for
about an hour and a half, after which they commence to show life,
and soon become as active as ever. Further experiments with this
insecticide show it to be effective when used with whale-oil soap in
the following proportions:

Rose-leaf insecticide :
Whale-oil soap —_~___ = 2 : : a 4 pound.
Weiter a= 22S oe re . 2 25 eee 2 ae. ee 20 quarts.

ee 1 quart.

@Bul. 46, Fla. Agric. Exp. Sta., July, 1898.

18 THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

Nikoteen.—This is a preparation advertised as containing 40 per
cent of nicotine. It was applied in various strengths. Sprayed at
the rate of 1 part to 144 of water, 38 per cent of the thrips were found
to be dead when the examination was made, twenty-four hours later.
No greater strengths were tried, as the cost of the insecticide would
not allow its use.

Tobacco decoction—This was made by boiling 1 pound of tobacco,
stems and leaves, in 1 gallon of water for a half hour. This strength
was very effective, practically all of the thrips that were fairly hit
by the spray being killed. Weaker strengths were less efficient. As
other forms of nicotine were found to be more effective in combination
with whale-oil soap, the latter was used with the decoction. When
so used, however, the mixture, owing apparently to some chemical
change which had taken place, burned the leaf.

Whale-oil soap—rThis was used in the proportion of 1 pound of
soap to 6 gallons of water. When examined shortly after spraying
the thrips were seemingly as lively as ever. <A strength of 1 pound
to 5 gallons killed about 50 per cent of the thrips, but seemed to
burn the leaf shghtly.

Glucose and molasses—It was thought that possibly the thrips
might be caught or prevented from working on the leaf by means of
a sticky spray. A proportion of 1 quart of glucose to 6 quarts of
water was tried. While a few thrips were caught and killed by the
spray, others had escaped and were found, after the water had evapo-
rated, walking about over the leaf without trouble. Molasses, also,
was tried, but found to be even less effective than the glucose.

Dusting with lime or other powders seems to be of little value, as
the thrips are found making their way about through the dust with-
out trouble. Lime also has the disadvantage that it is not entirely
washed off by rains.

Arsenicals were tried, but, as expected, seem to be of little value

when used for the thrips.
Since this is our strongest contact poison it
was thought from the first that if it could be used in sufficient strength
to kill the thrips without injury to the tobacco leaf, it would furnish
a satisfactory remedy. Experiments were made with the following
formula for the stock solution:

Kerosene emulsion.

Kerosene: 4. Ses os 2S ee eee Be aS 2 gallons.
Hard:.s0ap sae 20S sae ee ee eee eee + pound.
Witenes Ss ee 8 eee ee eee eee 1 gallon.

A strength of 1 part of stock solution to 10 parts of water proved
quite satisfactory in killing the thrips. This spray was found to
burn the leaves when used in the sun, but further experiments have
demonstrated that it can be used on a cloudy day or late in the evening
without danger of injury.

WHEN TO APPLY KEROSENE EMULSION. 19

THE BEST TREATMENT.

Of the many insecticides used, kerosene emulsion has been found
to be the most satisfactory remedy for the tobacco thrips. Tobacco
decoction in a concentrated strength seems to be effective, but, because
of the amount of material necessary and the labor involved in its prep-
aration, its use is less satisfactory. - Rose-leaf insecticide, while effect-
ive in concentrated strengths, is impractical because of its greater
expense as compared with the emulsion. The advantages of kerosene
emulsion are its destructive power against the insects and its low cost
when compared with other possible remedies. Its one disadvantage
hes in the fact that it can not be apphed while the sun is shining.
This has been overcome by night appleations, as herein described.

It was suggested that the kerosene might affect the aroma of the
cigar. Cigars wrapped with sprayed tobacco, however, fail to give
evidence of any such effect. Very particular attention was paid to
this point, but no traces whatever of the kerosene in either the leaf or
the cigar could be detected.

HOW TO MAKE KEROSENE EMULSION.

The formula heretofore given, namely, 2 gallons of kerosene, 1 gal-
lon water, and one-half pound of soap, is followed when hard soap
is used. The soap should be cut into fine shavings and dissolved in
the gallon of boiling water. The water should then be added to the
kerosene while still hot and churned by means of a force pump, pump-
ing it back into the same vessel for ten minutes. When thoroughly
emulsified it has a creamy appearance and upon cooling becomes much
thicker.

A certain naphtha soft soap is now manufactured that will dis-
solve readily and by the use of which the emulsion can be made with-
out heat. When this soap is used, a pint will replace the hard soap
in the formula. This naphtha soap has the advantage that it can be
made up at short notice and at any place needed. In lots of 100
pounds it can be obtained at 34 cents per pound. Whale-oil soap has
been used to replace hard soap in the formula, but seems to have very
little advantage over hard soap.

When making the emulsion, care should be taken that it is com-
pletely emulsified. Each particle of the kerosene must be surrounded
by a film of soap, and unless this be brought about by thorough
churning with the force pump the kerosene, being free, will not mix
with the water, but will rise to the surface and, as the sprayer be-
comes nearly empty, will be forced out in the spray and burn the
foliage.

WHEN TO APPLY THE EMULSION.

The emulsion should be applied first when the plants are in the
seed bed. A number of applications will be advisable in order that

20 . THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

the hibernated thrips may be killed and not carried to the field on
the plants when set out. Spraying in the field should be commenced
as soon as the plants are transplanted. Two applications a week,
when possible, seem advisable. By starting when the plants are in
the seed bed and spraying regularly, it seems probable that the pest
can be almost entirely checked.

In combating the budworm of tobacco it is necessary to apply Paris
green in the leaf bud (1 tablespoonful to a peck of corn meal) two or
three times weekly to prevent serious injury. The moisture fur-
nished by the kerosene spray, when it comes in contact with the Paris
ereen, has a tendency to slightly burn the bud, and care should be
taken not to spray into the bud more than is necessary. As the plants
eet larger this can be easily prevented. It will be found well to
apply the Paris green and meal on the morning following the spray-
ing, when possible.

HOW TO USE THE EMULSION.

After experimenting with different strengths it was found that
1 part of the stock emulsion to 10 parts of water is effective. The
emulsion may be handily diluted to the required strength in large
quantities, in barrels or casks set near the rows to be sprayed. If
left standing for longer than two days, the kerosene separates from
the soap and therefore should not be diluted until the day it is to be
applied or day before. The tobacco has been sprayed with emulsion
during the day until it was 6 inches high without burning. Even
if burning does occur in this early stage it is not objectionable, as
the leaves drop from the stalk before priming commences.

The emulsion is best applied by means of a knapsack sprayer.
While the plants are small the insecticide can be properly apphed
by spraving one row at a time, but as the plants get larger it has been
found best to spray a row twice, going down on one side and back on
ihe other. It has been found that spraying can be commenced shortly
after 5 o’clock in the evening, except it be a very bright, hot day,
when it will be necessary to wait until a little later. On large planta-
tions this gives insufficient time during daylight, and spraying after
dark becomes necessary. In so spraying after dark the use of two
hands to a row, one on each side, preceded by a boy with a lantern or
a torch, is a very satisfactory and economical method of application.
Care should be taken that the spray is distributed over all the leaves,
as it must come in contact with the thrips when sprayed in order to
be effective.

COST OF SPRAYING.

Supplies and labor—The applications necessary to keep the pest
in check will be found to vary considerably, depending upon the rain-
fall. It seems improbable that spraying for the maximum period of
ten weeks will be found necessary when regular spraying is started

CAUTION. |

while the plants are still in the seed bed. The amount of spray neces-
sary and the labor required in spraying varies with the growth of
the plant. It was found in June, when the plants were about 2 feet
high, that 8 acres were sprayed in four hours by nine men and three
boys, using six spray pumps and applying 50 gallons of the diluted
emulsion per acre. This was at a cost of about 55 cents an acre for
labor and 50 cents for spray. It is roughly estimated that the ex-
pense will not exceed $20 an acre, even if found necessary to spray
twice weekly for the maximum period of ten weeks.

Apparatus—In applying the emulsion it is necessary, from the
nature of the crop, to use a knapsack sprayer. These sprayers can
be purchased for from $5 to $15. The writer would recommend the
the purchase of the better grades, as they will be found the most
satisfactory and in the end the cheapest.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS.

The following recommendations are made as a result of the ex-
periments carried on in 1905, and the success following their practice :

1. Practice clean cultivation of the field between crops.

2. Plant fields bordering the shade to other than cereal crops.

3. Locate the seed bed outside the tobacco field.

4. Apply kerosene emulsion (1 part to 10 parts of water) with a
knapsack sprayer twice a week regularly, commencing while the
plants are in the seed bed.

It is very important that the spray be regularly and carefully ap-
plied during the first few weeks after transplanting, in order that the
adult thrips which have passed the winter in the tobacco field be
killed before depositing their eggs on the tobacco or weeds in the field.

CAUTION.

The kerosene emulsion must be churned until thoroughly emulsi-
fied, else burning will follow the application.

The emulsion should not be made up to the 1 to 10 strength until
shortly before using, as when left standing for longer than two days
the excess of water has a tendency to dissolve the soap surrounding
the oil globules, setting the oil free.

Spraying must be done in the evening (after 5 o’clock), else the
sun’s rays will cause a burning of the leaves, following the spray.
Spraying may be done on a cloudy day, but only when there is no
danger of the clouds breaking away and allowing the sun to appear.

Spraying should not follow an application of Paris green, and
when preceding it the plants should be allowed to dry before the
Paris green is apphed. Care should be taken not to spray into the
leaf bud, so far as that can be avoided.

oO THE TOBACCO THRIPS.

ADDENDA.
THE TOBACCO THRIPS IN 1905-6.

Although the writer was unable to continue the work in Florida
the past year (1906), as planned, he took advantage, in November, of
the opportunity offered to visit Quincy. An interview with several
planters was sufficient to further convince him of the practicability
of spraying with the kerosene emulsion and the efficiency of this spray
when carefully apphed.

The injury produced by the thrips the past year has been only
about 60 per cent of that of 1905. This is undoubtedly due to the
variation in the period andthe amount of precipitation, as before
stated by the writer.

EFFECT OF THE SPRAY.

As previously stated, the writer was associated during the work on
this insect with Mr. W. W. Cobey, tobacco-breeding expert of the
Bureau of Plant Industry. During the past two years Mr. Cobey
has had opportunity to observe the results obtained from the use
of the kerosene-emulsion spray and at the request of the writer has
prepared the following statement in relation to its effect on the
character of the tobacco and the desirability of its use:

It is the opinion of the writer, after a careful comparative study of the
treated and untreated tobacco, that the use of kerosene emulsion on tobacco,
when carefully prepared and applied at the proper time under favorable con-
ditions, is in every way practicable and can be profitably employed by tobacco
growers in preventing almost wholly the ravages of this insect. There was
considerable apprehension among the tobacco growers at first regarding the
probable injurious effects of the kerosene emulsion on the character of the
tobacco. However, a careful study of the cured and fermented tobacco from
the sprayed plants showed that the spraying with kerosene emulsion had not
injured the quality or reduced the value of the crop. It has been impossible
to discover any difference in the color, elasticity, or aroma of the treated and
untreated tobacco after curing and fermenting. On the other hand, the pre-
vention of injury to the tobacco by the thrips, by means of the kerosene-emul-
sion spray, prevented a serious loss to the grower.

The injured tobacco may be fermented sufficiently to even up the color of
the leaves and darken the white or discolored veins so that the injury will not
be noticeable, but this severe sweating will darken the leaves to such an
extent that they can only be classed as dark wrapper.

The use of the spray was quite general during the season of 1906, and seri-
ous injury to the tobacco from the thrips was thus prevented. It was found
by those who commenced to apply the spray early in the season and were
forced to discontinue it after the tobacco was about 2 feet high, that there was
but very little injury by the thrips, while those who did not use it suffered a loss
to an extent of about one-fourth of that of 1904. During the year the injury
under slat shade was very slight.

For those who may apprehend injury to the quality of the tobacco it may
be said that the experiments conducted during the last two seasons indicate
that when spraying is begun very early in the season it will not be necessary
to continue it after the crop is about half grown.

PN a

Page
Holothrips bicolor, mistaken for tobacco thrips_— ——_—_ eee ee 13
Anthotnrips niger, mistaken for tobacco thrips——__---- __--_-._-_-__+_=— 3
Arsenicals, ineffective against tobacco thrips_——-__ Ee ie =, : 18
Brassica sp. (See Mustard.)
BuUaworm, cultivation as remedy —-.2-22-= 0 ==. = Se ee 16
most injurious of tobacco insects in South in ee Eco a eh eee 6
Bursa bursa-pastoris. (See Shepherd’s purse. )

Gabbace: rood plant of Vimips t@oacia—_——- === - == = = _ 12-13
Wawthimnower, ood plant of Wiuips ta0acr = —=2- =~ 2 12-13
Chirothrips crassus, on grass, mistaken for tobacco tui a Ae Se 2A
Wockicpur, cood plant of tobacco thrips.—.——---..-.=-..-~_.2---==-_-=+= (Gis
Cultivation, LEMedy stor stOUACCO) INSCCIS=2 2 = eek 16
We nekny. LOOUNplaAnt Of LODACCO EhTIpS=. = 8 Te 22. ee et ie alsl
PPREHUIMLSANUUIVINUIUS Olly tOWACCOL. 2s = See as 6
Buthrips nicotiane. (See also Thrips, tobacco.)

description of adult and: stages.—=- =. == ee _ 8-10
Miter wMustialem stor cOpACCO. thripss- 22.22. = ts 5, 12
Bied-peetles mine tobacco, Nelds2=_— = 2 28 et suse fe 14
Hines tound on dead tobacco thrips-........-_--__=_-=_ ===. 3 14
Gelechia solanella=Phthorimea operculella__.____..__________________- 6
Glucose and water, ineffective against tobacco thrips___________________ 18
Grass, food plant of Chirothrips crassus __._-___---_-_.-__-____________ 12,13
GLASSHOppers, Cultivation as remedy-222— 294. 265 oes 2s 2 ened Ta 16
Hornworm, cultivation as remedy____- ee OES: Bed eed ANA tr es = J ae Se 16
MINCCMmOENe ILCs «Ok tODACCOMS= =. =. 2 ee ee ee et 6
LHrips= 2s Dee ee ee ee ee 14
Insecticides, used in experimentation against tobacco thrips __-_________ 17-18
Irrigation, overhead, remedy for tobacco thrips_________________________ 16
Johnson grass. (See Sorghum halepense.)
Kerosene emulsion, remedy for tobacco thrips__-________ ee ne eee 18-21
Leaf-miner. (See Phthorimaa operculella.)
Lime, ineffective against tobacco thrips__________ 3. eS ee ee 18
Molasses, ineffective against tobacco thrips______ 2 2G eee Se 18
Mustard, food plant of tobacco thrips_._____________ nl Ee eS BD (aul
“ Nikoteen,” against tobacco thrips_____— een ee eee ays ee 20
Oats, food plant of Wolothrips bicolor and . ininotnrips Niger sk La 13
Huthrwins tritici... © 2. ee ee eee 12
noOwWAeCO. thmips=—— =~ == = _ 2 So a See Se 11
mon stoodeplant, of Thrips tavact_-_._--___ _..__.= 2 es 12
thrips. (See Thrips tabaci.)
Orange, food plant of Huthrips tritict.__..._..._....____-_-.-__.....__ 12
Phthorimea operculelia, on tobacco__.___.....___-._---___=_=__________ 6
Revie ainntWence (On TODACCO! CHEIpSs=.54.~-_-._- 2-2 =. 13-14
Rose-leaf insecticide, against tobacco thrips.________-_--_---_- ee il

24 INDEX.

Roses, Loodsplants Ol BEM VS Ly UU Glee

Rubus sp. (See Dewberry.)

RVC; LOOM WOLAMIE KOM, sO LAC COs LT Se

Shepherd's purse; foods plant of Tobacconist) Sa ee

Sorghum halepense, food plant of tobacco thrips________________

Splitworm. (See Phthorimaa operculella. )

Spray, for tobacco thrips, no injurious effect on product____-______-_____
SpPrayine- Stor tobacco thrips SCOS === sess eee
Siraywbernry. food! plant Of eB Greys G1 Uet C= = a een

Suckfly. (See Dicyphus minimus.)

Temperatures, in slat and cheesecloth shade tobacco fields, difference___—

Thrips tabaci (onion thrips) mistaken for tobacco thrips_———___~
ON) tobACCOMINRWSS io ae ee eee eee

tobacco. (See also Huthrips nicotiane.)

Culiiralemechods tor contro] een
distribution _____ ita? ptt, MEE Rete Ue, seal elas

feeding shabitS= 22 = se Le a ee
bMS oe pat ese ee Ne ee Ae ee
food “plants 2. == 2 hs ae ee poe eee ee ee
UNS WS OMe Gea dese CULE TS = a nee arene ene

hibernation —__—_ Pe Le A Sere: ries eee Fe ee

MISTORYLAaSs DeSt= = == ae 2 = Bes oo Seen eas POE:
injury, nature and extent____________ SA es
insect: enemys =2 5-2. eee ee eee ee eee
insecticides used in experimentation _______
Apu bany oyna = ees 1 ge, 5 ea ea PRE ag pp
like MniStonys22= sa Se Se eee =

Methods tor study222 22222 a eee
remedies _______ ig RSE Ey RAS ee ee
SPECCLES mm Falken et OTe tee eae ee ee
Sprayiie, -COSis2 === Se a ee ee ee

wheat. (See Luthrips tritici.)

ToOHACCO AECCELIONS LASAIMS te LOW AG COM VkTe |) See ee
HNSEEH TEM SMMTES, mes SOU tne ee ee
not a food plant of Virips (avac 1m our, countty=—_ ==
presences 0f Anthoinnips wig ea ae eee
thrips. (See Thrips, tobacco, and Huthrips nicotiane.)

MOMATOs) PLESENCE _Ofe AWLEOGRIUD Sma UG Cima eee ee ee

Driphleps msiadiosus; enemy; Of TOVACCO mE See

Whale-ollisoap ay again SititOD a@e Ont lire pS Sees eee meme es ele ee

Wheat, food plant of Wolothrips bicolor and Anthothrips niger__________

tobacco thrips__—_- CPUS ee aE hee re ee

thrips. (See Huthrips tritici.)

“ White vein,” injury occasioned by tobacco thrips_—__-_-___-_____

NXanthium glabratum. (See Cocklebur. )

O

Se)

20-21
12

AT)
7-8
10-11
11

fi Ai, NS

Uses DEPARTMENT ~OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 66, Part I.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.

F,. H. CHITTENDEN,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

IssuED Marcnu 16, 1907.

ca ATS
WASHINGTON: Nii Museu. 2

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFI
19°07.

CONTENTS:

itherasparacus miner !(Agromyza simpler Loew). .-=--22.22.i22<5---225 2525

WESCHIDLIVGi 2 Sanaseee ms oie ces Sota cei
IO ISt RUD UCL ON Pega soe ass 2 ee
Historical and biological notes .......---
RECOM tay Unga ae nee See ee Sens woo ss
hemedialmeasures.s-2 = 22252 2-22.52 2
Notes on the asparagus beetles --....------.-

The common asparagus beetle ( Crioceris asparagi L.)....-.--------------

Rene Ces atte a= a eh See

The twelve-spotted asparagus beetle ( Crioceris 12-punctata 1 DS) ee ae a re

Lees ERA

Bigs Agnromiyze sumplet: Bly. -- - sea -s-5 5

2. Agromyza simplex: Larva, pupa, work

TIONS:

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 66, Part I. Issued March 16, 1907,

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK: CROPS.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
( Agromyza simplex Loew. )

The stalks of asparagus are frequently attacked by insects, ana in
recent years have been reported considerably injured by the larva or
maggot of a minute black fly to which the name asparagus miner has
been given. The larva mines under the epidermis of the stalk, and
when it has transformed to the puparium or ‘‘ flaxseed” stage the thin
outer skin becomes more or less ruptured and the presence of the
insect is easily detected. It operates more abundantly near the base
of the stalks and penetrates below the surface of the ground to a
depth of 7 or 8 inches. During the year 1906 this species attracted
considerable attention by its abundance in some of the principal
asparagus-growing sections of New England and it bids fair to become
a pest of considerable importance. It was first noticed on asparagus

Fig. 1.—Agromyza simplex; Fly, dorsal view at left, lateral view at right. Highly magnified
(or ginal).

in 1896, ten years earlier than the present writing, prior to which
time nothing was known of its habits. It is a native species and eyi-
dently restricted to asparagus as a food plant. Until the year 1906
it had not been recognized as doing injury to cutting beds, although
attack had been observed in various sections. The mines of the laryze
about and below the bases of the stalks are frequently so abundant
that they have the effect of girdling, so that the injured stalks can be
readily pulled from the ground.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The parent insect is a two-winged fly (fig. 1), metallic black, with
large prominent head and eyes, and clear wings, the wing expanse
being about one-sixth of an inch (4 mm.).

bo

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The larva (fig. 2, @) is about one-fifth of an inch long and milk-
white in color. Like other maggots, it is footless, large at the

eg posterior extremity, and tapering
Eo toward the head.
Saas The puparium (fig. 2, d, 2) is not
unlike the ‘‘ flaxseed” of the perni-
cious Hessian fly, with which it has
been aptly compared. At a little dis-

ae tance, also, it suggests a Lecanium
ea as scale. This stage is remarkable be-
Gt ©) cause of its peculiar flattened and
curved position, as seen from the

Fic. 2.—Agromyza simplex: a, larva, lateral

view; ), thoracic spiracles; ¢c, anal spiracles; side. It is red in color, and meas-
d, puparium from side; e, same from above; ures about 8.5 mm. 1n length and

Se nate oul ae ung
tion; a-e, much enlarged; /, slightly reduced The egg has not been observed.
cea This species belongs to the dipter-
ous family Agromyzide, and was described by Loew in 1861,¢ the
locality being given as ‘*‘ Middle States.”

DISTRIBUTION.

In its injurious occurrences this species appears to be limited to the
eastern United States, from New England to Tennessee. From ayail-
able data it is quite obvious, however, that it may be destructive over a
considerable territory, including a large portion of Massachusetts and
Connecticut, Long Island, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania,
and Tennessee. As it is recorded from New Jersey, it is probably
injurious there, although no reports of injury in that State have
reached this office. In time it will doubtless attract attention in inter-
mediate points and in States farther north and west. It has also
appeared in asparagus beds in California.

HISTORICAL AND BIOLOGICAL NOTES.

In May, 1897, and afterwards this fly was observed in abundance by
the writer on terminal shoots of asparagus, particularly at Cabin
John, Md. Two weeks later no more flies were seen, but June 26
they reappeared and were then usually seen 7m copula. It was sur-
mised at the time that this second appearance indicated the first new
generation of the year and its abundance on asparagus seemed to show
that it livedin some manner at the expense of that plant. Examination
of asparagus plants at that time, however, failed to show attack. The
facts which have just been narrated were published in 1898.?

“Diptera Americ septentrionalis indigena, Centuria octava 84, p. 160.
> Bul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. 8: Dept. Agric., p. 62, 1898.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER. 3

In 1900 we received complaint of injuries in the Distriet of Columbia,
and from Knoxville, Tenn., and in the meantime the species came
under the observation of Mr. F. A. Sirrine, who has stated” that work
was first observed in asparagus fields on Long Island in 1896. This
statement is made in a bulletin of six pages, which represents all that
was known of the species at that time.

Late in September, 1900, word was received from Mr. Frederic
Voigt, Tennallytown, D. C., of injury to the stalks of asparagus on
his and a neighboring truck farm. When the writer visited the
field, however, although injury was apparent on the outer skin of
some stalks, no living specimens could be obtained, only the dried
puparia being in evidence at this time. October 2 of the same year,
Mr. Samuel M. Bain, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn., sent
a stalk of asparagus showing the work of this miner upon the skin,
and, October 27, specimens of the dried puparia.

February 18, 1901, Mr. T. Miles Brous, Bustleton, Philadelphia, Pa.,
wrote that this insect, which he accurately described, seemed to cause
much greater trouble than the common asparagus beetle. A neighbor
had lost two or three new beds of asparagus on account of its ravages.

By the writer’s direction, Mr.*F. C. Pratt visited a large truck farm
at Brookland, D. C., where asparagus was one of the main crops, June
18, 1902. Asparagus was still being cut for market, but volunteer
plants were growing here and there in fields of corn, cantaloupe, and
potatoes, between rows. A few flies were seen on terminal shoots of
asparagus that showed wilting, and many volunteer plants were found
badly infested, most individuals having transformed to pup.
Although stems break off just below the ground, the entire colony of
insects below that point is left with sufficient moisture and nourish-
ment for their maintenance. The puparia were present in great
numbers underneath the outer skin of the root, and as many as nine
puparia were counted in a space only an inch long on one stalk. The
stalks below the point of injury appeared to be perfectly sound.
Larve also were found in rotting stalks that broke off just below ground.

During 1905 Mr. Ralph E. Smith reported this species as becoming
abundant in California, though not of any great importance at that
time. His description of the insects’ manner of work leaves no doubt
as to the identity of the species.’

RECENT INJURY.

During September, 1906, Messrs. J. B. Norton and A. D. Shamel,
of the Bureau of Plant Industry, furnished stems of asparagus from
Concord, Mass., showing severe infestation by this species, many

@ Bul. 189, N. Y. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 277, Geneva, 1900.
>Bul. 165, Univ. of Cal. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 96, 1905.

4 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

puparia being present under the mined outer skin. In the neighbor-
hood of Concord, a very important asparagus-growing region where
hundreds of acres are devoted to this crop, the infestation was practi-
cally absolute, the insect being found even as abundantly as the common
asparagus beetle, being present wherever rust was found, as also where |
no rust was present. The specimens submitted were about the average
as regards the degree of infestation, some plants showing injury 7
inches below the surface.

Severe injury was reported on the farms of Mr. Frank Wheeler and
Mr. Charles W. Prescott, at Concord, Mass. The growers in that
region had never noticed this insect until Mr. Shamel’s examination
showed that its injuries were extensive. Later Mr. Shame! reported
finding infestation in every field and patch of asparagus which he
visited in Massachusetts and Connecticut, particularly at Suffield,
Granby, and Hartford, Conn., and he believed attack to be widespread.

October 26, 1906, Mr. Ralph E. Smith wrote, by request, that the
conditions under which this asparagus miner was found in abundance
in the yellow stalks of asparagus in California, as reported by him in
an article on Asparagus Rust Control,“ had prevailed for two or three
years. The insect was always very abundant at the base of these yellow,
dying stalks, although the injury was attributed to the ‘‘centipede,”
reported as wireworms on a previous occasion.”

REMEDIAL MEASURES.

Witn our present knowledge of the life economy of this species, two
methods of control suggest themselves as of greatest value, and it may
be that they will prove all that is necessary under ordinary conditions.

(1) In spring permit a few volunteer asparagus plants to grow as a
trap crop, to lure the fly from the main crop or the cutting beds for
the deposition of her eggs. After this has been accomplished the trap
crop should be destroyed by pulling the infested plants and burning
them with their contained puparia. The time to pull the plants will
vary according to locality and somewhat according to season also.
The second and third week in June would be about the right time in
and near the District of Columbia. On Long Island this work should
be done a week or two later. In the northernmost range of this
insect—for example, in Massachusetts—the last of June and the first
of July would probably be a suitable time.

(2) The second generation can be destroyed in like manner by pull-
ing old infested asparagus stalks as soon as attack becomes manifest
and promptly burning them also.

aBul. 172, Univ. Cal. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 21; 2 Bul. 165, 1. ¢.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER. 5

If this work were carefully done over a considerable area, it would
leave little necessity for other methods, since it would do away with
these insects in the vicinity and leave few to be dealt with another
season; unless, indeed, this insect has an alternate food plant. The
cooperation of neighboring asparagus growers and thoroughness are
essential for success.

This method will operate also against the rust which is now present
in many fields infested by the miner.

‘

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.

\

Since the publication of the writer’s general article on the asparagus
beetles in the Yearbook for 1896,“ many notes on their distribution and
destructive occurrences have been published. Some additional data
were published soon afterward.? The following brief review of the
subject is submitted as a sequel to those articles and a summary of the
further dissemination of these pests in a decade of years.

THE COMMON ASPARAGUS BEETLE.
(Crioceris asparagi L. )

The predictions made by the writer in regard to the future distri-
bution of the common asparagus beetle have been completely fulfilled
as regards its western spread, although it has not as yet been reported
as far south as Kentucky. Mr. J. G. Sanders, however, informs the
writer that it has been established about Columbus, Ohio, since 1903,
and Mr. Charles Dury, Cincinnati, Ohio, reported this species at Indian
Hill, about 7 miles from that city, onasparagus beds in 1905. Hundreds
were observed during June. The customary injury was noticed, and
plants appeared as though scorched with fire. In 1897 the species
was observed to have continued its spread westward along Lake Erie,

and was then known in nine counties in northeastern Ohio. The fol- -

lowing year it was first noticed in western Virginia. In 1898 also it
was reported to have been present at Benton Harbor, Mich., since
1896. By 1899 it had made its appearance in Canada, accompanied by
the twelve-spotted species, in the Niagara River region.

[t is interesting to note that in 1900 the present species, which had
been rapidly increasing its range in the East, including New York,
after occurring in injurious numbers in Maryland, was apparently
totally destroyed by the hot spell of July and August that occurred
in the District of Columbia and neighboring parts of Virginia and
Maryland; whence the conclusion that this condition prevailed to a
considerably larger extent than came to the writer’s personal notice.
In 1901 Dr. James Fletcher noted that the species, though present in
the Niagara district, had not increased to the extent that was feared.
It had spread to Guelph, Ontario, that year, and did much damage
about St. Catharines. In 1904 its occurrence around Toronto was

aYearbook U.S. Dept. Agric. f. 1896 (1897), pp. 341-352.
> Bul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., pp. 54-59, 1898.

a

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES. f(
noticed. It was reported also 40 miles west of Chicago, Ill. It has
become very generally distributed in asparagus: growing districts in
New York State, and has reached Glens Falls, which approximates its
northernmost limit in this country. In 1905 we received complaint
of this insect as a pest in Illinois, at Park Ridge, and of its occurrence
about Chicago. Reports from Michigan showed that it had been
present there in 1904 in the vicinity of Ada, about 10 miles from
Grand Rapids, and that it was a pest in that Weinity.

Although the data given above indicate that the species is now well
distributed throughout the Upper Austral region, for some reason its
occurrence in Indiana has not yet come to our knowledge; neverthe-
less although there are naturally many uninvaded localities, it is
undoubtedly established in that State, most probably near Lake
Michigan.

As an example of its manner of distribution, it might be noted that
in May, 1905, the beetle was found for the first time. in Warrenton,
Fauquier County, Va., a little farther inland than it had ever been
noticed in that section. Yet this species has been permanently estab-
lished in the adjoining Alexandria County for many years.

August 8, 1905, Mr. Ralph E. Smith wrote of the occurrence of this
species in California, stating that during two seasons it had been very
abundant at Bouldin Island, the principal asparagus center of that
region. As Mr. Smith was familiar with this insect and its occur-
rence on the Atlantic coast, there is little doubt that his identification
is correct. In the winter of 1904 to 1905 Bouldin Island was flooded
and remained under water for overa year. It had just been reclaimed
and there were no signs of the beetles. There is, therefore, a possibility
that the insect was exterminated in that region, and this includes the
State, if the occurrence of the species was only local.

The dying out of this asparagus beetle in small localities where it
has not become thoroughly established is not without precedent, as its
recorded occurrence at Rock Island, Ill., many years ago, has been
verified by specimens now in a Chicago museum, properly labeled
as collected there by the late A. Bolter, an experienced collector of
Coleoptera. Indeed, it would seem that few vegetable-feeding insects
are more subject to extermination in a limited locality not contiguous
to one also infested than is the present species.

October 26, 1906, Mr. Ralph E. Smith, at the writer’s request,
reported the status of this species in California. He wrote that during
the summer he found the beetles again, and that they were very abun-
dant in fields near Oakley, Cal. It could not be stated that the insect
was of general occurrence in the State, but apparently it existed only
in a few scattered colonies. As previously reported the colony at
Bouldin Island appears to have ‘been exterminated by flood, and

8 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the Oakley occurrence was the first that Mr. Smith had noted since.
In most of the asparagus acreage of the State the insect was not yet
present.

Mr. Franklin Sherman, jr., has kept a careful record of the occur-
rence of this species in North Carolina, and informed the writer, on
the occasion of a visit in 1906, that it is common in the east-central
part of the State in the trucking belt, and especially abundant at
Raleigh, Wake County, Goldsboro, Wayne County, and Warsaw,
Duplin County.

In order to make the present account of the known distribution of
this species as complete as possible, inquiry was made of the official
entomologists of the States of Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska,
and Minnesota, all of whom reported that the occurrence of this spe-
cies in their States had not been brought to their attention. Mr. James
G. Moore, however, assistant in horticulture at the University of Wis-
consin, Madison, Wis., stated that the asparagus beetle had been found
in Wisconsin, but he had no special data on its distribution.

REMEDIES.

With regard to remedies good results have followed the experimental
use of arsenate of lead. This insecticide has come into very general
favor in recent years, and in the correspondence of this office we have
for some time advised its employment against most leaf-feeding beetles,
like the asparagus beetles. In Connecticut Dr. W. E. Britton “has made
a practical test of this remedy on asparagus plants, spraying them from
all four sides in succession because of the slight leaf exposure as com-
pared with most other plants. The day following treatment (June 4)
many dead beetles and larvee were found on and under the plants. A
few had survived and were feeding, but ten days later only a few
living larve could be found, and the beetles did not again become
abundant on the plants during the summer. The same amount of
good might be accomplished with scarcely greater expense by spray-
ing from opposite sides and repeating just before the time for the last
generation to develop and in time to check the beetles before they go
into winter quarters.

In Pennsylvania Prof. H. A. Surface,’ in a series of experiments
with Paris green and arsenate of lead, applied to asparagus plants the
first week of June, 1905, found that not more than 50 per cent of the
insects were killed when Paris green and lime were used. With lead
arsenate 90 per cent were killed, while in one experiment, by the addi-
tion of resin soap, which is used as an addition to an insecticide to

a Rept. Conn. Agric. Exp. Sta. f. 1903 (1904), pp. 275, 276.
> Monthly Bulletin, Div. of Zool., Pa. State Dept. Agric., Vol. IV, May, 1906, p. 8.

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES. 9

enable the poison to adhere better to smooth plants, 100 per cent of
the insects were killed on the 50 plants treated. In this case the
arsenate of lead was used at the rate of about | pound to 24 gallons of
water, and 23 pounds of soap were added.

Arsenate of lead has been used with satisfactory results on asparagus
at the rate of 1 pound in 16 to 24 gallons of water. Additional experi-
ments are necessary to ascertain the exact amount of the poison that can
be used economically to produce the best effect. In Professor Surface’s
experiments evidently only a single spray was applied.

THE TWELVE-SPOTTED ASPARAGUS BEETLE.
(Crioceris 12-punctata L. )

Nearly every year since 1896, when the ‘distribution of the twelve-
spotted asparagus beetle was recorded by the writer,” the appearance
of this species has been noted in new localities in the United States,
until it is now well distributed westward and especially northward.

In 1898 Dr. J. B. Smith stated that it then occurred throughout the
State of New Jersey ‘‘south of the shale from the Atlantic coast to the
Delaware.” The following year (1899) it was recorded by Dr. E. P.
Felt from different counties in New York, and as far west as Buffalo.
In some places the species was abundant, while in some near-by locali-
ties it could not be found, showing that it was still locally distributed
through New York. It was afterwards recorded present in Albany,
Batavia, Leroy, Syracuse, Riverhead, Oswego, Center, Glendale,
Richmond Hill, Penfield, Elmira, Geneva, Ithaca, and about Brooklyn,
N. Y. It was also stated to occur in the Niagara district in Canada as
far back as Hamilton, Ontario.

An interesting point in regard to the occurrence of asparagus beetles
in the Niagara peninsula was that the two species appeared to have
arrived almost simultaneously in that region, but that the twelve-
spotted form was by far the more common one. In after years dif-
ferent observers noted its further spread in Canada, commenting upon
the fact that it led the common species in becoming diffused by natural
means. By 1902 it had appeared in Connecticut, at New Haven, and
later in other parts of that State.

Since some writers on these asparagus beetles have overlooked the
author’s second article’ it may be well to mention that facts additional
to those printed in the writer’s original article are given therein,
including a description and illustration of the egg and its manner of
deposition, and what is practically a complete account of the life his-
tory of the species, the insect being found to develop and to feed where
possible almost exclusively on the berry, although the beetles attack
young asparagus shoots before the berries appear.

“ Yearbook U. 8. Dept. Agric. f. 1896 (1897), pp. 350-351.
> Bul. 10, Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., pp. 57-59, 1898.

10 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The young larva.—The freshly hatched larva has not hitherto been
described. It may be briefly described as follows:

Head rounded, nearly twice as wide as long as seen from above; thoracic plates
distinctly separated at the middle, with the intervening space yellow; legs infuscated,
clear whitish at sutures. General color very pale yellowish, nearly white, and the
surface much wrinkled. Length 1 mm., width 0.35 mm.

O

a

o

)
Vo wer ant MENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 66, Part II.

L.. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.
THE WATER-CORESS LEAF-BEETLE.

BY

ea. aE DEIN:

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

Issuep Aprit. 23, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE,
ONO.

\QQ CAA

CONTENT Se

Page
The water-cress sowbug (Jancasellus brachyurus Harger) ~~~ - 11
PY CSCI LUC ys as Se oe es Se Oe oe Se ee Se 11
Reportsiof mmjurious occurrence =] ie ee aot. See ee 12
Mie EHOG SHO fea COULEO lean Poa eee Se 8 ee eee 12
The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phedon wruginosa Suffr.) ~~~ 16
HTN) WISI OU SR OCCULR ECD CO fa cate eo ee ee 2 16
IDSA ONO) Se SEA es he eels Se ee ee Sere 16
DSSS UL TS ee ne eee = Oe en et Oe ee ee ee oS ee Be. 18
EabitsrofL thisvandia related! Speciess. =.= = 255s os 1S
NLGEHOUSROleGO MLO] ae ee es. Se ee eee ek 19
EPEUST RATIONS.
Page.
Fic. 8. The water-cress sowbug (J/ancasellus brachyurus)—~~~----------- 12
4. Cross section of cress pond showing arrangement for avoiding
damace py waler-cress" SOwDUS ss = = ee a ee eee 13
5. The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phadon ceruginosa): larva, pupa.
CVG LU Re Seniesa tere ape ep tN eee Ce ea A ee rary rye Te ee ae ae 17

U.S. D. A., B. BE. Bul. 66, Part IT. Issued April 23, 1907.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.

(Manecasellus brachywrus Harger. ) :

During the past three years this isopod has attracted very consid-
erable attention because of its occurrence in troublesome numbers in
water cress (Nasturtium officinale) grown for market in portions of
Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The species is purely
aquatic, thus differing from our common dooryard sowbugs, which,
although most abundant in moist locations, are strictly terrestrial. It
belongs to an entirely different family, the Asellidz, which contains
three genera, mostly fresh-water forms, inhabitants of streams, wells,
pools, and lakes.

DESCRIPTIVE.

This species is so distinct from the more common sowbugs (QOnis-
cide) that a brief description will suffice. Its general appearance
is shown, dorsal view, in figure 3. The body is much depressed, and
the legs are long and strong. Seen from the side, it is decidedly
shrimplike. The peculiar structure of the antenne may be noticed
in the illustration. They terminate in jong flagella, composed of
many joints. When mature this sowbug attains a length of 13 or 14
millimeters, or a little upward of half an inch, and is a little more
than twice as long as wide, and gray in color. This creature is not an
insect, but a crustacean, and therefore classed with crayfish and crabs.
A detailed description is given by Miss Richardson," who briefly men-
tions McKees Spring, Gaylord, and Lexington, Va., as localities
where this sowbug was “ reported injurious to water cress.”

By recent correspondence we have obtained necessary information
in regard to the habits and manner of operation of this sowbug, and
we have also been successful in ascertaining what promises to be a
very perfect remedy for the pest in its occurrence in streams and in
spring water. It appears to affect cress only below the surface of the
water, attacking the roots and lower leaves, and cutting off the stems

@ Monograph of the Isopods of North America. By Harriet Richardson. Bul.
54, U. S. National Museum, Washington, 1905, pp. 411-412, figs. 460-461.
11

12 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

near the bottom, causing bunches of the plant to float. In portions
of streams where these sowbugs have been found most abundantly
they are frequently seen crawling in a thick mass at the bottom.
They feed, so far as known, exclusively on cress, not being reported
as attacking any other form of vegetation.

REPORTS OF INJURIOUS OCCURRENCES.

This sowbug has been observed as a pest since 1902. Our first
report of its pernicious habits was made in 1904, when we received
specimens through Mr. J. W. Bryan, Anacostia, D. C., from Hall-
town, W. Va., where it was very injurious to water cress.

In March, 1905, Mr. Powell Arnette reported injury at Gaylord,
Va., to cress grown in spring water. The
sowbugs were always found in the water
and did not attack cress above the surface.
After destroying the last vestige of cress
in one of his ponds they remained on the
bottom “a foot deep,” crawling about on
the mud.

During 1906 (June 18) Mr. John H.
Reed, Carlisle, Pa., wrote in regard to this
species and its destructive work on water
cress in his locality. Specimens were re-
ceived August 11. The sowbug was ob-
Fig. 8The watercress sowbue Served principally on the roots and lower

(Mancasellus brachyurus). En- leaves, crawling up along the stem and

epen (an eps cutting off the leaves. August 10 Mr.
George C. Jordan, Washington, D. C., sent specimens from Basic
City, Va., stating that this “ water bug” was devouring his cress
beds, and, since a million or more were colonized on the plants, there
would be no crop at the rate they were reproducing. When the
plants were lifted the sowbugs were observed to drop from them.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Three ways of controlling this species are suggested. The first
and most important consists in a method of growing the water cress
so as to eliminate injuries by the sowbug. The second falls under
the head of direct remedies, and none of these has as yet given sat-
isfactory results. The third consists in the use of fish or fowls as
destroyers. This last means of eradicating the pest has not yet had
a fair trial.

The following description of a successful method of disposing of
the cress sowbug has been placed at our disposal by Messrs. B. Bryan

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG. 13

& Son, who are practical cress growers and have had several years’
experience with the pest:

A METHOD OF GROWING WATER CRESS TO DISPOSE OF THE SOWBUG.

The damage done by the sowbug to water cress has made it our greatest
enemy in cress growing, and only after fighting it for four years have we suc-
ceeded in finding a way to keep down its numbers so as to be sure of a crop.
As cress is ordinarily grown—in lakes or streams of spring water anywhere
from 6 inches to 8 feet in depth—it seems impracticable to apply any insecti-
cide. At first we tried to catch the bugs with wire-netting traps placed where
the whole stream of water had to pass through them, but the bugs remained
among the cress, and we caught only about 20 per cent.

Later, in using copper sulphate to kill moss in the ¢ress, we found that it
also killed the sowbugs, snails, etc., when applied freely. Further experiments,
however, proved that bluestone could not be applied in deep running water any
better than the insecticides previously tried, and when applied in shallow or
still water it injured the cress.

The method we are employing at present to fight the sowbug is largely a
matter of arrangement of cress beds (see fig. 4), and can be used only where
the bottoms of the beds can be graded and drained or where level land adjoins

AOD bien (et ALI
>

WATER LEVEL CRESS

7

—JITROUGH

Fig. 4.—Cross section of cress pond showing arrangement for avoiding damage by the
water-cress sowbug.

the source of the water supply. We dug long trenches in level land, making
them 16 feet wide and about 15 inches deep. Lengthwise they were graded to
give a fall of 3 inches in 100 feet, and crosswise to make the center of the
trench several inches deeper than the sides. In the center and running the full
length of the trench a trough made of three 10-inch boards was sunk below the
bottom of the trench in such a way that all of the water might be drained out
of the trench through it. Then, with the upper and jower ends of the trench
and trough arranged to be opened or closed, the trench could be filled or emptied
at will and the flow’ of water regulated up to 8 inches in depth over the cress.
Of course fertile soil was put in the trenches and the cress could be planted
either before or after the water was turned in.

With cress beds arranged as above, manipulation to dispose of the sowbugs
is simple. By cutting off the water supply and allowing the water to pass out
at the lower end of the trench, the sowbugs-will collect in the trough, following
the receding water, as they can live only in water. No little puddles should
remain among the cress, as the bugs will collect in them instead of in the trough.
It will be found necessary, also, to use boards to walk on in gathering the cress,
as prints of one’s boots in the beds would make holes for the bugs to shelter in.
The bugs do not move until nearly all of the water is drawn out of the trench.
Thus they are collected in a small amount of water in the trough and can then
be readily killed with a liberal amount of bluestone, either solid or in solution.

14 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

To make the work thorough, water should not be turned into the trench again
for twelve or twenty-four hours, in which time the few bugs left among the
cress stems will die or find their way to the trough. The trenches can be cleared
of bugs in warm weather as frequently as desired, but less danger is done the
cress crop if the work is done just after gathering the cress.

The same method of disposing of the sowbugs could be used in greenhouses
in the winter, but cress grown in the open air could not be exposed in freezing
weather, making the remedy inapplicable in cold weather.

We have riot used water in these trenches deeper than 10 inches, and are not
able to say how a larger or more rapidly flowing supply of water would act,
nor have we grown winter ‘cress in them, as our water supply is insufficient
for that purpose.

OTHER REMEDIES.

About the only other remedies which we have been able to suggest
are the use of a substance, such as sulphate of copper or chlorid of
lime, which might be placed in the water to destroy the pest. As
the former has already been tested by Messrs. B. Bryan & Son (see
page 13), it need not be mentioned further.

Mr. John H. Reed states that a grower at Healing Springs, Va.,
has a remedy consisting of a poisonous material which is placed in
the water, but he does not know the ingredients nor whether there
would be danger to stock drinking the water below the spring. He
writes also of the possible use of chlorid of lime. A tank of bleach
composed principally of chlorid of lime ran into a creek at Mount
Holly Springs, Pa., killed everything that was living in that stream
for about half a mile downward, but did not poison stock that drank
the water. The bleach came from a paper-mill tank which had
burst. If chlorid of lime is tested it should be used on a very small
scale at first to note the effect on plant life. Tt is apt to be harmful
to trout and other fish present.

Mr. Reed also suggested the employment of ducks to destroy the
pest, but this would necessitate the abandonment of cress culture for
a season, as the ducks would injure the condiment both by eating it
and by fouling the water.

Among other remedies, we have recommended draining off the
water where possible and exposing the sowbugs to the drying effects
of the sun.

FISHES AS A POSSIBLE MEANS OF DESTROYING THIS ISOPOD.

In response to inquiry, the following information was received
from the Bureau of Fisheries, through Mr. Lawrence O. Murray,
Acting Secretary, Department of Commerce and Labor, in regard to
the fishes which might be found useful in the destruction of this
aquatic isopod in its occurrence on water cress:

Among the fishes which would probably prove most useful for this purpose
and with which it is suggested that the Department may wish to experiment

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG. LD

are the fresh-water killifishes PMundulus notatus, ’. diaphanus, and EF. dispar.
The first occurs from Michigan to Alabama, Mississippi. and Texas, and is
rather common in small lowland ponds. The second is found from Maine to
North Carolina in river mouths, in the Great Lakes, and in practically all of
the small lakes in the upper Mississippi Valley. The third occurs in smaller
lakes and ponds from northern Ohio to Illinois and south to Mississippi.
Specimens of each of these species could be obtained at any one of several
small lakes in the northern part of Indiana.

It is probable that some of the catfishes might also be useful in this connec-
tion, and it is suggested that it might be worth while to try one or more of
the small species known as “mad Toms,’ belonging to the genus Schilbeodes.
One or more species of this genus can be found in almost any small, sluggish
stream in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The writer believes that carp should prove of value in keeping
down this cress sowbug, there being one drawback, however, that the
‘arp must be watched to see that they do not develop too rapidly
and that they do not attack the cress or make the water muddy. Cat-
fish have been tried and found wanting in the case of the water-cress
leaf-beetle, which will be considered elsewhere (pp. 16-20).

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE.

(Phaedon wruginosa Suftr.)
INJURIOUS OCCURRENCE.

Among plant-feeding native insects which have recently appeared
in new roles is a little blackish leaf-beetle, Phadon wruginosa Suttr.,
which was reported for the first time as injurious to water cress
(Nasturtium officinale) in Pennsylvania, in 1903.

During September Mrs. Hannah B. Hannum, Brandywine Summit,
Pa., sent larve and adults of this species, with statement that they
were devastating her water-cress pond. Both larve and beetles fed
chiefly on the lower side of the leaves. In confinement they con-
tinued feeding, attacking the stalks also. The larve all reached
development about the same time, being fully matured September 11
and 12, on the last of these two days crawling about the rearmg jar
and ceasing to feed. The pupal period was not observed, but it
probably lasted ten days or a fortnight, as the weather was cool.
The beetles continued for some time in our rearing cages, frequently
pairing, but depositing no eggs.

August 19, 1904, Mrs. Hannum sent additional specimens of this
species in the beetle and nearly grown larval stages. It was noticed
that the beetles did not swim rapidly, but steadily, and they were
seemingly not discomposed by being somewhat out of their natural
element. It seems probable that they fly from plant to plant, and
like most beetles undoubtedly are able to float for many hours, and
perhaps even swim short distances until they reach a landing place.
September 13 our correspondent sent still another lot of this species,
mostly beetles, but a number of larvee were included.

Specimens of the larvee of a syrphus fly accompanied this sending
and probably fed at times on the small larvee of the beetle.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The beetle—This species belongs to the tribe Chrysomelini of the
family Chrysomelidx. It is classified in our publications on the
Coleoptera of America north of Mexico with Plagiodera, but Eu-
ropean systematists place allied forms in the genus Phedon Latr.,
which now comprises seven species occurring in our country. They
are very small semiglobose forms. The outline is oval, with the thorax

16

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE. LN
narrowed anteriorly and the apex margined. The elytra have eight
punctate strie, with a short subsutural and submarginal row of
punctures. The third joint of the tarsi is emarginate apically.

The present species measures a scant one-eighth of an inch in
length (3 mm.), is shining bronzy black, and has the elytral intervals
apparently smooth, but in reality faintly rugulose when highly mag-
nified, while the thorax is microscopically reticulate. The original
description appeared in 1858.“

The egg.—The eggs have not come under observation. They prob-
ably resemble those of the European Ph. armoraciw L., described by
Fryer as “ elongated oval and of a dark orange color.”

Fic. 5.—The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phaedon wruginosa) : a, adult; Bb, larva, from above;
c, same, from side; d, pupa. Enlarged twelve times (original).

The larva——The larva appears somewhat like that of a related
genus, Galerucella, only that it is very much smaller. It is about
three or four times as long as wide, depending upon whether it
is somewhat contracted or fully extended. The head is subtruncate
in front, with the antenne lateral (in preserved specimens). The
head is shining black, and the remainder of the body very dark brown
or brownish black relieved by lighter areas between the segments.
The first thoracic segment is a little wider than the head: the sec-
ond considerably wider than that, and the third widest, being nearly
as wide as the first two abdominal segments. The second abdominal
is widest, and at the same time the widest part of the body. The
surface is sparsely covered with long hairs placed on piliferous tu-
bercles, which are arranged some distance apart, as shown in figure
5, b. The tubercles on the sides of the dorsum are sometimes very
prominent, and the larva is able to extend these, possibly, at will.
From the abdominal segments large tubercular sections bearing hairs
at their summit extend on each side. The anal segment is pale, like
the ventral surface, which bears dark piliferous tubercles. Length,
5 mm.; width, 1.2—1.5 mm.

a Wnt. Zeitung, Stettin, Vol. x1x, pp. 395, 596, 1858.

18 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The pupa—The pupa is illustrated by figure 5, d, which will
answer better than a verbal description. The color is yellow, and the
length is slightly less than that of the adult.

The distribution of this species is probably moderately wide and

additional study must be given this subject. At present we know of
i occurrence in the District of Columbia, in be Seen! and
probably in West Virginia.

LITERATURE.

Brief mention of the occurrence of this leaf-beetle as an enemy of
water cress in Pennsylvania in 1893 was made by the writer,’ but
Mr. Frederick Knab, of this oflice, mentioning the same species as
Plagiodera viridis, has recorded » its occurrence in great abundance
upon water cress near Springfield, Mass., in 1902. The identity of
the species in question has been verified by the comparison of speci-
mens, and Mr. Knab’s record was evidently made on the assumption
of Crotch ¢ that wruginosa was merely a variety of viridis.

HABITS OF THIS AND A RELATED SPECIES.

We can not at the present writing give an approximate statement
of the life history of Phadon wruginosa, and hence must depend on
what is known of the related Ph. armoraciv, which is common to both
continents.?. This letter has evidently been introduced into this
country, but its habits have apparently not been studied here. It 1s
known in England as the blue beetle and mustard beetle,’ and is of
considerable importance locally, in some seasons ravaging entire
fields of mustard, cress, cabbage, and kohlrabi. It passes the winter
as adult, reappearing in spring on cruciferous plants. Fryer stated
that in the three years prior to 1881 the Isle of Ely, England, suffered
from the ravages of this species, entire fields being injured. Mustard
was attacked at about the time of the formation of the seed pod and
after the stalks were stripped nearly to the cuticle the beetles trans-
ferred their attention to kohlrabi, which they completely consumed,
at first attacking the leaves and afterwards the bulbs, leaving nothing
but bare stalks.

The water-cress leaf-beetle is doubtless no exception to the general
rule among most Chrysomelide and other species of Phedon, in
laying its eggs on the under side of the leaves. Both larve and

a Ybk. U. S. Dept. Agric. f. 1903 (1904), p. 564; 6 Entomological News, March,
1903, p. 89+ ¢ Croteh, Proc. Acad. Phila., 1873, pp. 54, 55; @Phedon armoracie
L. syn.: Plagiodera cochlearie Panz., Gyll.; Phadon betulew Wist. It is not
the same as cochleariw Fab. ¢ Fryer and others have given accounts of this
species in The Entomologist (Vol. XIV, pp. 44, 187, ete.).

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE. 19

adults attack the cuticle of the stem after feeding on the leaves, as
has been noticed in the case of armoraciw. FE. A. Fitch has ob-
served the partiality of the latter for water cress and other crueif-
ers which grow in watery places and mentions the destruction of an
entire crop of horseradish.

Kaltenbach “ records, according to Gyllenhall and his own obser-
rations, Veronica beccabunga, Cardamine amara, and Cochlearia
armoracia or horseradish as food plants, and states that the larva
undergoes metamorphosis in the earth, the pupa state lasting four-
teen days. Cornelius? is cited as having observed two generations,
the spring generation being found in May and June and the second in
September. Thomas H. Hart records the water starwort of England
(Callitricha verna) as another host plant. T. R. Billups,’ an ento-
mologist as well as truck grower, mentioning this species as Phadon
betula, states that it is “ one of the greatest insect pests the market
gardeners around London have to contend with.” Our American
species undoubtedly hibernate as adults and appear in early ‘spring
under boards and similar shelter.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

How to successfully control this insect under ordinary conditions
is quite a problem. Paris green was tried by our correspondent,
mixed with flour and sprinkled over the plants when the dew was on,
and this reduced the numbers of the insect somewhat. Owing to the
moist condition of the plants, however, the flour formed a paste
which stuck like glue, and it was therefore abandoned. Applied in
water it rolled off the plants. We were not infarmed if this appli-
‘ation was made with a spraying machine. If the plants were
sprayed lightly with a fine spray, it might answer, or, better, Paris
green dry with only 20 parts of flour, or plaster or air-slaked lime.
An arsenical should not be used within about a week of the time of
cutting the cress for market. In the case of Paris green there is
practically no danger of poisoning even if it were used later, as the
washing which is given the cress will carry away all perceptible
traces of the poison.

If conditions should be such that the pond or stream in which
water cress infested by this species is growing could be completely
overflowed, it would cause the insects to rise to the surface, and in the
ease of running water would wash them downstream. Flooding
alone might not entirely solve the problem, as these beetles are able to
survive considerable immersion.

When the cress is grown in sufliciently large bodies of water ex-

aPflanzenfeinde, p. 26; » Stett. Int. Zeit., 1863, p. 123; ¢'The Entomologist,
Vol. XIV, 1881, p. 236.

20 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

periments should be made with some of the fish mentioned on page 15
as possibly useful for destroying cress insects. Ducks might also be
found valuable. Catfish were tried, but without avail.

Mrs. Hannum has recently written that she attained the greatest
success by growing the water cress in running water which carried
the beetles away. In cold weather it. was necessary to plant in
houses where the cress did well until the coming of warm and dry
weather, when the beetles would sometimes clean it out almost en-
tirely, leaving only the roots. By tearing the cress out of the houses
and in ponds which were not exposed to running water she could
replant her beds, and hoped in time to get rid of the pest.

O

ee DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 66, Part III.

L. O. HOWARD, Batenploget and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORML
THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

FE. HH. @CHITTENDEN,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

Issu—ep AvaGust 31, 1907.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
LOOT:

992/

» £
CONTENTS.

Page

The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria Guen.) ~~. 21
[DOSS YOO (ene eS il SE SoS Se ae ay ey ee ee 21
LOS ZTEAM 09 UI CVKON a) ad IR PS RE DN a 2 ce ee ee ae 23
lerkorkaysiice Anes Di ass ee eee ee Ee A eee ee ee ee ae ee 24
np UD SNeGOlCesnOtes= 22 ap aL ee ee eee 25
SiO ReLOO Um lcUCSi seme age ey eS ae BL Ae ae 25
MHS INSee Smit mS COMy = | ae oes ee ee a ed 26
Rie UC INOS san Sake A NELS ec SO REA 8 Lore =e 26
VESEY OYSG DUS pc al ee cee ee AE Ce le ea ad 26
TENG UMOPEA PAO) OTs ga 5 a ae es SN A es ee eae ee ee el 27
The striped garden caterpillar (J/amestra legitima Grote) ~_~______ eon 28
fier Nemeth een ee Ses ee Fee ee ee we a 28

- RO er nL Oe ase Oe 8 et ge a ee 2
DHT CLETUS pment ae Oe 2 Bie a a ee 31
SHUUCTU TETANY Coe SLING oT iS a Pak ae eae ee eee ee ee ee oe
MiPtmngs Gr COU sess) 5 2 a 255 he ey Se AEE 32

ILLUSTRATIONS.
Page,
Fic. 6. The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria) : Moth, larva, and
NOU chee ce oe eo SS ey SS-b 22h See se StS - 22
7. The striped garden caterpillar (J/amestra legitima) : Moth, larva,
ROR CLNIO CL) clipe eee a ee ete Se ee Se ee 29
U1
‘

i! hi a.
1

U. S.D. A., B. BH. Bul. 66, Part HII. Issued August 31, 1907.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM.

(Cleora pampinaria Guen.)

A brownish spanworm has been observed by the writer during
recent years on asparagus in the District of Columbia in such numbers
as to indicate that it is especially attached to this crop, at least in
this region. In consideration of the fact that so few insects attack
asparagus, the accompanying account has been prepared. The spe-
cles appears to have attracted no attention since 1884," when it
was considered in relation to its appearance in cranberry bogs.
From material recently collected, several facts hitherto unrecorded
have been gained, and there are a number of unpublished notes of
the Bureau showing a tendency on the part of the species to become
omnivorous. At any rate it is not confined to cranberry, as the
name given above would imply, nor to strawberry, as might be in-
ferred from another name, “ brown strawberry spanworm,” which
has also been given it. The list of food plants which will pres-
ently be furnished shows a considerable range. Owing to the fact
that the insect has not often been observed concentrated on any single
crop, little mention of it has been made in literature by economic
writers. Cranberry is a favorite food plant, and is sometimes in-
jured to a considerable extent, especially in Massachusetts.

DESCRIPTIVE.

This insect belongs to the lepidopterous family Geometridae, the
larvee of which are well known under the common names of span-
worms, measuring-worms, inch-worms, and loopers.

The moth which produces this spanworm is quite variable in color
and markings. The average expanse of wing is from a little less than
an inch to upward of an inch and a fourth (22-32™™), but may
exceed this, attaining, according to Dr. A. S. Packard,’ a measurement
of an inch and a half. ‘The ground color of living specimens is pale

@The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the
CS land

appended bibliography, p. 27.
21

22 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

leaden gray, and of old mounted material a duller gray,-thickly dif-
fused with black and brown dots and other markings more or less con-
stant, forming irregular lines across both fore-wings and hind-wings.
On both there is a marginal regular scalloped black line and within
this a strongly dentate or zigzag white line. The general pattern of
the wings varies considerably from that shown in figure 6, a, which
represents the female. The color of the body is similar to that of the
wings. The first abdominal segment is white above.

The sexes can be readily distinguished by the antenne. Those of
the female are filiform and tessellated and those of the male rather
strongly pectinate, or feathered. The structure of the latter is shown
at e and f, figure 6.

“ Tt may be known,” says Packard, “ by the very distinct line at the
base of the abdo-
men, the basal
wing beyond be-
ine ws waneey
white, and the
underside of the
wings having a
broad marginal
shade, while the
third line on the
fore-wing is
deeply but quite
regularly sinuate
and near tie
costa acutely
dentate.”

Fic. 6.—The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria): a, Female moth; A number of
b, larva, dorsal view; c, larva, lateral yiew; d, pupa; e, male antenna;
f, enlarged jointsofsame. All enlarged; e, /, more enlarged (original).

synonyms are
credited to Cle-
ora pampinaria. It has indeed received five specific names. As three
of these were given by Guenée, it is of itself indicative of the varia-
tion of the moth. The lst follows:

Boarmia sublunaria Gn., Spec. & Gen., IX, 248 (1857); B. frugallaria Gn.,
Spec. & Gen., IX, 246 (1857); B. collecta Wlk., Cat. Brit. Mus., XXI, p. 397
(1860) ; Cleora tinctaria Wlk., Cat. Brit. Mus., XXI, p. 486 (1860) ; Boarmia
fraudulentaria Zeller, Verh. zool.-bot. Ges. Wien, XXII, p. 492 (1872) ; Cymato-
phora pampinaria Pack., Mon. Geom., p. 482 (1876).

The egg appears not to have been described.

The larva.—The larva resembles those of other geometrids in’ being
of elongate form, about nine times as long as wide, with the three
pairs of thoracic or front legs bunched closely together near the head,
and in having only two pairs of prolegs, or unjointed legs, at the

Ae ed

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. 23

opposite extremity. The color varies to a considerable extent from
mottled pale yellowish to brown, often with an olivaceous or greenish
tint. Those which have been recently captured in the District of
Columbia are reddish brown, mottled, streaked, and lined with lighter
yellowish, red, and black. The head is strongly marked with trans-
verse irregular black bands. The thoracic segments are marked
above by a pair of thin median longitudinal lines. The second
abdominal segment bears on the dorsal surface a pair of prominent,
widely separated, mostly black tubercles, but in some individuals
these are wanting. The penultimate segment also bears above a
smaller pair of black tubercles. The larva when full grown measures
en inch to upward of an inch and a fourth in length (25-33™™) and
the greatest diameter is about one-eighth of an inch (8™). The singu-
Jar construction of the legs, or rather the lack of the intermediate legs
usually present in caterpillars of other families, is the cause of the
peculiar motions of the spanworms in crawling about. in search of
food, which have given them their popular names. When in motion
a larva extends its body to full length, then brings the posterior legs
close to the anterior ones, causing the body to loop in the center.
The body is then stretched out again, these actions being repeated
alternately.

When this spanworm is in repose it attaches itself to the foliage—
for example, to the stem of asparagus—by means of its anal pair of
legs and stretches out its body rigidly and at an angle so that its
natural colors. harmonize with the foliage or with the landscape.
On this head Doctor Smith has remarked that on a section of cran-
berry bog on which this species is feeding the observer may stand in
the midst of thousands of them and see none until something starts
them into motion. ‘Then it appears almost as though the entire bog
were alive. As the spawnworms hang somewhat tenaciously to their
food plants, they are undoubtedly present frequently in numbers
without anyone being the wiser.

The half-grown larva is described by Doctor Forbes.‘

The pupa, shown, ventral view, in figure 6 at d, is of robust form,
hight greenish brown in color, and a little less than half an inch in
length (12™") and about a third of that (4™™) in width.

DISTRIBUTION.

The wide distribution of this insect is shown by the following list
of localities, based upon Doctor Packard’s list, where the authorities
for each locality are given: Maine; Amherst, Cape Cod, Cotuit,
Natick, Mass.; West Farms, Center, Albany, and Brewster, N. Y.;
Philadelphia, Pa.; Lansing, Mich.; Dayton, Ohio (Pilate); Glen-
coe, Nebr.; Cadet, Mo.; Centralia and elsewhere in Illinois; Wash-
ington and Brookland, D. C.; Georgia; Calhoun, Dawson, and De-

94 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

mopolis, Ala.; Lake Bearsford, Florida; Bastrop County and else-
where in Texas.

The above localities indicate a distribution ranging from the
transition hfe zone through the upper to the lower austral. The
occurrence of the species in Florida, Alabama, and Texas would
indicate that it is to be found throughout the Gulf region. The
insects observed by Glover were stated to appear in the Carolinas,
Georgia, and Florida in early October.

BIOLOGIC LITERATURE.

The spanworm under consideration was described under the name
of Boarmia pampinaria by Guenée in 1857.2 In 1876 Dr. A. S.
Packard gave a detailed description of the moth, with a consideration
of its distribution and remarks on the larva and pupa, the former
being stated to feed on pear.t° In 1881 Dr. G. H. French® had a
note on the larva observed feeding on willow and geranium; larve
transformed to pupz September 16 and October 2, and the imagoes
issued April 17 of the following year. During the year 1883 this
species was observed by Dr. J. B. Smith,’ then a temporary agent
of this office, doing injury at Cotuit, Mass. During that year the
spanworms were so abundant in the cranberry bogs in that vicinity
that their numbers could be compared only to the army worm
(Heliophila unipuncta Waw.). In the case in question they began in
a space about a rod square, devoured that, and spread in a direct
line across the bog. The number of moths that would have been
produced from these insects should they have been permitted to
transform was described as being “ frightful.” A rather full account
by Dr. S. A. Forbes followed in 1884,5 in which the statement was
made that the larva was found in midsummer feeding on leaves of
strawberry in southern [linois. Larvee obtained August 1 pupated
onthe 11th,and the moths emerged onthe 22d, giving eleven days as
the pupal stage at that season. Larve collected September 6, about
half grown, were believed to represent a second generation. The
larva of this species came under the observation of the writer on
asparagus first in 1897.1! In 1899 Doctor Lugger *? stated that the
caterpillars were found on apple and blackberry, and that there were
at least two generations annually.

As this is one of the commonest species of its genus, of wide dis-
tribution, and authentically determined as living on cotton, there
seems little doubt that it was the type of Glover’s account of “ the
larger spanworm,” figured and described in his accounts of insects
frequenting the cotton plant, published in 18561! and again in 1878.*
A curious blunder was made by M. D. Landon, who figured this
species as the “cotton caterpillar (Noctua xylina)” in 1865,? this
illustration being a crude copy taken from Glover’s first or 1856
account of this spanworm.

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. 25
UNPUBLISHED OFFICE NOTES.

June 5, 1879, we received from Mr. William Trelease, then at
Dawson, Ala., larve found feeding on cotton. June 12 a larva
kept under observation changed to pupa, and on June 26 the moth
issued, this individual having passed 14 days as pupa. The same
year the moth was reared on several occasions from material obtained
on red clover.in the District of Columbia by Messrs. Pergande and
Howard. June 28 the moth issued from the pupa. August 15 the
larva was observed feeding; changed to pupa August 25, and issued
as moth March 1 of the following year. August 29 the larva was
observed feeding; changed to pupa September 4, the moth issuing
March 22 of the next year.

February 6, 1880, we received from Lake Bearsford, Fla., from
Prof. J. H. Comstock, a larva obtained on orange.

There are also reared specimens of moths in the U. S. National
Museum bearing labels showing the rearing of moths and occurrence
of larve on different plants, as follows: On locust, May 6, 1893,
District of Columbia; hickory, November 24, 1894, Cadet, Mo., and
August 4 of the same year on pear, locality presumably the District
of Columbia. There is also a specimen labeled “ on guava,” proba-
bly from Florida.

August 6, 1904, specimens of this spanworm were received from
Calhoun, Ala., where they were found feeding on cotton and were
mistaken for the cotton leaf-worm (Alabama argillacea Hbn.). The
adult issued August 29. Larvee were about full-grown when received,
August 9, and it seems probable that they underwent a short stage
of estivation before transforming to pupe, as the pupal stage is less
than 20 days in midsummer.

During the first two weeks of October for several years larvae have
been observed on asparagus grown in the District of Columbia, the
species appearing in moderate numbers. The first moth that has
been reared from October-collected larvee appeared in January, and
others appeared in February. As this was in confinement the dates
were not natural ones.

LIST OF FOOD PLANTS.

It is, as previously remarked, owing to the omnivorous habit of this
species, causing a distribution of attack, that noticeable injury has
not been ascribed to it elsewhere than in cranberry bogs. It is com-
mon enough in the vegetable and truck garden, but not confined to
any particular place on the farm, occurring in orchards, on forest
and shade trees, and on other plants. The list of observed food plants
includes asparagus, strawberry, blackberry, ornamental geranium,
apple, pear, orange, willow, hickory, cranberry, honey locust, cotton,
clover, and guava. As a rule the larve confine themselves to the

26 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

foliage of these plants, but Glover states that they sometimes feed
upon the petals of the flowers of cotton, although doing litle harm
to the general crop.

THE INSECT’S LIFE HISTORY.

Our knowledge of the hfe history of this species is somewhat
incomplete. The repeated rearing of moths in early spring and the
occurrence of larvee in the latter part of June in Massachusetts as
recorded by Smith, as also in the District of Columbia and elsewhere
as late as October, noted by the writer and others, show at least two
generations in the Northern States, while the record of the occur-
rence of the moths in March in Texas (by Belfrage) would indi-
cate that in the Gulf States there may be an additional generation,
It would seem practically impossible for larve hatching from eggs
deposited in early spring to require until late October to attain
maturity, hence the natural inference of two generations for a
climate like the District of Columbia. The cranberry growers of
Massachusetts claim two generations for that State, one appearing
as larve in June and early July, the other in the latter part of
August.

The eggs are unknown, and the periods of egg and larva have
not been ascertained, but the pupal condition has been observed to
be passed, for the first generation, in from 11 to 14 days, while the
over-wintering pupa consumes five or six months in the District of
Columbia, a shorter time farther south, and a longer time northward.

The date of the appearance in the North of the first moths has
not been learned positively nor the natural time of emergence of the
first new generation of moths.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

Doctor Smith* has stated that the larve of this spanworm are
checked by parasites, but that in some localities almost every year
they become numerous enough to be destructive. In some. years,
however, in the cranberry bogs of New Jersey they are not seen at
all, showing great scarcity, due probably in part, at least, to natural
causes. Only one parasite for this species is known, namely, /w-
orista boarmiw Coq., a tachina fly reared at this Department from
Cotuit and other localities in Massachusetts several years ago.

REMEDIES.

Tuis species is not difficult to control on asparagus or other truck
crops. As it feeds in free exposure on the foliage, spraying with
Paris green or arsenate of lead will destroy it, and when either of
these insecticides is used for the asparagus beetles it will kill all of
the spanworms which may be present. The Paris green may be

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. 27

used at the rate of 1 pound to about 100 to 150 gallons of water, and
the arsenate of lead at the rate of about 1 pound to 25 to 50 gallons
of water. The same remedies will apply equally well to the oceur-
rence of this species in cranberry bogs.

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. GLoveR, TOWNEND. Report Commissioner Patents, p. 92, Plate VITI, fig. 4,
1855 (1856).
Probably this species. Appears in Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida early in
October and feeds upon the petals of the cotton flower: larva and adult described
and figured.
2. GUENEE, M. A. Species Géneral des Lépidoptéres, Vol. IX, Phalénites,
pp. 245, 246, 248, 1857.
Original description as Boarmia pampinaria from near Baltimore, as B. frugal
laria from Georgia, and as B. sublunaria from North America.
3. LANDON, M. D. Rept. Comm. Agr. f. 1864 (1865), p. 90.
erroneously figured as the *‘ cotton eaterpillar (Noctua «ylina).”
4, PACKARD, A. S. Report U. S. Geological Survey Terr., Hayden, Vol. N,
pp. 432, 442, Plate XI, fig. 20, 1876.
Technical and detailed description of moth; synonymy; distribution and note
on larva and pupa, the former feeding on pear.
5. GLOVER, TOWNEND. Cotton and its principal injurious insects< Washington,
DiG. Plate Vit, figs: 6; 7.8, 1878:
Figures larva, chrysalis, and moth: found early in October in Georgia feeding
on flowers of the cotten plant.
6. Frencu, G. H. Papilio, Vol. I, p. 82, 1881.

Notes on larva found feeding on willow and geranium.

(. SmirH, J. B. Bul. 4 (0. s.), Div. Ent.. U. S. Dept. Agr., pp. 26—28, 1884.
A two-page account in reference to injuries to cranberries; description of
larva; referred to as Cymatophora pampinaria ; remedies.
8. Forses, 8. A. Thirteenth Rept. State Entomologist Illinois, pp. T6—-78, 1885
(1884).

A rather full account. Larva found frequently in midsummer in southern
Illinois feeding on leaves of strawberry; description of larva, pupa, and imago
(quoted from Packard).
9. Forpes, S. A. ' Trans. Miss. Valley Hort. Soc., Vol. II, p. 235, 1884.
Quotations of first two paragraphs of No. 8.
10. Packarp, A. 8S. Fifth Report U. 8S. Ent. Commission, p. 654, 1890.

Included in a list of insects affecting honey locust (Gleditschia triacanthos).
11. CHITrenpEN, F. H. Bul. 10, n.s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 61, 1898.
An unknown geometrid larva feeding on asparagus; subsequently ascertained
to be this species.
12. Luccer, Orro. Fourth Rept. Entomologist State Exp. Station Minn., pp.
187, 188, fig. 188, 1898 (1899).
Notes on the moth; caterpillar found on the apple and blackberry. Short gen-
eral account.
13. SmirH, J. B. Farmers’ Bulletin 178, U.S. Dept. Agriculture, pp. 19-21,
1903.

Account of injuries to cranberry, life history, and remedial measures.

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

(Mamestra legitima Grote. )

A strikingly beautiful black and yellow striped caterpillar is fre-
quently found in gardens, and occasionally in such numbers as to
attract attention. It is a general feeder, like most of its kind, but is
somewhat partial to asparagus, cruciferous plants, peas, and other
leguminous vegetables. Its occurrence in the District of Columbia in
some numbers, especially on asparagus, has permitted a study of the
species, which adds somewhat to what has previously been published.
Only a few short notices of this insect have appeared in publications
of the Department of Agriculture or elsewhere, to the writer’s knowl-
edge. The following somewhat brief account is therefore presented.

This species is a noctuid, related to the cutworms, and is congeneric
with the zebra caterpillar (J/amestra picta Harr.). The moth was
originally described in 1864,° the species at that time being known
from the middle and eastern States, where it was stated to be com-
mon. It is also recorded as oceurring in the northern States. Evi-
dently, considering its numbers in the Gulf region, it may be found
in most States east of the Mississippi River Valley.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The moth is quite prettily marked, as can be seen by referring to
figure 7, a The prevailing tint of the fore-wings is a hght lead
color, marked with velvety-black and brown spots, the pattern varying
somewhat but usually about as figured. The lower wings are fawn
colored, with dusky margins, and the veins are moderately prominent.
The females, as is usual with this group, have the abdomen as illus-
trated, while the males have abdomens with bushy tips. The wing
expanse 1s a little more than an inch and a quarter.

The eggs.—No description of the egg is available at the present
writing.

The larva is also a pretty form and its markings recall the zebra
caterpillar. It will be noticed by the figure (fig. 7, 6, ¢) that there is
considerable difference, however, and the two species are not at all
likely to be confused by anyone who carefully examines them. The
present species has a larger and wider head and is darker than is
usual with the common zebra caterpillar. The appearance of the
head from in front is shown at d. The stripes with which the body is

aApamea legitima, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phila., Vol. III, p. 82.

[oye]
ac

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR. 29

ornamented are black and yellow, as with the zebra caterpillar, but the
lateral stripe is divided into two portions, the upper one lighter than
the lower, and the entire lateral surface when marked consists of
regular stripes, whereas in the other species these stripes are broken
up.

The pupa, when mature, is nearly black in color, and has the
appearance illustrated (fig. 7, ¢). It measures about five-eighths of
an inch in length, including the tips.

BIOLOGIC NOTES.

This species was briefly mentioned as having been found by the
writer in the larval condition on asparagus at Marshall Hall, Md.,
in October, 1896.4 At that time it
was impossible to ascertain whether
or not it bred from eggs deposited
on this plant, but later observations
conducted in company with Mr.
F. C. Pratt during the first and sec-
ond weeks of October show con-
clusively that such must be the case,
as larve were found in the greatest
abundance on three large patches of
asparagus at Brookland, D. C.
They usually occurred singly, but
occasionally in pairs.

During the heat of the day, in
the moderately cool and seasonable
Indian summer weather usual at
Washington at that time of the

ric. 7.—-The striped garden caterpillar

year, many larvee would be found (Mamestra legitima) : a, Adult: b,
Spe < : aes . ~ larva from above; c,,same from side;
stretched out upon dry sprigs of a) {HERG Coe” samme: fitotn Reet ees

asparagus, and in spite of their pupa. All natural size except d,
bright colors they would easily have MC pa ea
escaped the observation of anyone without experience in insect col-
lecting. The larva, in fact, furnishes a good example of protective
coloration. An individual would be in plain sight, and then if one’s
eyes were directed elsewhere for a moment it would sometimes be
difficult to find it again, although it might be within a foot of the
observer.

Larvee obtained October 7 and later were kept feeding on asparagus
in our rearing cages until the third week of October, when they de-
scended to the earth and soon afterwards assumed the pupal condition.
The exact date of the assumption of the chrysalis form was not ascer-

@ Bul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 60.

30 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

tained, but it was about the 21st of October, which would give a
period for the pupa of ten months, as the moths of this lot began
issuing August 21."

One individual transformed to pupa October 17 and the imago
issued August 24 of the following year.

October 15, 1898, the larva was brought to the writer by Mr. P. H.
Dorsett, from his greenhouse at Garrett Park, Md., where the species
was feeding on the foliage of violet. The same year, November 3,
this larva was found rather abundantly by Doctor Howard in tobacco
fields in Southern Virginia, near the North Carolina border line, upon
the leaves, which in some cases were badly ragged.” The first moths
issued in July.

During 1900 and 1901 correspondence was had in regard to this
caterpillar with Mr. H. Walter McWilliams, Griffin, Ga., who sent
specimens, as also larvae of the so-called cotton cutworm (Pr ‘odenia
ornithogalli Guen.), with which the insect was associated in both
years. The caterpillars were noticed there in greatest numbers during
November, and both species were reported as destroying a number of
garden crops, among which were cabbage, collards, turnip, ruta-baga,

rape, peas and related plants, as also some other vegetables. Mature
larvee were seen as late as the last week of November.

Among other office records are two which also have a bearing on
the biology of this species. One of these was made by Mr. Theo.
Pergande, who found the larve in the District of Columbia feeding
on blackberry and on flowers of a goldenrod (Solidago sp.). The
other is a short note by Mr. F. M. Webster upon the rearing of the
moth in spring from the seed pods of milkweed (Asclepias incar-
nata), near Lafayette, Ind.“ The larva appeared to subsist upon the
seeds, the pods being attached unopened to the wrecked plant.” ‘

October 21-the larva was found at Washington, D. C. We have no
further records in regard to the habits of this species other than the
capture of moths in the District of Columbia July 25, August 22 and
25, and September 2, and there are specimens also in the:U. +
National Museum from Lewis County, N. Y., July 4, collected by
O. Meske, and others from New Jersey without definite locality. ‘The
species is also said te occur at Portland, Oregon. It is interesting to
note that among these specimens are inflated larve and mounted
heads labeled By eutworm,” which oun be termed a mranu-

a@The rearing jar was kept under somew hat unnatural conditions, at times
too warm and dry, but the effect of one condition might have been counteracted
by another, and the date ef issuance of the adults was not far from that which
would be assumed in nature—more likely earlier than otherwise.

b Yearbook U. 8. Dept. Agric. for 1898, p. 142.

¢ Insect Life, Vol. II, p. 382, 1890.

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR. d1

script name, as I do not find this insect mentioned under this cogno-
men in print. With present knowledge of the species it can not
properly be classified as a cutworm.

Among the files of the Department of Agriculture there are a few
notes which are of interest as showing the cycle of periods from egg
to about the last stage of the larva. These notes were made in 1882
by Mr. Albert Koebele, and the mounts which were made with them
are not sufficiently fresh for description. From these notes the fol-
lowing is taken:

Moths collected at sirup, near the District of Columbia, Septem-
ber 16, were placed in a rearing jar with grass, where two batches
of eggs were laid between 11 and 12 o’clock at night, one of these
being deposited around the stem of grass.

September 18 the eggs hatched, showing the egg period to be only
2 days. On the 21st the larve had completed the first molt, making
the first larval instar 3 days. September 23 the second molt was
observed, which gives 2 days as the second larval instar. September
27 larve changed their third skin, leaving 5 days as the period of
the third instar.

October 1 the fourth molt occurred, making 4 days for the fourth
instar. By October 9 all the larve had changed the fifth skin, when
they developed cannibalistic tendencies and were removed to a larger
jar. The period of this instar was 8 days. The remaining larve
refused to eat and finally died, so that the complete life cycle could
not be ascertained.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

Soon after bringing larve in from the field some were noticed to
be dying from fungous attack. In the asparagus fields /’stigmene
(Leucarctia) acrwa Dru, and Dissosteira carolina L., the salt-marsh
vaterpular and Carolina locust, respectively, were also dying in con-
siderable numbers, and it was conjectured that the disease might have
originated with these and spread to the Mamestras. After the dis-
eased caterpillars had been frequently removed, however, the fungous
attack abated. Specimens of infected larve were referred to the
Bureau of Plant Industry, and the fungus was identified by Mrs.
Flora W. Patterson, assistant pathologist, as an undescribed species
ef Verticillium. At another time larve which showed signs of dis-
ease after capture were examined by Mrs. Patterson, who recognized
the presence of the fungus Sporotrichum minimum Speg. A larva,
when placed with diseased insects, including some of its own species,
did not contract the fungous disease, from which it seems probable
that the disease is not readily communicable, and hence of no use as a
possible means of destroying this species.

32 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
SUMMARY OF HABITS.

From present knowledge of the caterpillar two generations annually
are indicated, although only one has been observed. Moths have been
reared by the writer in July and August and they have been captured
out of doors during the same months and in September. From
available data it w an appear that an average life history would be
about as follows: Egg period, 3 to 5 days; first larval instar, 3 days;
second larval instar, 2 days; third, 5 days; fourth, 4 days; fifth,
8 days, and pupal stage, 7 to 10 months. Hibernation occurs in the
pupal stage.

The observed food plants include asparagus, cabbage, collards,
turnip, ruta-baga, rape, peas and related plants, greenhouse violet,
tobacco, grass, and blackberry. Of wild plants, golden-rod and
milkweed have been observed, the larva attacking the flowers of
the former and the seed pods of the latter.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Although the early habits of this species as it occurs in the field
have not been observed, there is no doubt that, like the zebra cater-
pillar, the young when first hatched are gregarious for some time,
and hence may be easily discovered and destroyed by mechanical
means or by arsenicals. All of the caterpillars of this class readily
succumb to arsenical poisons, and for this species in its occurrence on
asparagus and some other plants arsenate of lead is to be preferred.
It may be used at the rate of about 1 pound combined with 15 to 25
gallons of water or Bordeaux mixture. If an adhesive resin soap,
such as resin fish-oil soap, is added, it makes this mixture all the
more permanent, and a single application is then all that is necessary.
Paris green may be used in the same manner at the rate of 1 pound
to 100 or 150 gallons of water. It is evident that this species, like
the zebra caterpillar, does no particular harm as a rule in its first
generation, but is much more abundant in the second or late fall gen-
eration, when certain plants are injured by it. Owing to the dif_i-
culty of locating the larger larve, it is evident that hand-picking
would not be applicable for them in their later stages.

O

eS: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE;
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY —BULLETIN No. 66, Part IV.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE
LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET

AND THEIR RELATION TO THE
“CURLY-LEAF”’ CONDITION.

BY

EK; D: BALL, Par Dz,

Special Field Agent.

IssuED JANUARY 27, 1909.

ai a in
FEB 19 1909 }
- — f

/) 4 i
Af OT
~ - “Milan al Bi cash
WASHINGTON: \tuonal uses
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1909.

CONSE ENTS:

MOLMRIMCIION, .cacesats. eo cta: Tectoat fo eeab ee tah ee aoe eae a noat oun ote
‘The buet.leafhopper (Mutettiz tenella Baker))........---.---+--.-------se0ce4-
DEBE TU VCs ere orders SP Aaa aR ea ern Anis AE Nt te oe arc ema
AIG pea ee ee ee ee eee eats Nee ee Soe ee iw as ans skeen

PNG CSOs Se yee re See cee ee Pe era eect hs Sree ete

{Nove very egh 0) 9: Rep A Se SESS OS ee eee ee ee ee eae

| Drovers My S11 fo re ee eames EC ne ee a ee ae
1OTEGL UD NODS 2 eras ee eS See I gee ee a
SerIPsInROCNRRLUCION 25. See ere Se ae SE Le ook es Yi eos See
RecondsateneninUitaies sce eese ce ie Ao. 2 Ak Ears ene
IRVECOrURai eV ONTOGR Uta neeos mee seems se eee Ae ees Lele Bae
MPHORATCCOLUM NM GAM o8 Crees Ss Sanh ein awn Saree see Soe Eeoa
Cascexnenrmenite. teen, Wtabn tet fo seats ee Se wes descceoceee
Peay OLALLIe MISUOE Vice ae ese a hos Sialoin,s ole mals Starmle Seema eio oe

LRG TUNOEIO SiG Ga a oe an ies ea ene
Cho rictenmuesOn. “CUnbvalGat* 2.0 22025. bss ated noe bares Jee.

Wie SLOCONQer epee hs ek ea tate Sila nt Sane sees Does
Economic summary and proposed remedies-.-..........--.-.-----.----

12S] o YN cu Speripa] MECC H AY ge) (zt 2) 00 = ae pl a a eR
Siiict leatnOppers 2. 125 ooo -2 452 2-4-2 =e AS A ee a
PENNA ERO Mier es See a ot oh Ae I wt cee Sloe pe wee etaes
PEPE EN SYLAR SE cng) See are oy pee Se aS cies Se See fa Se ee

J OVP AODIREGIIN [TLDS WOOO EE ES SOOO COR SSS OE oe IOS I ea A eke
ERE CLOTLLAG. NA DILZ CC am ose nee oa erne sais oe aie aise ae | oe eee
Eutettix insana Ball, E. albida Ball, and E. pauperculata Ball.....-..----.

PE HLiCliteee SUR ICL @ Ales we, Neen ae Ae oe @ re ciciste areicicicimoeinoea ea ccm eee

PA CLLUMSATOUUNOLETILONETOVocs)ta Ged oe ba a aac niece ec secs = asses ee
PgauLacunened OsvOrmranGd ball sos soe < 2 cca eiae anaes eet ee ee
ELE URS Y STC TR SLT fae ee a a RR
Agallia quadripunctata Prov. and A. novella Say.....--------------------
TRON eS CINE SS OE A ae ce ee a ee ee
WONG MONS A rCrAn TO ma CUM =lCAt cco se oe. Ao oe occasions ecco s sence eee=

66-—IV

46

51
51

52

ILLUSDR ALON Se

PLATES.

PuaTE I. Leafhoppers (Hutettir spp.) and their work. Fig. 1.-—Hu-
tettix tenella: a, Adult; b, nymph; c, wing; d, e, geni-
talia; f, eggs (greatly enlarged); g, section of beet stem,
showing fresh eggs in place; h, same, showing eggs ready
to hatch; 7, old egg scars on beet stems; j, small leaf of
sugar beet, showing characteristic “ curly-leaf” condition;
k, enlarged section of back of an extreme case of “ curly-
leaf,” showing “warty” condition of veins. Fig. 2.—
EHutettiz strobi: a, Work of nymphs on lambsquarters;
6, work of nymphs on sugar beet. Fig. 3.—EHutettix scit-
wa: Adult. Fig. 4.—Hutettix clarivida: a, Wing; b, head
and pronotum; c, d, genitalia. Fig. 5.—Hutettix nigridor-
sum: Work of nymphs on leaf of Helianthus. Fig. 6.—
Eutettix straminea: Work of nymphs on leaf of another
Helianthus. Fig. 7.—Hutettix insana: Wing. Fig. 8.—
Eitet ac surictacsd. OG emit ae eee eee eee

Il. Work of Hutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—Three
‘‘curly-leaf” beets, the result of attack by Hutettix tenella,
and one normal beet from the same field, showing differ-
ence in size. Figs. 2, 3.—‘‘ Curly-leaf’’ beets as seen in
the field. Fig. 4-—Normal beets from same field__________

Ill. Work of Hutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1—A large
beet becoming “curly.” Fig. 2.—Back of a leaf affected
by “curly-leaf,”’ showing “‘ warty” condition and curled
CMOS oe a I ENS ee es, 2 Ta es

IV. Work of Hutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—A field of
beets destroyed by ‘“ curly-leaf.’ Figs. 2, 3.—Cages used
in whe Wife-historyaex periments) eee eS

66—IV

TV

Page.

34

44

44

46

U. S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 66, Part IV. Issued January 27, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPs.

THE LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET AND THEIR RELATION
TO THE ‘‘CURLY-LEAF ”’ CONDITION.

By 5B. D: BA, Ph: D:,
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

Ever since the introduction of the sugar beet into the intermountain
region more or less loss has resulted each season from a condition
called “ curly-leaf,” or “blight.” (See Pl. I, fig. 1, 7; Pls. II, TIT;
Pl. IV, fig. 1.) Around Grand Junction, Colo., the beet growers
have suffered frequent losses from this source. Supt. George Austin,
of the Utah Sugar Company, reported a serious loss around Lehi,
Utah, in 1897. In 1903 the beet crop in Sevier County, Utah, was
somewhat injured, the next year the damage was worse and more
widespread, while in 1905 it extended throughout the State of Utah
and the adjoining portions of Colorado and Idaho.

Until 1905 the condition had been looked upon as a result of some
fungous or bacterial disease, or due to a soil or climatic condition.
During that season it was noticed for the first time that a leafhopper
(ELutettix tenella Baker) was present in large numbers in the fields
where this damage was the worst, and the writer, in connection with
his duties as entomologist of the Utah Agricultural Experiment Sta-
tion, commenced an investigation of the insect and its relation to the
damage. It was then too late to work out its life history, so most
attention was paid to a study of its relation to the “ curly-leaf ” condi-
tion and to experiments with remedies. This investigation was con-
tinued in 1906 and 1907, in cooperation with the Bureau of Entomol-
ogy, and the life history was worked out. Owing to the small num-
ber of insects appearing these two seasons, little more was done with
remedies, but many new facts were learned in regard to methods of
attack and the causes of the injury.

The writer’s attention was first called to the “curly-leaf” in
August, 1900, by Prof. F. H. Shaw, then chemist of the Grand June-
tion (Colo.) Sugar Factory. A careful examination was made at
this time and again in succeeding years, but no explanation was found

66—IV
33

34 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

for this condition. These examinations were, however, always made
late in the season after the curly-leaf character had become general
and after the greater number of insects had disappeared. EExamina-
tion of the beets always revealed a few specimens of H'utettix tenella
along with other leafhoppers and miscellaneous insects, but never in
sufficient number to cause suspicion.

Late in June, 1905, reports began to come in to the Utah experiment
station of the appearance of an insect in the beet fields of the southern
and central portions of the State, and on July 8 the writer, in com-
pany with Mr. George Austin, visited the fields around Lehi and there
found the beet leafhoppers, associated with smaller numbers of. false
chinch bugs (Nysius) and leafhoppers of the genus Agallia, causing
serious damage to the young plants, especially in the late-planted
fields.

From the size of the beets and the number of the beet leafhoppers
present when first examined in 1905, the prediction was made that the
insects would not be able seriously to retard the further growth of the
beets. This prediction was based on the ordinary amount of damage
done by insects of sucking habits. That the number of insects found
would be able to injure or even seriously retard a very young beet
was recognized, but that the same number could have any appreciable
effect on large beets was contrary to all expectations based on a knowl-
edge of similar attacks by Nysius, Agallia, and other sucking insects.

The trouble soon afterwards appeared in the Cache Valley, Utah,
and was under observation there throughout the remainder of the sea-
son, while several trips were made to various parts of the State.
Wherever it appeared it gradually grew worse, and although the year
1905 started with everything favorable in the early season, the Utah
beet crop fell below the average about 75,000 tons. This, however, did
not anywhere represent the entire loss, as both sugar content and
purity of the beets harvested fell far below the average, entailing fur-
ther loss to the sugar companies and bringing the total to more than
half a millon dollars.

In Sanpete and Sevier counties, in the southern part of Utah, a
large part of the acreage was abandoned early in the season, while the
rest barely paid the expense of harvesting. In Utah County the crop
varied from a total loss on a few late fields to a full crop, with an
average of more than a half crop harvested. In the Cache Valley, in
the northern part of the State, the loss was about one-third in tonnage,
and in Weber and Boxelder counties less than that.

In 1906 a very small number of leafhoppers appeared, and, as the
season was cool, even where they were most abundant little damage
was done. <A careful study was made of the life history and distribu-
tion of the species, and a number of tests were made of its injury to
the beets.

66—1V

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Eniomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture

PLATE I.

LEAFHOPPERS (EUTETTIX SPP.) AND THEIR WoRK.

Fig. 1.—Eutettix tenella: a, Adult: b, nymph; ¢
enlarged); g, section of beet stem,
eggs ready to hatch; 7, old ege-scars on bee
ing characteristic “curly-leaf’’ condition:

case of *curly-leaf,’ showing * warty” condition of veins. Fig. 2.—Eutettix strobi:
a, Work of nymphs on lambsquarters: b, work of nymphs on sugar beet.
Eutettic scitula: Adult. Fig. 4.— Ent ttix clarivida: a, Wing: b, head and pronotum;
¢,d, genitalia. Fig. 5.—Butettix nigridorsum: Work of nymphs on leaf of Helianthus.
Fig. 6.—Eutettix straminea: Work of nymphs on leaf of another Helianthus. Fig.
7.—Eutettix insana: Wing. Fig. 8.—E£utettix stricta: a. b, Genitalia. (Author's illus-
trations. ) /

, wing; d, e, genitalia; f,

eggs (greatly
showing fresh eggs in place: /;

, Same, showing
t stems; 7, small leaf of sugar beet. show-
k, enlarged section of back of an extreme

Fig. 3.—

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 35

THE BEET LEAFHOPPER.
(Butettix tenella Baker.)
DESCRIPTIVE.

The adult (P1. I, fig. 1, a) is a small, pale yellowish-green species,
little larger than an Empoasca or Typhlocyba, with which it might
easily be confused in the field were it not for the stouter build and
greater activity. When fresh or when flying this leafhopper appears
almost white, and for this reason it has often been called the “ white
five | (Wing, Pl. 1, fig. 1,.¢; genitalia, Pl: I, fig. 1):d,:¢.)

The eggs (PI. I, fig. 1, #) are white, elongate, slightly curved and
tapering at one end, and are thrust into the leaf stem in a slightly
downward direction. At first they are scarcely visible (PI. I, fig.
1, 7), but as the stem grows they are pushed out with the opening up
of the injured spot until at hatching time they are often half free
(Pl. I, fig. 1,2). After the eggs hatch, the egg scars continue to en-
large and remain throughout the season as irregular, elongate, crater-
like swellings (PI. I, fig. 1,7). The eggs are deposited on all parts of
the leaf stem, usually one in a place. In the cages they were often
placed close together, very likely in this case by different insects,
however, and a number were inserted into the midrib and secondary
veinlets of the leaf and a few into the leaf margin near the base.

The nymphs (P\. I, fig. 1, 5) are very active, pale creamy white or
variously colored forms. The commonest form is pale creamy in
color with a brown saddle on the middle of the abdomen and various
mottlings on the prothorax and wing-pads. Some have the same pat-
tern with a reddish ground color, more are creamy yellow, and occa-
sionally one is seen with a broad and somewhat irregular dark stripe
down the back. When small the nymphs will be found most com-
monly down in the unfolding leaves at the center of the beet, but as
they grow older they spread out over the plant.

yvJD PLANTS.

The original food plant of this species is still in doubt. In the
spring it was found on greasewood (Sarcobatus), sea-blite (Dondia),
several species of Atriplex, Russian thistle, and rarely on other plants
of these two families occurring on the waste land. As these places
dried up, most of the leafhoppers went to the sugar beets in the areas
under observation. In one case, however, the species was found in
some numbers on greasewood during egg-laying time, which would
suggest this plant as its original host. Its known distribution is all
within the area in which this plant is abundant.

66—1v

36 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
DISTRIBUTION.

This leafhopper is apparently a native of the southwestern part
of the United States. It has been collected from about the region
of Denver, Colo., south along the edge of the mountains, through
New Mexico, and west through Arizona, Utah, and southern Idaho
to the coast’in California and Oregon. Though confined to the
mountain region, its distribution is restricted to the lower levels,
and it is never taken on the mountains themselves. From this region
it has not spread very far up to the present time. It was taken at
Fort Collins and Lamar, Colo., in 1901—1in one case 100 miles north
of its known habitat, on wild plants, and in the other an equal dis-
tance east, but was rare in both situations. In Utah it has spread to
the northern line of the State and into Idaho as far as that par-
ticular beet area has been extended, while it has not as yet been taken
from the wild plants north of Ogden, Utah.

LIFE-HISTORY STUDIES.

Search was made for this species as soon as the growing season
commenced in the spring of 1906, but no specimens were discovered
in the Cache Valley, Utah, up to the time the beets came up. A
trip to Sevier County, Utah, at the time the very earliest beets
were just showing (April 22) failed to disclose a single individual,
either in the beet fields or in waste places or hedgerows adjacent to
the beet-growing districts. The first specimens discovered this sea-
son were found at Thompsons, Utah, May 3, feeding on Russian
thistle, and a few days later the insect was found on the same plant
and on an annual saltbush (Atriplex) at Grand Junction, Colo.

Beet fields were examined at Grand Junction, Colo., May 8, and
in Utah at Lehi, May 9; Smithfield, May 12; Garland, May 13;
Lehi, May 17; Corinne and Penrose, May 22; and Provo and Lehi,
June 1, without finding a single leafhopper on any of them. The
beets were not up at Lehi on May 9, nor at Smithfield, but the fields
were examined carefully, especially where weeds were beginning to
appear. Fields at Logan, Utah, were under observation during all
this time and up to July 1, but no leafhoppers were found.

RECORD AT LEHI, UTAH.

On June 21 a field was examined at Lehi in which there was an
average of one or two leafhoppers to a beet. They were all adults
and two-thirds of them females. The beets in this field were from
6 to 10 inches across, and no sign of injury was observed. On exam-
ining the other fields in the valley a very much smaller number of
leafhoppers was found. Some fields had one individual to 10 beets,

66—IV

was

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. oT

while some had none at all. The average would not have been more
than one leafhopper to 25 beets. They were most numerous on the
higher, drier fields, and on the early beets. Two patches of very
late beets close to the first one visited had no leafhoppers at this time.

Eight females from this field were dissected, and fully developed
eggs were found in each one, 9 in one, 7 in another, and from 2 to 4
in each one of the others. Only large eggs could be seen with the
lens used, and probably some of these were crushed while being re-
moved. The fact that all females had fully developed eggs and that
there were more females than males indicated that these adults had
been out a long time and were not new ones of a brood that had just
flown in from surrounding wild land.

On June 29 a few were found in the late beets, but no nymphs were
found anywhere.

July 10 the adults were present in about the same numbers as be-
fore, the females still containing eggs, and a few very small nymphs
were found.

July 23 the adults were slightly less numerous, and the nymphs
from small to one-third grown and quite abundant. A few of them
were nearly grown, but no fresh males could be found. More
nymphs were found on the early beets, more “curly leaf” on the
late ones.

August 3 the nymphs were mostly about two-thirds grown, some
were small, and some full-grown. Large numbers of adults of the
new brood were out, about half of the leafhoppers being adult at this
time.

August 14 the adults were abundant. The leafhoppers were nearly
all adults or large nymphs, but a few small nymphs were still to be
found.

On August 29 the insects were mostly adult, males being still in
the majority, but there was still quite a number of full-grown
nymphs. Many females were dissected and a few found that had
from 4 to 7 large eggs, but the rest had no sign of any. These few
were probably the last remnant cf the over-wintered brood of females.

September 12 the adults were still common and more males than
females were taken by sweeping. Large nymphs were still present
in small numbers. Ten females were dissected, but no eggs found,
and the abdomens were all small. Evidently there was to be no egg
laying for some time, probably not that season.

Norr.—The season opened unusually late at Lehi in 1906, and
these dates would be from one to two weeks late for an ordinary
season.

63754—Bull. 66, pt 4—09

2

38 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

RECORD AT MONROE, UTAH.

In Monroe, Sevier County, the season opened early, and the beets
were nearly all planted in April. An examination April 22, as men-
tioned above, failed to discover a single leafhopper.

On June 26, on a second visit, nearly all the beets were in fine
shape, with leaves touching in the rows, and only lacking a few
inches of touching across rows. The leafhoppers were present in
every patch, both adults and very small nymphs, and occasionally a
larger nymph was seen. Mr. Fred Gould, field superintendent, said
that he had observed the adults for some time. There were more leaf-
hoppers on the older patches than on the late planted ones, indicating
that they had migrated in before the younger beets were far enough
advanced to attract them.

On July 25 the leafhoppers had increased in numbers, averaging
from 10 to 20 to a beet on the earlier patches. Adult males were com-
mon, showing that the nymphs had commenced to change to adults
again. All stages of nymphs were still common, however.

On September 14 the numbers of leafhoppers were beginning to
decrease. Several countings gave an average of 7 males to 5 females
and 5 large nymphs. The dissection of a number of females showed
no eggs developed as yet, and there seemed little doubt that they

would hibernate.
OTHER RECORDS IN UTAH.

A field belonging to a Mr. Irons at Moroni, Sanpete County, was
visited June 27, and an average of one leafhopper to every two beets
was found. Mr. Irons, who is a very careful observer, said that they
had been there for some time. A careful search was made for the
nymphs, but none was found. This was by far the worst infested
field in the county, the average being less than one insect to ten beets.

July 26 adults and nymphs were about equally common, and few of
either.

In the Cache Valley and the rest of the northern end of the State
the leafhoppers did not appear in sufficient numbers to enable one
to make any life-history notes. On this account all cage experiments
were transferred to Lehi.

CAGE EXPERIMENTS, LEHI, UTAH. H

The field observations on life history were all checked by cage
experiments (PI. IV, figs. 2,3). Cages 1 to 3 were failures, through
the adults escaping from the material used. Later a very fine silk
scrim was used and proved satisfactory for the life-history work, but

vas too closely meshed to obtain normal temperature and moisture

conditions inside. All cages were run in pairs on similar beets, one

with insects and one without, as a check on the injury to the beet.
66—IV ;

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 39

Cages 4 and 5 (glass globes upon beets about 8 inches in diam-
eter) —On July 10, 16 adult leafhoppers, 12 of which were females,
were introduced into cage 4. Previous dissections had shown that all
females were bearing eggs, and the presence of a very few small
nymphs in the field proved that the earliest ones began depositing
eggs some time before. It was therefore expected that some of the
females introduced would begin depositing at once.

On July 23 these cages were examined, and in the one containing
the leafhoppers the stems were found to be fairly covered with egg
sears. Two of the stems were removed and preserved, and found to
contain 161 eggs—not more than one-sixth of the total number pres-
ent. A number of females were seen in the cage, but no nymphs.

July 27 the stems showed still more egg scars, and there was quite
a number of small nymphs that had apparently been out several
days. The insects had been in the cage only seventeen days, so these
eggs must have hatched within thirteen to fifteen days from the time
of laying, under the conditions found in the cage. Another stem
was removed and preserved, and the rest left as before.

On August 3 another stem was removed. The eggs had almost
all hatched by this time. Some had dried up and a few were found
just ready to hatch. A few were sticking out of the stalk and looked
quite fresh, but were probably infertile. Some of the leaves had
wilted and died, and the remainder were literally alive with small
to half-grown nymphs, together with a few adults, no doubt the
remaining parents.

These half-grown nymphs were no doubt those hatched between
July 23 and 27, and would thus be between eight and eleven days
old, roughly indicating a nymphal period of between sixteen and

. twenty-two days under these conditions.

On August 14 this cage was visited again, and the beet found dead
and dry. From appearances it had been dead several days. The
few leafhoppers that survived were adults and large nymphs. They
were so few in number that it was impossible to tell whether they
were the surviving parents or a new generation, so they were released.

Cages 6 and 7 (silk scrim 2 feet square).—On July 23, 18 nymphs
varying between one-third and two-thirds grown were introduced
into cage 6. These were intended to represent the larger ones found
in the field at that date.

On July 27 no adults could be seen.

On August 3 most of the nymphs had changed to adults. This
period of eleven days was, then, more than one-third and slightly
less than two-thirds of the nymphal period. This gives about the
same result as the test in cage 4.

Cages 8 and 9 (silk scrim with glass top).—On August 3, 40 leaf-
hoppers were introduced into cage 8; of these 23 were females,

66—IV

40 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

apparently all fresh, 10 were males, and 7 were large nymphs, the
aim being to get as many of the earliest ones of the maturing brood
as possible without introducing any belated ones of the parent brood.
By this method it was hoped to get the succeeding brood, if there
was to be one, as soon in the cages as it appeared in the field, and
thus establish a minimum time between broods.

On August 14 this cage was examined, and all leafhoppers seen
were adults. There were no signs of egg scars or of damage.

On August 30 but few leafhoppers could be seen, and no egg scars
or damage.

On September 1 12 the leafhoppers were almost all gone, and no eggs
had been laid, either in the cage or field, and dissection showed
that the females had no visible eggs in the abdomen up to date. It
was thought at this time that the aduits would lay eggs in the fall
and then die. Accordingly a new lot was started, as shown below.

Cages 10 and 11 (large lantern globes).—On August 30, 30 leaf-
hoppers were introduced into No. 10, of which 12 were females In
No. 11 one female and several males were introduced. On September
12 no egg scars could be found in either cage.

Cages 13 and 14 (silk scrim with a glass top).—On September 12,
90 leafhoppers, nearly all of which were females, were placed in
cage 13.

On October 20 the field of beets was harvested. The cages were
removed and the beets labeled and sent on for examination. Each
leaf and stem, and even the parts of the beet itself protruding from
the ground, were examined carefully, but no sign of any egg scars
could be found on these beets or on those from the previous cages.
Many of the leafhoppers were alive at the time the cages were re-
moved, and there seems to be no doubt that they must hibernate as

adults.
SUMMARY OF LIFE HISTORY.

By the time the beets were thinned the leafhoppers began to appear
in the fields and by the middle of June were well distributed. They
gradually increased in numbers for some time after this. Egg laying ~
began at Lehi, Utah, late in June and continued until late in August,
each female depositing about 80 eggs, the period of deposition ex-
tending through several weeks, the greater number of the eggs, how-
ever, being deposited in the ten days preceding the middle of July.
The nymphs appeared in small numbers by July 10, and were still to
be found in small numbers in September. A great majority of them
emerged from the eges the last ten days in July and changed to
adults some twenty days later. The first adults appeared from these
nymphs the last of July and continued to increase in number through
August. The egg stage in the cage experiments was between thirteen
and fifteen days; the larval stage between sixteen and twenty-two
days.

66—1\

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BERT. 4]

ECONOMIC RELATIONS.

The first fact observed in 1905 was that different fields were affected
very differently, and much time was spent in studying conditions in
an attempt to discover just what combination of factors was neces-
sary to produce the “ curly-leaf,” so fatal to the beets. Even in the
worst fields examined there would be here and there a beet that was
apparently untouched and growing as usual, while in the best fields
only here and there could an affected one be found.

As a result of the season’s observations there seemed to be little
question that the “ curly-leaf” condition was the result of the attack
of the leafhoppers combined with the effect of a very hot, early
season.

In many places it was noticed that along the edges of the fields
where the beets had any shade—such as would be furnished by a
hedgerow, or even by a vigorous stand of sweet clover on a ditch
bank—there would be a marked difference for the first few rows.
In Sevier County, where many of even the early-planted fields were
abandoned and where the rest averaged from 2 to 4 tons per acre,
one field was seen that did not show much damage and yielded 12
tons per acre. This field had a block of tall poplar trees on the south
and a row of equally tall ones on the west side. In other places it
was observed that the fields that were the weediest had better beets
than those that had been well cultivated. Under ordinary condi-
tions the results in all these cases would have been just the reverse,
and the only explanation that seemed plausible was that the shade of
the trees and of the weeds kept the ground from becoming quite so
hot and thus allowed the beets to overcome the effects of the leaf-
hoppers. In ordinary practice the beets are not irrigated until they
have made considerable growth; thus the taproot is forced to de-
scend for water, and a long, symmetrical beet results, while if watered
too soon the beets are short and sprangly. In one place, in 1905, it
was found that the water had escaped from a ditch and irrigated one
corner of a field much earlier than it had been applied to the rest, and
this corner was the only place that was not seriously affected with the
“ curly-leaf.” In another place the water supply failed just as they
started to irrigate the field, and the remainder was not irrigated until
a week later. The difference in the amount of “ curly-leaf ” on these
beets showed plainly to the end of the season just how far the early
water reached. At first these differences were attributed to the effect
of the early water on the beet itself, but on further investigation a
number of fields was found where subirrigation was depended upon
entirely and where, ordinarily, fine beets were raised. In these fields
the taproots of the beets were found to extend into a stratum of satu-
rated soil and yet the beets were badly affected and continued to grow

66—I1V

49, SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

worse throughout the season. The only explanation found for that
condition was that, while the beet had plenty of water, still the top
soil was dry and dusty, and the ground was as hot as in an ordinary
field, while in the fields that were irrigated early the evaporation from
the moist surface kept the temperature down until the beets were large
enough to shade the ground. This would also explain the fact that
everywhere in the State, except in Sevier County, the late beets were
affected much worse than the early ones. In other portions of the
State the early beets were large enough to shade the ground in the
rows by the time the hot weather and leafhoppers appeared. In
Sevier County, on the other hand, the hot, dry weather came on
earlier and the leafhoppers were so much more numerous that even the
earliest beets could not withstand their attack when exposed to the
full force of the sun.

The unusual numbers of the beet leafhopper were apparently
largely the result of a winter and spring favorable for the preserva-
tion of insect life, as almost all injurious insects were present in in-
creased numbers during that season (1905). The leafhoppers had,
however, evidently been increasing for several years and had even
before this reached destructive numbers in Sevier County, as the
beet growers there had been suffering increasingly from what they
called “ blight ” for two years previous to this, and this increase in
the number of insects, followed by a winter favorable to their sur-
vival, resulted in the outbreak of 1905.

The leafhoppers were present in every field examined in Utah that
season, and occurred in the greatest abundance in the areas in which
the “ curly-leaf ” was worst. The average number of adults of the
over-wintered brood to a beet varied from 3 or 4 up to 10 or 15, and
probably even more than that in Sevier County, judging from the
number found there later.. No serious damage was done where there
were only the smaller numbers, and even where the damage was worst
it seemed to depend more upon how early they appeared and the tem-
perature and moisture of the locality at that time than on the actual
number above an average of possibly 5 or 6 to a beet. In 1906 they
appeared in very small numbers. The field at Lehi, Utah, where the
experiments were conducted, was by far the worst found, and here
they averaged only about 1 or 2 to a beet, while the average of the
valley would not have been more than 1 to every ten or fifteen beets,
and the average of the State was even less.

A field in Boxelder County, Utah, was examined in August, 1905,
in which the leafhoppers had recently appeared in large numbers,
averaging 100 or even 200 in some places to the beet. The beets were
large enough then to shade the ground, and the field was well irri-
gated from that time on. Almost no curling of the leaves could be

66—IV

es i —

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 43

found in this field, and in the fall the yield was nearly up to the
average. This was the only field examined in which the leafhoppers
did not appear until after the adults had hatched out. On the other
hand, many fields were examined in which the leafhoppers had been
present early in the season but had almost disappeared after the
nymphs had matured, and yet in these fields the curling continued
to develop throughout the season and the beets grew worse instead of
recovering.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion was tried on a field in the Cache
Valley, Utah, in 1905. This field contained numerous adults and
nymphs in all stages. Four nozzles were used, each one set about 18
inches above the row and pointing obliquely down and forward, and
just in front of them a bar drew the beet tops over and caused the
leafhoppers to jump just as the spray struck them. An emulsion
diluted with 15 parts of water had little effect on the adults, and
only killed a few of the smaller nymphs. Most of the nymphs would
kick about on the ground and some would become quite still, but a
little later most of them would recover and hop away. An emulsion
diluted with 8 parts of water produced the same effect on the adults
that the weaker dilution did upon the nymphs, and killed the ma-
jority of the nymphs that it struck. Many of the latter would, how-
ever, escape the spray on account of the broad leaves of the beet, and
the results were not considered entirely satisfactory.

In the cage experiments it was expected that the number of leaf-
hoppers necessary to cause “curly-leaf” on different-sized beets
would be ascertained, but owing to the fineness of the gauze neces-
sary to hold them the temperature and moisture could not be con-
trolled and no “ curly-leaf ” was produced.t| The damp conditions of
the cages also made it difficult to keep the insects for any length of
time.

In one experiment 16 leafhoppers, 12 of which were females ready
to deposit eggs, were placed on a beet with a top 8 inches in diameter

“This manuscript was originally prepared and submitted at the close of the
season of 1906, Some revision was made to include the important facts of the
work of 1907, but the main discussions, including the above paragraph, were
written in 1906. Since that writing “ curly-leaf’’ has appeared in cages arranged
by Prof. E. G. Titus in joint investigations with the writer. Mr. H. B. Shaw,
assistant to Dr. C, O. Townsend, in charge of Sugar Beet Investigations, Bureau
of Plant Industry, U. 8. Department of Agriculture, has also succeeded in pro-
ducing “ curly-leaf ” under experimental conditions. He writes me under date of
October 28, 1908, that curly top or * curly-leaf” appeared in the cages on the
experimental plat at Garland, Utah, in which he introduced the beet leaf-
hoppers, and that later he sent a number of leafhoppers to the office of Sugar
Beet Investigations, Bureau of Plant Industry, where 6 of them were placed in
a cage with 11 young beets, 9 of which showed distinct symptoms of * curly-
leaf”’ within five weeks after the insects were introduced.

66—IV

44 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK .CROPS.

and consisting of a dozen or more leaves. Over another beet of the
same size a check cage was placed. Seventeen days later the eggs
had just begun to hatch, and already the beet in the cage without any
hoppers was nearly twice the size of the first one. The beet on which
were the leafhoppers continued to grow for a week or more, then
practically stood still, and on the seventeenth day it was apparently
smaller than when examined five days before. Seven days later a
large number of nymphs had hatched out, the outer leaves were dead,
and the rest looking sickly; ten days later than this the cage was
examined again and the beet was dead and dry, while the beet in the
check cage had again doubled in size. Twelve leafhoppers and their
eggs stopped the growth of a beet in less than two weeks, and they,
together with their progeny, killed it in less than two weeks more.
The same number of adult specimens of Agallia, Nysius, or Empoasca.
would scarcely have made an impression on a beet of that’ size.

CHARACTERISTICS OF ‘* CURLY-LEAF.”’

The first symptom of “ curly-leaf” or “ blight” of the beet is a
thickening of all the smaller veinlets of the leaf, giving it a rough-
ened appearance on the underside. This is followed by a curling of
the edge (PI. ITI, fig. 1) and a final rolling up of the leaf (PI. I, fig.
1,7; Pl. II, figs. 2,3; Pl. III, fig. 2), the upper surface always being
rolled in. As this progresses the small veinlets grow still larger and
more irregular, knotlike swellings appear at frequent intervals (PI.
III, fig. 2), and in extreme cases little nipplelike swellings appear,
extending to a height of nearly one-fourth of an inch (PI. I, fig. 1, /).
This will be noticed first upon a medium-sized leaf, gradually
spreading to the younger ones, while at the same time the beet almost
stops growing and a large number of fibrous roots are sent out (PI.
Il, fig. 1). These roots are not confined to two irregular lines as in
a healthy beet. The beet often continues in this way throughout the
season, in bad cases it shrivels and dies, while in a few instances there
is a partial recovery and a new set of leaves, though the sugar content
remains very low.

Many of the species of this genus of leafhoppers produce a
discoloration or distortion of the leaves of their food plant. This
appears to be of the same nature as the work of the gall-forming
species, and is a process little understood. The wrinkling and folding
of the leaves by some of the species 1s very similar in appearance to
the work of some gall-forming aphides. Some species also produce
a change in color similar to that produced in many galls.

In the case of Hutettix strobi (P\. I, fig. 2 a,b) and F. scitula on
the Chenopodium or on the sugar beet and of Z’. nigridorsum and EF.
straminea (P1.I, fig.6) on the Helianthus the discoloration appears as

66—IV

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE II.

WORK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

Fig. 1.—Three ‘“‘curly-leaf’’ beets, the result of attack by Eutettic tenella, and one normal
beet from the same field, showing difference in size. Figs. 2,3

‘*Curly-leaf’’ beets as
seen in the field. Fig. 4.—Normal beets from same field. (Original.)

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE III.

Ya f
ee

WoRK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

Fig. 1.—A large beet becoming ‘‘curly.”’ Fig. 2.—Back of a leaf affected by “curly-leaf,”’
showing ‘‘warty”’ condition and curled edges. (Original.)

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BERT. 45

soon as the little nymphs begin to feed, and this is soon followed by
the distortion of the leaf in a certain definite way in each case. That
this is not caused by the mechanical injury of the puncture or due
alone to the loss of sap seems to be abundantly proved by the fact
that the Chenopodium is often attacked by other sucking insects in
much larger numbers without producing either the red pigment or
the gall-like distortion. The fact that a certain characteristic color
and appearance are always produced by a given species, no matter
whether on a Chenopodium or on a sugar beet, and that the color and
form vary for the different species of the same genus even when
working on the same plant, would indicate that there is some definite
agency back of it all. It has also been noticed that in all this group
the greatest amount of damage is done in hot, dry situations.
Whether or not the “ curly-leaf ” condition is entirely the result of
the change in the beet caused by the attack of the beet leafhopper is
still an open question, but that there is some relationship between the
leafhopper attack and the “ curly-leaf ” does not seem to admit of a
doubt in the light of the facts brought out in the investigations. The
amount of damage in a given valley was directly proportional to the
number of leafhoppers present, the injury appeared only after the
appearance of the leafhoppers, and the “ curly-leaf” condition is
known to occur only on beets growing within the range of this insect.
Attention was not called to the damage early enough in 1905 to
ascertain whether or not the “ curly-leaf” appeared before the first
appearance of the nymphs. At Lehi, Utah, the “ curly-leaf” ap-
peared very soon after the first nymphs. In the Cache Valley, Utah,
the nymphs were common by the time the first curling was noticed.
In 1906 very careful watch was kept in all parts of the State for the
very first sign of leaf-curl, and in no case did it appear (except on the
mother beets) until after the nymphs began to hatch cut. In fact, in
almost every case examined the cast skins of nymphs could be found
on the back of curled leaves, while on healthy beets these were very
seldom found. In all observations of both years more leafhoppers
were found on the curled beets than on others. At first this was
thought to show a gregarious habit in the adult, but it may be due to
the fact that a given female lays most of her eggs on a single plant
and the nymphs tend to remain there. In /Hwtettix strobi and the
other leaf-curling forms, where the nymphs are brightly colored and
depend on their discolored spots for protection, it is not unusual for
a given nymph to pass its whole life on a single leaf, or on two or
three adjoining ones; in most cases but a single nymph will be found
on a plant, and sometimes the adult and the nymphal skin of each
stage may be found under a single leaf. It is very likely that the
same habit persists in H'utettix tenella and that this fact, in part at

66—IV

46 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

least, accounts for one beet being badly affected while the adjacent
ones are unharmed. In the case of Hutettiv strobi and its allies,
where most of the leaves of a small plant are affected by the dis-
tortion, the plant usually shrivels up and dies, but where only one or
two leaves on a large plant are distorted the plant does not appear
to be affected at all, and in no case does the color appear in any of
the new leaves. In several cases small beets have been seen in which
every leaf has been deformed by the work of strobi, and they had
apparently stopped growing.

In the case of the “ curly-leaf,” however, the abnormal condition
apparently spreads from leaf to leaf until finally the whole plant is
affected, even though the leafhoppers may have disappeared before
the process is complete. This was abundantly demonstrated by the
mother beets set out in the spring of 1906. These beets were selected
from the best-looking beets of 1905, and would naturally have been
ones that showed little or no effect of the “ curly-leaf” the season
before. In every case observed the first leaves sent up by these beets
were as curly as the average of the vear before, and most of them
formed stunted lettucelike heads, and later withered and died. Some,
however, survived through the season, and a few sent up stunted blos-
som stalks, but as a seed crop they were an entire failure. This curl-
ing took place before any leafhoppers were found in the beets, and
in rows adjoining young beets that were not at all affected and did
not become affected during the season. This would indicate that the
agency, whatever it may be, that causes “ curly-leaf ” remained in the
beet itself over winter and was transmitted to the first leaves in the
spring.

In early September, 1907, the sugar-beet region around Spreckels,
Cal., was visited by the writer and a number of cases of what was
commonly called “ blight ” or “ curly-leaf” were examined. These,
however, proved to be quite different in character from the “ curly-
leaf” condition caused by Hutettiv tenella. The leaves of the beet
were found to be covered with pale spots, the edges were turned down
instead of up, and the whole appearance was quite different. A care-
ful search was made over many acres for specimens of tenella, but
none was found; instead a species of Empoasca was always found
associated with this appearance of the beets. The matter will be dis-
cussed further in connection with that species (p. 51).

OTHER RECORDS.

Prof. E. G. Titus reports that on a trip through the sugar-beet
regions of the West in September, 1904, he found Hutettix tenella
at La Grande and Echo, Oreg. At La Grande little damage was done,
while at Echo one field of 10 acres was so seriously injured by what

66—IvV

Bul. 66, Pt. lV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE IV.

“s a
<>
ee

uk?
di

WoRK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

Fig. 1.—A field of beets destroyed by ‘‘curly-leaf.’ Figs. 2, 3.—Cages used in the life-history
experiments. (Original.)

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 47

was then called “blight” that it was not harvested. Many of the
beets had died and the rest were small and stunted, while the leaf-
hoppers could be swept up in numbers.

In California “ curly-leaf ” conditions were seen by Professor Titus
at Oxnard and Spreckels and reported to be quite serious on the higher
lands back of Salinas. Whether this was the true “ curly-leaf ” or the
type found there this year was not determined.

In August, 1907, another trip was made by him through the same
territory and a few specimens of H'utettix tenella taken at Payette,
Idaho. Little damage was being done that season, but field men re-
ported considerable loss in 1905 in both Payette and Blackfoot, Idaho.
A few EF. tenella were taken at Union, Oreg., and Echo, Oreg., in
August, 1907, only slight damage showing in either place. Large
nymphs were taken with the adults.

In California a number of places were visited by Professor Titus in
August, 1907, but no specimens of Eutettix taken. In September
another trip through the California districts was made, and a few
specimens of £. tenella were taken at Chino on the 13th. No very
definite cases of “ curly-leaf ” were noticed.

ECONOMIC SUMMARY AND PROPOSED REMEDIES.

The “ curly-leaf” condition or “ blight ” of the sugar beet, as it
occurs in Utah and the surrounding region, appears soon after an
attack of the beet leafhopper (Hutettix tenella Baker). Its severity
is conditional upon the number of insects present, upon the time of
their appearance, upon the size of the beets, and upon the temperature
of the surface soil, together with the temperature and moisture of
the surrounding air.

More should be known about the places of hibernation and early
spring history of this insect. It could not be found in the rubbish
around the fields in early spring, and only a few specimens were found
in waste places up to the time they appeared on the beets. When once
the place where the greater number of them pass the winter is discov-
ered, it may be possible to destroy them there or on their spring food
plants before they migrate to the beets. After they have appeared
on the beets it will be necessary to be very prompt in the matter of
remedies if the injury is to be prevented. A thorough spraying with
kerosene emulsion at a strength of 1 part of the stock solution? to 5
parts of water would destroy most of the insects that it hit, and by
using a drag in front of the nozzles to turn the leaves over and cause
the insects to jump, most of them could be reached. Where the insects

“Yor directions regarding the preparation and use of kerosene emulsion see
Farmers’ Bulletin 127, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture, pp. 20-21, and Circular 80,
Bureau of Entomology.

66—I1V

48 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

were coming in in numbers this spray would need to be followed by a
second one 10 days later.

Several mechanical devices have been used to catch different leaf-
hoppers, and no doubt several of these could be used against this insect
with advantage. The tar pan, or “ hopper-dozer,” drawn over the
beets two or three times in the first few weeks would capture a large
number of them. The females, before the eggs are laid, are quite
heavy and do not jump or fly as readily as the males and would be
easily caught. A modified form of this machine, consisting of a
couple of tarred wings to be drawn along on each side of a row of
beets, while a drag agitated the tops and caused the insects to fly,
would probably capture more than the simpler tar-pan.

Tf the insects appeared while the beets were quite small, they could
be largely destroyed by rolling when the weather was cold or damp
and the insects sluggish.

A number of preventive measures may be used to assist the beets
in withstanding the attack of the leafhoppers. In some sections early
planting will produce beets large enough to shade the ground by the
time the beet leafhoppers appear, and thus reduce the temperature
below the danger line. In a few places, like the Grand Junction dis-

‘trict in Colorado and Sevier County in Utah, early planting alone
would not avail, as the insects appear soon after the earliest beets
come through the ground. For such sections early and frequent irri-
gations would assist in keeping the ground cool until the beets grew
large enough to shade it and thus take care of themselves.

All preventive measures will depend for success upon some method
of controlling the temperature in the field so that the ground may not
be hot and dry at the time the leafhoppers appear.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES.

1895. GritertTr, C. P., and C. F. BAkrErR.—A preliminary list of the Hemiptera
of Colorado.<Bul. 31, Colo. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 100.
On sugar beets in Colorado. Mention as Thamnotettix tenellus Uhl. MSS.
1896. Baker, C. F.—New Hemiptera. <Psyche, Vol. VII, Suppl., p. 24.
Species described from New Mexico as Thamnotettizr sonelliis n. as
1900. Forpes, S. A., and C. A. Hart.—The economic _Sntemenies of the sugar
beet. <Bul. 60, Ill. Agric. Exp. Sta., pp. 423, 528.
On sugar beets in Colorado. Mention as Hutettix eneila Bak.
1903. CHITTENDEN, F. H.—Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. f. 1902, p. 730, 1903.
Mention. ‘‘ Reported as pri to sugar beet in Arizona.”
1906. Howarp, L. O.—Yearbook U. 8. Dept. Agric. f. 1905, p. 680, 1906.
Injury in Utah. Mention as “Butettio stricta Ball.
1907. Bayt, E. D.—Report of the entomologist. <16th Rept. Utah Agric. Exp.
Sta., p. 16.
Character of injury and damages in 1905. Mention as Hutettix tenella Bak.
1907. Batu, E. D.—The genus Eutettix. <Proc. Davenport Acad. Sci., Vol. VII,
pp. pr Pls. I-IV.
A systematic and economic review of the group, with original illustrations.
66—I1V

‘i

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 49
OTHER LEAFHOPPERS.

Seven species of leafhoppers of the genus Eutettix besides tenella
are known to have definite food plants related to the sugar beet, and
several more, the food plant of which is not known, will probably be
found to have similar habits. All of these species will no doubt be
found on the sugar beet as fast as its cultivation is extended into the
regions where these insects occur. The following species of Eutettix
are already known to occur on the beet, and are arranged in about
the order of their present importance.

Eutettix strobi Fitch—The nymphs of F'utettix strobi are thickly
spotted with red, giving them a strongly reddish appearance. They
are found on Chenopodium album (PI. I, fig. 2, 2) and are confined
strictly to the underside of the leaf. The attack produces a red dis-
coloration and a curling of the leaf, which serves as a double protec-
tion for the insect. There are two broods in a season, the nymphs
appearing in late May and early June and maturing from the middle
of June into July. The adults of this brood are common from the
middle of June through July. Nymphs appear again late in July,
from which adults appear late in August, and more commonly in
September. This species was carefully studied through the first brood
in 1906. Then the area under observation was pastured and the
record lost. The Colorado records agree with last year’s work for the
first brood, and furnish data for the second one. Prof. Herbert
Osborn ¢ first called attention to the red coloring of the leaves. It
has been noticed many times since. This is, no doubt, the Allygus sp.
of Bruner.” Forbes and Hart have mistaken the nymph for that of
Phlepsius irroratus Say. The larva of P. irroratus, however, is brown-
ish and fuscous and lives on the ground. F'utettia strobi has been found
on beets (PI. I, fig. 2, 4) in a number of places in Colorado and Utah,
nearly all of them, however, around the margins of fields. In one
place the insects had appeared on the beets when they were quite
small, and had been numerous enough to deform every leaf on a
number of beets and entirely stop their growth.

Eutettiz scitula Ball (P1. I, fig. 3).—Hutettia scitula is a white
species with a brown saddle and brown pronotum. The nymphs are
of a powdery pink color and live on the underside of the Cheno-
podium leaf in the same way that those of Lutettix strobi do, except
that the discolorations are lighter. This species is apparently
two-brooded. The first brood has been carefully worked out, but
only adults have been observed in the fall. The broods appear about
the same time as those of /. stvobi. This is a western species occur-

@Science Vol. X, p. 166, 1887.
> Bul. 23, o. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 17, 1891.
¢ Bul. 60, Ill. Agric. Exp, Sta., p. 424, 1900.

66—IV

50 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

ring in Colorado and Utah and has been found on sugar beets only
at Grand Junction, Colo. The adults of the species are almost in-
variably found on poplar trees, and it seems probable that the eggs
are deposited on twigs of the trees and that the nymphs drop to the
ground to find a home on the Chenopodium. The adults of Lutettix
strobi and #’. seminuda are often found on trees and may have the
same habit. In the case of /. strobt and EF’. scitula, nearly all in-
stances of bad infestation have been near trees. In the case of Z.
scitula these have been poplars, but two of the worst instances of
injury from Z’. strobi were alongside apple trees.

Eutetti« seminuda Say.—EHutettix seminuda 1s a white insect with
a brown saddle. It occurs from Kansas east to the Atlantic coast.
The nymphs are pale, with a brown saddle on the abdomen and some
brown on the thorax. Nothing is known as to their native food plant,
but from the close relationship to the preceding species it is likely
that it will prove to be a Chenopodium. There are two broods in a
season, the first one appearing slightly earlier than in the case of Z.
strobi. Eutettia seminuda has been reported on beets in Illinois. It
does not occur in the West, where the writer has worked on beets.

Kutettie clarivida Van Duzee (PI. I, fig. 4, a, b, c, d).—Futettia
clarivida is a green species with four black points on the margin of
the vertex. It occurs very commonly on the shad scale (Atriplex
confertifolia) and on one or two other species of the same genus in
the arid regions. It has been found on beets at Grand Junction, Colo.
The nymphs are green, with two black spots on the vertex. The life
history is not known.

Kutettia insana Ball (PI. I, fig. 7), #. albtda Ball, and 2. pauper-
culata Ball occur on different species of Atriplex.in the arid regions,
and may be expected to occur on the beets.

Eutettix stricta Ball (PI. I, fig. 8, a, 6) is an Arizona species and
the nearest relative of /. tenella that we know. There is probably
more danger from this than from any other species of the group,
if the sugar beet should be introduced within its range.

All the species of Agalla in a given section will be found attack-
ing the sugar beet more or less. Several of the species seem to be
almost omnivorous in food habits, but where they do show a pref-
erence it is for the relatives of the beet. For two of the species
(cinerea and bigeloviw) a definite food plant is known, and in both
cases they are close relatives of the beet. The species of Agallia are
divided into two groups, based on structural and life-history charac-
ters. In one group, which includes sanguinolenta, uhleri, cinerea, and
bigeloviw, they seem to prefer warm and rather dry situations, the
adults hibernating and spreading over the heet fields in the spring in
time to lay their eggs and produce their single brood of young there.

66—IV

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BERT. 5]

Agallia sanguinolenta Prov. is the most abundant species of the ge-
nus in the western country and is found in all fields. Together with
A. uhleri this species has been observed to do considerable damage in
the Arkansas Valley, in Colorado, and around Lehi, in Utah. The
nymphs appear early in June and mature in the last half of July and
the first half of August, a few running on through the month.

Agallia cinerea Osborn and Ball is found almost exclusively on the
“shad scale” of desert regions, and from this adults often fly

‘to near-by fields of beets. It was common at Grand Junction

and Loma, Colo., and at Monroe, Utah. Under the hot desert condi-
tions the nymphs appear in June and mature the last half of July,
while on the beets they do not mature until some time later.

Agallia bigelovie Baker occurs in abundance on a tall species of
sea-blite (Dondia) growing on alkaline soil, and has been found in
the beet fields at Grand Junction and Palisades, Colo.

Agallia quadripunctata Proy. and A. novella Say belong to the
other group of the genus and pass the winter as partially grown
nymphs, which change to adults in late May and June. The nymphs
appear again in August and develop slowly until fall, when they
hibernate. These two species and A. sanguinolenta are discussed by
Osborn and Ball (Iowa Experiment Station Report for 1897, p. 112),
the nymphs and adults being figured and the life histories given. The
dates given there are, however, too early for western conditions.
This group thrives best in damp situations where rank vegetation
abounds, and will not do any serious damage to beets unless planted
alongside places of this character, from which the nymphs can mi-
grate in early spring. By the time the adults are mature and ready
to fly, the beets are well started and beyond their injury.

Empoasca sp.—A large number of adults of a small green m-
poasca were found on sugar beets at Spreckels, Cal., in early Septem-
ber by Prof. E. G. Titus and the writer. The beet crop was not
seriously injured, but a number of beets were found in which there
was a slight curling of the leaves resembling “ curly-leaf,” except that
in this case the edges of the leaf turned down rather than up, and
the surface of the leaf, instead of being roughened, was covered with
small pale spots. This pale spotting of the leaves is quite charac-
teristic of the injury of the Empoascas and their relatives and is com-
monly seen on apple and rose leaves. The insects were all adults at
this time, so that it was impossible to be certain that they had bred
on the beets, but from the appearance of the leaves it is probable that
they had. The nymphs of nearly all of this group are slender, pale-
greenish forms and are found mostly on the underside of the leaf,
while the white spots caused by their punctures show more plainly on
the upper surface.

66—IVv

52 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Professor Titus reports finding an Empoasca common on beets at
Chino, Cal., in August, 1907, and states that the beet leaves showed
the characteristic spotted appearance, but that no curling was noticed.
In his trip in 1904 Empoascas were noticed in several places in Cali-
fornia, and quite serious damage from “blight” or “ curly-leaf”
was found in a few places, but the particular nature of the injury
was not observed.

The Empoaseas nearly all pass the winter as adults, hibernating in
rubbish and sheltered places near their food plants. In the spring
they feed on anything that offers until their food plants start, and
then they gather on them, laying eggs in early summer. The young
nymphs feed on the underside of the leaf and are quite active and
keep out of sight.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion, 1 part of the stock solution to 8
parts of water, proved to be a satisfactory remedy for an Empoasca
on potatoes in Iowa some years ago, and no doubt could be used on the
beets with success. Burning off rubbish around the field in the late
fall would probably reduce their numbers.

CONCLUSIONS IN REGARD TO “ CURLY-LEAF.”

Asa result of the above investigations, it appears that there are at
least two distinct kinds of “ curly-leaf” that have been confused
under one name. One, in which the leaves become rough and warty
and curl up and in which the beet is stunted and does not recover ; the
other, in which the leaves remain smooth but show numerous pale
spots and in which the edges turn down, and in which, as far as known,
the injury is confined to the leaves attacked. The first-mentioned kind
of “ curly-leaf ” occurs from Grand Junction, Colo., west to the Pacific
coast and is the one that has been seriously injurious in the inter-
mountain region. This condition is brought about by the attack of
the beet leafhopper (utettix tenella), and will, no doubt, be confined,
for some time at least, to the southwestern part of the United States,
the native home of this insect. The second kind of “ curly-leaf ” has
been found in California quite commonly, and doubtless will be found
to occur sparingly at least in the eastern part of the United States, or
wherever an Empoasca attacks the sugar beet.

Besides these two types of this injury it is quite possible that in
rare cases other types with still other causes have been seen and not
recognized at the time as distinct. Investigations in the California
field have been so meager that it is impossible to say as yet which
type has caused the greatest injury. In the intermountain region,
where most of the work has been done, practically all the injury is
known to have been caused by the first type.

66—IV

O

——e iv

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY BULLETIN No. 66, Part V.

L.O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

~)
SN

ne
F¥. H. CHITTENDEN anp H. M. RUSSELL.

Issued JANUARY 28, 1909.

©)
205170
WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1 9:0:9..

CONTENTS

Enbroduction 2.s 6-220 + SG. eee aati a ee 2 ite ee eee See
IDESCHIP LUV, ssp eS OS Se ee ae oe Ae ep ee ee
Origin and distribution -..-.-- Mord ik Be CEE SHES oe a oe ee
hiterature and "history 22 5.23 fs see oa ea en
Recent injuries and, biologic motes = -=25. &.2 2. hae: Aeon noe ee
Manlyirecords. 4025) J: ye iey' 33 Fab a. cee ee ee
ite-cycle‘periods and generations - 2-2... 2. 2 5. eee
Natural enemiess.o2-. 4 128 sive te ee Rete sah eee
Methods:of control eis 2 S292 tebe ce tig s atte teed a ee 5
iRésume oh experiments; and conclhisions-2 52 4--- 5-62 s4esee ese eee
UNM ATY2! Rio' cle Sag nein Sapien ete he ot cere tee ee
Bibliographical list. so2 2 eo ce ees seek Bee See ee ae eee eee eee ose

LLU UST RAAO NS

Fic. 8. Thesemitropical army worm ( Prodeniaeridania) : Moth, egg, egg-mass,
a foto] gs-

NARVGCLs,s oo kie eee et hn cot Meee eases Dh ae eee ee
9. The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): Work of laryee on
‘“careless weed’? ‘impotato field’. 2° 2222452525 2 2s eee
10. The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): Field of late Irish
potatoes, showing vines entirely stripped by larvee...............-

11. The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): Larvee eating bark of
‘‘carsless weed;’’ also nymph of spined soldier-bug (Podisus macu-
liventris), predaceous on larvie of Prodenia eridania ....---- osentosee

66—V

iW

Page.

54

59

60

61

eer Pe
, NL oa

_——

ERRATA.

Page 65, line 15 from bottom, for fresh air-slaked read freshly slaked.
Page 68, line 8, for 6 read 50.

CASAD: A.B. BH. Bul. 66,-Part V. Issued January 28, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

(Prodenia eridania Cram. )
By F. H. CHirrenpEN and H. M. RUSSELL.

INTRODUCTION.

During the summer of 1907 a smooth or hairless caterpillar (/7o-
denia eridania Cram.) related to the cotton cutworm came under the
observation of the junior author at Orlando, Fla. It was observed
attacking the foliage and, in many cases, the stems and fruits of all
forms of garden truck grown in that vicinity, the lst including
tomato, potato, sweet-potato, eggplant, pepper, okra, collards, and
cowpeas. The infestation was of considerable severity, and great in-
jury was done in fields and gardens in that and in some other regions
of Florida, notably at St. Augustine and on the west coast of the
Manatee River. What is believed to be the same species was reported
injurious in Porto Rico by Mr. W. V. Tower. <Aside-from a brief
notice which has been made of the present invasion there does not
appear to be any other record of the injurious habits of this species;
hence the following account has been prepared for publication by the
senior author. The chapters on recent injuries, natural enemies, and
experiments with remedies have been compiled from the junior au-
thor’s notes. The technical descriptions of the egg and larva have
been prepared by Dr. H. G. Dyar, while other assistance in the prep-
aration of this article is duly acknowledged in its proper’ place.

In ordinary seasons the species under consideration confines itself
largely to weeds, among which are the poke-weed, spiny amaranth
or careless weed of the South, and a wild Solanum. It has habits
different from those of the northern cutworms and can searcely be
classified with the climbing cutworms, although it has the climbing
habit. It has a decided tendency to travel in armies like the army
worms and is practically confined to semitropical regions. It 1s
remarkable as being injurious throughout the warm season and breed-
ing continuously, there being evidently at least four generations a
year in nature.

66—v Ds

we

54 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The adult is a noctuid moth, and while the larva is quite readily
referable to the genus Prodenia, the moth has little of the appear-
ance of our other two North American species.‘

The moth.—The adult or moth has a wing expanse of nearly 15
inches (33-38"™"); the fore-wings are dull gray, sprinkled and
dotted with brownish and black scales forming a pattern as shown
in figure 8, d. There is considerable variability in these markings,
some individuals having a strongly marked reniform spot, a very
prominent blackish posterior marginal line, and a similar black line

Iie. 8.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): a, Egg-mass on leaf; b,
egg, much enlarged, showing lateral view at right and top at left; c, section of egg;
d, moth; e, dark form of larva nearly grown; f, g, larva, full-grown. a, d—g, En-
larged; b, highly magnified; c, more magnified. (Original.)

on the latero-posterior margin. Individuals also oceur in which

there is a straight, broad, jet-black dash or band beginning at the

middle of the fore-wing and extending to the lateral margin. This
is the nigrofascia of Hulst. The hind-wings are pearly white above,
this pearly luster being still stronger below. The body is brownish
gray and the antenne are yellowish brown.

The darkest forms of this species are marked very much as in the
genus Acronycta.

The eggs—The eggs are deposited in irregular masses, as shown
in figure 8, a, closely placed together, sometimes in two layers and

« Prodenia ornithogalli Guen. (cotton cutworm”) and P. commeline 8. & A.

66—vV

—_—
; =%

THE SEMITROPICAL .ARMY WORM. 55

covered with whitish down, from the body of the female. They are
distinctly green when first deposited and have the appearance illus-
trated at ) and c.

The larva—The caterpillar resembles that of the other two species
of Prodenia sufficiently to be naturally referred to that genus, and
it is subject to similar variation in color. The ground color is dark
grayish in pale individuals and nearly black in the dark forms.
These. latter, especially when approaching maturity in the penulti-
mate stage, are sometimes so dark as to resemble Mamestra. The
body is ornamented with a narrow, slightly interrupted, median yel-
low longitudinal dorsal stripe, a similar slightly wider dorso-median
stripe, and a wide and brighter yellow substigmatal stripe, which
becomes obscured in the thoracic segments of the penultimate stage.
In the very dark forms the triangular velvety dorsal spots character-
istic of the genus can scarcely be seen, and in the paler forms they are
seldom as distinct as in the other two species. When full-grown the
larva measures about an inch and a fourth to an inch and a half in
length (25-37™™), and the width varies from one-fourth of an inch
to a little larger. The head measures nearly 2.5™™,

The mature larva is illustrated at f and g of figure 8 and a dark
form nearly grown at e.

The pupa—The pupa resembles closely that of Prodenia comme-
line. The head and abdomen are well rounded. The color is
mahogany-brown, with the head, spiracles, and anterior edges of the
abdominal segments darker. The surface is smooth and shining,
with the anterior edges of the abdominal segments finely punctured.
The anal segment terminates in a two-spined cremaster-like process.
Length, 16-18 ™™: width, 5-6 ™™; length of head to end of the wing-
cases, 10™™.

The following technical description of the egg and larval stages
was kindly contributed by Dr. H. G. Dyar.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE EGG AND LARVAL STAGES.

The egg.—Hemispherical, smooth, pale green, shining; ribs very fine,
obscure, numerous, ill-defined, radiating from the micropyle; cross-strize imper-
ceptible. Diameter, 0.6™, Laid in a patch, covered by a thin layer of whitish
wool,

Stage I.—Head rounded, bilobed, mouth pointed, shining greenish-black :
eyes black, mouth brown; width about 0.5™™, Body robust, uniform, joint 12
slightly enlarged, feet of joints 7 and 8 a little smaller than the others and not
used in walking; translucent greenish, cervical shield, leg plates, thoracic feet,
anal plate, and the large round tubercles shining black: tubercles i and ii of
joint 12 in a square; sete rather coarse, moderate, black, simple. ;

Stage J/[.—Uead rounded, slightly bilobed, the vertex level with joint 2, shin-
ing luteous, blackish shaded over the vertices of the lobes; ocelli black, mouth
brown, width, 0.4™". Body somewhat thickened at joints 5 and 12, feet normal,
equal; greenish luteous, cervical shield and anal plate blackish infuscated ;

66—V

56 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

tubercles rather large, low-conical, black; leg shields slightly smoky; tubercle
vi present; a large red blotch around tubercles i and iv on joints 5 and 12;
sete short, black, stiff; traces of a white dorsal line showing especially by the
cut between the red blotches at tubercle i of joint 5; no other lines.

Stage J1J.—Head rounded, the vertex just within joint 5, pale reddish over
the lobes and sides, luteous on the face, shining, very small in proportion to the
body; width, 0.6"™". Body robust, slightly thickened at joint 5, more so at
joint 12; feet normal; pale green; a straight dorsal and a subdorsal white
line and traces of a broken lateral one; subventral region slightly pale, without
defined line; tubercles small, black; a large, vinous, somewhat elevated blotch
on tubercles i and ivy on joint 5 and on tubercle i on joint 12, more diffusely
about the spiracle on joints 11-12; anal feet reddish; cervical shield small,
infuscated, cut by three white lines; anal plate blackish; thoracic feet blackish,
abdominal ones greenish.

Stage I1V.—Head rounded, rather quadrate, not notched, the clypeus high,
vertex even with joint 2; pale red, paler on the clypeus, ocelli and antennz
dark; width 1.0"". Body robust, thickened at joints 5 and 12, feet equal;
blackish olivaceous, dorsal and subdorsal lines straight, yellowish white, edged
with vinous dottings; traces of a lateral line; subventral region paler below
the spiracles, especially after joint 5; large blackish-red blotches at tubercles
i and iy on joint 5 and on joint 12 and tubercle i and stigmatally on joints 11-12;
white dotting in the ground color most conspicuous stigmatally; thoracic feet
black, abdominal ones pale, anal pair reddish.

Stage V.—Head quadrate, rounded, slightly bilobed, shining light red-brown,
the clypeus high; ocelli and sete black: width, 1.6™". Body thickened at
joints 5 and 12, feet equal, normal, the abdominal ones pale, slightly infuscated,
the thoracic ones black-ringed; dark gray to black, strigose-dotted with white;
dorsal line narrow, subdorsal broader, straight, even, yellowish white, centered
with reddish mottlings, cutting the sooty-black cervical shield, but not the anal
plate; a quadrate black patch between the lines on joint 5, a small angular one
next the subdorsal line on all the other segments, large on joint 12 and shaded
across; a narrow white-dotted lateral line, scarcely different from the dots of
the ground color; subventral band straight, yellow-white, broad, broken at joint
5, reddish-filled around the spiracles, black spots at tubercles iii with a distinet
white dot below; subventral region of thorax blackish, of abdomen paler, white-
dotted.

Stage VI.—Head rounded, quadrate, about as high as wide, slightly bilobed,
the vertex level with joint 2: clypeus high and large; red-brown, darker
reticulate, mouth parts concolorous, ocelli black; width 2.1 to 24™™. Body
“robust, cylindrical, tapering from joint 5 to joint 2, the head small; joint 5
slightly, joint 12 distinctly, enlarged and abruptly tapered to joint 13; black,
strigose-dotted with white; cervical shield deep black, white-dotted, cut by three
white lines; anal plate similar, small, cut by the dorsal line only; dorsal line
narrow, black-dotted and broken, yellowish white, reddish on the centers of the
segments; subdorsal line broader, straight, yellow-white, reddish centered on
the segments, with a median row of gray dots, but not incised on the margins;
a row of segmental black triangles above it, free of white dots, largest on joint
5, the one on joint 12 now scarcely larger than that on joint 11; upper half of
the lateral area grayer, with many white dots, lower half blacker, with few
dots on joints 5 to 13, separated by a row of brighter dots representing the
lateral line; on joints 2 to 5 this distinction is weakly developed; spiracles in a
blacker shade with a white dot abeve tubercle iv; substigmatal band broad,
eyen, undulate, weak and broadly gray, centered on joints 2 to 5, fading out at

66—YV

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. aH}

joint 5, sharply reappearing at joint 5 posteriorly, then pale yellow, centered
with blackish mottlings at the centers of the segments and red above these:
subventral region black-shaded, strongly so on joints 2 to 5, weakly on the ab-
domen, white-dotted, paling to the venter; thoracic feet dark brown, the ab-
dominal ones pale brown, shining; a single cylindrical, round-tipped neck gland
reaching to the end of the labial palpi; crochets of abdominal feet in a single
row, dark; tubercle iv slightly above middle of spiracle on joint 7. [Harrison
G. Dyar.]
ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION.

This is a Lower Austral form and probably of tropical origin. In
v 5
the National Museum are specimens from Cocoanut Grove, Crescent
City, and Orlando, Fla. The species is also recorded from Talla-
hassee, and reported from St. Augustine and the region about the
Manatee River in Florida. From Texas we have specimens from Bos-
que County (Belfrage) and Dallas, and there are specimens col-
lected at Pernambuco, Benito Province, Brazil, by Mr. Albert Koebele.
? ? ©

Dr. J. B. Smith records the insect from Georgia and Central and
South America, and Grote records it from California. This indi-
cates a range extending from Brazil to Mexico, Central America, and
the Antilles, and from Florida westward through the Gulf region and
Texas to California.

LITERATURE AND HISTORY.

Considering the fact that this species is really common in the
South and that it feeds gregariously and voraciously, it is somewhat
remarkable that it has not hitherto attracted attention by its depre-
dations. The moth was described by Pierre Cramer in 1782. 1'4
Its natural food plants were known to Smith and Abbot, who wrote
of it in their classic work published in 1797.2 The illustration ac-
companying that work, though over-colored as usual, depicts a per-
fectly recognizable moth of this species but a too-brilliant and light-
colored larva. Light and dark forms of the moth are figured. The
species is mentioned as Phalwna phytolacce and is compared witb the
related Prodenia commeline and Laphygma frugiperda, which form
the subject of the two plates and pages immediately preceding the
account of phytolacce.

As Smith and Abbot’s work is not accessible to many, the following
copy of their account of this insect is republished:

PHALZNA PHYTOLACCA. Poke-weed moth.

Phytolacca decandra. Linn. Virginian poke-weed.

Ph. Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis deflexis: primoribus fusco striatis
puncto obscuro margine postico nigro maculato; anteriori punctato,

@Numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numerals in the appended
bibliographical list (p. 70).
66—V

58 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Feeds on the Poke, Careless, &c. It went into the ground July the 5th, and
eame out the 16th. I once met this caterpillar in such abundance, that among
a great quantity of Poke plants there was scarcely a single leaf untouched ;
most of these caterpillars, however, were fly-blown by a kind of Jcehnewmon.
The moth is rare.

This is allied-to our Ph. frugiperda and Commeline, Between the under
wings of all these there is the greatest affinity. Their pupe too are of a
similar bright red color, and their smooth-striped caterpillars have much
resemblance to each other.

RECENT INJURIES AND BIOLOGIC NOTES.

On May 14, 1907, this species was observed on the leaves of tomato
in the truck garden of Mr. C. M. Berry, at Orlando, Fla., where it
was eating holes in the leaves. Numbers of plants, here and there.
were infested and in most cases the entire plant was injured. The
same larva was observed on pokeweed (Phytolacca decandra), and
afterwards on spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus). By May 20
the larve were scattering and had grown rapidly, some being an
inch long. While young, these larve feed on the underside of the
leaf, but with larger growth some were noticed feeding on the upper
surface as well.

May 24 an egg-mass was found on a leaf of the spiny amaranth,
laid in two sections on the under surface, one on each side of the
midrib. One mass had hatched at this time and the larve were be-
ginning to eat pinlike holes through the leaf.

On July 3 a field of Irish potatoes was found to be very badly in-
fested by these larve. They were now nearly full-grown and had
stripped the potato vines, many being observed crawling away from
the field in all directions. On one side they infested a garden at
least 600 feet away, and were feeding upon eggplant, pepper, okra,
and castor-oil plants.

Some interesting notes were made on the abundance of this species
in this potato field. On a single young plant of Amaranthus, 41
larve were counted, and as many as 314 on a plant measuring 6 feet
in height. A careful estimate of the larve on 10 plants of careless
weed, not over 6 feet in height, gave a total of 1,800 individuals.
(See fig. 9.)

To illustrate the voracity of these larve, where any potatoes were
exposed, they were soon covered by the larvee and the entire contents
eaten out so that they were rendered worthless in about ten minutes.
About this same date, July 3, the larve were reported making quick
work of amaranth; whenever a branch became broken from any
cause, larve: entered atthe break and excavated tunnels several
inches in length. Pokeweed was entirely stripped of leaves, the
stalks and the shoots being eaten off at the outer end. Potatoes dug

66—YV

fae

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 59

at this time were frequently found full of holes, the work of these
larve. The following day, July 4, the amaranth was almost com-
pletely denuded, illustrating the rapid work of this species when in
large numbers (see figs. 10, 11). By July 8 the larve had almost
completed their work in the field, after having eaten everything
clean. Many were full grown and had commenced to enter the

ground. July 9 the potato field was stripped, the vines were dead

and dry, and the larve had almost disappeared. The ground was
full of pupee, none of them at a greater depth than 4 inches, and in

Fic. 9.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) ; Work of larve on * careless
weed ” in potato field; 311 larve were on this plant when photographed. (Original.)

many cases only 2 inches. Upon digging into the hills, it was found
that they did not average more than four good-sized potatoes to the
hill, and in many cases these had been rendered useless by the inroads
of the larve. (This crop averaged small because of late planting.)

Many larve were found feeding on sweet potatoes at Mr. John M.
Cheney’s place at this time, most of them still in young stages. A
few fully matured larvie also were found, showing the overlapping
of the two generations; in fact, observations conducted both in the

66—Vv

64752—Bull. 66, pt 5—09——-2

60 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

field and at the insectary at Washington, D. C., show that this
species is undoubtedly a continuous breeder, as in the case of the
variegated cutworm (Peridroma margaritosa Haw.), the larve being
present in the field throughout the long summer season of the South.
July 30, by request of the county commissioner, Mr. H. H. Dick-
son, the junior author went to the County Home and found a sweet-
potato patch badly infested, thousands of larve present, and the
leaves turning brown and drying out. Superintendent Harris stated
that an earlier brood did great damage to cowpeas, but this could
not be verified by specimens. In the sweet-potato field the larvee
started on the south side and, after stripping the first four or five
rows, moved over to the next rows and eventually infested the entire

POS

achat aR
ee Nc ee

Fic. 10.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) : Field of late Irish potatoes
showing vines entirely stripped by larve; Orlando, Fla., July 6,.1907. (Original.)
field. A Mr. Porter, near the County Home, reported 5 acres
stripped in three days after the larve were noticed at work, these
having started at one side of the field and swept it clean. The
larve of a third generation were observed at Mr. Cheney’s place at
this time; most of them, however, had already gone into the earth

to transform.

August 3, adults that had pupated about July 25 began to emerge.
Thus the pupal period occupied about nine days. At this time a
number of young larvee were noted feeding upon amaranth, wild
Solanum, and castor-oil plants. When disturbed they dropped and
hung by threads.

66—V

\

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 61

By the first of September Mr. Cheney's patch of sweet potatoes was
entirely free from this insect, evidently owing largely to parasites
and to the spraying with arsenate of lead.

August 30, 1907, Mr. Wm. Donnell, St. Augustine, Fla., reported
that a cutworm, which he identified as this species, had been very
destructive in that region, being especially abundant on beets, and

Fic. 11.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) : Larve eating bark of “ care-
less weed; also nymph of Podisus maculiventris, predaceous on the larye. (Origi-
nal.)

later affecting cabbage, carrots (by eating the tops), and some other
plants, its operations being most noticeable at night.

Mr. E. L. Worsham, while employed by this Bureau, noticed this
species on the west coast, near the Manatee River, in Florida, and
reported it working quite extensively in that region in August.

On November 23, 1907, an egg-mass was found on pokeweed at
Dade City, Fla., and December 2 another was observed, from which

66—Vv

62 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the larve hatched December 4. These molted between December 10
and 13, while being transported to Orlando, but soon died, as frost
killed off the food plants.

July 25, 1908, Mr. H. H. Dickson asked for a remedy to apply
against the larve on sweet potatoes at the Orlando Truck Farm.

Ege-masses received May 24, 1907, hatched at that time and the
larvee entered the earth in the rearing cage June 19. In dry sand the
pupe were found at a considerable depth, but in moist sand they
were found barely under the surface.

July 8 larve in the rearing-cage were almost full grown. Larvee
hatching from egg-masses, and others a few days old, were also
found in abundance on sweet-potato plants. As soon as hatched
they separate, feeding on the leaf on which the egg-mass was laid,
perforating the underside full of minute holes, and leaving only the
upper epidermis, which turns brown. On growing larger they sep-
arate, as in the case of most caterpillars, except those of peculiarly
eregarious habit, and soon become widely scattered. Even when
abundant it is common to see eight or a dozen on the underside of a
single leaf, and frequently as many as an hundred. Occasionally a
nearly full-grown larva feeds on the upper side of a leaf. In many
cases large larvee were found hiding during the day at the bottom of
furrows.

June 15, 1908, the larve of this insect were found to be very abund-
ant at Orlando, Fla., in one part of the town feeding on pokeweed,
and in another on amaranth.

EARLY RECORDS.

Among the records of the Bureau of Entomology is one of May 22,
1887, when larvee and pups were received from Mr. E. A. Schwarz
with report that the species was very injurious to the eggplant at
Cocoanut Grove, Fla.

In September, 1905, Mr. F. C. Pratt. sent to the Bureau a large
colony of the larvee found feeding on pokeweed at Dallas, Tex., the
moths from which began to issue September 26.

LIFE-CYCLE PERIODS AND GENERATIONS.

Larve mailed from Orlando, Fla., July 3, arrived at Washington,
D. C., July 5 and began to enter the earth for pupation the following
day. On the 16th two had transformed to pup, on the day “ollow-
ing three more, and the remainder transformed within a week. This
experiment shows a pupal period of about 9 days, allowing 1 day for
the larve in the earth before pupating. The weather was quite hot.
In a cooler temperature in August the pupal period required 11 to
13 days.

The moths hatched from different lots were separated and the egg-
period observed. In one case this lasted from August 8 to 12, or

66—V

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 63

4 days, and in another case from July 18 to 22, or 4 days. In the
first instanee the temperature averaged between 76° and 80° F. and
in the second from 80° to 88° F. Evidently this is the maximum
period.

As regards the duration of the entire life cycle, it was noticed that
eggs deposited July 3 produced caterpillars on the 9th, or in 6 days.
These penetrated the earth, being full-grown, on the 26th, making the
entire life period of the larve 17 days. They began to issue as moths
August 5. This gives a total period for the life cycle of 31 days for
extremely hot weather. In an ordinary outdoor summer tempera-
ture the pericd would be about 35 days, or 5 weeks.

Our rearing records are not quite as accurate as could be desired,
owing to unfortunate conditions at the insectary and to three changes
in the office force during the time when the insect was under observa-
tion. There were, however, positively four generations here, and
about the same number was observed at Orlando. There is also
the possibility of an earlier fifth generation in nature. The exact
periods for the appearance of these should be recorded in the field.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

The unusual abundance of this species at Orlando, Fla., during the
season of 1907 afforded.a most excellent opportunity for the study
of its insect natural enemies. These came under observation as early
as May and were still abroad as late as August, appearing to increase
somewhat as the season advanced.

PARASITES.

The parasitic species observed were seven in number; the pre-
daceous enemies, six.

Ophion tityri Pack. (7)—Issued July 17-August 1.

Limnerium sp.—Issued May 25-30.

Meteorus sp.—Issued July 11—August 2.

Chelonus sp.—Issued July 6, 1908.

Spilochalcis spp.—The Meteorus was attacked by two species of
secondary parasites of the family Chalcidide. These issued August
2 from the peculiar brown cocoons of the Meteorus.

Winthemia quadripustulata Fab., a moderate-sized tachina fly. is
also a parasite on the larva of this species. Adults issued August 8
but did not appear abundant. Of a lot of larve taken at random
from different portions of a field, upward of 50 per cent bore tachina-
fly eggs. Evidently a large percentage fail to hatch.”

“A small fly was also observed feeding on the pup. It is Aphiocheta nigri-
ceps Loew, one of the Phoridie, which comprises species of scavenging habits
and not parasitic. ‘

66—V

64 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CGROPS.
PREDACEOUS ENEMIES.

Calosoma sayt Dej.—The larvee of the carabid beetle Calosoma
sayt were observed in considerable numbers and were reared to adults.
They were first noticed July 6, when they were quite abundant in the
furrows between rows of sweet potato. They were found concealed
by the vines, feeding on the larvee of the Prodenia, and after sucking
out the juices of one larva they immediately attacked another. The
adults issued in our rearing cages August 11.

Polistes annularis L.—The large brown wasp Polistes annularis
was observed July 2, flying quite commonly in sweet-potato fields.
One was watched which alighted on a leaf and began searching for
prey, after the custom of such wasps. The search was continued from
plant to plant and from leaf to leaf until a Prodenia larva was
located, when it was at once seized behind the head and chewed into a
shapeless mass. Other wasps of this species were also seen on fence
posts dragging Prodenia larve about with them.

It is interesting to note that Mr. F. F. Crevecoeur, Onaga, Kans.,
reports having seen this wasp being carried away by the asilid
robber-fly, Deromyia ternata Loew.

Stiretrus anchorago Fab., var. diana Fab.—The blue-and-red and
the uniformly blue forms of the soldier-bug Stiretrus anchorago,
which are common in Florida, were observed in numbers attacking
the Prodenia larve in July.

Podisus maculiventris Say.—During July the spined soldier-bug
was seen preying upon the Prodenia larve. (See fig. 11.) In one
instance 18 nymphs were counted on a single amaranth plant infested
by the cutworm. The length of the life cycle of this species from
hatching (not from egg-laying) was determined to be 16 days in hot
July weather.

Apateticus (EBupodisus) mucronatus Uhl.—July 17, and again in
December, 1907, this pentatomid bug was observed preying on the
larva of this species of Prodenia at Orlando, Fla. It is considered a
rare species and this is probably the first observation which has been
made on its habits.

Owing to the obscurity of the host insect in the past, no records
ean be found of any of these parasites or of other natural enemies
which affect it, but in Smith and Abbot’s work mention is made of a
species of “ Ichneumon ” which attacks the larva (see p. 58).

Pontia rape L.—July 22, 1907, the young larve of the imported
cabbage worm, which had hatched out on cabbage used as food for
Prodenia cridania Cram. in our rearing cages at Washington, were

66—V

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 65

observed feeding on the eggs of the latter. “The cabbage worms were
between one-quarter and three-eighths of an inch in length at this

time.
A FUNGOUS DISEASE.

EHmpusa sp.—September 8, 1907, a few Prodenia caterpillars, which
were found dying of a fungous disease in our rearing cages, were
referred to the Bureau of Plant Industry for identification of the
fungus. Mrs. F. W. Patterson stated that it was a species of Empusa.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

The arsenical poisons are effective against this army worm under
ordinary conditions. Experiments performed at Orlando, Fla., how-
ever, brought out the fact that Paris green, on account of the frequent
rains which occur at the height of the principal outbreaks in the
infested regions of Florida, such as Orlando, is almost ineffective and
it is therefore necessary to use arsenate of lead. Owing to the
greater adhesiveness of the latter it remains on the plants when the
former is washed off.

Paris green, arsenate of lead, and a special preparation which may
be called adhesive copper arsenite, were tested, the last by request of
its inventor. It was used in experiments Nos. 8,10, and 11. A barrel
sprayer, fitted with Vermorel nozzle, was used for a number of these
experiments, but for most of them a knapsack sprayer of fine quality
was employed. Sweet potatoes were sprayed in every case except in
experiment No. 5, where collards were also sprayed, and the work was
usually begun between 8 and 10 a. m. in bright sunlight. Spraying
experiments commenced July 12 and were continued until August T.

Experiment No. 1—July 12, infested plants were sprayed with a
solution of Paris green, 5 ounces, and fresh air-slaked lime, 5 ounces,
in 50 gallons of water. The spraying was done in the morning and
‘ain fell before noon. The next day when the field was examined
the larvee were found uninjured and practically no poison remained
on the leaves. The experiment was therefore a failure.

experiment No. 2—July 12, Paris green, 8 ounces, and freshly
slaked lime, 1 pound to 50 gallons of water, were sprayed the same
day and with the same results.

Experiment No. 3—July 17, Paris green was sprayed as in No. 2.
Again rain fell hard and steadily before noon, with the same results

as in experiments 1 and 2.

“This would seem to furnish at least one reason why this important insect
has been able to supplant its American cousins such as Pontia napi L., P. pro-
todice Bdy. & Lee., and P. monuste J... all of which feed on crucifers and are
called cabbage butterflies or “ worms.”

66—vV

66 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Keperiment No. 4.—Arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gallons of
water, was used. Rain fell as before, resulting in partial failure of
the experiment, the poison being washed off before it had time to
dry thoroughly.

Laperiment No. 5.—July 20, arsenate of lead was used as in experi-
ment No. 4. Collards were also sprayed. Rain did not ensue for at
least six hours, giving the spray time to dry on well in the warm sun.
The following day it rained hard for several hours, but the next
day the spray was found to be as thick on the sweet potatoes as when
first put on, in spite of two partially rainy days. The poison was
nearly as thick on the collards. An examination of the infested plants
two days after spraying showed that only 25 per cent of the caterpil-
lars were killed, but July 23, a day later, few large larvee remained
on the plants, showing that as soon as they have eaten sufficient poison
they are killed.

July 29, when the rows sprayed with arsenate of lead were again
examined, they were found in much better condition than the check
or unsprayed rows, few larve being seen feeding, while dead ones were
plentiful.

va periments Nos. 6 and 7—July 20, a sweet-potato patch was
sprayed with Paris green, 8 ounces to 50 gallons of water. As in the
case of experiment 5, no rain fell for about six hours; therefore the
poison dried on well, as previously. The following day it rained
hard for several hours, with the result that by July 22 the poison
was all washed off and only a few dead larvae were found. All of
the Paris green experiments were failures, since the rain washed the
poison off either before it could dry or after it was well dried on the
plant.

veperiment No. 8—dJuly 23, the adhesive copper arsenite (com-
bined with dextrine and glucose) was used at the rate of 1 pound to
100 gallons of water and applied as in previous experiments. The
following day no results were observed, but the foliage was not
burned. At the end of a week no good was accomplished and the ex-
periment was pronounced a failure.

Experiment No. 9—July 25, plants were again sprayed with ar-
senate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gallons of water, the conditions being
as in experiment No. 5. Rain at 12.45 p. m. washed off the poison,
consequently the spraying was a failure.

Experiment No. 10.—July 25, plants were sprayed with the copper
arsenite mixture; 10 ounces to 50 gallons of water were applied as in
experiment No. 8, an equal quantity of lime having been added. The
spray did not show well on the foliage and was invisible when dry.
It does not remain in suspension as well as Paris green and much
residue remains in the tank. July 28, a few dead larvee were found

b6—YV

o-

on the vines and only a few-live ones, but the same conditions were
observed on the check rows. The experiment was an absolute failure.

Experiment No. 11—July 29, plants were sprayed with copper
arsenite mixture at the rate of 15 ounces to 50 gallons of water. In
this case 1} ounces of copper arsenite and 1 ara of thick lime were
used with 5 gallons of water. Two days later the spray showed better
than in experiment No. 10 because of an abundance of lime and was
very finely and evenly applied to the leaves. Four larve were dead
on a few plants examined against 32 living Prodenia and 3 living
sweet-potato sphinx-moth larvee (Pileaethentas convolvuli L.).

August 6, this spray still eee on the folage, seeming to
adhere well, but the experiment was a failure in killing larvee

Heperiment No. 12.—July 29, plants were sprayed ati arene of
lead, 3 pounds to 50 gallons of w ater, applied as in previous experi-
ments with lead arsenate. There was no rain for 24+ hours. On a few
plants examined three days later 41 dead larve were found and 49
living, an observed death rate of less than 50 per cent. It should be
pointed out at this time, however, that it is difficult to find dead larvee,
as they sometimes dry up or crawl away.

August 2, the vines were almost free from larve. The experiment
Was pronounced very successful.

Eeperiment No. 13.—July 30, arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gal-
lons of water, was used without ensuing rain. In some rows exam-
ined August 1 about 20 per cent of the larvee were dead; in others 48

_ per cent, 54 per cent, and 61 per cent were killed in two days. August
5, these rows appeared entirely free from larve unless closely in-
spected, when only 5 or 6 could be found toa row. These might have
crawled from unsprayed weeds or other plants.

Euperiment No. 14 30, arsenate of lead, 3 pounds to 50 gal-
lons of water, was used. Three days later 84 per cent of the larve
under observation were destroyed, the rows being quite clean. In
both of these experiments, 13 and 14, many dead larvee were found in
rows not sprayed, as many as five rows away from Sh sprayed ones.

Experiment No. 15—August 7, arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50
gallons of water, was sprayed by a laborer, under supervision. It
rained at 1 p. m., but the spray remained on the leaves in large
amounts and, for having been applied by an inexperienced hand, was
well distributed. In this experiment, for some reason, the first four
rows sprayed at one filling of the tank produced quite a number of
burned leaves. This was attributed to a possible mistake in weigh-
ing out the chemicals. It did not, however, permanently injure the
plants. '

Caterpillars in the last 4 experiments, supposedly of the third gen-
eration, were very small, not over one-fourth or one-third of an inch
in length. As a consequence they were quickly killed, large numbers

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 67

66—V

68 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

of them being found dead soon after spraying. Forty-three dead
larve were found in a furrow beside one plant which contained 29
dead larve. In another place 112 dead larve were counted in 3
feet of furrow.

RESUME OF EXPERIMENTS, AND CONCLUSIONS.

Experiments 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7, in which Paris green was used at the
rate of 5 to 8 ounces in 6 gallons of water, were failures because in
each case the rain which followed the application washed off the
poison.

Experiments 4 and 9, in which arsenate of lead was used at the rate
of 2 pounds to 50 gallons of water, were also failures for the same
reason.

Experiments 8, 10, and 11, in which copper arsenite was used at
a rate of from 10 ounces to 1 pound in 50 gallons of water, failed,
not because of burning the foliage, as was feared, but because the in-
sects were not killed.

Experiments 5, 12, 13, 14, and 15, in which arsenate of lead was the
insecticide employed at the rate of 2 to 3 pounds in 50 gallons of
water, were successful in each case.

The results of this series of fifteen experiments show conclusively
the superiority of a spray of arsenate of lead to one of Paris green
when applied under suitable conditions. It is in every way more
effective and more satisfactory than the latter, as Paris green is so
likely to be washed away by the frequent rains of the wet season of”
Florida. These remarks apply practically to all cutworms, cater-
pillars, and other larve which devour truck and related crops in
‘central Florida or similar regions.

ADHESIVE COPPER ARSENITE MIXTURE.

The preparation of copper arsenite used in the experiments that
have just been reported was stated by its inventor to be free from
soluble arsenious acid and to possess the adhesive properties found in
no other adhesive insecticide. It was stated to be composed of 36
per cent dextrin and 4 per cent gum and was prepared to be used in
conjunction with lime in the proportion of 1 part by weight to from 4
to 6 parts of lime—either dry or in solution, according to the foliage
to be tested. The inventor also expressed his confidence that this
insecticide would prove a most economical one for general garden
and other use, as the loss by wind and rain would be reduced at least
50 per cent and the first cost of the article would be about half that
‘of Paris green or arsenate of lead.

Samples of this mixture were submitted to Mr. J. K. Haywood,
Chief of the Miscellaneous Laboratory, Bureau of Chemistry, who
furnished the following analysis. August 7, 1907:

66—YV

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 69

Analysis of 4551 Misc.
/
Per cent.

WEST STR EE 2S one ee = ae See Se RIO NS hd A 4.85
otal arseniqus’ oxid—__..._..-- ee ae ee ee oe ek ee eek 40. 42
ARGHEN) Gay ayer Rao 5 Re ee Sea Een Fee ee 24. 87
Gum and dextrin (approximate) : po = es ONO)
Acetic acid and other undetermined _——-____ Se ee eee = 9. 86

Note sates FS. ee ee ee ee Sem 100. 00

Soluble arsenious oxid_____~ Hig Seok ee ee eo. 1S
(10 day water ext. method. )
From the above analysis the sample evidently consists of about 20 per cent
gum and dextrin and SO per cent Paris green. The amount of soluble arsenic is
very high and would undoubtedly give rise to serious trouble.

SUMMARY.

The semitropical army worm is a smooth or hairless noctuid
caterpillar, Prodenia eridania Cram. It feeds normally on weeds,
such as the pokeweed and spiny amaranth or “ careless weed ” of the
South, and is confined to semitropical America as a pest. When it
becomes unduly abundant it attacks the foliage and, in some cases,
the stems and fruits of all forms of garden truck growing in its
habitat, the list of known food plants including tomato, potato, sweet
potato, eggplant, pepper, okra, collards, and cowpeas. In its habits
it is similar to the cutworms, having also the climbing habit, and
when extremely abundant it migrates in armies like the common army
worm, whence the name.

Experiments show that the ege period may be passed in a min-
imum of 4 days, the larval period in 17 days, and that the entire life
eycle, in an outdoor summer temperature, would be about 35 days or
5 weeks; also, that there are four generations and possibly five pro-
duced in a year, the insect breeding practically continuously during
the warm season. In ordinary years the species is largely controlled
by natural enemies, of which seven are parasitic and six predaceous.

A series of fifteen experiments was conducted against this species
in Florida during 1907, which shows conclusively that a spray of
arsenate of lead is the best remedy, being much superior to Paris
green when apphed under local conditions. It is in every way more
effective, chiefly because less likely to be washed-away by the frequent
‘ains of the wet season in that region. It is best applied at the rate
ef 2 or 3 pounds in 50 gallons of water, and applications must be
renewed when the insects again become numerous, as the latter are
apt to spread from unsprayed plants.

66—y

70 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

ee

co |

eA)

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL LIST.

. CRAMER, PIrRRE.—Papillons exotique, Vols. III & IV, p. 183, pl. 358, fig.

He & HL) (2), as2:
Description and figures of both varieties of moths.
SmitrH, J. H. and Asgot, M. J.
Ds 19S pl Cie, LOT.
Described as Phalena phytolacce with brief account of habits. Figures of moth
and larva.
Grote, A. R.—Bul. Buff. Soc. Nat. Sci., Vol. II, p. 28, 1873.
Listed as Yylomiges phytolacce (S. & A.) and recorded from California and
Atlantic District.
Morrison, H. K.—Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., p. 62, 1875.
Technical description as Actinotia derupta n. sp., from Texas, September 21.
Brieily compared with phytolucce S. & A.
Grote,’ A. R.—Can. Ent., Vol. XI, pp. 205, 206, 1879.
Received from Texas and referred to Prodenia phytolacce; characters, ete.
No excuse for Morrison's Actinotia derupta.
Hust, G. D.—Bul. Brooklyn Ent. Soc., Vol. IE, p. 7; Vol. IV, p. % pla:
fig. 9, 1881.
Described as Leucania nigrofascia from one specimen taken by Koebele at
Tallahassee, Fla.

Lepidopterous insects of Georgia, Vol. IT,

. SMITH, J. B.—Catalogue Noctuidze Boreal America, p. 169, 1893.

Bibliography ; synonymy and distribution.
[Chittenden, F. H.]—Yearbook U. 8. Dept. Agr., 1907 (1908), p. 545.
Brief unsigned notice of injury to truck crops in Florida.

In Smith’s catalogue of Noctuide,” fifteen references are given to

this species, but as only a few of these are of interest in connection
with the present account, the reader is referred to that list. The more
important references are listed above.

66—V

O

"

ae

UsS-DEPARTMENT OF ,AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 66, Part VI.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE.

F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D

In Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

4

IssuED May 8, 1909.

te —

SS

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1909.

20644 8

CONTENDS:

Niet ragtO CHA UO layperson ee ee ee acy aS a a aw Scales cule ce colctie ane
lO GHENT CY SESE SRE Be aee SD anhe COR Ob ONES Sees ea
MEE UO oe reese mem ae ot be ooo Sete de ediecieeededes
erential Un Cse ames eee oie eee te no Ue = See ce ote d oeedinseice
Methods of attack, food habits, and generations. -.......-...-.-.-------.----

IDren al nats) Teco ee ape” ea Se ae nee a ee a
Set CORE SEMAN ee ee ee Se aa, On See eas dese e cmc
Panera anc eaisee amet ers a roe ee mt onice ae 52 odoaece oo. Sect
Summary-on the use ofursemieals. =--2 2-50 ko... ost be ec eens
SRP iRO MAYA a= soe ete ers Pontes enema oe a Paso e Stee eine
ES Tai een EAGT = om Aer SAAC ae. at 6 See Beek ee. oats eee oA

Misia ni MMC eee Res eo INS Set wan ye ees tae ee eee

NIBTRRCOMCHUCHCTS=SM. 5 e acetee Ne ce SoS oe ad ete ihe eee es meee

ACA CULOLV ALOT: ee Ss owas Sec Sac one See ee eee ee

ILIAD -< = - SO ee ee ee Sp eee a ge eR RE aS oe ae Ne ps ee ae

Ee NIPEPRUREN ose ht NS ora chee ba so = ot oem eeeee ee Soe eee:

GP Pes aac sae ae Aenea oa Sone e eo oece exe enema saad es =
66—VI IIL

Se Si
Cawwnwe:

fo oe ome.)
ono

ITLUS PRAT rONS:

PLATES.

Piate V. Spraying apparatus used in hopyards in British Columbia----.----
VI. View of hopyard showing sheep keeping down weeds- -.-----------
VII. Method of capturing hop flea-beetles on tarred horse-sledges. -.-.---

Hire. 12,

13.
14.
15.
16.
ple
18.
il).

TEXT FIGURES.

. Hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata): Larva and adult_..---.------

Tarred catchers for hop flea-beetles
66—-VI
IV

View of hopyard, showing how flea-
Hop leaves, showing work of flea-beetle.........--.----------------
Work of flea-beetle after vines are grown. .--...--------------------
Trained hop shoots stripped by flea-beetle.......-......-----------
Breeding and control cage in place over a hill...........-----------
A crew spraying hops in British Columbia -...-..2-..:--.---.--=s--6

beetles keep down vines---.----

U.S. D. A., B. BE. Bul. 66, Part VI. ISSUED May 8, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE.

(Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,
In Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

INTRODUCTORY.

A minute, metallic blackish flea-beetle, Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.,
known by different local names, has been reported in recent years as
doing very extensive injury to the hop plant and considerable injury
to sugar beet. Since 1904 it has been reported in numbers on sugar
beets grown in several localities in Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. In
the Northwest, and particularly in British Columbia, it does serious
damage in hopyards, and has been especially destructive since 1903.
During the past three years, indeed, this species has become unusually
abundant, with the result that in the Chilliwack and Agassiz Valley
hop-growing regions of British Columbia it has accomplished damage
which has been estimated by Mr. H. J. Quayle as about 80 per cent
of the crop. Mr. Theo. Eder informs the writer that this means a
cash loss of not less than $125,000 in that district. The species during
that period has been the subject of considerable correspondence be-
tween this Department and persons practically interested in the grow-
ing of hops in the affected region.

The insect has received the name of rhubarb flea-beetle, from its
common occurrence, especially in the East, on rhubarb. In the West
it is called the hop flea-beetle, or “ hop flea,” or simply “ flea,” and in
literature it has received mention as the punctulated and the small-
punctured flea-beetle.

While the species is not known to be of the highest importance as a
sugar-beet pest, the probabilities are that it may become so, and at the
present time it is probably the most important hop pest in the entire
world. The incorporation of some new matter, gained from con-
versation with Mr. Theo. Eder and by correspondence with Mr. H. J.

66—VI ral

(p SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Quayle, has added much to the value of the present paper. Although
the species is much more serious as a pest in British Columbia than
in the United States, it is likely to become important throughout
the Pacific coast region where hops are grown. Mr. Eder repre-
sents the E. Clemens Horst Company, which owns extensive hop-
yards in British Columbia, and has already expended considerable
sums in investigation and experiments. The hop flea-beetle is now
abundant practically on the border line between British Columbia
and the State of Washington, and threatens our own industries. It is,
therefore, advisable that everything possible concerning it should be
made public before its appearance in the spring, although there are
several points in its life history still to be worked up.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The hop flea-beetle (fig. 12) is a member of the tribe Halticini,
family Chrysomelide, and resembles other flea-beetles in its strongly

Fic. 12.—The hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata) : a, Larva; b, lower surface of head
of same; c, upper surface of anal segments of same; d, beetle. a, d, Much enlarged ;
b, c, more enlarged. (a—c, After Carpenter; d, original.)

developed hind thighs. It is of oval form, with a greenish tinge,
brassy blackish, and punctulate or finely punctured, whence its spe-
cific name. The femora, tarsi, and basal joints of the antenne are
pale yellowish. The punctulations of the thorax are particularly
fine and appear as if made with the point of a very fine needle. The
punctures of the elytral striz are closely placed, almost crenate. The
beetle is only about one-tenth of an inch (2™) in length and
less than 1™™ in width. The male is particularly distinctive, hav-
ing the first joint of the anterior tarsi broadly dilated and the last
66—VI

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 73

ventral segment sinuate each side, while the middle of the disk near
the apex has a semioval depression.”
The species was first described in 1847.1?

DISTRIBUTION.

The hop flea-beetle is a native American species, quite distinct from
any species found on hops in England or on the Continent.

The collection of the U. S. National Museum and the published
records and specimens before the writer show the species to be gen-
erally distributed in the northern United States and southern Canada,
from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It does not appear to occur south
of Nebraska. The list of known localities follows: Cambridge, Mass. ;
Dundee, Ithaca, Long Island, Staten Island, and New York, N. Y.;
New Jersey, generally distributed (Smith) ; Pittsburg, Pa.; Marshall
Hall and Cabin John, Md.; Marquette, Detroit, Grand Ledge, and
Byron, Mich.; University, N. Dak-; Lincoln and Omaha, Nebr.; Fair-
field, Wyo.; Denver, Longmont, Grand Junction, Delta, Montrose,
Paonia, and Ft. Collins, Colo.; Logan, Garland, Lehi, Salt Lake, and
Park City, Utah; Elko, Nev.; Blackfoot, Idaho; San Francisco, Mar-
tinez, Monterey, Huntington Beach, Pasadena, and Chico, Cal.;
Tenino, Wash.; Astoria and Marion, Oreg.; Agassiz, Sardis, and
Vancouver, British Columbia; Northwest Territory; Manitoba; and
“ Assiniboia ” (now Saskatchewan). |

RECENT INJURIES.

September 16, 1903, the late Dr. James Fletcher first reported this
species injuring hops in British Columbia.

During 1906 Mr. Theo. Eder wrote from San Francisco, Cal., under
date of April 9, that hop growers were troubled considerably in some
sections by “hop fleas,” or flea-beetles. May 29, specimens were
received from Perkins, near Sacramento, Cal., which proved to be
the species under consideration. August 13, Mr. Hugh F. Fox, New
York, N. Y., sent specimens and transmitted a report from Mr. Geo.
Heggie, manager of a large hopyard, the Stepney ranch, owned by
Sir Arthur Stepney, at Enderby, B. C., where this pest was very
injurious. Mr. Heggie wrote as follows:

We have been sorely troubled this year in our hopyard with the ‘ hop flea-
beetle,” which attacks the young vine and leaf as soon as they appear above
the ground, and eats out large holes in the leaf, resulting in the plant being

“Tn the very closely related Ps. convexrior Lec. the last ventral segment of the
male is convex and not impressed. The latter species is, moreover, larger,
broader, and more convex, and the elytral striz are not impressed.

>The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the ap-
pended bibliography, p. 91.

66—VI

74 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

impoverished in vitality and the growth thereby seriously retarded. We were
troubled with them last year [1905], but not to the same extent, and had them
till after hop picking. In the middle of July they were so numerous that the
ground was fairly alive with them. They go into the ground in the evening
and come out again in the morning, and there has been no spray found to have
any effect without killing the plant.

Substantially the same form of injury was reported during the
same year at Agassiz, B. C., by Mr. John Wilson in a letter to Doctor
Fletcher. Writing September 7, 1906, Doctor Fletcher stated that
this species had been enormously destructive in British Columbia,
one correspondent reporting the loss of many thousands of dollars.
He estimated his crop as possibly 70 bales, whereas he should have
had 250.

Writing of this species, January 30, 1907, Dr. E. D. Ball, while
working in cooperation with the writer, stated that it was by far the
most injurious species on sugar beet in Utah. It was found every-
where and was apparently the most common species in early spring.
It was observed hibernating around the edges of fields, in patches of
dead mustard, along ditch banks, and in similar places. Where
ditches were covered with patches of roses these seemed to furnish a
favorite retreat. These clumps grew to a height of 2 or 3 feet and
were very dense, and from them one could see the injury to the beets
radiating in every direction, the affected area growing wider and
wider as time went on. In early spring this species fed on almost
anything that came to hand, but its injury to beets was practically
all done at the time the plants were first appearing through the
ground or within a few days thereafter. Cases were observed where
the rows of young plants could be seen the entire length of the field
one day, and two days later scarcely a beet plant could be found, the
beetles having eaten the tender stem, causing the tops to fall off and
the beets to die. Frequently they attacked beets just as the latter
were pushing through the ground. Hundreds of acres had been
destroyed in this way, injury varying greatly in different years and
in different localities.

Great damage was done near Logan, Utah, where the hedge mus-
tard was overrunning the fields. At Lewiston, Utah, at the northern
end of the same valley, injury was also severe, although there was
little of the common black mustard.

The destruction of a crop by this species does not necessarily entail
a complete loss, as the growers replant. The late plants, however,
are not, as a rule, as good as the earlier ones, and the weeds get such a
start that the land is hard to cultivate. After the beets had reached
a leaf diameter of 3 or 4 inches no material injury was noticed,
although the beetles continued to appear in the fields throughout the
season. Beetles were observed July 20, 1906, at Cache Junction,

66—VI

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 75

Utah, enormously abundant on a form of hedge mustard along the
railroad tracks, feeding on the half-grown seeds. Single plants were
seen on which a double handful of beetles could be taken at one stroke
of the net.

In a letter dated July 20, 1908, the E. Clemens Horst Company,
Perkins, Cal., wrote of extensive injury by this species, and as this
letter contains much of interest it is transcribed herewith. The
writer is greatly indebted to the same company for the excellent pho-
tographs from which the ten half-tones illustrating this article are
taken.

We are extensive growers of hops on the Pacific Slope, California and Oregon,
and also have about 600 acres of hops in two ranches in British Columbia.
For the past three years we have been very much molested in British Columbia
by a variety of flea-beetle that seems to take an especial liking to hop foliage
and eats the young, tender shoots as they come out of the ground, and also the
developed and partly developed leaves of the vines after the same are above
ground. There are two other growers in the same section that were bothered
one or two years previous to ourselves, and as they had some foreign varieties
of hops we at first supposed the insects had been imported from England in the
roots. Since, however, we have found that the same insect has been in the
neighborhood in very small numbers for quite a long term of years. Our crops
in British Columbia suffered quite a bit last season, but this year are very
nearly a total failure. From the one place, Chilliwack, B. C., containing 278
acres, we do not expect to reap a harvest of more than 600 bales, whereas we
should have from 2,500 to 38,000 bales. From the other place, Agassiz, B. C.,
we do not expect over 250 bales of hops, whereas we should have 2,250 to 2,700
bales. This will give you some idea of the inroads made by the insect and the
resultant loss to persons engaged in hop growing when their yards are attacked
by these pests. Of course we readily understand that it would be somewhat out
of the ordinary for your Department to attack this problem inasmuch as it is
out of the United States, but inasmuch as the pests are now so numerous
within about 20 miles of the United States boundary and only a short distance
from the Washington State hopyards we believe it is well worth your considera-
tion. Just imagine for a moment the loss that would fall to the numerous
growers of hops in the States of Washington, Oregon, or California, if this
pest should not be held in check, and would migrate to these sections. We have
definite knowledge of their already having spread as far as Sumas Junction,
which is on the boundary line between the United States and Canada, where
they are attacking cabbage, potato, beets, and other root crops, though the
damage done here is not nearly as bad as in the hop fields, * * #*

A badly damaged hopyard is shown in figure 13.

During 1908 injury from the hop flea-beetle was reported by Mr.
W. W. Stockberger, of the Bureau of Plant Industry of this Depart-
ment. He mentioned the cases already cited and one reported by
Mr. Robert Maitland, of Agassiz, B. C., the latter stating that the
ravages of this insect would almost destroy the prospect for a crop
during the season. Mr. John Wilson, Agassiz, B. C., who complained

76453—Bul. 66, pt 6—09 2

76 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

of this species in earlier years, reported, under date of July 11, as
follows:

The flea-beetles have been so numerous that they have stripped every portion
of the yard this season. I have noticed these last three days that they are all
disappearing, but they all disappeared last season about this time and a second
brood came about the middle of July.

This “ second brood ” was probably merely the first-developed gen-
eration of the year.

This species has also come under the observation of various other
collectors and observers. During 1906 Mr. Frederick Maskew, while
working under the writer’s direction in southern California, took
it generally in many beet fields. Mr. E. G. Titus, while codperating

Fic. 13.—View of hopyard, showing how completely the hop flea-beetle keeps down the vines.
Note occasional vine that grows up. Agassiz, B. C., June 24, 1908. (Original.)

with this Bureau in the investigation of sugar-beet pests, found it
abundantly, and many of the locality records given under the head-
ing “ distribution,” in California, Utah, Idaho, and other States are
from specimens collected by him on sugar beet in 1905, 1907, and 1908.

Writing of this species in July, 1908, Mr. I. J. Condit stated that
the beetles were then very common in the vicinity of Chino, Cal., on
Chenopodium album and C. rurale.

METHODS OF ATTACK, FOOD HABITS, AND GENERATIONS,

This flea-beetle affects both surfaces of a leaf, gnawing through
the skin and devouring the pulp, usually leaving the skin on the op-

posite side entire; this later becomes discolored, forming yellowish-
66—VI

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. Th.

brown freckles as the leaf grows and expands, the skin at this point
in time becoming torn and frequently showing holes. When the
beetle occurs in moderate numbers the leaves (fig. 14) become riddled,
as by fine shot, the punctures being most obvious after the plants have
made some growth. In its attack on hops it frequently causes the
leaves to look like a mass of network or more or less completely
strips the vines of leaves, as shown in figures 15 and 16. As is the
case with flea-beetles in general, this species does most harm to young
plants. When the beetles occur in considerable numbers they are
capable of doing great damage in a comparatively short time, com-
pletely devouring
the young and
tender leaves as
fast as they come
up.

Injury is most
noticeable on
hops, sugar beet,
rhubarb, and some
other vegetables.

The beetle is a
general feeder, the
list of its food
plants including,
among vegetables,
rhubarb, beet, cu-
cumber, turnip,
radish, cabbage,
mustard, and po-
tato. It feeds also +,
on hops, red and
white clover, nettle, dock (Rumex), lamb’s-quarters (Chenopodium),
pigweed and tumbleweed (Amaranthus retroflexus and A. grecians ),
hedge mustard, and common wild-growing black mustard. The prob-
abilities are that, as all of these plants are affected by the adult beetles,
a considerable proportion of them serves as food for the larve. On
this head Mr. Quayle has written that the eggs, larve, and pupex
were taken at a depth of from three to six inches from the surface
of the ground in hop fields and that the larve apparently feed on the
roots of hop as well as those of other plants growing in the yards.
Since it is well known that the beetles occur in other regions where
hops do not grow there must be other larval food plants. It would
be interesting, and is important, to ascertain exactly what plant, or
plants, is the favorite with the larve.

66—YVI

14.—l!op leaves, showing work of flea-beetle. (Original.)

78 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Fletcher, in writing of this species, says that in Canada there are
two generations a year, the first appearing in June and the second in
August. The generation appearing in August is with little doubt the
newly developed first generation, and, reasoning from analogy, 1. e.,
from what we know of related flea-beetles, it is this generation of the
beetle that hibernates; thus the so-called “ first generation ” is simply
that same generation reappear-
ing the following spring and
early summer

As to hibernation, Piper °
and Doane * have recorded that
the beetle passes the winter
under stones or rubbish, in
which respect it resembles
practically all other species of
American flea-beetles, and that
with the first warm days of
spring the beetles emerge from
their winter quarters and im-
mediately commence feeding
voraciously upon their various
food plants.

The following account of
the life history and habits of
the species in the worst aftect-
ed locality in British Colum-
bia has been kindly furnished
by Mr. H. J. Quayle, who has
also given an account of reme-
dial experiments which sup-
plement those previously fur-
nished by conversation with
Mr. Eder; indeed, without the
information supphed by these
two gentlemen this article
would be quite incomplete.
Before transcribing Mr.
Quayle’s account it may be well to draw from it, according to the
statement of Mr. H. Hulbert, Sardis, B. C., that this species made
its first appearance as a hop pest in British Columbia in 1894 and that
it has been of great importance for five years, or since about 1903. In
regard to Mr. Hulbert’s statement that the beetles*disappear about
June 1 and reappear the last of July, it is obvious that during that
period the larvee are maturing, the pup are formed, and the beetles
of the first, or new, generation appear.

66—VI

Fig. 15—Work of flea-beetle after vines are
grown. (Original.)

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 79

The following account of the life history and habits of this species
as it occurs in British Columbia is taken from Mr. Quayle’s manu-
scripts:

LIFE HISTORY AND HABITS.

The adult.—The beetle appears very early in the spring and, according to
reports, patiently awaits the coming of its food plant. This early attack of
the beetle as the plants are bursting through the ground and before the leaves
are fully expanded is one of the things that makes control work difficult.
Before the hops appear the beetles are
known to attack the nettle, and often com-
pletely riddle the leaves. They also attack
other plants, and have been seen, and evi-
dence of their work noticed, on potato,
mangel, beet, turnip, dock, lamb’s-quarters,
pigweed, and red as well as white clover.
None of these plants is attacked, however,
in preference to hops and it is rarely that
they are found at this season on anything
but hop vines. In one or two cases they
were observed in some numbers on potato,
at a considerable distance from hop vines.
On a small field of hops that was deserted
last year on account of this flea-beetle and
planted to clover, the leaves of the latter
were considerably eaten.

The first appearance of the beetles in this
section, according to Mr. Hulbert, was
fourteen years ago, and they have been
attacking his hops for the past five years.
The beetles jump very readily when dis-
turbed, but fall to the ground, usually not
far from the base of the vine. Experiments
to determine the power of jumping, which is
an important factor in control work, indicate
that they may not jump more than a foot
in the vertical and about a foot and a half
in the horizontal.

Feeding occurs almost entirely on the
upper surface of the leaves, where they
eat out small, nearly -round holes about
one-eighth of an inch in diameter, This is
continued until the leaf is reduced to a network and finally nothing but the
main ribs remain. Many of the vines grew to a height of three or four feet,
then the foliage was completely stripped off, leaving the dead stalks, which
may still be seen in the fields. Many of the vines are thus killed to the
ground. Strings were put in place in 1908 in anticipation of the usual crop,
but were taken down and saved for another year, as the vines that started
afterward were too late to make a crop. Cultivation was stopped and a
thousand sheep were imported from California by the Horst Company to
feed in their yards.

The beetles, with their more or less cone-shaped bodies, readily make their
way through anything into which they can get their heads, and our experi-

66—VI

Fic. 16.—Trained hop shoots stripped
by flea-beetle. (Original.)

80 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

mental cages [fig. 17], which were covered with cheese cloth, had to be re-
covered with calico. They also make their way through the soil with little
difficulty. Experiments to determine this point consisted in burying them at
different depths, enclosed in tin cylinders. In two days the beetles appeared
through 2, 4, and 6 inches of loose soil, but did not appear from these same
depths where the soil was made compact by tamping.

The egg.—A few eggs have been taken on the hop roots about 4 inches
below the surface. Obviously, these are most difficult to find and can not be
detected at all without a magnifier. To more easily obtain the eggs and younger
stages, tin cylinders, 8 inches in diameter and 2 feet high, have been sunk to a
depth of 8 inches in the
ground, some enclosing hop
vines and others in the
open field. Large numbers
of beetles have been liber-
ated in each of these, and
they will be taken up with
the soil intact in the tins in
two, three, and four weeks,
and the soil carefully ex-
amined for eggs and larve.
Beetles taken in mating,
and enclosed in vials with
earth at the bottom, have
laid eggs in from eight to
ten days.

The larva.—Larve of what
the writer believes to be
this flea-beetle have been
taken from 2 to 4 inehes
below the surface, both
around hop roots and in the
spaces between the vines
away from any hop roots.
While most of the larve
have been taken about hop
vines, I think that they are
not restricted, in feeding,
to the roots of the hop ex-
clusively, since some have
been taken in spaces be-
tween the hop vines and
also because of the wide
distribution of the beetle, both in the United States and in the valleys of the
Chilliwack and Agassiz, away from any hopyards. Search about the roots of
the nettle and other plants growing along the borders and roadsides failed to
reveal any larve.

The pupa.—We have also taken pups of what was considered this flea-beetle.
Transformation to the adult was, of course, necessary to establish this positively
and some of the pupz taken to the laboratory duly transformed. These were
taken about the hop roots 3 or 4 inches below the surface.

Both larvee and pup, when sought at the same time, were extremely scarce,
and sometimes an hour’s search would result in finding nothing. Earlier in the

66—VI

a
‘

tok

4
|

Sevbeerene Mee we:

pti

Fie. 17.—Breeding and control cage in place over a hill.
(Original. )

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 81

year would undoubtedly be a more opportune time for getting the younger
stages, but our rearing-cage experiments, starting with the beetles in mating,
should give us ample material for the study of the younger stages. The scarcity
of the larve at the time when sought is attributed by the writer to the fact
that it was too late for the large numbers of spring and too early for those
expected to appear about six weeks later, according to reports of previous years.
Those few which were obtained are probably late individuals of the last brood.

Two other kinds of larvze are taken commonly in the ground, these being wire-
worms and carabid larvee. Many of these are very small, just about the size of
our flea-beetle larvee, and the wireworms, when first hatched, are of the same
white color, but both of these forms of laryze can be readily distinguished from
the flea-beetle larvee. The few pup obtained are undoubtedly those of what
we consider the flea-beetle.

Development.—From all accounts this flea-beetle keeps emerging continuously
throughout the season, though there are periods when the beetles occur much
more abundantly than at others. Last year Mr. Hulbert stopped using the
tarred boards June 1, when practically all of the beetles had disappeared. They
did not reappear until the last week in July, when the jarring method was
resumed. This year (1908) he continued the use of the tarred boards up to
the second week of July, this difference over 1907 being attributed to the cold
wet season. According to this, the next lot of beetles may not appear before
the last of August of the present year. Beetles have been seen breeding con-
tinuously during the past two weeks, though not abundantly, one pair being
seen out of seventy-five or one hundred beetles. Beetles are usually present in
considerable numbers in the fall, when the hops are mature, and do much direct
injury to the product.

NOTES ON OTHER SPECIES.

A few remarks in regard to the larval habits of our other American
and some European species of Psylliodes may be interesting. The
writer has several times observed the beetles of the equally well-
known Psylliodes convexior Lec. in numbers on shepherd’s purse
(Bursa bursa-pastoris) in June near the District of Columbia, and
it is probable that this is the larval food plant. Until the publica-
tion of Mr. Quayle’s article '* there was no record of any of our four
species having been reared; hence, the natural conclusion that they
were root-feeders. In Europe no less than forty-nine species of
Psylliodes are recognized in a recently published catalogue,’ and the
habits of those which have been studied indicate a preference for
cruciferous plants, although several are attached to widely differ-
ent groups of plants. Thus among European species are the hop
flea-beetle (Ps. attenuata Koch), the potato flea-beetle (Ps. affinis
Payk.), and a species which is mentioned and figured by Taschen-
berg’ as the “raps-erdfloh” (Ps. chrysocephala L.). The last is
very abundant and has been known for years to attack edible crucif-
erous crops. It has been recently treated (1906) by Mr. Geo.

“ Reitter, Catalogus Coleopterorum Europe, pp. 572-574, 1906.
bPraktische Insekten-Kunde, Pt. II, p. 303, fig. 79. Bremen, 1879.
66—VI

82 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

H. Carpenter as a cabbage pest in an article in which the larva is
described and illustrated in detail. As to its biology Mr. Carpenter ¢
reaches the conclusion that the female beetle lays her eggs on the
underground part of the stem and that the young larva burrows
through into the interior and feeds in the central tissue of the stem
and taproot until mature. The papal stage lasts about three weeks
and is passed in an earthen cell just beneath the surface. The
natural larval food plant is evidently a wild crucifer.

LOCAL CONDITIONS AND NATURAL INFLUENCES.

Inquiry was made of Mr. Eder during his visit to Washington,
D. C., in December, 1908, as to the local conditions in the infested
area. From what was learned through him it would appear that the
insect’s occurrence in such great numbers in the hopyards of British
Columbia was due to the equable temperature and to the humidity,
which keeps the soil practically always sufficiently moist for the oper-
ations of the larve feeding beneath the surface.

There can be no doubt, from the writer’s observations of our east-
ern flea-beetles, that these are largely held in check, especially in
regions like the District of Columbia, by the extremely dry heat of
midsummer. At the time that the flea-beetles are developing as
larve or undergoing their transformation the ground is nearly baked
by the heat during the day and softened only by dews at night. The
conditions are very different in British Columbia, and there are,
moreover, no other natural causes known which might assist in de-
pleting the numbers of the little pest.

Among natural agencies only a single species of insect has as yet
been discovered preying upon this flea-beetle, a hymenopterous para-
site which was known to Fitch ? and which he mentions as a “ Chal-
cidian.” It is evidently a species of Perilitus, probably the same
species, schwarzii Ashm.(?), as has been encountered by the writer
on other species of flea-beetles of the genera Epitrix and Phyllotreta.
It develops within the body of the adult or beetle. It is not known
if this species occurs also in the Pacific region. If not, it might be
possible to introduce it.

Fitch’s observations and conclusions are interesting, since we have
no reason to doubt his theory. Briefly he observed on June 4, 1863,
two flea-beetles pairing on a leaf of rhubarb. Presently a parasite
alighted near them. It darted upon the back of the female, appear-
ing to be inserting its sting in the tip of her body, whereupon she
gave a leap and they both disappeared among the foliage. Fitch
conjectured that the “ chalcidian” was an egg-parasite of the flea-

@ Journal of Economic Biology, Vol. I, pp. 152-156, Pl. XI. London, England,
November, 1906.
66—VI

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 83

beetle and that the eggs of the latter were so minute that the larval
parasite required several of them to nourish and bring it to maturity,
as observed of an egg-parasite of the Hessian fly. The parent, watch-
ing her opportunity, deposits an egg internally in the ovaries of the
flea-beetle, or in the passage-way therefrom, and the parasite larva,
taking up its residence there, consumes the eggs of the flea-beetle,
one after another, as they develop, whereby none of them will be
extruded until after the parasite has attained its growth. In con-
clusion he writes, “ Most singular and truly wonderful as such a
provision of nature would be, it is the most probable conclusion I am
able to arrive at from past observations.”

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Correspondents who have inquired for a direct remedy for use against
this species have been advised to experiment with all of the usual
flea-beetle remedies. These are, in brief, arsenate of lead. arsenate of
lead with resin-fishoil soap, Paris green with and without Bordeaux
mixture, Scheele’s green, arsenite of lime with soda, dry Paris green
with air-slaked lime, Bordeaux mixture alone, and kerosene emulsion.
According to Messrs. Eder, Quayle, and others, most of these remedies
have been tested more or less completely without being found to be
thoroughly effective, owing to the great numbers of the flea-beetles and
the rapidity with which the tops of the hop vines grow. All remedies
that have been employed have been directed against the beetles only.
Unless the hop plants are sprayed nearly every day it is practically
impossible to keep them covered with any poison so as to entirely pro-
tect them from the ravages of the “ fleas.” Among other substances
tested were tarred boards and sheets, as for leafhoppers. On account
of the employment of cheap labor, chiefly Hindu, mechanical and
hand methods were found of some value. Snuff was found effective
on a small scale and finely powdered tobacco, such as is now on the
market as an insecticide, is to be tested.

According to Messrs. Quayle, Eder, and others, the difficulties
encountered in the economic treatment of this species are due to two
causes: (1) The continual emergence or appearance of the beetles,
rendering any method that has yet been employed, such as an arsen-
‘ical or contact spray, or any mechanical means of capture, such as jar-
ring, of only temporary value, and (2) the extremely rapid growth
of the young hop vines, making frequently repeated applications of a
spray or other direct remedy a necessity.

ARSENICALS.
Arsenate of lead.—Axsenate of lead, applied at the rate of about 1

pound in from 20 to 50 gallons of water, is advised for use against
66—VI

84 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the hop flea-beetle. Being more adhesive, this mixture, when sprayed
upon the plants, sticks more firmly to the leafage than Paris green,
and is also very much less likely to produce scorching or burning;
indeed, it has been used at 1 pound to 10 gallons of water on some of
the hardier plants, such as potato, without injurious effects. This is,
however, not advisable, owing to the extra cost, provided that a
weaker solution will accomplish the object. Moreover, scorching is
apt to follow its use at this rate on some plants, especially when these
are exposed to the direct rays of the sun. The adhesiveness is still
further enhanced by the addition of about the same amount by
weight of resin-fishoil soap as of the arsenical employed. Mr. Wil-
son reported that arsenate of lead, applied at the rate of 4 pounds to
40 pounds of Bordeaux mixture, was inadequate, yet Mr. Quayle re-
ports that used at the rate of 5 pounds to 50 gallons it will kill a
large number of the beetles, although many take to the new growth
that is constantly appearing, or apparently carefully avoid those
places on the foliage that have a good coating of poison. The failure
of these two arsenicals must be attributed, in large part, to unsuitable
spraying apparatus; either of these applications should kill insects
on hops, as they have both been found effective, according to Fletcher,
against this same beetle on rhubarb in the Northwest Territory and
Manitoba.

Dry Paris green.—Mr. Thos. Cunningham reported that very
little impression was made by an arsenical spray in the region just
mentioned, but stated that Paris green dusted on the plants seemed to
produce better results. It was applied by means of a Leggett powder
gun. Even then some trouble was experienced; in fact, as the
arsenical dust or so-called “ dust spray ” struck the vines the “ fleas ”
hopped to the ground. “In all my experience with insecticides,” he
says, “I have never seen anything which will approach the fleas in
resistant power.”

Paris green spray.—Paris green, being the most readily obtainable
insecticide, was advised by this Bureau when information as to
remedies was requested. When properly prepared and applied,
according to the directions furnished in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 127,
this insecticide should have no deleterious effect on the hop or other
plants affected. It was advised that other food plants growing in the
vicinity, such as rhubarb, turnips, and weeds, should be sprayed with
the solution.

Regarding its efficiency in hop fields Mr. John Wilson, in a report
to the late Doctor Fletcher, stated that when applied at the rate
of from 4 to 8 ounces, in combination with Bordeaux mixture, made
according to the 4440 formula, or in 40 gallons of water, 1t was not
successful.

66—VI

PLATE V.

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture,

ae ae

SPRAYING APPARATUS USED IN HOPYARDS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA. (ORIGINAL.)

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 85

For use against this species in its occurrence on field and garden
crops in Washington State, Messrs. Piper and Doane have advised
Paris green. The former states that he obtained excellent results by
using Paris green liberally but that it is necessary in the treatment of
young plants to apply the remedy as soon as attack by the beetles is
noticed. Both the wet and the dry methods are advised, as well as
the addition of Bordeaux mixture.

Other arsenicals.—Other arsenicals advised in such cases are arsen-
ite of lime with soda,* which has the merit of being as effective as
Paris green and lime and far cheaper, and Scheele’s green, which is
similar to Paris green and is employed in the same manner.”

SUMMARY ON THE USE OF ARSENICALS.

To sum up the directions for the-use of arsenicals, it should be
stated that arsenate of lead should take first place because it can
be purchased already combined in paste form, and especially because
it contains a smaller percentage of free arsenic (60 to 70 per cent),
and is therefore less likely to produce scorching or burning; and,
moreover, being adhesive, it remains on the plant longer.

Paris green, when combined with lime and water, or with Bor-
deaux mixture, is almost equally as good as arsenate of lead, and
is more readily obtainable in most markets, the ingredients being
purchasable practically anywhere. It is quicker in action, but not
so adhesive.

The number of sprayings will naturally depend upon the locality
and seasonal conditions; possibly it may be necessary to spray every
few days when the plants are quite young and the beetles are most
abundant. Later there should be longer intervals between sprayings.

Dry mixtures are as a rule not in the same class with the sprays,
as they can not be applied so economically, do not so thoroughly
cover or adhere so closely to the leafage, and are more apt to cause
burning to delicate foliage. Dry Paris green mixed with air-slaked
lime in the proportion of about 1 part of Paris green to 10 or 20
of lime is sometimes used, but is less effective, and frequently much
of the material is wasted in applying it.

The spraying apparatus used in the hopyards of British Columbia
is shown in Plate V and figure 18, the second illustration showing a
crew spraying hops through the rows.

CONTACT SPRAYS.

Among the contact sprays tried during 1908 were whale-oil soap,
1 pound of soap to 10 gallons of water; kerosene emulsion, } pound

“Prepared in accordance with instructions in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 283, p. 387.
> Discussed in the publication quoted, as also in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 127.
66—VI

86 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

soap and 1 gallon of kerosene to 25 gallons of water; resin, 1 pound
to 16 gallons of water; and black leaf tobacco extract, 1 gallon to 65
gallons of water. Of these Mr. Quayle says that the last seemed most
effective, with kerosene emulsion next, and that none of these sprays
in the given proportion injured the foliage at all.

It is entirely possible to kill most of the beetles well hit by the spray, but
many escape between clods in the soil or are protected by the vine or are con-
cealed in the growing tip. The percentage killed, however, will be satisfactory,
but this [treatment] must be repeated so often that the operation becomes
laborious and costly.

While kerosene emulsion and whale-oil soap are practically never
advised as standard remedies for mandibulate or chewing insects,

Fic. 18.—A crew spraying hops in British Columbia. (Original.)

such as this flea-beetle, both are employed in the infested terri-
tory against the hop aphis, or “louse,” and therefore the hop grower
is familar with their preparation and use. It has been ascertained
that when these are used against the hop aphis the flea-beetles coming
into contact with the emulsion are killed. The probabilities are that
kerosene emulsion properly prepared and applied in the affected
regions will be considerably less expensive than a tobacco extract, and
it is possible to make a tobacco extract which would be comparatively
cheap. In recent experiments made under the writer’s direction at
Norfolk, Va., whale-oil soap, used at the rate of about 1 pound to 10
gallons of water, employed against aphides, has proved quite as ef-
fective and as economical as kerosene emulsion, considering the fact
66——ViI

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 7

that unskilled laborers are likely to make imperfect emulsions and
waste the material in applying it. With competent help, and other
things being equal, kerosene-soap emulsion should be the more eco-
nomical spray. It would be well to continue the use of kerosene emul-
sion at varying rates, including the rate that has been already used
and up to 1 pound of soap and 1 gallon of kerosene emulsion to 30
gallons of water. It is possible that if the emulsion were diluted
with 10 gallons of water still better results might be obtained, but if
labor is cheap the weaker solution, other things being equal, should
prove to be the more economical preparation.

BORDEAUX MIXTURE.

Bordeaux mixture, as has been known for years and frequently
demonstrated, is a powerful deterrent against flea-beetles and other
leaf-beetles, and its use should be continued. Since, as appears to be
demonstrated by the observations of Mr. Quayle, this flea-beetle is
quite discriminating in taste, it would be well to apply Bordeaux
mixture over a considerable surface and use Paris green or arsenate
of lead for the remainder of a field, 1. ¢., to spray the majority of the
plants in such manner that those which reject the Bordeaux mixture
on treated plants would resort to those sprayed with Paris green or
arsenate of lead. It should be determined which of these two insecti-
cides has the greater deterrent effect against flea-beetles.

MECHANICAL AND CULTURAL METHODS.

Trap crops.—The great fondness displayed by this species for
rhubarb suggests the use of the latter between rows, e. g., in the vicin-
ity of woods, as an attraction or lure for the beetles, it being believed
that the beetles will concentrate on these plants and thus give the crops
an opportunity to grow to a sufficient height and strength to be able to
resist the ravages of the pest. Since certain cruciferous crops are
also attacked, such as turnips, it is further suggested that these and
other varieties lke swedes and rutabagas, rape, and mustard be
employed. In the mild climate of the infested region all of these
can be grown during the winter, and it seems probable that kale will
be found equally effective. Beets, especially mangels, are grown in
the affected region and tests should be made with these as trap crops,
as also with sugar beet in regions where this crop can be grown
profitably.

Rolling the fields —One of the remedies attempted against this flea-
beetle in its occurrence in beet fields, as reported by Doctor Ball,
consists in the use of rollers. He reports that “running a corrugated
roller over the field as soon as the damage is first discovered seems

66—VI

88 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

to have a very good effect. Just why, 1s not so clear, possibly because
it loosens the ground, breaking up any crust that may have formed,
and allows all the beets to get through at one time and in this way
some of them get ahead of the beetles. The farmers think it kills
the beetles. Cleaning up hedge-banks-and rubbish around the fields
has been recommended and appears to have had a good effect. It is
a lamentable fact that a field that is shghtly weedy when the beets
appear will not be injured as badly as one that is free from weeds,
which probably accounts for the fact that replanted beets are rarely
destroyed.”

The use of fertilizers——Where fertilizers are used the plants are
undoubtedly aided in recovering from attack by this flea-beatle, but
fertilizers are not remedies. Possibly where mineral fertilizers are
applied heavily they might have some effect on the larvee, but it is
doubtful if a sufficient amount of an irritant salt would remain in
the earth to destroy any large percentage of larvee at the time when
those which have just developed from the egg or have just molted are
feeding on the roots. It is worth mentioning, however, that Mr.
Theo. Eder noticed that when a fertilizer consisting of 3 per cent
nitrogen from nitrate of soda, 12 per cent potassium oxid (K,O)
from muriate (chlorid) of potash, and 9 per cent phosphorus pen-
toxid (P,O,) from superphosphates was applied there were prac-
tically no flea-beetles. This fertilizer, however, was considered too
expensive, owing to the cheapness of hops in the affected region of
British Columbia.

Trrigation.—Wrrigation has been suggested and, on the authority
of Prof. E. G. Titus, the flea-beetle, when it is working on sugar
beets, can be driven away during irrigation by disturbing the beets,
thus causing the beetles to jump into the water and be swept away.?

Tarred catchers.—TVarred sheets, boards, or similar contrivances on
the plan of “ hopperettes,” in use against leafhoppers, have been em-
ployed in the infested region for capturing the flea-beetles. Mr.
Hulbert reports having destroyed large numbers by catching them
on tarred sheets as they fell from the vines after being disturbed.
Mr. Quayle also reports success with a “ catcher” which he describes
substantially as follows:

The receptacle used consists of a stout canvas about 38 feet by 4, to which is
nailed, on the under side, three strips of boards with one at right angles, to
keep the canvas taut. A handle is fastened to two of these strips to project
upward and backward, by means of which the apparatus is operated. This is
lifted from vine to vine and the beetles jarred off with wisps of hay. Usually
two men work together on the same row, the two canvases placed together on
each side of the vine.

¢Bul. 67, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 112, 1907.
66—VI

“TTBY UL Asoo
‘syooys MoU INO Jud OF UBSeq SdoYy puR A[NL JO SRT oY} YYMOULOS payee sapjoog

pooM

“LSNONY NI GAHdVYSOLOH, SAIN YO ANNE NI GSAOWSY SVM ANIML ONINIVEL HOIHM WOYS SA713I4 dOH

}doy YAO

‘adninyserd dooys Aq uMOp

AOA parngsed YyMois Jrot-doyy

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

PLATE VI.

wR OS Rs ys
oe
TE 2 eee
“ > ee
ig e “ay
~ wt

te Baa

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 89

This method captures a satisfactory percentage of the beetles and
should be comparatively inexpensive. But unfortunately the re-
peated operations which are necessary bring the cost to a high figure.
It cost Mr. Hulbert last year approximately $1.25 per acre for each
operation. He went over his vines six times, and some parts of the
yard eight or ten times. He expected to go over it at least twice
more, so that the total cost would be from $10 to $15 per acre.

In figure 19 a portion of a hop field is shown which illustrates the
tarred “boards” in place for use. The flea-beetles are dusted off
of the vines upon these tarred receptacles with wisps of hay, as

I'iag. 19.—Portion of hop field with tarred boards in place. Flea-beetles are dusted with
wisps of hay from the vines onto tarred boards. (Original.)

described above. All of the vines were tanglefooted, but the flea-
beetles went up the poles and crossed over on the wires overhead until
the tanglefoot was applied. Plate VII illustrates the method of
capturing the hop flea-beetle on tarred horse sledges, also by shaking
the vines. Millions were captured in this way.

CLEAN CULTIVATION.

Frequent stirring of the soil and other cultural operations seem,
as yet, to be of no appreciable help, according to Mr. Quayle, and the
kind of soil also seems to have little or nothing to do with the abun-

66—VI

90 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

dance of the beetles, which are found in light, sandy, and heavy soils.
Mr. Quayle further says:

The control measures which have been tried have been necessarily directed
entirely against the adult or beetle, and considering the rapid growth of the
vines and the continuous appearance of the beetles no effective and practical
remedy has yet appeared. With further work on the younger stages it may
be possible to find here a vulnerable point of attack.

One of the most promising remedies for this as well as other insect
pests is the employment of clean methods of culture. Since it has been
found that the flea-beetles ensconce themselves in any available shel-
ter, such as the cracks in the hop poles, even although these may have
no bark remaining, it has been thought desirable to dip the poles in
a preparation which will not only close the cracks but which will also
repel the pests. Fuel oil, a grade of crude petroleum, is being tried,
according to Mr. Eder, since it can be purchased as low as 2 cents
a gallon. Tar might serve the same purpose and should act as
strongly as a repellent and close the cracks more closely and would
not be so disagreeable to handle. The poles are dipped into the
boiling fuel oil, but the tar would also have to be heated very hot
before dipping.

It is customary to plow thoroughly and to cultivate where possible
so as to keep down the weeds, and this method of tillage must, of
course, be continued, as the insects find food in weeds of the kind
which have been mentioned in the opening paragraph, viz, dock,
lamb’s-quarters, pigweed, and the like, and also cruciferous weeds.
If, by preventing the insects from hibernating in the hop fields in
débris, the fields can be practically freed from them, the next step
is to prevent their hibernating in near-by timber, as there can be
little doubt that in such places are their favorite winter quarters.
It is practicable in many cases to cut down small sections of timber
in order to accomplish this purpose.

In answer to the question as to the remnants after the hops are
picked, Mr. Eder informed the writer that the expedient of cutting
the tops and destroying them by burning led to the discovery that the
beetles enter into the hollow stalks, remaining in hibernation there
in great numbers. With the discovery of this habit he will permit
remnants to remain as long as there is any prospect of the insects’
trying to obtain winter eer in them, and then will have all débris
burned at about the time of the first frost. One method of destroy-
ing field remnants and weeds, by sheep pasturage, is illustrated by
Plate VI.

The writer has suggested the addition of burlap wrapped about
the poles which have been treated with tar or which do not have an
odor strong enough to repel the insect. This will attract the insects
for hibernation, and can be removed after the first frost, or there-

66—VI

PLATE VII.

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

}

ar"

¢

METHOD OF CAPTURING Hop FLEA-BEETLES ON TARRED HORSE SLEDGES BY SHAKING THE VINES; MILLIONS CAPTURED IN THIS WAY.

(ORIGINAL.)

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 91°

abouts, and thrown into hot water, and after drying will be available
for use in other seasons.

If, with another year’s experience, we could ascertain how best to
control the insect, either by killing the beetles with arsenate of lead
or other arsenical, kerosene emulsion, or whale-oil soap, or by destroy-
ing the larve in the ground, the problem would be partially solved.
One, two, or perhaps even three of these remedies might be used in
combination and excellent results obtained. In any case, if we can
partially control the insects by any one of them we should not forget
that cultural remedies, and especially clean culture, are the most
valuable remedies that can possibly be employed against insect pests.
Indeed, with many species, if cultural practices were properly fol-
lowed out, with the cooperation of our neighbors, insecticides would
in the course of time, after the balance of nature had been restored,
seldom be needed save in case of severe outbreaks, which are likely
to occur more or less spasmodically with most of our noxious insects.

LITERATURE.

A complete bibliography of this species is appended and only a
brief review of published accounts need be given. The original
description of the species appeared in 1847,' and it was not until
twenty years later that we had any record of the insect’s habits. In
1867 Fitch? wrote a two-page account regarding injury to cucumber,
rhubarb, and radish, furnishing notes on a parasitic natural enemy.
In 1884 our first account of injury to hops, a brief one, was written
by Dr. J. B. Smith. These accounts were followed by one from
Piper * on injuries to certain truck crops in Washington State in 1895
and by Doane ® of similar injuries in 1900. The writer’ noted the
abundance of the species on rhubarb near Washington, D. C., in 1897.
Forbes and Hart’ have given a brief account of the insect from the
standpoint of its injuries to sugar beet in Illinois, and Fletcher *°
published two accounts of the species in 1904 and 1907, respectively.
In 1908 was published H. J. Quayle’s article,’? in which first mention
is made of the larval habits of the insect.

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. MetsHetrmer, F. E.—Proec. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., Vol. III, p. 166, 1847.
Original description from Pennsylvania as Haltica punctulata n. sp.
2. Fircu, AsA.—11th Rept. Ins. New York, pp. 38-40, 1867.

A 2-page account with mention of food plants and a parasite; observed feeding on
cucumber, rhubarb, and radish.

3. Fircu, AsA.—Ill’d Ann. Reg. Rural Affairs, 1867—S-9, Vol. V, p. 204, 1873.
A brief note, with mention of attack on cucumber and melon.
4, Smiru, J. B.—Bul. 4, 0. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 50, 1884.

Mere mention of occurrence in hopyards, where the beetles eat small holes in the
leaves, doing no great damage.

5. Horn, G. H.—Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., Vol. XVI, pp. 310, 311, 319, 1889.
Revised technical description, distribution, and systematic bibliography.
66—VI

92 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

6. Piper, C. V.—Bul. 17, Wash. State Agr. Exp. Sta., pp. 55, 56, 1895.

Short general account, with list of food plants. Species stated to be “by far the
most destructive flea-beetle in the State”? [of Washington].

7. CHITTENDEN, F. H.—Bul. 9, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 22, 1897.
Short note on abundant occurrence on rhubarb near Washington, D. C.
8. Doane, R. W.—Bul. 42, Wash. Agr. Exp. Sta., pp. 11, 12, figs. 2, 3, 1900.
A 2-page general account with two original illustrations.
9. Forbes and Hartr.—Bul. 60, Univ. Tl. Agr. Exp. Sta., p. 472, 1900; 21st
Rept. State Ent. Ills., p. 124.
A brief account; on sugar beet in Illinois.
10. FLercner, JAs.—Rept. Entom. and Bot. Canada for 1903 (1904), p. 177.
Mere mention as affecting hops at Sardis, B. C., in noticeable numbers.
11. Fietcuer, Jas.—Rept. Entom. and Bot. Canada for 1906 (1907), p. 215.

Account of injuries in the Fraser. River Valley, B. C., in 1906, with quotations
from John Wilson, Agassiz; Thos. Cunningham, Vancouver; and H. Hulbert, Sardis,
B. C., which include experiences with remedies.

12. QuayLe, H. J.—Journ. Econ. Ent., Vol. I, p. 325, October, 1908.

A short article, with notes of injury in British Columbia; account of habits, all
stages, including the egg, being taken 3 to 6 inches from the surface of the ground,
larve feeding at the roots of hop and other plants growing in the yards; list of
food plants, and difficulties of applying remedies.

SUMMARY.

The hop flea-beetle, a minute, black insect, feeds on various succu-
lent plants. It does serious damage to hops in British Columbia and
less injury to sugar beet and vegetable crops in the Pacific coast
region.

Its life history is only partially known, but all stages have been
found about the roots of hops and the larva probably feeds on most
of the same plants as the adult. It is feared that this species may
‘become an important hop-pest in Washington and Oregon, and it
doubtless does more injury to beets than is generally accredited to it.
Injury is most severe to young plants, but on sugar beet the operations
of the beetles throughout the season undoubtedly have a deleterious
effect and necessarily decrease the yield.

The abundance of the beetles when they appear early in the season
on young plants, their constant reappearance, and the constant new
growth of the plants from day to day make it difficult to apply
direct remedies with more than temporary benefit. Where the hops
are sprayed with kerosene emulsion or whale-oil soap for the hop
aphis the numbers of the beetles are lessened. Among measures
which give promise of value are the institution of clean methods of
cultivation, including deep fall plowing, treating hop poles in such
manner as to prevent the beetles from hibernating in them, and clear-
ing all remnants from fields so as to leave them as bare as possible to
prevent the beetles from sheltering there in winter. Arsenate of lead,
Paris green, kerosene emulsion, whale-oil soap, and Bordeaux mixture
should receive further tests, as should the employment of trap crops
in the manner advised in this article.

66—VI
S)

is DEPARTMENT -OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 66, Part VII.

L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-
CROP INSECTS.

F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,

In Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations.

Issuep Juty 19, 1909.

A

332
WASHINGTON: x01

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1909.

erie oe von es ans, ? 5 ms
Ay Fe Ot ee
Successful use of arsenate of lead against the asparagus beetle-..------
A note on the asparagus EINCT 22S eat ote ee ne ae
Injurious occurrence of the pea moth in the United States Sty Gee, seat ee 28
Anew western root mageot-'22s.0 2.24252 uot eet aa eee eee
Notées‘on watercress insects =: :52. 22 52555 oa seen eee eee
ir
: °
a Lines
/ i;
visas
sOUN V7
/ KO] / Ai)

U.S. D. A., Bul. 66, Part VII. Issued July 19, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,

In Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations.

SUCCESSFUL USE OF ARSENATE OF LEAD AGAINST THE
ASPARAGUS BEETLE.

During the first week of June, 1908, Mr. W. A. Orton reported the
common asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi L.) very injurious at
Takoma Park, D. C., and made some experiments with arsenate of
lead with complete success. Directions for application, as given in
Circular 102 of this Bureau, were followed. The first application was
made with 1 pound of arsenate of lead to 20 gallons of water and the
second a week later, as the plants had grown rapidly in the mean-
time and a great many new larve had hatched. The second appli-
cation was made at the rate of 1 pound to 15 gallons of water. The
first application destroyed most of the insects, but after a few days
a considerable number had developed. These appeared to have been
all killed the day after the second spraying. Neither spraying seemed
to injure the plants in the least, but the liquid adhered in fine drops to
the foliage and was visible there for some time. An unsprayed plat
on a neighbor’s place was considerably injured by these insects, and up
to July 1 no more had appeared on Mr. Orton’s crop. He pronounced
the treatment very effective. The work was done with a compressed-
air machine or autospray.

Mr. Edward A. Eames, Buffalo, N. Y., writing of the value of
arsenate of lead as a means of combating the common asparagus

Notr.—The accompanying Part VII includes short notes on some of the
insects which have been treated in earlier parts of this bulletin and notes on
two insects not hitherto recorded as injurious in the United States. To the
former class belong notes on the asparagus beetles and the asparagus miner,
species considered more in detail in Part I, pages 1-10, and notes on water-
cress insects in addition to what has been published in Part II, pages 11-20.
To the second class belong notes on the injurious occurrence of the pea moth in
the United States and a short account of a new western root-maggot.—F. H. C.

93

94 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

beetle, stated that the larve of this species threatened to devour his
this year’s spring-set asparagus to the ground. But after one thor-
ough spraying with arsenate of lead it was difficult to find any but
dead larvee on the plants. Successive sprayings were of course neces-
sary, because the beetles continued to come from neighboring gardens
to deposit eggs on the plants and because the developing plants con-
tinually presented fresh unsprayed foliage for larval food.

Mr. Eames stated positively that arsenate of lead adhered well,
even through several rains, just as its various promoters claimed—
a fact which justifies its use in any case even at more initial cost
than other poisons which might be used. He also expressed the view
that asparagus growers generally should be impressed with the fact
that, because of the tendency to spray only once, additional informa-
tion should be given of the value of extra applications. In conclusion,
he stated that he believed arsenate of lead was a specific for this
class of insects.

Our correspondent is undoubtedly right. It seems to be as nearly
a specific for asparagus beetles as anything that can be obtained,
provided it is applied according to directions and that applications
are repeated as often as necessary. The trouble is that many truck
growers, after spraying a single time, consider that the matter should
then be dropped, and if the desired result is not produced, 1. e., if the
trouble is not wholly stopped, the spraying is condemned or at any
rate the insecticide is discontinued, while all that is necessary for
the entire season is a second or third application.

A NOTE ON THE ASPARAGUS MINER.

The asparagus miner (Agromyza simplea Loew) was reported by
Mr. I. J. Condit in the vicinity of Antioch, Cal., August 19, 1908,
where the common asparagus beetle was also abundant. The miner
was said to be equally numerous and stalks showing infestation were
received. The miner-infested stalks could generally be detected by
their roughened appearance near the ground.

This species was also taken by Mr. Condit at Oakley and it seems
probable, since the common asparagus beetle is found in both local-
ities, that it is becoming generally distributed in California. In one
place at Oakley Mr. Condit observed the miner quite common on some
stalks, but it did not appear to be equally common over the entire
ranch.

During October, 1908, the writer observed this species well estab-
lished on asparagus in the vicinity of Portsmouth, Va. In October,
also, Mr. J. B. Norton reported very severe injury to asparagus in
the vicinity of Concord, Mass. The roots of the plants were not
only girdled, but the miners worked up the stalks some inches above
the ground.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS. 95

INJURIOUS OCCURRENCE OF THE PEA MOTH IN THE UNITED
STATES.

Prominent among the injurious occurrences of the year 1908 was
the discovery of the pea moth (Hnarmonia nigricana Steph.) for the
first time in the State of Michigan. August 10 we received from Mr.
J. E. W. Tracy, Bureau of Plant Industry, specimens of the larva of
this species and its work in growing peas and pods from Charlevoix,
Mich.

Mr. Tracy wrote that he obtained the specimens on that day and
some days earlier and that Mr. E. W. Coulter and others in that
vicinity knew nothing of the identity of this insect, which was causing
them considerable concern. The caterpillar first showed itself in
very small numbers four or five years before, but it had increased
rapidly until the year of writing, when 15 per cent of the peas were
ruined. The insect appears to start operations by eating the embryo
stem and then moves along the pod until it makes its exit and dis-
appears. Early varieties of peas were the worst sufferers in the
affected district. At the time of writing our correspondent found a
less number of living larve than previously.

This appears to be the first record of the appearance of this insect
in the United States, although it has been known as a pest in Canada
for several years and has undoubtedly been present in our Northern
States, where peas are grown, without having been recognized as
anything new or unusual.

A two-page account of this species has been published by the writer
in Bulletin No. 33, pages 96-98, which includes a brief illustrated
description of the moth and larva and a consideration of the distri-
bution, nomenclature, history, habits, and remedies.

This insect first came to notice near Toronto, Ontario, in 1893, and
notices of its ravages in Canada were given in several subsequent
years by the late Dr. James Fletcher in his report as entomologist
and botanist of the Dominion of Canada. It is an importation from
the Old World and is well established in New Brunswick and Nova
Scotia as well as in Ontario, and is also recorded from Manitoba.

The name of this species was omitted from the Dyar catalogue of
Lepidoptera, but is included in Smith’s Check List of Lepidoptera
under No. 5702. In most publications the species is mentioned as
Semuasia nigricana.

A NEW WESTERN ROOT MAGGOT.

August 16, 1907, Mr. E. M. Ehrhorn sent from San Francisco, Cal.,
some radishes, the roots of which were affected by a maggot. The
adults were reared September 3 to 20 and were referred to Mr. D. W.
Coquillett for identification. They were first mistaken for Pegomya
cepetorum, because of the very close relation of the two species, but

96 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

when more material of both sexes was obtained they were seen to
be different. Mr. Coquillett states that some individuals have the
bristles practically as in cepetorum, but in the males the median
black stripe of the abdomen is continuous. This material corresponds
so well with Stein’s description® of Chortophila planipalpis as to
leave no reasonable doubt of the species. The type locality is Idaho.
The insect will therefore be known as Pegomya planipalpis Stein,
and may be called the western radish maggot. Another lot of the
maggot was received from the same source October 1, larve and
pup both being present. From this lot adults issued November
itor Zi"

November 21, 1908, we received from Mr. Charles Heise, Aber-
deen, Wash., a section of turnip mined by larve which are probably
of this species, as also a number of puparia. Our correspondent
stated that his observations showed that the maggot works on onions
as well as on turnips. As we do not know to the contrary, and do
not know positively of the occurrence of any onion maggot in that
State, this surmise may be correct. It remains to be verified or dis-
proven. The seed-corn maggot (Pegomya fusciceps Zett.) occurs
in that region and is more apt to be the onion-feeding species.

Two natural enemies of this radish maggot have come under ob-
servation and have been identified by Mr. J. C. Crawford, as follows:

Aphreta sp.—September 3, 1908, many braconids of a species of
the genus Aphawreta emerged from material in which this root-—
maggot was breeding in infested radish from San Francisco, Cal.
It is a small species, shining black in color, with dusky wings and—
yellow legs. In some specimens there are 21 joints to the antenne
on one side and 22 on the other. It is very similar to the type of
musce, but is larger.

Polypeza sp.—This species was reared from its host October 10,
1907, and appears to be undescribed.

NOTES ON WATER-CRESS INSECTS.

The water-cress leaf-beetle—May 2, 1907, Mr. J. W. Bryan brought
to this office from Halltown, W. Va., specimens of the water-cress
leaf-beetle (Phwdon wruginosa Suffr.), present in the beetle and
larval forms, the larve at that time about half grown. The beetles
were beginning to die and a fungus attack was noticed when received.
Numerous individuals of the beetle and one larva were parasitized by
the fungus. The fungus was tentatively determined by Mr. Haven
Metcalf, Bureau of Plant Industry, as Hntomophthora spherosperma.
Tf this identification is correct, there can be no doubt that the fungus
attacked the insect before death, and may therefore be a factor of
value in its natural destruction.

7 Berl. Ent. Zeitschr., Vol. XLII, pp. 234-235, 1897.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS. 97

Since the publication of the writer’s preliminary articles on the
water-cress leaf-beetle and sowbug in the present bulletin (pp. 11-20)
it has been noticed that earlier accounts of the related European
Phedon betulew L., known as the mustard beetle and “ blackjack,”
were made by Miss E. A. Ormerod, who furnished several references
with illustrations in her manual.” From this account it appears that
injury was first noticed, at least in England, in 1854, to white mustard
crops near Ely. Another account of this insect is given in the same
author’s report for 1886.2

The water-cress sowbug.—April 16, 1907, Mr. C. A. Killinger, Ship-
pensburg, Pa., sent specimens of the water-cress sowbug (J/ancasellus
brachyurus Harg.) in different stages, stating that it was destroying
his water cress, working on the leaves under water, cutting them close
to the stem. If the cress is hght or does not grow fast, as happens in
winter, they also work on the stems and roots, cutting the plants loose
and causing them to float downstream. Our correspondent thought
that this species was brought to that section from Virginia.

Experiments conducted with lime in a small spring the previous
summer succeeded in killing most of the sowbugs, but plenty of them
remained at the time of writing. The lime, however, burned the
cress, causing it to turn yellow.

December 23, 1908, Mr. F. W. Houston, a grower and shipper of
water cress at Lexington, Va., wrote of this species, inquiring for
literature and a remedy. He stated that he had a spring under culti-
vation that was infested with the water-cress sowbug, and later
March 11, 1909—he sent specimens. In this connection he wrote as
follows:

I have a spring under cultivation which has been infested by them for several
years. I fought them for a time by putting the water into ditches and exposing
the rest of the cress bed to the sun. In these ditches I would make frequent
applications of lime; this, of course, was done during the early summer, after
the shipping season closes. It seems to kill all of the sowbugs, but when I put
the water into the beds and reset the cress, hauling it from an uninfested spring,
it was not long until the “ bugs” were again noticed, and in a short time they
were as thick as ever.

Mr. Houston was advised that in the case of the old beds the water
should be drawn or turned off and that the cress should be completely
destroyed and the spring reset with uninfested cress.

@Manual of Injurious Insects and Methods of Prevention. London, 1890,
pp. 151-156.
+ Report on Injurious Insects for 1886, pp. 59-60.

O

> ae N ahs 0

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 66.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

CONTENTS AND INDEX.

Issuep Marca 17, 1910.

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1910,

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY—BULLETIN No. 66.
L.O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

I. THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, L£ntomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
II. THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.
THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE.
By F. H. CHITTENDEN, L£ntomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.
Ill. THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM.
THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

IV. THE LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET AND THEIR RELATION TO THE
“CURLY-LEAF” CONDITION.

By E. D. BALL, Ph. D., Special Field Agent.

V. THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN and H. M. RUSSELL.

VI. THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

VII. MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Se. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations.

Ss

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFIOK.
1910.

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
©. L. Maruarr, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R. S. Currron, Executive Assistant.
Cuas. J. Gruuiss, Chief Clerk.

F. H. CarrrenvEN, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
A. D. Hopkins, in charge of forest insect investigations.

W. D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.

F. M. Wesster, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.

A. L. QuaInTANCE, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.

E. F. Paruips, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Rocers, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.

Roa P. Currie, in charge of editorial work.

Mase. Cotcorp, librarian.

TrRuCK-ORop AND StoRED Propucr INsEcT INVESTIGATIONS.
F. H. CarrrenvEN, in charge.
H. M. Russe, C. H. Porenogz, D. K. McMittan, H. O. Marsu, E. G. Smytu,
Tnos. H. Jones, agents and experts.

E. D. Batn,¢ special field agent.
E. G. Tirus,2 I. J. Connit, H. S. Hetter,’ W. B. ParKer, collaborators.

@ Resigned June 30, 1909. 6 Resigned January 31, 1910.
u

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
Bureau or ENTOMOLOGY,
Washington, D. C., January 25, 1910.

Sm: I have the honor to transmit herewith, for publication as
Bulletin No. 66, seven papers dealing with certain insects injurious
to truck crops. These papers, which were issued separately during
the years 1907 and 1909, are as follows: The Asparagus Miner and
Notes on the Asparagus Beetles, by F. H. Chittenden; The Water-
Cress Sowbug and the Water-Cress Leaf-Beetle, by F’. H. Chittenden;
The Cranberry Spanworm and the Striped Garden Caterpillar, by
F. H. Chittenden; The Leafhoppers of the Sugar Beet and Their
Relation to the “‘Curly-Leaf” Condition, by E. D. Ball; The Semi-
tropical Army Worm, by F. H. Chittenden and H. M. Russell; The
Hop Flea-Beetle, by F. H. Chittenden; Miscellaneous Notes on
Truck-Crop Insects, by F. H. Chittenden.

Respectfully,
L. O. Howarp,
Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
Hon. James WILson,
Secretary of Agriculture.

It

Aki Re
Ce eal |
vcaeithigh Acai SOOM: 46

he : . ia ik

Vas de 2 Oh |

ear : sahil Me nit Hie hatin
(id ne F Naot ylionuetn ”

mn i aAihare.

Reel) MCAT
oy Wath ONS, a SLR Syne HR
AS WN A, ts if on salons ok

(ADRES ra Te Mie pegs) 4 a as

Ko iy :
ah

hth

PREFACE.

The present publication comprises a series of articles which have
been issued in seven parts and are now brought together as a single
bulletin. It relates to a line of investigations begun in 1896, the
earlier results of which were published in previous bulletins of: the
present series, in Yearbooks of the Department, and in circulars of
the Bureau. The title, ““Some Insects Injurious to Truck Crops,”
is used in a wide sense and includes insects injurious to sugar beet,
since the same classes of insects which affect this important crop also
attack table beets and spinach.

The initial article is the first treatment that has been given to the
asparagus miner in a Government publication. The second article,
entitled ‘‘Notes on the asparagus beetles,” is a sequel to a general
article on the asparagus beetles which appeared in the Yearbook for
1896. It places on record all important new localities to date, and
furnishes similarly the latest information in regard to remedies. The
importance which has been assumed by the water-cress sowbug since
1902 has necessitated the preparation of a publication covering this
species, with suggestions for its control. The subject of water-cress
insects has never been considered in’ a Department publication hith-
erto, and similar treatment of the water-cress leaf-beetle to that
furnished on the sowbug follows. The cranberry spanworm is given
monographic treatment not hitherto furnished for it. It is an omniv-
orous feeder, and has attracted attention on various crops, and
especially on asparagus and strawberry. A similar article on the
striped garden caterpillar, also an omnivorous form, completes
Part III of the bulletin.

The article representing Part IV is a detailed consideration of the
sugar-beet leafhopper and of other affiliated species in their relation
to the “‘curly-leaf’’ condition of the sugar beet. It was prepared by
Dr. E. D. Ball, while special field agent of this Bureau in Utah; he
has been engaged on this work for a number of years. The semi-
tropical army worm is the subject of Part V. It was the most trouble-
some insect on truck crops in Florida during 1907, and was given
detailed study from every possible standpoint by the authors. In the
experiments with remedies, which were conducted by the junior

v

VI SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

author, Mr. H. M. Russell, a series of 15 trials was performed, proving
that a spray of arsenate of lead is far superior to Paris green under local
conditions. The final article of the series, entitled ‘‘The hop flea-
beetle,’ has been a subject of study for a number of years. Its
treatment is monographic to date, and, while some of the data fur-
nished are preliminary in character, it will constitute a basis for future
work on the same species. This insect is given the name of flea-beetle
because of the local name, ‘‘hop flea,’”’ used in the hop-growing region
of the Pacific coast, but it is also a pest in sugar-beet fields and injuri-
ous to rhubarb, radishes, and other truck crops. In the preparation
of the article the writer has been fortunate in obtaining the coopera-
tion of various experts, including, particularly, Messrs. H. J. Quayle
and Theodor Eder.

Following this article are a few miscellaneous notes on truck-crop
insects, the first two giving additional information in regard to the
principal asparagus pests treated in Part I, the last furnishing addi-
tional observations on the water-cress insects treated in Part II, with
notes on the first injurious occurrence of the destructive pea moth
and of a western root-maggot in the United States.

F. H. CairrEnDEN.

CONTE N-ES?

Page,
The asparagus miner (Agromyza simplex Loew)... ..------- F. H. Chittenden. . 1
RGR EERO Sera. Spa lohahata 0s nn whetars'aiain'ain’in's' ata Ree re II ee aaa ne ee 1
EEA REOMER pA ae ARS tt mS. Js ale Sea IS eee om ane tense 2:
EEOLICal and -oIOlOpIeal NOtes. . 2. =~ =-~-— se bee se ee eee es eee = 2
SABOOMUMETNE Cosa falta. 0 ara antowan tae Ae eae oe eae Races as 3
emaTiIGe NGIMCASUEE Ss = a5 Sse rao to's Sian nals s PED oe ood eee cette eas 4
Notes on the asparagus beetles. ae oh i ..F. H. Chittenden. - 6
The common asparagus beetle GOriocencet aaparagt i. ). Pe tk sae ie oe 6
The twelve-spotted asparagus beetle (Crioceris 12-punctata L.).....------- >
The water-cress sowbug ( Mancasellus brachyurus Harger). . ..F'. H. Chittenden. - 11
{BYSS2) a5 0 TS (ne oe i ee ite eg nes Ll a a it
Reporte mia ULOUB OCCUIIGRCEY S220 ow). wat ol. os Joe cde selec eee e 12
Method sioincomproleys +252 rer says a gota gat ie tooo. ee Seek 12
The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phxdon xruginosa Suffr.)...--..- F. H. Chittenden. . 16
ATIETOUSIOC CUNTCN COM act peta Aree ee aoe she Se aN eS eee aes eee 16
LDIPSSUCUPLN Sg ae 8 Ee SS aa ee Re ee ee i a 16
MERRIE eer ey ts ete os ese ak cee. SU et es oc ee 18
Habits:of this and'a related species —..~ --. 2 22. ./ ee ee eee ese e es 18
MMO a HOMGOMELOLE recension vstocormaras Seas ee. See eee hey Slade 19
The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria Guen.)........F. H. Chittenden. . 21
CHET PUR es soa Pe sear o as eae osSe loca da tae tatsenees saccosmhesne 21
PERCE RM UNRUL (SENN cee gee) Whos FA te cl Ae Nets ci oe I OPA J 8 UI Be oe 23
nO RMU OT AN URG 9a ep ont ay toto at Sty ot At ts Salata Da Me aceite Soin 24
inp ub lishedsoicemotesss oo s5.. 80 = s.nac cctleccslo te. tjeeuss ~ otek woot ae 25.
EAE MOENOOU PIES. cayrcteaero sake. oes WIS LOS. Se Ie th lacie Ma ceed = 25
MERE LINCO U BAILOWMISLORY 2 7c e tot fontini ute se ata taco e ee enced 26.
I AGUTA MPH OTINCH 2 515505 25 ctu atin sian inte nial tod ae Be at Asad teats 26
Ree MM IOR certo spat anl scatter tha Sse dacs ee aC ae 26
LEV (ofeg 24 31) 2 een Ae en a ee DSP Me, Mea POP EC Ry Lape eS ae 27
The striped garden caterpillar (Mamestra legitima Grote)....F. H. Chittenden. - 28.
PIERO OI Ga see ena s Sot) faa del Sado /t nla srNascsicihe doses eee Pee 28.
BOM MIQUCHE a doeae Wards oS acl oS te StI ae ales d cle soe aecwndssemense 29)
AEM MON OMICS 15 a4 sso sse sc cres ls SoU Lbs ee ae cee Le 3k
BONY OL ORGS och AS oc lvin Sar tstd dade dade Se irddawescclswaewk aceon 32:
AOR COMMEDNs oo ay Ses ato do 3 eco dcocud gases dsae racer sad Gees cone 32
The leafhoppers of the sugar beet and their relation to the ‘‘curly-leaf” condi-

LOS ea Ee eC re eee eet neve © ieee Smee im as E. D. Ball 33
PHITGGUCHOU SR Ax gotig users ode rasse ss Ste SE Lek le toe. 33
The beet leafhopper (Eutettiz tenella Baker)....:.........0-----22------- 35

iD chaps) cp eR een APE Ser Pee he EE tA ee ee 35-
OME Py A os tate ae an esa a I a aioe Uw, oain'sini elate auc afew e's soos 35
DMM GUO. fk wine ees ed eee ace een oes ioe Sew ae neues cease 36
Pave ISL SCMCMESe eee eet ten Nai ee Seti Se oa tees Sos adace ee sent 36
PEOHOMIC; FOIMUIONGs.2-sn6un Ustsene o SSoas pwOOg lee aac ls idee joes duce 41
Economic summary and proposed remedies..................-..----- 47
Bapceraphical TOIGKGNGORs 74.6) 565 yates ue eee cin een ee 48

a The seven papers constituting this bulletin 1 were issued in separate form on March
16, April 23, and August 31, 1907, and on January 27, January 28, May 8, and July 19,
1909, respectively.

27518—Bull. 66—10——2 vu

VIII

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

‘The leafhoppers of the sugar beet and their relation to the ‘‘curly-leaf’’ con-

dition—Continued.

Other leathoppers iui eo Bee ey a Ae ee Sek A eee ee ee

Pritethc strobe Wied le oie wee ee a es ene
Fiitettia sevice Wale oe ects ye cree se iY ere te OR es ie ead ope ar
Eutetivn semmnuda Say sso) Stee 6 oh ak ie ee eG rhe eee
Butetive clarmida: Va TW Zee sees ee eee eee eee nel i eee
Eutettiz insana Ball, E. albida Ball, and E. pauperculata Ball...-..-..-.
Hutethae stricta ball ie: ic tare sein clea ote, ee EST a te Tee a
AQLIiVONSONGUINOLENTAUELONE set eats Teer ee eee ee ee
Agalla cimered: Osborn/and Ball) wel BA leet ee ee ae
Agaltig bigelovix Baker. 28 sp.2 4 oe sss i ohne Settee pina ee eee
Agallia quadripunctata Prov. and A. novella Say......-.-.-.---------
EM Poasca Bp ik Sake Sie ble a cic ot oe Leek eee te - pe Boe eee

Conclusions im revard to\‘Seurly-leat, 2 sy ena ee i tee Rie aided ee
The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania Cram.).

F. H. Chittenden and H. M. Russell. -

Antroductionnc. Heaco seed eee oie ast eee ee rene oe oe ee ee eee
DGB Gra iWe dey Sah Sn ait led ete tag reece ieee a ee wks Lele ase
-Ongin and distribution. 35-2. Foose. ose is. oo eee alee a eee
Entersture and histony 2. 2 nyosoe pact oh aac te ee eee ee oe ee
Recent injuries and biologic notes....-..-..--.--- jist eee ee eae
Warlyorecondgiic . Bed Geiss as Says ob AOE Sateen Ne ie a ar Eke econ ee
Life-cycle periods and generations................--.-..+-- BEM ers:
Natural.ememies’ i. 4 2.).< seen Saeceeecee eaeeee yo eee eee eee

Résumé of experiments and.conclusions. (o1--. 22 Soyo. nee oo eee
oy ULcaWO0Y Dent Aer Seon a Ae eR Ean RSE I ts hod 5 ol:
Bibliographical list... 25 2.5. sees hes Sek eee ec eee ee ere eee
The hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)......-....- F’. H. Chittenden. -
Introductorys: £255. 0.0.0 oe seen ee eee Hee ann ean opt seek ofS ele tap eee aie
Descriptive: ic cee bel ews ae SU ee ee OU a eae
Distribution. ee oe Wes Fateh eo sw eleeie ele clale teeigte gee eee ee
Recéntiinjuries: 2 cgs22 . elclosccee obo eee Sen ee Cee a ee eRe ee
Methods of attack, food habits, and generations.............-....-------

Toca conditions and naturaluntluences:.ce-2 cannes eet eee eee eee
Methods: of controlen cose oe eck Cine tek ee se ae ne ee he ee ;

AraenT@alls 53 he ec ie rte ND Lee SNe LEC cde ToL Uy A
Contact.epralysei' sah a3 jee 1 ig al es id ght abd oie Sires apateats kk LA AE eh Spe
Bordeauxtm ix Gure se sce ee leas ae eae ee ee Cee en

Miteravure see see ae wah he eu Adee Se ES a re i a nS ee vg Re
Biblidgraphiy. (2 2s Stee ee a Se eae ade a

Summary joe io Se Se RR ee Fak ee
‘Miscellaneous notes on truck crop insects.....-.----- ..F'. H. Chittenden. -
Successful use of arsenate of lead Seance ihe See beetle. DR aren eroRee
A note on the asparagus miner so. eo a ey es ea ete eee

Notes on AMS Cris) wih ug ear TO aie ta ai AU gd x bah aS
Index

; ILEUSTRA TIONS:

PLATES.

Puate I. Leafhoppers (utettic spp.) and their work. Fig. 1.—Eutettix

Fig.

UI

Lit.

IV.

Vi,
NEN

Vil

tenella: a, Adult; b, nymph; c, wing; d, e, genitalia; /, eggs
(greatly enlarged); g, section of beet stem, showing fresh eggs in
place; h, same, showing eggs ready to hatch; 7, old egg scars on beet
stems; j, small leaf of sugar beet, showing characteristic ‘‘curly-
leaf” condition; /, enlarged section of back of an extreme case of
“‘curly-leaf,’’ showing ‘‘warty” condition of veins. Fig. 2.—u-
tettix strobi: a, Work of nymphs on lamb’s-quarters; 6, work of
nymphs on sugar beet. Fig. 3.—E£utettix scitula: Adult. Fig. 4.—
Eutettix clarivida: a, Wing; b, head and pronotum; c¢, d, genitalia.
Fig. 5.—Lutettix nigridorsum: Work of nymphs on leaf of Helian-
thus. Fig. 6.—Futettix straminea: Work of nymphs on leaf of
another Helianthus. Fig.7.—Eutettizinsana: Wing. Fig. 8.—Eu-
RA ATERASD hf CELTS ok 18 AG 77S C1 C1: ee SE SNR
Work of Eutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—Three ‘‘curly-leaf”
beets, the result of attack by Eutettiz tenella, and one normal beet
from the same field, showing difference in size. Figs. 2, 3.—
‘“‘Curly-leaf” beets as seen in the field. Fig. 4.—Normal beets
Preeneceit CRMs 8 So eae atin ale eiels oe aia see emisawte ee
Work of Eutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—A large beet becom-
ing “‘curly.”’ Fig. 2.—Back of a leaf affected by ‘‘curly-leaf,’’
showing ‘‘warty” condition and curled edges. ............---.--
Work of Lutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—A field of beets de-
stroyed by ‘‘curly-leaf.’’ Figs. 2, 3.—Cages used in the life-his-
Roby ee PeraiOniisate ns cone eo odes i uns ok dake Renee
Spraying apparatus used in hopyards in British Columbia. ...-.-.--..-
View of hopyard, showing sheep keeping down weeds.......----..-
Method of capturing hop flea-beetles on tarred horse-sledges. . . .-----

TEXT FIGURES.

1. The asparagus miner (Agromyza simpler): Fly........-..-.-----------
2.) The asparagus miner? Larva, pupa, work... 2.021.022.2220 ---2 nee
3. The water-cress sowbug ( Mancasellus brachyurus)......-....---+--+----
4. Cross section of cress pond, showing arrangement for avoiding damage

Dy WituclI-CLebe sO W DURE aaa meen oe ee ee foc sh cc's « aaccle woe we

5. The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phedon xruginosa): Larva, pupa, adult... .
6, The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria): Moth, larva, and pupa. -
7. The striped garden caterpillar (Mamestra legitima): Moth, larva, and

PRP hae cae Men ait OS id on See eR a ae A wl a alc aie

8. The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): Moth, egg, egg-mass,

TSR tal ae ON ee a a en gee Se ey ne en SR a

Page:

34

44

44

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

. The semitropical army worm: Work of larvee on ‘‘careless weed” in

potato fields 2.0 2 Soest aie SR ee oe ee ene

. The semitropical army worm: Field of late Irish potatoes, showing

vines\entirelysiripped, by larversc..0 2 os 22G eso ee aac oe eects

. The semitropical army worm: Larve eating bark of ‘‘careless weed;’’

also nymph of spined soldier-bug (Podisus maculiventris), predaceous
on. larvee of Prodenia ‘enidanians Wore be poke seercine eee en eee

. Hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punciulata): Larva and adult...----....--
. View of hopyard, showing how flea-beetles keep down vines ......-.--
. Hop leaves, showing work of flea-beetle..........-...--------+--0-2:
. Work‘of flea-beetleatter vines.are'prown. 2 siisiic peek eee eeeee
. Trained hop shoots stripped by flea-beetle...........-....---------:-
. Breeding and control cage in place over a hill .............---.-------
. A crew)spraying hops in, British Columbia. -\-..2 2) 25.2) cee ee
.. Tarred catchers for hop fea-beetles:..:...):.5- 3.42 <-5.ce 22 ncaa ae

ERRATA.

Page 2, line 19, for 1861 read 1869.

Page 2, footnote 4, for 160 read 46.

Page 18, line 11, for 1893 read 1903.

Page 18, line 22, for letter read latter.

Page 65, line 15 from bottom, for fresh air-slaked read freshly slaked.
Page 68, line 8, for 6 read 50.

Page.

an

INDEX.
Page.
Actinotia derupta, bibliographic reference.............-...-.---------+--+-+- 70
magallia bigelowie on’ sea-blite (Dondia)...2.....-..2.--.-.2.-2.-2-seecseeccces OO-DI
BUPaY DOCU eae ssa te ae ie tte oem is Sin ct, ra eae ates 50-51
Duh deTe (TRE AUPE be 012 HORM aa NO OMNES een Re Se RA ea Re See 50-51
ROTEL, SUpAI DCCL WRADes 52 See ee ln Se ae tee tee we oaks one 51
quadripunctais on sugar beet; habifs:--.-----...2....-- 22 ecegessceceen 51
sanguinolenta on sugar heet.-.-.......-.----------- a) AN tet 50-51
SELEPIACI RUD AID CR Gs ck oad comehc ser nce ain as Seca twida se. wwisine Nocesce 50-51
DMN RMPTIEY CEU SRI Maes cee a a Sele aia, ie wcie ainlsinte Am Seale wnialee shwle x now ocle kes 1-5
| SGV ae at 33 1a ek Sa ee ee Pe 2-3
(DIES EFC] ae ek SO RR AB Se ot a ee tee i ae Sea 1-2
CITE cy fe ah CS So en A) RC 2
LEST PATS LTO Ce =| ape Mie eee AD gs Ae ee ele Sere: Ped 2-3
SIRES PECOIG hs cake Me me ene tect ie a ce ema Rese 3-4
on asparagus in California, Massachusetts, and Virginia.....- 94
TORIGOMMINC ABOTEN t hsa gett sate ohn, f aie aha San «2 mateyeraye = Ss ee oy 4-5
wliygus sp., of Bruner, probably: Mutetitr strobt-...... 2.222... -- cn. ee nce snes 49
Amaranth, spiny, food plant of Prodenia eridania............-.----.- 53, 58-60, 62, 69
Amaranthus spinosus. (See Amaranth, spiny.)

grxcians, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata............-...---.- 77
retroflexus, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata...........-..-.---- 77
Apateticus (Eupodisus) mucronatus, enemy of Prodenia eridania...........---- 64
apRLTed SD., Parasite OL Pegomy a. DIANUPONPIS. - 2 one cee coo Se won iw dace oom 96
Aphiochxta nigriceps eating pupee of Prodenia eridania..........----------+---- 63
EURIe O0G Paty OL CLEOrd PONEDUNATUL 2.5 ona Lion's aix'w 3 aie nmees wenn awe nae 24, 25
OMINSSCAS ees eet Matera cine piendn eee ape ee 5 ae 51

Army worm, semitropical. (See Prodenia eridania.)
Arsenate of lead against common asparagus beetle.............-......---- 8-9, 93-94
Cian PErhyeSPallw OLU0 sesso Senna | aca lSeis cle nine was ote 26-27
Ged COIN sos ehy ics ain calie sine’nn < oebt 83-85, 87, 92
ROINUFOPICAUATINY WOM sen on nse care wc<o = een nets = oh a ah 65-69
BLN PemPArden Caterpillar: occ scsc. +3.) cecisc oss Scie 32
and Bordeaux mixture against hop flea-beetle..............--. 83-84
striped garden caterpillar. .... 32
resin-fishoil soap against hop flea-beetle.................. 83-84
soap against common asparagus beetle ...........-. 8-9
Arsenite of copper, adhesive, against semitropical army worm..............-- 65-69
c EAN 1 ese, aR lS 69
lime with soda against hop flea-beetle....................-.-..--- 83, 85

Asclepias incarnata. (See Milkweed.)
Asparagus beetle, common. (See Crioceris asparagi.)
twelve spotted. (See Crioceris 12-punctata.)
beetles, notes on distribution and destructive occurrences.......... 6-10

99

100 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page.
Asparagus; food plant of Agromyza simplers. ts. 22k a2 Se ee ee LS
Cleora pamipinanta . ieee oe eee eae ee ee 21, 25
Criocerisias paragis = a2 Nos Le ee ene eee 6-8
2 PUTLCLAhG spa raheieie aie oferta tek ie teres ers en eRe aera 9
Mamiestra legumes nays e ee a Os Se eee Ee 28-32
miner. (See Agromyza simplex.)
Atriplex confertifolia, food plant of Luteltix clorivida................---2.---- 50
ASOT EE IOR LS AMES ae LES eee 50
pauperculatan 202. Nee ule ek ne see 50
CT (HAL apes nage par yen ye! ney 1 2 35
food plantslol Mwtetiin albeda Pye ie sey a eva 50
Ball, E. D., paper, The Leafhoppers of the Sugar Beet and their Relation to
the “iCurly-leaf Condition ega soy eee Gree ee hy AO Ai Nee at cee 33-52
Beet,‘food plant of Putcttix seminudas. 2245-082 Nd te ee eae 50
UTOGENIONCFIAAITEL ES LPs in i aia MUN tea ee GE
Psyltiodes pumnetarlatas oo = oi) aia oe ene ay ay it
leafhopper. (See Lutettix tenella.)
sugar, “‘curly-leaf” condition with relation to Eutettix tenella.......- 33-48, 52
leafiopperg.1-:).. 29:22 eas 33-52
food plant of Agallia bigelovix...........----- jeje stele devai See eee 50-51
CUETO. Hs 5 eee Ma cee ne Eo ee aero 50-51
NOVEUA 5552 cb. SSR E Pi ee Dee Oe eee ol
QUAGMIPURCIOLA A 25. hor se ee ween 51
SOMGUMIOLCIUEC Eat ys sae eee ape Ute pee 50-51
DPIULOP ES foe See hore les 2 eer ed ota eA 50-51
BSI OAS Cale Sey Ss citene ot aes oe UE A De ane 51-52
Bhitettis clarividar: on Mies 1) eee a 50
SCULUUL Grace SD cote ie eer Rees 44-45, 49-50
SEPODUS Vase eis machete are ator ae yep ereh aa ra 44-45, 49
HA (NAL Ts TaD tars ey GES Ortyye Bah ie Bese ge AR CS ie 35
IP Syllodes, DUC UNAG nace ri Re ee 71, 74—77,,92
Blackberry, food plantiol Cleora pampinarig. 2%. 62 conc) Se keith eae aes 24, 25
Mamestraitequivimas era Ne eae eae ss )s Sci ae eeeee 30, 32
“Blackjack.” (See Phedon betulx.)
‘ablight? of sugar beet, characteristics. 822 c\. oo. 4 ieee eee oe eee 44-46
relation) to leathoppersin 2 0). (28 oc et ee eae ee 33-52
or ‘‘curly-leaf” of sugar beet around Spreckels, Cal., not work of
Butetthia tenella o: shore = ae eae eee oe ie da sl coe Oe 46
‘“‘Blue beetle.”’? (See Phedon armoracizx.)
Boards, tarred, against hop flea-beetle: 2246-2 besediand Sees seas eee 83, 88-89
Boarmv collecta—Cleora: nam pinaniduss orien aoe teee th aeeeee ee nce eee eee 22
fraudulentaria—Cleora. pam pingria. 42 2 oee a eee ee eee 22
Jrugallaria, bibliographic) reference = :\32,. 524.2229 ee se ee 27
== ClEORA; POM PINOT | Bin aiehs ssc Rae iia) ane aa re 22
pampinaria,. bibliographic reference.) yo). cin i: ewes curt ee eae es cane 27
== LCORG: DOT DUT CIE) Srskeu es (Aes) NE ey eye nee Ea 24
sublunariu; bibliographic reference.) {cise yee te sine ce ele 27
== CLEOTE DAUD UAGTIG N=) salen tet ao aye eRe operated 22
Bordeaux mixture, deterrent against hop flea-beetle................--.------ 87, 92
with arsenate of lead against hop flea-beetle..........-.-- 83-84
striped garden caterpillar. ... 32
Paris green against hop flea-beetle............------- 83-85

Bursa bursa-pastoris, food plant of Psylliodes convextor.........-----.---.---+-- 81

INDEX. 101

Page.

Sapoage, food plant of Mamesira legitima - . 2... - cijpuvan cence cometh ese eee cane 30, 32

TEGO TNGNTLONE Ce ulead Ml Seley Bitte 6 filo = bia 9 18

PT OGCTVUL CVI As Sho ike Oe es bis digo ov oe eo 61

. ONNUROOG es type ists ta eee oe ee eo aos 30

Pest Odes PUnChUGidean aster te ee el a aaee ee 77

Callitricha verna, food plant of Phedon armoracix..........-.---.---2++++-+--- 19

faiesama sayt, enemy of Prodenia eridanta .\. cain «ojsatn ond sptieite aise ~ slnn eee 64

Cardamine amara, food plant of Phxdon armoracixz........-.......-..------- 19
““Careless weed.” (See Amaranth, spiny.)

Carp, suggested use against water-cress sowbug..........--....---------1-+-- 15

Berraie iano, plant Of Prodenia eridania .— 2.2 vcs ales sos oeed ms Gata eee ie 61

Castor-oil plant, food plant of Prodenia eridania............-.-.---2+-+2---+- 60

Catfish of no avail against water-cress leaf-beetle....:..........-....-.------ 20

suggested use against water-cress sowbug. ...........-1-----.2------- 15

““Chalcidian” parasite of Psylliodes punctulata recorded by Fitch... ......-... 82-83

Chelonus sp., parasite of Prodenia eridania......-- er) ey hee eae ee Se SO ere 63

Chenopodium album, food plant of Eutettix strobi........----.-- Langs ae ene 49

Psy Odes: PUNCIUNOLG. <2 sas G seit aan 2 nse 76

food plant of Eutettiz scitula................-..----.----.- 44-45, 49-50

iho | ye ae een a eS eee ee ee 44-45

PS AOUCS PUNCH. iio aie eae # eleie Palicess wos og ra

rurale, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata..................---.- 76

Chittenden, F. H., and Russell, H. M., paper, ‘‘The Semitropical Army Worm
(Prodenia eridania Cram.)’’... 53-70
paper, ‘‘ Miscellaneous Notes on Truck-crop Insects”... . . . 93-97
“Notes on the Asparagus Beetles” ..............- 6-10
‘‘The Asparagus Miner (Agromyza simplex Loew)’’.. 1-5
‘The Cranberry Spanworm (Cleora pampinaria
GUIS esata ye) evs wi 5 stewtciae o's cients cee eee 21-27
‘“The Hop Flea-beetle(Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)’’ 71-92
‘The Striped Garden Caterpillar (Mamestra legitima

RODE cts nam roher sowie id ot iclags orale ws aan eis 28-32
‘The Water-cress Leaf-Beetle (Phedon sxruginosa
SBN) oe this aca) oe cial oye ee Syne anette ha 16-20
‘The Water-cress Sowbug (Mancasellus brachyurus

EEBY POR) os tea als See aon aelepis vlad ba ieee aie 11-15

Chlorid of lime, suggested remedy against water-cress sow bug eT ee ee 14
Chortophila planipalpis=Pegomya planipalpis.............+++++--++++++-0--- 96
Clean cultivation against hop flea-beetle...............-.-...--2--+-22005- 89-91, 92
Men ER TUTTE UL ILILT EEE wera ere rite ad Sea to oka Nhs fend. Saya. da ew ain nied mado Re ee 21-27
PRL ANS cee Alias di rl melas Gitial a bias iniwt oie ohocic dja SE aoa 27

Drelo mie Litera h ines = ces 221s 66 Sic a'en oem eens sae seme G See 24

RL CRIUN VG rane Otte ai te Wiaiyiaai trai cina’es ats bowietak aetna 21-23

Po isinal yh init) 1 Cpe ieey Ses oe TPES ae ens a ee oe 23-24

TOOG DINNES gases yO eee sues oh asso Foss ek wha 4 Sy na ee eee

AETV Ae CAGU NIU a | raid fA raise sil 4s nen - haan OO ee 22

PICT ENISREM itcre a eer en Ahr shel are Yat cada wy syn) esse ae 26

TNGUD | CRERBD RNS a2 tami ow oily ache ie Shais ote Win Gd le Ce 21-22

FB GUNA GNM aL. Acie ec sos a <apalm 5 avandia othe be aie 26

PUPS, COSETI PIG aa nt eins) vied winds oe Baledie ss Andes pee 23

POMCUNEH st eerie ite cade Auras Base Sia cH Hein aioe a cee 26-27

synonyms. . SE TAOS IRS Seon p reir eae a5 LSM 22

un published office notes Sis aid peptone weed whch east te Nee Bete. 25

102 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page
Cleora, tinctaria=Cleora pampinaria....--- ad See UPR US COP renee te Se ence eee 22
Clover, red, food plant of Cleora pampinaria.........--.-+ Sh BS Sr panes = 25
Psyliiodes punctulatgyse yee ete tee eee eee 77, 79
white, ‘food. plantiof Psylliodes pumnctulatay es. 2 =. co tcl cee eee acl 77,79
Cochlearia armoracia, food plant of Phaedon armoraci#.....-.-.-.-----+--------- 19
Collards, food plant of Mamesiraiteguiima. 2.) ote hen, Lae eee eee oe eae 30, 32
Prodeniaenidantar we Leek Be ee ae eee 53, 69
OFTEN OG AUT ae ne ee eee 30
Cotton cutworm. (See Prodenia ornithogalli.)
food plantio£ Cleora pam pinariasey. SY ee 2, Le eee 24-26
Cowpeas;, food ‘plant of Prodenia eridania.)...-).920 eee oe ee eee eee 53, 60, 69
Cranberry, food: plant iot Cleora pampinarial)- 22a. ts eee see: eee 21, 24, 25
spanworm. (See Cleora pampinaria.)
Cress, ‘food: plant: of -Phedon armoraciwse.. 2 sols ee ee eee eee 18
water. (See Water cress.)

CRIOCENTS ASDONGQU=s82 hes oen eR oe ee EAE eee By ee SAE SEs Eos 6-9
e controlswithvarsenateron leadeese se ae see eee en 93-94
TEMEGT Es LET ie WA TEE Oe NA So 8-9
P22 DUNCLALG wes tae Sane OPS AE ISS Stee ee oe He ere eee ae ee eee 9-10
larva; youn: description: s-2-2< «esa. oeeeee eee eee 10
Crucifers, preferred food plants-of Psylliodes...1.. 2.2.2.2... - ese cee 81
Gueumber, food plant of Psyliodes punctulata 222222222) - eee eee id
Gultural ‘methods agamstbeet leathoppers-c22f2s.2J245-- oe reese cee eee ee 48
hoprilearheetle since a2 hascies seca tere ee: eee 87-91

‘*Ourly-leaf” of sugar beet around Spreckels, Cal., not work of Hutettix ten-
FL ate the Lee Ne IC EL. 46, 51-52
characteristioss oy fy /eine miles a ohne sey ane ae eae 44-46
conchastonshin s..2 Yo Seco 1 eee eae 52
relations to Mutettic teriellaes sau 45s ae aan 33-48, 52

leatopperse (ay Niue Ly. voli ae Oe
Cutworm, cotton. (See Prodenia ornithogalli.)

Cymatophora pampinaria, bibliographic reference.............-.--.-.-------- 27
== COTO PUM DINONIGe aes aoa ae eee sae eee 22
Deromina-ternata, enemy of Polistes annulamss 22. .--2----2-4- -e sees eee eee eee 64
Dissosteira'carolina altected by iiMeus.2...255- see ese = eee ee eee 31
Dock, food: plant-of Psylizodes munctulatass 23... eae 2 es oe es ae 77,79
Dondia; food: plant of Agatiiattigelovie es 22-2 eels eee eee ol
abetinn tenella srseansnees sees ok ele ee ree 35
Bucksagainst water-cress\sowbugs: 2529s. 5 520. beled Sones ee ae eee 14
suggested remedy against water-cress leaf-beetle.:.:.:.:.:.:.--.-..----- 20
Dyar, H. G., technical description of the egg and larval stages of Prodenia
CNOA SU 2 ee Uk Se he he Dae alee aie Be aisle IN se NS ere ee ee 55-57
Eeoplant, ‘food: plant:of Prodenia‘eridaniase-2ee ens eae ee ee eee 53, 62, 69
Empoasca, association with so-called ‘‘curly-leaf” of sugar beet at Spreckels,
(OF) BE ae mea AMAR TA Se COLE De neh ay RL! yy We dy: 46, 51-52
on’'sugar beet, habits, remedy <1 sya e Ue ee ee 51-52
Empusa sp., fungous enemy of Prodenia eridania ..........--...------------ 65
Enarmonia nigricana, injurious occurrence in United States.................-- 95
Entomophthora sphxrosperma, fungous enemy of Phaxdon xruginosa......-.----- 96
Bpitrix,. host of Perilitus schwarz (CF) io. 5 5a) Me ee! eee ee 82
Estigmene (Leucarctia) acrea affected by hones ea Snia WehaE RECAIIVES AAREASEY B 31
Butetiz-albida on Atriplextti es 26 ooo eee ee ees ee ee ere an 50

clarivida on sugar beet, appearance and habits...............:......- 50

INDEX. 103

Page.
meatier ineand OD AtWiIples. <- <5 02s ce-nnscen ont ocawe Pe fee oe 50
nigridorsum on Helianthus, discoloration and. distortion of leaves re-
RUNG ct nade vate cad mummiasirds Ch s Sand andes as 44-45
PARUEDEN CU UID WEA MULL PGK. Ya'a's axial wo tab atatestya metals He wits datas «0 50
scitula on Chenopodium and sugar beet, discoloration and distortion of
Tes wen Feat] Gmpe 2 2.5: Scr casicietaeie eeciniciaain eens ana are ss 44-46
sugar beet, appearance and habits. .......5.2....-0<-0200- 49-50
seminuda on beet, appearance and habits.................-..--+-.--- 50
straminea on Helianthus, discoloration and distortion of leaves result-
Eee ae ea ta fs ce ow glenn Speen oatcin wc ee sleek Ae eee 44-45
airacta, biblionra phic TEleTeNCE: 2. 62. enn abiew,as eee dance scceeatans cq 48
near relative of, Putetic tenella... 2.2 ..05 2025 oss accs een anes 50
SETOUL NA DITA Se Meee ere Ant ath ete se Peay RS ree bya crene 44-46
on Chenopodium and sugar beet, discoloration and distortion of
lever TESUITIn pe oo ree ee anise Sok enalep ssn k ao Fes 44-45
sugar beet, appearance and habits......................---- 49
PPT BONE WOR ORUD MONI e:c/re,2 orn ois Soc wa ele ies Snel ak semacss ae. 35
VERSO HIM Colpo ota ee aay. ee retire has ora Sates icistatl Gave wre 36-37, 38-40
Maroni and in the Cache Valley, Utah .................... 38
PMonroe se Ui talives same peseect ci Ieee ne ore ee ores Searels aS - 38
Diplo TApiiC TEICrORCES 5 sac se esenscoe ssc cscs seca secce sec 48
cape experiments; Lehi, Utahiceiccecec cece esa ce se ceeeses- 30-40
PGi MINE See etre carries Ao ik aera aialts Se onsen ada s ange! 35
CUISERTDUbLOM eee serie aye ec ree encte enemas See ais SRE epee 36
Clojave(cizel Coty ct 6 iio) 0)- ey ye iyle Gee a eC ere etre Or a ea 41-47
BUIMIM ALY: oretors se iejepororela GS iciaic tee emicla cle asidterg sieiajsiers aretha 47-48
SUPE POesCTINELONG. ccet inne louabhien iets cee sastae 6 ian Woe eee 35
FOC EM, yest erie oe tciyata aistae eras Cut he oe Sin be tee ueae wen 35
m Orevon,, Idaho,and Califomiac.02 2 cous Jodo caves cee ass 46-47
life-hiptoryestuGiesa-tee: aaeeccaas- a5 kee oe ee Syne tito. 36-40
SUMMA DY seo aie pc ce cishaic ote cis ets apeew aris berets eine Sek 40
DVI Pus, GesCripWMONs ssoe aa sete acres mins oe sieges eioeinis bar tee 35
relation to ‘‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar beet...........- 33-48, 52
FAMEHICss PIOPOBCU spe ssa oo seh ehiows uobs bebe ane ues a eee 47-48
Exorista boarmix, parasite of Cleora pampinaria.......--.....+-+++++-+-+++----- 26
Berahzers acuitiet NOP fea-DECHOL {ccc enasannscnmtenseus Greebesscdnueaness 88
MEA BODINE WALCE-CIOOS NOW UU. oi. ooo is a neha sma cokaettwat eee cone nmee dor 14-15
suggested remedy against water-cress leaf-beetle..............-----... 20
Flea-beetle, hop. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
European. (See Psylliodes attenuata, }
potato, European. (See Psylliodes affinis.)
punctulated. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
rhubarb. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
small-punctured. (See Psylliodes punctulata. )
“*Flea,’’ name for Psylliodes punctulata in the West.......---...------.--. 71
Fundulus diaphanus, F. dispar, and F. notatus, suggested use against water-
PECPECNE DMM 5 42a o Me eine c= eel chtociaiditdl a as ou ciewwd o'ee ale kee tebwcuesies 15
Panpous disease Of Prodenta CNAGMA. oo cicws kai oc ace ces cenececccows aac Je 65
disesses Of Mamieatraleystres. caused pole cn casa baenn ance baeleeisle 0 1
enemy of Phxdon xruginosa....-.-..-..- Sees oes ae ee eee 96
Garden caterpillar, striped. (See Mamestra antic: ~
Geranium, food plant of Cleora pampinaria.......-...00...2-,-eeereceeeeeeee--- 24, 25

Goldenrod, food plant of Mamestra legitima......................--...------. 30,32

104 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

: Page,
Grass; food plant of Mamesina legiimoas sc. ot i2 2 i ie Pee Se ee ee da
Greasewood. (Sce Sarcobatus.)
Guava,food plant;of Cleora pampinarias : 22-02 52525220 oe asec eer ene es mie 25
Haltica punciulata, bibliographic reference .|.7.22222 200 See eee 91
Helianthus, food plant of Hutettix niyridorsum........-----+---------++---+++- 44-45
SEL OIIVUTLEC IN Saas Sete I le mre ctr Sheleg eee a pean 44-45
Hickory; food plantiof Cleora pamipinariae fos. set bee sees ewalene = women eines 25
Honey locust, food plant, of 'Cieora pamprnantia: 20) os fot: BUS oe eee eae 25

Hop flea-beetle. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)

European. (See Psylliodes attenuata.)

‘“‘Hop-flea,’’ name for Psylliodes punctulata in the West-.......--.----------- 71
‘““Hopper-dozer.”’ (See Tar pan.)

“‘Hopperettes.’’ (Sce Tarred catchers.)

Hop plant, food plant’ of Psylhodes punctulatar x ss ee ee aa. eee cine enema 71-92
Horseradish, food plant of Phadoniarmoracie::s225)-2-2 05-20 ees eee 19
‘Sl chneumon,’” parasite of) Prodenia ‘erdantae 2 20-0196 a tee eieiaseee 58, 64
irrication against beetileafhopper = isis si. saa ieee ane nace cea oe eae aeeeirets j 48
hop flea-beetle {14.32 222s se cee o5 2d bea a eee 88
as affecting ‘‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar bect..............---.-- 41-43
Kerosene emulsion against beet leafhopper..........-.....:.---+--+------ 43, 47-48
. Himpoascaron potatoes: - 2. ego Le ore aise tere 52
hop: Heaheetler a2 Ps ee See ee ee 85-87, 92

Killifishes, fresh water. (See Fundulus diaphanus, F. dispar, and F. notatus.)
Kohlrabi, food plant of Phadon armoraciz......--.-.-..----------- Rh eS 18

Lamb’s-quarters. (See Chencepodium. )
Leaf-beetle, water-cress. (See Phedon xruginosa.)
Leafhopper, beet. (See Eutettix tenella.)

Leafhoppers and their relation to ‘‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar beet... .-...-- 33-52

Leucania nigrofascia, bibliographic reference.......:2-.2-2..-.2+2-225--.222-6- 70

Lime, air-slaked, with Paris green, against hop flea-beetle.........-..-..----- 83

remedy against water-cress sowbug, burns cress.......---------------+--- 97

Limnerium sp., parasite of Prodenia eridania.......-------- EEN BR RTE SY aa Sr 63
Locust, Carolina. (See Dissosteira carolina.)

Maistre leGuyiwnd: sows ses) SINS Used aas ew ataha sperntsvelne a oie etal teeta © ieferatete tat 28-32

biologie! Motes). Aes Ie ya arc lee Pearce 29-31

eontrel methods: s io veces ask sce tee ds See ecto a aerate 32

eseriptlve cess 20s Nees sce sealer Seema i es SS Se 28-29

habits, summary Jie i252 SIP PSe SUC Se Salata retorts 32

larva, description. )-b2vSsu SUE eee a eee ie Oe ee 28-29

moth, desorption: S.Se2 ee eer AE SG cia eee oiate ators 28

natural enemies! a2 2S es eee BRERA passes A a 31

pupa, descrip itomstar yeas eee ts ARSE RMN oes: 29

Mancasellus brachyurus.- 25225. s-ceese eee eee ee MN Dara ete a pA Os 11-15

controlimethod sees sare eee eevee 12-15, 97

descriptive oie see eas AS SR heres Bere estate 11-12

injumes sird ‘remedids..!) 22.22 SEs 2 2 See eee 97

injurious occurrences......------- he) gE RV Sa og a rae 12

Mangel, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata.......-...-+-+-+--++-+++-+-2-2+- 79

Mechanical methods against hop flea-beetle...........----.------------+-+++- 87-89

Meteorus sp., host of Spilochalcis spp.....--.----- 2.222220 0-8- eset ee teee 63

parasite of Prodenta eridania........0..-.-0-+---0-0- 22+ - eee e eee 63

- Milkweed, food plant of Mamestra legitima........-..----+-- +. +20- +2222 ee eee 30, 32

INDEX. 105

, Page.
Mustard beetle. (See Phxedon armoracix and P. betulwx.)
common black, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata.........-.-.-- 74-75, 77
FOU, Plant ONE needa Grmoracia. Le Noss kes ae a eles ne 18
Palioder niinctulate ne. = Se Seas ie ioe we lease ae a's 77
hedge, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata........-.....-.-+-2-+--- 74-75, 77
white; food plant of Phadon betul@.-:.....6.0..20csbs sece ceca res-- 97
Nasturtium officinale. (See Water-cress.)
Metue, food plant of Psylliodes: punctulata... 2.2.80. 202 boca lk Gan lace sucess 77,79
Woctua rylina, bibliographic reference................-0-0cececscccccecccecee 27
eekra, food-plant of Prodenta éridamides. 2 decos dae nia ons vise e ciaule v sae ce eels 53, 69
Ophion tityri, parasite of Prodenia eridania.............0.2sccececccccececeee- 63
range; toodplant of Cleora:pampinaria..-2 fs ..ccecck. oslo beens oa ae ueebe aces 25
Paris green against common asparagus beetle................20220eeceeeeeeee 8
Cranberry Span worms..225.<)42 st sb i cloacae cin gs soe slas oe be 26-27
MUP MGA-WPChO.ta.<ccso gars et ee toe Hehe US thaweone = 83-85, 87, 92
BORNALEO PICA ARMY WOlM a. - 117-2 % stiw cud titeiwie nel eee sale ae 65-69
BEFIDOG PALA CALCKPUMARS 5 20. vizjscs'os enact wn s-acleeeteeee ed 32
and Bordeaux mixture against hop flea-beetle..................-.- 83-85
flour against water-cress leaf-beetle..............-..--.------- 19
plaster or air-slaked lime against water-cress leaf-beetle......-- 19
water against water-cress.leaf-beetle.................--...----- 19
dry, with air-slaked lime, against hop flea-beetle.............--.--- 84-85
Pea moth. (See Enarmonia nigricana.)
Prcar font plant Of Cleora-pampinaria.....5502dees ste Coes UeeS sh bles ee woes 24, 25
mess, food plant of Bmarmonta nigricand...0.0.0 0. ..0e. 2 Sel ete cee stcweesece 95
IM CN OSERAMLEGUELITUG Sy See errs eirclo aces ovat d Widicts bial eet ois cielorene 28, 30, 32
PP FOUETUG OFIROGQIL Us wronorcirn Seals 2 SB ale ox a eS Sales wiwlarese 30
EGU NMHIDLEM EDN PT GLA YAC ISIS salts ctly cate on voce ccs Wresis Wes deta futdeclee wt 95-96
@epper, food plant of Prodenia eridania.......c.ccccecch see w ae cencleccnseeceee 53, 69
Perdiuius schwar2ii (7), parasite of Bpitrix...........0.2.00bee ces ce eeeceecees 82
Be Tilicitrctar chat nek Ae eer A ete ton 82
Peyilodes pimetlamace sole tet Geo ie ac ct ale 82
EM ERET AOR TORS «<5 21) tea bs aw dee = su Ba eelg euare Oe Se ei ae ace ay 16-20
Peete OsCHDUOI:. cpascc:. Joe seme eens ee MeoLe seeeie oak 16-17
control method ses 3S .44 22.0 g Jais omc Veep eat cep tees 19-20
CESGhiPUIVGs us Cicih ase ak Ie ec ees wresihe ee ae ee peieiwale 16-18
PLC TIER «Seo, 5 2's inate melt Mew ea tara ss eee aeee heme 17
TUE RUUSSLOMING 45. San todas oss os CCR loteniw totinn hte Sea aee ae 96
Ba Datel hore Urs Las aitg alec Ces oe eek. ots Cae eee 18-19
lie (ih CUB OCCUITONCO: 6'o Jets. abou ceeSet cst ateetewen 16
Seva UCOCKIPMOMc i siue » scus swScds bed sne esc ck tetas eee 17
DUMPEAUES.. ease news ceohek meet Usote sie slice, kateb ae 18
Plapioderamiridia' a ByMON YON. «os </% mows aos 2s niece ceteus 18
pupa, description........ EAU Sus ois as cheers 18
TILOVOCIE A A DLGS sete mre Met hs hE oiled). | Uk Se bie penereteee 18-19
BVIIOTIV ANS to G Me see eae te ne ot elec a Jeicie kes ae be ecrats 18
BAe EY dOT GR UM ORME, Og ARR AA cane Chav sewn ce tne ateithwenn en 18-19
TEU GSI Feet ew cic nttbullin's piererera tar sie MRNA 97
cochlearizx Fab., distinct from Phxdon armoracix..............---s0--- 18
Phalxna phylolaccxy, bibliographic reference............-.-.-22+-2----ee-e-e- 70
= eT DU CET MAIL hoe epee eee ey oe SMO a oo aes ee 57

UBMessiis trroratus, mistaken determination of Futettix strobi..--. Pe ee 49

106 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page.
Phyllotreta, host of Perilitus schwarz (7) -2--2-. owes ees=e em nee ee 2 eteee ip 82
‘Phytolacca decandra. (See Pokeweed.)
‘Pigweed. (See also Amaranthus retroflexus.)
food: plant, of Psyliiodes punctulata. 232. .tes-cpeeee. + see cee eee ae 79
Plagiodera cochlearix Panz., Gyll.=Phexdon armoraci&....-...------+-+-+++-+++ 18
Viridis=PRLAON LrUGINOSAA. 23) ee ae ee eee = 2 ee ee eae 18
Podisus maculiventris, enemy of Prodenia eridania........---.-2-2-2-0202-- eee 64
Pokeweed, food plant of Prodenia eridanta............---++--+--+-+--- 53, 58, 61-62, 69
moth, name sor Prodenia eridania. .\. 2. eaa oe late eee 57
Polistes: annularis, enemy of Prodenia eridania........-----2222-2+¢-+-eesesece 64
Polypeza'sp., parasite of Pegomya planipalpis..2.- 02.0.0 0-'s = 22s =a eee nee 96
Pontiarapex, enemy of Pradenia eridania. oleae pice nes Bae ta eee meee 64
Potato flea-beetle, European. (See Psylliodes affinis.)
food: plant of Prodemaveridania:. 2. su wes ey 2 eee eee 53, 58-59, 69
F Psylliodes punctulata.....2. tot eee eee ee oe eee 77,79
“Pretty cutworm,’’ manuscript name for Mamestra legitima.....--------------- 30-31
rodent eridanit aah. oes Pada 228 See Ace eRe BO ee eee eee eee 53-70
bibliographic list. gothic cibathesee Sees ee er eee eee eee 70
Gontrol/methods: ..\5-¢h Jae sede Bee see ao eceer eee .. 65-69
deatriptivescn saes jctek os ieee aes ae ee eee ere 54-57
distribution: ..c22. skeet ee eee eee Se eae ete 57
early records 2a le eeutageelsin. Jee bie eee tee eee epee eee 62
egg, description....... Posie oahu Tava eaga ede sabe poem 54
fungolisidisesses-ays. teens; sete eee aes Set tebe see 65
penerations.2..52-22 005. to cseee mete lee Oe ee eee 62-63
history... 340562202 0 eee eene: Btneec as se eee 57
injury toitruck\erops2.¢ 22. is beeetl ee eee ee ae ee 53-70
larval stages, description...............--.- ws piirchchdid oath Sen hat 50-57
life-cycle: periods) -2 2404... stlndsskisd 4 Webi. Se: Zope els eee 62-63
lifterature..2322.\25). See oe ae ee aR Ee Ee eee 57-58
moth, .descriptionyss.2 (sys ete Pees bere ee ee 54
naturalenemiess esses sti ees oie eee See rere sree eta 63-65
OTS ad SU se ee oO eo a a ot ee 57
parasitess: 22 .see ose et sie ord afl Sela ll haves 2d, 202 ROEM ol cee eee 63
predaceous enemies... 25 2.....cSk eee seston eee 64-65
Prodenia nigrofascia Hulst a synonym.........-----.-----+-- 54
pitpa, description: 532.2 Se Se eee oe ee eee ee eee 55
SUMMA ANY 2) SSN nce ee eeclle sets lo ee aata eter alee eye mle 69
nigrofascia of Hulst=Prodenia eridania....2..>-----2bs=sis--+622=2-=== 54
ornithogalli, association with Mamestra legitima in damage to garden
CTOPS so ccls Pace Ve iS sie Gocteinitre settee le Oe etapa ee eter ae 30
phytolaccee, hisheeernnie reference we alatifc leneie seal eo nee 70
Psylliodes affinis, the European potato flea-beetle..............----+------ ele 81
attenuata, the European hop flea-beetle..............-.-.-..--.---- 81
chrysocephala on edible crucifers in Europe, habits.....--.----------- 81-82
convexior, comparison with Psylliodes punctulata.....-....-.-----+-- 73
on Bursa bursa-pastoris.. 25.2220 Pea hones eee ee teeeet > 58H
notes.ON VATIOUS Species.) Limits Semenlae seb bee e eee ein Siete feelers 81-82
PUNCTULALE oie is ok Shae BS SRE ne oe 71-92
adult, habits.22 cee ee a tee 79-80
bibliography .......... Pm nae sea hk tice ag Sen SUD 91-92
control methodasse. 4 Ub cee se Ae Sees A eee eee 83-91

deseriptivenii cote aces BSH AOL AAR OA 2 40 Na Ne 72-73

4

INDEX. > 107

Page.
Peaylliodes punctulata, development.....-........-..... 02. e eee sees a8 8]
Digit MUMON | oso oce eee ee STA Ss OR Sel il 73
ER iar nate atcha! Sais ca tears een eae chee sie Palle de ong 80
food habits ot SEE BEE yan Sa5.6 eee ee eee eee eee 76-77
RETGrHnONAe . 2.20 tere eo See ceca te a tanes hed 78
TEAM ee u's cities gre aietsicceayeee ate ork oes or gen encacarg 79-81
host, of Perihituaschwarett(2)2-2- 5.10% ues eee- se Jaaeadeeee 82
IMPUIPICS;, FOCONE 5 oe'nd 3 o2 suas Saale te elem Saad ran ee eae 73-76
fonvar wha bite nc. An. obs senha oe ee vers epee ee ee ae 80
Jitedhisboty.<5 5.05.2 Smee oes Lee reps A Sani east 79-8]
liperatnes iat os le eee ea hae atk. na ae ade 9]
local conditions asap ADUNGANCES Rr. vores eae 82
methodsior attacks cee ee ee se Keio Sepa ones 76-77
PUD aie eet esa arr ae eee a. cry ee fo his cee waren er 80-81
SULTILI Ae eee rae ee rs ee cee Mot te haha eee 92
Quayle, H.J., account of life history and habits of Psylliodes punctulata..... - - 79-81
Raaisn. food plantot Pegomya planipalpis:..<..-..-22.52.20c0 seen needncccne 95-96
Peylitodes punctulata. 5.2. = sess 2 Sie nts AN m es Nee 77
Rape, food plant of Mamesira legitima.-.-.-.-.-. See RaAE Erodes HS te ce eet = 30, 32
ROACH ULIORTUIROUMU tas | hie 7S 2 So oe bee dis melnc oa na awiew ‘30
“ Raps-erdfloh.’’ (See Psylliodes chrysocephala.)
Resin-fishoil soap with arsenate of lead against hop flea-beetle..........2..... 83-84
striped garden caterpillar... ._. 32
soap and arsenate of lead against common asparagus beetle....-........ 8-9
Mash cemineL Hopmen-peenle. <p. 5m. ess bas sees sec Se eect ef 86
Rhubarb flea-beetle. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
ieddaplantiot Psylliones punciulaias -. oc. 2. = 2.25 Sayan ate oc weet eeiew sen 71,77
Rolling, remedy against beet leafhopper. - -.---- Beteee Mere ae yee age NE 48
Oper -RECile sna cte 27 t sider Uieleeds a tc ela Ws cepa cies 87-88
Boonmageot, 2 new one from the West.....-- 2. 2.022 - sce. e enn cedtetecess -. 95-96
PeeseOOn SBE Of PE pORsCa. 06 200.52 oc ee obs re ete sare pw) dwinig.s ww ev ohn 5]

Rumex. (See Dock.)
Russell, H. M., and Chittenden, F. H., paper, “The Semitropical Army Worm

PMOL EE ONAN) fe origin a acig ncis.c ae minis cee ohn ds esate deue nes ea 53-70
Russian thistle. (See Thistle, Russian.)
Ruta-baga, food plant of Mamesira legitima.....-- Weer ok vies ada tede ates 30, 32.
ETOGETUOOTNUAOQ MILL cae eeoetE ceteine nice ae seeatic cee ae « 30
Salt-marsh caterpillar. (See Estigmene [Leucarctia] acrwa.)
Sareopatue, 1000 plant of Brdletplenela. cians cd onedndpcapepsenaesauecsveesc 35
pebeele’s preen'againat hop flea-bectle:. o.oo bea ccna c ec ncneeasmecnndcess 83-85

Schilbeodes. (See Catfish.)

Sea-blite. (See Dondia.)

Semasia nigricana= Enarmonia Nigricana....cccce.e0-ceceneccccccceccccccee-- 95
Shad scale. (See Atriplex confertifolia.)

Shepherds’ purse. (See Bursa bursa-pastoris.)

@heots, tarred, against hop flea-beetle. ... 2. bon cca cnc ccccccnccvcnsee 83, 88-89
Sense APARNA LO}) HEA-DOOMOLp raroke a aveabod ie adem sacd.s sas scwpacstecscusee 83
Solanum, wild, food plant of Prodenia eridania..............----------+----- 53, 60

Solidago spp. (See Goldenrod.)

Sowbug, water-cress. (See Mancasellus brachyurus.)

Spanworm, cranberry. (See Cleora pampinaria.)

REMC IGICLS EYL). DATSSILCS OF “MELLOTUS.. 50.50 'sc wesw nse edlecwhecvencsecaeuens 63
secondary parasites of Prodenia eridania..............-.----- 63

108 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Pron an: Page.
Sporotrichum minimum, fungous enemy of Mamestra legitima......-.--.------ . oF
Starwort, water. (See Callitricha verna.)
Stiretrus anchorago, var diana, enemy of Prodenia eridania........-.-.-------- 64
Strawberry, food plant of Cleora pampinaria........----+-----++---0+----- 21, 24, 25
Striped garden caterpillar. (See Mamestra legitima.)

Sulphate of copper, suggested remedy against water-cress sowbug...........- 14
Sweet potato, food plant of Prodenia eridania........------+-----++++--- 53, 59-62, 69
Tar pan, or tarred wings, against beet leafhopper.....-..---.------------- ae 48
Tarred catchers against hop flea-beetle...........-.- depen tale evel ayal a epetene ate ata 88-89
Thamnotettiz tenellus, bibliographic references. .......--------+-+---+++----- 48
Shistle, Russian, food plant ‘of Mutetinn tenella ia tote nea inetepaie a cine eee eet 35
®abacco extract against hop flea-beetle. ooo sce . sie eta e wine aihnisele lm oleae 86
food’ plant of Mamestra Legtrcnia « 2)apo) sae ieee lated aie acetate alee inlet 30, 32
| . powdered, against hop flea-beetle.........-. 2-2-2222 2-2 sees elena 83
Tomato, food plant of Prodentaeridantas ess. oc eee eminem ees el aaa ied 53, 58, 69
‘Trap .crops:against hop flea-beetle.........2-2-2.-s0cseee- eer cce enna ee 87, 92
plants in control of asparagus miner...........----------------e eee eee 4-5
Truck-crop insects, miscellaneous notes. ......-.----------eee cence ee ee eee eee 93-97
Tumbleweed. (See Amaranthus grxcians.)

Turnip, food plant of Mamestra legitima. .......- 2-0-2 eee nee cec eee - ene ee 30, 32
PrOGeNIG OFNITROGQUT wie ns > enonjneciee oes sedelae Silonite 30
Paylliodes mwinenilatae oo ie ans dass stsieinie pie itera ee late aie oat ere 77, 79
mined probably by Pegomya planipalpis......-..+--------2e++ee+---- 96
Veronica beccabunga, food plant of Phedon armoraci#......--------++-+0+++--- 19
Verticillium, fungous enemy of Dissosteira carolina.....-...------------+----- 31
Estigmene (Leucarctia) acrea......----------- 31
Mamestra legwimas,. s\ics'4 a5 oy aes, rin eater 31
Violet, food plant of Mamestra legitima..........-.----------2e- eee eee e eee 30, 32
Water-cress, burned by lime used as insecticide against sowbug.....-------.- 97
‘ food plant of Mancasellus brachyurus.....-----++++++-2e+--2-+--- 11-12
Phxedon) LTUuG NOs Yoni. eis s o's oleic ss alee eae alent 16
OTIMUOPACUS «eid croi aha ais e.5)s'sa sie ete ee ereieke eeelar eee 19
“SBE CES, VOTER lies Si aepel le ree RNIN USI aM aE et at ah ee 96-97

HW ai leaf-beetle. (See Phxdon xruginosa.)
method of growing to avoid damage by sowbug.......-..-------- 13-14

sowbug. (See Mancasellus brachyurus.)

Whale-oil soap against hop flea-beetle. ose.) esl es ie te erate 85-87, 92
Willow, food plant of Cleora pampmarute asso. sci 5 cae <cice-s seemeeeee eae 24, 25
Winthemia quadripustulata, parasite of Prodenia eridania........--+-2+--2++-+- 63
Xylomiges phytolaccx, bibliographic reference.......-..-+-+-+++-++eeeeeeeees 70

O

: aicuass Per c te: he ee
mi ei S DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 66.
~ L.O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

~ SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS

I. THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.

<4 By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

Il. THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.
THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

I[f. THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM.
THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

i . THE LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET AND THEIR RELATION T0 THE
i ie “ CURLY-LEAF” CONDITION.

% va By E. D. BALL, Ph. D., Special Field Agent.

oe 2 V. THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

. ; By F. H. CHITTENDEN and H. M. RUSSELL.

¥ VI. THE HOP FLEA-BEBTLE.

es By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Se. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

b VIL. MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations.
hr

_ ‘

q

“3

4 ie

ieee

Ba.

s . 224749

se
bo

Pal
» is

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFIOE.

1910.

U.S, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY— BULLETIN No. 66.
L. O. HOWARD, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

I. THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

II. THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.
THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

II. THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM.
THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

TV. THE LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET AND THEIR RELATION TO THE
“ CURLY-LEAF” CONDITION.

By E. D. BALL, Ph. D., Special Field Agent.

V. THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN and H. M. RUSSELL.

VI. THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

VII. MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D., in Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations

WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE,

LIL.

BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOG Y.

L. O. Howarp, Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
C. L. Maruatt, Assistant Entomologist and Acting Chief in Absence of Chief.
R.S. Currron, Executive Assistant.
Cuas. J. Ginuiss, Chief Clerk.

F. H. CairrenDeEn, in charge of truck crop and stored product insect investigations.
A. D. Horxriys, in charge of forest insect investigations.

W. D. Hunter, in charge of southern field crop insect investigations.

F. M. WesBsTER, in charge of cereal and forage insect investigations.

A. L. QUAINTANCE, in charge of deciduous fruit insect investigations.

E. F. Pures, in charge of bee culture.

D. M. Roacers, in charge of preventing spread of moths, field work.
Roria P. Currig, in charge of editorial work.
MaBeEL Co.corp, librarian.

TRUCK-CROP AND STORED Propuct INSEcT INVESTIGATIONS.
F. H. CuirrenpeEN, in charge.

H. M. Russeiu, C. H. Poprnoz, D. K. McMran, H. O. Marsa, E. G. Smyrtu,
Tuos. H. Jones, agents and experts.

E. D. Bat1,@ special field agent.

E. G. Titus,@ I. J. Conpir, H. S. Hever, W. B. ParKer, collaborators.

4 Resigned June 30, 1909. 6 Resigned January 31, 1910,
II

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
BuREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY,
Washington, D. C., January 25, 1910.

Srr: I have the honor to transmit herewith, for publication as
Bulletin No. 66, seven papers dealing with certain insects injurious
to truck crops. These papers, which were issued separately during
the years 1907 and 1909, are as follows: The Asparagus Miner and
Notes on the Asparagus Beetles, by F. H. Chittenden; The Water-
Cress Sowbug and the Water-Cress Leaf-Beetle, by F. H. Chittenden;
The Cranberry Spanworm and the Striped Garden Caterpillar, by
F. H. Chittenden; The Leafhoppers of the Sugar Beet and Their
Relation to the ‘‘Curly-Leaf” Condition, by E. D. Ball; The Semi-
tropical Army Worm, by F. H. Chittenden and H. M. Russell; The
Hop Flea-Beetle, by F. H. Chittenden; Miscellaneous Notes on
Truck-Crop Insects, by F. H. Chittenden.

Respectfully,
L. O. Howarp,
Entomologist and Chief of Bureau.
Hon. JAMES WILSON,
Secretary of Agriculture.
Ill

oy J Lan
a at

ie eee!
<7 (s

‘ ‘ ba
: S h he ae ee
“ Baan. |
* <~

PREFACE.

The present publication comprises a series of articles which have
been issued in seven parts and are now brought together as a single
bulletin. It relates to a line of investigations begun in 1896, the
earlier results of which were published in previous bulletins of the
present series, in Yearbooks of the Department, and in circulars of
the Bureau. The title, “‘Some Insects Injurious to Truck Crops,”
is used in a wide sense and includes insects injurious to sugar beet,
since the same class of insects which affect this important crop also
attack table beets and spinach.

The initial article is the first treatment that has been given to the
asparagus miner in a Government publication. The second article,
entitled ‘‘Notes on the asparagus beetles,” is a sequel to a general
article on the asparagus beetles which appeared in the Yearbook for
1896. It places on record all important new localities to date, and
furnishes similarly the latest information in regard to remedies. The
importance which has been assumed by the water-cress sowbug since
1902 has necessitated the preparation of a publication covering this
species, with suggestions for its control. The subject of water-cress
insects has never been considered in a Department publication hith-
erto, and similar treatment of the water-cress leaf-beetle to that
furnished on the sowbug follows. The cranberry spanworm is given
monographic treatment not hitherto furnished for it. It is an omniv-
orous feeder, and has attracted attention on various crops, and
especially on asparagus and strawberry. A similar article on the
striped garden caterpillar, also an omnivorous form, completes
Part IIL of the bulletin.

The article representing Part IV is a detailed consideration of the
sugar-beet leafhopper and of other affiliated species in their relation
to the “‘curly-leaf”’ condition of the sugar beet. It was prepared by
Dr. E. D. Ball while special field agent of this Bureau in Utah; he
has been engaged on this work for a number of years. The semi-
tropical army worm is the subject of Part V. It was the most trouble-
some insect on truck crops in Florida during 1907, and was given
detailed study from every possible standpoint by the authors. In the
experiments with remedies, which were conducted by the junior
author, Mr. H. M. Russell, a series of 15 trials was performed, proving
that a spray of arsenate of lead is far superior to Paris green under local

Vv

\al SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

conditions. The final article of the series, entitled ‘‘The hop flea-
beetle,” has been a subject of study for a number of years. Its
treatment is monographic to date, and, while some of the data fur-
nished are preliminary in character, it will constitute a basis for
future work on the same species. This insect is given the name of
flea-beetle because of the local name, ‘‘hop flea,” used in the hop-
growing region of the Pacific coast, but it is also a pest in sugar-beet
fields and in urious to rhubarb, radishes, and other truck crops. In
the preparation of the article the writer has been fortunate in obtain-
ing the cooperation of various experts, including, particularly,
Messrs. H. J. Quayle and Theodor Eder.

Following this article are a few miscellaneous notes on truck-crop
insects, the first two giving additional information in regard to the
principal asparagus pests treated in Part I, the last furnishing addi-
tional observations on the water-cress insects treated in Part II, with
notes on the first injurious occurrence of the destructive pea moth
and of a western root-maggot in the United States.

F. H. CoirreNvDEN.

CONTENTS

The asparagus miner (Agromyza simplex Loew)......-.-.---- F.. H. Chittenden. .
A eaten Ruel wereeere en oR tae Ren eo were x ae te eee SS eee ke wield e Size eS a
| TUCSREATH S177 ACG A i= es ee nN 8 SR te ee
EMogricalanGs Dioglopical NOtes: +02 a2... 2521 asec Gee cee aeme wee an dese
Sse MMIBUEN | (Eee era eats ee ee ey So es See ek Seger
(SEIT 20 2) Ta eet a De ee Mo
Notes on the asparagus beetles..............-.......------ F. H. Chittenden. .
The common asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi L.)...........-----------
The twelve-spotted asparagus beetle (Crioceris 12-punctata L.)........-.--
The water-cress sowbug ( Mancasellus brachyurus Harger)....F. H. Chittenden. .
[ESGIST DIT Soe 6 Seite ARS, See nd rr a
ep ersiOl May MElOus OCCULLENGE Ls 2. << soc 55 - sk fn a5 65 secede ess lmacceeene
BUCH MECC SNC CORILU Ramet eek Rete ene ne Ec ae eh eS 8 i ee

The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phedon xruginosa Sufir.).......F. H. Chittenden.

ea ese CUR CH CC re oe Rey Se eine, aan Pb ere tc eDiets ve ees
TELS Sia AT CSS a ees
Laie IATUIe See e oe eee eee Os ee
EAbits of tas anda related species... --- 22.44. 2-ca0-cccee snes cbse ceee
Wein Faye FSi cat. Cee] 0 i fa le ea SO ee ee ee

The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria Guen.)........F'. H. Chittenden. .

J ECSIETEN OTTER to de ee ae
UD ISS atl OCT ae A es Re ele i ee ee

TPIS sOOU MD LATHUSe see ese ee wIne see RMS eis Deca s ea dm ataeca hace skis
SP rommner Lan une MIBLON Ske hy ee oe lee ain ci ak Sins <a yaya hots Ss Se

EVORICUMCHEY Pies 2 Ste oct eater ee an aaminte oes ew eons atch ease tee
1 Sal DUiTQarea hy 0] 1c ek eS oe Ss Oe ee ge

The striped garden caterpillar (Mamestra legitima Grote)....F. H. Chittenden.

ADEE ULV. oa. 5 et Se cet no heer tors Ma clarc nla pte sta ato iy cae Sle ae
BIO LGpleMMOGES EE eA teres See eatin Ses soe eee cS eee os tase ates
Natural enemies: ..2 2.562522. 3% fone PR eae ise aeks ce esas
rSLONEiaT Vey 10) ipl os of rege Aan ee ee ec Re
Bilis Ua tora st OneCUTLEO Seyi aes scm rete 2rd ee SS ak ne eee

The beet leafhopper (Hutettix tenella Baker)..................---2-0-000--
ESE py hive a ee ene ee Ate. a Sa oo Sk ote See
SUG oA SAM LES eee eI y Ne Rl a Nora lye at Pp aiela' Gis Gide arcane amie
| O,ife\nel ay sire sip ee a on a ee a
| WeyhQe Sl aW ies fa). asia 0112 cee Ske SOR a ee ne eee
Lcd atavesite'an cl Cita) 11: Oe Bea ee Ch a re re I
Economic summary and proposed remedies ..............-----------
BiBMOPraAP DICH LElereNCeNs=s.s2 7 Sencu cues sal wlnv We had oud onde sew

Page.

td
Nor DODDRWNH ND KK KE

et
o> bo

a
Oo CO OO SD &

bo bo bo
Oo- —

bo bo
oT

bo
or

bo b b& bo ob tb
BDBOoOntoanmnmc

~)

b

Co GC &
LS Oe

me PR Ow ww Ww WH
On RH Oo oS oro ow &

a The seven papers constituting this bulletin were issued in separate form on March

16, April 23, and August 31, 1907, and on January 27, January 28, May 8, and July 19,

1909, respectively.

vil

VIII SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

cc

The leafhoppers of the sugar beet and their relation to the ‘‘curly-leaf” con-

dition—Continued.

Other: leafhoppers.c2 2.22 2e 2 seb eeeice aie ae ae = ee ee ee ee eee
Biteitix strobe With sosccess ce a ere Hae ae eee ee ee
Butethia scitila Ball 2 222 5. Ao Se ee eee
Prutetinc seminidanSaiveces ss see ee A ee eee ee eee
Hutettix clarivida Van Duzee.......---.----- to. Cuvee 2 8 on ee
Eutettix insana Ball, E. albida Ball, and E. pauperculata Ball. ....--.-
Eutethz: stricta Ball. v2.2 22555 fo cea. este eee ne eee
Agalha sanguinolenta “Prov. 22 22cc 4s 1 eee tne oe ee eee
Agalhavenerca Osborn and. Ballieces 22.2 hoe 2. eee ee eee eee
Agallia bigelome Baker fancsee eee ee eee Se ee ee
Agallia quadripunctata Prov. and A. novella Say..-.-..-.-------------
EMpOasea: BP ass8 sta ak sete Ree En eee

Conclusions-in- regard ‘to ““eunly=leat”’ss22---s-23-9-5cteo eeeeee eee

The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania Cram.).
F. H. Chittenden and H. M. Russell. -
Introdwetionwe:t2 acest ees se octoes Pace te ae ee ree ee ee ee
DGsCrip tives oe sha th etek Goeth ie re De
Origin ang)distribwtion ss. ose oe ee re eee
Literature and bistory.cent os octets eee ee eee
Recent myjuriesiand biologic notess.2-5-<shes-2-- 2225 eae ae ee eee
Harly records: .2.6- eek Sat ea OMEN Ree tee ee co ee
Life-cycle:periods and: generations. s-2. 522202222 Ae ne eee eee
Natural enemies... oi Gee Seek tie ae tie i ed ae
Methods of control. ...£).<2% 3. oe Sens sect ee Oe ee
Résumé of experiments and conclusions .......-.--.------ eee ces 2
SUMMARY 4.52% oe ocacse ck sek eee ee ete siete eee Cee ee
‘Bibliographical list s..222 744 =. 2s s Sees oe Se eee
The hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)......-..-- F. H. Chittenden. .
Introductory «02 1.2.2. sereees ceo. tee paee eee Oe ocean
DeSeripti Ver io:.. Fs4e0 oe cat pee eee ee ee eee
Distribution: icc... <5.6e 6 lees cee eee oP oe ee eee ee
Recent: injuries.2. .-.- : 2+ bac oat Soe cee et ae ee
Methods of attack, food habits, and generations............-....-.....----
Late history and habits: .:/gssi2:.2224-4-2e eee ee eee eee
Notes:on other species. ....3: 22.220. 2. )<keuen eee eel oe eee
Local conditions and natural infliiences...-<-- 224-.- +255. ees eee
Methods of:control.. 2. 224¢.-ce nee eee eens eae ee
Arsenicalsseiec ise sucha ee Ge ae ee ie oie ee
Contact Sprays -...¢ 2. --2040 nna een os, ae
Bordeaux mixtures soci). eben ke SeRSEEL Ce ce eee ee
Mechanical‘and cultural methods. 5.022222 2 25.2245 eee eee
Lhiterature:......:-..ses2222tden teehee Ae eee Reece ee teen ee eee ee
Bibliography... 2. <u 2. cn te ecu Pah ihateee eee ee
SQMMALy 3552552 Sc sce epee Cee ee i a
Miscellaneous notes on truck crop insects...........-------- F. H. Chittenden. .
Successful use of arsenate of lead against the asparagus beetle ....-...-..--
A mote-on. the asparagis -miner:. 30.73. oe seats ae eee ee ee
Injurious occurrence of the pea moth in the United States.............-.
A new western root-mageot i. 2.952.525 65 nee i ee
Notes ‘om water-eress imsects:.. 22 Joos. chaos oe te eo ee eee

EES: eka T DOUN:S:.

PLATES.

Pate I. Leafhoppers (Eutettix spp.) and their work. Fig. 1.—Eutettix

Fic.

tenella: a, Adult; 6, nymph; c, wing; d, e, genitalia; /, eggs
(greatly enlarged); g, section of beet stem, showing fresh eggs in
place; h, same, showing eggs ready to hatch; 7, old egg scars on beet
stems; j, small leaf of sugar beet, showing characteristic ‘‘curly-
leaf” condition; k, enlarged section of back of an extreme case of
“curly-leaf,’’ showing ‘‘warty” condition of veins. Fig. 2.—Fu-
tettix strobi: a, Work of nymphs on lamb’s-quarters; b, work of
nymphs on sugar beet. Fig. 3.—Eutettix scitula: Adult. Fig. 4.—
Eutettix clarivida: a, Wing; 6, head and pronotum; c, d, genitalia.
Fig. 5—Eutettix nigridorsum: Work of nymphs on leaf of Helian-
thus. Fig. 6.—Eutettix straminea: Work of nymphs on leaf of
another Helianthus. Fig. 7—Eutettixinsana: Wing. Fig. 8.—Eu-
(PIE SAGs Gi. ly, (ECM osos Gooncmon Sono pe cue sdae Soe eae oe

II. Work of Futettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—Three ‘‘curly-leaf”

beets, the result of attack by Futetiix tenella, and one normal beet
from the same field, showing difference in size. Figs. 2, 3.—
‘“Curly-leaf” beets as seen in the field. Fig. 4—Normal beets
TOMES CETL] Cesare arnns esa neva Mer fers a 212 pate ree, cree Aer ge

III. Work of Futettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—A large beet becom-

”?

ing ‘‘curly.
showing “‘

Fig. 2.—Back of a leaf affected by ‘‘curly-leaf,’’
warty ” condition and curled edges..............------

IV. Work of Lutettix tenella on sugar beet. Fig. 1.—A field of beets de-

stroyed by ‘‘curly-leaf.’’ Figs. 2, 3.—Cages used in the life-his-
(ORV TC MD CHUM OMe oe Stee kA ue on Ie oda? mse beatae Ewes ee

VY. Spraying apparatus used in hopyards in British Columbia... .....--

VI. View of hopyard, showing sheep keeping down weeds............--
VII. Method of capturing hop flea-beetles on tarred horse-sledges ...... . -

wn

TEXT FIGURES.

. The asparagus miner (Agromyza simplex): Fly............-...--------
> Jhe saparagus Ininer: Larva, pupa, work. [¢.... 2... 2. .-.s.s..ce<-.--
. The water-cress sowbug ( Mancasellus brachyurus)........-.----------
. Cross section of cress pond, showing arrangement for avoiding damage

Div Ler et edd) Rehm see ie he hare Ss Meio a a oe tks wiaa's « aoa

. The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phxdon xruginosa): Larva, pupa, adult... .
. The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria): Moth, larva, and pupa. -
. The striped garden caterpillar (Mamestra legitima): Moth, larva, and

. The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania): Moth, egg, egg-mass,

55)

Page.

34

44

44

46
84
88
90

bo Nw Ee

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The semitropical army worm: Work of larvee on ‘‘careless weed’’ in
potatoield = eeeee eee ae eee 1S eyoeitn nee ee ee

. The semitropical army worm: Field of late Irish potatoes, showing

VAItesheMtirel yas trp pedal iy ll aievce sees as eee

. The semitropical army worm: Larve eating bark of ‘‘careless weed;”

also nymph of spined soldier-bug (Podisus maculiventris), predaceous
onlays or Progen ia crGaniiss sameeren ee eee oe eee

. Hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata): Larva and adult. .........-.--
. View of hopyard, showing how flea-beetles keep down vines. .......--
. Hop leaves, showing workof fleasbeetle + —-2... 29425. S322 s4-- eee
. Work of flea-beetle after vines are grown . .......-....-------------+-
7 Trained hop shootastripped by flea-beetles>. 2-2. -22-5..---- )-- eee
. Breeding and control cage in-place over a hill’ |...) == 23252 eae
. A crew spraying hops in British Columbia... ...-.........-.-.------
.. Tarredeatchers-for hop flea-beetles’-<_-5-. 2 s.c. ee oo eee ee

Page.
59

60

61
72
76
wi
78
7
80
86
89

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 66, Part I. Issued March 16, 1907.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER.
(Agromyza simplex Loew. )
By F. H. Cuirrenpen,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

The stalks of asparagus are frequently attacked by insects, and in
recent years have been reported considerably injured by the larva or
maggot of a minute black fly to which the name asparagus miner has
been given. The larva mines under the epidermis of the stalk, and
when it has transformed to the puparium or ‘‘ flaxseed” stage the thin
outer skin becomes more or less ruptured and the presence of the
insect is easily detected. It operates more abundantly near the base
of the stalks and penetrates below the surface of the ground to a
depth of 7 or 8 inches. During the year 1906 this species attracted
considerable attention by its abundance in some of the principal
asparagus-growing sections of New England and it bids fair to become
a pest of considerable importance. It was first noticed on asparagus

Fie. 1.—Agromyza simplex: Fly, dorsal view at left, lateral view at right. Highly magnified
(original).

in 1896, ten years earlier than the present writing, prior to which
time nothing was known of its habits. It is a native species and evi-
dentiy restricted to asparagus as a food plant. Until the year 1906
it had not been recognized as doing injury to cutting beds, although
attack had been observed in various sections. The mines of the larvee
about and below the bases of the stalks are frequently so abundant
that they have the effect of girdling, so that the injured stalks can be
readily pulled from the ground.
DESCRIPTIVE.

The parent insect is a two-winged fly (fig. 1), metallic black, with
Jarge prominent head and eyes, and clear wings, the wing expanse
being about one-sixth of an inch (4 mm.).

2 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The larva (fig. 2, @) is about one-fifth of an inch long and milk-
white in color. Like other maggots, it is footless, large at the
posterior extremity, and tapering
toward the head. :

The puparium (fig. 2, d, e) is not
unlike the ‘‘ flaxseed” of the perni-
cious Hessian fly, with which it has
been aptly compared. At a little dis-
tance, also, it suggests a Lecanium
5 seale. This stage is remarkable be-
Ss pe UE cause of its peculiar flattened and

curved position, as seen from the
Fic. 2.—Agromyza simplex: a, larva, lateral Ae : :
view; b, thoracic spiracles; c, anal spiracles; side. It is red in color, and meas-

d, puparium from side; e, same from aboye; ures about 3.5 mm. in length and
f, section of asparagus stalk, showing injury } | : idth
and location of puparia on detached sec- abou mm. mm width.

tion; a-e, much enlarged; /, slightly reduced The ecg has not been observed.

ee This species belongs to the dipter-
ous family Agromyzide, and was described by Loew in 1869,% the
locality being given as ‘* Middle States.”

DISTRIBUTION.

In its injurious occurrences this species appears to be limited to the
eastern United States, from New England to Tennessee. From avail-
able data it is quite obvious, however, that it may be destructive over a
considerable territory, including a large portion of Massachusetts and
Connecticut, Long Island, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania,
and Tennessee. _ As it is recorded from New Jersey, it is probably
injurious there, although no reports of injury in that State have
reached this office. In time it will doubtless attract attention in inter-
mediate points and in States farther north and west. It has also
appeared in asparagus beds in California.

HISTORICAL AND BIOLOGICAL NOTES.

In May, 1897, and afterwards this fly was observed in abundance by
the writer on terminal shoots of asparagus, particularly at Cabin
John, Md. Two weeks later no more flies were seen, but June 26
they reappeared and were then usually seen 2x copula. It was sur-
mised at the time that this second appearance indicated the first new
generation of the year and its abundance on asparagus seemed to show
that it livedin some manner at the expense of that plant. Examination
of asparagus plants at that time, however, failed to show attack. The
facts which have just been narrated were published in 1898.°

aDiptera Americ septentrionalis indigena, Centuria octava 84, p. 46.
bBul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 62, 1898.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER. 3

In 1900 we received complaint of injuries in the District of Columbia,
and from Knoxville, Tenn., and in the meantime the species came
under the observation of Mr. F. A. Sirrine, who has stated” that work
was first observed in asparagus fields on Long Island in 1896. This
statement is made in a bulletin of six pages, which represents all that
was known of the species at that time.

Late in September, 1900, word was received from Mr. Frederic
Voigt, Tennallytown, D. C., of injury to the stalks of asparagus on
his and a neighboring truck farm. When the writer visited the
field, however, although injury was apparent on the outer skin of
some stalks, no living specimens could be obtained, only the dried
puparia being in evidence at this time. October 2 of the same year,
Mr. Samuel M. Bain, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn., sent
a stalk of asparagus showing the work of this miner upon the skin,
and, October 27, specimens of the dried puparia.

February 18, 1901, Mr. T. Miles Brous, Bustleton, Philadelphia, Pa.,
wrote that this insect, which he accurately described, seemed to cause
much greater trouble than the common asparagus beetle. A neighbor
had lost two or three new beds of asparagus on account of its ravages.

By the writer’s direction, Mr. F. C. Pratt visited a large truck farm
at Brookland, D. C., where asparagus was one of the main crops, June
18, 1902. Asparagus was still being cut for market, but volunteer
plants were growing here and there in fields of corn, cantaloupe, and
potatoes, between rows. A few flies were seen on terminal shoots of
asparagus that showed wilting, and many volunteer plants were found
badly infested, most individuals having transformed to pupe.
Although stems break off just below the ground, the entire colony of
insects below that point is left with sufficient moisture and nourish-
ment for their maintenance. The puparia were present in great
numbers underneath the outer skin of the root, and as many as nine
puparia were counted in a space only an inch long on one stalk. The
stalks below the point of injury appeared to be perfectly sound.
Larve also were found in rotting stalks that broke off just below ground.

During 1905 Mr. Ralph E. Smith reported this species as becoming
abundant in California, though not of any great importance at that
time. His description of the insects’ manner of work leaves no doubt
as to the identity of the species.’

RECENT INJURY.

During September, 1906, Messrs. J. B. Norton and A. D. Shamel,
of the Bureau of Plant Industry, furnished stems of asparagus from
Concord, Mass., showing severe infestation by this species, many

@ Bul. 189, N. Y. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 277, Geneva, 1900.
>Bul, 165, Univ. of Cal. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 96, 1905.

4 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

puparia being present under the mined outer skin. In the neighbor-
hood of Concord, a very important asparagus-growing region where
hundreds of acres are devoted to this crop, the infestation was practi-
cally absolute, the insect being found even as abundantly as the common
asparagus beetle, being present wherever rust was found, as also where
no rust was present. The specimens submitted were about the average
as regards the degree of infestation, some plants showing injury 7
inches below the surface.

Severe injury was reported on the farms of Mr. Frank Wheeler and
Mr. Charles W. Prescott, at Concord, Mass. The growers in that
region had never noticed this insect until Mr. Shamel’s examination
showed that its injuries were extensive. Later Mr. Shame! reported
finding infestation in every field and patch of asparagus which he
visited in Massachusetts and Connecticut, particularly at Suffield,
Granby, and Hartford, Conn., and he believed attack to be widespread.

October 26, 1906, Mr. Ralph E. Smith wrote, by request, that the
conditions under which this asparagus miner was found in abundance
in the yellow stalks of asparagus in California, as reported by him in
an article on Asparagus Rust Control,¢ had prevailed for two or three
years. The insect was always very abundant at the base of these yellow,
dying stalks, although the injury was attributed to the ‘‘centipede,”
reported as wireworms on a previous occasion.”

REMEDIAL MEASURES.

Witn our present knowledge of the life economy of this species, two
methods of control suggest themselves as of greatest value, and it may
be that they will prove all that is necessary under ordinary conditions.

(1) In spring permit a few volunteer asparagus plants to grow as a
trap crop, to lure the fly from the main crop or the cutting beds for
the deposition of her eggs. After this has been accomplished the trap
crop should be destroyed by pulling the infested plants and burning
them with their contained puparia. The time to pull the plants will
vary according to locality and somewhat according to season also.
The second and third week in June would be about the right time in
and near the District of Columbia. On Long Island this work should
be done a week or two later. In the northernmost range of this
insect—for example, in Massachusetts—the last of June and the first
of July would probably be a suitable time.

(2) The second generation can be destroyed in like manner by pull-
ing old infested asparagus stalks as soon as attack becomes manifest
and promptly burning them also.

ee

@Bul. 172, Univ. Cal. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 21; 2Bul. 165, 1. c.

THE ASPARAGUS MINER. 5

If this work were carefully done over a considerable area, it would
leave little necessity for other methods, since it would do away with
these insects in the vicinity and leave few to be dealt with another
season; unless, indeed, this insect has an alternate food plant. The
cooperation of neighboring asparagus growers and thoroughness are
essential for success.

This method will operate also against the rust which is now present
in many fields infested by the miner.

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES.

By F. H. Cairrenpen,
Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

Since the publication of the writer’s general article on the asparagus
beetles in the Yearbook for 1896,¢ many notes on their distribution and
destructive occurrences have been published. Some additional data
were published soon afterward.? The following brief review of the
subject is submitted as a sequel to those articles and a summary of the
further dissemination of these pests in a decade of years.

THE COMMON ASPARAGUS BEETLE.
(Crioceris asparagi L. )

The predictions made by the writer in regard to the future distri-
bution of the common asparagus beetle have been completely fulfilled
as regards its western spread, although it has not as yet been reported
as far south as Kentucky. Mr. J. G. Sanders, however, informs the
writer that it has been established about Columbus, Ohio, since 1903,
and Mr. Charles Dury, Cincinnati, Ohio, reported this species at Indian
Hill, about 7 miles from that city, onasparagus beds in 1905. Hundreds
were observed during June. The customary injury was noticed, and
plants appeared as though scorched with fire. In 1897 the species
was observed to have continued its spread westward along Lake Erie,
and was then known in nine counties in northeastern Ohio. The fol-
lowing year it was first noticed in western Virginia. In 1898 also it
was reported to have been present at Benton Harbor, Mich., since
1896. By 1899 it had made its appearance in Canada, accompanied by
the twelve-spotted species, in the Niagara River region.

It is interesting to note that in 1900 the present species, which had
been rapidly increasing its range in the East, including New York,
after occurring in injurious numbers in Maryland, was apparently
totally destroyed by the hot spell of July and August that occurred
in the District of Columbia and neighboring parts of Virginia and
Maryland; whence the conclusion that this condition prevailed to a
considerably larger extent than came to the writer’s personal notice.
In 1901 Dr. James Fletcher noted that the species, though present in
the Niagara district, had not increased to the extent that was feared.
It had spread to Guelph, Ontario, that year, and did much damage
about St. Catharines. In 1904 its occurrence around Toronto was

«Yearbook U. 8. Dept. Agric. f. 1896 (1897), pp. 341-352.
> Bul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agric., pp. 54-59, 1898.

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES. %

noticed. It was reported also 40 miles west of Chicago, Ill. It has
become very generally distributed in asparagus-growing districts in
New York State, and has reached Glens Falls, which approximates its
northernmost limit in this country. In 1905 we received complaint
of this insect as a pest in Illinois, at Park Ridge, and of its occurrence
about Chicago. Reports from Michigan showed that it had been
present there in 1904 in the vicinity of Ada, about 10 miles from
Grand Rapids, and that it was a pest in that vicinity.

Although the data given above indicate that the species is now well
distributed throughout the Upper Austral region, for some reason its
occurrence in Indiana has not yet come to our knowledge; neverthe-
less although there are naturally many uninyaded localities, it is
undoubtedly established in that State, most probably near Lake
Michigan.

As an example of its manner of distribution, it might be noted that
in May, 1905, the beetle was found for the first time in Warrenton,
Fauquier County, Va., a little farther inland than it had ever been
noticed in that section. Yet this species has been permanently estab-
lished in the adjoining Alexandria County for many years.

August 8, 1905, Mr. Ralph E. Smith wrote of the occurrence of this
species in California, stating that during two seasons it had been very
abundant at Bouldin Island, the principal asparagus center of that
region. As Mr. Smith was familiar with this insect and its occur-
rence on the Atlantic coast, there is little doubt that his identification
is correct. In the winter of 1904 to 1905 Bouldin Island was flooded
and remained under water for overa year. It had just been reclaimed
and there were no signs of the beetles. There is, therefore, a possibility
that the insect was exterminated in that region, and this includes the
State, if the occurrence of the species was only local.

The dying out of this asparagus beetle in small localities where it
has not become thoroughly established is not without precedent, as its
recorded occurrence at Rock Island, Ill., many years ago, has been
verified by specimens now in a Chicago museum, properly labeled
as collected there by the late A. Bolter, an experienced collector of
Coleoptera. Indeed, it would seem that few vegetable-feeding insects
are more subject to extermination in a limited locality not contiguous
to one also infested than is the present species.

October 26, 1906, Mr. Ralph E. Smith, at the writer’s request,
reported the status of this species in California. He wrote that during
the summer he found the beetles again, and that they were very abun-
dant in fields near Oakley, Cal. It could not. be stated that the insect
was of general occurrence in the State, but apparently it existed only
in a few scattered colonies. As previously reported the colony at
Bouldin Island appears to haye been exterminated by flood, and

55968°—Bull. 66—10 2

8 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the Oakley occurrence was the first that Mr. Smith had noted since.
In most of the asparagus acreage of the State the insect was not yet
present.

Mr. Franklin Sherman, jr., has kept a careful record of the occur-
rence of this species in North Carolina, and informed the writer, on
the occasion of a visit in 1906, that it is common in the east-central
part of the State in the trucking belt, and especially abundant at
Raleigh, Wake County, Goldsboro, Wayne County, and Warsaw,
Duplin County.

In order to make the present account of the known distribution of
this species as complete as possible, inquiry was made of the official
entomologists of the States of Kentucky, lowa, Missouri, Nebraska,
and Minnesota, all of whom reported that the occurrence of this spe-
cies in their States had not been brought to their attention. Mr. James
G. Moore, however, assistant in horticulture at the University of Wis-
consin, Madison, Wis., stated that the asparagus beetle had been found
in Wisconsin, but he had no special data on its distribution.

REMEDIES.

With regard to remedies good results have followed the experimental
use of arsenate of lead. This insecticide has come into very general
favor in recent years, and in the correspondence of this office we have
for some time advised its employment against most leaf-feeding beetles,
like the asparagus beetles. In Connecticut Dr. W. E. Britton “has made
a practical test of this remedy on asparagus plants, spraying them from
all four sides in succession because of the slight leaf exposure as com-
pared with most other plants. The day following treatment (June 4)
many dead beetles and larvee were found on and under the plants. A
few had survived and were feeding, but ten days later only a few
living larvee could be found, and the beetles did not again become
abundant on the plants during the summer. The same amount of
good might be accomplished with scarcely greater expense by spray-
ing from opposite sides and repeating just before the time for the last
generation to develop and in time to check the beetles before they go
into winter quarters.

In Pennsylvania Prof. H. A. Surface,’ in a series of experiments
with Paris green and arsenate of lead, applied to asparagus plants the
first week of June, 1905, found that not more than 50 per cent of the
insects were killed when Paris green and lime were used. With lead
arsenate 90 per cent were killed, while in one experiment, by the addi-
tion of resin soap, which is used as an addition to an insecticide to

@ Rept. Conn. Agric. Exp. Sta. f. 1903 (1904), pp. 275, 276.
» Monthly Bulletin, Div. of Zool., Pa. State Dept. Agric., Vol. IV, May, 1906, p. 8.

NOTES ON THE ASPARAGUS BEETLES. 2

enable the poison to adhere better to smooth plants, 100 per cent of
the insects were killed on the 50 plants treated. In this case the
arsenate of lead was used at the rate of about 1 pound to 24 gallons of
water, and 24 pounds of soap were added.

Arsenate of lead has been used with satisfactory results on asparagus
at the rate of 1 pound in 16 to 24 gallons of water. Additional experi-
ments are necessary to ascertain the exact amount of the poison that can
be used economically to produce the best effect. In Professor Surface’s
experiments evidently only a single spray was applied.

THE TWELVE-SPOTTED ASPARAGUS BEETLE.
(Crioceris 12-punctata L. )

Nearly every year since 1896, when the distribution of the twelve-
spotted asparagus beetle was recorded by the writer,’ the appearance
of this species has been noted in new localities in the United States,
until it is now well distributed westward and especially northward.

In 1898 Dr. J. B. Smith stated that it then occurred throughout the
State of New Jersey ‘‘south of the shale from the Atlantic coast to the
Delaware.” The following year (1899) it was recorded by Dr. E. P.
Felt from different counties in New York, and as far west as Buffalo.
In some places the species was abundant, while in some near-by locali-
ties it could not be found, showing that it was still locally distributed
through New York. It was afterwards recorded present in Albany,
Batavia, Leroy, Syracuse, Riverhead, Oswego, Center, Glendale,
Richmond Hill, Penfield, Elmira, Geneva, Ithaca, and about Brooklyn,
N. Y. It was also stated to occur in the Niagara district in Canada as
far back as Hamilton, Ontario.

An interesting point in regard to the occurrence of asparagus beetles
in the Niagara peninsula was that the two species appeared to have
arrived almost simultaneously in that region, but that the twelve-
spotted form was by far the more common one. In after years dif-
ferent observers noted its further spread in Canada, commenting upon
the fact that it led the common species in becoming diffused by natural
means. By 1902 it had appeared in Connecticut, at New Haven, and
later in other parts of that State.

Since some writers on these asparagus beetles have overlooked the
author’s second article’ it may be well to mention that facts additional
to those printed in the writer’s original article are given therein,
including a description and illustration of the egg and its manner of
deposition, and what is practically a complete account of the life his-
tory of the species, the insect being found to develop and to feed where
possible almost exclusively on the berry, although the beetles attack
young asparagus shoots before the berries appear.

« Yearbook U. 8S. Dept. Agric. f. 1896 (1897), pp. 350-351.
> Bul, 10, Div. Ent., U. 8. Dept. Agric., pp. 57-59, 1898.

10 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK OROPS.

The young larva.—The freshly hatched larva has not hitherto been
described. It may be briefly described as follows:

Head rounded, nearly twice as wide as long as seen from above; thoracic plates
distinctly separated at the middle, with the intervening space yellow; legs infuscated,
clear whitish at sutures. General color very pale yellowish, nearly white, and the
surface much wrinkled. Length 1 mm., width 0.35 mm.

U.8. D. A., B. E. Bul. 66, Part II. Issued April 23, 1907.

SOME INSECTS INJURKIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG.

(Mancasellus brachyurus Harger. )

By F. H. CuitrenpDen,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

During the past three years this isopod has attracted very consid-
erable attention because of its occurrence in troublesome numbers in
water cress (Nasturtium officinale) grown for market in portions of
Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The species is purely
aquatic, thus differing from our common dooryard sowbugs, which,
although most abundant in moist locations, are strictly terrestrial. It
belongs to an entirely different family, the Asellidee, which contains
three genera, mostly fresh-water forms, inhabitants of streams, wells,
pools, and lakes.

DESCRIPTIVE.

This species is so distinct from the more common sowbugs (Onis-
cide) that a brief description will suffice. Its general appearance
is shown, dorsal view, in figure 3. The body is much depressed, and
the legs are long and strong. Seen from the side, it is decidedly
shrimphke. The peculiar structure of the antenne may be noticed
in the illustration. They terminate in long flagella, composed of
many joints. When mature this sowbug attains a length of 13 or 14
millimeters, or a little upward of half an inch, and is a little more
than twice as long as wide, and gray in color. This creature is not an
insect, but a crustacean, and therefore classed with crayfish and crabs.
A detailed description is given by Miss Richardson,* who briefly men-
tions McKees Spring, Gaylord, and Lexington, Va., as localities
where this sowbug was “ reported injurious to water cress.”

By recent correspondence we have obtained necessary information
in regard to the habits and manner of operation of this sowbug, and
we have also been successful in ascertaining what promises to be a
very perfect remedy for the pest in its occurrence in streams and in
spring water. It appears to affect cress only below the surface of the
water, attacking the roots and lower leaves, and cutting off the stems

@ Monograph of the Isopods of North America. By Harriet Richardson. Bul.
54, U. S. National Museum, Washington, 1905, pp. 411-412, figs. 460-461.
11

12 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

near the bottom, causing bunches of the plant to float. In portions
of streams where these sowbugs have been found most abundantly
they are frequently seen crawling in a thick mass at the bottom.
They feed, so far as known, exclusively on cress, not being reported
as attacking any other form of vegetation.

REPORTS OF INJURIOUS OCCURRENCES.

This sowbug has been observed as a pest since 1902. Our first
report of its pernicious habits was made in 1904, when we received
specimens through Mr. J. W. Bryan, Anacostia, D. C., from Hall-
town, W. Va., where it was very injurious to water cress.

In March, 1905, Mr. Powell Arnette reported injury at Gaylord,
Va., to cress grown in spring water. The
sowbugs were always found in the water
and did not attack cress above the surface.
After destroying the last vestige of cress
in one of his ponds they remained on the
bottom “a foot deep,” crawling about on
the mud.

During 1906 (June 18) Mr. John H.
Reed, Carlisle, Pa., wrote in regard to this
species and its destructive work on water
cress in his locality. Specimens were re-
ceived August 11. The sowbug was ob-
Fic, 3—The water-cress sowbug Served principally on the roots and lower

eee By een En- leaves, crawling up along the stem and

3 cutting off the leaves. August 10 Mr.
George C. Jordan, Washington, D. C., sent specimens from Basic
City, Va., stating that this “water bug” was devouring his cress
beds, and, since a million or more were colonized on the plants, there
would be no crop at the rate they were reproducing. When the
plants were lifted the sowbugs were observed to drop from them.

¢

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Three ways of controlling this species are suggested. The first
and most important consists in a method of growing the water cress
so as to eliminate injuries by the sowbug. The second falls under
the head of direct remedies, and none of these has as yet given sat-
isfactory results. The third consists in the use of fish or fowls as
destroyers. This last means of eradicating the pest has not yet had
a fair trial.

The following description of a successful method of disposing of
the cress sowbug has been placed at our disposal by Messrs. B. Bryan

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG. 13

& Son, who are practical cress growers and have had several years’
experience with the pest:

A METHOD OF GROWING WATER CRESS TO DISPOSE OF THE SOWBUG.

The damage done by the sowbug to water cress has made it our greatest
enemy in cress growing, and only after fighting it for four years have we sue-
ceeded in finding a way to keep down its numbers so as to be sure of a crop.
As cress is ordinarily grown—in lakes or streams of spring water anywhere
from 6 inches to 3 feet in depth—it seems impracticable to apply any insecti-
cide. At first we tried to catch the bugs with wire-netting traps placed where
the whole stream of water had to pass through them, but the bugs remained
among the cress, and we caught only about 20 per cent.

Later, in using copper sulphate to kill moss in the cress, we found that it
also killed the sowbugs, snails, ete., when applied freely. Furthér experiments,
however, proved that bluestone could not be applied in deep running water any
better than the insecticides previously tried, and when applied in shallow or
still water it injured the cress.

The method we are employing at present to fight the sowbug is largely a
matter of arrangement of cress beds (see fig. 4), and can be used only where
the bottoms of the beds can be graded and drained or where level land adjoins

POD Tider, HH EEGs
.

WATER LEVEL

—|TROUGH

Fic. 4.—Cross section of cress pond showing arrangement for avoiding damage by the
water-cress sowbug.

the source of the water supply. We dug long trenches in level land, making
them 16 feet wide and about 15 inches deep. Lengthwise they were graded to
give a fall of 8 inches in 100 feet, and crosswise to make the center of the
trench several inches deeper than the sides. In the center and running the full
length of the trench a trough made of three 10-inch boards was sunk below the
bottom of the trench in such a way that all of the water might be drained out
of the trench through it. Then, with the upper and lower ends of the trench
and trough arranged to be opened or closed, the trench could be filled or emptied
at will and the flow of water regulated up to 8 inches in depth over the cress.
Of course fertile soil was put in the trenches and the cress could be planted
either before or after the water was turned in.

With cress beds arranged as above, manipulation to dispose of the sowbugs
is simple. By cutting off the water supply and allowing the water to pass out
at the lower end of the trench, the sowbugs will collect in the trough, following
the receding water, as they can live only in water. No little puddles should
remain among the cress, as the bugs will collect in them instead of in the trough.
It will be found necessary, also, to use boards to walk on in gathering the cress,
as prints of one’s boots in the beds would make holes for the bugs to shelter in.
The bugs do not move until nearly all of the water is drawn out of the trench.
Thus they are collected in a small amount of water in the trough and can then
be readily killed with a liberal amount of bluestone, either solid or in solution.

as SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

To make the work thorough, water should not be turned into the trench again
for twelve or twenty-four hours, in which time the few bugs left among the
cress stems will die or find their way to the trough. The trenches can be cleared
of bugs in warm weather as frequently as desired, but less danger is Gone the
eress crop if the work is done just after gathering the cress.

The same method of disposing of the sowbugs could be used in greenhouses
in the winter, but cress grown in the open air could not be exposed in freezing
weather, making the remedy inapplicable in cold weather.

We have not used water in these trenches deeper than 10 inches, and are not
able to say how a larger or more rapidly flowing supply of water would act,
nor have we grown winter cress in them, as our water supply is insufficient
for that purpose.

OTHER REMEDIES.

About the only other remedies which we have been able to suggest
are the use of a substance, such as sulphate of copper or chlorid of
lime, which might be placed in the water to destroy the pest. As
the former has already been tested by Messrs. B. Bryan & Son (see
page 13), it need not be mentioned further.

Mr. John H. Reed states that a grower at Healing Springs, Va.,
has a remedy consisting of a poisonous material which is placed in
the water, but he does not know the ingredients nor whether there
would be danger to stock drinking the water below the spring. He
writes also of the possible use of chlorid of lime. A tank of bleach
composed principally of chlorid of lime ran into a creek at Mount
Holly Springs, Pa., killed everything that was living in that stream
for about half a mile downward, but did not poison stock that drank
the water. The bleach came from a paper-mill tank which had
burst. If chlorid of lime is tested it should be used on a very small
scale at first to note the effect on plant life. It is apt to be harmful
to trout and other fish present.

Mr. Reed also suggested the employment of ducks to destroy the
pest, but this would necessitate the abandonment of cress culture for
a season, as the ducks would injure the condiment both by eating it
and by fouling the water.

Among other remedies, we have recommended draining off the
water where possible and exposing the sowbugs to the drying effects
of the sun.

FISHES AS A POSSIBLE MEANS OF DESTROYING THIS ISOPOD.

In response to inquiry, the following information was received
from the Bureau of Fisheries, through Mr. Lawrence O. Murray,
Acting Secretary, Department of Commerce and Labor, in regard to
the fishes which might be found useful in the destruction of this
aquatic isopod in its occurrence on water cress:

Among the fishes which would probably prove most useful for this purpose
and with which it is suggested that the Department may wish to experiment

THE WATER-CRESS SOWBUG. 15

are the fresh-water killifishes Fundulus notatus, FP. diaphanus, and F. dispar.
The first occurs from Michigan to Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, and is
rather common in small lowland ponds. The second is found from Maine to
North Carolina in river mouths, in the Great Lakes, and in practically all of
the small lakes in the upper Mississippi Valley. The third occurs in smaller
lakes and ponds from northern Ohio to Illinois and south to Mississippi.
Specimens of each of these species could be obtained at any one of several
small lakes in the northern part of Indiana.

It is probable that some of the catfishes might also be useful in this connec-
tion, and it is suggested that it might be worth while to try one or more of
the small species known as “mad Toms,” belonging to the genus Schilbeodes.
One or more species of this genus can be found in almost any small, sluggish
stream in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The writer believes that carp should prove of value in keeping
down this cress sowbug, there being one drawback, however, that the
carp must be watched to see that they do not develop too rapidly
and that they do not attack the cress or make the water muddy. Cat-
fish have been tried and found wanting in the case of the water-cress
leaf-beetle, which will be considered elsewhere (pp. 16-20).

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE.

(Phedon xruginosa Suftr. )

By F. H. Cairrenpen,
Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

INJURIOUS OCCURRENCE.

Among plant-feeding native insects which have recently appeared
in new roles is a little blackish leaf-beetle, Phadon wruginosa Suffr.,
which was reported for the first time as injurious to water cress
(Nasturtium officinale) in Pennsylvania, in 1903.

During September Mrs. Hannah B. Hannum, Brandywine Summit,
Pa., sent larvee and adults of this species, with statement that they
were devastating her water-cress pond. Both larvee and beetles fed
chiefly on the lower side of the leaves. In confinement they con-
tinued feeding, attacking the stalks also. The larve all reached
development about the same time, being fully matured September 11
and 12, on the last of these two days crawling about the rearing jar
and ceasing to feed. The pupal period was not observed, but it
probably lasted ten days or a fortnight, as the weather was cool.
The beetles continued for some time in our rearing cages, frequently
pairing, but depositing no eggs.

August 19, 1904, Mrs. Hannum sent additional specimens of this
species in the beetle and nearly grown larval stages. It was noticed
that the beetles did not swim rapidly, but steadily, and they were
seemingly not discomposed by being somewhat out of their natural
element. It seems probable that they fly from plant to plant, and
like most beetles undoubtedly are able to float for many hours, and
perhaps even swim short distances until they reach a landing place.
September 13 our correspondent sent still another lot of this species,
mostly beetles, but a number of larvee were included.

Specimens of the larve of a syrphus fly accompanied this sending
and probably fed at times on the small larve of the beetle.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The beetle—This species belongs to the tribe Chrysomelini of the
family Chrysomelide. It is classified in our publications on the
Coleoptera of America north of Mexico with Plagiodera, but Eu-
ropean systematists place allied forms in the genus Phedon Latr.,
which now comprises seven species occurring in our country. They
are very small semiglobose forms. The outline is oval, with the thorax

16

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE. aly

narrowed anteriorly and the apex margined. The elytra have eight
punctate strize, with a short subsutural and submarginal row of
punctures. The third joint of the tarsi is emarginate apically.

The present species measures a scant one-eighth of an inch in
length (3 mm.), is shining bronzy black, and has the elytral intervals
apparently smooth, but in reality faintly rugulose when highly mag-
nified, while the thorax is microscopically reticulate: The original
description appeared in 1858.4

The egg.—The eggs have not come under observation. They prob-
ably resemble those of the European Ph. armoracie L., described by
Fryer as “ elongated oval and of a dark orange color.”

Fic. 5.—The water-cress leaf-beetle (Phaedon wruginosa): a, adult; b, larva, from above;
ce, same, from side; d, pupa. Enlarged twelve times (original).

The larva—tvThe larva appears somewhat like that of a related
genus, Galerucella, only that it is very much smaller. It is about
three or four times as long as wide, depending upon whether it
is somewhat contracted or fully extended. The head is subtruncate
in front, with the antenne lateral (in preserved specimens). The
head is shining black, and the remainder of the body very dark brown
or brownish black relieved by lhghter areas between the segments.
The first thoracic segment is a little wider than the head; the sec-
ond considerably wider than that, and the third widest, being nearly
as wide as the first two abdominal segments. The second abdominal
is widest, and at the same time the widest part of the body. The
surface is sparsely covered with long hairs placed on piliferous tu-
bercles, which are arranged some distance apart, as shown in figure
5, b. The tubercles on the sides of the dorsum are sometimes very
prominent, and the larva is able to extend these, possibly, at will.
From the abdominal segments large tubercular sections bearing hairs
at their summit extend on each side. The anal segment is pale, like
the ventral surface, which bears dark piliferous tubercles. Length,
5 mm.; width, 1.2-1.5 mm.

a Ent. Zeitung, Stettin, Vol. x1x, pp. 895, 396, 1858.

18 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

The pupa.—The pupa is illustrated by figure 5, d, which will
answer better than a verbal description. The color is yellow, and the
length is slightly less than that of the adult.

The distribution of this species is probably moderately wide and
additional study must be given this subject. At present we know of
its occurrence in the District of Columbia, in Massachusetts, and
probably in West Virginia.

LITERATURE.

Brief mention of the occurrence of this leaf-beetle as an enemy of
water cress in Pennsylvania in 1908 was made by the writer,’ but
Mr. Frederick Knab, of this office, mentioning the same species as
Plagiodera viridis, has recorded” its occurrence in great abundance
upon water cress near Springfield, Mass., in 1902. The identity of
the species in question has been verified by the comparison of speci-
mens, and Mr. Knab’s record was evidently made on the assumption
of Crotch ¢ that wruginosa was merely a variety of viridis.

HABITS OF THIS AND A RELATED SPECIES.

We can not at the present writing give an approximate statement
of the life history of Phedon wruginosa, and hence must depend on
what is known of the related Ph. armoracie, which is common to both
continents. This latter has evidently been introduced into this
country, but its habits have apparently not been studied here. It is
known in England as the blue beetle and mustard beetle,’ and is of
considerable importance locally, in some seasons ravaging entire
fields of mustard, cress, cabbage, and kohlrabi. It passes the winter
as adult, reappearing in spring on cruciferous plants. Fryer stated
that in the three years prior to 1881 the Isle of Ely, England, suffered
from the ravages of this species, entire fields being injured. Mustard
was attacked at about the time of the formation of the seed pod and
after the stalks were stripped nearly to the cuticle the beetles trans-
ferred their attention to kohlrabi, which they completely consumed,
at first attacking the leaves and afterwards the bulbs, leaving nothing
but bare stalks.

The water-cress leaf-beetle is doubtless no exception to the general
rule among most Chrysomelide and other species of Pheedon, in
laying its eggs on the under side of the leaves. Both larve and

aYbk. U. S. Dept. Agric. f. 1903 (1904), p. 564; 6 Entomological News, March,
1903, p. 89; ¢ Crotch, Proc. Acad. Phila., 1873, pp. 54, 55; @Phedon armoracie
L. syn.: Plagiodera cochlearie Panz., Gyll.; Phedon betule Kiist. It is not
the same as cochleariw Fab. ¢@ Fryer and others have given accounts of this
species in The Entomologist (Vol. XIV, pp. 44, 187, etc.).

THE WATER-CRESS LEAF-BEETLE. IS)

adults attack the cuticle of the stem after feeding on the leaves, as
has been noticed in the case of armoracie. EK. A. Fitch has ob-
served the partiality of the latter for water cress and other crucif-
ers which grow in watery places and mentions the destruction of an
entire crop of horseradish.

Kaltenbach “ records, according to Gyllenhall and his own obser-
vations, Veronica beccabunga, Cardamine amara, and Cochlearia
armoracia or horseradish as food plants, and states that the larva
undergoes metamorphosis in the earth, the pupa state lasting four-
teen days. Cornelius? is cited as having observed two generations,
the spring generation being found in May and June and the second in
September. Thomas H. Hart records the water starwort of England
(Callitricha verna) as another host plant. T. R. Billups,’ an ento-
mologist as well as truck grower, mentioning this species as Phedon
betulw, states that it is “ one of the greatest insect pests the market
gardeners around London have to contend with.” Our American
species undoubtedly hibernate as adults and appear in early spring
under boards and similar shelter.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

How to successfully control this insect under ordinary conditions
is quite a problem. Paris green was tried by our correspondent,
mixed with flour and sprinkled over the plants when the dew was on,
and this reduced the numbers of the insect somewhat. Owing to the
moist condition of the plants, however, the flour formed a paste
which stuck lke glue, and it was therefore abandoned. Applied in
water it rolled off the plants. We were not informed if this appli-
cation was made with a spraying machine. If the plants were
sprayed lightly with a fine spray, it might answer, or, better, Paris
green dry with only 20 parts of flour, or plaster or air-slaked lime.
An arsenical should not be used within about a week of the time of
cutting the cress for market. In the case of Paris green there is
practically no danger of poisoning even if it were used later, as the
washing which is given the cress will carry away all perceptible
traces of the poison.

If conditions should be such that the pond or stream in which
water cress infested by this species is growing could be completely
overflowed, it would cause the insects to rise to the surface, and in the
case of running water would wash them downstream. Flooding
alone might not entirely solve the problem, as these beetles are able to
survive considerable immersion.

When the cress is grown in sufficiently large bodies of water ex-

aPflanzenfeinde, p. 26; ®Stett. Ent. Zeit., 1863, p. 123; ¢'The Entomologist,
Vol. XIV, 1881, p. 236.

20 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

periments should be made with some of the fish mentioned on page 15
as possibly useful for destroying cress insects. Ducks might also be
found valuable. Catfish were tried, but without avail.

Mrs. Hannum has recently written that she attained the greatest
success by growing the water cress in running water which carried
the beetles away. In cold weather it was necessary to plant in
houses where the cress did well until the coming of warm and dry
weather, when the beetles would sometimes clean it out almost en-
tirely, leaving only the roots. By tearing the cress out of the houses
and in ponds which were not exposed to running water she could
replant her beds, and hoped in time to get rid of the pest.

U.S. D. A., B. E. Bul. 66, Part III. Issued August 31, 1907.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM.

(Cleora pampinaria Guen. )
By F. H. Cuirrenpen,

Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

A brownish spanworm has been observed by the writer during
recent years on asparagus in the District of Columbia in such numbers
as to indicate that it is especially attached to this crop, at least in
this region. In consideration of the fact that so few insects attack
asparagus, the accompanying account has been prepared. The spe-
cles appears to have attracted no attention since 1884.77 when it
was considered in relation to its appearance in cranberry bogs.
From material recently collected, several facts hitherto unrecorded
have been gained, and there are a number of unpublished notes of
the Bureau showing a tendency on the part of the species to become
omnivorous. At any rate it is not confined to cranberry, as the
name given above would imply, nor to strawberry, as might be in-
ferred from another name, “ brown strawberry spanworm,” which
has also been given it. The list of food plants which will pres-
ently be furnished shows a considerable range. Owing to the fact
that the insect has not often been observed concentrated on any single
crop, little mention of it has been made in literature by economic
writers. Cranberry is a favorite food plant, and is sometimes in-
jured to a considerable extent, especially in Massachusetts.

DESCRIPTIVE.

This insect belongs to the lepidopterous family Geometride, the
larve of which are well known under the common names of span-
worms, measuring-worms, inch-worms, and loopers.

The moth which produces this spanworm is quite variable in color
and markings. The average expanse of wing is from a little less than
an inch to upward of an inch and a fourth (22-32™"), but may
exceed this, attaining, according to Dr. A. S. Packard,‘ a measurement
of an inch and a half. ‘The ground color of living specimens is pale

@The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the
appended bibliography, p. 27.

22 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

leaden gray, and of old mounted material a duller gray, thickly dif-
fused with black and brown dots and other markings more or less con-
stant, forming irregular lines across both fore-wings and hind-wings.
On both there is a marginal regular scalloped black line and within
this a strongly dentate or zigzag white line. The general pattern of
the wings varies considerably from that shown in figure 6, a, which
represents the female. The color of the body is similar to that of the
wings. The first abdominal segment is white above.

The sexes can be readily distinguished by the antenne. Those of
the female are filiform and tessellated and those of the male rather
strongly pectinate, or feathered. ‘The structure of the latter is shown
at e and f, figure 6.

“Tt may be known,” says Packard, “ by the very distinct line at the
base of the abdo-
men, the basal
wing beyond be-
ing wisi iby
white, and the
underside of the
wings having a
broad marginal
shade, while the
third line on the
fore-wing is
deeply but quite
regularly sinuate
and near the
costa acutely
dentate.”

Fic. 6.—The cranberry spanworm (Cleora pampinaria): a, Female moth; A number of
b, larva, dorsal view; c, larva, lateral view; d, pupa; ¢, male antenna;
f, enlarged jointsofsame. All enlarged; e, f, more enlarged (original).

Synonyms are
credited to Cle-
ora pampinaria. Tt has indeed received five specific names. As three
of these were given by Guenée, it is of itself indicative of the varia-
tion of the moth. The list follows:

Boarmia sublunaria Gn., Spee. & Gen., IX, 248 (1857); B. frugallaria Gn.,
Spec. & Gen., IX, 246 (1857); B. collecta Wlk., Cat. Brit. Mus., XCXI, p2 397
(1860) ; Cleora tinctaria Wlk., Cat. Brit. Mus., XXI, p. 486 (1860) ; Boarmia
fraudulentaria Zeller, Verh. zool.-bot. Ges. Wien, XXII, p. 492 (1872); Cymato-
phora pampinaria Pack., Mon. Geom., p. 452 (1876).

The egg appears not to have been described.

The larva.—The larva resembles those of other geometrids in being
of elongate form, about nine times as long as wide, with the three
pairs of thoracic or front legs bunched closely together near the head,
and in having only two pairs of prolegs, or unjointed legs, at the

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. rp)

opposite extremity. The color varies to a considerable extent from
mottled pale yellowish to brown, often with an olivaceous or greenish
tint. Those which have been recently captured in the District of
Columbia are reddish brown, mottled, streaked, and lined with lighter
yellowish, red, and black. The head is strongly marked with trans-
verse irregular black bands. The thoracic segments are marked
above by a pair of thin median longitudinal lines. The second
abdominal segment bears on the dorsal surface a pair of prominent,
widely separated, mostly black tubercles, but in some individuals
these are wanting. The penultimate segment also bears above a
smaller pair of black tubercles. The larva when full grown measures
an inch to upward of an inch and a fourth in length (25-33™") and
the greatest diameter is about one-eighth of an inch (3™™). The singu-
lar construction of the legs, or rather the lack of the intermediate legs
usually present in caterpillars of other families, is the cause of the
peculiar motions of the spanworms in crawling about in search of
food, which have given them their popular names. When in motion
a larva extends its body to full length, then brings the posterior legs
close to the anterior ones, causing the body to loop in the center.
The body is then stretched out again, these actions being repeated
alternately.

When this spanworm is in repose it attaches itself to the foliage—
for example, to the stem of asparagus—by means of its anal pair of
legs and stretches out its body rigidly and at an angle so that its
natural colors harmonize with the foliage or with the landscape.
On this head Doctor Smith has remarked that on a section of cran-
berry bog on which this species is feeding the observer may stand in
the midst of thousands of them and see none until something starts
them into motion. Then it appears almost as though the entire bog
were alive. As the spawnworms hang somewhat tenaciously to their
food plants, they are undoubtedly present frequently in numbers
without anyone being the wiser.

The half-grown larva is described by Doctor Forbes.‘

The pupa, shown, ventral view, in figure 6 at d, is of robust form,
hight greenish brown in color, and a little less than half an inch in
length (12™) and about a third of that (4™™") in width.

DISTRIBUTION.

The wide distribution ‘of this insect is shown by the following list
of localities, based upon Doctor Packard’s list, where the authorities
for each locality are given: Maine; Amherst, Cape Cod, Cotuit,
Natick, Mass.; West Farms, Center, Albany, and Brewster, N. Y.;
Philadelphia, Pa.; Lansing, Mich.; Dayton, Ohio (Pilate); Glen-
coe, Nebr.; Cadet, Mo.; Centralia and elsewhere in Illinois; Wash-
ington and Brookland, D. C.; Georgia; Calhoun, Dawson, and De-

55968°—Bull. 66—10——3

24 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK GROPS.

mopolis, Ala.; Lake Bearsford, Florida; Bastrop County and else-
where in Texas.

The above localities indicate a distribution ranging from the
transition life zone through the upper to the lower austral. The
occurrence of the species in Florida, Alabama, and Texas would
indicate that it is to be found throughout the Gulf region. The
insects observed by Glover were stated to appear in the Carolinas,
Georgia, and Florida in early October.

BIOLOGIC LITERATURE.

The spanworm under consideration was described under the name
of Boarmia pampinaria by Guenée in 1857.2. In 1876 Dr. A. S.
Packard gave a detailed description of the moth, with a consideration
of its distribution and remarks on the larva and pupa, the former
being stated to feed on pear. In 1881 Dr. G. H. French® had a
note on the larva observed feeding on willow and geranium; larve
transformed to pupx September 16 and October 2, and the imagoes
issued April 17 of the following year. During the year 1883 this
species was observed by Dr. J. B. Smith,’ then a temporary agent
of this office, doing injury at Cotuit, Mass. During that year the
spanworms were so abundant in the cranberry bogs in that vicinity
that their numbers could be compared only to the army worm
(Heliophila unipuncta Haw.). In the case in question they began in
a space about a rod square, devoured that, and spread in a direct
line across the bog. The number of moths that would have been
produced from these insects should they have been permitted to
transform was described as being “ frightful.” A rather full account
by Dr. S. A. Forbes followed in 1884,° in which the statement was
made that the larva was found in midsummer feeding on leaves of
strawberry in southern [hnois. Larve obtained August 1 pupated
onthe 11th,and the moths emerged on the 22d, giving eleven days as
the pupal stage at that season. Larve collected September 6, about
half grown, were believed to represent a second generation, The
larva of this species came under the observation of the writer on
asparagus first in 1897.11. In 1899 Doctor Lugger '? stated that the
eaterpillars were found on apple and blackberry, and that there were
at least two generations annually.

As this is one of the commonest species of its genus, of wide. dis-
tribution, and authentically determined as living on cotton, there
seems little doubt that it was the type of Glover’s account of “ the
larger spanworm,” figured and described in his accounts of insects
frequenting the cotton plant, published in 18561 and again in 1878.°
A curious blunder was made by M. D. Landon, who figured this
species as the “cotton caterpillar (Voctua xylina)” in 1865,3 this
illustration being a crude copy taken from Glover’s first or 1856
account of this spanworm, .

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. 95
UNPUBLISHED OFFICE NOTES.

June 5, 1879, we received from Mr. William Trelease, then at
Dawson, Ala., larvae found feeding on cotton. June 12 a larva
kept under observation changed to pupa, and on June 26 the moth
issued, this individual having passed 14 days as pupa. The same
year the moth was reared on several occasions from material obtained
on red clover in the District of Columbia by Messrs. Pergande and
Howard. June 28 the moth issued from the pupa. August 15 the
larva was observed feeding; changed to pupa August 25, and issued
as moth March 1 of the following year. August 29 the larva was
observed feeding; changed to pupa September 4, the moth issuing
March 22 of the next year.

February 6, 1880, we received from Lake Bearsford, Fla., from
Prof. J. H. Comstock, a larva obtained on orange.

There are also reared specimens of moths in the U. S. National
Museum bearing labels showing the rearing of moths and occurrence
of larve on different plants, as follows: On locust, May 6, 1893,
District of Columbia; hickory, November 24, 1894, Cadet, Mo., and
August 4 of the same year on pear, locality presumably the District
of Columbia. There is also a specimen labeled “on guava,” proba-
bly from Florida.

August 6, 1904, specimens of this spanworm were received from
Calhoun, Ala., where they were found feeding on cotton and were
mistaken for the cotton leaf-worm (Alabama argillacea Hbn.). The
adult issued August 29. Larvee were about full-grown when received,
August 9, and it seems probable that they underwent a short stage
of xstivation before transforming to pupe, as the pupal stage is less
than 20 days in midsummer.

During the first two weeks of October for several years larvee have
been observed on asparagus grown in the District of Columbia, the
species appearing in moderate numbers. The first moth that has
been reared from October-collected larve appeared in January, and
others appeared in February. As this was in confinement the dates
were not natural ones.

LIST OF FOOD PLANTS.

It is, as previously remarked, owing to the omnivorous habit of this
species, causing a distribution of attack, that noticeable injury has
not been ascribed to it elsewhere than in cranberry bogs. It is com-
mon enough in the vegetable and truck garden, but not confined to
any particular place on the farm, occurring in orchards, on forest
and shade trees, and on other plants. The list of observed food plants
includes asparagus, strawberry, blackberry, ornamental geranium,
apple, pear, orange, willow, hickory, cranberry, honey locust, cotton,
clover, and guava. As a rule the larve confine themselves to the

26 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

foliage of these plants, but Glover states that they sometimes feed
upon the petals of the flowers of cotton, although doing little harm
to the general crop.

THE INSECT’S LIFE HISTORY.

Our knowledge of the lfe history of this species is somewhat
incomplete. The repeated rearing of moths in early spring and the
occurrence of larvee in the latter part of June in Massachusetts as
recorded by Smith, as also in the District of Columbia and elsewhere
as late as October, noted by the writer and others, show at least two
generations in the Northern States, while the record of the oceur-
rence of the moths in March in Texas (by Belfrage) would indi-
rate that in the Gulf States there may be an additional generation.
It would seem practically impossible for larvee hatching from eggs
deposited in early spring to require until late October to attain
maturity, hence the natural inference of two generations for a
climate like the District of Columbia. The cranberry growers of
Massachusetts claim two generations for that State, one appearing —
as larve in June and early July, the other in the latter part of
August.

The eggs are unknown, and the periods of egg and larva have
not been ascertained, but the pupal condition has been observed to
be passed, for the first generation, in from 11 to 14 days, while the
over-wintering pupa consumes five or six months in the District of
Columbia, a shorter time farther south, and a longer time northward.

The date of the appearance in the North of the first moths has
not been learned positively nor the natural time of emergence of the
first new generation of moths.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

Doctor Smith’ has stated that the larve of this spanworm are
checked by parasites, but that in some localities almost every year
they become numerous enough to be destructive. In some years,
however, in the cranberry bogs of New Jersey they are not seen at
all, showing great scarcity, due probably in part, at least, to natural
causes. Only one parasite for this species is known, namely, £’a-
orista boarmiw Coq., a tachina fly reared at this Department from
Cotuit and other localities in Massachusetts several years ago.

REMEDIES.

This species is not difficult to control on asparagus or other truck
crops. As it feeds in free exposure on the foliage, spraying with
Paris green or arsenate of lead will destroy it, and when either of
these insecticides is used for the asparagus beetles it will kill all of
the spanworms which may be present. The Paris green may be

THE CRANBERRY SPANWORM. 27

used at the rate of 1 pound to about 100 to 150 gallons of water, and
the arsenate of lead at the rate of about 1 pound to 25 to 50 gallons
of water. The same remedies will apply equally well to the occur-
rence of this species in cranberry bogs.

)

|

10

11

13

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

GLOVER, 'TOWNEND. Report Commissioner Patents, p. 92, Plate VIII, fig. 4,
1855 (1856).

Probably this species. Appears in Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida early in
October and feeds upon the petals of the cotton flower; larva and adult described
and figured.

GUENEE, M. A. Species Géneral des Lépidoptéres, Vol. IX, Phalénites,
pp. 245, 246, 248, 1857.

Original description as Boarmia pampinaria from near Baltimore, as B. frugal-
laria from Georgia, and as B. sublunaria from North America.

LANDON, M. D. Rept. Comm. Agr. f. 1864 (1865), p. 90.
Erroneously figured as the ‘“ cotton caterpillar (Noctua «ylina).”
PacKarD, A. S. Report U. S. Geological Survey Terr., Hayden, Vol. X,
pp. 432, 442, Plate XI, fig. 20, 1876.

Technical and detailed description of moth; synonymy; distribution and note
on larva and pupa, the former feeding on pear.

GLOVER, TOWNEND. Cotton and its principal injurious insects< Washington,
D. C., Plate VII, figs. 6, 7, 8, 1878.

Figures larva, chrysalis, and moth; found early in October in Georgia feeding
on flowers of the cotton plant.

FrencH, G. H. Papilio, Vol. I, p. 82, 1881.
Notes on larva found feeding on willow and geranium,
SmirH, J. B. Bul. 4 (0. s.), Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., pp. 26—28, 1884.
A two-page account in reference to injuries to cranberries; description of
larva; referred to as Cymatophora pampinaria; remedies.
Forses, 8S. A. Thirteenth Rept. State Entomologist Illinois, pp. T6—-78, 1883
(1884).

A rather full account. Larva found frequently in midsummer in southern
Illinois feeding on leaves of strawberry; description of larva, pupa, and imago
(quoted from Packard).

Forses, 8. A. Trans. Miss. Valley Hort. Soc., Vol. II, p. 235, 1884.
Quotations of first two paragraphs of No. 8.
. Packarp, A. 8. Fifth Report U. S. Ent. Commission, p. 654, 1890.
Included in a list of insects affecting honey locust (Gleditschia triacanthos).
. CHITTENDEN, F. H. Bul. 10, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 61, 1898.
An unknown geometrid larva feeding on asparagus; subsequently ascertained
to be this species.
. Luaeer, Orro. Fourth Rept. Entomologist State Exp. Station Minn., pp.
187, 188, fig. 188, 1898 (1899).
Notes on the moth; caterpillar found on the apple and blackberry. Short gen-
eral account.
. SMITH, J. B. Farmers’ Bulletin 178, U. S. Dept. Agriculture, pp. 19-21,
1903.

Account of injuries to cranberry, life history, and remedial measures.

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR.

(Mamestra legitima Grote. )

By F. H. Cuirrenpen,
Entomologist in Charge of Breeding Experiments.

A strikingly beautiful black and yellow striped caterpillar is fre-
quently found in- gardens, and occasionally in such numbers as to
attract attention. It is a general feeder, like most of its kind, but is
somewhat partial to asparagus, cruciferous plants, peas, and other
leguminous vegetables. Its occurrence in the District of Columbia in
some numbers, especially on asparagus, has permitted a study of the
species, which adds somewhat ta what has previously been published.
Only a few short notices of this insect have appeared in publications
of the Department of Agriculture or elsewhere, to the writer’s knowl-
edge. The following somewhat brief account is therefore presented.

This species is a noctuid, related to the cutworms, and is congeneric
with the zebra caterpillar (J/amestra picta Uarr.). The moth was
originally described in 1864," the species at that time being known
from the middle and eastern States, where it was stated to be com-
mon. It is also recorded as occurring in the northern States. Evi-
dently, considering its numbers in the Gulf region, it may be found
in most States east of the Mississippi River Valley.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The moth is quite prettily marked, as can be seen by referring to
figure 7, a. The prevailing tint of the fore-wings is a light lead
color, marked with velvety-black and brown spots, the pattern varying
somewhat but usually about as figured. The lower wings are fawn
colored, with dusky margins, and the veins are moderately prominent.
The females, as is usual with this group, have the abdomen as illus-
trated, while the males have abdomens with bushy tips. The wing
expanse is a little more than an inch and a quarter.

The eggs.—No description of the egg is available at the present
writing.

The larva is also a pretty form and its markings recall the zebra
‘aterpillar. It will be noticed by the figure (fig. 7, 6, ¢) that there is
considerable difference, however, and the two species are not at all
likely to be confused by anyone who carefully examines them. The
present species has a larger and wider head and is darker than is
usual with the common zebra caterpillar. The appearance of the
head from in front is shown at d. The stripes with which the body is

aApamea legitima, Proc. Hunt. Soc. Phila., Vol. III, p. 82.

28

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR. 29

ornamented are black and yellow, as with the zebra caterpillar, but the
lateral stripe is divided into two portions, the upper one lighter than
the lower, and the entire lateral surface when marked consists of
regular stripes, w hereas in the other species these stripes are broken
up.

The pupa, when mature, is nearly black in color, and has the
appearance illustrated (fig. 7, ¢). It measures about five-eighths of
an inch in length, ae the tips.

BIOLOGIC NOTES.

This species was briefly mentioned as having been found by the
writer in the larval condition on asparagus at Marshall Hall, Md.,
in October, 1896.c. At that time it
was impossible to ascertain whether
or not it bred from eggs deposited
on this plant, but later observations
conducted in company with Mr.
F. C. Pratt during the first and sec-
ond weeks of October show con-
clusively that such must be the case,
as larvee were found in the greatest
abundance on three large patches of
asparagus at Brookland, D. C.
They usually occurred singly, but
occasionally in pairs.

During the heat of the day, in
the moderately cool and seasonable
Indian summer weather usual at
Washington at that time of the

Tic. 7.—The striped garden caterpillar
year, many larve would be found (Mamestra legitima): a, Adult; B,

mies ; . larva from above; c, same from side;
stretched out upon dry sprigs of d, head of same from front: e,

asparagus, and in spite of their pupa. . All natural size except d,
bright colors they would easily have Ping eee ee
escaped the observation of anyone without experience in insect col-
lecting. The larva, in fact, furnishes a good example of protective
coloration. An individual would be in plain sight, and then if one’s
eyes were directed elsewhere for a moment it would sometimes be
difficult to find it again, although it might be within a foot of the
observer.

Larve obtained October 7 and later were kept fee ding on asparagus
in our rearing cages until the third week of October, when they de-
scended to the earth and soon afterw ards assumed the pupal condition.
The exact see of the assumption of the chrysalis form was not ascer-

@Bul. 10, n. s., Diy. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 60.

30 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

tained, but it was about the 21st of October, which would give a
period for the pupa of ten months, as the moths of this lot began
issuing August 21.4

One individual transformed to pupa October 17 and the imago
issued August 24 of the following year.

October 15, 1898, the larva was brought to the writer by Mr. P. H.
Dorsett, from his greenhouse at Garrett Park, Md., where the species
was feeding on the foliage of violet. The same year, November 3,
this larva was found rather abundantly by Doctor Howard in tobacco
fields in southern Virginia, near the North Carolina border line, upon
the leaves, which in some cases were badly ragged.” The first moths
issued in July.

During 1900 and 1901 correspondence was had in regard to this
caterpillar with Mr. H. Walter McWilliams, Griffin, Ga., who sent
specimens, as also larvee of the s6-called cotton cutworm (Prodenia
ornithogalli Guen.), with which the insect was ‘associated in both
years. The caterpillars were noticed there in greatest numbers during
November, and both species were reported as destroying a number of
garden crops, among which were cabbage, collards, turnip, ruta-baga,
rape, peas and related plants, as also some other vegetables. Mature
larvee were seen as late as the last week of November.

Among other office records are two which also have a bearing on
the biology of this species. One of these was made by Mr. Theo.
Pergande, who found the larve in the District of Columbia feeding
on blackberry and on flowers of a goldenrod (Solidago sp.). The
other is a short note by Mr. F. M. Webster upon the rearing of the
moth in spring from the seed pods of milkweed (Asclepias incar-
nata), near Lafayette, Ind. ‘“ The larva appeared to subsist upon the
seeds, the pods being attached unopened to the wrecked plant.” ¢

October 21 the larva was found at Washington, D. C. We have no
further records in regard to the habits of this species other than the
capture of moths in the District of Columbia July 25, August 22 and
25, and September 2, and there are specimens also in the U. S.
National Museum from Lewis County, N. Y., July 4, collected by
O. Meske, and others from New Jersey without definite locality. The
species is also said to occur at Portland, Oregon. It is interesting to
note that among these specimens are inflated larvee and mounted
heads labeled “ pretty cutworm,” which might be termed a manu-

aThe rearing jar was kept under somewhat unnatural conditions, at times
too warm and dry, but the effect of one condition might have been counteracted
by another, and the date of issuance of the adults was not far from that which
would be assumed in nature—more likely earlier than otherwise.

b Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. for 1898, p. 142.

¢ Insect Life, Vol. II, p. 882, 1890.

THE STRIPED GARDEN CATERPILLAR. 31

script name, as I do not find this insect mentioned under this cogno-
men in print. With present knowledge of the species it can not
properly be classified as a cutworm.

Among the files of the Department of Agriculture there are a few
notes which are of interest as showing the cycle of periods from egg
to about the last stage of the larva. These notes were made in 1882
by Mr. Albert Koebele, and the mounts which were made with them
are not sufficiently fresh for description. From these notes the fol-
lowing is taken :

Moths collected at sirup, near the District of Columbia, Septem-
ber 16, were placed in a rearing jar with grass, where two batches
of eggs were laid between 11 and 12 o’clock at night, one of these
being deposited around the stem of grass.

September 18 the eggs hatched, showing the egg period to be only
2 days. On the 21st the larve had completed the first molt, making
the first larval instar 3 days. September 23 the second molt was
observed, which gives 2 days as the second larval instar. September
27 larve changed their third skin, leaving 5 days as the period of
the third instar.

October 1 the fourth molt occurred, making 4 days for the fourth
instar. By October 9 all the larvee had changed the fifth skin, when
they developed cannibalistic tendencies and were removed to a larger
jar. The period of this instar was 8 days. The remaining larve
refused to eat and finally died, so that the complete life cycle could
not be ascertained.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

Soon after bringing larve in from the field some were noticed to
be dying from fungous attack. In the asparagus fields /’stigmene
(Leucarctia) acrwa Dru, and Dissosteira carolina L., the salt-marsh
caterpillar and Carolina locust, respectively, were also dying in con-
siderable numbers, and it was conjectured that the disease might have
originated with these and spread to the Mamestras. After the dis-
eased caterpillars had been frequently removed, however, the fungous
attack abated. Specimens of infected larvee were referred to the
Bureau of Plant Industry, and the fungus was identified by Mrs.
Flora W. Patterson, assistant pathologist, as an undescribed species
of Verticillium. At another time larve which showed signs of dis-
ease after capture were examined by Mrs. Patterson, who recognized
the presence of the fungus Sporotrichum minimum Speg. <A larva,
when placed with diseased insects, including some of its own species,
did not contract the fungous disease, from which it seems probable
that the disease is not readily communicable, and hence of no use as a
possible means of destroying this species.

32 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
SUMMARY OF HABITS.

From present knowledge of the caterpillar two generations annually
are indicated, although only one has been observed. Moths have been
reared by the writer in July and August and they have been captured
out of doors during the same months and in September. From
available data it would appear that an average life history would be
sbout as follows: Egg period, 3 to 5 days; first larval instar, 3 days;
second larval instar, 2 days; third, 5 days; fourth, 4 days; fifth,
8 days, and pupal stage, 7 to 10 months. Hibernation occurs in the
pupal stage.

The observed food plants include asparagus, cabbage, collards,
turnip, ruta-baga, rape, peas and related plants, greenhouse violet,
tobacco, grass, and blackberry. Of wild plants, golden-rod and
milkweed have been observed, the larva attacking the flowers of
the former and the seed pods of the latter.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Although the early habits of this species as it occurs in the field
have not been observed, there is no doubt that, like the zebra cater-
pillar, the young when first hatched are gregarious for some time,
and hence may be easily discovered and destroyed by mechanical
means or by arsenicals. All of the caterpillars of this class readily
succumb to arsenical poisons, and for this species in its occurrence on
asparagus and some other plants arsenate of lead is to be preferred.
It may be used at the rate of about 1 pound combined with 15 to 25
gallons of water or Bordeaux mixture. If an adhesive resin soap,
such as resin fish-oil soap, is added, it makes this mixture all the
more permanent, and a single application is then all that is necessary.
Paris green may be used in the same manner at the rate of 1 pound
to 100 or 150 gallons of water. It is evident that this species, like
the zebra caterpillar, does no particular harm as a rule in its first
generation, but is much more abundant in the second or late fall gen-
eration, when certain plants are injured by it. Owing to the diffi-
culty of locating the larger larve, it is evident that hand-picking
would not be applicable for them in their later stages.

U. S. D. A., B. B. Bul. 66, Part IV. Issued January 27, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET AND THEIR RELATION
TO THE ‘‘CURLY-LEAF ”’ CONDITION.

By HDs BA eh. Ds
Special Field Agent.

INTRODUCTION.

Ever since the introduction of the sugar beet into the intermountain
region more or less loss has resulted each season from a condition
called “ curly-leaf,” or “blight.” (See Pl. I, fig. 1, 7; Pls. I, IT;
Pl. IV, fig. 1.) Around Grand Junction, Colo., the beet growers
have suffered frequent losses from this source. Supt. George Austin,
of the Utah Sugar Company, reported a serious loss around Lehi,
Utah, in 1897. In 1903 the beet crop in Sevier County, Utah, was
somewhat injured, the next year the damage was worse and more
widespread, while in 1905 it extended throughout the State of Utah
and the adjoining portions of Colorado and Idaho.

Until 1905 the condition had been looked upon as a result of some
fungous or bacterial disease, or due to a soil or climatic condition.
During that season it was noticed for the first time that a leafhopper
(HLutettix tenella Baker) was present in large numbers in the fields
where this damage was the worst, and the writer, in connection with
his duties as entomologist of the Utah Agricultural Experiment Sta-
tion, commenced an investigation of the insect and its relation to the
damage. It was then too late to work out its life history, so most
attention was paid to a study of its relation to the “ curly-leaf ” condi-
tion and to experiments with remedies. This investigation was con-
tinued in 1906 and 1907, in cooperation with the Bureau of Entomol-
ogy, and the life history was worked out. Owing to the small num-
ber of insects appearing these two seasons, little more was done with
remedies, but many new facts were learned in regard to methods of
attack and the causes of the injury.

The writer’s attention was first called to the “curly-leaf” in
August, 1900, by Prof. F. H. Shaw, then chemist of the Grand Junc-
tion (Colo.) Sugar Factory. <A careful examination was made at
this time and again in succeeding years, but no explanation was found

33

34 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

for this condition. These examinations were, however, always made
late in the season after the curly-leaf character had become general
and after the greater number of insects had disappeared. Examina-
tion of the beets always revealed a few specimens of H'utettia tenella
along with other leafhoppers and miscellaneous insects, but never in
sufficient number to cause suspicion.

Late in June, 1905, reports began to come in to the Utah experiment
station of the appearance of an insect in the beet fields of the southern
and central portions of the State, and on July 8 the writer, in com-
pany with Mr. George Austin, visited the fields around Lehi and there
found the beet leafhoppers, associated with smaller numbers of false
chinch bugs (Nysius) and leafhoppers of the genus Agallia, causing
serious damage to the young plants, especially in the late-planted
fields.

From the size of the beets and the number of the beet leafhoppers
present when first examined in 1905, the prediction was made that the
insects would not be able seriously to retard the further growth of the
beets. This prediction was based on the ordinary amount of damage
done by insects of sucking habits. That the number of insects found
would be able to injure or even seriously retard a very young’ beet
was recognized, but that the same number could have any appreciable
effect on large beets was contrary to all expectations based on a knowl-
edge of similar attacks by Nysius, Agallia, and other sucking insects.

The trouble soon afterwards appeared in the Cache Valley, Utah,
and was under observation there throughout the remainder of the sea-
son, while several trips were made to various parts of the State.
Wherever it appeared it gradually grew worse, and although the year
1905 started with everything favorable in the early season, the Utah
beet crop fell below the average about 75,000 tons. This, however, did
not anywhere represent the entire loss, as both sugar content and
purity of the beets harvested fell far below the average, entailing fur-
ther loss to the sugar companies and bringing the total to more than
half a millon dollars.

In Sanpete and Sevier counties, in the southern part of Utah, a
large part of the acreage was abandoned early in the season, while the
rest barely paid the expense of harvesting. In Utah County the crop
varied from a total loss on a few late fields to a full crop, with an
average of more than a half crop harvested. In the Cache Valley, in
the northern part of the State, the loss was about one-third in tonnage,
and in Weber and Boxelder counties less than that.

In 1906 a very small number of leafhoppers appeared, and, as the
season was cool, even where they were most abundant little damage
vas done. A careful study was made of the life history and distribu-
tion of the species, and a number of tests were made of its injury to
the beets.

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

PLATE lI.

LEAFHOPPERS (EUTETTIX SPP.) AND THEIR WORK.

Fig. 1.—Eutettix tenella: a, Adult: b, nymph; ¢, wing: d, ¢
enlarged); g, section of beet stem, showing fresh egg
eggs ready to hatch; 7, old egg-sears on beet stems; 7, small leaf of sugar beet. show-
ing characteristic ‘‘curly-leat”’ condition; k, enlarged section of back of an extreme
case of “ curly-leaf,” showing “warty” condition of veins. Fig. 2.—Eutettix strobi:
a, Work of nymphs on lambsquarters: b, work of nymphs on sugar beet. Fig. 3.—
Hutettix scitula: Adult. Fig. 4.— Eutettix clarivida: a, Wing: b, head and pronotum;
c,d, genitalia. Fig. 5.—Eutettix nigridorsum: Work of nymphs on leaf of Helianthus.
Fig. 6.—Eutettix straminea: Work of nymphs on leaf of another Helianthus.
7.—Eutettic insana: Wing. Fig. 8.—Eutettix stricta: a. b, Genitalia,
trations. )

, genitalia; f, eggs (greatly
S in place; h, same, showing

Fig.

(Author's illus-

nino fee ie

re

a

“*

Pe

pe et BO

or
Tima

al

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 35
THE BEET LEAFHOPPER.
(Hutettix tenella Baker.)
DESCRIPTIVE.

The adult (P1. I, fig. 1, a) is a small, pale yellowish-green species,
little larger than an Empoasca or Typhlocyba, with which it might
easily be confused in the field were it not for the stouter build and
greater activity. When fresh or when flying this leafhopper appears
almost white, and for this reason it has often been called the “ white
iy. (wine, PLY. fie. loc; genitalia, Pl. I, fig. 1, d,.e.)

The eggs (Pl. I, fig. 1, 7) are white, elongate, slightly curved and
tapering at one end, and are thrust into the leaf stem in a shghtly
downward direction. At first they are scarcely visible (Pl. I, fig.
1, 7), but as the stem grows they are pushed out with the opening up
of the injured spot until at hatching time they are often half free
(Pl. I, fig. 1,2). After the eggs hatch, the egg scars continue to en-
large and remain throughout the season as irregular, elongate, crater-
like swellings (PI. I, fig. 1,7). The eggs are deposited on all parts of
the leaf stem, usually one in a place. In the cages they were often
placed close together, very likely in this case by different insects,
however, and a number were inserted into the midrib and secondary
veinlets of the leaf and a few into the leaf margin near the base.

The nymphs (Pl. I, fig. 1, 6) are very active, pale creamy white or
variously colored forms. The commonest form is pale creamy in
color with a brown saddle on the middle of the abdomen and various
mottlings on the prothorax and wing-pads. Some have the same pat-
tern with a reddish ground color, more are creamy yellow, and oceca-
sionally one is seen with a broad and somewhat irregular dark stripe
down the back. When small the nymphs will be found most com-
monly down in the unfolding leaves at the center of the beet, but as
they grow older they spread out over the plant.

FOOD PLANTS.

The original food plant of this species is still in doubt. In the
spring it was found on greasewood (Sarcobatus), sea-blite (Dondia),
several species of Atriplex, Russian thistle, and rarely on other plants
of these two families occurring on the waste land. As these places
dried up, most of the leafhoppers went to the sugar beets in the areas
under observation. In one case, however, the species was found in
some numbers on greasewood during egg-laying time, which would
suggest this plant as its original host. Its known distribution is all
within the area in which this plant is abundant.

36 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
DISTRIBUTION.

This leafhopper is apparently a native of the southwestern part
of the United States. It has been collected from about the region
of Denver, Colo., south along the edge of the mountains, through
New Mexico, and west through Arizona, Utah, and southern Idaho
to the coast in California and Oregon. Though confined to the
mountain region, its distribution is restricted to the lower levels,
and it is never taken on the mountains themselves. From this region
it has not spread very far up to the present time. It was taken at
Fort Collins and Lamar, Colo., in 1901—in one case 100 miles north
of its known habitat, on wild plants, and in the other an equal dis-
tance east, but was rare in both situations. In Utah it has spread to
the northern line of the State and into Idaho as far as that par-
ticular beet area has been extended, while it has not as yet been taken
from the wild plants north of Ogden, Utah.

LIFE-HISTORY STUDIES.

Search was made for this species as soon as the growing season
commenced in the spring of 1906, but no specimens were discovered
in the Cache Valley, Utah, up to the time the beets came up. A
trip to Sevier County, Utah, at the time the very earliest beets
were just showing (April 22) failed to disclose a single individual,
either in the beet fields or in waste places or hedgerows adjacent to
the beet-growing districts. The first specimens discovered this sea-
son were found at Thompsons, Utah, May 3, feeding on Russian
thistle, and a few days later the insect was found on the same plant
and on an annual saltbush (Atriplex) at Grand Junction, Colo.

Beet fields were examined at Grand Junction, Colo., May 8, and
in Utah at Lehi, May 9; Smithfield, May 12; Garland, May 18;
Lehi, May 17; Corinne and Penrose, May 22; and Provo and Lehi,
June 1, without finding a single leafhopper on any of them. The
beets were not up at Lehi on May 9, nor at Smithfield, but the fields
were examined carefully, especially where weeds were beginning to
appear. Fields at Logan, Utah, were under observation during all
this time and up to July 1, but no leafhoppers were found.

RECORD AT LEHI, UTAH.

On June 21 a field was examined at Lehi in which there was an
average of one or two leafhoppers to a beet. They were all adults
and two-thirds of them females. The beets in this field were from
6 to 10 inches across, and no sign of injury was observed. On exam-
ining the other fields in the valley a very much smaller number of
leafhoppers was found. Some fields had one individual to 10 beets,

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 37

while some had none at all. The average would not have been more
than one leafhopper to 25 beets. They were most numerous on the
higher, drier fields, and on the early beets. Two patches of very
late beets close to the first one visited had no leafhoppers at this time.

Eight females from this field were dissected, and fully developed
eggs were found in each one, 9 in one, 7 in another, and from 2 to 4
in each one of the others. Only large eggs could be seen with the
lens used, and probably some of these were crushed while being re-
moved. The fact that all females had fully developed eggs and that
there were more females than males indicated that these adults had
been out a long time and were not new ones of a brood that had just
flown in from surrounding wild land.

On June 29 a few were found in the late beets, but no nymphs were
found anywhere.

July 10 the adults were present in about the same numbers as be-
fore, the females still containing eggs, and a few very small nymphs
were found.

July 23 the adults were slightly less numerous, and the nymphs
from small to one-third grown and quite abundant. A few of them
were nearly grown, but no fresh males could be found. More
nymphs were found on the’ early beets, more “curly leaf” on the
late ones.

August 3 the nymphs were mostly about two-thirds grown, some
were small, and some full-grown. Large numbers of adults of the
new brood were out, about half of the leafhoppers being adult at this
time.

August 14 the adults were abundant. The leafhoppers were nearly
all adults or large nymphs, but a few small nymphs were still to be
found.

On August 29 the insects were mostly adult, males being still in
the majority, but there was still quite a number of full-grown
nymphs. Many females were dissected and a few found that had
from 4 to 7 large eggs, but the rest had no sign of any. These few
were probably the last remnant ef the over-wintered brood of females.

September 12 the adults were still common and more males than
females were taken by sweeping. Large nymphs were still present
in small numbers. Ten females were dissected, but no eggs found,
and the abdomens were all small. Evidently there was to be no egg
laying for some time, probably not that season.

Norr.—The season opened unusually late at Lehi in 1906, and
these dates would be from one to two weeks late for an ordinary
season,

38 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK. CROPS.

RECORD AT MONROE, UTAH.

In Monroe, Sevier County, the season opened early, and the beets
were nearly all planted in April. An examination April 22, as men-
tioned above, failed to discover a single leafhopper.

On June 26, on a second visit, nearly all the beets were in fine
shape, with leaves touching in the rows, and only lacking a few
inches of touching across rows. The leafhoppers were present in
every patch, both adults and very small nymphs, and occasionally a
larger nymph was seen. Mr. Fred Gould, field superintendent, said
that he had observed the adults for some time. There were more leaf-
hoppers on the older patches than on the late planted ones, indicating
that they had migrated in before the younger beets were far enough
advanced to attract them.

On July 25 the leafhoppers had increased in numbers, averaging
from 10 to 20 to a beet on the earlier patches. Adult males were com-
mon, showing that the nymphs had commenced to change to adults
again. All stages of nymphs were still common, however.

On September 14 the numbers of leafhoppers were beginning to
decrease. Several countings gave an average of 7 males to 5 females
and 5 large nymphs. The dissection of a number of females showed
no eges developed as yet, and there seemed little doubt that they

would hibernate.
OTHER RECORDS IN UTAH.

A field belonging to a Mr. Irons at Moroni, Sanpete County, was
visited June 27, and an average of one leafhopper to every two beets
was found. Mr. Irons, who is a very careful observer, said that they
had been there for some time. A careful search was made for the
nymphs, but none was found. This was by far the worst infested
field in the county, the average being less than one insect to ten beets.

July 26 adults and nymphs were about equally common, and few of
either.

In the Cache Valley and the rest of the northern end of the State
the leafhoppers did not appear in sufficient numbers to enable one
to make any life-history notes. On this account all cage experiments
were transferred to Lehi.

CAGE EXPERIMENTS, LEHI, UTAH.

The field observations on life history were all checked by cage
experiments (Pl. IV, figs. 2,3). Cages 1 to 3 were failures, through
the adults escaping from the material used. Later a very fine silk
scrim was used and proved satisfactory for the life-history work, but
was too closely meshed to obtain normal temperature and moisture
conditions inside. All cages were run in pairs on similar beets, one
with insects and one without, as a check on the injury to the beet.

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 39

Cages 4 and 5 (glass globes upon beets about 8 inches in diam-
eter).—On July 10, 16 adult leafhoppers, 12 of which were females,
were introduced into cage 4. Previous dissections had shown that all
females were bearing eggs, and the presence of a very few small
nymphs in the field proved that the earliest ones began depositing
eggs some time before. It was therefore expected that some of the
females introduced would begin depositing at once.

On July 23 these cages were examined, and in the one containing
the leafhoppers the stems were found to be fairly covered with egg
sears. Two of the stems were removed and preserved, and found to
contain 161 eggs—not more than one-sixth of the total number pres-
ent. A number of females were seen in the cage, but no nymphs.

July 27 the stems showed still more egg scars, and there was quite
a number of small nymphs that had apparently been out several
days. The insects had been in the cage only seventeen days, so these
eggs must have hatched within thirteen to fifteen days from the time
of laying, under the conditions found in the cage. Another stem
was removed and preserved, and the rest left as before.

On August 3 another stem was removed. The eggs had almost
all hatched by this time. Some had dried up and a few were found
just ready to hatch. A few were sticking out of the stalk and looked
quite fresh, but were probably infertile. Some of the leaves had
wilted and died, and the remainder were literally alive with small
to half-grown nymphs, together with a few adults, no doubt the
remaining parents.

These half-grown nymphs were no doubt those hatched between
July 23 and 27, and would thus be between eight and eleven days
old, roughly indicating a nymphal period of between sixteen and
twenty-two days under these conditions.

On August 14 this cage was visited again, and the beet found dead
and dry. From appearances it had been dead several days. The
few leafhoppers that survived were adults and large nymphs. They
were so few in number that it was impossible to tell whether they
were the surviving parents or a new generation, so they were released.

Cages 6 and 7 (silk scrim 2 feet square).—On July 23, 18 nymphs
varying between one-third and two-thirds grown were introduced
into cage 6. These were intended to represent the larger ones found
in the field at that date.

On July 27 no adults could be seen.

On August 3 most of the nymphs had changed to adults. This
period of eleven days was, then, more than one-third and slightly
less than two-thirds of the nymphal period. This gives about the
same result as the test in cage 4.

Cages 8 and 9 (silk scrim with glass top).—On August 3, 40 leaf-
hoppers were introduced into cage 8; of these 23 were females,

55968°—Bull. 66—10——4

40 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

apparently all fresh, 10 were males, and 7 were large nymphs, the
aim being to get as many of the earliest ones of the maturing brood
as possible without introducing any belated ones of the parent brood.
By this method it was hoped to get the succeeding brood, if there
was to be one, as soon in the cages as it appeared in the field, and
thus establish a minimum time between broods.

On August 14 this cage was examined, and all leafhoppers seen
were adults. There were no signs of egg scars or of damage.

On August 30 but few leafhoppers could be seen, and no egg scars
or damage.

On September 12 the leafhoppers were almost all gone, and no eggs
had been laid, either in the cage or field, and dissection showed
that the females had no visible eggs in the abdomen up to date. It
was thought at this time that the adults would lay eggs in the fall
and then die. Accordingly a new lot was started, as shown below.

Cages 10 and 11 (large lantern globes)—On August 30, 30 leaf-
hoppers were introduced into No. 10, of which 12 were females. In
No. 11 one female and several males were introduced. On September
12 no egg scars could be found in either cage.

Cages 13 and 14 (silk scrim with a glass top).—On September 12,
20 leafhoppers, nearly all of which were females, were placed in
cage 15.

On October 20 the field of beets was harvested. The cages were
removed and the beets labeled and sent on for examination. Each
leaf and stem, and even the parts of the beet itself protruding from
the ground, were examined carefully, but no sign of any egg scars
could be found on these beets or on those from the previous cages.
Many of the leafhoppers were alive at the time the cages were re-
moved, and there seems to be no doubt that they must hibernate as

adults.
SUMMARY OF LIFE HISTORY.

By the time the beets were thinned the leafhoppers began to appear
in the fields and by the middle of June were well distributed. They
gradually increased in numbers for some time after this. Egg laying
began at Lehi, Utah, late in June and continued until late in August,
each female depositing about 80 eggs, the period of deposition ex-
tending through several weeks, the ark number of the eggs, how-
ever, being deposited in the ten flaws preceding the middle of July.
The nymphs appeared in small numbers by July 10, and were still to
be found in small numbers in September. <A great majority of them
emerged from the eggs the last ten days in July and changed to
adults some twenty cane later. The first adults appeared from these
nymphs the last of July and continued to increase in number through
August. The egg stage in the cage experiments was between thirteen
and fifteen days; the larval stage between sixteen and twenty-two
days.

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 4]

ECONOMIC RELATIONS.

The first fact observed in 1905 was that different fields were affected
very differently, and much time was spent in studying conditions in
an attempt to discover just what combination of factors was neces-
sary to produce the “ curly-leaf,” so fatal to the beets. Even in the
worst fields examined there would be here and there a beet that was
apparently untouched and growing as usual, while in the best fields
only here and there could an affected one be found.

As a result of the season’s observations there seemed to be little
question that the “ curly-leaf” condition was the result of the attack
of the leafhoppers combined with the effect of a very hot, early
season.

T many places it was noticed that along the edges of the fields
where the beets had any shade—such as would be furnished by
hedgerow, or even by a vigorous stand of sweet clover on a ditch
bank—there would be a marked difference for the first few rows.
In Sevier County, where many of even the early-planted fields were
abandoned and where the rest averaged from 2 to 4 tons per acre,
one field was seen that did not show much damage and yielded 12
tons per acre. This field had a block of tall poplar trees on the south
and a row of equally tall ones on the west side. In other places it
was observed that the fields that were the weediest had better beets
than those that had been well cultivated. Under ordinary condi-
tions the results in all these cases would have been just the reverse,
and the only explanation that seemed plausible was that the shade of
the trees and of the weeds kept the ground from becoming quite so
hot and thus allowed the beets to overcome the effects of the leaf-
hoppers. In ordinary practice the beets are not irrigated until they
have made considerable growth; thus the taproot is forced to de-
scend for water, and a long, symmetrical beet results, while if watered
too soon the beets are short and sprangly. In one place, in 1905, it
was found that the water had escaped from a ditch and irrigated one
corner of a field much earlier than it had been applied to the rest, and
this corner was the only place that was not seriously affected with the
“ curly-leaf.” In another place the water supply failed just as they
started to irrigate the field, and the remainder was not irrigated until
a week later. The difference in the amount of “ curly-leaf” on these
beets showed plainly to the end of the season just how far the early
water reached. At first these differences were attributed to the effect
of the early water on the beet itself, but on further investigation a
number of fields was found where subirrigation was depended upon
entirely and where, ordinarily, fine beets were raised. In these fields
the taproots of the beets were found to extend into a stratum of satu-
rated soil and yet the beets were badly affected and continued to grow

492, SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

worse throughout the season. The only explanation found for that
condition was that, while the beet had plenty of water, still the top
soil was dry and dusty, and the ground was as hot as in an ordinary
field, while in the fields that were irrigated early the evaporation from
the moist surface kept the temperature down until the beets were large
enough to shade the ground. This would also explain the fact that
everywhere in the State, except in Sevier County, the late beets were
affected much worse than the early ones. In other portions of the
State the early beets were large enough to shade the ground in the
rows by the time the hot weather and leafhoppers appeared. In
Sevier County, on the other hand, the hot, dry weather came on
earlier and the leafhoppers were so much more numerous that even the
earliest beets could not withstand their attack when exposed to the
full force of the sun.

The unusual numbers of the beet leafhopper were apparently
largely the result of a winter and spring favorable for the preserva-
tion of insect life, as almost all injurious insects were present in in-
creased numbers during that season (1905). The leafhoppers had,
however, evidently been increasing for several years and had even
before this reached destructive numbers in Sevier County, as the
beet growers there had been suffering increasingly from what they
called “ blight ” for two years previous to this, and this increase in
the number of insects, followed by a winter favorable to their sur-
vival, resulted in the outbreak of 1905.

The leafhoppers were present in every field examined in Utah that
season, and occurred in the greatest abundance in the areas in which
the “ curly-leaf” was worst. The average number of adults of the
over-wintered brood to a beet varied from 3 or 4 up to 10 or 15, and
probably even more than that in Sevier County, judging from the
number found there later. No serious damage was done where there
were only the smaller numbers, and even where the damage was worst
it seemed to depend more upon how early they appeared and the tem-
perature and moisture of the locality at that time than on the actual
number above an average of possibly 5 or 6 to a beet. In 1906 they
appeared in very small numbers. The field at Lehi, Utah, where the
experiments were conducted, was by far the worst found, and here
they averaged only about 1 or 2 to a beet, while the average of the
valley would not have been more than 1 to every ten or fifteen beets,
and the average of the State was even less.

A field in Boxelder County, Utah, was examined in August, 1905,
in which the leafhoppers had recently appeared in large numbers,
averaging 100 or even 200 in some places to the beet. The beets were
large enough then to shade the ground, and the field was well irri-
gated from that time on. Almost no curling of the leaves could be

-

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 43

found in this field, and in the fall the yield was nearly up to the
average. This was the only field examined in which the leafhoppers
did not appear until after the adults had hatched out. On the other
hand, many fields were examined in which the leafhoppers had been
present early in the season but had almost disappeared after the
nymphs had matured, and yet in these fields the curling continued
to develop throughout the season and the beets grew worse instead of
recovering.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion was tried on a field in the Cache
Valley, Utah, in 1905. This field contained numerous adults and
nymphs in all stages. Four nozzles were used, each one set about 18
inches above the row and pointing obliquely down and forward, and
just in front of them a bar drew the beet tops over and caused the
leafhoppers to jump just as the spray struck them. An emulsion
diluted with 15 parts of water had little effect on the adults, and
only killed a few of the smaller nymphs. Most of the nymphs would
kick about on the ground and some would become quite still, but a
little later most of them would recover and hop away. An emulsion
diluted with 8 parts of water produced the same effect on the adults
that the weaker dilution did upon the nymphs, and killed the ma-
jority of the nymphs that it struck. Many of the latter would, how-
ever, escape the spray on account of the broad leaves of the beet, and
the results were not considered entirely satisfactory.

In the cage experiments it was expected that the number of leaf-
hoppers necessary to cause “curly-leaf” on different-sized beets
would be ascertained, but owing to the fineness of the gauze neces-
sary to hold them the temperature and moisture could not be con-
trolled and no “ curly-leaf ” was produced.* | The damp conditions of
the cages also made it difficult to keep the insects for any length of
time.

In one experiment 16 leafhoppers, 12 of which were females ready
to deposit eggs, were placed on a beet with a top 8 inches in diameter

@This manuscript was originally prepared and submitted at the close of the
season of 1906. Some revision was made to include the important facts of the
work of 1907, but the main discussions, including the above paragraph, were
written in 1906. Since that writing “ curly-leaf”’ has appeared in cages arranged
by Prof. E. G. Titus in joint investigations with the writer. Mr. H. B. Shaw,
assistant to Dr. C, O. Townsend, in charge of Sugar Beet Investigations, Bureau
of Plant Industry, U. 8S. Department of Agriculture, has also succeeded in pro-
ducing “ curly-leaf ” under experimental conditions. He writes me under date of
October 25, 1908, that curly top or ‘“ curly-leaf”’ appeared in the cages on the
experimental plat at Garland, Utah, in which he introduced the beet leaf-
hoppers, and that later he sent a number of leafhoppers to the office of Sugar
Beet Investigations, Bureau of Plant Industry, where 6 of them were placed in
a cage with 11 young beets, 9 of which showed distinct symptoms of “ curly-
leaf” within five weeks after the insects were introduced.

44 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

and consisting of a dozen or more leaves. Over another beet of the
same size a check cage was placed. Seventeen days later the eggs
had just begun to hatch, and already the beet in the cage without any
hoppers was nearly twice the size of the first one. The beet on which
were the leafhoppers continued to grow for a week or more, then
practically stood still, and on the seventeenth day it was apparently
smalier than when examined five days before. Seven days later a
large number of nymphs had hatched out, the outer leaves were dead,
and the rest looking sickly; ten days later than this the cage was
examined again and the beet was dead and dry, while the beet in the
check cage had again doubled in size. Twelve leafhoppers and their
eggs stopped the growth of a beet in less than two weeks, and they,
together with their progeny, killed it in less than two weeks more.
The same number of adult specimens of Agallia, Nysius, or Empoasca
would scarcely have made an impression on a beet of that size.

CHARACTERISTICS OF ‘* CURLY-LEAF.”’

The first symptom of “ curly-leaf” or “blight” of the beet is a
thickening of all the smaller veinlets of the leaf, giving it a rough-
ened appearance on the underside. This is followed by a curling of
the edge (Pl. II, fig. 1) and a final rolling up of the leaf (PI. I, fig.
1,7, Pl. I, figs. 2,3; Pl. ITI, fig. 2), the upper surface always being
rolled in. As this progresses the small veinlets grow still larger and
more irregular, knotlke swellings appear at frequent intervals (PI.
IIT, fig. 2), and in extreme cases little nipplelike swellings appear,
extending to a height of nearly one-fourth of an inch (PI. I, fig. 1, 2).
This will be noticed first upon a medium-sized leaf, gradually
spreading to the younger ones, while at the same time the beet almost
stops growing and a large number of fibrous roots are sent out (PI.
II, fig. 1). These roots are not confined to two irregular lines as in
a healthy beet. The beet often continues in this way throughout the
season, 1n bad cases it shrivels and dies, while in a few instances there
is a partial recovery and a new set of leaves, though the sugar content
remains very low.

Many of the species of this genus of leafhoppers produce a
discoloration or distortion of the leaves of their food plant. This
appears to be of the same nature as the work of the gall-forming
species, and is a process little understood. The wrinkling and folding
of the leaves by some of the species is very similar in appearance to
the work of some gall-forming aphides. Some species also produce
a change in color similar to that produced in many galls.

In the case of Hutettia strobi (Pl. I, fig. 2 a, b) and £. scitula on
the Chenopodium or on the sugar beet and of /’. nigridorsum and F.
straminea (PI. I, fig.6) on the Helianthus the discoloration appears as

Bul. 66, Pt. lV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE Il.

WoRK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

* tenella, and one normal
**Curly-leaf’’ beets as

Fig. 1.—Three ‘‘curly-leaf’’ beets, the result of attack by
beet from the same field, showing difference in size. 3
seen inthe field. Fig. 4.—Normal beets from same field. (Original.)

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture. PLATE III.

WoRrK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

Fig. 1.—A large beet becoming ‘curly.’ Fig. 2.—Back of a leaf affected by “ curly-leaf,”’
showing ‘‘warty’’ conditicn and curled edges. (Original.)

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 45

soon as the little nymphs begin to feed, and this is soon followed by
the distortion of the leaf in a certain definite way in each case. That
this is not caused by the mechanical injury of the puncture or due
alone to the loss of sap seems to be abundantly proved by the fact
that the Chenopodium is often attacked by other sucking insects in
much larger numbers without producing either the red pigment or
the gall-like distortion. The fact that a certain characteristic color
and appearance are always produced by a given species, no matter
whether on a Chenopodium or on a sugar beet, and that the color and
form vary for the different species of the same genus even when
working on the same plant, would indicate that there is some definite
agency back of it all. It has also been noticed that in all this group
the greatest amount of damage is done in hot, dry situations.
Whether or not the “ curly-leaf ” condition is entirely the result of
the change in the beet caused by the attack of the beet leafhoepper is
still an open question, but that there is some relationship between the
leafhopper attack and the “ curly-leaf ” does not seem to admit of a
doubt in the light of the facts brought out in the investigations. The
amount of damage in a given valley was directly proportional to the
number of leafhoppers present, the injury appeared only after the
appearance of the leafhoppers, and the “ curly-leaf” condition is
known to occur only on beets growing within the range of this insect.
Attention was not called to the damage early enough in 1905 to
ascertain whether or not the “ curly-leaf” appeared before the first
appearance of the nymphs. At Lehi, Utah, the “ curly-leaf” ap-
peared very soon after the first nymphs. In the Cache Valley, Utah,
the nymphs were common by the time the first curling was noticed.
In 1906 very careful watch was kept in all parts of the State for the
very first sign of leaf-curl, and in no case did it appear (except on the
mother beets) until after the nymphs began to hatch out. In fact, in
almost every case examined the cast skins of nymphs could be found
on the back of curled leaves, while on healthy beets these were very
seldom found. In all observations of both years more leafhoppers
were found on the curled beets than on others. At first this was
thought to show a gregarious habit in the adult, but it may be due to
the fact that a given female lays most of her eggs on a single plant
and the nymphs tend to remain there. In Lutettix strobi and the
other leaf-curling forms, where the nymphs are brightly colored and
depend on their discolored spots for protection, it is not unusual for
a given nymph to pass its whole life on a single leaf, or on two or
three adjoining ones; in most cases but a single nymph will be found
on a plant, and sometimes the adult and the nymphal skin of each
stage may be found under a single leaf. It is very likely that the
same habit persists in Hutettiv tenella and that this fact, in part at

46 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

least, accounts for one beet being badly affected while the adjacent
ones are unharmed. In the case of Hutettiv strobi and its allies,
where most of the leaves of a small plant are affected by the dis-
tortion, the plant usually shrivels up and dies, but where only one or
two leaves on a large plant are distorted the plant does not appear
to be affected at all, and in no case does the color appear in any of
the new leaves. In several cases small beets have been seen in which
every leaf has been deformed by the work of stvobz, and they had
apparently stopped growing.

In the case of the “ curly-leaf,”’ however, the abnormal condition
apparently spreads from leaf to leaf until finally the whole plant is
affected, even though the leafhoppers may have disappeared before
the process is complete. This was abundantly demonstrated by the
mother beets set out in the spring of 1906. These beets were selected
from the best-looking beets of 1905, and would naturally have been
ones that showed little or no effect of the “ curly-leaf” the season
before. In every case observed the first leaves sent up by these beets
were as curly as the average of the year before, and most of them
formed stunted lettucelike heads, and later withered and died. Some,
however, survived through the season, and a few sent up stunted blos-
som stalks, but as a seed crop they were an entire failure. This curl-
ing took place before any leafhoppers were found in the beets, and
in rows adjoining young beets that were not at all affected and did
not become affected during the season. This would indicate that the
agency, whatever it may be, that causes “ curly-leaf ” remained in the
beet itself over winter and was transmitted to the first leaves in the
spring.

Tn early September, 1907, the sugar-beet region around Spreckels,
Cal., was visited by the writer and a number of cases of what was
commonly called “ blight ” or “ curly-leaf” were examined. These,
however, proved to be quite different in character from the “ curly-
leaf” condition caused by Hutettiv tenella. The leaves of the beet
were found to be covered with pale spots, the edges were turned down
instead of up, and the whole appearance was quite different. A care-
ful search was made over many acres for specimens of tenella, but
none was found; instead a species of Empoasca was always found
associated with this appearance of the beets. The matter will be dis-
cussed further in connection with that species (p. 51).

OTHER RECORDS,

Prof. E. G. Titus reports that on a trip through the sugar-beet
regions of the West in September, 1904, he found Hutettia tenella
at La Grande and Echo, Oreg. At La Grande little damage was done,
while at Echo one field of 10 acres was so seriously injured by what

Bul. 66, Pt. IV, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture PLATE IV.

WORK OF EUTETTIX TENELLA ON SUGAR BEET.

Fig. 1.—A field of beets destroyed by ‘‘curly-leaf.”’ Figs. 2, 3.—Cages used in the life history
experiments. (Original.)

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 47

was then called “blight ” that it was not harvested. Many of the
beets had died and the rest were small and stunted, while the leaf-
hoppers could be swept up in numbers.

In California “ curly-leaf ” conditions were seen by Professor Titus
at Oxnard and Spreckels and reported to be quite serious on the higher
lands back of Salinas. Whether this was the true “ curly-leaf ” or the
type found there this year was not determined.

In August, 1907, another trip was made by him through the same
territory and a few specimens of Hutettix tenella taken at Payette,
Idaho. Little damage was being done that season, but field men re-
ported considerable loss in 1905 in both Payette and Blackfoot, Idaho.
A few EF. tenella were taken at Union, Oreg., and Echo, Uae, in
August, 1907, only shght damage showing in either place. Large
nymphs were taken with the adults.

In California a number of places were visited by Professor Titus in
August, 1907, but no specimens of Eutettix taken. In September
another trip through the California districts was made, and a few
specimens of /. tenella were taken at Chino on the 13th. No very
definite cases of “ curly-leaf ” were noticed.

ECONOMIC SUMMARY AND PROPOSED REMEDIES.

The “ curly-leaf” condition or “ blight ” of the sugar beet, as it
occurs in Utah and the surrounding region, appears soon after an
attack of the beet leafhopper (/utettix tenella Baker). Its severity
is conditional upon the number of insects present, upon the time of
their appearance, upon the size of the beets, and upon the temperature
of the surface soil, together with the temperature and moisture of
the surrounding air.

More should be known about the places of hibernation and early
spring history of this insect. It could not be found in the rubbish
around the fields in early spring, and only a few specimens were found
in waste places up to the time they appeared on the beets. When once
the place where the greater number of them pass the winter is discoy-
ered, it may be possible to destroy them there or on their spring food
plants before they migrate to the beets. After they have appeared
on the beets it will be necessary to be very prompt in the matter of
remedies if the injury is to be prevented. A thorough spraying with
kerosene emulsion at a strength of 1 part of the stock solution to 5
parts of water would destroy most of the insects that it hit, and by
using a drag in front of the nozzles to turn the leaves over and cause
the insects to jump, most of them could be reached. Where the insects

“Yor directions regarding the preparation and use of kerosene emulsion see
Farmers’ Bulletin 127, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture, pp. 20-21, and Circular 80,
Bureau of Entomology

48 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

were coming in in numbers this spray would need to be followed by a
second one 10 days later.

Several mechanical devices have been used to catch different leaf-
hoppers, and no doubt several of these could be used against this insect
with advantage. The tar pan, or “ hopper-dozer,” drawn over the
beets two or three times in the first few weeks would capture a large
number of them. The females, before the eggs are laid, are quite
heavy and do not jump or fly as readily as the males and would be
easily caught. A modified form of this machine, consisting of a
couple of tarred wings to be drawn along on each side of a row of
beets, while a drag agitated the tops and caused the insects to fly,
would probably capture more than the simpler tar-pan.

If the insects appeared while the beets were quite small, they could
be largely destroyed by rolling when the weather was cold or damp
and the insects sluggish.

A number of preventive measures may be used to assist the beets
in withstanding the attack of the leafhoppers. In some sections early
planting will produce beets large enough to shade the ground by the
time the beet leafhoppers appear, and thus reduce the temperature
below the danger line. In a few places, like the Grand Junction dis-
trict in Colorado and Sevier County in Utah, early planting alone
would not avail, as the insects appear soon after the earhest beets
come through the ground. For such sections early and frequent irri-
gations would assist in keeping the ground cool until the beets grew
large enough to shade it and thus take care of themselves.

All preventive measures will depend for success upon some method
of controlling the temperature in the field so that the ground may not
be hot and dry at the time the leafhoppers appear.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES.

1895. GILLETTE, C. P., and C. F. Bakrer.—A preliminary list of the Hemiptera
of Colorado.<Bul. 31, Colo. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 100.
On sugar beets in Colorado. Mention as Thamnotettix tenellus Uhl. MSS.
1896. BaxKer, C. F.—New Hemiptera. <Psyche, Vol. VII, Suppl., p. 24.
Species described from New Mexico as Thamnotettixr tenellus n. sp.
1900. Fores, S. A., and C. A. Hart.—The economic entomology of the sugar
beet. <Bul. 60, Ill. Agric. Exp. Sta., pp. 428, 523.
On sugar beets in Colorado. Mention as Hutettiv tenella Bak.
1903. CHrrreNDEN, F. H.—Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. f. 1902, p. 730, 1903.
Mention. ‘Reported as injurious to sugar beet in Arizona.”
1906. Howarp, L. O.—Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agric. f. 1905, p. 630, 1906.
Injury in Utah. Mention as Hutettia stricta Ball.
1907. Bart, E. D.—Report of the entomologist. <16th Rept. Utah Agric. Exp.
Sta., p. 16.
Character of injury and damages in 1905. Mention as Hutettix tenella Bak.
1907. Bayi, E. D.—The genus Eutettix. <Proc. Davenport Acad. Sci., Vol. VII,
pp. 27-94, Pls. I-IV.

A systematic and economic review of the group, with original illustrations.

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. 49
OTHER LEAFHOPPERS.

Seven species of leafhoppers of the genus Eutettix besides tenella
are known to have definite food plants related to the sugar beet, and
several more, the food plant of which is not known, will probably be
found to have similar habits. All of these species will no doubt be
found on the sugar beet as fast as its cultivation is extended into the
regions where these insects occur. The following species of Eutettix
are already known to occur on the beet, and are arranged in about
the order of their present importance.

Eutettix strobi Fitch—The nymphs of Futettix strobi are thickly
spotted with red, giving them a strongly reddish appearance. They
are found on Chenopodium album (PI. I, fig. 2, a) and are confined
strictly to the underside of the leaf. The attack produces a red dis-
coloration and a curling of the leaf, which serves as a double protec-
tion for the insect. There are two broods in a season, the nymphs
appearing in late May and early June and maturing from the middle
of June into July. The adults of this brood are common from the
middle of June through July. Nymphs appear again late in July,
from which adults appear late in August, and more commonly in
September. This species was carefully studied through the first brood
in 1906. Then the area under observation was pastured and the
record lost. The Colorado records agree with last year’s work for the
first brood, and furnish data for the second one. Prof. Herbert
Osborn @ first called attention to the red coloring of the leaves. It
has been noticed many times since. This is, no doubt, the Al/ygus sp.
of Bruner.” Forbes and Hart have mistaken the nymph for that of
Phlepsius irroratus Say... The larva of P. irroratus, however, is brown-
ish and fuscous and lives on the ground. Hutettix strobi has been found
on beets (PI. I, fig. 2,4) in a number of places in Colorado and Utah,
nearly all of them, however, around the margins of fields. In one
place the insects had appeared on the beets when they were quite
small, and had been numerous enough to deform every leaf on a
number of beets and entirely stop their growth.

Eutettiz scitula Ball (PI. I, fig. 3).—Futettix scitula is a white
species with a brown saddle and brown pronotum. The nymphs are
of a powdery pink color and live on the underside of the Cheno-
podium leaf in the same way that those of Hutettix strobi do, except
that the discolorations are lighter. This species is apparently
two-brooded. The first brood has been carefully worked out, but
only adults have been observed in the fall. The broods appear about
the same time as those of /. strobi. This is a western species occur-

4Science Vol. X, p. 166, 1887.
b Bul. 23, o. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agric., p. 17, 1891.
¢ Bul. 60, Ill. Agric. Exp. Sta., p. 424, 1900.

50 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

ring in Colorado and Utah and has been found on sugar beets only
at Grand Junction, Colo. The adults of the species are almost in-
variably found on poplar trees, and it seems probable that the eggs
are deposited on twigs of the trees and that the nymphs drop to the
ground to find a home on the Chenopodium. The adults of Hutettix
strobi and EF’. seminuda are often found on trees and may have the
same habit. In the case of /. strobt and LZ. scitula, nearly all in-
stances of bad infestation have been near trees. In the case of 7.
scitula these have been poplars, but two of the worst instances of
injury from £’. strobi were alongside apple trees.

Eutettixa seminuda Say.—Eutettiv seminuda is a white insect with
a brown saddle. It occurs from Kansas east to the Atlantic coast.
The nymphs are pale, with a brown saddle on the abdomen and some
brown on the thorax. Nothing is known as to their native food plant,
but from the close relationship to the preceding species it is lkely
that it will prove to be a Chenopodium. There are two broods in a
season, the first one appearing slightly earlier than in the case of /.
strobi. Eutettix seminuda has been reported on beets in Illinois. It
does not occur in the West, where the writer has worked on beets.

Eutettia clarivida Van Duzee (PI. I, fig. 4, a, 0, ¢, d).—_Futettio
clarivida is a green species with four black points on the margin of
the vertex. It occurs very commonly on the shad scale (Atriplex
confertifolia) and on one or two other species of the same genus in
the arid regions. It has been found on beets at Grand Junction, Colo.
The nymphs are green, with two black spots on the vertex. The life
history is not known.

Eutettix insana Ball (PL I, fig. 7), #. albida Ball, and E. pauper-
culata Ball occur on different species of Atriplex in the arid regions,
and may be expected to occur on the beets.

Eutettix stricta Ball (Pl. I, fig. 8, a, 6) is an Arizona species and
the nearest relative of /’. tenella that we know. There is probably
more danger from this than from any other species of the group,
if the sugar beet should be introduced within its range.

All the species of Agallia in a given section will be found attack-
ing the sugar beet more or less. Several of the species seem to be
almost omnivorous in food habits, but where they do show a pref-
erence it is for the relatives of the beet. For two of the species
(cinerea and bigeloviw) a definite food plant is known, and in both
cases they are close relatives of the beet. The species of Agallia are
divided into two groups, based on structural and life-history charac-
ters. In one group, which includes sanguinolenta, uhleri, cinerea, and
bigelovie, they seem to prefer warm and rather dry situations, the
adults hibernating and spreading over the beet fields in the spring in
time to lay their eggs and produce their single brood of young there.

LEAFHOPPERS OF THE SUGAR BEET. aa

Agallia sanguinolenta Prov. is the most abundant species of the ge-
nus in the western country and is found in all fields. Together with
A. whleri this species has been observed to do considerable damage in
the Arkansas Valley, in Colorado, and around Lehi, in Utah. The
nymphs appear early in June and mature in the last half of July and
the first half of August, a few running on through the month.

Agallia cinerea Osborn and Ball is found almost exclusively on the
“shad scale” of desert regions, and from this adults often fly
to near-by fields of beets. It was common at Grand Junction
and Loma, Colo., and at Monroe, Utah. Under the hot desert condi-
tions the nymphs appear in June and mature the last half of July,
while on the beets they do not mature until some time later.

Agallia bigeloviw Baker occurs in abundance on a tall species of
sea-blite (Dondia) growing on alkaline soil, and has been found in
the beet fields at Grand Junction and Palisades, Colo.

Agallia quadripunctata Prov. and A. novella Say belong to the
other group of the genus and pass the winter as partially grown
nymphs, which change to adults in late May and June. The nymphs
appear again in August and develop slowly until fall, when they
hibernate. These two species and A. sanguinolenta are discussed by
Osborn and Ball (Iowa Experiment Station Report for 1897, p. 112),
the nymphs and adults being figured and the life histories given. The
dates given there are, however, too early for western conditions.
This group thrives best in damp situations where rank vegetation
abounds, and will not do any serious damage to beets unless planted
alongside places of this character, from which the nymphs can mi-
grate in early spring. By the time the adults are mature and ready
to fly, the beets are well started and beyond their injury.

Empoasca sp.—A large number of adults of a small green H'm-
poasca were found on sugar beets at Spreckels, Cal., in early Septem-
ber by Prof. E. G. Titus and the writer. The beet crop was not
seriously injured, but a number of beets were found in which there
was a slight curling of the leaves resembling “ curly-leaf,” except that
in this case the edges of the leaf turned down rather than up, and
the surface of the leaf, instead of being roughened, was covered with
small pale spots. This pale spotting of the leaves is quite charac-
teristic of the injury of the Empoascas and their relatives and is com-
monly seen on apple and rose leaves. The insects were all adults at
this time, so that it was impossible to be certain that they had bred
on the beets, but from the appearance of the leaves it is probable that
they had. The nymphs of nearly all of this group are slender, pale-
greenish forms and are found mostly on the underside of the leaf,
while the white spots caused by their punctures show more plainly on
the upper surface.

52 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Professor Titus reports finding an Empoasca common on beets at
Chino, Cal., in August, 1907, and states that the beet leaves showed
the characteristic spotted appearance, but that no curling was noticed.
In his trip in 1904 Empoascas were noticed in several places in Cali-
fornia, and quite serious damage from “blight” or “ curly-leaf”
was found in a few places, but the particular nature of the injury
was not observed.

The Empoascas nearly all pass the winter as adults, hibernating in
rubbish and sheltered places near their food plants. In the spring
they feed on anything that offers until their food plants start, and
then they gather on them, laying eggs in early summer. The young
nymphs feed on the underside of the leaf and are quite active and
keep out of sight.

Spraying with kerosene emulsion, 1 part of the stock solution to 8
parts of water, proved to be a satisfactory remedy for an Empoasca
on potatoes in Iowa some years ago, and no doubt could be used on the
beets with success. Burning off rubbish around the field in the late
fall would probably reduce their numbers.

CONCLUSIONS IN REGARD TO “ CURLY-LEAF.”’

Asa result of the above investigations, it appears that there are at
least two distinct kinds of “ curly-leaf” that have been confused
under one name. One, in which the leaves become rough and warty
and curl up and in which the beet is stunted and does not recover ; the
other, in which the leaves remain smooth but show numerous pale
spots and in which the edges turn down, and in which, as far as known,
the injury is confined to the leaves attacked. The first-mentioned kind
of “ curly-leaf ” occurs from Grand Junction, Colo., west to the Pacific
coast and is the one that has been seriously injurious in the inter-
mountain region. This condition is brought about by the attack of
the beet leafhopper (/’utettix tenella), and will, no doubt, be confined,
for some time at least, to the southwestern part of the United States,
the native home of this insect. The second kind of * curly-leaf” has
been found in California quite commonly, and doubtless will be found
to occur sparingly at least in the eastern part of the United States, or
wherever an Empoasca attacks the sugar beet.

Besides these two types of this injury it is quite possible that in
rare cases other types with still other causes have been seen and not
recognized at the time as distinct. Investigations in the California
field have been so meager that it is impossible to say as yet which
type has caused the greatest injury. In the intermountain region,
where most of the work has been done, practically all the injury is
known to have been caused by the first type.

eS: DAL Bon: Bul. 66, Part V. Issued January 28, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM.

(Prodenia eridania Cram.)
By F. H. CHITTENDEN and H. M. RUSSELL.

INTRODUCTION.

During the summer of 1907 a smooth or hairless caterpillar (Pro-
denia eridania Cram.) related to the cotton cutworm came under the
observation of the junior author at Orlando, Fla. It was observed
attacking the foliage and, in many cases, the stems and fruits of all
forms of garden truck grown in that vicinity, the list mceluding
tomato, potato, sweet-potato, eggplant, pepper, okra, collards, and
cowpeas. The infestation was of considerable severity, and great in-
jury was done in fields and gardens in that and in some other regions
of Florida, notably at St. Augustine and on the west coast of the
Manatee River. What is believed to be the same species was reported
injurious in Porto Rico by Mr. W. V. Tower. Aside from a brief
notice which has been made of the present invasion there does not
appear to be any other record of the injurious habits of this species;
hence the following account has been prepared for publication by the
senior author. The chapters on recent injuries, natural enemies, and
experiments with remedies have been compiled from the junior au-
thor’s notes. The technical descriptions of the egg and larva have
been prepared by Dr. H. G. Dyar, while other assistance in the prep-
aration of this article is duly acknowledged in its proper place.

In ordinary seasons the species under consideration confines itself
largely to weeds, among which are the poke-weed, spiny amaranth
or careless weed of the South, and a wild Solanum. It has habits
different from those of the northern cutworms and can scarcely be
classified with the climbing cutworms, although it has the climbing
habit. It has a decided tendency to travel in armies like the army
worms and is practically confined to semitropical regions. It is
remarkable as being injurious throughout the warm season and breed-
ing continuously, there being evidently at least four generations a
year in nature.

=9
00

54 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The adult is a noctuid moth, and while the larva is quite readily
referable to the genus Prodenia, the moth has little of the appear-
ance of our other two North American species.“

The moth—The adult or moth has a wing expanse of nearly 14
inches (33-38™"); the fore-wings are dull gray, sprinkled and
dotted with brownish and black scales forming a pattern as shown
in figure 8, d. There is considerable variability in these markings,
some individuals having a strongly marked reniform spot, a very
prominent blackish posterior marginal line, and a similar black line

be Be, ss A
SY tecpsigsesal van Wiyaaor'”

Fic. 8.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) : a, Egg-mass on leaf; 5b,
egg, much enlarged, showing lateral view at right and top at left; ec, section of egg;
d, moth; e, dark form of larva nearly grown; f, g, larva, full-grown. a, d—g, En-
larged; b, highly magnified; c, more magnified. (Original.)

on the latero-posterior margin. Individuals also oceur in which
there is a straight, broad, jet-black dash or band beginning at the
middle of the fore-wing and extending to the lateral margin. This
is the nigrofascia of Hulst. The hind-wings are pearly white above,
this pearly luster being still stronger below. The body is brownish
gray and the antenne are yellowish brown.

The darkest forms of this species are marked very much as in the
genus Acronycta.

The eggs—The eggs are deposited in irregular masses, as shown
in figure 8, a, closely placed together, sometimes in two layers and

4 Prodenia ornithogalli Guen. (“cotton cutworm’’) and P. commelinw S. & A.

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 5D

covered with whitish down, from the body of the female. They are
distinetly green when first deposited and have the appearance illus-
trated at ) and c¢.

The larva—The caterpillar resembles that of the other two species
of Prodenia sufficiently to be naturally referred to that genus, and
it is subject to similar variation in color. The ground color is dark
grayish in pale individuals and nearly black in the dark forms.
These latter, especially when approaching maturity in the penulti-
mate stage, are sometimes so dark as to resemble Mamestra. The
body is ornamented with a narrow, slightly interrupted, median yel-
low longitudinal dorsal stripe, a similar slightly wider dorso-median
stripe, and a wide and brighter yellow substigmatal stripe, which
becomes obscured in the thoracic segments of the penultimate stage.
In the very dark forms the triangular velvety dorsal spots character-
istic of the genus can scarcely be seen, and in the paler forms they are
seldom as distinct as in the other two species. When full-grown the
larva measures about an inch and a fourth to an inch and a half in
length (25-37™™"), and the width varies from one-fourth of an inch
to a little larger. The head measures nearly 2.5™™.

The mature larva is illustrated at f and g of figure 8 and a dark
form nearly grown at e.

The pupa—tThe pupa resembles closely that of Prodenia comme-
line. The head and abdomen are well rounded. The color is
mahogany-brown, with the head, spiracles, and anterior edges of the
abdominal segments darker. The surface is smooth and shining,
with the anterior edges of the abdominal segments finely punctured.
The anal segment terminates in a two-spined cremaster-like process.
Length, 16-18 ™; width, 5-6™"; length of head to end of the wing-
cases, 10™™.

The following technical description of the egg and larval stages
was kindly contributed by Dr. H. G. Dyar.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE EGG AND LARVAL STAGES,

The egg.—Hemispherical, smooth, pale green, shining; ribs very fine,
obscure, numerous, ill-defined, radiating from the micropyle; cross-strize imper-
ceptible. Diameter, 0.6™™, Laid in a patch, covered by a thin layer of whitish
wool.

Stage I.—Head rounded, bilobed, mouth pointed, shining greenish-black ;
eyes black, mouth brown; width about 0.8™™, Body robust, uniform, joint 12
slightly enlarged, feet of joints 7 and § a little smaller than the others and not
used in walking; translucent greenish, cervical shield, leg plates, thoracic feet,
anal plate, and the large round tubercles shining black; tubercles i and ii of
joint 12 in a square; setz rather coarse, moderate, black, simple.

Stage IJ.—Head rounded, slightly bilobed, the vertex level with joint 2, shin-
ing luteous, blackish shaded over the vertices of the lobes; ocelli black, mouth
brown, width, 0.4™"™". Body somewhat thickened at joints 5 and 12, feet normal,
equal; greenish luteous, cervical shield and anal plate blackish infuscated ;

55968°—Bull. 66—10——5

56 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

tubercles rather large, low-conical, black; leg shields slightly smoky; tubercle
vi present; a large red blotch around tubercles i and iv on joints 5 and 12;
sete short, black, stiff; traces of a white dorsal line showing especially by the
cut between the red blotches at tubercle i of joint 5; no other lines.

Stage JJJ.—Head rounded, the vertex just within joint 3, pale reddish over
the lobes and sides, luteous on the face, shining, very small in proportion to the
body; width, 0.6"™. Body robust, slightly thickened at joint 5, more so at
joint 12; feet normal; pale green; a straight dorsal and a subdorsal white
line and traces of a broken lateral one; subventral region slightly pale, without
defined line; tubercles small, black; a large, vinous, somewhat elevated blotch
on tubercles i and ivy on joint 5 and on tubercle i on joint 12, more diffusely
about the spiracle on joints 11-12; anal feet reddish; cervical shield small,
infuscated, cut by three white lines; anal plate blackish; thoracic feet blackish,
abdominal ones greenish.

Stage I1V.—Head rounded, rather quadrate, not notched, the clypeus high,
vertex even with joint 2; pale red, paler on the clypeus, ocelli and antenne
dark; width 1.0™™. Body robust, thickened at joints 5 and 12, feet equal;
blackish olivaceous, dorsal and subdorsal lines straight, yellowish white, edged
with vinous dottings; traces of a lateral line; subventral region paler below
the spiracles, especially after joint 5; large blackish-red blotches at tubercles
i and iv on joint 5 and on joint 12 and tubercle i and stigmatally on joints 11-12;
white dotting in the ground color most conspicuous stigmatally; thoracic feet
black, abdominal ones pale, anal pair reddish.

Stage V.—Head quadrate, rounded, slightly bilobed, shining light red-brown,
the clypeus high; ocelli and sete black; width, 1.6™™". Body thickened at
joints 5 and 12, feet equal, normal, the abdominal ones pale, slightly infuscated,
the thoracic ones black-ringed; dark gray to black, strigose-dotted with white;
dorsal line narrow, subdorsal broader, straight, even, yellowish white, centered
with reddish mottlings, cutting the sooty-black cervical shield, but not the anal
plate; a quadrate black patch between the lines on joint 5, a small angular one
next the subdorsal line on all the other segments, large on joint 12 and shaded
across; a narrow white-dotted lateral line, scarcely different from the dots of
the ground color; subventral band straight, yellow-white, broad, broken at joint
5, reddish-filled around the spiracles, black spots at tubercles iii with a distinct
white dot below; subventral region of thorax blackish, of abdomen paler, white-
dotted.

Stage VI.—Head rounded, quadrate, about as high as wide, slightly bilobed,
the vertex level with joint 2; clypeus high and large; red-brown, darker
reticulate, mouth parts concolorous, ocelli black; width 2.1 to 24™™". Body
robust, cylindrical, tapering from joint 5 to joint 2, the head small; joint 5
slightly, joint 12 distinctly, enlarged and abruptly tapered to joint 18; black,
strigose-dotted with white; cervical shield deep black, white-dotted, cut by three
white lines; anal plate similar, small, cut by the dorsal line only; dorsal line
narrow, black-dotted and broken, yellowish white, reddish on the centers of the
segments; subdorsal line broader, straight, yellow-white, reddish centered on
the segments, with a median row of gray dots, but not incised on the margins;
a row of segmental black triangles above it, free of white dots, largest on joint
5, the one on joint 12 now scarcely larger than that on joint 11; upper half of
the lateral area grayer, with many white dots, lower half blacker, with few
dots on joints 5 to 13, separated by a row of brighter dots representing the
lateral line; on joints 2 to 5 this distinction is weakly developed; spiracles in a
blacker shade with a white dot above tubercle iv; substigmatal band broad,
even, undulate, weak and broadly gray, centered on joints 2 to 5, fading out at

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. Oe

joint 5, sharply reappearing at joint 5 posteriorly, then pale yellow, centered
with blackish mottlings at the centers of the segments and red above these;
subventral region black-shaded, strongly so on joints 2 to 5, weakly on the ab-
domen, white-dotted, paling to the venter; thoracic feet dark brown, the ab-
dominal ones pale brown, shining; a single cylindrical, round-tipped neck gland
reaching to the end of the labial palpi; crochets of abdominal feet in a single
row, dark; tubercle iv slightly above middle of spiracle on joint 7. [Harrison
G. Dyar.]
ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION.

This is a Lower Austral form and probably of tropical origin. In
the National Museum are specimens from Cocoanut Grove, Crescent
City, and Orlando, Fla. The species is also recorded from Talla-
hassee, and reported from St. Augustine and the region about the
Manatee River in Florida. From Texas we have specimens from Bos-
que County (Belfrage) and Dallas, and there are specimens col-
lected at Pernambuco, Benito Province, Brazil, by Mr. Albert Koebele.
Dr. J. B. Smith records the insect from Georgia and Central and
South America, and Grote records it from California. This indi-
cates a range extending from Brazil to Mexico, Central America, and
the Antilles, and from Florida westward through the Gulf region and
Texas to California.

LITERATURE AND HISTORY.

Considering the fact that this species is really common in the
South and that it feeds gregariously and voraciously, it is somewhat
remarkable that it has not hitherto attracted attention by its depre-
dations. The moth was described by Pierre Cramer in 1782.14
Tts natural food plants were known to Smith and Abbot, who wrote
of it in their classic work published in 1797.2 The illustration ac-
companying that work, though over-colored as usual, depicts a per-
fectly recognizable moth of this species but a too-brilliant and light-
colored larva. Light and dark forms of the moth are figured. The
species is mentioned as Phalena phytolacce and is compared witb the
related Prodenia commeline and Laphygma frugiperda, which form
the subject of the two plates and pages immediately preceding the
account of phytolacce.

As Smith and Abbot’s work is not accessible to many, the following
copy of their account of this insect is republished:

PHAL@UNA PHYTOLACCA. Poke-weed moth.

Phytolacca decandra. Linn. Virginian poke-weed.

Ph. Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis deflexis: primoribus fusco striatis
puncto obscuro margine postico nigro maculato; anteriori punctato.

@Numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numerals in the appended
bibliographical list (p. 70).

58 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Feeds on the Poke, Careless, &c. It went into the ground July the 5th, and
came out the 16th. I once met this caterpillar in such abundance, that among
a great quantity of Poke plants there was scarcely a single leaf untouched ;
most of these caterpillars, however, were fly-blown by a kind of Jchneumon.
The moth is rare.

This is allied to our Ph. frugiperda and Commeline. Between the under
wings of all these there is the greatest affinity. Their pupe too are of a
similar bright red color, and their smooth-striped caterpillars have much
resemblance to each other.

RECENT INJURIES AND BIOLOGIC NOTES.

On May 14, 1907, this species was observed on the leaves of tomato
in the truck garden of Mr. C. M. Berry, at Orlando, Fla., where it
was eating holes in the leaves. Numbers of plants, here and there,
were infested and in most cases the entire plant was injured. The
same larva was observed on pokeweed (Phytolacca decandra), and
afterwards on spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus). By May 20
the larve were scattering and had grown rapidly, some being an
inch long. While young, these larvee feed on the underside of the
leaf, but with larger growth some were noticed feeding on the upper
surface as well.

May 24 an egg-mass was found on a leaf of the spiny amaranth,
laid in two sections on the under surface, one on each side of the
midrib. One mass had hatched at this time and the larve were be-
ginning to eat pinlike holes through the leaf.

On July 3 a field of Irish potatoes was found to be very badly in-
fested by these larve. They were now nearly full-grown and had
stripped the potato vines, many being observed crawling away from
the field in all directions. On one side they infested a garden at
least 600 feet away, and were feeding upon eggplant, pepper, okra,
and castor-oil plants.

Some interesting notes were made on the abundance of this species
in this potato field. On a single young plant of Amaranthus, 41
larvee were counted, and as many as 314 on a plant measuring 6 feet
in height. A careful estimate of the larve on 10 plants of careless
weed, not over 6 feet in height, gave a total of 1,300 individuals.
(See fig. 9.)

To illustrate the voracity of these larvae, where any potatoes were
exposed, they were soon covered by the larve and the entire contents
eaten out so that they were rendered worthless in about ten minutes.
About this same date, July 3, the larve were reported making quick
work of amaranth; whenever a branch became broken from any
cause, larvee entered at the break and excavated tunnels several
inches in length. Pokeweed was entirely stripped of leaves, the’
stalks and the shoots being eaten off at the outer end. Potatoes dug

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 59

at this time were frequently found full of holes, the work of these
larve. The following day, July 4, the amaranth was almost com-
pletely denuded, illustrating the rapid work of this species when in
large numbers (see figs. 10, 11). By July 8 the larve had almost
completed their work in the field, after having eaten everything
clean. Many were full grown and had commenced to enter the
ground. July 9 the potato field was stripped, the vines were dead
and dry, and the larve had almost disappeared. The ground was
full of pupe, none of them at a greater depth than 4 inches, and in

Fic. 9.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) ; Work of larve on * careless
weed” in potato field ; 311 larve were on this plant when photographed. (Original.)

many cases only 2 inches. Upon digging into the hills, it was found
that they did not average more than four good-sized potatoes to the
hill, and in many cases these had been rendered useless by the inroads
of the larve. (This crop averaged small because of late planting.)

Many larve were found feeding on sweet potatoes at Mr. John M.
Cheney’s place at this time, most of them still in young stages. A
few fully matured larve also were found, showing the overlapping
of the two generations; in fact, observations conducted both in the

60 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

field and at the insectary at Washington, D. C., show that this
species is undoubtedly a continuous breeder, as in the case of the
variegated cutworm (Peridroma margaritosa Haw.), the larve being
present in the field throughout the long summer season of the South.

July 30, by request of the county commissioner, Mr. H. H. Dick-
son, the junior author went to the County Home and found a sweet-
potato patch badly infested, thousands of larve present, and the
leaves turning brown and drying out. Superintendent Harris stated
that an earlier brood did great damage to cowpeas, but this could
not be verified by specimens. In the sweet-potato field the larvee
started on the south side and, after stripping the first four or five
rows, moved over to the next rows and eventually infested the entire

Fic. 10.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) : Field of late Irish potatoes
showing vines entirely stripped by larve; Orlando, Fla., July 6, 1907. (Original.)

field. A Mr. Porter, near the County Home, reported 5 acres
stripped in three days after the larve were noticed at work, these
having started at one side of the field and swept it clean. The
larve of a third generation were observed at Mr. Cheney’s place at
this time; most of them, however, had already gone into the earth
to transform.

August 3, adults that had pupated about July 25 began to emerge.
Thus the pupal period occupied about nine days. At this time a
number of young larve were noted feeding upon amaranth, wild
Solanum, and castor-oil plants. When disturbed they dropped and
hung by threads.

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 61

By the first of September Mr. Cheney’s patch of sweet potatoes was
entirely free from this insect, evidently owing largely to parasites
and to the spraying with arsenate of lead.

August 30, 1907, Mr. Wm. Donnell, St. Augustine, Fla., reported
that a cutworm, which he identified as this species, had been very
destructive in that region, being especially abundant on beets, and

Fic. 11.—The semitropical army worm (Prodenia eridania) : Larve eating bark of “ care-
less weed; also nymph of Podisus maculiventris, predaceous on the larve. (Origi-
nal.)

later affecting cabbage, carrots (by eating the tops), and some other
plants, its operations being most noticeable at night.

Mr. E. L. Worsham, while employed by this Bureau, noticed this
species on the west coast, near the Manatee River, in Florida, and
reported it working quite extensively in that region in August.

On November 23, 1907, an egg-mass was found on pokeweed at
Dade City, Fla., and December 2 another was observed, from which

62 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the larva hatched December 4. These molted between December 10
and 13, while being transported to Orlando, but soon died, as frost
killed off the food plants.

July 25, 1908, Mr. H. H. Dickson asked for a remedy to apply
against the larve on sweet potatoes at the Orlando Truck Farm.

Egg-masses received May 24, 1907, hatched at that time and the
larve entered the earth in the rearing cage June 19. In dry sand the
pup were found at a considerable depth, but in moist sand they
were found barely under the surface.

July 8 larve in the rearing-cage were almost full grown. Larvee
hatching from egg-masses, and others a few days old, were also
found in abundance on sweet-potato plants. As soon as hatched
they separate, feeding on the leaf on which the egg-mass was laid,
perforating the underside full of minute holes, and leaving only the
upper epidermis, which turns brown. On growing larger they sep-
arate, as in the case of most caterpillars, except those of peculiarly
gregarious habit, and soon become widely scattered. Even when
abundant it is common to see eight or a dozen on the underside of a
single leaf, and frequently as many as an hundred. Occasionally a
nearly full-grown larva feeds on the upper side of a leaf. In many
cases large larvee were found hiding during the day at the bottom of
furrows.

June 15, 1908, the larve of this insect were found to be very abund-
ant at Orlando, Fla., in one part of the town feeding on pokeweed,
and in another on amaranth.

EARLY RECORDS.

Among the records of the Bureau of Entomology is one of May 22,
1887, when larve and pup were received from Mr. KE. A. Schwarz
with report that the species was very injurious to the eggplant at
Cocoanut Grove, Fla.

In September, 1905, Mr. F. C. Pratt sent to the Bureau a large
colony of the larvee found feeding on pokeweed at Dallas, Tex., the
moths from which began to issue September 26.

LIFE-CYCLE PERIODS AND GENERATIONS.

Larve mailed from Orlando, Fla., July 3, arrived at Washington,
D. C., July 5 and began to enter the earth for pupation the following
day. On the 16th two had transformed to pupa, on the day “ollow-
ing three more, and the remainder transformed within a week. This
experiment shows a pupal period of about 9 days, allowing 1 day for
the larve in the earth before pupating. The weather was quite hot.
In a cooler temperature in August the pupal period required 11 to
13 days.

The moths hatched from different lots were separated and the egg-
period observed. In one case this lasted from August 8 to 12, or

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 63

4 days, and in another case from July 18 to 22, or 4 days. In the
first instance the temperature averaged between 76° and 80° F. and
in the second from 80° to 88° F. Evidently this is the maximum
period.

As regards the duration of the entire life cycle, it was noticed that
eggs deposited July 3 produced caterpillars on the 9th, or in 6 days.
These penetrated the earth, being full-grown, on the 26th, making the
entire life period of the larve 17 days. They began to issue as moths
August 5. This gives a total period for the life cycle of 31 days for
extremely hot weather. In an ordinary outdoor summer tempera-
ture the period would be about 35 days, or 5 weeks.

Our rearing records are not quite as accurate as could be desired,
owing to unfortunate conditions at the insectary and to three changes
in the office force during the time when the insect was under observa-
tion. There were, however, positively four generations here, and
about the same number was observed at Orlando. There is also
the possibility of an earlier fifth generation in nature. The exact
periods for the appearance of these should be recorded in the field.

NATURAL ENEMIES.

The unusual abundance of this species at Orlando, Fla., during the
season of 1907 afforded a most excellent opportunity for the study
of its insect natural enemies. These came under observation as early
as May and were still abroad as late as August, appearing to increase
somewhat as the season advanced.

PARASITES.

The parasitic species observed were seven in number; the pre-
daceous enemies, six.

Ophion tityri Pack. (?)—Issued July 17-August 1.

Limnerium sp.—lIssued May 25-30.

Meteorus sp.—Issued July 11-August 2.

Chelonus sp.—Issued July 6, 1908.

Spilochalcis spp.—The Meteorus was attacked by two species of
secondary parasites of the family Chalcidide. These issued August
2 from the peculiar brown cocoons of the Meteorus.

Winthemia quadripustulata Fab., a moderate-sized tachina fly, is
also a parasite on the larva of this species. Adults issued August 8
but did not appear abundant. Of a lot of larve taken at random
from different portions of a field, upward of 50 per cent bore tachina-
fly eggs. Evidently a large percentage fail to hatch.

44 small fly was also observed feeding on the pup. It is Aphiocheta nigri-

ceps Loew, one of the Phorids, which comprises species of scavenging habits
and not parasitic.

64 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
PREDACEOUS ENEMIES.

Calosoma sayi Dej.—The larve of the carabid beetle Calosoma
sayi were observed in considerable numbers and were reared to adults.
They were first noticed July 6, when they were quite abundant in the
furrows between rows of sweet potato. They were found concealed
by the vines, feeding on the larve of the Prodenia, and after sucking
out the juices of one larva they immediately attacked another. The
adults issued in our rearing cages August 11.

Polistes annularis L.—The large brown wasp Polistes annularis
was observed July 2, flying quite commonly in sweet-potato fields.
One was watched which alighted on a leaf and began searching for
prey, after the custom of such wasps. The search was continued from
plant to plant and from leaf to leaf until a Prodenia larva was
located, when it was at once seized behind the head and chewed into a
shapeless mass. Other wasps of this species were also seen on fence
posts dragging Prodenia larve about with them.

It is interesting to note that Mr. F. F. Crevecoeur, Onaga, Kans.,
reports having seen this wasp being carried away by the asilid
robber-fly, Deromyia ternata Loew.

Stiretrus anchorago Fab., var. diana Fab.—The blue-and-red and
the uniformly blue forms of the soldier-bug Stiretrus anchorago,
which are common in Florida, were observed in numbers attacking
the Prodenia larvee in July.

Podisus maculiventris Say.—During July the spined soldier-bug
was seen preying upon the Prodenia larve. (See fig. 11.) In one
instance 18 nymphs were counted on a single amaranth plant infested
by the cutworm. The length of the life cycle of this species from
hatching (not from egg-laying) was determined to be 16 days in hot
July weather.

Apateticus (Hupodisus) mucronatus Uhl.—July 17, and again in
December, 1907, this pentatomid bug was observed preying on the
larva of this species of Prodenia at Orlando, Fla. It is considered a
rare species and this is probably the first observation which has been
made on its habits.

Owing to the obscurity of the host insect in the past, no records
can be found of any of these parasites or of other natural enemies
which affect it, but in Smith and Abbot’s work mention is made of a
species of “ Ichneumon ” which attacks the larva (see p. 58).

Pontia rape L.—July 22, 1907, the young larvee of the imported
cabbage worm, which had hatched out on cabbage used as food for
Prodenia eridania Cram. in our rearing cages at Washington, were

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 65

observed feeding on the eggs of the latter.. The cabbage worms were
between one-quarter and three-eighths of an inch in length at this

time.
A FUNGOUS DISEASE.

Empusa sp.—September 8, 1907, a few Prodenia caterpillars, which
were found dying of a fungous disease in our rearing cages, were
referred to the Bureau of Plant Industry for identification of the
fungus. Mrs. F. W. Patterson stated that it was a species of Empusa.

METHODS OF CONTROL.

The arsenical poisons are effective against this army worm under
ordinary conditions. Experiments performed at Orlando, Fla., how-
ever, brought out the fact that Paris green, on account of the frequent
‘ains which occur at the height of the principal outbreaks in the
infested regions of Florida, such as Orlando, is almost ineffective and
it is therefore necessary to use arsenate of lead. Owing to the
greater adhesiveness of the latter it remains on the plants when the
former is washed off.

Paris green, arsenate of lead, and a special preparation which may
be called adhesive copper arsenite, were tested, the last by request of
its inventor. It was used in experiments Nos. 8,10, and 11. <A barre]
sprayer, fitted with Vermorel nozzle, was used for a number of these
experiments, but for most of them a knapsack sprayer of fine quality
was employed. Sweet potatoes were sprayed in every case except in
experiment No. 5, where collards were also sprayed, and the work was
usually begun between 8 and 10 a. m. in bright sunlight. Spraying
experiments commenced July 12 and were continued until August T.

Experiment No. 1—July 12, infested plants were sprayed with
a solution of Paris green, 5 ounces, and freshly slaked lime, 5 ounces,
in 50 gallons of water. The spraying was done in the morning and
rain fell before noon. The next day when the field was examined
the larvee were found uninjured and practically no poison remained
on the leaves. The experiment was therefore a failure.

Experiment No. 2—July 12, Paris green, 8 ounces, and freshly
slaked lime, 1 pound to 50 gallons of water, were sprayed the same
day and with the same results.

Experiment No. 3—July 17, Paris green was sprayed as in No. 2.
Again rain fell hard and steadily before noon, with the same results
as In experiments 1 and 2.

4This would seem to furnish at least one reason why this important insect
has been able to supplant its American cousins such as Pontia napi L., P. pro-
todice Bdv. & Lee., and P. monuste L., all of which feed on crucifers and are
called cabbage butterflies or ‘“ worms.”

66 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Vaperiment No. 4.—Arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gallons of
water, was used. Rain fell as before, resulting in partial failure of
the experiment, the poison being washed off before it had time to
dry thoroughly.

Experiment No. 5.—July 20, arsenate of lead was used as in experi-
ment No. 4. Collards were also sprayed. Rain did not ensue for at
least six hours, giving the spray time to dry on well in the warm sun.
The following day it rained hard for several hours, but the next
day the spray was found to be as thick on the sweet potatoes as when
first put on, in spite of two partially rainy days. The poison was
nearly as thick on the collards. An examination of the infested plants
two days after spraying showed that only 25 per cent of the caterpil-
lars were killed, but July 23, a day later, few large larvee remained
on the plants, showing that as soon as they have eaten sufficient poison
they are killed.

July 29, when the rows sprayed with arsenate of lead were again
examined, they were found in much better condition than the check
or unsprayed rows, few larve being seen feeding, while dead ones were
plentiful.

Veperiments Nos. 6 and 7.—July 20, a sweet-potato patch was
sprayed with Paris green, 8 ounces to 50 gallons of water. As in the
case of experiment 5, no rain fell for about six hours; therefore the
poison dried on well, as previously. The following day it rained
hard for several hours, with the result that by July 22 the poison
was all washed off and only a few dead larve were found. All of
the Paris green experiments were failures, since the rain washed the
poison off either before it could dry or after it was well dried on the
plant.

Experiment No. 8.—July 28, the adhesive copper arsenite (com- _
bined with dextrine and glucose) was used at the rate of 1 pound to
100 gallons of water and applied as in previous experiments. The
following day no results were observed, but the foliage was not
burned. At the end of a week no good was accomplished and the ex-
periment was pronounced a failure.

Experiment No. 9—July 25, plants were again sprayed with ar-
senate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gallons of water, the conditions being
as in experiment No. 5. Rain at 12.45 p. m. washed off the poison,
consequently the spraying was a failure.

Experiment No. 10.—July 25, plants were sprayed with the copper
arsenite mixture; 10 ounces to 50 gallons of water were applied as in
experiment No. 8, an equal quantity of lime having been added. The
spray did not show well on the foliage and was invisible when dry.
It does not remain in suspension as well as Paris green and much
residue remains in the tank. July 28, a few dead larve were found

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 67

on the vines and only a few live ones, but the same conditions were
observed on the check rows. The experiment was an absolute failure.

Experiment No. 11—July 29, plants were sprayed with copper
arsenite mixture at the rate of 15 ounces to 50 gallons of water. In
this case 14 ounces of copper arsenite and 1 quart of thick lime were
used with 5 gallons of water. Two days later the spray showed better
than in experiment No. 10 because of an abundance of lime and was
very finely and evenly applied to the leaves. Four larvee were dead
on a few plants examined against 32 living Prodenia and 3 living
sweet-potato sphinx-moth larve (Phlegethontius convolvuli L.).

August 6, this spray still remained on the foliage, seeming to
adhere well, but the experiment was a failure in killing larvee.

Baperiment No. 12.—July 29, plants were sprayed with arsenate of
lead, 3 pounds to 50 gallons of water, applied as in previous experi-
ments with lead arsenate. There was no rain for 24 hours. On a few
plants examined three days later 41 dead larve were found and 49
living, an observed death rate of less than 50 per cent. It should be
pointed out at this time, however, that it is difficult to find dead larve,
as they sometimes dry up or crawl away.

August 2, the vines were almost free from larve. The experiment
was pronounced very successful.

Experiment No. 13.—July 30, arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50 gal-
lons of water, was used without ensuing rain. In some rows exam-
ined August 1 about 20 per cent of the larve were dead; in others 48
per cent, 54 per cent, and 61 per cent were killed in two days. August
5, these rows appeared entirely free from larve unless closely in-
spected, when only 5 or 6 could be found to a row. These might have
crawled from unsprayed weeds or other plants.

Veperiment No. 14.—July 30, arsenate of lead, 3 pounds to 50 gal-
lons of water, was used. Three days later 84 per cent of the larvie
under observation were destroyed, the rows being quite clean. In
both of these experiments, 13 and 14, many dead larvee were found in
rows not sprayed, as many as five rows away from the sprayed ones.

Veperiment No. 15—August 7, arsenate of lead, 2 pounds to 50
gallons of water, was sprayed by a laborer, under supervision. It
‘ained at 1 p. m., but the spray remained on the leaves in large
amounts and, for having been applied by an inexperienced hand, was
well distributed. In this experiment, for some reason, the first four
rows sprayed at one filling of the tank produced quite a number of
burned leaves. This was attributed to a possible mistake in weigh-
ing out the chemicals. It did not, however, permanently injure the
plants.

Caterpillars in the last 4 experiments, supposedly of the third gen-
eration, were very small, not over one-fourth or one-third of an inch
in length. As a consequence they were quickly killed, large numbers

68 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

of them being found dead soon after spraying. Forty-three dead
larvee were found in a furrow beside one plant which contained 29
dead larve. In another place 112 dead larve were counted in 3
feet of furrow.

RESUME OF EXPERIMENTS, AND CONCLUSIONS.

Experiments 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7, in which Paris green was used at the
rate of 5 to 8 ounces in 50 gallons of water, were failures because in
each case the rain which followed the application washed off the
poison.

Experiments 4 and 9, in which arsenate of lead was used at the rate
of 2 pounds to 50 gallons of water, were also failures for the same
reason.

Experiments 8, 10, and 11, in which copper arsenite was used at
a rate of from 10 ounces to 1 pound in 50 gallons of water, failed,
not because of burning the foliage, as was feared, but because the in-
sects were not killed.

Experiments 5, 12, 13, 14, and 15, in which arsenate of lead was the
insecticide employed at the rate of 2 to 3 pounds in 50 gallons of
water, were successful in each case.

The results of this series of fifteen experiments show conclusively
the superiority of a spray of arsenate of lead to one of Paris green
when applied under suitable conditions. It is in every way more
effective and more satisfactory than the latter, as Paris green is so
likely to be washed away by the frequent rains of the wet season of
Florida. These remarks apply practically to all cutworms, cater-
pillars, and other larvee which devour truck and related crops in
central Florida or similar regions.

ADHESIVE COPPER ARSENITE MIXTURE.

The preparation of copper arsenite used in the experiments that
have just been reported was stated by its inventor to be free from
soluble arsenious acid and to possess the adhesive properties found in
no other adhesive insecticide. It was stated to be composed of 36
per cent dextrin and 4 per cent gum and was prepared to be used in
conjunction with lime in the proportion of 1 part by weight to from 4
to 6 parts of lime—either dry or in solution, according to the foliage
to be tested. The inventor also expressed his confidence that this
insecticide would prove a most economical one for general garden
and other use, as the loss by wind and rain would be reduced at least
50 per cent and the first cost of the article would be about half that
of Paris green or arsenate of lead.

Samples of this mixture were submitted to Mr. J. K. Haywood,
Chief of the Miscellaneous Laboratory, Bureau of Chemistry, who
furnished the following analysis, August 7, 1907;

THE SEMITROPICAL ARMY WORM. 69

Analysis of 4551 Mise.

Per cent.

WOOT US (Ope Befey Sees ee Sagat * SPN SR i oe et ee ee ee ee 4.85
PRO ESOL O Use O kel eee Pe ee ee re ee eee ek 40. 42
POE COM DC 2 kl Cee ee er ew Fe ee ees a ee eS 24. 87
Gumeand ;GexErins (Approximate) == ss Se eee a ees 20. 00
Acetic. acid and other undetermined_———___ Se es a 9. 86
TRON. = as a ee a een ieee sas ee ee eee ee 100. 00
SOU GmaESCOLOUS tO RIG: 226 fa sos ase es = Fos ee ee ee eee 11. 36

(10 day water ext. method.)

From the above analysis the sample evidently consists of about 20 per cent
gum and dextrin and 8O per cent Paris green. The amount of soluble arsenic is
very high and would undoubtedly give rise to serious trouble.

SUMMARY.

The semitropical army worm is a smooth or hairless noctuid
caterpillar, Prodenia eridania Cram. It feeds normally on weeds,
such as the pokeweed and spiny amaranth or “ careless weed ” of the
South, and is confined to semitropical America as a pest. When it
becomes unduly abundant it attacks the foliage and, in some cases,
the stems and fruits of all forms of garden truck growing in its
habitat, the list of known food plants including tomato, potato, sweet
potato, eggplant, pepper, okra, collards, and cowpeas. In its habits
it is similar to the cutworms, having also the climbing habit, and
when extremely abundant it migrates in armies like the common army
worm, whence the name.

Experiments show that the egg period may be passed in a min-
imum of 4 days, the larval period in 17 days, and that the entire life
cycle, in an outdoor summer temperature, would be about 35 days or
5 weeks; also, that there are four generations and possibly five pro-
duced in a year, the insect breeding practically continuously during
the warm season. In ordinary years the species is largely controlled
by natural enemies, of which seven are parasitic and six predaceous.

A series of fifteen experiments was conducted against this species
in Florida during 1907, which shows conclusively that a spray of
arsenate of lead is the best remedy, being much superior to Paris
green when applied under local conditions. It is in every way more
effective, chiefly because less likely to be washed away by the frequent
‘ains of the wet season in that region. It is best applied at the rate
of 2 or 3 pounds in 50 gallons of water, and applications must be
renewed when the insects again become numerous, as the latter are
apt to spread from unsprayed plants.

70 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

oo

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL LIST.

CRAMER, PIrERRE.—Papillons exotique, Vols. III & IV, p. 1383, pl. 358, fig.
BH. & EF. (2), 1782.
Description and figures of both varieties of moths.
SmitH, J. E. and Appot, M. J.—Lepidopterous insects of Georgia, Vol. II,
DiS ples Ons aeons

Described as Phalena phytolacce with brief account of habits. Figures of moth
and larva.

Grotr, A. R.—Bul. Buff. Soc. Nat. Sci., Vol. II, p. 28, 1873.
Listed as Yylomiges phytolacce (S. & A.) and recorded from California and
Atlantic District.
Morrison, H. Kk.—Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., p. 62, 1875.

Technical description as Actinotia derupta n. sp., from Texas, September 21.
Brieily compared with phytolacce S. & A.

Grotr, A. R.—Can. Ent., Vol. XI, pp. 205, 206, 1879.

Received from Texas and referred to Prodenia phytolacce; characters, ete.
No excuse for Morrison’s Actinotia derupta.

Hutst, G. D.—Bul. Brooklyn Ent. Socec., Vol. III, p. 77; Vol. IV, p. 7, pl. 1,
fig. 9, 1881.
Described as Leucania nigrofascia from one specimen taken by Koebele at
Tallahassee, Fla.

SmitH, J. B.—Catalogue Noctuide Boreal America, p. 169, 1893.
Bibliography ; synonymy and distribution. ;

[Chittenden, F. H.]|—Yearbook U. S. Dept. Agr., 1907 (1908), p. 545.
Brief unsigned notice of injury to truck crops in Florida.

In Smith’s catalogue of Noctuide,’ fifteen references are given to

this species, but as only a few of these are of interest in connection
with the present account, the reader is referred to that ist. The more
important references are listed above.

U.S. D. A., B. EB. Bul. 66, Part VI. Issued May 8, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE.
(Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,
In Charge of Truck Crop and Special Insect Investigations.

INTRODUCTORY.

A minute, metallic blackish flea-beetle, Psy/liodes punctulata Melsh.,
known by different local names, has been reported in recent years as
doing very extensive injury to the hop plant and considerable injury
to sugar beet. Since 1904 it has been reported in numbers on sugar
beets grown in several localities in Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. In
the Northwest, and particularly in British Columbia, it does serious
damage in hopyards, and has been especially destructive since 1903.
During the past three years, indeed, this species has become unusually
abundant, with the result that in the Chilliwack and Agassiz Valley
hop-growing regions of British Columbia it has accomplished damage
which has been estimated by Mr. H. J. Quayle as about 80 per cent
of the crop. Mr. Theo. Eder informs the writer that this means a
cash loss of not less than $125,000 in that district. The species during
that period has been the subject of considerable correspondence be-
tween this Department and persons practically interested in the grow-
ing of hops in the affected region.

The insect has received the name of rhubarb flea-beetle, from its
common occurrence, especially in the East, on rhubarb. In the West
it is called the hop flea-beetle, or “ hop flea,” or simply “ flea,” and in
literature it has received mention as the punctulated and the small-
punctured flea-beetle.

While the species is not known to be of the highest importance as a
sugar-beet pest, the probabilities are that it may become so, and at the
present time it is probably the most important hop pest in the entire
world. The incorporation of some new matter, gained from con-
versation with Mr. Theo. Eder and by correspondence with Mr. H. J.

55968°—Bull. 66—10——6 be

"2 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Quayle, has added much to the value of the present paper. Although
the species is much more serious as a pest in British Columbia than
in the United States, it is likely to become important throughout
the Pacific coast region where hops are grown. Mr. Eder repre-
sents the E. Clemens Horst Company, which owns extensive hop-
yards in British Columbia, and has already expended considerable
sums in investigation and experiments. The hop flea-beetle is now
abundant practically on the border line between British Columbia
and the State of Washington, and threatens our own industries. It is,
therefore, advisable that everything possible concerning it should be
made public before its appearance in the spring, although there are
several points in its life history still to be worked up.

DESCRIPTIVE.

The hop flea-beetle (fig. 12) 1s a member of the tribe Halticini,
family Chrysomelide, and resembles other flea-beetles in its strongly

Fic. 12.—The hop flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata) : a, Larva; b, lower surface of head
of same; c, upper surface of anal segments of same; d, beetle. a, d, Much enlarged 3
b, c, more enlarged. (a—c, After Carpenter; d, original.)

developed hind thighs. It is of oval form, with a greenish tinge,
brassy blackish, and punctulate or finely punctured, whence its spe-
cific name. The femora, tarsi, and basal joints of the antennx are
pale yellowish. The punctulations of the thorax are particularly
fine and appear as if made with the point of a very fine needle. The
punctures of the elytral striz are closely placed, almost crenate. The
beetle is only about one-tenth of an inch (2™") in length and
less than 1™™ in width. The male is particularly distinctive, hav-
ing the first jot of the anterior tarsi broadly dilated and the last

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 73

ventral segment sinuate each side, while the middle of the disk near
the apex has a semioval depression."
The species was first described in 1847."

DISTRIBUTION.

The hop flea-beetle is a native American species, quite distinct from
any species found on hops in England or on the Continent.

The collection of the U. S. National Museum and the published
records and specimens before the writer show the species to be gen-
erally distributed in the northern United States and southern Canada,
from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It does not appear to occur south
of Nebraska. The list of known localities follows: Cambridge, Mass. ;
Dundee, Ithaca, Long Island, Staten Island, and New York, N. Y.;
New Jersey, generally distributed (Smith) ; Pittsburg, Pa.; Marshall
Hall and Cabin John, Md.; Marquette, Detroit, Grand Ledge, and
Byron, Mich.; University, N. Dak.; Lincoln and Omaha, Nebr. ; Fair-
field, Wyo.; Denver, Longmont, Grand Junction, Delta, Montrose,
Paonia, and Ft. Collins, Colo.; Logan, Garland, Lehi, Salt Lake, and
Park City, Utah; Elko, Nev.; Blackfoot, Idaho; San Francisco, Mar-
tinez, Monterey, Huntington Beach, Pasadena, and Chico, Cal.;
Tenino, Wash.; Astoria and Marion, Oreg.; Agassiz, Sardis, and
Vancouver, British Columbia; Northwest Territory; Manitoba; and
“ Assiniboia ” (now Saskatchewan).

RECENT INJURIES.

September 16, 1903, the late Dr. James Fletcher first reported this
species injuring hops in British Columbia.

During 1906 Mr. Theo. Eder wrote from San Francisco, Cal., under
date of April 9, that hop growers were troubled considerably in some
sections by “hop fleas,” or flea-beetles. May 29, specimens were
received from Perkins, near Sacramento, Cal., which proved to be
the species under consideration. August 13, Mr. Hugh F. Fox, New
York, N. Y., sent specimens and transmitted a report from Mr. Geo.
Heggie, manager of a large hopyard, the Stepney ranch, owned by
Sir Arthur Stepney, at Enderby, B. C., where this pest was very
injurious. Mr. Heggie wrote as follows:

We have been sorely troubled this year in our hopyard with the ‘ hop flea-
beetle,” which attacks the young vine and leaf as soon as they appear above
the ground, and eats out large holes in the leaf, resulting in the plant being

“Tn the very closely related Ps. convexrior Lec. the last ventral segment of the
male is convex and not impressed. The latter species is, moreover, larger,
broader, and more convex, and the elytral striz are not impressed.

>The numbers in superior type refer to corresponding numbers in the ap-
pended bibliography, p. 91.

74 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

impoverished in vitality and the growth thereby seriously retarded. We were
troubled with them last year [1905], but not to the same extent, and had them
till after hop picking. In the middle of July they were so numerous that the
ground was fairly alive with them. They go into the ground in the evening
and come out again in the morning, and there has been no spray found to have
any effect without killing the plant.

Substantially the same form of injury was reported during the
same year at Agassiz, B. C., by Mr. John Wilson in a letter to Doctor
Fletcher. Writing September 7, 1906, Doctor Fletcher stated that
this species had been enormously destructive in British Columbia,
one correspondent reporting the loss of many thousands of dollars.
He estimated his crop as possibly 70 bales, whereas he should have
had 250.

Writing of this species, January 30, 1907, Dr. E. D. Ball, while
working in cooperation with the writer, stated that it was by far the
most injurious species on sugar beet in Utah. It was found every-
where and was apparently the most common species in early spring.
It was observed hibernating around the edges of fields, in patches of
dead mustard, along ditch banks, and in similar places. Where
ditches were covered with patches of roses these seemed to furnish a
favorite retreat. These clumps grew to a height of 2 or 3 feet and
were very dense, and from them one could see the injury to the beets
radiating in every direction, the affected area growing wider and
wider as time went on. In early spring this species fed on almost
anything that came to hand, but its injury to beets was practically
all done at the time the plants were first appearing through the
ground or within a few days thereafter. Cases were observed where
the rows of young plants could be seen the entire length of the field
one day, and two days later scarcely a beet plant could be found, the
beetles having eaten the tender stem, causing the tops to fall off and
the beets to die. Frequently they attacked beets just as the latter
were pushing through the ground. Hundreds of acres had been
destroyed in this way, injury varying greatly in different years and
in different localities.

Great damage was done near Logan, Utah, where the hedge mus-
tard was overrunning the fields. At Lewiston, Utah, at the northern
end of the same valley, injury was also severe, although there was
little of the common black mustard.

The destruction of a crop by this species does not necessarily entail
a complete loss, as the growers replant. The late plants, however,
are not, as a rule, as good as the earlier ones, and the weeds get such a .
start that the land is hard to cultivate. After the beets had reached
a leaf diameter of 3 or 4 inches no material injury was noticed,
although the beetles continued to appear in the fields throughout the
season. Beetles were observed July 20, 1906, at Cache Junction,

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 75

Utah, enormously abundant on a form of hedge mustard along the
railroad tracks, feeding on the half-grown seeds. Single plants were
seen on which a double handful of beetles could be taken at one stroke
of the net.

In a letter dated July 20, 1908, the E. Clemens Horst Company,
Perkins, Cal., wrote of extensive injury by this species, and as this
letter contains much of interest it is transcribed herewith. The
writer is greatly indebted to the same company for the excellent pho-
tographs from which the ten half-tones illustrating this article are
taken.

We are extensive growers of hops on the Pacific Slope, California and Oregon,
and also have about 600 acres of hops in two ranches in British Columbia.
For the past three years we have been very much molested in British Columbia
by a variety of flea-beetle that seems to take an especial liking to hop foliage
and eats the young, tender shoots as they come out of the ground, and also the
developed and partly developed leaves of the vines after the same are above
ground. There are two other growers in the same section that were bothered
one or two years previous to ourselves, and as they had some foreign varieties
of hops we at first supposed the insects had been imported from England in the
roots. Since, however, we have found that the same insect has been in the
neighborhood in very small numbers for quite a long term of years. Our crops
in British Columbia suffered quite a bit last season, but this year are very
nearly a total failure. From the one place, Chilliwack, B. C., containing 278
acres, we do not expect to reap a harvest of more than 600 bales, whereas we
should have from 2,500 to 3,000 bales. From the other place, Agassiz, B. C.,
we do not expect over 250 bales of hops, whereas we should have 2,250 to 2,700
bales. This will give you some idea of the inroads made by the insect and the
resultant loss to persons engaged in hop growing when their yards are attacked
by these pests. Of course we readily understand that it would be somewhat out
of the ordinary for your Department to attack this problem inasmuch as it is
out of the United States, but inasmuch as the pests are now so numerous
within about 20 miles of the United States boundary and only a short distance
from the Washington State hopyards we believe it is well worth your considera-
tion. Just imagine for a moment the loss that would fall to the numerous
growers of hops in the States of Washington, Oregon, or California, if this
pest should not be held in check, and would migrate to these sections. We have
definite knowledge of their already having spread as far as Sumas Junction,
which is on the boundary line between the United States and Canada, where
they are attacking cabbage, potato, beets, and other root crops, though the
damage done here is not nearly as bad as in the hop fields. * * *

A badly damaged hopyard is shown in figure 13.

During 1908 injury from the hop flea-beetle was reported by Mr.
W. W. Stockberger, of the Bureau of Plant Industry of this Depart-
ment. He mentioned the cases already cited and one reported by
Mr. Robert Maitland, of Agassiz, B. C., the latter stating that the
ravages of this insect would almost destroy the prospect for a crop
during the season. Mr. John Wilson, Agassiz, B. C., who complained

76 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

of this species in earlier years, reported, under date of July 11, as
follows:

The flea-beetles have been so numerous that they have stripped every portion
of the yard this season. I have noticed these last three days that they are all
disappearing, but they all disappeared last season about this time and a second
brood came about the middle of July. :

This “ second brood ” was probably merely the first-developed gen-
eration of the year.

This species has also come under the observation of various other
collectors and observers. During 1906 Mr. Frederick Maskew, while
working under the writer’s direction in southern California, took
it generally in many beet fields. Mr. E. G. Titus, while codperating

Tig. 18.—View of hopyard, showing how completely the hop flea-beetle keeps down the vines.
Note occasional vine that grows up. Agassiz, B. C., June 24, 1908. (Original.)

with this Bureau in the investigation of sugar-beet pests, found it
abundantly, and many of the locality records given under the head-
ing “ distribution,” in California, Utah, Idaho, and other States are
from specimens collected by him on sugar beet in 1905, 1907, and 1908.

Writing of this species in July, 1908, Mr. I. J. Condit stated that
the beetles were then very common in the vicinity of Chino, Cal., on
Chenopodium album and C. rurale.

METHODS OF ATTACK, FOOD HABITS, AND GENERATIONS.

This flea-beetle affects both surfaces of a leaf, gnawing through
the skin and devouring the pulp, usually leaving the skin on the op-
posite side entire; this later becomes discolored, forming yellowish-

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 77

brown freckles as the leaf grows and expands, the skin at this point
in time becoming torn and frequently showing holes. When the
beetle occurs in moderate numbers the leaves (fig. 14) become riddled,
as by fine shot, the punctures being most obvious after the plants have
made some growth. In its attack on hops it frequently causes the
leaves to look like a mass of network or more or less completely
strips the vines of leaves, as shown in figures 15 and 16. As is the
case with flea-beetles in general, this species does most harm to young
plants. When the beetles occur in considerable numbers they are
capable of doing great damage in a comparatively short time, com-
pletely devouring
the young and
tender leaves as
fast as they come
up.

Injury is most
noticeable on
hops, sugar beet,
rhubarb, and some
other vegetables.

The beetle is a
general feeder, the
list of its food
plants including,
among vegetables,
rhubarb, beet, cu-
cumber, turnip,
radish, cabbage,
mustard, and po-
tato. It feeds also
on hops, red and
white clover, nettle, dock (Rumex), lamb’s-quarters (Chenopodium),
pigweed and tumbleweed (Amaranthus retroflecus and A. grecians),
hedge mustard, and common wild-growing black mustard. The prob-
abilities are that, as all of these plants are affected by the adult beetles,
a considerable proportion of them serves as food for the larve. On
this head Mr. Quayle has written that the eggs, larve, and pup
were taken at a depth of from three to six inches from the surface
of the ground in hop fields and that the larve apparently feed on the
roots of hop as well as those of other plants growing in the yards.
Since it is well known that the beetles occur in other regions where
hops do not grow there must be other larval food plants. It would
be interesting, and is important, to ascertain exactly what plant, or
plants, is the favorite with the larvee.

Fic. 14.—THop leaves, showing work of flea-beetle. (Original.)

78 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Fletcher, in writing of this species, says that in Canada there are
two generations a year, the first appearing in June and the second in
August. The generation appearing in August is with little doubt the
newly developed first generation, and, reasoning from analogy, 1. e.,
from what we know of related flea-beetles, it is this generation of the
beetle that hibernates; thus the so-called “ first generation ” is simply
that same generation reappear-
ing the following spring and
early summer

As to hibernation, Piper °
and Doane * have recorded that
the beetle passes the winter
under stones or rubbish, in
which respect it resembles
practically all other species of
American flea-beetles, and that
with the first warm days of
spring the beetles emerge from
their winter quarters and im-
mediately commence feeding
voraciously upon their various
food plants.

The following account of
the life history and habits of
the species in the worst affect-
ed locality in British Colum-
bia has been kindly furnished
by Mr. H. J. Quayle, who has
also given an account of reme-
dial experiments which sup-
plement those previously fur-
nished by conversation with
Mr. Eder; indeed, without the
information supplied by these
two gentlemen this article
would be quite incomplete.
Before transcribing Mr.
Quayle’s account it may be well to draw from it, according to the
statement of Mr. H. Hulbert, Sardis, B. C., that this species made
its first appearance asa hop pest in British Columbia in 1894 and that
it has been of great importance for five years, or since about 1903. In
regard to Mr. Hulbert’s statement that the beetles disappear about
June 1 and reappear the last of July, it is obvious that during that
period the larve are maturing, the pupe are formed, and the beetles
of the first, or new, generation appear.

Fic. 15.—Work of flea-beetle after vines are
grown. (Original.)

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 79

The following account of the life history and habits of this species
as it occurs in British Columbia is taken from Mr. Quayle’s manu-
scripts: .

LIFE HISTORY AND HABITS.

The adult.—The beetle appears very early in the spring and, according to
reports, patiently awaits the coming of its food plant. This early attack of
the beetle as the plants are bursting through the ground and before the leaves
are fully expanded is one of the things that makes control work difficult.
Before the hops appear the beetles are
known to attack the nettle, and often com-
pletely riddle the leaves. They also attack
other plants, and have been seen, and evi-
dence of their work noticed, on potato,
mangel, beet, turnip, dock, lamb’s-quarters,
pigweed, and red as well as white clover.
None of these plants is attacked, however,
in preference to hops and it is rarely that
they are found at this season on anything
but hop vines. In one or two cases they
were observed in some nhumbers on potato,
at a considerable distance from hop vines.
On a small field of hops that was deserted
last year on account of this flea-beetle and
planted to clover, the leaves of the latter
were considerably eaten.

The first appearance of the beetles in this
section, according to Mr. Hulbert, was
fourteen years ago, and they have been
attacking his hops for the past five years.
The beetles jump very readily when dis-
turbed, but fall to the ground, usually not
far from the base of the vine. Experiments
to determine the power of jumping, which is
an important factor in control work, indicate
that they may not jump more than a foot
in the vertical and about a foot and a half
in the horizontal.

Feeding occurs almost entirely on the
upper surface of the leaves, where they
eat out small, nearly round holes about
one-eighth of an inch in diameter. This is
continued until the leaf is reduced to a network and finally nothing but the
main ribs remain. Many of the vines grew to a height of three or four feet,
then the foliage was completely stripped off, leaving the dead stalks, which
may still be seen in the fields. Many of the vines are thus killed to the
ground. Strings were put in place in 1908 in anticipation of the usual crop,
but were taken down and saved for another year, as the vines that started
afterward were too late to make a crop. Cultivation was stopped and a
thousand sheep were imported from California by the Horst Company to
feed in their yards.

The beetles, with their more or less cone-shaped bodies, readily make their
way through anything into which they can get their heads, and our experi-

Fic. 16.—Trained hop shoots stripped
by flea-beetle. (Original.)

80 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

mental cages [fig. 17], which were covered with cheese cloth, had to be re-
covered with calico. They also make their way through the soil with little
difficulty. Experiments to determine this point consisted in burying them at
different depths, enclosed in tin cylinders. In two days the beetles appeared
through 2, 4, and 6 inches of loose soil, but did not appear from these same
depths where the soil was made compact by tamping.

The egg.—aA few eggs have been taken on the hop roots about 4 inches
below the surface. Obviously, these are most difficult to find and can not be
detected at all without a magnifier. To more easily obtain the eggs and younger
stages, tin cylinders, 8 inches in diameter and 2 feet high, have been sunk to a
depth of 8 inches in the
ground, some enclosing hop
vines and others in the
open field. Large numbers
of beetles have been liber-
ated in each of these, and
they will be taken up with
the soil intact in the tins in
two, three, and four weeks,
and the soil carefully ex-
amined for eggs and larve.
Beetles taken in mating,
and enclosed in vials with
earth at the bottom, have
laid eggs in from eight to
ten days.

The larva.—Larve of what
the writer believes to be
this flea-beetle have been
taken from 2 to 4 inches
below the surface, both
around hop roots and in the
spaces between the vines
away from any hop roots.
While most of the laryie
have been taken about hop
vines, I think that they are
not restricted, in feeding,
to the roots of the hop ex-
clusively, since some have
been taken in spaces be-
tween the hop. vines and
also because of the wide
distribution of the beetle, both in the United States and in the valleys of the
Chilliwack and Agassiz, away from any hopyards. Search about the roots of
the nettle and other plants growing along the borders and roadsides failed to
reveal any larve.

The pupa.—We have also taken pups of what was considered this flea-beetle.
Transformation to the adult was, of course, necessary to establish this positively
and some of the pup:e taken to the laboratory duly transformed. These were
taken about the hop roots 3 or 4 inches below the surface.

Both larvee and pup, when sought at the same time, were extremely scarce,
and sometimes an hour’s search would result in finding nothing. Earlier in the

Fic. 17.—Breeding and control cage in place over a hill.
(Original. )

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 81

year would undoubtedly be a more opportune time for getting the younger
stages, but our rearing-cage experiments, starting with the beetles in mating,
should give us ample material for the study of the younger stages. The scarcity
of the larvie at the time when sought is attributed by the writer to the fact
that it was too late for the large numbers of spring and too early for those
expected to appear about six weeks later, according to reports of previous years,
Those few which were obtained are probably late individuals of the last brood.

Two other kinds of larvze are taken commonly in the ground, these being wire-
worms and carabid larvie. Many of these are very small, just about the size of
our flea-beetle larvzee, and the wireworms, when first hatched, are of the same
white color, but both of these forms of laryre can be readily distinguished from
the flea-beetle larvee. The few pup:e obtained are undoubtedly those of what
we consider the flea-beetle.

Development.—F rom all accounts this flea-beetle keeps emerging continuously
throughout the season, though there are periods when the beetles occur much
more abundantly than at others. Last year Mr. Hulbert stopped using the
tarred boards June 1, when practically all of the beetles had disappeared. They
did not reappear until the last week in July, when the jarring method was
resumed. This year (1908) he continued the use of the tarred boards up to
the second week of July, this difference over 1907 being attributed to the cold
wet season. According to this, the next lot of beetles may not appear before
the last of August of the present year. Beetles have been seen breeding con-
tinuously during the past two weeks, though not abundantly, one pair being
seen out of seventy-five or one hundred beetles. Beetles are usually present in
considerable numbers in the fall, when the hops are mature, and do much direct
injury to the product.

NOTES ON OTHER SPECIES.

A few remarks in regard to the larval habits of our other American
and some European species of Psylliodes may be interesting. The
writer has several times observed the beetles of the equally well-
known Psylliodes convexior Lec. in numbers on shepherd’s purse
(Bursa bursa-pastoris) in June near the District of Columbia, and
it is probable that this is the larval food plant. Until the publica-
tion of Mr. Quayle’s article * there was no record of any of our four
species having been reared; hence, the natural conclusion that they
were root-feeders. In Europe no less than forty-nine species of
Psylliodes are recognized in a recently published catalogue,* and the
habits of those which have been studied indicate a preference for
cruciferous plants, although several are attached to widely differ-
ent groups of plants. Thus among European species are the hop
flea-beetle (Ps. attenuata Koch), the potato flea-beetle (Ps. affinis
Payk.), and a species which is mentioned and figured by ‘TYaschen-
berg? as the “raps-erdfloh” (Ps. chrysocephala L.). The last is
very abundant and has been known for years to attack edible crucif-
erous crops. It has been recently treated (1906) by Mr. Geo.

“ Reitter, Catalogus Coleopterorum Europ, pp. 572-574, 1906.
> Praktische Insekten-Kunde, Pt. II, p. 303, fig. 79. Bremen, 1879.

82 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

H. Carpenter as a cabbage pest in an article in which the larva is
described and illustrated in detail. As to its biology Mr. Carpenter ¢
reaches the conclusion that the female beetle lays her eggs on the
underground part of the stem and that the young larva burrows
through into the interior and feeds in the central tissue of the stem
and taproot until mature. The papal stage lasts about three weeks
and is passed in an earthen cell just beneath the surface. The
natural larval food plant is evidently a wild crucifer.

LOCAL CONDITIONS AND NATURAL INFLUENCES.

Inquiry was made of Mr. Eder during his visit to Washington,
D. C., in December, 1908, as to the local conditions in the infested
area. From what was learned through him it would appear that the
insect’s occurrence in such great numbers in the hopyards of British
Columbia was due to the equable temperature and to the humidity,
which keeps the soil practically always sufficiently moist for the oper-
ations of the larve feeding beneath the surface.

There can be no doubt, from the writer’s observations of our east-
ern flea-beetles, that these are largely held in check, especially in
regions like the District of Columbia, by the extremely dry heat of
midsummer. At the time that the flea-beetles are developing as
larve or undergoing their transformation the ground is nearly baked
by the heat during the day and softened only by dews at night. The
conditions are very different in British Columbia, and there are,
moreover, no other natural causes known which might assist in de-
pleting the numbers of the little pest.

Among natural agencies only a single species of insect has as yet
been discovered preying upon this flea-beetle, a hymenopterous para-
site which was known to Fitch? and which he mentions as a “ Chal-
cidian.” It is evidently a species of Perilitus, probably the same
species, schwarzii Ashm.(%), as has been encountered by the writer
on other species of flea-beetles of the genera Epitrix and Phyllotreta.
It develops within the body of the adult or beetle. It is not known
if this species occurs also in the Pacific region. If not, it might be
possible to introduce it.

Fitch’s observations and conclusions are interesting, since we have
no reason to doubt his theory. Briefly he observed on June 4, 1863,
two flea-beetles pairing on a leaf of rhubarb. Presently a parasite
alighted near them. It darted upon the back of the female, appear-
ing to be inserting its sting in the tip of her body, whereupon she
gave a leap and they both disappeared among the foliage. Fitch
conjectured that the “ chalcidian ” was an egg-parasite of the flea-

4 Journal of Economie Biology, Vol. I, pp. 152-156, Pl. XI. London, England,
November, 1906.

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 83

beetle and that the eggs of the latter were so minute that the larval
parasite required several of them to nourish and bring it to maturity,
as observed of an egg-parasite of the Hessian fly. The parent, watch-
ing her opportunity, deposits an egg internally in the ovaries of the
flea-beetle, or in the passage-way therefrom, and the parasite larva,
taking up its residence there, consumes the eggs of the flea-beetle,
one after another, as they develop, whereby none of them will be
extruded until after the parasite has attained its growth. In con-
clusion he writes, “ Most singular and truly wonderful as such a
provision of nature would be, it is the most probable conclusion I am
able to arrive at from past observations.”

METHODS OF CONTROL.

Correspondents who have inquired for a direct remedy for use against
this species have been advised to experiment with all of the usual
flea-beetle remedies. These are, in brief, arsenate of lead. arsenate of
lead with resin-fishoil soap, Paris green with and without Bordeaux
mixture, Scheele’s green, arsenite of lime with soda, dry Paris green
with air-slaked lime, Bordeaux mixture alone, and kerosene emulsion.
According to Messrs. Eder, Quay!e, and others, most of these remedies
have been tested more or less completely without being found to be
thoroughly effective, owing to the great numbers of the flea-beetles and
the rapidity with which the tops of the hop vines grow. All remedies
that have been employed have been directed against the beetles only.
Unless the hop plants are sprayed nearly every day it is practically
impossible to keep them covered with any poison so as to entirely pro-
tect them from the ravages of the “ fleas.” Among other substances
tested were tarred boards and sheets, as for leafhoppers. On account
of the employment of cheap labor, chiefly Hindu, mechanical and
hand methods were found of some value. Snuff was found effective
on a small scale and finely powdered tobacco, such as is now on the
market as an insecticide, is to be tested.

According to Messrs. Quayle, Eder, and others, the difficulties
encountered in the economic treatment of this species are due to two
causes: (1) The continual emergence or appearance of the beetles,
rendering any method that has yet been employed, such as an arsen-
ical or contact spray, or any mechanical means of capture, such as jar-
ring, of only temporary value, and (2) the extremely rapid growth
of the young hop vines, making frequently repeated applications of a
spray or other direct remedy a necessity.

ARSENICALS.

Arsenate of lead.—Arsenate of lead, applied at the rate of about 1
pound in from 20 to 50 gallons of water, is advised for use against

84 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

the hop flea-beetle. Being more adhesive, this mixture, when sprayed
upon the plants, sticks more firmly to the leafage than Paris green,
and is also very much less likely to produce scorching or burning;
indeed, it has been used at 1 pound to 10 gallons of water on some of
the hardier plants, such as potato, without injurious effects. This is,
however, not advisable, owing to the extra cost, provided that a
weaker solution will accomplish the object. Moreover, scorching is
apt to follow its use at this rate on some plants, especially when these
are exposed to the direct rays of the sun. The adhesiveness is still
further enhanced by the addition of about the same amount by
weight of resin-fishoil soap as of the arsenical employed. Mr. Wil-
son reported that arsenate of lead, applied at the rate of 4 pounds to
40 pounds of Bordeaux mixture, was inadequate, yet Mr. Quayle re-
ports that used at the rate of 5 pounds to 50 gallons it will kill a
large number of the beetles, although many take to the new growth
that is constantly appearing, or apparently carefully avoid those
places on the foliage that have a good coating of poison. The failure
of these two arsenicals must be attributed, in large part, to unsuitable
spraying apparatus; either of these applications should kill insects
on hops, as they have both been found effective, according to Fletcher,
against this same beetle on rhubarb in the Northwest Territory and
Manitoba.

Dry Paris green—Mr. Thos. Cunningham reported that very
little impression was made by an arsenical spray in the region just
mentioned, but stated that Paris green dusted on the plants seemed to
produce better results. It was applied by means of a Leggett powder
gun. Even then some trouble was experienced; in fact, as the
arsenical dust or so-called “ dust spray ” struck the vines the “ fleas ”
hopped to the ground. “In all my experience with insecticides,” he
says, “I have never seen anything which will approach the fleas in
resistant power.”

Paris green spray.—Paris green, being the most readily obtainable
insecticide, was advised by this Bureau when information as to
remedies was requested. When properly prepared and applied,
according to the directions furnished in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 127,
this insecticide should have no deleterious effect on the hop or other
plants affected. It was advised that other food plants growing in the
vicinity, such as rhubarb, turnips, and weeds, should be sprayed with
the solution.

Regarding its efficiency in hop fields Mr. John Wilson, in a report
to the late Doctor Fletcher, stated that when applied at the rate
of from 4 to 8 ounces, in combination with Bordeaux mixture, made
according to the 4440 formula, or in 40 gallons of water, it was not
successful.

‘VIGWNN0D HSILING NI SGUVAdOH NI G3Sf) SNLVYVddY DNIAVYdS

(AVNIDINO)

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology,

U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

PLATE

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 85

For use against this species in its occurrence on field and garden
crops in Washington State, Messrs. Piper and Doane have advised
Paris green. The former states that he obtained excellent results by
using Paris green liberally but that it is necessary in the treatment of
young plants to apply the remedy as soon as attack by the beetles is
noticed. Both the wet and the dry methods are advised, as well as
the addition of Bordeaux mixture.

Other arsenicals.—Other arsenicals advised in such cases are arsen-
ite of lime with soda,? which has the merit of being as effective as
Paris green and lime and far cheaper, and Scheele’s green, which is
similar to Paris green and is employed in the same manner.”

SUMMARY ON THE USE OF ARSENICALS.

To sum up the directions for the use of arsenicals, it should be
stated that arsenate of lead should take first place because it can
be purchased already combined in paste form, and especially because
it contains a smaller percentage of free arsenic (60 to 70 per cent),
and is therefore less likely to produce scorching or burning; and,
moreover, being adhesive, it remains on the plant longer.

Paris green, when combined with lime and water, or with Bor-
deaux mixture, is almost equally as good as arsenate of lead, and
is more readily obtainable in most markets, the ingredients being
purchasable practically anywhere. It is quicker in action, but not
so adhesive.

The number of sprayings will naturally depend upon the locality
and seasonal conditions; possibly it may be necessary to spray every
few days when the plants are quite young and the beetles are most
abundant. Later there should be longer intervals between sprayings.

Dry mixtures are as a rule not in the same class with the sprays,
as they can not be applied so economically, do not so thoroughly
cover or adhere so closely to the leafage, and are more apt to cause
burning to delicate foliage. Dry Paris green mixed with air-slaked
lime in the proportion of about 1 part of Paris green to 10 or 20
of lime is sometimes used, but is less effective, and frequently much
of the material is wasted in applying it.

The spraying apparatus used in the hopyards of British Columbia
is shown in Plate V and figure 18, the second illustration showing a
crew spraying hops through the rows.

CONTACT SPRAYS.

Among the contact sprays tried during 1908 were whale-oil soap,
1 pound of soap to 10 gallons of water; kerosene emulsion, + pound

“Prepared in accordance with instructions in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 283, p. 37.
> Discussed in the publication quoted, as also in Farmers’ Bulletin No. 127,

86 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

soap and 1 gallon of kerosene to 25 gallons of water; resin, 1 pound
to 16 gallons of water; and black leaf tobacco extract, 1 gallon to 65
gallons of water. Of these Mr. Quayle says that the last seemed most
effective, with kerosene emulsion next, and that none of these sprays
in the given proportion injured the foliage at all.

It is entirely possible to kill most of the beetles well hit by the spray, buf
many escape between clods in the soil or are protected by the vine or are con-
cealed in the growing tip. The percentage killed, however, will be satisfactory,
but this [treatment] must be repeated so often that the operation becomes
laborious and costly.

While kerosene emulsion and whale-oil soap are practically never
advised as standard remedies for mandibulate or chewing insects,

Fic. 18.—A crew spraying hops in British Columbia. (Original.)

such as this flea-beetle, both are employed in the infested terri-
tory against the hop aphis, or “ louse,” and therefore the hop grower
is familiar with their preparation and use. It has been ascertained
that when these are used against the hop aphis the flea-beetles coming
into contact with the emulsion are killed. The probabilities are that
kerosene emulsion properly prepared and applied in the affected
regions will be considerably less expensive than a tobacco extract, and
it is possible to make a tobacco extract which would be comparatively
cheap. In recent experiments made under the writer’s direction at
Norfolk, Va., whale-oil soap, used at the rate of about 1 pound to 10
gallons of water, employed against aphides, has proved quite as ef-
fective and as economical as kerosene emulsion, considering the fact

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 87

that unskilled laborers are likely to make imperfect emulsions and
waste the material in applying it. With competent help, and other
things being equal, kerosene-soap emulsion should be the more eco-
nomical spray. It would be well to continue the use of kerosene emul-
sion at varying rates, including the rate that has been already used
and up to 1 pound of soap and 1 gallon of kerosene emulsion to 30
gallons of water. It is possible that if the emulsion were diluted
with 10 gallons of water still better results might be obtained, but if
labor is cheap the weaker solution, other things being equal, should
prove to be the more economical preparation.

BORDEAUX MIXTURE.

Bordeaux mixture, as has been known for years and frequently
demonstrated, is a powerful deterrent against flea-beetles and other
leaf-beetles, and its use should be continued. Since, as appears to be
demonstrated by the observations of Mr. Quayle, this flea-beetle is
quite discriminating in taste, it would be well to apply Bordeaux
mixture over a considerable surface and use Paris green or arsenate
of lead for the remainder of a field, i. e., to spray the majority of the
plants in such manner that those which reject the Bordeaux mixture
on treated plants would resort to those sprayed with Paris green or
arsenate of lead. It should be determined which of these two insecti-
cides has the greater deterrent effect against flea-beetles.

MECHANICAL AND CULTURAL METHODS.

Trap crops—The great fondness displayed by this species for
rhubarb suggests the use of the latter between rows, e. g., in the vicin-
ity of woods, as an attraction or lure for the beetles, it being believed
that the beetles will concentrate on these plants and thus give the crops
an opportunity to grow to a sufficient height and strength to be able to
resist the ravages of the pest. Since certain cruciferous crops are
also attacked, such as turnips, it is further suggested that these and
other varieties like swedes and rutabagas, rape, and mustard be
employed. In the mild climate of the infested region all of these
can be grown during the winter, and it seems probable that kale will
be found equally effective. Beets, especially mangels, are grown in
the affected region and tests should be made with these as trap crops,
as also with sugar beet in regions where this crop can be grown
profitably.

Rolling the fields—One of the remedies attempted against this flea-
beetle in its occurrence in beet fields, as reported by Doctor Ball,
consists in the use of rollers. He reports that “ running a corrugated
roller over the field as soon as the damage is first discovered seems

55968°—Bull. 66—10——7

88 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

to have a very good effect. Just why, 1s not so clear, possibly because
it loosens the ground, breaking up any crust that may have formed,
and allows all the beets to get through at one time and in this way
some of them get ahead of the beetles. The farmers think it kills
the beetles. Cleaning up hedge-banks and rubbish around the fields
has been recommended and appears to have had a good effect. It is
a lamentable fact that a field that is slightly weedy when the beets
appear will not be injured as badly as one that is free from weeds,
which probably accounts for the fact that replanted beets are rarely
destroyed.”

The use of fertilizers—Where fertilizers are used the plants are
undoubtedly aided in recovering from attack by this flea-beatle, but
fertilizers are not remedies. Possibly where mineral fertilizers are
applied heavily they might have some effect on the larvae, but it is
doubtful if a sufficient amount of an irritant salt would remain in
the earth to destroy any large percentage of larve at the time when
those which have just developed from the egg or have just molted are
feeding on the roots. It is worth mentioning, however, that Mr.
Theo. Eder noticed that when a fertilizer consisting of 3 per cent
nitrogen from nitrate of soda, 12 per cent potassium oxid (K,O)
from muriate (chlorid) of potash, and 9 per cent phosphorus pen-
toxid (P,O,) from superphosphates was applied there were prac-
tically no flea-beetles. This fertilizer, however, was considered too
expensive, owing to the cheapness of hops in the affected region of
British Columbia.

Irrigation —Irrigation has been suggested and, on the authority
of Prof. E. G. Titus, the flea-beetle, when it 1s working on sugar
beets, can be driven away during irrigation by disturbing the beets,
thus causing the beetles to jump into the water and be swept away.”

Tarred catchers—Tarred sheets, boards, or similar contrivances on
the plan of “ hopperettes,” in use against leafhoppers, have been em-
ployed in the infested region for capturing the flea-beetles. Mr.
Hulbert reports having destroyed large numbers by catching them
on tarred sheets as they fell from the vines after being disturbed.
Mr. Quayle also reports success with a “ catcher” which he describes
substantially as follows:

The receptacle used consists of a stout canvas about 3 feet by 4, to which is
nailed, on the under side, three strips of boards with one at right angles, to
keep the canvas taut. A handle is fastened to two of these strips to project
upward and backward, by means of which the apparatus is operated. ‘This is
lifted from vine to vine and the beetles jarred off with wisps of hay. Usually

two men work together on the same row, the two canvases placed together on
each side of the vine.

“Bul. 67, Bur. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 112, 1907.

PLATE VI.

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

Hop FIELDS FROM WHICH TRAINING TWINE WAS REMOVED IN JUNE OR JULY, PHOTOGRAPHED IN AUGUST.

Beetles abated somewhat the last of July and hops began to put out new shoots.
close in fall.

Weed growth kept down by sheep pasturage.
(Original. )

Hop-leaf growth pastured yery

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 89

This method captures a satisfactory percentage of the beetles and
should be comparatively inexpensive. But unfortunately the re-
peated operations which are necessary bring the cost to a high figure.
It cost Mr. Hulbert last year approximately $1.25 per acre for each
operation. He went over his vines six times, and some parts of the
yard eight or ten times. He expected to go over it at least twice
more, so that the total cost would be from $10 to $15 per acre.

In figure 19 a portion of a hop field is shown which illustrates the
tarred “boards” in place for use. The flea-beetles are dusted off
of the vines upon these tarred receptacles with wisps of hay, as

ae wit ts eR RTS
ee Prag a

Iie. 19.—Portion of hop field with tarred boards in place. Flea-beetles are dusted with
wisps of hay from the vines onto tarred boards. (Original.)

described above. All of the vines were tanglefooted, but the flea-
beetles went up the poles and crossed over on the wires overhead until
the tanglefoot was applied. Plate VII illustrates the method of
capturing the hop flea-beetle on tarred horse sledges, also by shaking
the vines. Millions were captured in this way.

CLEAN CULTIVATION.

Frequent stirring of the soil and other cultural operations seem,
as yet, to be of no appreciable help, according to Mr. Quayle, and the
kind of soil also seems to have little or nothing to do with the abun-

90 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

dance of the beetles, which are found in light, sandy, and heavy soils.
Mr. Quayle further says:

The control measures which have been tried have been necessarily directed
entirely against the adult or beetle, and considering the rapid growth of the
vines and the continuous appearance of the beetles no effective and practical
remedy has yet appeared. With further work on the younger stages it may
be possible to find here a vulnerable point of attack.

One of the most promising remedies for this as well as other insect
pests is the employment of clean methods of culture. Since it has been
found that the flea-beetles ensconce themselves in any available shel-
ter, such as the cracks in the hop poles, even although these may have
no bark remaining, it has been thought desirable to dip the poles in
a preparation which will not only close the cracks but which will also
repel the pests. Fuel oil, a grade of crude petroleum, is being tried,
according to Mr. Eder, since it can be purchased as low as 2 cents
a gallon. Tar might serve the same purpose and should act as
strongly as a repellent and close the cracks more closely and would
not be so disagreeable to handle. The poles are dipped into the
boiling fuel oil, but the tar would also have to be heated very hot
before dipping.

It is customary to plow thoroughly and to cultivate where possible
so as to keep down the weeds, and this method of tillage must, of
course, be continued, as the insects find food in weeds of the kind
which have been mentioned in the opening paragraph, viz, dock,
lamb’s-quarters, pigweed, and the like, and also cruciferous weeds.
If, by preventing the insects from hibernating in the hop fields in
débris, the fields can be practically freed from them, the next step
is to prevent their hibernating in near-by timber, as there can be
little doubt that in such places are their favorite winter quarters.
It is practicable in many cases to cut down small sections of timber
in order to accomplish this purpose.

In answer to the question as to the remnants after the hops are
picked, Mr. Eder informed the writer that the expedient of cutting
the tops and destroying them by burning led to the discovery that the
beetles enter into the hollow stalks, remaining in hibernation there
in great numbers. With the discovery of this habit he will permit
remnants to remain as long as there is any prospect of the insects’
trying to obtain winter shelter in them, and then will have all débris
burned at about the time of the first frost. One method of destroy-
ing field remnants and weeds, by sheep pasturage, is illustrated by
Plate VI.

The writer has suggested the addition of burlap wrapped about
the poles which have been treated with tar or which do not have an
odor strong enough to repel the insect. This will attract the insects
for hibernation, and can be removed after the first frost, or there-

PLATE VII.

Bul. 66, Pt. VI, Bureau of Entomology, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture.

METHOD OF CAPTURING Hop FLEA-BEETLES ON TARRED HORSE SLEDGES BY SHAKING THE VINES; MILLIONS CAPTURED IN THIS WAY. (ORIGINAL.)

THE HOP FLEA-BEETLE. 91

abouts, and thrown into hot water, and after drying will be available
for use in other seasons.

If, with another year’s experience, we could ascertain how best to
control the insect, either by killing the beetles with arsenate of lead
or other arsenical, kerosene emulsion, or whale-oil soap, or by destroy-
ing the larve in the ground, the problem would be partially solved.
One, two, or perhaps even three of these remedies might be used in
combination and excellent results obtained. In any case, if we can
partially control the insects by any one of them we should not forget
that cultural remedies, and especially clean culture, are the most
valuable remedies that can possibly be employed against insect pests.
Indeed, with many species, if cultural practices were properly fol-
lowed out, with the cooperation of our neighbors, insecticides would
in the course of time, after the balance of nature had been restored,
seldom be needed save in case of severe outbreaks, which are hkely
to occur more or less spasmodically with most of our noxious insects.

LITERATURE.

A complete bibliography of this species is appended and only a
brief review of published accounts need be given. The original
description of the species appeared in 1847,‘ and it was not until
twenty years later that we had any record of the insect’s habits. In
1867 Fitch? wrote a two-page account regarding injury to cucumber,
rhubarb, and radish, furnishing notes on a parasitic natural enemy.
In 1884 our first account of injury to hops, a brief one, was written
by Dr. J. B. Smith.t| These accounts were followed by one from
Piper ® on injuries to certain truck crops in Washington State in 1895
and by Doane ® of similar injuries in 1900. The writer* noted the
abundance of the species on rhubarb near Washington, D. C., in 1897.
Forbes and Hart *® have given a brief account of the insect from the
standpoint of its injuries to sugar beet in [linois, and Fletcher *® *'
published two accounts of the species in 1904 and 1907, respectively.
In 1908 was published H. J. Quayle’s article,'? in which first mention
is made of the larval habits of the insect.

BIBLIOGRAPHY.

1. MELSHEIMER, F. E.—Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., Vol. III, p. 166, 1847.
Original description from Pennsylvania as Haltica punctulata n. sp.
2. Fircu, AsaA.—1ith Rept. Ins. New York, pp. 38-40, 1867.

A 2-page account with mention of food plants and a parasite; observed feeding on
cucumber, rhubarb, and radish.

3. Fircu, Asa.—Ill’d Ann. Reg. Rural Affairs, 1867-8-9, Vol. V, p. 204, 1873.
A brief note, with mention of attack on cucumber and melon.
4, Situ, J. B.—Bul. 4, 0. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 50, 1884.

Mere mention of occurrence in hopyards, where the beetles eat small holes in the
leaves, doing no great damage.

Horn, G. H.—Trans. Amer. Ent. Soc., Vol. XVI, pp. 310, 311, 319, 1889.
Revised technical description, distribution, and systematic bibliography.

on

92 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

6. Piper, C. V.—Bul. 17, Wash. State Agr. Exp. Sta., pp. 55, 56, 1895.

Short general account, with list of food plants. Species stated to be “by far the
most destructive flea-beetle in the State” [of Washington].

7. CHITTENDEN, F’. H.—Bul. 9, n. s., Div. Ent., U. S. Dept. Agr., p. 22, 1897.
Short note on abundant occurrence on rhubarb near Washington, D. C.
8. Doang, R. W.—Bul. 42, Wash. Agr. Exp. Sta., pp. 11, 12, figs. 2, 3, 1900.
A 2-page general account with two original illustrations.
9. Forses and Hartr.—Bul. 60, Univ. Ill. Agr. Exp. Sta., p. 472, 1900; 21st
Rept. State Ent. Ills., p. 124.
A brief account; on sugar beet in Illinois.
10. FLercHeEr, JAs.—Rept. Entom. and Bot. Canada for 1903 (1904), p. 177.
Mere mention as affecting hops at Sardis, B. C., in noticeable numbers.
11. FLercuer, JAS.—Rept. Entom. and Bot. Canada for 1906 (1907), p. 215.

Account of injuries in the Fraser River Valley, B. C., in 1906, with quotations
from John Wilson, Agassiz; Thos. Cunningham, Vancouver; and H. Hulbert, Sardis,
B. C., which include experiences with remedies.
12, QuAYLE, H. J.—Journ. Econ. Ent., Vol. I, p. 325, October, 1908.
A short article, with notes of injury in British Columbia; account of habits, all
stages, including the egg, being taken 3 to 6 inches from the surface of the ground,

larve feeding at the roots of hop and other plants growing in the yards; list of
food plants, and difficulties of applying remedies.

SUMMARY.

The hop flea-beetle, a minute, black insect, feeds on various succu-
lent plants. It does serious damage to hops in British Columbia and
less injury to sugar beet and vegetable crops in the Pacific coast
region.

Its life history is only partially known, but all stages have been
found about the roots of hops and the larva probably feeds on most
of the same plants as the adult. It is feared that this species may
become an important hop-pest in Washington and Oregon, and it
doubtless does more injury to beets than is generally accredited to it.
Injury is most severe to young plants, but on sugar beet the operations
of the beetles throughout the season undoubtedly have a deleterious
effect and necessarily decrease the yield.

The abundance of the beetles when they appear early in the season
on young plants, their constant reappearance, and the constant new
growth of the plants from day to day make it difficult to apply
direct remedies with more than temporary benefit. Where the hops
are sprayed with kerosene emulsion or whale-oil soap for the hop
aphis the numbers of the beetles are lessened. Among measures
which give promise of value are the institution of clean methods of
cultivation, including deep fall plowing, treating hop poles in such
manner as to prevent the beetles from hibernating in them, and clear-
ing all remnants from fields so as to leave them as bare as possible to
prevent the beetles from sheltering there in winter. Arsenate of lead,
Paris green, kerosene emulsion, whale-oil soap, and Bordeaux mixture
should receive further tests, as should the employment of trap crops
in the manner advised in this article.

U.S. D. A., Bul. 66, Part VII. Issued July 19, 1909.

SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS.

By F. H. CHITTENDEN, Sc. D.,

In Charge of Truck Crop and Stored Product Insect Investigations.

SUCCESSFUL USE OF ARSENATE OF LEAD AGAINST THE
ASPARAGUS BEETLE.

During the first week of June, 1908, Mr. W. A. Orton reported the
common asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi Li.) very injurious at
Takoma Park, D. C., and made some experiments with arsenate of
lead with complete success. Directions for application, as given in
Circular 102 of this Bureau, were followed. The first application was
made with 1 pound of arsenate of lead to 20 gallons of water and the
second a week later, as the plants had grown rapidly in the mean-
time and a great many new larve had hatched. The second appli-
cation was made at the rate of 1 pound to 15 gallons of water. The
first application destroyed most of the insects, but after a few days
a considerable number had developed. These appeared to have been
all killed the day after the second spraying. Neither spraying seemed
to injure the plants in the least, but the liquid adhered in fine drops to
the foliage and was visible there for some time. An unsprayed plat
on a neighbor’s place was considerably injured by these insects, and up
to July 1 no more had appeared on Mr. Orton’s crop. He pronounced
the treatment very effective. The work was done with a compressed-
air machine or autospray.

Mr. Edward A. Eames, Buffalo, N. Y., writing of the value of
arsenate of lead as a means of combating the common asparagus

Nore.—The accompanying Part VII includes short notes on some of the
insects which have been treated in earlier parts of this bulletin and notes on
two insects not hitherto recorded as injurious in the United States. To the
former class belong notes on the asparagus beetles and the asparagus miner,
species considered more in detail in Part I, pages 1-10, and notes on water-
cress insects in addition to what has been published in Part II, pages 11-20.
To the second class belong notes on the injurious occurrence of the pea moth in
the United States and a short account of a new western root-maggot.—F. H. C.

93

94 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

beetle, stated that the larvee of this species threatened to devour his
this year’s spring-set asparagus to the ground. But after one thor-
ough spraying with arsenate of lead it was difficult to find any but
dead larvee on the plants. Successive sprayings were of course neces-
sary, because the beetles continued to come from neighboring gardens
to deposit eggs on the plants and because the developing plants con-
tinually presented fresh unsprayed foliage for larval food.

Mr. Eames stated positively that arsenate of lead adhered well,
even through several rains, just as its various promoters claimed—
a fact which justifies its use in any case even at more initial cost
than other poisons which might be used. He also expressed the view
that asparagus growers generally should be impressed with the fact
that, because of the tendency to spray only once, additional informa-
tion should be given of the value of extra applications. In conclusion,
he stated that he believed arsenate of lead was a specific for this
class of insects.

Our correspondent is undoubtedly right. It seems to be as nearly
a specific for asparagus beetles as anything that can be obtained,
provided it is applied according to directions and that applications
are repeated as often as necessary. The trouble is that many truck
growers, after spraying a single time, consider that the matter should
then be dropped, and if the desired result is not produced, 1. e., if the
trouble is not wholly stopped, the spraying is condemned or at any
rate the insecticide is discontinued, while all that is necessary for
the entire season is a second or third application.

A NOTE ON THE ASPARAGUS MINER.

The asparagus miner (Agromyza simplea Loew) was reported by
Mr. I. J. Condit in the vicinity of Antioch, Cal., August 19, 1908,
where the common asparagus beetle was also abundant. The miner
was said to be equally numerous and stalks showing infestation were
received. The miner-infested stalks could generally be detected by
their roughened appearance near the ground.

This species was also taken by Mr. Condit at Oakley and it seems
probable, since the common asparagus beetle is found in both local-
ities, that it is becoming generally distributed in California. In one
place at Oakley Mr. Condit observed the miner quite common on some
stalks, but it did not appear to be equally common over the entire
ranch.

During October, 1908, the writer observed this species well estab-
lished on asparagus in the vicinity of Portsmouth, Va. In October,
also, Mr. J. B. Norton reported very severe injury to asparagus in
the vicinity of Concord, Mass. The roots of the plants were not
only girdled, but the miners worked up the stalks some inches above
the ground.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS. 95

INJURIOUS OCCURRENCE OF THE PEA MOTH IN THE UNITED
STATES.

Prominent among the injurious occurrences of the year 1908 was
the discovery of the pea moth (Hnarmonia nigricana Steph.) for the
first time in the State of Michigan. August 10 we received from Mr.
J. E. W. Tracy, Bureau of Plant Industry, specimens of the larva of
this species and its work in growing peas and pods from Charlevoix,
Mich.

Mr. Tracy wrote that he obtained the specimens on that day and
some days earlier and that Mr. E. W. Coulter and others in that
vicinity knew nothing of the identity of this insect, which was causing
them considerable concern. The caterpillar first showed itself in
very small numbers four or five years before, but it had increased
rapidly until the year of writing, when 15 per cent of the peas were
ruined. The insect appears to start operations by eating the embryo
stem and then moves along the pod until it makes its exit and dis-
appears. Early varieties of peas were the worst sufferers in the
affected district. At the time of writing our correspondent found a
less number of living larve than previously.

This appears to be the first record of the appearance of this insect
in the United States, although it has been known as a pest in Canada
for several years and has undoubtedly been present in our Northern
States, where peas are grown, without having been recognized as
anything new or unusual.

A two-page account of this species has been published by the writer
in Bulletin No. 33, pages 96-98, which includes a brief illustrated
description of the moth and larva and a consideration of the distri-
bution, nomenclature, history, habits, and remedies.

This insect first came to notice near Toronto, Ontario, in 1893, and
notices of its ravages in Canada were given in several subsequent
years by the late Dr. James Fletcher in his report as entomologist
and botanist of the Dominion of Canada. It is an importation from
the Old World and is well established in New Brunswick and Nova
Scotia as well as in Ontario, and is also recorded from Manitoba.

The name of this species was omitted from the Dyar catalogue of
Lepidoptera, but is included in Smith’s Check List of Lepidoptera
under No. 5702. In most publications the species is mentioned as
Semasia nigricana.

A NEW WESTERN ROOT MAGGOT.

August 16, 1907, Mr. E. M. Ehrhorn sent from San Francisco, Cal.,
some radishes, the roots of which were affected by a maggot. The
adults were reared September 3 to 20 and were referred to Mr. D. W.
Coquillett for identification. They were first mistaken for Pegomya
cepetorum, because of the very close relation of the two species, but

96 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

when more material of both sexes was obtained they were seen to
be different. Mr. Coquillett states that some individuals have the
bristles practically as in cepetorum, but in the males the median
black stripe of the abdomen is continuous. This material corresponds
so well with Stein’s description® of Chortophila planipalpis as to
leave no reasonable doubt of the species. The type locality is Idaho.
The insect will therefore be known as Pegomya planipalpis Stein,
and may be called the western radish maggot. Another lot of the
maggot was received from the same source October 1, larve and
pup both being present. From this lot adults issued November
ito.2 1.

November 21, 1908, we received from Mr. Charles Heise, Aber-
deen, Wash., a section of turnip mined by larve which are probably
of this species, as also a number of puparia. Our correspondent
stated that his observations showed that the maggot works on onions
as well as on turnips. As we do not know to the contrary, and do
not know positively of the occurrence of any onion maggot in that
State, this surmise may be correct. It remains to be verified or dis-
proven. The seed-corn maggot (Pegomya fusciceps Zett.) occurs
in that region and is more apt to be the onion-feeding species.

Two natural enemies of this radish maggot have come under ob-
servation and have been identified by Mr. J. C. Crawford, as follows:

Aphereta sp.—September 3, 1908, many braconids of a species of
the genus Aphwreta emerged from material in which this root-
maggot was breeding in infested radish from San Francisco, Cal.
It is a small species, shining black in color, with dusky wings and
yellow legs. In some specimens there are 21 joints to the antenn
on one side and 22 on the other. It is very similar to the type of
musce, but is larger.

Polypeza sp.—This species was reared from its host October 10,
1907, and appears to be undescribed.

NOTES ON WATER-CRESS INSECTS.

The water-cress leaf-beetle-—May 2, 1907, Mr. J. W. Bryan brought
to this office from Halltown, W. Va., specimens of the water-cress
leaf-beetle (Phadon cruginosa Suffr.), present in the beetle and
larval forms, the larvee at that time about half grown. The beetles
vere beginning to die and a fungus attack was noticed when received.
Numerous individuals of the beetle and one larva were parasitized by
the fungus. The fungus was tentatively determined by Mr. Haven
Metcalf, Bureau of Plant Industry, as Zntomophthora spherosperma.
If this identification is correct, there can be no doubt that the fungus
attacked the insect before death, and may therefore be a factor of
value in its natural destruction.

? Berl. Ent. Zeitschr., Vol. XLII, pp. 234-235, 1897.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES ON TRUCK-CROP INSECTS. 97

Since the publication of the writer’s preliminary articles on the
water-cress leaf-beetle and sowbug in the present bulletin (pp. 11-20)
it has been noticed that earlier accounts of the related European
Phedon betule L., known as the mustard beetle and “ blackjack,”
were made by Miss E. A. Ormerod, who furnished several references
with illustrations in her manual.* From this account it appears that
injury was first noticed, at least in England, in 1854, to white mustard
crops near Ely. Another account of this insect is given in the same
author’s report for 1886.2

The water-cress sowbug.— April 16, 1907, Mr. C. A. Mallinger, Ship-
pensburg, Pa., sent specimens of the water-cress sowbug (J/ancasellus
brachyurus Harg.) in different stages, stating that it was destroying
his water cress, working on the leaves under water, cutting them close
to the stem. If the cress is hght or does not grow fast, as happens in
winter, they also work on the stems and roots, cutting the plants loose
and causing them to float downstream. Our correspondent thought
that this species was brought to that section from Virginia.

Experiments conducted with lime in a small spring the previous
summer succeeded in killing most of the sowbugs, but plenty of them
remained at the time of writing. The lime, however, burned the
cress, causing it to turn yellow.

December 23, 1908, Mr. F. W. Houston, a grower and shipper of
water cress at Lexington, Va., wrote of this species, inquiring for
literature and a remedy. He stated that he had a spring under culti-
vation that was infested with the water-cress sowbug, and later—
March 11, 1909—he sent specimens. In this connection he wrote as
follows:

I have a spring under cultivation which has been infested by them for several
years. I fought them for a time by putting the water into ditches and exposing
the rest of the cress bed to the sun. In these ditches I would make frequent
applications of lime; this, of course, was done during the early summer, after
the shipping season closes. It seems to kill all of the sowbugs, but when I put
the water into the beds and reset the cress, hauling it from an uninfested spring,
it was not long until the “ bugs” were again noticed, and in a short time they
were as thick as ever.

Mr. Houston was advised that in the case of the old beds the water
should be drawn or turned off and that the cress should be completely
destroyed and the spring reset with uninfested cress.

@Manual of Injurious Insects and Methods of Prevention. London, 1890,
pp. 151-156.
» Report on Injurious Insects for 1886, pp. 59-60.

hae
iy vee
¥ ‘ a wry

roms

R
es

“

INDEX:

Page
Actinotia derupta, bibliographic reference.........-.---------.-.-...-.------ 70
mama bigelovie on: sea-plite (Dondia)..:.-...-.-....2.+-2<<.s2i.sc3sece5e0ee 50-51
BOA DCGkr seme 4 fas Sere. Seed Scale ee ee eee 50-51
FUE 25 CONDE) U1 M0) 2) PRS Su 50-51
MoncHaoMaucam beet, Nabitss. =. 2° a8 S. oo so 2s 2 5e5 5 bk Sense oe oe 51
widgripinciaa.on sugar beet, Nabe. 5-222: 25.25.0202 .~ seneleos Seances 51
SRUGHANOLEN UT OUNGUCAD DOCUs ce. oc ote ot 2 ca nae eed ene es hh deen eee 50-51
CAUCE STOOL OLA UE2 24 cl 0 22 Fo a RO a, ng ee a a ad CoP 50-51
IEDC CHESITE DIEU merece sto eee Peer es OA tes Sade oslo o a tine tree 1-5
blolocicalinotedsen cee eas eee es Se a eee 2-3
CLOSCUED GO ete a te re on eee ws ones 1-2
CRAIN OHEEe. Doce a: Stee re ents aa he See 2
BRIA DORIC ARNG LORS ee OES eer a Se aes 2 ES Sot eee 2-3
RA ULE VeRO OH Leste ors eine 0 “ae GSR aed es .. « Sete 3-4
on asparagus in California, Massachusetts, and Virginia... .-. 94
FEM CHIME CASTER ay «Mt seek a ac ato A wee ae ps ee 4-5
Allygus sp., of Bruner, probably Futettix strobi.............-.2+-+--1----+-+-2- 49
Amaranth, spiny, food plant of Prodenia eridania..........---------- 53, 58-60, 62, 69
Amaranthus spinosus. (See Amaranth, spiny.)

grxcians, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata...........---------- i
retroflecus, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata............--.------ 77
Apateticus (Eupodisus) mucronatus, enemy of Prodenia eridania.......-.------ 64
ma planenap., parasite of Pegomya planipal pis... 2... lce< cece eos s - esses 96
Aphiochxta nigriceps eating pupze of Prodenia eridania.........-.-.-.---------- 63
mpplestood plant of Cleora pampinaria.2.-~-2~. 525-42 n-ne be seee sas ck ees 24, 25
EVI O RECA ASS see eM ery Se eS te Eee EA eet 51

Army worm, semitropical. (See Prodenia eridania. )
Arsenate of lead against common asparagus beetle..............---..---- 8-9, 93-94
Chan ehry-ApANWOIMive-.c-c= osc ee Soo eee ns e
Hop rlea-beGiles tse eS arc eee Sookie een 83-85, 87, 92
BeMubropicall army WOnmo5> 222.02. -.2s-5-2- se. ~8 65-69
pimiped pardenicaterpillar? ._<.. 2-5-2522 08-55-24 32
and Bordeaux mixture against hop flea-beetle.......-.-..-.-- 83-84
striped garden caterpillar . . .-- 32
resin-fishoil soap against hop flea-beetle.........-.------ 83-84
soap against common asparagus beetle...-.....-.--- 8-9
Arsenite of copper, adhesive, against semitropical army worm........-------- 65-69
AMIR VEA ee rghc sie tee noe Co see eee eee 69
lime with soda against hop flea-beetle...............------.------ 83, 85

Asclepias incarnata. (See Milkweed.)
Asparagus beetle, common. (See Crioceris asparagi.)
twelve spotted. (See Crioceris 12-punctata.)
beetles, notes on distribution and destructive occurrences ......... 6-10
99

100 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page.
Asparagus, food plant oi Agromyza sumplexss-s.---2--2:-2 2-2 eee ee eee 1-5
Cleora: POM PINGING .. sors Pe Pee ee 21, 25
CTOCENIS GS POTOGi ten = Baca. eer ae 6-8
LZ DUNCLOULONE = anor, poacher eee oe ee ee i)
Mamesina leqitima #2222 200. ee ee eee 28-32
miner. (See Agromyza simplex.)
Atriplex confertifolia, food plant of Eutettix clarivida..............-....------- 50
WMSONE >. oe iol ts ee ee 50
PAU perCUulata. ste 2 ee ee ee 50
tenéllaxc nt SoS See oo ee eee 35
food plants’ oi Mutettiz albida 2.221422 5222. 55. oe ee 50
Ball, E. D., paper, The Leafhoppers of the Sugar Beet and their Relation to
the “*@urly-leat”: Condition:¢ .!2-s-2 4. 42) es ee ee 33-52
Beet, food plant of Mutetitz seminudals 2.28: 2 es ee ee 50
Prodenia eridanid: ose 2 Bae Pe ee ae eee 61
PSU ULOGES SP ULTECUULL CLEC aoe eer ee ee 77,79
leafhopper. (See Hutettix tenella.)
sugar, ‘‘curly-leaf” condition with relation to Hutettix tenella......... 33-48, 52
leafhoppers..--+2--assceee 33-52
100d planit.of Agata tigelome ee = =e eee a oes 2 yaa ea eee 50-51
CUNT ED ss Be SERS ee eee oe ee eee eee 50-51
TLOVEV GR Ah s Fee eS oe cS Nae ee eee 51
Guadripunctate 225-0 seo ae eee 51
SONQUINOLENIG a. se ae eee Eee 50-51
UM ETUSS. ain cltr a a2 30g 2 oye ale eee eee 50-51
Mimi poascaess- t= sce es casas oo eee ee eee 51-52
Ebert Clr vid Geen eee ee eee eee 50
SCUECLLO Pn n Meee 5 re agree ee 44-45, 49-50
SITODU So leenaee tee ole eee 44-45, 49
teNCLIG/ nek Sade e ot eee eee 35
Psyliiodes punctulatay ca. sn3 eee 2-- Saas eee 71, 74-77, 92
Blackberry, food plant of Cleora pampinaria: 5.2 ---. 3.2 -- 22) Sass ae eee 24, 25
Mamesira leqitimass 222.72 3202 Sono ee eee 30, 32
“Blackjack.’? (See Phedon betulzx.)
“Blight” of sugar beet, characteristies.<-£:.c52-2s:052-4+.=2¢ 5-5-0 eos eee 44-46
relation. to leathoppets-- 2:22.22 05. s22 acme eee 33-52
or ‘‘curly-leaf” of sugar beet around Spreckels, Cal., not work of
Hutettix tenella... 2 52 ew arse oe ne Sen oe ee ee eee 46
‘“‘Blue beetle.’’? (See Phedon armoraciz.)
Boards; tarred, against: hop flea-beetle:-2-2--2. S25. So. a esc en ae eee 83, 88-89
Boor, collecta—Cleota pamper... 22 22e2- 22s 2 2 eee eee 22
froudulentama=Cleora, pampinarids.- 5. = -2e-a-- aes oe eee 22
jfrugallaria, bibliographic references=.2---- 2-2 s--52 224 eee ee 27
= Cleona) PAM PINGnid 2.0 ose eee ae ee ee eee 22
pampinaria, bibliographic reference: 22-2. - 9-222 eie eee ree 27
== (CLOG DUM PURO area a rete rete eee 24
sublunaria, bibliographi¢ reference 22>. S22 3e. cs see = eee eee 27
—Gleora PAM PINaniGes == -a2-2 es ee ee eee eee 22
Bordeaux mixture, deterrent against hop flea-beetle............------------- 87, 92
with arsenate of lead against hop flea-beetle........-...- 83-84
striped garden caterpillar. - - 32
Paris green against hop flea-beetle...........-.-...-- 83-85

Bursa bursa-pastoris, food plant of Psylliodes convexior........--++++---------- 81

INDEX.

Cabbage; food plant of Mamestra legituma.--...--.22.--2 225.2 - seen kee eee eee
PREAON OFMUPRODE seer OMe 5% fe aise 2 Se k's asad
PROUENIG MIAGNINs cede eee ee oe 3s. = See Se tees 2s
ORTUNOGMU cel ren twa 2 oe oe ch
Psylliodes: DUN ChUGao eas ite a Sate oid = Saisie aw oss ee oe
Callitricha verna, food plant of Phedon armoraci#...........-..----------+-----
Calosoma sayi, enemy of Prodenia eridania........-..-.-----+-22--020---0-0--
Cardamine amara, food plant of Phedon armoracix..........-.-.-..----+-------
“Careless weed.’’ (See Amaranth, spiny.)
Carp, suggested use against water-cress sowbug................--------------
carrots, 100d plant of Prodenta-eridamia....:-.-.s.5-- 2-2. +22 ses ~ odes cence ee
Castor-oil plant, food plant of Prodenia eridania.....................-.--------
Catfish of no avail against water-cress leaf-beetle.......................-2-----
suggested use against water-cress sowbug........-.-..-....-.----------
“Chalcidian’’ parasite of Psylliodes punctulata recorded by Fitch............--
Ghelonnsicy., parasite Ol-Prodesiid ermdanta oe. 5 os. . 25. ee Senne scene ede
Chenopodium album, food plant of Eutettix strobt...........-.-........2.2-2---
Psyllindesspumnenwlara. 22.2 eos

LOOMS Plait OleH ULEtiORSCUINU Ln eee r= = ene se sss fe 44-45,

VER HAC OLEE TOIT ONEEL G2 a a eee Pere
rurale, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata....................---
Chittenden, F. H., and Russell, H. M., paper, ‘‘The Semitropical Army Worm

101

Page.
30/32
18
61

49
76
49-50
44-45
Hil
76

(Prodenia eridania Cram.)’’... 53-70
paper, ‘‘ Miscellaneous Notes on Truck-crop Insects’’....-- 93-97
“Notes on the Asparagus Beetles’’.................- 6-10
“The Asparagus Miner (Agromyza simplex Loew)’’.. 1-5
“The Cranberry Spanworm (Cleora pampinaria
GLCTIB,) eer Pee eh 2s Se so tie 21-27
““The Hop Flea-beetle (Psylliodes punctulata Melsh.)’’ 71-92
“The Striped Garden Caterpillar (Mamestra legitima
GTOtC) fae ee eee eee een So eee 28-32
“The Water-cress Leaf-Beetle (Phxdon xruginosa
ellie le Ee ee ee 16-20
“The Water-cress Sowbug (Mancasellus brachyurus
JEEVES tee! Boe eRe a ar 2 11-15
Chlorid of lime, suggested remedy against water-cress sowbug................- 14
Chortophila planipalpis—Pegomya planipalpis........-.:.--...---+.--0--200-- 96
Clean cultivation against hop flea-beetle.....................-2.-.---+----- 89-91, 92
Ue DME CECE PNAS IS SR Pr re er 21-27
[eral ear? 3103 eee RS ee ner 27
rolopreslinerablUnee! a PeMsee ee oo. se ote oe eee 24
OLE St JOLT Wee OA ee oh Se ET cere 21-23
SIS lato hayek es Ree MO SS ee ee er Se et 23-24
HOGS yal ry ee ee ee ee ISS mk 25-26
ISVs WESOREPUONM <n. i. 2 ie oie cts sc twa sete OS. 22
| eh 2s 1601500) ley ate Me a eR Re mot es rn EI 26
TUG COSGEIDINOD os . - o shape nate = ots wees an oer Semi 21-22
Rac ROME OTIS MACH 2 odes Sige ac kl oe Sb SS eee ee 26
PADUA e tl CCEA UNO ac ie Fars 5 2 ae Gt ox cial ae lane 23
ME UCONCR eet ME A Dress Sie = SS nah 2 ae og Ma Cte te Sees 26-27
‘3005.09 ) ayia 9012) aa ey eg Ae oi PIR ne ean Pe PI eae 22
taipublished: OfiCe NOLES io 5-5 ieee wWewsie csivee cies Suaue ewe 25

102 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page
Cleora tunctarta=Cleora pampinaria:.- 22-92 a Se! cece ee eee ie
Clover, red, food plant of Cleora pampimaria...s-. 4.2.85 s- 2 eee eee 25
Psylhodes punctulata: 5... e5: ets. ose eee 77, 79
white, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata....0...-...-...-52--522-025- Tide
Jochlearia armoracia, food plant of Phedon armoracix.................---.----- 19
Collards, food plantiol Mamesira leqitima=2 252 nae ee ee 30, 32
ProdeniaCndanias 3255 5, vse a Soe ee ee 53, 69
ORMUMOG MUG 2a ae 4 eas ke 30
Cotton cutworm. (See Prodenia ornithogalli.)
food plant of Cleora pampinaria =. sso. 22 55-2. Sees ee 24-26
Cowpeas, food plant of Prodenia eridania..:2.<+=. 2. 2502 eee eee 53, 60, 69
Cranberry, food plantiot Cleora panpinania--n- 19s oe oe eee eee 21, 24, 25
spanworm. (See Cleora pampinaria.)
Cress, iood:plant.of Phaedonanmoracte. <2. seen ee Le 18
water. (See Water cress. )
Chpocerts: asparagt iS os. ened pees Be eee oe ra ee ee 6-9
control with arsenate of leads ~.-23 3. 4-22en 4) eee 93-94
PemMedles..... 064 ete Coen OE cee ee 8-9
12- DUNC 2 <<. ei seeds SN tee ee Bec be Se ee ee eee 9-10
larva yountadescrptionis--2 220.2 se eee ee 10
Crucifers, preferred. food plants of Psylliodes....-..........2..2 2... -.2-2-255 81
Cucumber iood plantiof Psylhodes, piinctislatas.< 25-5442 sa eee he
Cultural methods:agaimst beet leathopper:-<s:2t. 42-9. 2. ae eee 48
hop, flea-beetle. =2..2-0 32.5... ee 87-91
‘“‘Curly-leaf’’ of sugar beet around Spreckels, Cal., not work of Eutettix ten-
CUIG Booed aoe 8 ace ee ee ee ee ee 46, 51-52
characteristics... .. ecac JP ccc ee ee Sa eee 44-46
conclusions... <26)2.6: b.. teeeeee 52
PelAiOMULOWEULetticteIellC een ee 33-48, 52
' leathoppers = 3. /s4..22 eae eee 33-52
Cutworm, cotton. (See Prodenia ornithogalli.)
Cymatophora pampinaria, bibliographic reference......--.-..---------------- 27
== Cleora, Pampunaride i. were ee te ee 22
Deromypastennata, enemy, ot Polistes anniulanse eae 4-5 s eee eee ae ee 64
Dissostemacarolina.attected by tuneus: 2. - 25 eee oe eee ae eee 31
Dock, food plant of Psylhodes: punciulata. 2.2: . io Se tae cee ee eee UT jae
Dondis,, food plant.ol gallabigelowis..2) 2.22. teat ee ae 51
utetiiarteneula. 22 seer cen see ee ee 30
Ducks:against water-cress/sow bug... 2.4. eect see eae ee ee 14
suggested remedy against water-cress leaf-beetle................-------- 20
Dyar, H. G., technical description of the egg and larval stages of Prodenia
CTADONAG <..- 3 52 at 2 Aaa thet s Bye ae ie TES Oa a 55-57
Eggplant; food: plant: ef Prodenia endantas =2. 2525... ce ae ee 53, 62, 69
Empoasca, association with so-called ‘‘curly-leaf’’ of sugar beet at Spreckels,
Cale n.z tae oe ot ok oe ere a Seca ee 46, 51-52
on surar beet whabits, remedyee-e tee oa ee ee 51-52
Empusa sp., fungous enemy of Prodenva eridania.....-.-2.-2--22------ 3-528 65
Enarmonia nigricana, injurious occurrence in United States................--- 95
Entomophthora spherosperma, fungous enemy of Phxdon xruginosa.........--- 96
Epitrix, host of Pervlitus: schwarz: (2)2 2s So 2 es eee Se een 82
Hstigmene (eucarctia) aenxea attectedsby tungus=-2-s5 s-see ee eee eee eee 31
Butetia albida oncAtniplex 3 335 enone eee ne eee 50

clarivida on sugar beet, appearance and habits..............-.-.-..-.- 50

INDEX. 103

Page
Plein mnsane On AwMiIplesk. . 2-20 .no enone oe eee Sees 50
nigridorsum on Helianthus, discoloration and ceteris on leurs re-
PSUR Sea a ee re i i ee Sa ie De ee A eee 44-45
DERUDETEEIAG Ole AAEL OK so. 24 SoS c beh d eaten eee ee ie ae Pee cle a 50
scitula on Chenopodium and sugar beet, discoloration and distortion of
MGS GRECRUELU ID: ©: oS. 52 See ee ieee See are ere 44-45
sugar beet, appearance and habits........................- 49-50
seminuda on beet, appearance and habits...............--.....-..---- 50
straminea on Helianthus, discoloration and distortion of leaves result-
PNG Sees Mee. ees 2h che Bebe! |. eee ee goo aes 44-45
Reid A Moorap HIG RELELOHCC..-..<t..222s2- ooo. oe dco ee seen ee 48
Near felative.or Martetiia tenella... on. oon dee - eee one 50
STOUT ena Dits= saan sae foe es cess se SRE oie aided cue eee ee 44-46
on Chenopodium and sugar beet, discoloration and distortion of
LeaVveR resin. 20 22% <5 5 an BL ee Poke eee 44-45
eugar beet, appearance and habits.....................-..--- 49
tenelin Tacit MO eCREKWOUIQN. 8653252558 5 oe Ss tena osc os es ens 2 one hee 35
atplehis Uther eases. ee eee ae EO ors haste 36-37, 38-40
Maroni and in the Cache Valley, Utah.................... 38
Monroe aU tales Bee Sea ee een oe oy, 22 2a oe epee ae 38
piblionraphic relerenGeses 52.5: oo qcct noes hee nk Paes ee See 48
cage experiments, Lehi; Utah: ..-.....2. 62250525 --250es-nee 38-40
CEES CTT OUT 2 A ak iON ce gE Se 35
GiScerD MIsON Aen eee estan a ease ey bye ee She! oe Lee 36
economic relations....-.--.- 41-47
SUMMA Vp sears ot = atois.= = Sek Se ae ae ae fee aes 47-48
TE Gl CEN LOM oe eg oes, Rh Se ee te ees 35
food plants. . ate ee ee Ean es ey 35
in Oregon, Tidaha, and (ei eee Se ee Se 46-47
hife-Ristompcisihier: see 2-2 unos eon Sa Lins. Ss See ee
SUMMNAT Ves aos sae Se wie epee ee cise SRE 40
TVA, MCR OMEILION 2. 2 Se a8 Ser ere org te dies + cle oe 35
relation to “‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar beet...........- 33-48, 52
REINECIGH DEGHOSEG =" ene oo. Mak a es 2 ee 47-48
Exorista boarmiz, parasite of Cleora pampinaria............-.------------++-- 26
eriuzers against hop flea-beetle.......--.--42-0- seen cen en cere ds ececeeces 88
Bib ams Ge WALCE-Cless BOW DUS. 2 222-2. S<.0 005 os ec n ao ge5 esas ee ccceeemse 14-15
suggested remedy against water-cress leaf-beetle............-........--- 20
Flea-beetle, hop. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
European. (See Psylliodes attenuata.)
potato, European. (See Psylliodes affinis.)
punctulated. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
rhubarb. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
small-punctured. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
*‘Flea,’’ name for Psylliodes punctulata in the West............-.-.....-..--- 71
Fundulus diaphanus, F. dispar, and F. notatus, suggested use against water-
ETTORE ye SEES ee Ee RE EC ee a eee 5% 15
umeous Giseare Of Frolenig UU ...-. oc cece ce nc cis ssc nn es sete de wees eaeees 65
CIBCSNeHAE, MOINES LOGIN «sb ve eben ne Soe wee wee be ee 31
enemy of Phedon xruginosa.......-.----- Gules whys sc ao Ae Sees 96

Garden caterpillar, striped. (See Mamestra iegitimea _
Geraninm, food’ plant.of Cleora pampinaria. .. 2.2.2.2. 0s 2 ns ee es oe ees eden De
Goldenrod, food plant of Mamestra legitima............--...----2-20000e2 eee 30, 32

55968°—Bull. 66—LO0——8

180. ae SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page

Grass, food plant, of Mamestravlegitima..- 3-2. 25-)-< 22. eee 32
Greasewood. (See Sarcobatus. )

Guava, food plant of ‘Cleora pampinanta. 2: fe-coee - - )-ee e eeeee 25

Haltica punctuiata, bibliographic relerence!=-.=.4, 3-5 eek Aeee ee eee 91

Helianthus; food plant of, Butettin mogndorsum]: = ae ae = ee ae eee 44-45

SUPOTILUN CO S22 | ps TRC RS NO ge ee 44-45

Hickory; food plant of Cleora: pampinartas: see ese tee a eee a ee 25

Honey locust, food plant.of Cleorapampinamaisi: 2-2 a. ee a ene eee 25

Hop flea-beetle. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
European. (See Psylliodes attenuata.)
“‘Hop-fiea,’’ name for Psylliodes punctulata in the West..........--.........- 71
““Hopper-dozer.’’ (See Tar pan.)
*Hopperettes.’’ (See Tarred catchers.)

Hop plant; iood plant: oftPsyliiodes‘pumnctulatas. = a) hoe eee 71-92
Horseradish, food plant of -Phzdon armoractz: = 23.2.8 22952 WL ees. 2 esse eee ibs)
+ ichneumon,’* parasite of Prodenia eridaniaa- ss 82ers 58, 64
Inrigation against. beet leathopper2 2.2.2.2 ss Stee ee eee a 48
hop flea-beetle: oc2 1. es kes Pee ee eS 88
as affecting ‘‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar beet.......-...........-- 41-43
Kerosene emulsion against beet leafhopper........-....--.---------------- 43, 47-48
Himpoasea on potatoes: Sc see e eee eee 52
hop flea-beetle 2 Aika. sieteee ee ee ae oe 85-87, 92

Killifishes, fresn water. (See Fundulus diaphanus, F. dispar, and F. notatus.)
Kohirabi;tood ‘plant of Phedoniarmoraciz.-2-2235. 22520 242 bee eee eee 18

Lamb’s-quarters. (See Chenopodium. )
Leaf-beetle, water-cress. (See Phedon xruginosa.)
Leafhopper, beet. (See Hutettix tenella.)

Leafhoppers and their relation to ‘‘curly-leaf” condition of sugar beet........ - 33-52

Leucania nigrofascia, bibliographic reference..-..2.225/2.-222.-51224.....---2 70

Lime, air-slaked, with Paris green, against hop flea-beetle.................... 83

remedy against water-cress sowbug, burns cress..-....-.----......----- 97

Liamnnenum sp.; parasite of Prodenia erdanias 222 e222 =o. oss e eee ee eee 63
Locust, Carolina. (See Dissosteira carolina.)

Mamestra legume. &s2 5225 oe Sea ae rs ee REE Rn eee 28-32

biologic notes: 2.029 YP Vo ee eee 29-31

control: methods ss4 6022225522232 eee eee 32

descriptive. iid: hae se td one ee eee ee eee 28-29

habits,/stummary esos. Se i ee eee ee re ere 32

larva, description. 0: Yossi See aan tee ae 28-29

moth; deseription sls we ORE Rte etree eee 28

natural enemies) 2.552 54 geee AS aie er 31

pupa, description. cot Sea Bae Re ee 29

Mancasellasbrachiyurqse Speacte <1 See Aly a eae ee 11-15

controlsmethodss 33395 6 ers a ae eerie 12-15, 97

descriptiviess ss sss sees-e Sy Aaa es Seperate Se ae 11-12

Injuriesiand remedies ~~! 5. ie he A ee 97

IMjUrLlOUS OCcUNreNGes esse eee eee eee eee 12

Mangel, food plant of Psylhades punctulata.-2... 225252-2 See ee ee eee 79

Mechanical methods against hop flea-beetle..........-.--/--.----2---:------ 87-89

Meteorus sp., host of Sipilochales spp. 3.5. ee eee eee ee ee 63

parasite of Prodeniasemdanide:s. sao 220+. see See 63

Milkweed, food, plant of Mamesira legitumass5-22 2s ee eee ee Se eee 30, 32

INDEX. 105

Page.
Mustard beetle. (See Phxdon armoracix and P. betulz.)
common black, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata...........-... 7A-75, 77
foOG Plant Of LP NLdON ATMOKACie iw see oabrs oe =e ae ass Pen 95.22) oleae 18
PE SylpOdes; DIULCHLIAEG cee 5 oe ewe eee keen OS so 77
hedge, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata..........-..--.+..+.----- 74-75, 77
wiitte; 400d -plant.of Phaedon betulsy: 2.20... «kesh arc ean. n emis feta 97
Nasturtium officinale. (See Water-cress.)
Nettle, food plant of Psylliodes punctulata: ...2... 2.2 ..22.50-.52ceee sent eeee 77, 79
Woerma xylina; bibliographic reference.....-.---.----.-2- 2. -.c0ceeceneeecesees 27
Oieraocd plant of Prodenaeridania........ <2. cbs. 2202+ eaemecoeee de cesen 53, 69
Ophion tityri, parasite of Prodenia eridania........-.-.......220..022222e renner 63
Uranpe 10nd plant of Cleor@ pampimaria: :...- 2. <22 22-2. sec ndoelsesdeueee 25
Paris green against common asparagus beetle.................-2..2...-..---- 8
Cran DentyeSMatiWOLUs ce eee Se: 3. an 2 oll age ee 26-27
|iioy oY a (ariel chet Ae ee ec oe er oe 83-85, 87, 92
ROMITKOpIGAl ARMY, WORM a2 os -4 22. sede cede ctceneee 65-69
Siriped: parden caterpillariat so). 6 Oe. fee cw sees 32
and Bordeaux mixture against hop flea-beetle...................... 83-85
flour against water-cress leaf-beetle..........-...............- 19
plaster or air-slaked lime against water-cress leaf-beetle..... - 19
water against water-cress leaf-beetle...........-...-......-- 19
dry, with air-slaked lime, against hop flea-beetle.................. 84-85
Pea moth. (See Hnarmonia nigricana.)
Heanmaoourpiant of Cord pamNpPiNana.....-- << -<<20. 2222-2 ose ect tenets ones 24, 25
Peas, food plant of Hnarmonia nigricana........-.-.-----..-0----¢2- 22222 es ee 95
Mamestra Age acl age aaa ae ae ge 28, 30, 32
Prodenia ornithogalli. . Ae er ees Fat ee eee We) te 30
iis Pianipaipis ONttaAGIsther Shee as Gone ss Oe ia cet See eects. tees 95-96
Penner. tood plant: ot Prodenitea eridanid..- <2 -+- > = 222-s--27¢-<es-s dee ~s 2.22 53, 69
iPeriintiis scwarey (2); parasite.or Wpitrix.- 22-2. .2s.-2-. 62.2226. -24--..---- 82
Pinyotetaass-0 3 ee eee... ee 82
Psy liiodes punevulaide 2 eee eee... «2's Jc Soe 82
LOL SRG Ts 0 T0537 | 16-20
beetle, desenpiion: = 22222_26) tent See Ae 16-17
Comtrolmmmeunods- 2-7. 24.0 Oat etal Sere 2 tl Bk 19-20
CASS Cll 010 see ore OS SO ee on ee ee 16-18
Cope Use ni ONee = newer ste: are tee 8 is 17
DUT ye LOTTI cree eee ee gers lt wood He is Lite 96
14.0) Se oe en ee a JAS ea. re Se 18-19
IMIUMIOUE OGCURLENCEL <- oee co ose ac ce ee ete nse ece 16
ey GCC EIDD OM sen eee wc ca Go Sack Shas sb ext Sedo cma sone ily
Meo eee fe aes kd wo a's ooo nO a a ee oom 18
Limonene Gris Ue SVNONVM 5.222555 26.22 2a 20 oaack ee ae 18
Ropar OereiinOte res 4025.5 don Wen. Lx do. d ane See eee 18
ROT ACES mA ee eet Se ee a EE os Pe eee 18-19
SNA ORD VGA Saree carat anlnt ta aaa Stns lame Nata Persea esas, Rae a 18
Deni SE YELOOTG OF MOTEL... < <2 os. ook 22 se soe sass oe Se 18-19
CARRS MUG LAN Ce escent sos a Less Yee ae ee 97
cochlearix Fab., distinct from Phedon armoraciw.................---- 18
Phalxna phytolacce, bibliographic nelerence = J. -w2c.4/ 5 25a oe ee 70
— SP TORETAG EMOANUE§ 2. dae wkd Daca ea 1 See ee SO Eee 57
Phlepsius irroratus, mistaken determination of Putettix strobi.................- 49
Eby itometa, host of Perilitus schwar2t (2). 2... 2.60. - 20 deecesdedeen evoneves 82

Phytolacca decandra. (See Pokeweed.)

106 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.

Page
Pigweed. (See also Amaranthus retroflexus.)
food ‘plant of Psyllwdes punetilata_.. (2 22st 222 42 2 te ee 79
Plagiodera cochleariz Panz., Gyll.=Phxdon armoracix.......-.---------:------ 18
UIOIS—IPNEAOn en gUnOSGee nse eee ee eee eee ee eee eee eee 18
Podisus maculiventris, enemy of Prodenia eridania.......-...----------------- 64
Pokeweed, food plant of Prodenia eridania.....-...-.-.-------------- 53,58, 61-62, 69
MOthy MAMeMOR rOden arena Tite = A eee 57
Polistes aniutans, enemy ol -Prodeniu ermdantas.-- 55-4105 eee eee eee 64
Poliypecasp., parasite ol Pegomya planipalprs=--c. eee ee eee ee 96
Ponti rape, enemy of Prodeniaierdamia: - 2. seen 2 ee ne oe ee 64
Potato flea-beetle, European. (See Psylliodes cffinis.)
food -plant-ol Prodeniaventdanta se eee a oe ee ee ee 53, 58-59, 69
Psyliiodes punctwlata. <2... see 3 te eee ee 77, 79
“Pretty cutworm,’’ manuscript name for Mamestra legitima.........--------- 30-31
PEROGLTUME CRUAMIUUS Saad Se henry tes Ae tre oe OSE, Soe Se eee 53-70
bibliogta phic Nste2s 4-32 asc 2 oe oe see eee oe ene 70
control: method ses 4.6 32s sees oe ee ee 65-69
esCHptivies oo. 224.55 Sore. ae ae se eee ee eee ee ee 54-57
distritbation.2o¢- 2 sooo coats nee ee ee 57
early records: sa.5-2 Ses. oe eee ee eee e ere 62
eso: ‘deseription: =a 6 10s ke aa nee Coen sn a eee 54
funpous diseases 3.25. 92.28 Sees oer ee eer ee 65
generations! 2.) heat APs Sake eee ee eee 62-63
historyccs See yee PS ee. Sa Bae eee ee eee 57
injury tovtruck crops). #22 s.--o- -case see ee eee 53-70
larval stages) description. +024. eeetesss seeeeees = oe aa 55-57
life-cycle periods: .. 22.52. s2ers 25222 2 ee ee eee 62-63
literatures ..23.,0 22-54 2. - gcse Soe eee eae eee eee 57-58
moth, description:... 222.5: Jie eese ese oe See 54
natural emenoies Ws 2:22.25 ee ean ce a eo eee eee 63-65
OU Tae tte a he Fe ire Se ty ey ee 57
parasites’. 20200 ee Oe ts Ce ee eee 63
predgceous: enemies< 12 \ teen si 2a eee cee eee ree 64-65
Prodenia nigrofasca Hulst a synonym........-.--..-----=--- 54
pilpa, Geseriptionise fe! 22208 Doe See eee ee 59
summary 352 shoe Buco. CS Eee ee ee ee eee 69
migrofascira’ ot Elulst—=Prodenza*eridamige - ai se. era eee eee 54
ornithogalli, association with Mamestra legitima in damage to garden
CROPS. sie ie rs echt na epee ne ere eee cle ae ono 30
nhytolacex, bibliographic references: (2-22 cen .ties eee eee 70
Psylliodes affinis, the European potato flea-beetle...............---..----+----- 81
attenuata, the European hop flea-beetle...-......-..--.------------ 81
chrysocephala on edible crucifers in Europe, habits. ..........------ 81-82
convexior, comparison with Psylliodes punctulata......-...-.-------- 73
on Bursa bursa= pastoris. a= cana eee eee eee 81
notes 'on Various'species:..£225 224-6 <2... 8¢ eee ae ee See 81-82
UCL Ulett al sah as ctaors whore ee PO Sn pee eee ree 71-92
adult. habits oo. ce jos oe ce ee ee eee eer 79-80
bibliography... .)22: fo -ee. ac ae eee ee ee 91-92
control: methodsy. 225-552 So. e ce cee eee ee 83-91

GeseripVGls 322 ht sates tee tes es eee ee eee 72-73

INDEX. 107

Page
weylliodes punciulaia, development... .-.... .ss.t. ues deste eee ee ee ee 81
Gist bwWOn es. oh: ere eS RRR eee ses sce. eee ie
CO Pian ryeta Sele Stet Mare lak lacie Steps ertagetad soe sia alsin Se ec 80
FOOGLHS DIAS 2.2% <5. 34 Sheeler eee atae SE UPIR ISL Sk 76-77
Penerahonse ee SRC se. eee Pe ar i s,s 78
AE. a okis seres cheno ts ee ae Se eee SARE ey ee 79-81
host of Perilitus schwarzii (?)............-.---++e+0-2e--- 82
MOGUM CS, MOCOND.) 2. sco icc. ean oe Oe Sse eeeee eee 73-76
larva abs: cc8hs Gee cols te. 2 a eee 80
Inka history seb ch cs eee elke 79-81
IpORaGRe Sesto ok co cya ee oek ec cost: ES Lee 91
local conditions affecting abundance. -..................-- 82
FR EUBOUAN OL AULACK EP cee a s25 2 .58-s) 1.26 be eee ae eee 76-77
DUP aiere see acne ais a rare nee eee ee eee ee 80-81
SUMMA C2. seenisee ai scfse 6 Sak si Seer ee hea eee 92
Quayle, H. J., account of life history and habits of Psylliodes punctulata....... 79-81
Maen, food plant of Pegomya planipalpis..si2cecees Shee est See tsees ses. shee 95-96
SUL OOCS DUNCTH LONG. 225 oa. e. eo = shea aae. Jot weak 77
Rape, food plant of Mamestra legitima. .......... 0... 000.2 cede eee cece eee 30, 32
Prodenia ornithogalli ..........-..-- pate SP apt Se 30
*Raps-erdfloh.’’ (See Psylliodes chrysocephala. )

Resin-fishoil soap with arsenate of lead against hop flea-beetle..............-. 83-84
striped garden caterpillar... . . 32
soap and arsenate of lead against common asparagus beetle...........--- 8-9
Washapainst- hop lea-beetle.-=t=iutewscev< sloee. 2. Sees ct es eae deed e es 86

Rhubarb flea-beetle. (See Psylliodes punctulata.)
toodyplant/of Psyllodes punehata. on 'oe 2. Seaweed e sae oe. ee VL ei
Holling; remedy against beet: leafhopper-..--...-.......-..--.:-2.2....-.22-. 48
hoprilea-beeties: beta: het. 4. co see. we ss = 228 87-88
Hen marcot, a new one from the West......-.....:2:--:.s2s2222e...- 2-2 e ee 95-96
Peer Gn pian Ole MMpPOaSR.=.U.5. 222 nescenet sidclones ot chat dees.-.- 22248 5]

Rumex. (See Dock.)
Russell, H. M., and Chittenden, IF’. H., paper, ‘‘The Semitropical Army Worm
RE TReaerinanid OAM)” op occobes costae kec Oust. $2 ogc sce esdeec..-. 2.2 eek 53-70
Russian thistle. (See Thistle, Russian.)
Ruta-baga, food plant of Mamestra legitima..............:............---.---- 30,32

Prodenmaornuthogdltes:- 2 65 2./. 2424 oder. sod ee ewe 3
Salt-marsh caterpillar. (See Estigmene [Leucarctia] acrxa.)
marcobarus, food plant of Hutetiic tenella...... 2.02220 cc cece eee e ee eee eee eee 35
Scheele’s green against hop flea-beetle...................----.----202eeeeeee 83-85

Schilbeodes. (See Catfish.)

Sea-blite. (See Dondia.)

MEMASIA MGTICANA— ENATMONU NUQTICONG.... 2. -00- 2-2 2c eee on ee ence cee eee eeee 95
Shad scale. (See Atriplex confertifolia. )

Shepherds’ purse. (See Bursa bursa-pastoris.)

Sheets, tarred, against hop flea-beetle..........................--02------- 83, 88-89

Snuff, against hop flea-beetle. . ape Os Sago Sian a Ue oe 83
Solanum, wild, food plant of Prode nia Pani EP Ee ot iA E SSS 53, 60

Solidago spp. (See Goldenrod.)
Sowbug, water-cress. (See Mancasellus brachyurus.)
Spanworm, cranberry. (See Cleora pampinaria.)

108 SOME INSECTS INJURIOUS TO TRUCK CROPS.
: Page.
Spilochalcis spp., parasites of Metcorus..2 2-2. ~./s.lsace eee oe See 63
secondary parasites of Prodenia eridanta......-.-.----------- 63
Sporotrichum minimum, fungous enemy of Mamestra legitima.....--.-..------- on
Starwort, water. (See Callitricha verna.)
Stiretrus anchorago, var. diana, enemy of Prodenia eridania.......-..---------- 64
Strawberry, food plant of Cleora pampinaria. 2... 2-2-2 soe eo ee 21, 24, 25
Striped garden caterpillar. (See Mamestra legitima.)
Sulphate of copper, suggested remedy against water-cress sowbug-.-.--------- 14
Sweet potato, food plant of Prodenia eridania...........---------------- 53, 59-62, 69
Tar pan, or tarred wings, against beet leafhopper........-.-...------.------- 48
Marredicatchers acainst, hop flea-beetle 25. oa. as eee oe 88-89
Thamnotettic tenellus, bibliographie:references. -.. 22-22-2223.) ~..-22-22 sees 48
Thistle, Russian, food plant of Hutetiia tenellas wae P22 ose ee 35
Tobacco-extract acainst DOpylea=CCUlel = secre. aye sere oe een ee 86
food plant, of Mamestra: leguivma. 2.323223 2 ee eee eee 30, 32
powdered, against hop flea-beetlée... 2... 2222.22... 2-2 eee 83
Tomato, food: plant of Prodenta endaniay. «. 22233 28=2 4-2 a 9 ee 53, 58, 69
Trap crops agaist hop flea-beetle....:.-. 2224 22 See See ee 87, 92
plants in. contro! of asparagus miner. 222.2225 ee 22 4-5
Truck-crop) insects, miscellaneous notes: +=. =322 ketch eS ee 93-97
Tumbleweed. (See Amaranthus grxcians.)
Turnip, tood plant ot Mamesira legitima. 2225 2 5222 See ee eee 30, 32
Prodeniaionnuhogallin. sss 12 =e eee eee ee See 30
Psylliodes punciulaias..'.2.52 022 2 eee eee eee 771, %2
mined probably by Pegomya planipalpis:.<. 22222. 2-22 oe 96
Veronica beccabunga, food plant of Phedon armoracix.....-.------------------ 19
Verticillium, fungous enemy of Dissosteira carolina.......--..---------------- 31
Estigmene (Leucarctia) acrga...-...-.---------- 31
Mamesira legitimaee. 129622. &. 2222 = - eee 31
Violet, food plant of Mamesira lequtima.. 2.2. WPS. Se ere - 30, 32
Water-cress, burned by lime used as insecticide against sowbug..-...-.-..----- 97
food plant of Mancaseilus brachyurus... 2... -.-- 2-2 eee eee 11-12
PRLAON LPUGINOSMS. «aa - 220 tee tee ee 16
ORMOT ACE soe ses oe eee _ 19
imsects, NOtES 5... 2 os ce ls v2 Sos ee = ee 96-97
leaf-beetle. (See Phxedon xruginosa.)
method of growing to avoid damage by sowbug..........-.------- 13-14
sowbug. (See Mancasellus brachyurus.) -
Whale-oil soap against hop/flea-beetles].. 22 een ne ee eae 85-87, 92
Willow, tood jplant of Cleora pam pinariae 2 ac acm =e ela 2 Ce ne = 2) = ee 24, 25
Winthemia quadripustulata, parasite of Prodenia eridania........-------------- 63
Xylomiges phytolaccxe, bibliographic reference.........------------+-------s- 70

O

ae sy

-
=f

ee an
eae h is hs r ;

-
>
®
ME

7
iy
%
¢

7 j is

». : \
: r
‘ ie
a p ;
4 a 1)

e

4
.
= is
:

}
a
t

es [

r¢
;
|

i yo

rh
Ny

a a ee ao, OO | by ry mas * ae I Viel Eee we
a = WaMeA! (As MAsaanh y pel A aaa a‘a~ “ ies mes ‘ PNA TA - Sy .¢+. vs i a
ae Se aaa yy oa, fines ay a 11h i 24a 4 AAA Ye Ye = TT ae
a ama**A Aerts A” R = i Pp af ae Y.| Ab FE pt See ae ~*~ 4 .M@apAs. 2 aPar
Tf aan PAA aana® AAA phasarnthen aio ee ut lang, AAAanaesone daa
af, aa A aA AA aaa a pha AAAay”
aaa / a A\ AA RAA, & AA 4 aanhaaatAAh |

AMAR rn tag apAAAan pabht :
eahasn atccee’, a j creel wpb Sect pehereet Hy bAee

an
pa

aw 5
attra, Bixg

e Lae NA \ an ph
manana, wane AM Ahn oe A va

rena Lie

n
Ae a
ey Sa et es Ft ee ap
eo Ve

coment
: Bhrey f
aasaninent tee on

airy Yo!
amt eons

Bae 2 ae ‘ApARS “* = 8~
4 a A f a “i fom: SA ~s a7 : a a
~mAa%eer ; PAA LY alae) ee ere ame

Nokiey <p pAn
inne bias F sian Arae appre cus ron saeas?
canannPh Petccages A nnVAnmann 1S paar, re a> _) Refers: sssaaasi

a Pe
ima te! ~ -
AANA cf mf on, aA aa” a 74 Pe cm
~
at

Sng int i

ppPr

j lade. rege é uf be % nhnodal
naanaatas Agana AA Ay atte 3 nnn Aa!
Ayan Ae Xinat : os

rPPppprr. 9p OCir i alat.

ts | a Le r
4 P r ‘ j
|

qe ww Ae’

ey VNLIUNAMENEAT

3 9088 01267 7480