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“66 — sllinois, State Entomol onist. ~
S18 SIXTH REPORT :
ALIS is
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OF THE

SIATE ENTOMOLOGIST

(WALSH, 1. LE BARON, 4. THOMAS, 1.)

ON THE

~ Noxious ano BenericiaL Insects

OF THE

SIATE OF 2BEEN OTs.

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THE FIRST BIENSES <EPORT
BY CYRUS THOMAS, PH. D.,

STATE ENTOMOLOGIST.

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BE Qa:

To His Excellency, J. L. Beveridge, Governor of Illinois :

Srr :—I have the honor to present herewith my first report as State
Entomologist.

Iam happy to state that during the past season, and to a great ex-
tent the previous season, our State was generally less troubled with
injurious insects than the two or three years preceding 1875. It is
true that certain limited localities suffered from the depredations of
the army worms in 1875, also the wire worms and canker worms, and
a few other species; and in 1876 the orchards, vineyards, nurseries,
and small fruits suffered to a considerable extent from their ordinary
pests, and also from two or three species not heretofore troublesome in
this State; but our farmers have, as a rule, suffered less than usual,
and we have not been visited to any material extent by that terrible
pest, the chinch bug, nor have we, notwithstanding the fears of many,
been visited by that terrible scourge of the trans-Mississippi regions,
the ‘‘ Destructive Locust.” Iam glad that I can state that so far the
conclusions of entomologists in reference to the extension eastward of
the migrations of these locusts or grasshoppers have been confirmed.
I can assure you that a careful study of the character and habits of
these insects has satisfied me that the opinion first expressed by Mr.
Walsh, the first State Entomologist of Illinois, that these pests would
never invade our State, is correct. Some remarkable climatic changes
in 1874 and 1875 caused an unusual migration of this destructive
species, and also some remarkable changes in our native species, indi-
cating a disposition even among them to migrate; but the present
season shows, just as I predicted would be the case, a retrograde move-
ment to the normal condition. I therefore think it is unnecessary
for this State to take any steps in reference to protecting our agricul-
turalists against the attacks of the Western destructive grasshoppers, as
the strong probability, I might say certainty, is that they will never
visit us in sufficient numbers to do any more injury than our native
species. As to what part this State should take in any joint action
by the Western States in reference to this plague is not for me to say.

Having been for some years previous to my appointment to this
office engaged in special scientific work relating chiefly to a single
department of entomology, it became necessary for me to make a
thorough survey of the entomological field, in order to ascertain the

4

present status of economic or practical entomology, and to acquaint
myself with the progress made therein during the last ten years.

This was necessary in order that I might make use of what had
been ascertained and satisfactorily determined, and not spend time in
studying out anew what was already known.

It was also necessary, in reference to our injurious species, that I
might know what remedies had been tried, and the results of these
experiments.

Soon after entering upon this examination I became convinced that
the first and great need of our farmers and horticulturists is a manual
of economic entomology especially adapted to Illinois, something
similar to Dr. Harris’ noted work on the Jnjurious Insects of Massa-
chusetts. A large number of the injurious species of our State, and
of the adjoining States of Iowa and Missouri, have been quite thor-
oughly examined, and their history and habits fully described and
remedies suggested by Messrs. Walsh, Le Baron, Shimer, Riley, Wier,
and myself ; but these articles are distributed through the various re-
ports of the State Entomologists, Agricultural and Horticultural Trans-
actions, Practical and American Enatomologists, and various Western
agricultural and other papers. There are probably not ten persons in
Illinois who possess a full series of these reports and papers, nor a
sufficient number of them to include even the list of the most im-
portant species. The consequence of this is that those having one or two
copies of these reports, finding a species which they have some knowl-
edge of, turn to them to learn its habits and the remedies recom-
mended, but failing to find it, as it is not one of the few species men-
tioned therein, are disappointed, and lose faith in the value of the
Entomologist’s work, although it may be that the very species he is
hunting for is fully described in some report or article he does not
possess.

If a manual, or report in the form of a manual, were prepared con-
taining brief descriptions and accounts of the history, habits of, and
remedies for all our injurious species worthy of note, it would form a
permanent work of reference, and would be a basis for all future re-
ports. During the short time I have been in office I have had abund-
ant evidence of the need of such a work in the many letters of inquiry
sent me in reference to species which have been thoroughly treated
in the reports of my predecessors.

Such a work to be thoroughly and properly done requires time and
care, as we must first know what injurious species are found in Illi-
nois; and then it is necessary to ascertain their history and habits,
and what remedies have been tried, and the results, &c.; but when
done, if carefully arranged, with proper tables and indexes, explana-
tions and glossary, and thoroughly illustrated by good figures, it would
be invaluable to our farmers, orchardists, vineyardists, gardeners,
florists, and nurserymen.

Taking this view of the matter, I resolved to commence sucha work,
although fully conscious I could not complete it this year. In the
report I now present will be found that part relating to the Coleoptera

or beetles, an order which includes a very large proportion of our in-
jurious species.

5

The portion now submitted contains also the introduction which
forms a brief treatise on the insect class, giving an outline of the classi-
fication, and an explanation of such scientific terms as must neces-
sarily be used, though, so far as possible, I have used plain, unscientific
language, avoiding the use of technical terms ; it contains the descrip-
tions and brief accounts of the history, habits, and best remedies
known of something over one hundred species of Illinois insects,
which are more or less injurious to useful vegetation.

The great object constantly in view has been to make it thorough-
ly practical and useful to those for whom it was intended; and hence
J have made no attempt to advance new theories, display scientific
knowledge, describe new species or in any manner whatever present
anything for the special benefit of Entomologists or Scientists; nor
have I hesitated, whenever I could make it useful to do so, to break
over prescribed rules, mix indiscriminately generic and specific char-
acters in descriptions and to use freely the work of others, weaving
together the facts ascertained by others and myself, as well as my
own opinions and the opinions of others without stopping to mark
the ‘boundary line between them. I have aimed at two things only
in this work, to make it practically useful, and, so far as it goes, cor-
rect. That I may not do injustice to any co-laborer in this branch of
science, I will, before-concluding this letter, make proper acknowl-
edgements to all who have assisted me and from whose works I have
derived aid.

If I am continued in office I propose to finish this work as soon as
possible, and would therefore recommend that the portion now pre-
sented be properly illustrated, which can be done at comparatively
small expense, as many of the stereotypes used for Dr. LeBaron’s
fourth report can be usedin this. It should also be paged separately
and a large edition published so that it can be bound up with the
remaining portion when printed.

The report herewith presented contains also, several special papers
on species which have called the attention of our agriculturists to
them during the past two years by their numbers or the injury they
have done.

At my suggestion the State Horticultural Society at its annual
meeting in 1875 appointed a committee to confer with Profs. Forbes,
Burril and myself in reference to a plan of co-operation in the culti-
vation and management of orchards and nurseries so as best to coun-
teract the injurious insects and fungus growths attacking the plants
and fruits. A meeting was held at Prof. Forbes’s room in the Normal
University, in February 1876, Hon. O. B. Galusha and Mr. D. B.
Wier, representing the Horticultural Society, Profs. Forbes, Burril
and myself being present. Only one branch of our work was com-
pleted, a full account of which will be found in the accompanying re-
port. I think it would be well for the suggestions of that conference
to be published in the Transactions of the State Agricultural Society
that they may be as widely distributed as possible. They are made
as brief as possible and will require but few pages.

Thoroughly convinced that insect-eating birds are very valuable
aids in reducing the number of injurious insects, I feel it a duty to
call your attention to this subject.

6

The Act of May 3, 1873, ought, it seems, to afford all the protection
to birds that is needed, but that it has so far failed to accomplish this
object satisfactorily cannot be denied by any one who has taken the
trouble to look into the matter. The fault does not appear to be so
much in the law as in the parties most interested. Very many of
our farmers and orchardists not only take little or no interest in car-
rying out the law but are in fact opposed to it, being ignorant of
what is their own interest.

But here, as in reference to education, our legislators and officers
should endeavor to carry out those measures which will ultimately
be for the benefit of our people, notwithstanding their apathy in re-
gard to them.

I learn, although I have not seen the official statement, that in one
or two of the Continental countries (as France) the destruction of
birds for commercial purposes has resulted in such a manifest increase
of injurious insects, that the Commissioner of Agriculture has called
upon the officers of the various provinces to enforce the protection of
the birds.

At the conference above referred to, this subject was discussed, and
while there were differences of opinion with respect to certain species,
yet the conclusion was unanimous and emphatic that all those species
known to be beneficial should be carefully protected and their increase
promoted so far as possible. That proper discrimination in this mat-
ter is necessary cannot be doubted, and neglect to appreciate this has
been one great cause of the apathy and want of faith manifested in
reference to it.

The conference fully aware of this fact, with the assistance of Prof.
Forbes—who had been studying our birds for the purpose of reporting
at our meeting—made out a list of such species as are positively
known to be insect-eaters and beneficial. .

In order to render our law on this subject as nearly perfect as our
present knowledge will admit of, and if possible to cause its enforce-
ment, I would suggest the following amendments to the Act of May
3, 1873, entitled “Game” in Chap. 61 of the Revised Statutes of 1874.

In section 3, strike out all between the word “kill” in the second
line and the words “nor rob” in the sixth line and insert in lieu
thereof the following : “trap, net, ensnare or destroy or attempt to kill,
trap, net, ensnare or destroy any small birds or any native or wild
bird not elsewhere in this act specified—except the Cedar bird, Bal-
timore Oriole, Larger Owls, Hawks and Woodpecker usually known
as the Sap-sucker.”

In the same section insert after the word “fined” in the eighth line

the words, “tor every such offense the sum of five dollars and in addi-
tion thereto.”

In the next to the last line of said section strike out the words
“when deemed necessary for the protection of” and insert in lieu
thereof the words “if detected in the act of injuring or destroying.”

It would also probably aid in enforcing the law, to provide that
LSttcee of the amount recovered in any penal action should go to the
informer.

In order to render my work immediately beneficial to as many Ag-

(4

riculturists as possible, I have communicated freely to the agricultural
and other papers of our State, notes in regard to such insects as have
been found injurious during the time I have been acting as State
Entomologist.

In the preparation of my Manual I have drawn freely from the val-
uable writings of Dr. Harris, Dr. Fitch, Prof. Riley, Mr. Walsh, Dr.
LeBaron, Dr. Shimer, Mr. D. B. Wier, Dr. Packard and others, and
take pleasure in acknowledging here my indebtedness to the works of
these co-laborers in the Entomological field for the aid received from
them.

I have also to acknowledge my indebtedness to the following per-
sons for the aid and assistance received from them in the way of spec-
imens, information, &c., especially to Prof. Riley, State Entomologist
of Missouri, Prof. Forbes, Curator of the State Museum at the State
Normal, also to various officers and members of the State Horticultural
and Agricultural Societies, the Editors of the Prairie Farmer, Western
Farm Journal, and Western Rural, and the Agricultural Editor of the
Inter-Ocean ; Prof. Burrill, of Champaign University, Miss Emma A.
Smith and various others. Everywhere I have found those interested
in Agricultural or Horticultural pursuits, education and science ready
and willing to heartily co-operate in this, as they rightly conceive,
important work.

I have also received valuable favors in the way of trip passes from
the following railroads in our State: The Illinois Central, Chicago
and Alton, Chicago Burlington and Quincy, Chicago and North-
western, and the Chicago and Rock Island.

By this means I have been enabled to visit various portions of the
State for the purpose of ascertaining by personal examination the
operations of injurious insects and of attending the meetings of dif-
ferent Agricultural and Horticultural Societies.

As these corporations are under no more obligations to furnish these
passes than are individuals to grant similar requests, it is proper that
I should mention them as substantial favors which have been granted
me as a public officer, as I have made it arule to ask them only while
on official duty.

In closing allow me to thank you for the deep interest you have
always taken in my work, your encouragement, and your earnest de-
sire that it might prove valuable to the great interest of the State.

IT remain yours, very respectfully,
CYRUS THOMAS, State Entomologist.

HORTICULTURAL ENTOMOLOGY. *

At the annual meeting of the Illinois State Agricultural Society at
Quincy, December 1875, I presented the outline of, and arguments
in favor of a plan of co-operation among horticulturists in contending
against their insect enemies.

' After presenting the plan somewhat in detail I offered the following
suggestions:

“Before closing I will present you with a synopsis or tabulated ar-
rangement of the various divisions and sub-divisions mentioned, and
the remedies under each, in order to illustrate the plan of a paper
which I suggest be prepared under the supervision of your Society
and placed before the horticulturists and others of our State interested
in these operations. Of course it is far from complete, but will serve
to illustrate the plan suggested, which is all that is intended at
present.

HORTICULTURE.

1. Culture of the Nursery.

2. Culture of the Orchard.

3. Culture of the Vineyard.

4. Culture of the Garden.

We will take for the purpose of illustration, the “Culture of the
Orchard.”

I. CLEAN AND THOROUGH CULTURE.

La.—In Planting.

1. Select sound, healthy trees, free from insects or indications of
them, and from home nurseries.

2. Cultivate the ground at least one year previous to planting in
some crop requiring plowing ; or plow and expose to winter previous.

3. Do not plant in sod or grass; and in the timbered sections, first
clear out the stumps and logs, and clean generally.

4. Dip the roots in soap-suds before setting.
2 a.—Cultivating the Soil (including mulching, etc.)

1. Cultivate the soil in some crop requiring repeated plowings,
and that is harvested annually. Not in grass or winter wheat. Rotate.

9

2. Late fall plowing should occasionally be practiced, especially if
the canker-worm or other insect which winters in the ground has been
abundant.

3. Dig about the roots in the fall, after having cleared the surface
under the trees of rubbish.

4. Mix leached ashes or slacked lime with the mulch to be applied
immediately around the trunk; lay a few boards on the ground, etc.

3 a.---Pruning and Cleaning.

1. Cut off the small branches and twigs affected, or having eggs on
them, and burn them; also burn other trimmings.

2. Dislodge and destroy.

la. By jarring.

2a. By gathering.

3. Pick off and destroy, especially during the winter, cocoons,
pupe, ete.

4. Rub the trunk and larger branches occasionally with soap or
other substance obnoxious to the borers, etc.

5. Scrape the bark and rub with a rough brush.

4 a.—Gathering and Preserving the Fruit.

1. Gather and destroy or feed to stock, all the fruit that drops to
the ground before maturity; or that will fall before ripe with mod-
erate jarring.

2. Where this cannot be done, turn hogs or sheep into the orchard,
and allow them to eat the fallen fruit.

3. Watch for and destroy the perfect insects which escape after the
the fruit is housed, especially the codling-moths.

Il. OTHER GENERAL REMEDIES.

1. Protect and multiply insect-eating birds.

2. Encourage the raising of domestic fowls.

3. Teach children to distinguish injurious species, and employ
them in gathering them and trapping them.

4. Encourage the rearing and transportation of parasitic species.

Ill. SPECIAL REMEDIES.

Such as the various topeal applications, &c.

You can take hold of the subject, and perfect a plan of operations
somewhat similar to that proposed, varied and changed to adapt it to
what you, by experience, know to be true in reference to horticultural
operations. All may not agree as to any one point, but the opinion
of the majority can be ascertained, and this is not apt to be far wrong.
If you cannot agree among yourselves, then, as a matter of course,
there is but little hope of obtaining general co-operation.

In order to be’ more specific and directly practical, I suggest that

10

you appoint a committee, of at least three of your members, to take
this matter into consideration. As the entomological side should also
be represented, I propose, if agreeable to you, to meet with that com-
mittee, at such time and place as may be agreed upon, in order to
discuss and arrange the plan, item by item, in a concise and syste-
matic form, thus bringing in the entomological and horticultural ele-
ments. Finally, I would suggest also that Professor Burrill be re-
quested to act with us in reference to injurious fungus growths, and
Professor Forbes on ornithology.

To do this properly, would require a sitting or sittings of some
length, but the importance of the subject demands it.”

In accordance with my suggestions a committee was appointed
which has had but one sitting, which was held at Normal, in February,
1876. At that meeting the “Culture of the Nursery ” and “Orchard ”
only were considered, and the following plan suggested:

PLAN OF CO-OPORATION.

In order that the neglect of one nuseryman or orchardist may not
affect another, and as a means of gradually eradicating our insect ene-
mies, the following plan of culture is recommended to all engaged in
these pursuits:

I. IN THE NURSERY.

1. Preparing the Ground.

Ground designed for seeds, plants, grafts or cuttings, should be
cleared from rubbish and cultivated at least one year before being
used for these purposes.

By clearing of rubbish we mean the remoyal of such matter as can-
not be plowed under and converted into manure for fertilizing the soil.

In all localities where the disease known as rotten-root prevails, the
land should be cleared of all decayed and decaying woody matter at
least one year before the planting.

For cultivation we recommend thorough summer fallowing: allowing
no crop to grow upon the ground the year previous to planting.

2. Planting Grafts, Plants and Cuttings.

All grafts, ee and cuttings should be carefully examined before
planting, and those upon which any plant-lice, bark-lice, or eggs of
insects are found, should be rejected, except in special cases where
such insects or eggs can be entirely destroyed.

Where roots intended for grafting are infested by the wooly aphis
or root plant louse, we recommend immersing them for two or three
hours before planting, in very strong soap suds.*

©

&. Cultivation the First Year.

Clean and thorough cultivation of the soil from the commencement
of growth in the spring to the first day of August, is reccommended,
except that seedlings or plants which are to be taken up in autumn,
may be cultivated later, at will.

*Notr.—One of the Committee is strongly in {favor of dipping in a quite strong solution of
caustic potash or concentrated lye.

it

No grasses should be allowed to grow in the nursery, especially
perennial grasses, as they afford breeding places for various species of
white grubs, (larve of May-beetles), wire-worms, (larve of elaters),
cut-worms, (various species of agrotis), army-worms, (leucania), and
also hiding places for numerous species of leaf-hoppers.

(Mulching is not considered applicable.)

In regard to the care of the plants themselves, it is important to
keep them free from injurious insects and fungoid growths, especially
the plant-lice, leaf-hoppers and leaf mildew. As one method of
accomplishing this object we advise the application of bi-sulphite of
lime or a compound of sulphur and lime. This may be prepared: by
breaking fresh lime in small pieces and mixing together one part of
sulphur and five parts of the quick lime, the latter to be then slacked
with boiling water and stirred during the slacking. Just enough
water should be used to reduce the lime to a fine, dry powder. Apply
this when the dew is on, as soon as leaf lice or mildew appears.

(The above applies especially to the first year in the nursery.)

4. Cultivation the Second and Subsequent Years in Nursery, as Applicahle
Especially to the Apple.

A.---The cultivation of the soil to be similar to that recommended
for the first year.

B.---The trees to be kept clear of injurious insects, especially the
lesser apple leaf folder, (Tortrix malivorana), and other apple leaf
folders which fold and destroy the leaves, the only effectual remedy
being to pick and crush them; also the apple leaf crumpler, [Phycita
nebulo| which forms a little, crooked, horn-shaped case, and ties leaves
together, which should be gathered during the winter and crushed,
burned, or carried to a little distance from the trees and deposited, so
as to allow any parasites which may be in the larve to develop them-
selves. The apple leaf skeletonizer is another insect which often does
great damage in the apple nursery, and should be picked and crushed
as soon as it begins to work, in June. These insects are especially
likely to attack trees of weakened vitality ; hence the clean, thorough
culture recommended is perhaps the best known preventive. [For
remedies for borers, see “Orchard Culture.’’]

1G IN THE ORCHARD.

1. Seleeting a Site and Preparing the Soil.

Inasmuch as orchards planted in a good soil with efficient drainage,
are less subject to insect depredations and fungoid growths than those
on an uncongenial soil, it is important that such favorable site be
selected, and in such soil any preparation for the planting will be
suitable which would be the best for planting corn. The clearing of
the ground should be the same as recommended for nursery trees.

2. Planting.

Trees for planting in the orchard should be sound, healthy, free
from insects and the eggs of insects, especially bark lice, root lice,
borers, and the eggs of the white tussock moth. The root lice may be
destroyed as already indicated; but trees infested with bark-lice
should be rejected.

12

The trees should be furnished with branches low enough to partially
shade the trunks to the ground, or if not, in planting should be
leaned toward the southwest, especially for the central and northern
portions of the State. This will prevent damage to the trunks on the
southwest side, commonly called sun-scald, which inyites attacks of
the flat-headed apple tree borer, Chrysobothris femorata. ;

3. Cultivation of Orchards Previous to Bearing.

We recommend planting the orchard to corn, where practicable,
otherwise to potatoes, for six or eight years, until the trees commence
bearing; and in no case should small grains or grass be sown or
allowed during these years of preparatory growth.*

4. Treatment of Bearing Orchards.

A.---Care of soil. We recommend that perennial grasses be not
sown or allowed in orchards; but if orchardists, to diminish wood
growth and increase their crops of fruit, sow any grass-like plant, let
this be clover, as this harbors a less number of species of injurious
insects than those grasses which form a more dense mass of foliage
and a closer sod.

Late fall plowing is not advised, as a rule, yet occasional plowing
in late autumn is a valuable practice where the canker-worms, white
grubs, [larvee of the May-beetles], tarnish plant-bugs, or other insects
which pass the winter upon or under the ground, are troublesome.

Orchardists should bear in mind that continued healthy vigor of
the trees throughout their lives is essential to prevent the attacks of
injurious insects, and to enable them to resist or recuperate when so
attacked or preyed upon. If, therefore, at any time, the trees exhibit
asickly or unthrifty appearance, the soil should be manured and
cultivated.

B.-—-Mulching. Whenever mulching is applied, the portions im-
mediately about the collars of the trees should be mixed with ashes
or lime to prevent insects working there under cover of the mulch.
Mulching may be beneticial as far as insects are concerned, by giving
shelter to our insect friends---as ladyebugs, predaceous ground-beetles,
etc., or it may be harmful by protecting our enemies, especially in
seasons when insects which pass the winter in the perfect state have
been abundant. Careful examinations alone can determine its utility
in this respect. f

C.---Care of trees.

C. 1. Pruning, s0 far as relates to insects. Twigs, upon which are
found the eggs of injurious insects, should be cut off and burned,
unless they can be entirely destroyed by hand picking and crushing.

These include eggs of the tent-caterpillars, which are found three
hundred to four hundred ina bunch, surrounding the twig; eggs of
the tree-hoppers, which are found in little slits immediately beneath
the outer bark; eggs of the leaf-lice, minute shining black globules
scattered upon the twigs of the last year’s growth.

*NoTe.—The members of the Committee representing the insect side, would prefer, as far as
prevention of insect depredations alone is concerned, to continue in the orchard the clean culture
ecommended for the nursery.

13

C.—2. Cleaning the trees. In winter, care should be taken to pick
off all cocoons and nests of insects, such as nests of leaf-crumplers,
cocoons of basket or drop-worms, and eggs of tussock moths, which
are formed on the outside of deserted cocoons.

The trunks and larger branches of trees should be washed ai least
once in each year, between the middle of June, (according to latitude)
with soft soap or a strong alkaline wash. Ifa hard rain ensues soon
after the soap is applied, the application should be repeated. If these
applications have been neglected and the trees covered with rough
bark, this should be scraped off before the application is made. This
applies especially as a preventive to attacks of the flat-headed borer—
Chrysobothris femorata.

We recommend removing a small portion of the soil around the col-
lar of each tree, and placing in lieu thereof a mixture of soil and ashes
or lime, raising a slight mound. This work should be done in the
spring, before the middle of May, and the mound should be raised to
prevent the beetle from depositing her eggs so near the ground that
access to the larvee would be difficult. The soaping or washing, above
referred to, should be done previous to the mounding.

The trunks of trees, near the ground, should be examined in the
last half of September or first half of October, for the larve of the
round-headed apple-tree borer, which may be found by their saw-dust-
like castings; their burrows when found, with a knife, should be probed
with a flexible apple-sprout, which will destroy them.

The larvee of the flat-headed borer may be found in the trunk or
near the base of the largest branches, by discolored spots in the bark.
They may be readily exposed and destroyed while young in September,
by taking off a thin shaving of this discolored bark with a sharp
knife. If neglected till they have penetrated the tree it is not advis-
able to cut into the tree to destroy them.

Trees infested with bark-lice may be partially cleared of them by
washing with an alkaline wash, applied at the time the young are
hatched, which, in Illinois, is from May fifteenth to June tenth, ac-.
cording to latitude. Fine lime-dust thrown over the trees at this time
will prove efficacious in destroying them, and also plant-lice, as well
as prevent the depositing of eggs by the codling-moth.

The Tent-caterpillars, fall web-worms and others, which form webs
and nest together while young, should be carefully picked off, while
the worms are young and are in their nests, and burned or otherwise
destroyed.

For the destruction of the canker worm we recommend the rope and
tin remedy described by Dr. Le Baron. Having removed the rough
bark from the trunk of the tree, ‘“ Take a piece of inch rope---old worn
out rope is as good as new—tack one end to the trunk, two feet or less
from the ground, with a shingle nail driven in so that the head shall
not project beyond the level of the rope, bring the rope around the
tree and let it lap by the beginning an inch or two, cut it off and fasten
it in the same manner.” Get the tin-man to cut up some sheets of
tin into strips four inches wide and fasten them together endwise so
that they shall be long enough to go around the tree over the rope ;
put one of these strips around the tree outside the rope so that the

14

rope shall be in the middle of it; Jet the ends lap a little, punch a
hole through them and fasten with a nail driven through them and
the rope into the tree. | This obstruction prevents the females which
are destitute of wings, from ascending the tree to deposit their eggs
under the bark of the trunk and larger limbs, and they will deposit
them below the obstruction and generally within a few inches of it.”

These bands should be put on as early as March 1st, in the latitude
of Chicago, and proportionately earlier or later to the south or north,

As the eggs hatch before the red currant blossoms, these bands
should be taken off before this time, or before April twenty-fifth in
the latitude of Chicago, the ropes dipped in scalding water and the
trunk of the tree below it to the ground treated to kerosene oil applied
with a brush, then replace the bands.

One application of kerosene is sufficient,and will not hurt tke trees.
The fall plowing already spoken of will destroy a large portion of the
aint of this insect and when done for this purpose should be as
late as possible, and the surface left rough.

C, 8. Protection and Care of Frutt.

One preventive which we recommend for the codling-moth is the
thorough dusting of the trees with fresh lime-dust when the dew ison
and just before the blossoms have all fallen.

If done earlier it may prevent the fertilization of the blossoms, and
if delayed much later the eggs may have hatched and the larve en-
tered the fruit.

To entrap the larvee there is nothing so good as the cloth bands so
often described and recommended in the reports of the Illinois State
Horticultural Society. The trunks of the trees having been scraped
and washed, as before described, bands made, of old rags, bits of car-
pet or gunny-sacks should be fastened closely around them a foot or
two above the ground. Building paper, not tarred, folded three or four
fold and tacked around the tree is preferred by some; and even hay
eae used effectually where neither of the other materials are
available.

The bands should be applied about the first of June, and taken off
and the larve destroyed as often as once in ten or twenty days
through the entire season, because the insects are two-brooded, and some
larvee of one or the other brood may be found in the traps at almost
any time. The rags when taken off should be scalded and replaced,
the insects in the folds of the paper bands may be crushed by putting
it through a clothes-wringer or otherwise crushing them; or if hay
bands are used they should be scalded and replaced or burned and
others put on at once.

The object of applying these bands is to entrap and destroy the
lary, which will almost invariably seek these hiding places in which
to transform; but, if they are neglected at any time longer than two weeks
they will do more harm than good, as the insects will have developed with
certainty in the nests thus provided for them.

The bins or barrels in which apples have been kept in winter,
should be carefully examined before spring, and the larve or chry-
salids found in the crevices and under the hoops destroyed; also moths,
if developed, can be destroyed before they escape from the cellar.

15

Iii. BIRDS.

I. List of Those to be Preserved and Fostered.

Blue birds, titmice (chicadees), warblers, (small warbling birds
found on trees and in gardens), kinglets, (ruby-crowned and golden-
crowned wrens), nut-hatches and creepers (black, white and brown);
wrens, martins (swallows), vireos (greenlets), tanagers, finches, song
sparrow, chipping sparrow, field sparrow, clay-colored sparrow, black-
throated bunting, indigo bird, cardinal grosbeak, ground robin (che-
wink); blackbirds (crow, bobolinks, meadow lark and others); all the
fly-catchers (including king-birds and the pewee); cuckoos, night-
hawks (goat suckers and whip-poor-wills); swifts (chimney-swallows);
all the wood-peckers except the yellow-billed---sphyropicus varius---
(known in Central and Northern Illinois as the sap-sucker), and, per-
haps, also the large red-headed wood-pecker---Melawrer pes erythrocephalus,
plovers, prairie snipe [prairie plover], quail.

We also recommend to fruit growers the raising of all species of do-
mestic fowls except geese.

2. List of Birds whose Habits are not Sufficiently Known to Justify full Re-
commendation, and whose Habits are sometimes Beneficial and sometimes
Injurious.

Thrushes---including the common robin, cat-bird, mocking-bird,
brown thrasher, wood thrush, tawny thrush and hermit thrush.

Shrikes--- including the great northern shrike and white rumpled
shrike [butcher bird]; Savanna bunting, crow, blue-jay, red-headed
woodpecker, saw-whet owl screech-owl, horned lark, orchard oriole
and pigeons.

3. Last of Birds to be Destroyed.

Cedar bird, Baltimore oriole [hanging bird], larger owls, hawks and
the yellow-billed woodpecker [sap-sucker of Central and Northern
Illinois]. This species is distinguished from the other small wood-
peckers by its pale yellowish breast. a large patch of black upon the
upper part of the breast; the throat of the male is a bright red and
that of the female is white; the adults, both male and female, have
the top of the head also red. These points distinguish it from the
downy woodpecker and the hairy woodpecker which it closely resem-
bles in size and form. These two species have the outer tail feathers
white [or in the former barred with black and white], while the sap-
sucker has the outer tailfeathers black, while the center ones are nearly
white. The hairy woodpecker has a small red spot on the back of the
head only, which is easily distinguished from the red upon the head
of the yellow-billed [or sap-sucker] which extends from the beak coy-
ering almost the entire crown.

4. Beneficial Insects, their Preservation and increase.

Great care should be taken not to destroy the larve or beetles of the
lady birds (lady bugs)—small, oval, spotted, turtle shaped beetles which
pass the winter in the beetle state. They are red, with black spots or
black with red spots; the larve of these beetles are similar in shape to
that of the Colorado potato beetle, except that they are more slender,
smaller, quicker in motion, and always have spines on the back and
sides.

16

THE CANKER-WORM.

(Anisopteryx vernata Peck.)

There has been considerable complaint against this species during
the past two years and inquiries in reference to the best method of
counteracting it have been received. Not only have I been con-
sulted by citizens of our own State but have also been requested by a
Farmers Association of Michigan to give information on this subject.
Dr. LeBaron’s second Report contains a somewhat lengthy and very
excellent article on this insect, but unfortunately few copies of that
report were published, and the supply was exhausted long before I
entered into office. As it is now impossible to obtain a copy of that
report I will present here such extracts from the article alluded to as
I think most likely to meet the inquiries made and most valuable,
mentioning at the end such additional facts and suggestions as may
appear proper.

“The Canker-worm is a native*American species, and is one of the
longest known of our noxious insects. The earliest record of its his-
tory that I have met with is printed upon a discolored scrap of an old
book, the title of which is lost, which was sent to me by Mr. Jonathan
Huggins, of Macoupin county. As the extract is brief and is worth
preserving on account of its antiquity, I here describe it:

““CanKER-Worms.-—-In the year 1789, the Rev. John Cushing, of the
county of Worcester (Mass.), communicated to the Academy of Arts
and Sciences, a method to destroy Canker-worms in the egg. It is as
follows: In autumn, before the ground be frozen, take an iron bar
and make a number of holes in each tree, near the body; throw a few
kernels of corn into each; let in swine; and they will root the ground
over, which will not only disturb the eggs deposited in the ground as
to destroy them, but it will be very salutary to the trees. Nothing is
better to make apple trees flourish than to have hogs turn up the
ground under them.

“This method (added Mr. Cushing) I had from Mr. Edward Ray-
mond, of Sterling, who has tried it with success.’

“The practical advice given in this extract is by no means devoid
of value, but the writer has fallen into error of mistaking the chrys-
alids of the insect for its eggs.

“But like other widely spread noxious insects, the Canker-worm
has had its seasons of increase and decrease. It was very abundant
in Massachusetts seventy years ago; subsequently it became almost.
unknown in the State for many years. It issaid to have disappeared
after a very heavy frost in the month of June, which killed the cater-
pillars. But this is hardly probable of so hardy an insect as the
Canker-worm. They appear to have been numerous in the vicinity
of Boston in the year 1840, and several preceding years; but Dr.
Harris states that from 1841 to 1847 they almost disappeared from
that section, but they rapidly increased again after the last men-
tioned date.

“Tt is remarkable that several of our noxious insects which are des-
titute of the means of locomotion, have become the most widely spread
over the country. This is the case with the Oyster-shell Bark-louse,

re

the White-spotted Tussock-moth, and the Canker-worm, in all of
which the female is destitute of wings. The Canker-worm appears to
have been first known as a noxious insect in New England, but it has
now become spread over all the Northern and Western States, as far
west as Iowa, and as far south as Missouri. I have received, the past
season, accounts of serious damage done by them from Clinton, Wis-
consin, and DuQuoin in the southern part of [linois, and from several
intermediate places. Reports of their injuries have also been com-
municated to the Department of Agriculture at Washington from
Norfolk county, Massachusetts; from several counties in Ohio, and
from Jefferson county in Iowa. In these communications they are
sometimes designated as the Measuring-worm, and sometimes as the
Black span worm. But, as might be expected from the wingless char-
acter of the females, their distribution is very unequal and apparently
arbitrary, a common road sometimes serving for years as a barrier be-
t ween a free and an infested orchard.”

DESCRIPTION*

“The moths are of a pale gray color, and have no conspicuous mark-
ings. The wings of the male are of a very thin and flexible texture,
and are usually seen more or less denuded of their scales. The
females, as already stated, are wingless. They vary in length from two
to five-tenths of an inch. Their color is produced by short black hairs
and scales, on a whiteish ground. The thorax is hoary, usually with
a distinct transverse black line or narrow band. Some individuals
have a distinct black dorsal stripe extending the length of the body,
but this is usually interrupted, and often obsolete, or wanting. Their
general color isso similar to that of the bark of the apple tree that
they are easily overlooked when not in motion. The proboscis is ob-
solete in both sexes; and these insects take no food in their imago
state.

“The natural history of these insects may be briefly stated as fol-
lows: The female deposits her eggs upon various trees, but mostly
upon the apple trees and the elm. These eggs hatch the latter part
of April or beginning of May, or at about the time of the flowering of
the red currant—the time varying a week or two, according to latitude
and character of the season. The caterpillars feed upon the foliage,
and are often so numerous as to desolate whole orchards of apple trees
or whole parks of elms. They attain their full growth in about one
month, when they let themselves down by a thread, and burrow from
two to six inches into the ground. There they assume the chrysalis
state, and remain, with a few exceptions, through the winter, and
until the first mild weather of spring releases them by removing the
snow and frost from the surface. They immediately make their way
to the nearest tree and crawl up its trunk. The winged males are
now seen fluttering about the wingless females, and, after pairing, the
“females deposit their eggs and perish, thus completing the circle of
their existence.

‘““The female*canker-worm moths differ much in size, varying, as we
have stated, from two to five-tenths of an inch in length, and the
number of eggs laid by each individual varies accordingly. J have

E—2

18

found in the smallest moths only fifteen or twenty eggs, whilst the
largest contain from one hundred and forty to one hundred and fifty,

“ As the season for laying eggs is now past, I have made a number
of examinations with a view of determining definitely where the eggs
are deposited. Whilst the moth of the tent-caterpiller covers hereggs
with a water-proof varnish, and deposits them on the exposed twigs,
the canker-worm moth does not so protect her eggs, and only secretes
enough of a glutinous fluid to stick the eggs to the bark. She, there-
fore, always seeks some other protection, and this is furnished al-
most exclusively by the loose scales of bark. In accordance with this
statement, no eggs are found on the twigs or the small smooth branches.
Dr. Harris states that the eggs are deposited ‘in the forks of the small
branches, or close to the young twigs or buds.’ But 1 must conclude
that Dr. Harris did not make this statement from his own observa-
tion. I have recorded above, that in cold or stormy weather the female
moth, after she has ascended the tree and passed out upon the
branches, often seeks the slight and only available shelter afforded by
the forks of the twigs, and it was natural to expect that she would
deposit her eggs there. But if she ever sodeposited them, it must be
very rarely and exceptionable. After a diligent search, with the aid
of a lens, on several different occasions, upon heavily infested trees, I
have never succeeded in finding any of the eggs in this situation, nor
elsewhere under the scales of bark, with the solitary exception above
referred to, of the protection afforded by the crumpled leaves and cones
of Phycita nebulo.*

“A corroboration of this view is furnished by a remark of my corres-
pondent, Mr. J. Tinker, of Wisconsin, who, speaking of these insects
which have been very destructive upon his place, incidentally re-
marks: ‘They do not bother small smcoth barked trees, either in the
nursery or orchard.” I may here add that, in a subsequent letter, Mr.
Tinker stated that he had found the eggs of this insect in the dried
apples which had adhered to the tree though the winter.

“T have already referred to the fact that the moths deposit their
eggs almost exclusively upon the inner surface of the loose scales of
bark, and not upon the body of the tree. Why they should always
attach their eggs to the dead bark over them, it is difficult to conja c-
ture, but that they do so, puts them, to a great extent, at our mercy.
For it is evident that by scraping off the dead bark on the trunk and
branches any time between the laying and the hatching of the eggs,
so large a proportion of the eggs will be destroyed that the compara-
tively few which escape will not be numerous enough to effect any
serious amount of damage. The bark and eggs thus scraped off should
always be caught upon a sheet or number of newspapers and burned.

“Natural Enemies.—These insects have been observed to be des-
troped by birds, by a number of predaceous ground beetles, and by
species of parasitic flies. My own observation upon this branch of the
subject have been very limited, and mostly of a negative character. I

““*NotTe.—An interesting instance of this habit of the canker-worm moth was communicated
to me by Mr. Elmer Baldwin. He stated that at one time his orchard became infested with these
insects, and that at the same time the leaf-crumplers were very numerous and troublesome, and
that the moths availed themselves of the shelter thus afforded for the deposition of their eggs
to such an extent that he regarded it as one of his most efficient modes of getting rid of the canker-
worms to gather and destroy the crumpled nests of Phycitae, thus destroying two noxious insects
by the same operation. i

19

have seen no natural enemies preying upon them to any appreciable
extent. I have seen black ants carrying canker-worms down the
trunks of the trees, sometimes larger than their own bodies, but only
in occasional instances.

‘“‘T have also seen, under the same scales with the eggs, large num-
bers of asub-globular, smooth, brownish black Acarus or mite. This is
similar to and perhaps identical with the species referred to by Dr.
Packard, under the name northrus ovivorus, and which he says he has
seen sucking the eggs of the canker-worm. My correspondent, Mr.
Tinker, also called my attention to them, and said he suspected that
they destroyed the eggs, as he had observed some of these to be shrunk-
en where the mites were present. Ihave repeatedly examined these
Acari, bat have never detected them in the act of sucking the eggs. I
have also kept quantities of eggs and acari shut up together in a box
for days, but in due time the eggs nearly or quite allhatched. Ihave
also found the same acari in equal numbers under bark where there
were no canker-worms. My own observations, therefore, do not lead
me to attach much importance to them as canker-worm destroyers.

“Remedies.--The following remedies against this insect are given in
the order in which they are to be applied, commencing with the ap-
pearance of the moths in the spring:

“Ist. Prevent the passage of the moths up the trees. The most ap-
proved plan heretofore used, is to put a canvass or other cloth band,
six inches or more wide, around the trunk and besmear it with a mix-
ture of tar and molasses, applied every other day. Roofing felt be-
smeared with refuse printers’ ink has been recently suggested as
preferable. The method suggested in this Report is, to put a band of
rope or closely twisted hay around the trunk, and over this a tin band
about four inches wide, placed so that the rope shall be at the middle
of the tin, making a closed cavity below and a free edge of the tin
above. The time to use these appiiances is, mostly in the month of
March ; but also at other times when the weather is sufficiently open
to permit the insects to run.

‘Od. Ifthe moths are prevented from ascending the tree they will
deposit their eggs below the obstruction, and for the most part near
to it. These eggs can be destroyed by a single application of kerosene
oil.

‘3d. If the moths are not prevented from ascending the tree they
will deposit their eggs mostly on the under side of the loose scales of
bark on the upper part of the trunk and large branches. Many of
these can be destroyed by scraping off and burning the scales.

“Ath. If all precautions have been neglected, and the eggs have
been permitted to hatch, then as soon as the worms are large enough
to be easily seen, jar them from the trees and sweep them away with
a pole, as they hang by their threads, and burn or otherwise destroy
them. Strong washes, such as Paris-green water, or suds made from
the whale oil soap, thrown upon the trees with a garden syringe, will
also materially check their depredations.

“5th. If the worms have matured and gone into the ground for
winter quarters, plow the ground late in the fall, so as to expose the
pupae to the frost and the action of natural enemies. The effective-

20

ness of the plowing will be increased if a few handfuls of corn be
plowed in under each tree, and the hogs be permitted to have range
of the orchard.

“The method of putting on the tin and rope bands mentioned in the
first paragraph is very simple. Take a piece of inch rope---old worn-
out rope is just as good as new---tack one end to the trunk, two feet or
less from the ground, with a shingle nail, driven in so that the head
shall not project beyond the level of the rope; bring the rope round
the tree and let it lap by the beginning an inch or two; cut it off,
and fasten it in the same manner. Get the tin man to cut up some
sheets of tin into strips four inches wide, and fasten them together
end-wise so that they shall be long enough to go round the tree over
the rope band, having the rope at the middle. Let the ends of the
tin lap a little, punch a hole through them and fasten them with a
nail driven through the tin and rope into the tree.”

It is evident that if any practical method of preventing the wing-
less female from ascending the trunk of the tree can be invented, this
insect can be brought under control and its ravages prevented. As
the reader is already aware, this is the object of Dr. LeBaron’s rope
and tin bands. The rope is chiefly to hold the tin bands off from the
tree, thus rendering the ascent more difficult, and the tin band should
have the broader over-lapping margin below. The rope is also of ad-
vantage as its spongy nature allows the water which runs down the
trunk to pass through and thus not streak the tin as would be the
case if tacked on the bark, thus providing points of easier access for
the moths. It should therefore not be tarred except where necessary
to stop some hole through which the moth might make her way up-
wards, a point which must be carefully looked after.

This is perhaps the most complete bar to their ascent that has yet
been suggested, and apparently at least, falls but little short of per-
fect. When the moths are very numerous it is more than probable
that they will accumulate under the rope, and climbing over each
other a few may cross the tin if it is rusty.

But other remedies which will aid this should not be neglected. If
they have appeared in considerable numbers before the precaution
has been taken, turn hogs and chickens in the orchard about the time
worms begin dropping to the ground to enter it; these will destroy a
great many and thus lessen their number. Then, late as possible in
the fall, plow up the ground so as to expose the chrysalids to the frost
and cold; this will lessen the number still further so that if securely
banded and carefully watched in the spring the orchardist may 1n one
year succeed in entirely eradicating them.

But the great difficulty appears to be to get those who have or-
chards to enter upon this work of extermination in good earnest.
Some who have extensive orchards say the cost is too great, they pre-
fer to run the risk of losing their trees, hoping for some climatic or
other change which shall cause them to depart. Others who make
their orchards matters of but secondary consideration cannot spare
the time to protect them and so leave them to their fate. So by these
two extremes, these and other pests are perpetuated in a neighbor-
hood where they might be exterminated without extraordinary effort
or unusual expense. It would be well, perhaps, to give to townships

21

the power to declare badly infested orchards nuisances and order them
cleared of their pests, if possible, at the owner’s expense or cut down
and burned.

There is at the present day no justifiable excuse for allowing an
orchard to be overrun by Canker-worms for three or four years in
succession, when by proper management they may be overcome in one
year.

It was formerly supposed that the moths came out only in the spring ;
this it is true is their normal habit, but it is now well known that
many appear late in the falland early in the winter. In mild and
open weather they can be found in every month from October to
March ; but as a general thing those which come out in winter appear
chiefly between the middle of October and first of December and
again between the middle of February and middle of March. Those
who have been observing them carefully assert that if hard frosts
come early, the Canker-worm moth will appear early, and if the frosts
are late they will be late. Asa matter of course the larger portion
remain in the ground until spring, and the preceding remarks apply
only to that portion which comes out in the winter.

The following items bearing upon this subject are here introduced
as data to be used in forming conclusions.
The first is from a letter of inquiry to the Western Rural:

““When a school boy some sixty-five or seventy years ago, | went
with my brush and tar-pot day after day, toward evening, tarring ap-
ple-trees to catch or stop the millers from going up the trees to lay
their eggs. In those days we put the tar on the bark of the tree, a
little band around the body. This was done for weeks in early spring
when the millers came out of the ground. In later days the citizens
of New Haven put a trough of sheet lead around their elm trees and
filled it with oil, the worms being very destructive to the foliage of
the elm.

I am an old man, in my seventy-ninth year. I livedin my native
State, Connecticut, over fifty years; in Wisconsin twenty-seven. A
farmer by occupation from childhood, a lover of fruit, I came in pos-
session of my grandfather’s farm and several apple orchards of choice
fruits.

Some years our apple-trees were entirely divested of their foliage by
the Canker-worm. One year after they were badly eaten, I tarred my
orchard. In one of them that was eaten I caught no millers and the
foliage was not eaten at all, while all of my other orchards were badly
eaten. I could account for thisorchard not being eaten only because
I plowed it (as we termed it, summer fallowed it) the last of June, after
the worm had left the trees and burrowed in the ground; I afterwards
cross plowed it and sowed it with rye. The next year] hada good
crop of appleson this orchard, and on my ether orchards none.”

WIRE-WORMS. (THE GRUBS OR LARVAE OF ELATERS.)

January, 1876, I received the following letter from L. B. Carlin, Esq.,
Treasurer of Macoupin county, written, as will be seen, on behalf of
the farmers of that county:

“Tam requested by the Grange of which Iam a member to write to
you for information upon the little pest called wire-worm. We have

22

no copies of the reports of the State Entomologist, and do not know
where to apply for them. In this locality the corn crop was damaged
many thousands of dollars the last year by wire-worms—owing to the
fact that we could not get. stands till the excessively rainy weather
set in, and our corn that had been replanted was too small to stand
the rain. If you have any published information on this subject,
please let me know where it may be obtained; if not, please give us
an article in the Prairie Farmer on this little pest. Some of our mem-
bers have tried soaking the seed in various solutions, with indifferent
results, and from what information we can arrive at among ourselves,
it is hard to come to any settled conclusion.”

As requested, I answered through the Prairie Farmer, and by letter
also. As no full account of these pests has been given in any of our
Western entomological reports, I present the following, much of which
is defived from Dr. Fitch’s exhaustive article on the wire-worms in
his Eleventh Report. LIalso add some additional facts from my own
observations, and suggest some remedies not found in Dr. Fitch’s ar-
ticle, which I believe to be more valuable than he mentions.

The worms are the larve or grubs of a: group or family of beetles,
known to the entomologist as Elaters (Klateridx), but recognized
generally by the common name, “Skip-jacks,” “ Snapping-bugs,”
“ Spring-beetlers,” “ Click-beetles,” etc. They are known to every
one who has felt sufficiently interested in the smaller works
of creation to notice insects, by the curious method they adopt to re-
cover their upright posture when they chance to fall upon their backs.
Their legs being too short to assist them in turning over, nature has
provided them with another means of regaining their proper position,
which is described in the previous part of this report. This is opera-
ted by a sudden jerk aud spring, accompanied by a clicking sound
hence the common names, each of which has reference, in some way
to this operation.

This group of insects is quite extensive, more than 500 North
American species having been determined, about one-tenth of which
are found in Illinois. As the larve of all of these species are wire-
worms, it is evident that there must be several different kinds, which
though strongly resembling each other in general appearance and
character, differ in detail and habits. A large number of them are
found in the ground, where they feed upon the roots of the grasses and
grass-like plants; others reside under the loose bark of diseased and
decaying trees, and in decaying stumps, feeding, as has generally
been supposed, upon the putrid wood, but possibly upon per etrating
or fungus growths.

A close examination of specimens of various sizes, and those taken
from different situations, even where there is but little variation in
size or general appearance, reveals some very marked differences.
Most of them show an impressed or indented line along the middle of
the back, but in some this is wanting. The surface is generally punc-
tured or covered with minute impressed points; but sometimes is quite
smooth. But the most marked difference is to be found in the form
and structure of the last segment.

In some specimens, the last segment is simply conical, obtusely
rounded at the tip, without divisions, notches or punctures; in others,

23

‘the form is the same, but in the back, near the base, are two conspic-
uous punctures ; others have this segment simply conical and pointed,
ending in a single sharp spine. Others have the tip flattened and
rough, with its edge showing three or five tooth-like points or angu-
lar projections. These four different forms have the segment much
longer than wide, and the worms to which they belong are slender
and cylindrical, being very narrow in proportion to their length.
Each is roundly notched at the end; some simple, with smooth mar-
gins and the sides of the notch prolonged into sharp spines, which
are usually curved upward. Others have the back of the segment
flattened and rough—the lateral margins elevated, with three or more
teeth on each side.

While these differences indicate specific, and probably generic char-
ters, in the perfect insects, and probably some difference in larval
habits, yet, practically, they are of but little value, as all the species
which reside in the ground have the same general manner of life, as
far as known.

The time and place when and where the female deposits her eggs
has not, as far as I am aware, been observed; but they are doubtless
deposited in the ground, at the roots of grass and other plants; the
known habits of the larve and the attenuated and tapering abdomen
of the perfect insect would indicate that such is the case. Dr. Fitch
informs us that he once observed a female Elater (Ludius brevicornis)
at the root of a recently-set cabbage plant, where she sunk herself
down into the earth the whole length of her body, her swollen abdo-
men showing she was on the point of depositing her eggs. Having
captured and confined this female, she deposited 126 eggs, which were
of a broad oval form, very small, measuring only three-hundredths of
an inch in length, smooth, glossy, and of an opaque whitish color.

The length of time these worms require to complete thei growth
has never been ascertained, at least it isa matter yet in controversy
between entomologists. Bjerkander, a Swedish naturalist, in his ac-
count of the wire-worms, published nearly one hundred years ago,
asserted that they are five years coming to the perfect state. This
has been accepted by most entomologists until recently. Dr. Fitch,
in the article referred to, and from which I have drawn so largely,
says that he is of the opinion that:as a general rule these worms are
only two years growing to maturity. This opinion he bases upon
two facts: First, that the worms received were of two sizes only, the
smaller ones about half the size of the larger, indicating but two
broods, the one two years old, the other but one, whereas if they re-
main in the larva state five years there ought to have been more than
two sizes. Second, where explicit statements are given of crops des-
troyed by wire-worms, this destruction always occurs the first and
second year after the ground has been broken up from grass. Since
this opinion was expressed Mr. Pettit, of Canada, has succeeded in
rearing an elater (Agriotes mancus) to the perfect state, not from the egg,
but from a stage sufficiently early to satisfy him that its larval state
does not exceed three years. His acount of his observations are so in-
teresting and important that I insert them here from the Canadian
Entomologist, (vol. iv.)

“Tn the fall of the year 1870, so unusual an amount of damage was
inflicted upon the wheat crops in this vicinity by this wire-worm that

®

24

I was led to try and breed it to the perfect state, with a view to ascer-
taining what species it was the larva of. By digging about the roots
of wheat plants I obtained about a dozen specimens, which were
placed with a few wheat plants in a large flower pot where they were
kept supplied with food by planting occasionally a small quantity of
wheat. With the first cold weather they ceased to eat, and were then
placed in a sheltered situation until the return of warm weather in
the spring, when they were restored to the breeding cage. They soon
gave evidence of being alive, and possessing unimpaired appetites ;
their rapid consumption of the wheat plants rendered it necessary to
renew the supply quite as often as before. They were fed in this way
until the month of July, when my absence from home caused them to
be neglected; on my return there was not a vestige of food left.
Thinking that the worms had probably died of starvation, I paid no
further attention to them until the 26th of August, when on remoy-
ing a part of the earth from the pot a pupa was disclosed, and on the
third of September the first imago appeared, which proved to be a
specimen of Agriotes mancus, say. As only two more specimens came
out during the remainder of September, I turned the earth out of the
pot and carefully examined it ; the inspection revealed some seven of
the imago in the little cells in which they had transformed, and one
larvee.

“ Among the larve collected I had noticed one less than half the
size of the others, and evidently much younger, which would account
for the one still in the larval state. It had attained, however, a size
fully equal to that of the others when first brought in during the pre-
vious autumn, and hence I have formed the opinion that the larve
state does not last longer than three years. This opinion has since
been strengthened by the observation of a large number of larval,
which appeared readily separable into two sizes, corresponding to
those originally collected for breeding. Westwood, in his ‘ Modern
Classification of Insects,’ states respecting the larva of an allied species
(A. obscurus), which in Europe feeds upon the roots of wheat, rye, oats,
barley and grass, that, according to Bjerkander, a Swedish naturalist,
‘it is five years arriving at the perfect state.’

“Curtis, in his ‘ Farm Insects’ (page 161), makes a similar state-
ment upon the same authority, and adds that those which he had
himself been feeding for ten or twelve months scarcely increased in size
during the time. As already stated, however, I am of the opinion
that our species are by no means so long lived, but that it attains ma-
turity in three years—a period quite long enough, the agriculturalist
must think, in which to inflict damage upon the crops.”

As will be seen from this extract, Mr. Pettit is of the opinion that
they are three years in arriving at the perfect state.

The name obtained renders it evident that the species which reside
in the ground enter the pupa state in the latitude of northern IIli-
nois, perhaps, as a general rule, in July or the beginning of August.
Bjerkander states that the worms which he reared entered the pupa
statein July. Mr. Curtis says that when the worm arrives at maturity it
descends to a considerable depth in the earth, forms an oval cell there,
of the particles of soil, and becomes a pupa about the last of July or
the beginning of August. Dr. Fitch, as I infer from his article, fuund
several pup on the 26th of July, and Mr. Pettit discovered a pupa in

25

the latter part of August, which soon after was transformed into a per-
fect insect making it evident it had entered this state early in that
month.

The worms, as befcre stated, are very slender, the smaller species
scarcely exceeding a knitting needle in diameter, yet half an inch or
more in length; while the larve of our largest species is as thick as a
goose quill and two inches long. The smaller and ordinary species
which reside in the ground are mostly cylindrical, while the larger spe-
cies are slightly flattened. They are of equal size throughout, the head
and last segment being narrowed, the cross sutures between the seg-
ments are but slightly impressed, and the body generally smooth and
glossy, of a pale or yellowish color when young or immediately after
moulting, but usually tawny or brown, especially on the back ; the
mandibles are black. The body is composed of twelve segments be-
sides the head; the first, second and third immediately behind the
head each, bear a pair of four-jointed tapering legs, which are tipped
with a single claw; on the underside of the last segment is a tubercle,
which is used as a kind of a terminal foot, and which is perforated for
the termination of the alimentary canal.

The perfect insects will be found fully described elsewhere
in this report. The following species are there mentioned and
described simply as examples to illustrate the form and character of
the insects belonging to the Elater family—Alaus oculatus, Orthestethus
infuscatus, Melanotus fissilis M. communis Monocrepidius lividus, Melanectes
mort, Agriotes mancus, Ludius attenwatns.

Besides these we may add the following, mentioned by Dr. Le Baron
in his fourth Report: “ Hlater rubricollis, Say,is a little more than
half an inch long, black with a light red thorax, bordered and pointed
behind with black ; E. sanguipennis, Say, is black with light red elytra ;
three-tenths of an inch in length, and the elytra are tipped with
black ; E. nigricollis, Say, varies from less than half to three-quarters
of an inch in length, black with whitish elytra; E. linteus, Say, re-
sembles the last, but is distinguished by having the suture and tip of
the elytra black ; FE. scapularis, Say, is a little less than four-tenths of
an inch long, greenish black, with the base of the elytra and the hind
points of the thorax clay-yellowish ; the tarsal joints are lobed be-
neath. It is now included in the genus Athous. Limouius aranus, Say,
is also light red on the shoulders of the elytra, but the thorax is whol-
ly black, the tarsi are simple, and the length is only a quarter of an
inch. Several species of Corymbetes have the elytra brownish-yellow
with tranverse black zig-zag black bands; C. hieroglyphics, Say, half an
inch long, has two bands; and C. hamatus, rather smaller, has but one
band near the tip.”

He says that Melanotus fissilis and M. communis, two of our most com-
mon species, are sometimes found under the bark of dead trees, having
probably recently emerged from the pupa state. I have frequently
found them hiding thus during the winter, or late in the fall. But
the inference should not be drawn from this that they are produced
from larve that live in rotten wood, as this does not necessarily fol-
low. They are also very common on the leaves of trees, and
bushes, oak bushes appearing to form a favorite resort.

I was not favored with any specimens of the worms damaging the
crops in Macoupin county, and can therefore only guess in regard to

26

their characters, but as the habits of those residing in the ground are
very similar, any remedy applicable to one species will, in all proba-
bility, be equally applicable to another.

In this country wheat, corn and other cereals, grass, potatoes and
some other vegetables have suffered more or less from the attacks of
the wire-worms, but not to such an extent as in European countries.
But little complaint against them has heretofore been made in IIli-
nois, but by turning to the Prairie Farmer of May 16th, 1861, the
reader will find that I have looked forward to the day when the com-
plaint which now comes from the farmers of Macoupin would be
heard. I then stated that, “When the prairie sod is torn up and the
roots have decayed, we may expect the Illinois wire-worms to attack
our wheat, rye, oats and barley. (And I might have added corn, pota-
toes and meadows.) How to take time by the forelock and forestall
this danger I am unable to say.” And I may add here that the pro-
babilitiy is, unless measures are taken to prevent it, they will become
more and more troublesome; possibly not to the extent they are in
England, but in numbers sufficient to greatly injure and materially
lessen the crops of our farmers. Mr. Curtis, in his “Farm Insects,”
in which wire-worms form the subject of the sixth and seventh chap-
ters, says that of all the insect enemies with which the farmer has to
contend there are none which are more fatal in their effects and more
difficult to overcome than the wire-worms. Instead of being limited
to a single species or order they may be almost termed omnivorous.
There is scarcely a product of the farm or garden that is exempt from
their ravages.

The plants which they are known to attack areas follows: Grass,
corn, wheat, rye, barley, oats, potatoes, turnips, beets, cabbages, aspar-
agus, carrots, onions, lettuce, squash-vines, grape, hops, strawberries,
iris, pinks, carnations, dahlias, lobelias, and other garden flowers.
But grass roots appear to be their private food, and, as a rule, they are
more abundant in cultivated ground which has recently been in sod ;
it is here they generally breed and increase, and, as is remarked by
Dr. Fitch, “they abound alike in the roots of the coarsest sedge and
other wild grasses on the borders of marshes and in those of our most
delicate pasture grass. I have met with them boring into the bul-
bous roots and timothy, and sending out a swarm of elaters from the
fibrous roots of the quack-grass.”” Mr. Curtis has observed that where-
ever grass will grow the wire worm may be found. Pasture and
meadow lands are usually stocked with them ; and we may fairly pre-
sume that our prairie soil which yet retains its native sod is well sup-
plied with them, and that when their native food is cut off they will
turn to those cultivated most similar in character to their tastes.

As corn is usually the first thing planted in this country on land
broken up from the sod it is the crop oftenest attacked by the wire-
worms and the one in regard to which we hear most complaint. In
England, oats being the crop which usually follows is the one that
suffers most ;and it has been observed there that the danger is greater
the longer the land was in grass.

Wheat is subject to their attacks and is sometimes greatly injured
by them ; in Canada and the eastern States this crop has often suffer-
ed to a considerable extent by the attacks of a species known as the
“wheat wire-worm” which has recently been ascertained to be the .

27

larva of Agriotes mancus Say. This species is found in this State, but
whether it has been particularly injurious or not [am unable to say,
at least no account of serious damage to wheat crops by wire-worms:
has reached me. I sent out to the various counties through the Sec-
retary of the Board of Agriculture a request that specimens be for-
warded to me, but, as it was rather late in the season, none were
received.

Potatoes suffer severely from them in England, and we hear of the
same thing in various parts of the United States. They are also quite
fond of turnips; in fact, more so than any other root crop, but in this
country this crop does not appear to be often injured by them.

In attacking corn they not only eat the rootsand penetrate the sub-
terranean stem of the young plant, but eat into the kernel before it.
has germinated, thus destroying it.

Without dwelling longer on the history and habits of these worms:
we will mention the remedies which have been proposed, adding such
suggestions of our own as we think may aid in this matter.

ReMeEpDIEs.—The entomologists of Europe from the days of Bjerkan-
der, Marsham, Duncan and Westwood, who studied their habits, down
to the present time appear to have made but little progress toward a
solution of the difficult problem presented by these injurious insects,
and therefore we are left to-day to grope our way toward the light of
certainty as best we can, guided by the dim rays received in the past
and the facts gathered during the last few years.

Not knowing the particular species which depredate on our field
crops, except in the case of the wheat wire-worm, we are necessarily
confined in our attacks upon them to the larval state. But even did
we know the perfect or beetle state of each species it would probably
aid us but little in the work of their destruction, as they are not in
the habit of congregating or collecting in this state, or portion of their
life, in such a way as to afford us the opportunity of destroying them.
We are, therefore, confined in our attempts to counteract them to
general measures or to their larval condition, consequently nearly all
the remedies proposed relate to their worm state.

Hand-picking is the most direct remedy which can be adopted and
possesses the advantage of being effectual so far as it is carried, and
in England where crups have a much higher market value than they
do here and where labor is cheaper this method is often resorted to ad-
vantageously. But for field crops in this country this remedy is
wholly inapplicable, first, because the cost would far more than eat up
the profit, in fact, would amount to more than the whole value of the
crop; and second, because of its impracticability.

Mr. Hogg, of England, many years ago tried with considerable suc-
cess laying pieces of lettuce on the ground asa bait for them, picking
them off by hand as soon as they gathered on these. Sir Joseph
Banks reconimended the same mode of capture, only substituting
slices of potatoes for lettuce. This mode of capture is still in use to a
certain extent, slices of turnips or apples being occasionally substi-
tuted for potatoes. In small areas, such as gardens, this remedy is
perhaps as effectual as any that can be adopted; but it is entirely in-
applicable to field culture in our country. A writer in the “ Gardener’s
Chronicle,” as quoted by Dr. Fitch, says: “I send you an account of

28

destroying the wire-worms which I have adopted for some years, my
ground being full of them, so that I could neither grow sweet-williams
picotees, bulbs, lettuce, nor, indeed, any succulent plant without their
boring, running up and eating the heafts out. Near these {plants I
now place half a potatoe, with the eyes cut out to prevent its growing,
and run a pointed stick through the middle of it and peg it into the
ground, covering it over with about one inch of loam and in a day or
two I have pulled out by the tail from fifteen to twenty of them from
one slice of potato.”

Some place these slices of potatoes on the surface, while others, as
the writer of the above quotation, place them under the surface. But
they should always be sliced, as the worms are much more apt to be
attached to them in this condition than when whole. Slices of apple,
turnip, beet, parsnip, carrot, cabbage and lettuce will perhaps answer
equally as well for this purpose as the potato.

If they should become very troublesome in a vegetable garden, or
flower bed, this method of trapping and destroying them would prob-
ably be the best that could be adopted. Digging after and picking
them out is likely to injure the plants almost, if not quite, as much
as the worms.

Hand-picking in England has given us some idea of the number of
these worms found in a given area in badly infested land. In one in-
stance 18,000 were picked from an acre and a half; in another, 60,000
from three acres; in another, 41,600 from five acres. )

Applications of salt, lime, soot, etc., to the soil have been recom-
mended, and, as maintained by some, practiced with success. Butit is
more than likely that in the cases where marked beneficial results have
followed such applications that they were made just before the great
mass of the worms passed into the pupa state. Such has, doubtless,
often been the case where similar remedies have been used for the
“white grub,” and followed by what was supposed to be complete
success.

That “ wire-worms” and “white grubs” dislike alkalies cannot be
doubted, and if the application is as heavy as the vegetation will bear,
and is followed by rain, thus carrying down into the soil to the roots
of the plants, it will doubtless tend to preserve the crop; but it will
neither destroy them or drive them away, and, as a matter of course,
will afford only temporary relief. As has been observed by Mr. Cur-
tiss, wire-worms will not voluntarily leave the field in which they are
hatched until they have arrived at their perfect state and become
beetles. The Hon. A. B. Dickenson makes the following statement in
reference to his experiments: “I have heard it stated that five
bushels of salt to the acre, or one hundred bushels of lime, would
destroy the wire-worms. Ihave tried both, and have sowed ten bush-
els of salt to the acre, and they only laughed at my folly. I tried one
hundred bushels of lime, as recommended, and they fattened on my
bounty.” This testimony is strong against the use of these applica-
tions, but we must aliow something for the strong expressions of a pub-
lic address; and, in addition to this, we do not know the condition or
character of the soil, or kind of crop upon it, at the time these appli-
cations were made. But Mr. Dickenson’s testimony is corroborated by
the mass of testimony on this point, and accords with reason when
applied to our knowledge of the insects and of their life and habits.

)

29

We may therefore take it for granted that all such applications as
can be made without destroying the vegetation on the land, will, as
a rule, prove ineffectual and be labor and money spent without
profit, so far as relief from the worms is concerned.

Hard rolling after a top dressing of lime has been resorted to; also
numerous other applications, as spirits of tar, gas-lime, rape-cake, etc.,
have been used, but with like results to those already mentioned. It
is proper to add here that there is some testimony which tends to
prove that salt is at least partially effectual on sandy soils.

Guano is said to be obnoxious to them, and it is asserted that the
worms will leave the ground where it is used as a fertilizer ; this may
be correct, but I can find no proof of it experimentally ; it is probably
based on the worm’s supposed delicacy.

Hog manure is said to have saved a crop by being scattered over the
ground and plowed in before planting; and that where it was drop-
ped into hills these were protected while others were injured by the
worms.

Another remedy, which has in it more promise of success
than any of those mentioned which are applicable to field crops, is by
rotating the crops with such vegetables as are obnoxious to them ;
that is to say, whenever the worms become troublesome, plant a crop
that is distasteful to them, and continue it at least two years. The
practical difficulty in this matter is to find a vegetable or plant which
will be distasteful to the worms, and at the same time profitable to the
cultivator. Loudon recommends mustard, as the acridity of its roots
renders it so distasteful to the worms that they will not eat it, and Dr.
Fitch quotes the following from a paper read before the Northampton-
shire Farming Society: ‘“ White mustard seed will protect the grain
from the wire-worm, and this fact I have demonstrated perfectly to
my own conviction. I first tried the experiment on half an acre, in the
center of a fifty acre field of fallow, which was much subject to the
wire-worm. The mustard seed being gathered, the whole field was
fallowed for wheat, and the half acre that had been previously crop-
ped with mustard seed was wholly exempt from the wire-werm ; the
remainder of the field was much injured. Not only was the half acre
thus preserved, but in the spring it was decidedly the most advanced
part of the crop, and the prosperous appearance which it presented,
caused me to repeat the experiment, by sowing three acres more of
mustard seed in the worst part of a field of forty-five acres, also much
infested with the wire-worm. The remainder of the field was sown
with early peas, which, with the mustard seed, was cleared in the
same week. The land was then plowed for wheat, and I had the
pleasure of noticing these three acres to be quite free from the worm,
and much superior in other respects to the other part of the field,
which suffered greatly. Thus encouraged by these results, I sowed
the next year a whole field of forty-two acres, which had never repaid
me for nineteen years, in consequence of nearly every crop being destroy-
ed by the wire-worm; and I am warranted in stating that not asingle
wire-worm could be found the following year, and the crop of wheat
throughout, which was reaped last harvest, was superior to any I had
grown for twenty-one years. I am therefore under a strong persua-
sion that the wire-worm may be successfully repelled and eradicated

30

by carefully destroying all weeds and roots, and drilling white mus-
tard seed, and keeping the ground clean by hoeing.”

I am not aware that tobacco has been tried as a crop for this pur-
pose, but I think it would be equally effectual as the mustard, and
has the advantage of always finding a market. The castor bean will
also, in all probability, prove as obnoxious as either of the other two
plants named. It is possible also that well directed experiments will
bring to light other valuable plants which can thus be used as crops
to counteract these pests. But in substituting these crops one thing
is necessary in order io derive fuli benefit from them, and that is to
keep down the weeds, grass and other vegetation on which they
might feed. So far as possible there must be nothing else allowed to
grow in the fields where the obnoxious crop is planted but the mus-
tard, tobacco or castor bean, as the case may be.

Mr. Walsh suggested pairing and burning the sod in grass lands,
but this would hardly be practicable, and even if performed would
leave the worms to a great extent untouched.

I must confess that none of these remedies are satisfactory to the
farmers of Illinois. I have given them more as a part of the history
of these worms than for any other purpose. Some I have mentioned
because they will be advantageous ou small areas highly cultivated.

Starving them out is really the only effectual remedy, and in order
to do this all food must be removed from them, and as they are tenac-
ious of life, and capable of subsisting on quite a variety of plants, this
is no easy matter. I find in the “ Report of the Entomological Society
of Ontario,” 1871, the best suggestions on this subject I have seen any-
where, and as it agrees, so far as it goes, with the opinion I had already
formed, I present it as giving, in a few words, probably the best prac-
tical remedy which can be adopted: ‘“ When a field is observed to be
badly infested by them (the wire-worms) it ought to be plowed up and
kept fallow for a season, taking care to keep plowing it as often as
possible, and to burn up all rubbish, stubble, &c.; this will destroy
the eggs and starve out the worms.” .

To make this effectual it must be carried through an entire year,
and the work thoroughly done. The land must be kept absolutely
clean and stirred deeply, and as often as possible. Begin the work before
spring opens, clearing off and thoroughly burning all stubble, grass
and rubbish on the ground ; plow it deep the first open weather when
it can be done, even if before the winter closes, so much the better.
Let this be repeated as often during the spring and summer as possi-
ble, sufficiently often at least to keep anything from growing in it, as
this is the whole object in leaving it fallow and the chief point in the
remedy. Jam inclined to believe the remedy may be rendered, if
possible, more effectual by applying a dressing of unslacked lime at
the time the land is broken up in the spring and turning it under
before the rain has fallen upon it. I do not know that this has been
tried, yet I think it would be well to test it in the infested fields, and
that it would be beneficial to almost any Illinois soil cannot be
doubted. Inan article published in the Prairie Furmer of February
19, 1876, in answer to Mr. Corbin’s request, I suggested “ the fall” as
the proper time for applying the lime, but a more thorough investi-
gation of this subject leads me to the conclusion that spring is the

ol

best time, that is to say, the spring of the season during which it is to
lie fallow.

As starving them out is the whole object of this remedy, if the same
result can be accomplished without losing entirely the use of the
iand, as a matter of course the latter is to be preferred, and farmers
will adopt it when they cannot be induced to adopt the other. If ex-
periment shows that any of the three crops mentioned, or any other
one is so obnoxious to the worms that they will not, under any circum-
stances, feed upon it, then the land can be planted in this crop and
if the clean and thorough culture spoken of is carried out, the remedy
will be as complete as though the land was fallow.

As the worms do in fact eat into the kernel of the corn, it is more
than probable that there 1s some solution which may prevent this if
the corn is soaked in it. And I will herequote what I have hereto-
fore stated in answer to an inquiry from the Prairie Farmer on behalf
of a correspondent, first giving the substance of the letter. “Having
seen something in the Farmer about the wire-worm, the remedies sug-
gested, etc., would like to ask if any one hasever tried soaking corn
in blue-stone solution ? “Is blue-stone injurious to corn, and is not
Copperas water, when very strong, to seed corn? The wire-worm in
this county (Shelby) was very troublesome last spring, and this spring
the ground is full of them, only waiting to devour the corn as it is
planted and something must be done to prevent their ravages or we
will suffer great inconvenience from them; would like to see the sub-
ject more fully discussed in the Farmer.”

“Your correspondent, R. T. Mayhew, inquires what will be the
effect upon corn and the wire-worms, if the corn is well soaked in a
“blue stone” (sulphate of copper) solution, and also if soaked in a cop-
peras solution ?”

“Having submitted that portion of the inquiry which relates to the
effect upon the corn to a chemist, he says that he does not think either
solution would injure the corn unless very strong.

“ Both these remedies I am satisfied have been tried, in fact copperas
I know has, but I cannot say precisely what was the result, except
that (in the case of the Macoupin county farmers) it was not satisfac-
tory. In some cases such applications have occasionally proven bene-
ficial, but by no means specifics, nor can we expect anything to be a
specific which does not eradicate the worms. In a case like the
one before us, where the time for planting is close at hand, and the
ground teeming with worms, the farmer, if compelled to use all his
ground, must fight the battle as best he can with such temporary ex-
pedients as experience or his own ingenuity may devise.. Science in
such cases can aid him but little, pluck and perseverence are his chief
weapons, just as the general who, neglecting to take the proper pre-
cautions in time, allows the enemy to burst in upon him where there
is no retreating, must depend upon the bravery and pluck of his
troops to save him from defeat, as the chances for strategy then are
far. .

“Tf a portion of the ground can be allowed to remain idle, let the
directions given in my former article on this pest be followed; as the
plan there proposed gives more promise of success than any other of
which I have any knowledge.

32

“Tf the ground must all be used, I would suggest the following ex-
periment, although I cannot say what the result will be, as I have not
known of its being tried: Coat the seed corn in coal tar, not too thick.

“ This has been suggested to me, and if compatible with the growth
of the corn, would certainly have a strong tendency to prevent the
worms from attacking the grains; but it would of course make
hand planting necessary.

“But preventing them from attacking the grains does not by any
means prevent them from injuring the young root and plumule or
stalk, nor will any application prevent this. The worms must be
destroyed in order to prevent them from injuring the crop.”

There is no doubt but what something may be found which will pre-
vent them from destroying the kernels, but this will only drive them
to the stalk and roots as soon as they appear.

Unfortunately these injurious species appear to have no parasites
which attack them, at least none so far as I am aware have yet been
discovered. But our feathered friends, the birds and domestic fowls,
are very fond of them, and when they are turned up by the plow
greedily devour them. Hogs, when allowed to run in the infested
fields, root into the ground and devour a great many.

THE BORERS.

I have received during the past two years numerous letters from
various parts of Illinois, lowa, Indiana and Missouri, complaining of
the borers, and inquiring as to the best remedies by which to coun-
teract them. Ihave communicated through the Agricultural papers
in answer to these letters and inquiries, and also presented to the
Horticultural Society of Northern Illinois an article on the subject,
which was published in the transactions of the Illinois Horticultural
Society for 1875, (vol. 9), and from which I have freely drawn in this
article.

As most of the species herein alluded to, have already been describ-
ed in this report, I refer the reader to what is said in regard to them
and will not repeat it here, as I here speak of the Borers more as a
class of insects than of the particular species.

Their habits and methods of operating are very different, some con-
fining their operations to the trunks of trees into which they bore
from the time they escape from the egg until they have completed
their larval growth, boring channels or burrows, up, down or through
the solid wood. Some penetrate to the interior of the bark, between
which and the wood they reside, mining passages and burrows partly
in the bark and partly in the wood, or in the one where it joins the
other. Others work their way into the heart of twigs where they
remain during the larval state, moving slowly along the pith. Oth-
ers select the roots as their place of operating; others the canes of
vines, and others the stems of annual plants. But no two of these modes
is ever followed by the same species. The trunk-borer is never a
twig-borer or a cane-borer, nor is a trunk, twig or cane-borer ever @
true root-borer.

The borers that injure useful vegetation, and it is only to these I
allude at present, belong to three orders, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and

30

Hymenoptera, that is to say, in the perfect state they are beetles,
moths, or wasp-like insects.

We may lay it down asa rule, which has but few exceptions, so
far as applied to our State, that this work so far as done in the or-
chard, nursery and cultivated trees, is done by insects while they are
in their worm or larval state; hence it follows, as a matter of course,
that the perfect insects into which they are transformed must be
sought in other situations, because possessing very different habits.
On this account these insects are seldom recognized in their perfect
state by those unacquainted with their history, especially those species
which are sly, hiding during the day (as the Saperda) and coming
forth only at evening.

In order to ascertain the most vulnerable points ian insect’s histo-
ry, we must be thoroughly acquainted with its entire life, from the
moment the egg is deposited until the close of its existence in the
perfect state. If we find this point to be the egg state, on account of
the situation selected, exposed condition, aggregation or other cause,
then as a matter of course, it is against this state that our efforts
should be directed ; and the same is true in reference to any other
stage of their life which may be found to present the most vulnerable
point.

By understanding ‘these things in reference to our various injurious
insects we are enabled to group together, to a certain extent, those of
similar habits, and presenting the same vulnerable points and thus
generalize remedies; and if we can find a method of culture which is
also at the same time a remedy, we are thus enabled to make a given
amount of labor answer a double purpose.

This grouping of habits does not necessarily correspond with the
grouping in the classification of insects; in fact it may, and often
will, bring together insects widely differing from each other.

As an illustration I may mention the Saperda, Aegeria exitiosa (peach-
root borer), and a species of woolly aphis—species belonging to three
different orders—which operate more or less about the collar, or lower
part of the trunk of fruit trees; if we can find a method of mulching,
or to use a more general term, of cultivating this part of the tree,
which will operate as a protection against these species, and at the
same time be beneficial to the trees, an important point is gained ;
and although it may not do away entirely with the necessity of spe-
cial remedies to these different species, yet by steadily persevering in
it we may constantly diminish our insect foes, and render the special
remedies less and less necessary.

But as heretofore stated, in order to direct our experiment intelli-
gently it is necessary to know something in reference to these insects
in their different stages. As we meet with the borers, when at work,
almost exclusively in the larva state, it is important to ascertain
whether they possess any characters in this state by which we may
determine what they will be in the perfect state, and thus be enabled
to trace their habits in that state, and see whether it presents any
yulnerable point.

As a general rule it is exceeding difficult to determine species in
this stage of their existence ; still there are characters by which we
E—3d

34

may at least approximate this in reference to the borers, and ascer-
tain the group to which the respective larvae belong, and thus gain
a pretty correct idea of their habits in the other stages of their lives.

As the first step in grouping them by their larval or worm charac-
ters, we may separate them into two divisions, thus: 1. Those pos-
sessing feet; 2. Those which are footless grubs.

The first division may be again divided into sections, thus: 1.
Those having but six feet or legs, which are true legs, terminating in
a claw, and are situated on the three front segments, immediately be-
hind the head. 2. Those having not only the six true legs, but also
ten or twelve thick, flehy, short legs situated on the middle and hind
segments. I presume it is well known to all of my readers that larvee
often possess two kinds of legs: first, the true legs, of which, when
any are present, there are six, always situated on the first three seg-
ments behind the head, and are jointed and terminate with a claw.
These are called “true,” or “thoracic,” legs. The others are thick,
fleshy, unjointed, and usually very short legs, situated on some of the
remaining segments. These are called “prolegs,” or “abdominal” legs.

Borers which have any prolegs, generally, and so far as Illinois is
concerned we may say always, have ten of these, which, with six true
legs, gives them sixteen. The prolegs are placed, one pair on each,
the sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth segments, and one pair on the
last segment. These are true caterpillars, and all belong to the order
Lepidoptera, and in the perfect state are moths. They belong to the
two families, or rather sub-families, Cossidae and Aegeriadae.

These groups may be distinguished, so far as our insects are con-
cerned, by their operations, as well as by the characters of the larvae
themselves. The former, Cossidae, or, as Harris and some other ento-
mologists name the group, Hepialidae, are trunk-borers; the Aegeriadae
operate in the roots of trees, stems, and canes of shrubs, or under the
bark of the trunks of trees, seldom penetrating into the wood. Our
only troublesome species belonging to Cossidae, or locust borer
( Xyleutes robinix), when fully grown in the larval state is nearly three
inches long. The larve of this group, or rather of this genus, which
is limited to the carpenter moths, are white, or reddish white, soft
and naked, or nearly so, with brown heads, and a spot on the front
part of the body alone, which is brown and hard; they are elongate
und comparatively slender, cylindrical, and have the indentations
between the segments deep.

The larvie of the Aegeriadae are whitish, soft, and slightly downy,
and small ; usually somewhat flattened beneath, and the segments not
usually so deeply divided. The peach root borer (Aegeria exitiosa) is a
familiar example of this family.

We see, therefore, that we need to look to but two families of moths
for our borers which have more than six legs.

Those larvee which have but six true legs may be divided into two
groups, thus: Those which have a horn or spine projecting from the
tails, and those which have not..

The former of these two groups are cylindrical, fleshy grubs, of a
whitish color, with a small, rounded, horny head and a pointed, horny
tail, with six smalllegs under the front part of the body. They gener-
ally attack pines and firs; but the pigeon tremex (T'remex cOlumba),

35

which is found in the west, attacks the elm, sycamore, and sometimes
the pear. These borers belong to the order Hymenoptera, which con-
tains the bees, wasps, etc., and to the family Uroceridz, or “horn-tails,”
which in the perfect state are wasp-like insects, but are not constric-
teo at the waist as are the wasps.

The other wood boring larve found in this State, belong to the or-
der Coleoptera, and are beetles in the perfect state. Following the
characters we have selected, these larvee can be grouped into two sec-
tions: Those without legs and those possessing six small legs situat-
ed on the three front segments.

The footless borers belong to santsie widely different families, but
for the most part can be placed in their respective families by their
larval characters. For example the Buprestian larvee, those belong-
ing to the family Buprestide which contains the saw-horned wood

- beetles, may be fairly represented by the flat headed apple tree borer
(Chrysobothri, femorata) with which all orchardists are too familiar. The
head is small ; the segment behind the head much enlarged ; the body
is somewhat flattened, especially the large segment ; it is without feet.
The raspberry cane- -borer, (Agrilus ruficollis), although much narrower
and presenting some peculiar characters, still corresponds in general
characteristics with the flat headed apple tree borer, The beetles pro-
duced from larvee of this kind are oblong oval in shape, tapering be-
hind with rather short and usually minutely serrate antenne; the
head is deeply sunk in the thorax, and they are generally more or
less distinctly marked with metalic colors.

The larve which most closely resembles these are the footless larve
of the long-horned wood beetles (Cerambycidz), and belong chiefly to
the sub-family Lamides of which the round headed apple tree borer
(Saperda candida), is a well known representative. These larve often
have the front segment considerably enlarged, but it is not often so
large in proportion to the other segments asin the Buprestians; it is
not usually flattened, but is nearly or quite cylindrical. It is some-
what difficult to fix upon any prominent larval characters which dis-
tinguish these groups from each other, and it is frequently difficult to
tell to which a larve belongs, though, as a general rule, the char-
acters I have given will suffice for this purpose.

There are other footless wood-boring larvze which can easily be dis-
tinguished from those mentioned by their minute size, seldom exceed-
ing one fourth of an inch in length, and often less than half that
length ; rather thick, tapering toward each extremity, and curved or
arched, with numerous transverse wrinkles. These belong to two
families, Curculionide, or snout weevils, and Scolytidx, or bark miners.
The boring circulios chiefly direct attacks at the twigs, or the inner
bark of the trunk especially of the Conifera. The Scolytidee of our State
are bark miners; a familiar example being the hickory bark miner
(Scolytus 4-spinosus), which forms the numerous radiating furrows so
frequently seen on the under surface of hickory bark. “The perfect
insect is scarcely an eighth of an inch long, and is distinguished from
the Curcolios by the absence of a snout and by the remarkably large
thorax, which is nearly equal to the rest of the body.

The other Coleopterous wood boring lary have six, usually, very
small legs, situated on the front segments. This is characteristic of

36

the larve of the other long-horned wood-beetles. Those of the sub-
family, Prionides, are large, broad, somewhat flattened, and largest in
front ; ‘one of them, the larva of the broad necked Prionus (Prionus
laticollis), which infests the ‘grape and apple roots, when fully grown,
is nearly three inches long; the legs are very minute.

The larvee of the sub- eae Cerambycides, resembles those of the
Prionides, in having six legs, but the body is more cylindrical, the in-
cisions between the segments are more deeply impressed, and they
are usually smaller, so far as Illinois species are concerned. They
work in the trunks of various trees, or in twigs—the locust tree borer
(Clyturobiniz), the ash-tree borer (Ne eoclytus caprx), and the honey-
locust borer (Eburia quad rigeminata), being familiar examples of the
trunk-borers of this sub-family, and oak-twig pruner or borer (Hlaphi-
dion parallelum) of those which inhabit the twigs or small branches of
trees.

This hasty sketch will give the reader an idea of a method of group-
ing borers by their larval characters, which will assist him very
greatly in arriving at a correct idea of the perfect state of any wood
boring larva with which he may meet which is new to him. In order
to make it as brief as possible, I present it here in the form of a
synoptical table: ,

WOOD-BORING LARYA.

A. Possessing legs or feet.
B. Having more than six feet ; usually sixteen.

C. Large size, true caterpiller, cylindrical; boring into the
wood of the trunk; perfect insect a large moth. (Ex.
Locust-boring caterpiller) ...../....7..0¢5-.ccccdename Xyleutes.

C.C. Small, usually somewhat flattened beneath; boring into
the roots of trees, stems and canes of shrubs, or min-
ing under bark; perfect insect a moth with partially
transparent wing. (Ex. Peach-root borer.)..Aegeriadae.

B. B. Having but six legs.

D. Tail terminating in a horny spine or point; boring into
the trunk ; ‘perfect insect wasp-like. (Ex. Pigeon
POTOMAC. eds sox asunpen teeny vest eke cerca ene Uroceridae.

D. D. Tail without a spine.

E. Large size, somewhat flattened, largest in front, and
tapering back wards ; infesting the roots of grape-
vines and trees ; perfect insect a large brown, flat-
tened beetle. (Ex.broad-necked Prionus.)..Prionides

K. E. Illinois species, medium size to small ; eylindri-
cal, sometimes enlarged in front, sometimes
nearly equal in size throughout; incisions dis-
tinct ; bore into the wood of the trunk, some

* into twigs; perfect insect a long-horned beetle,
with the head not vertical. (Exs. Loccust-tree
borer and Oak-twig pruner.)...... Cerambycides.

wo
~J

AA. Footless grubs.

C. Of various sizes, from medium to minute; front segments
usually more or less enlarged; never enlarged in the
middle so as to taper towards each extremity, nor curved.

F. Head small, the segment behind it much enlarged;
body more or less flattened ; bore into the trunks
of trees, stems and canes of shrubs; ; perfect insect a
saw-horned or Buprestian beetle (Exs. flat-headed
apple-tree borer and raspberry cane-borer) :
Buprestidae.

F F. Head small, segment behind it more or less en-
larged, but not usually so much in propertion to
the rest as the previous section ; body not, or but
slightly, flattened, generally cylindrical, incis-
ions distinct ; bore into the trunks, etc.; perfect
insect a long- ‘horned beetle, with the head verti-
cal (Ex. the round headed apple-tree borer or
peti 60a E MMeMB I nestine einer pea tren tetcrel man LAE ES SEs ech Lamiides.

CC. Minute, seldom exceeding one-fourth of an inch in

; length ; enlarged in the middle and tapering toward

each extremity; curved, with numerous transverse
wrinkles; perfect insect a beetle:

Scolytidae and Curculionidae.

In addition to this arrangement, we might classify by their meth-
ods of operating, thus: Those that bore in the roots; those that bore
into the trunk ; the twig and cane borers; and the bark miners.

While this arrangement might have some advantages, it would
bring together those differing very widely in every other character,
and separate those which are very closely related in every other
respect. For example: among the root borers we would have side by »
side an Aegerian and a Prionus, one a moth and the other a beetle ; the
larva of one a caterpillar with sixteen feet, the larva of the other a
grub with but six minute feet. As will be seen above, I have
made use of these characters to a certain extent in the synoptical
table of the larve.

The following list contains most of the borers found in Illinois
which are known to injure useful trees or other vegetation to any
considerable extent, and which on this account are worthy of notice.

COLEOPTERA (or those which are beetles in the perfect state).

As those belonging to this order are described in a subsequent part
of this report, we simply refer the reader to the place in this report
where they are described, and where he will find the remedies noticed.

1. Chrysobothris femorata. The flat-headed apple-tree

BEE ee eRe ae Al Bock. .S'k nicl Once Me Rme Ne a rates biel te [See page —.]
2. Dicera divaricata. The cherry-tree borer............... .
ow Dicerca lurida. Wickory-tree borer...........:siseeecs- yp
4. Agrilus rufieolls. Raspberry cane borer...............+- i
ER RAR ALES O10 PES. o 8 Mi win rdavavin cad sier Gdacavdcuenvs oevewsles a

38

6. Amphicerus bicaudatus. The twig and axil borer.....[See page —.]
7. Synoxylon basilaris. The shag-bark hickory-tree bor-

8. Pandeletius hilaris. The gray-sided curculio........... i
9. Magdalis armicollis. The elm-tree curculio............ P
10. Hybobius pales. The pales weevil or pine-lark mir-
Oo cbs veeeic be ag beaewsc Ah owhtescnsWeiven ts's eeeattbralsisises nats eae pe e
11. Pissodes strobi. The white-pine weevil................ z
12. Analcis fragariae. The strawberry crown-borer...... e
13. Scolytus ex spinosus. The hickory-bark minet......... Stata
14. Hylurgus tenebrans. The boring hylurgus............. i
15. Hylurgus dentatus. The toothed hylurgus............ iF
16. Prionus imbricornis. The tile-horned prionus........ a
17. Prionus laticollis. Thebroad necked prious or grape-
TOMB OPO coe Frcntc skanten dunn scat oabe chs deter tree oe einee i
18. Callidiwmamoenum. <A grape-vine borer............... Sy
19. Chion cinctus (or garganicus). The hickory-trunk
RaRRR ON a eras wee toe wate avs nik Sorel Gos okies Monee ce cece eee %
20. Eburia quadrigeminata. The honey-locust borer..... -
21. Elaphidion villosum. The oak-twig pruner............ FA
22. Elaphidion parallelum. The parallel long horn......
23. Clytus (Cyllene) robiniae. The locust tree borer....... eet
24. Olytus (Glycobius) speciosus. The sugar-maple borer.. 3
25. Clytus (Neolytus) caprae. The ash-tree borer......... _
26. Saperda candida (or bivittata). The rounded-headed
DPE IPO UOTET. wn. esos raceme corny Saleh han bene ucatrens :
27. Saperda tridentata. The three-toothed or elm-tree
PTR STE Ea ed ga be etm Sitio ma ed Raat nee a Ler Ae 2 ef

LEPIDOPTERA (Or those which are moths in the perfect state.)

28. <Aigeria exitiosa, Say. The Peach-tree borer............ [See page —.]

This borer is very different in character from those we have been
considering, as it has sixteen legs, three jointed or true legs on the
first three segments, four pairs of abdominal legs on the sixth to the
ninth segments, and one pair on the last segment.

It is a naked, soft, white, cylindrical grub, slightly flattened on the
under side, and, when full grown, measures something over half an
ineh in length.

Its head is ashining, yellowish-red color, marked in front with black,
andat the base and middle with white; the thorax is also white.
There are a few scattered brownish hairs on the head and other seg-
meats. The pro-legs are very short, scarcely protruding below the
general surface.

When fully grown, it spins for itself a cocoon or follicle of silk,
mixed with the gum and excrement, wherein it passes the pupa state.
This follicle is of a brown color, oval in form, with the ends rounded,
and is about three-fourths of an inch long, or a little less, and about
one-third as broad.

The perfect insect is a very pretty moth. the male and female dif-
fering so materially that they would be taken for different species.

39

They are from one-half to three-fourths of an inch long ; expanse, three-
fourths to oneand one-fourth inch. The male is thesmaller ; the body is
a bright, deep stcel-blue, sometimes with a yellowish band on the ab-
domen ; wings yellowish white, semi-transparent, with a narrow bor-
dering of blue.

The female has a body of the same color, with an orange-colored
band about the middle of the abdomen; front wings blue; opaque ;
posterior wings transparent, margined with blue.

The eggs are smooth, oval, of a dull yellow color, and about one-
fortieth of an inch long. They are usually deposited upon the bark
at the surface of the ground, and the worms hatching from them
work downwards, at first in the bark of the root, forming a slender,
flexuous channel, which becomes filled with gum. At the distance
of an inch or two below the surface, the whole of the bark of the root
becomes consumed in badly infested trees, and the sap-wood is also
extensively gnawed, so that the root is nearly severed.

The larger worms, in winter, usually repose with their heads up-
wards, in contact with the outer surface of the root, generally in
smooth, longitudinal furrows they have excavated, their backs covered
with their castings, mingled with gum and cobwebs, forming a kind
of cell.

:

The larva enters the pupa state in the early part of summer, and
comes forth in the perfect state usually in July, though there is rea-
son to believe it often comes out in the south part of the State as
early as May or June.

Various remedies have been proposed, such as raising a mound of
earth around the trunk; pouring boiling water around the roots;
placing around it a bed of cinders, ashes or lime; surrounding it with
a collar of mortar; enveloping the base of the trunk in matting or
paper, etc., and planting tanzy around tke tree.

Dr. Harris favors the mortar and matting remedy; Dr. Fitch thinks
tanzy will be beneficial; and Prof. Riley recommends strongly the
mounding process.

There are several other Aegerix which have similar habits and are
injurious to cultivated or useful plants.

.

Aegerva tipuliformas Linn—CuRRANT BORER.

The moth is a little less than one half an inch long and expands
three-fourths of an inch. The color is deep blue, with three yellow
bands across the abdomen, a yellow collar, and yellow mixed with
blue marking the legs. These vellow bands, so like the same in many
of our wasps, renders this species all the more liable to be mistaken,
especially as they mingle with the wasps, making a gay company in
the bright sunshine. Yet the tufted extremity, in lieu of a pointed
one tipped with a dreaded spear will quickly undeceive us.

These moths appear in June or July. They deposit their eggs
near a bud; these eggs soon hatch, and the tiny caterpillar at once
bores to the center of the stem, where they may be found from June
to July the following year.

40

In May, June or July the insect becomes a pupa, which is always
found lying very near the outside opening—which the larva has
made by eating through the hard wood and bark before assuming the
pupa state. The cocoon, when it has one, is made of its own droppings.

These insects seem to attack the red currant more generally, yet the
black variety, and even the gooseberry is not exempt from their
attacks. Not only do the broken stems, so weakened as to be unable
to stand upright, but also the sickly appearance of the foliage, tell
of this insect’s presence and work. Bending the stalks will also gen-
erally give the needed information, as the affected ones bend the more
readily. The hollows in the stalks will inform us of their previous
or present work. This is an imported species and, as a rule, they are
more destructive than those which are native.

Remepies.—The best remedy for counteracting these insects is to
cut off the infested parts and burn them. This should be done in the
spring, about May 20; if later some of the earliest moths might es-
cape,if earlier the pruner could not discriminate so wisely between
healthy and diseased stems.

Aegeria pyri Harr—PEAR TREE AEGERIA.

The larve live under the bark of the trunk of the pear tree. The
perfect insect is much like the moth of the currant-borer.

Aegeria acerni Clemens—MaApLE TREE AEGERIA.

The larve burrow under the bark of the soft maple, but never pene-
trate deeply into the solid wood.

The perfect insect is about one-half an inch long, and expands
about three-fourths of an inch; thorax, ochre-yellow ; abdomen, blu-
ish black, varied with yellowish ; fore wings with margins and med-
ian vein bluish black.

Whitewashing has been recommended.

Aegeria rubi Riley—RAsPBERRY Roor Borer.

The larve work in the lower part of the canes of the raspberry and
blackberry.

The larva attains an inch or more in length when fully grown; is
of a pale yellow, with a dark reddish brown head; dwells mostly in
the root, but burrows in the cane, often several inches above the
ground.

The moth has the front wings bordered with rusty brown, and the
body marked with yellow and black—these colors on the abdomen
forming alternate rings; expanse from one to one and one-fourth of
an inch ; it comes out in August and September.

The only remedy appears to be to dig out, in the spring, the infested
roots and burn them.

4]

Aegeria cucurbite Harr—Tue Squasu VINE Borer.

I have not heard any complaint of injuries by this species in IIli-
nois, but have received letters from Kansas complaining of its depre-
_ dations and injury especially to the Hubbard squash. It is also found
east of us, therefore we may safely conclude that at some time it will be
found in Ilinois to an extent sufficient to call attention to its opera-
tion.

The following brief description of the wasp-like moth will be suffi-
cient to distinguish it from the other species.

Front wings opaque, olive brown ; hind wings transparent with the
border and fringe brown; antennae dark ; the palpi or feelers at the
sides of the head yellowish, with a small black tuft near the top; the
thorax greenish brown: abdomen black at base, rest except the tip a
deep orange color, tip usually black ; the hind legs are heavily fringed
with long hairs which are black on the inside and orange rgd on the
outside. The wings, when spread, measure a little over an inch from
tip to tip; the body from five-eighths to three-fourths of an inch long.

The larve work in the stem of the squash vine just where it leaves
the ground. They are usually found at work in July and first part of
August according to latitude. When once the vine is attacked there
appears to be no remedy. Preventive measures are the only ones
of any avail in this case. Destroy all the moths which are to be
found and as they are day flyers they can easily be seen.

Whenever a vine is attacked pull it up and feed it to the hogs, or
burn, or insome way destroy the worm that is init. Let this be done
soon after the vine is attacked, or otherwise it may be neglected until
the perfect insect comes forth, and then it is too late.

Tremex Columba—EuLmM TREE Borer.

This species belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which contains wasps,
bees, etc., to the family Uroceridx, or “horn tails,” so called on account
of the horn at the extremity of the larva, and the borer at the extrem-
ity of the female perfect insect, It is wasp-like in appearance, having
four thin membranous wings similar to those of a wasp, but differs
from the wasp in not having the body constricted at the waist. The
body of the female is cylindrical, about as thick as a common
lead pencil, and an inch and a half or more in length, exclusive of
the borer, which is an inch long and projects three-eighths of an inch
beyond the end of the body. The latter rounds upwards, like the
stern of a boat, and is armed with a point or short horn; the head and
thorax are rust colored, varied with black; the abdomen, or hinder
and longest part of the body is black, with seven ochre-yellow bands
across the back, all of them but the first two interrupted in the mid-
dle. The horned tail, and a round spot before it, impressed as if with
a seal, are ochre-yellow ; the antenne are rather short and blunt, rust
colored, with a broad black ring in the middle; the wings expand
two inches and a quarter or more ; they are smoky brown and semi-
transparent; the legs are ochre-yellow, with blackish thighs; the
borer, awl or needle, is as thick asa bristle, spear pointed at the end,

42

and of a black color; it is concealed, when not in use, between two
narrow, rust colored side pieces, forming a kind of scabbord to it.

The male isextremely unlike the female in color, form and size, and
is not furnished with the remarkable borer of the other sex ; is rust-
colored, variegated with black; antenne rusty yellow or black-
ish; wings smoky, but clearer than those of the female, and of a
blackish color ; the other legs are rust-colored, and more or less shaded
with black; the length of the body varies from three-quarters to an
inch and a quarter; the wings expand from an inch and a quarter to
two inches or more.

The female pierces through the bark into the wood in which she
deposits her eggs; these are oblong-oval and pointed at each end. The
larve are yellowish-white grubs with six true legs; they are cylindri-
cal in shape, rounded at the hind extremity, from which proceeds a
horny conical spine; when full grown, they are about one inch and a
half in length. They bore into the trunks of elm*and oak, and have
also been Charged with attacking the apple tree in Illinois, and Mr.
Wier has noticed them boring in the sycamore.

They are subject to the attacks of two ichneumon flies—Pimpla
atrata and Pimpla lunator.

So far as Lam aware, they have not proven injurious to any con-
siderable extent in the West.

Xyleutes robinie—Peck—Tue Locust TREE CARPENTER-Moru.

This moth belongs to the section Heterocera or moths, family Cossidx
and was formerly placed in the genus Cossus, but is now placed in
Xyleutes, a genus established by Newman for these Carpenter-moths.
Harris places it in the family Hepialide which is nearly equivalant to
Cosside. The body is densely covered with minute hairs; the head is
small; antenne of but moderate length, and furnished on the under
side with a double set or two rows of minute, closely set comb-like
teeth (bipectinate.) The male is dark brown; the female has the
abdomen dark ash-brown, constricted at the base, with a mass of hairs
each side at this point, which are white at the base and dusky at the
extremity ; thorax dark brown, thickly covered with ash-colored,
scaly down, leaving a narrow dark line each side, and some naked
spaces on the disk; anterior wings hoary, with irregular darker re-
ticulations, with some larger irregular discal spots of the same color ;
hind wings dusky with black veins, covered with paler hair toward
the anterior margin ; tongue or proboscis wanting.

The female is furnished with a serrated ovipositor ; she is about
1.25 inches long to tip of the abdomen, and expands 2 to 2.75 inches;
male expands 1.50 to 1.75 inches.

The larva of this species isa true caterpiller, possessing sixteen
legs, and bores into the trunks of the locust (Robinia pseudacacia) and
red oak (Quercus rubra), especially full grown and old trees of the for-
mer. They perforate the tree in various directions, but mostly ob-
liquely upwards and downwards through the solid wood, enlarging
their burrows as they increase in size, and continuing them through
the bark to the outside. When fully grown they measure two inches

43

and a half or more in length, and nearly as thick as the little finger.
Before transforming they line their burrows with a web of silk, and
return to the interior or some distance from the external opening,
spin an_ imperfect cocoon, in which they assume and pass the pupa
state. The pupa is an inch anda half or two inches long, of an am-
ber color, changing to brown in front; on the upper side of each ab-
dominal ring are two transverse rows of toothlike projections. By
means of these the pupa just before transforming to the moth, works
its way to the mouth of the burrow, so that the perfect insect may
escape; which usually occurs in the latter part of June or the first
part of July.

The eggs are doubtless deposited sometime in July, and are of a
dark brown or somewhat purplish color. The ovipositor of the female
being extensile, she is enabled to place them in the deeper cracks
and crevices of the bark. The young worms which hatch from them
are dark brown with large heads. They are active and commence
spinning as soon as they are hatched. '

A LIST

of the various borers herein mentioned with the names and parts of
the plants they injure. Those with } prefixed operate in the per-
fect or beetle state, all the rest in the larva state :

Chryspbothris femorata—Bores into the trunk of the apple, peach,
pear, plum, cherry, soft maple, white oak, box elder, mountain ash,
beech and hickory.

Dicerca divaricaca—Bores into the wild and cultivated cherry trees,
peach tree and beech.

Dicerca lurida—Bores into the hickory tree.

Agrilus ruffcollis—Bores into the raspberry and blackberry canes.

Agrilus lateralisa—Not known positively in what plant the larva
lives.

b. Amphicerus bicandatus—The perfect insect bores into the axles of
the twigs of the apple, grape, pear and peach.

Sinoxy.on Casilaris—Bores into the trunk and probably branches of
the hickory, apple and peach trees and grape vines.

Pandeleteins hilaris—Bores into the white oak.

Magdalis armicollisa—The elm tree bark-miner and borer.

Hylobius pales—Bark-miner of the pine tree.

Pissodes strobhi—Bores into the young shoots of the white pine.

Analcis fragartxe—Bores into the crown and stem of the strawberry
plant.

Scolytus 4 spinosus—Bores into various hickories.

Hylurgus tenebrans—Bores into the inner bark of pine trees.

Hylorgus dentatus—Bores into the red cedar.

Priowus tmbricornis—Root-borer, found in the roots of the grape vine.

P.ionus laticollis—Root-borer, especially roots of the grape vine.

Callidum amoenum—Bores under the bark of the pine.

Chion cinctus—Bores into the trunk of the hickory.

Eburia quadrigemiuata—Bores into the honey locust.

Elaphidion villosum—Bores into the twigs of the black and white oaks,
and probably the apple tree.

Ad

Elaphidion paralellum—Bores into the twigs of the oak, applg and
probably other fruit trees.

Olytus (Cyllene)robinixe—Bores into the trunk of the common locust.

Clytus (Glycobius) speciosus—Bores into the trunk of the sugar-maple.

Clytus capre—Bores into the trunk of the ash.

Saperca candida—Bores into the lower trunk of the apple tree.

Saperda tridentata—Burrows under the bark of the trunk of the elm
tree.

ANgeria exitiosa—Bores into the root of the peach.

Ageria tipuliformis—Bores into the stems of the currant bushes.

Aigeria pyri—Larva live under the bark of the pear tree.

Adgeria acerni—Larva burrow under bark of soft maple.

Aigeria curcubite—Bores into the stem of the squash vine.

Atgéria rubi—Bores into the lower part of the cane and in the root
of the raspberry and blackberry plants.

Tremex columba—Bores into the trunk of the elm, oak, sycamore and
occasionally the apple tree.

Hyletus robinie—Bores into the stem of the common locust, red oak
and Balm of Gilead.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN LOCUST.

Inquiries in reference to the Rocky Mountain locust, or destructive
grasshopper of the West, having been received from various individ-
uals in this State, Iowa and Nebraska, and also accounts of grasshop-
pers flying in swarms in Illinois, I replied substantially as follows in
The Inter Ocean of October 9, 1875:

Your note inclosing a letter from D. B. P., of Norwood, Mercer County,
Ill., has been received; also the grasshoppers forwarded at the same
time. I find in the box five specimens, all in good order, four of which
belong to Caloptenus differentialis (Thomas), a widely different species
from that which visited Kansas and Nebraska in such destructive
numbers in 1874 Mr. P. states in his letter that “ They
have been flying over this place since Sunday, August 29.”
This is something new for this species. I have observed it somewhat
closely for several years here and in the West, its range extending to
the Rocky Mountains, and although frequently finding it quite nu-
merous in limited areas, have never observed it migrating. But the
testimony of Mr. P. and of Professor Burril, of Champaign, who has
carefully examined the flying specimens, together with other facts
ascertained, appear to settle the point that the swarms recently seen
flying over parts of Illinois were of this species.

These facts will now probably assist us in explaining some items of
which Mr. Walsh came in possession in 1867, but was then unable to
explain, because the statements then made were not accompanied, as
they have been in this instance, by specimens of the insect referred
to. Accounts of great damage being done by grasshoppers in North-
ern, Central and Southern Illinois were sent to the Prairie Farmer ;
he also obtained accounts of grasshoppers flying over portions of
Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. As we find the C. differ-
entialis this year very abundant at Cairo and in other parts of South-
ern Illinois, also in Central and Northern Illinois, and hear of their

“4

fi
\

45

passing from point to point in droves, is it not very likely the cer-
tainty in the present case explains the uncertainty in the former, and

that C. differentialis was the culprit in the first case instead of CO. femur-
_rubruin, as Mr. Walsh supposed, or Acridiwm Americum (in Southern
Illinois), as I then supposed from the number, I observed ?

There is also a coincidence here I would call attention to, as it is

another item in the data which will ultimately explain to us things

which are now mysterious. The unusual action of our Acridii this
year is during the season following the great invasion of 1874, so that
of 1867 was the season following the great invasion of 1866.

There is no probability that this species (C. differentialis) will ever
become habitually migratory as the C. spretus, yet what has occurred
once may occur again, and like causes may reasonably be expected to
produce like results. Iam inclined to think the peculiar seasons we
have had for two years, and especially the character of the spring and
summer, have had much to do with the sudden development of this
species, which is a great feeder and fond of rank vegetation which the
summer rains afforded. But why these insects should migrate when
food is so abundant is somewhat strange, unless we suppose the recent
dry weather (as we have had here) has rendered their food dry and
unpalatable, or that something in the condition of the atmosphere so
affects them as to urge them on.

The remarkable effect of the past and present seasons (if the cause
lies here), upon our Acridian fauna does not stop with the C. different-
dalis, but has extended to our most common species, the Caloptenus
femur-rubrum. This species, which can usually be found anywhere in
the fields or along the roadside, during the summer and fall, appears
to be entirely replaced by a new form, which I take to be the one de-
scribed by Professor Riley as Caloptenus atlanis, which is an intermedi-
ate form between C. femur-rubrum and C. spretus, so near in fact to the
latter, that it is almost impossible to distinguish the one from the
other. I have searched in vain for femur-rubrum ; it seems entirely to
have disappeared and the new variety to have taken its place. Is the
one the progenitor of the dther; the former of the latter? Iam no
believer in the Darwinian theory, but here is presented a problem
difficult to solve, unless we admit the correctness of that theory, or,
that all three supposed species, are but varieties of one which I am
inclined to believe is the case. Otherwise how are we to account for
the appearance of this new form this season? The spretus has not
visited our section, the femur-rubrum is absent, and here I have before
me alarge number of specimens gathered here, some of them to-day
(September 28, 1875) with the long wings and the notched male ab-
domen, corresponding exactly with Professor Riley’s description of
Caloptenus atlanis. Is the common femur-rubrum being transformed
into spretus, this being the intermediate step? If so, over half the
distance has already been traversed. What has caused this? Is it
some great climatic change that is taking place} or some hidden and
hitherto unknown cause’? I confess my inability at present to solve
this new problem. Further observations and more data being neces-
sary. Yet I am still of the opinion that without an entire change of
climate the Caloptenus spretus will never become a permanent resident
of Illinois or the immediate valley of the Mississippi.

46

In place of attempting to answer Mr. P’s questions seriatim J pre-
sent the following general statements in reference to the “destructive
western locusts—caloptenus spretus; which subject appears to be
attracting renewed attention both among scientists and agricultural-
ists, and I wish I could say of our national authorities. [Norz.—
Since this was written Congress has ordered a commission to
investigate this species.] I am glad to see the subject again
brought before the public, especially at this time, for it is
one which should receive the attention not only of individuals,
but of the States and Territories most deeply interested, and
especially of our national authorities. Illinois and Missouri,
through their entomologists, propose to do their part of this work. I
may add without any desire to be egotistic, that for nearly a year I
have been urging two of the departments at Washington (the agri-
cultural and the engineer corps of the military), and have also writ-
ten to the executive authorities of the States and Territory bordering
the great plains, to take this matter in hand and properly investigate
it while the facts connected with the great invasion of 1874 are fresh
in the memory of the people visited. In each case my suggestions
have been very courteously received, and in some instances even
some preliminary steps have been taken, but these authorities,
although properly appreciating the importance of the subject, can-
not act effectively without the aid of Congress and the Legislatures.
But this is a matter of national importance, and can only be properly
investigated through the action of our national authorities.

Although Central Asia and Arabia are given as the native home
of Oedipoda migratoria, yet so far as lam aware not asingle swarm reach-
ing Europe has been traced to its starting point in Asia unless it has
been done recently by Koeppin, of Russia, of whose writings on this
subject I have seen only a short notice; yet, after reaching Europe,
their migrations have been repeatedly traced. But here the starting
point and termini lie within the boundaries of our own government,
and with the railroads and telegraph lines traversing the great plains,
and running north and south near the mountains, and the military
posts and stations scattered over the area, it is certainly possible to
trace them from one extreme to the other. This done, we would then
be in a position to tell whether it is possible or not to devise auy
preventive measures.

Their hatching ground is known to extend over the vast area
roughly designated by the following boundary lines: On the east, the
103d meridian; on the south, the south line of Colorado and Utah;
on the west, the west line of Utah,extended north to British America ;
the northern line being somewhere in British America, even this area
in the northern part being expanded indefinitely east and west.

Now for the proof. While connected with the United States Geo-
logical Survey, under Dr. Hayden, for four years, I travelled over a
large portion of this area, traversing it on various lines east and west
and north and south, studying somewhat carefully the habits of these
destructive locusts. During this time I noticed them in the larve
and pupa state, or depositing their eggs at the following places: At
various points along the east base of and in the bordering valleys of
the mountains in Wyoming and Colorado, from North Platte near

47

Forj Laramie to the Arkansas river; in Laramie Plains and around
Fort Bridger ; from Utah lake, in Utah, to Fort Hall in Snake river
valley, Idaho; in Northwestern Dakotah, near the Red River of the
North, and on both sides of the range in Montana along the valleys
of Deer Lodge river, and the branches of the Upper Missouri. I also
obtained satisfactory proof of the same thing occurring in British
America, north of Dakota, in Middle Park, Colorado, and in the re-
gions west of that point; in Wind river valley in Wyoming, in
Central Montana along the Yellowstone, and in the Green River,
country west of South Pass. These facts, which are but a small por-
tion of what might now be gathered, will give some idea of the work
necessary to be done, if we undertake to exterminate these insects by
destroying their nests in their native haunts.

I will present some facts in regard to their migrations in and
from the mountains and northern regions which will assist the reader
in forming a more correct idea of their habits and the extent of their
operations; and here, be it remembered, that I confine myself to the
single species Caloptenus spretus. I have traced a swarm from the area
west of South Pass to their stopping place and hatching ground north
of Fort Fetterman, from Northwestern Dakota nearly to Lake Winni-
peg, and have ascertained that some swarms have even extended their
migrations, from supposed southwest point as far as the north side of
this lake. It is also known that in one instance, at least, those which
left Colorado moved in the direction of Texas ; those’ visiting Salt
Lake Valley have repeatedly come from the northeast, sometimes,
doubtless, from Cache and Bear River valleys, and at others from the
Snake river region while thoge hatched in the Salt Lake regions
moved south, in some instances returning with the change of wind.
In 1864 those hatched east of the mountains in Northern Wyoming
and along the Yeldowstone in Montana, swept down the east flank of
the range upon the fields of Colorado, while a part moved east to
Manitoba and Minnesota. In 1867 a swarm from the west side of the
range poured into Middle Park and there deposited their eggs, but
those hatched from these failed to scale their rocky bounds; yet while
these were vainly striving to leave their mountain prison, another
horde from the barren regions beyond sweeping above them over the
snowy crest, poured down upon the valleys east, and in another in-
stance a swarm was seen passing for two days over Fort Hall from the
southwest. On the other hand we find them extending their flight
far into Texas in destructive hordes, yet New Mexico and Arizona
appear to be comparatively free from them, at least the very exten-
sive collections made by Lieutenant Wheeler’s expeditions in these
territories during the last four years, which have been submitted to
me, contain but very few specimens of the C. spretus, and during my
visit to New Mexico in 1869 I found scarcely any specimens south of
Raton Mountains, although comparatively abundant in Colorado and
even in San Luis Valley. Iam therefore inclined to doubt the cor-
rectness of the statement made in reference to the grasshoppers in
these territories in 1855, if intended to apply to this species.

These facts if added to the experience of the last three years in Kan-
sas, Nebraska, Dakota, Minnesota and Manitoba, will suffice to show
not only how extensive the range is, but also how varied their flight,
and that there are no particular spots which can be said to form their

48

permanent hatching grounds. That they prefer the elevated sandy
plateaus and terraces in the mountain districts is certain; that any
particular localities form the permanent hives from which the swarms
issue cannot be maintained. Yet that those which visit Kansas and
Nebraska, and even Dakota and Minnesota, originate usually within
a certain portion of the mountain region or plains of Montana, Wyo-
ming or British America, appears highly probable. While there are
some exceptions to the rule, yet it is evident that the general course
.of their flights east of the mountains is southeast. The distance
traveled by any particular swarm, so far as I am aware, has never
been positively ascertained, yet enough is known to indicate that
this may extend for at least two or three hundred miles. The
hordes which visited Colorado in 1864 are supposed by Col. Byers to
have originated in Montana, along the Yellowstone; and the swarm
which I traced through Sweet Water Valley probably traveled over
200 miles; yet the evidence is not positive in either case, though
strongly presumptive. Now let us examine briefly the history and
character of their migrations in the Mississippi Valley, and see what
important facts bearing upon the question of a preventive can be as-
certained, and especially as to the places from which individual
hordes which visit this region take their departure.

But first I desire to present a few facts in regard to the Eastern
locust— Gidipsda migratoria—as indicative of what we might probably
expect here. The earlier invasions of Europe by this species are al-
ways said to be from Arabia or the interior of Asia, as, for example,
the horde which visited Silesia in 1542, the regions around Milan in
1556, and of Marsaeilles in 1613. But as observations began to be
more exact and the records more perfect, we hear of intermediate sta-
tions and less extensive single marches ; for example the invasion of
Hungary and Germany in 1693 is said to have beefi from Thrace, and
the great European invasion, 1749-50, was the result of several steps ;
in 1747-48, it was stated they came from Turkey into Wallachia,
Moldavia, Transylvania and Hungaria; from thence in 1749, they
passed into Austria, Bavaria, and other parts of Germany, and from
thence in 1750, reached the Marck of Brandenburg. But beyond
Thrace in the one case, and Turkey in the other, nothing is known of
their progress. I am aware that seemingly well attested instances of
their flight from three to five hundred miles from shore are given ;
and also the very common statement of their passage across the Med-
iteranean, but Hasselquist and also Zinnani, who lived at Venice,
deny the truth of the latter statement, and the leading Orthoptorolo-
gist of Europe was unable to correct them, if wrong, as late as 1853.

It may therefore be possible if we can trace the swarms which
visit Kansas and Nebraska to their hatching grounds, we will find
them not so far distant as is now generally supposed. As bearing on
this point I give the following facts and statements, partly from the
full records of Mr. Walsh, Professor Riley, the Agricultural Reports
of Kansas, and Agricultural Department at Washington, and from my
own knowledge, ete.

It appears from the Canada Farmer, as quoted in Riley’s report, that
in 1857 they visited the Assiniboine settlement in Manitoba. Now
by turning to Mr. Taylor’s account of the locusts, as given in the

49.

Smithsonian report of 1858, we find that these insects were very
destructive to the grass of the plains that year, from the Upper Mis-
souri to Fort Kearney, and migrating. There may be no connection
between the two, but subsequently, in 1871 or 1872, swarms appear to
have passed up from Dakota to Manitoba, indicating a disposition in
this northern section tomove northeast. In 1864 we hear again of
invasions of Manitoba and Minnesota, and this year the great hatch-
ing ground appears to have been the Upper Missouri and Yellow-
stone region. But the great mass this season appears to have spread
southeast, and east upon the plains, sending a strong wing down the
mountain flank to Colorado, and another detachment into Minnesota,
but not reaching the settlements of Nebraska and Kansas.

In 1866 we find them spreading over Nebraska and Kansas, and
even reaching Missour1 and Texas, an invasion which has almost
universally been attributed to a direct importation from Colorado.
Is this opinion correct? Was it not in fact a continuation of that of
1864, and if so thus showing that these invading hosts have interme-
diate stopping grounds on the great plains as did the advancing
hordes of Asiatic locusts in Europe, and probably beyond the Bos-
phorus? In the first place there is nosufficient proof of any such
swarms leaving Colorado in 1866, but, on the contrary, the most com-
petent authority in the Territory, Colonel Byers, asserts the opposite
in his letter to me which is published in the report of Hayden’s Geo-
logical survey for 1870. In thesecond place, as it appears that the
great hive of 1864, from which the swarms issued, was Eastern Mon-
tana, Western Dakota and Northeast Wyoming, it is scarcely proba-
ble that it would send forth but two lines, one toward Minnesota and
the other toward Colorado, and these at right angle to each other,
while the usual direction of the air currents, by which they are car-
ried, is along the-diagonal. Again, the advanced guard of those
which reached Colorado, and which doubtless came from the nearest
hatching ground, after stopping here a short time, passed off southeast
in the direction of the Arkansas river. We hear nothing further of
them in 1865; but as the remaining portion of the horde of 1864
stopped in Colorado it is not probable these proceeded very far, but
deposited their eggsin Southeast Colorado. "The brood of 1865 may
have advanced but a short step farther, and then in 1866 these which
entered Texas were the first of the advancing column, for it was not
until 1867 that the storm fell in its full force upon the interior of the
State, and that not until late in the season—October and November.

Advancing north we finda corresponding state of affairs. Those
which hatched in Colorado in 1865 ieft there in June and passed out
upon the plains. By turning to the monthly agricultural report of
1868 we find it stated that they were in Arkansas, (Montgomery
County), in 1867. If we suppose those from the section further north
moved in a southeast direction they would probably have reached the
regions of the Black Hills of Dakota, and it is from this region it is
supposed by some those that visited Iowa in 1867 came. The time of
arrival in Kansas and Nebraska would show a similar rate of progress
to the lines already traced, and on this point we have some very strong
corroborating testimony.

E—4

50

Mr. J. A. Allen, of Cambridge, Mass., who was in Western Iowa in
1867, collecting plants and insects, states that on September 5 he be-
held a flight of myriads of grasshoppers coming from the northwest,
and alighted so thickly as to cover the ground; that on the 13th, he
saw another immense flight coming from the same direction. He
adds, that: ‘Their progress was readily traced from the north and
west, and their origin was undoubtedly Dakota and Nebraska, where
my friend, O. H. St. John, observed them, in abundance, in the larva
state, in May. He also noticed them at or near Sioux City, and at
other points on the Jowa side of the Missouri River.”

The facts in regard to the direction from which the hordes of 1874
came, is also corroborative of the opinion advanced. And finally,a
fact which at first appears to stand opposed to this opinion, when
carefully considered, really goes to strengthen it, if applicable to the
general halt. The evidence in regard to the arrival of the hordes of
1866 in Kansas rather tends to show they came from the West, and, in
some instances, from the Southwest. As isshown by equally strong
evidence, they did not come from the inhabited portion of Eastern
Colorado, they must have come from the intermediate plains, and if
they were from the mountains, they must have passed down first,
then have changed their course and returned, while another portion
passed on to Texas, which is far more violent presumption than that
which I have given, which is that they were hatched on the plains as
the successors of those which left the Northwest in 1864. But where
such change of course occurs in the interior of the settled portions, it
may be merely a short flight from a neighboring section after their
first halt, and argues nothing then; but the evidence in this case ap-
pears to apply to their general direction, and not to a merely local
movement.

I have dwelt somewhat at length upon this point because I have
long had doubt in regard to the correctness of the idea that all the
swarms which invade these border States sweep down from their dis-
tant hatching grounds ina single generation, as if they knew by a
new and recently-obtained instinct rich fields of corn were to be found
in Kansas and Nebraska. I had hoped the facts in regard to the re-
cent invasion would settle this question, but as these have yet to be
gathered, except a few which correspond with those of 1867, and agree
with the view I have advanced, we must for the present rely upon
those already known, in reference to past incursions.

It is certainly strange that they should always pass over this belt
of 200 or 800 miles—on which the herds of buffaloes have flourished
for ages—without making a halt. Where do the numerous herds go
which leave the mountains but never reach the settlements on the
east side? Most undoubtedly they spend their force upon the plains;
probably finding sufficient nourishment in the grasses of this area
they remain, diminishing year after year in numbers, or gradually
losing their migrating disposition.

Let us now consider fur a moment the possibility of fighting these
hordes from the fields after their arrival, or of destroying them by
direct means and mechanical appliances. In the first place, just when
they are coming and where they are going to stop, hitherto has been
one of those things which has never been ascertained. Whether this

51

need always be the case, is to be seen. Here, then, is one very mate-
rial difficulty to commence with. But let us suppose all the farmers
of Kansas and Nebraska are thoughtful, and also abundantly able to
have prepared all the machinery, patent appliances and nostrums
Yankee ingenuity or entomological science can devise, and that they
are carefully kept ready for use when the day of battle comes. I now
ask the reader to take his stand with me in imagination upon one of
the beautiful grassy ridges or green mound-like hillocks of Nebras-
ka or Kansas, as, for example, the valley of Big-Blue in the former,
or College Hill, at Manhattan, in the latter, (and if he has never done
this in reality, he has missed a sight worth seeing) and look over the
beautiful rolling prairies and spreading valleys, and compare the
occupied and cultivated area before him with the broad surroundiag
expanse of unoccupied land. Let him extend his imagination a lit-
tle farther: It is a beautiful morning, about the first of August; not
even fleecy cloud specks the sky, although a breeze is sweeping down
from the northwest; the fields of corn in sight reflect the silvery
beams from seas of waving leaves, while their tasseled heads gently
bow before the breeze. Allat once, about ten o’clock, a dark shadow
is seen moving rapidly over the plains from the northwest; the rays
of thesun are suddenly cut off, and the entire scene appears as though
beneath some vast canopy which has been overspread ; for gazing up-
ward, he beholds the heavens filled with broad, living, silvery snow-
flakes, and then a shower thick as rain, but dropping like pebbles,
descends striking his hat, his hands, his upturned face, and the
ground around, with a sudden and peculiar thud. Grasshoppers!
grasshoppers by the millions! This exclamation is also the explana-
tion—

Onward they come, a dark continuous cloud
Of congregated myriads numberless,

The rushing of whose wings was asthe sound
Of a broad;river headlong in its course,
Planged from a mountain summit, or the roar
Of a wild ocean in the Autumn storm,
Shattering its billows on a shore of rocks.

He watches the myriads of restless workers for a few hours, and ere
the sun has set sees the corn stripped of its green leaves, and the beau-
tiful green covering of the scene changed almost to a barren waste

It is true this is given as an imaginary sketch, yet those who have
beheld the arrival and operations of these hordes will scarcely con-
sider it greatly exaggerated or far from correct.

In one of the letters given by Prof. Riley in his Seventh Report, I
find the following statement:

“They appeared on Sunday, July 26, at about six o’clock P. M.
They were so thick in the air that they appeared like a heavy snow-
storm ; those high in the air forming apparently light fleecy clouds,
while those dropping to the earth resembled flakes of snow. Next
morning, Monday the 27th, at daylight the country was literally coy-
ered with grasshoppers. Soon after sunrise they collected on the
growing crops, young trees, etc., and commenced eating, and before
night had eaten the leaves from almost every green thing.”

A resident of Nebraska, whose place I had visited before the inva-
sion, describing their arrival, stated that they arrived about ten A.
M., darkening the sky with their numbers; that by three P. M. the

52

corn—the chief crop of that section—was completely stripped of its
blades.

Now what can the farmer do with his one or two assistants in his
family, assisted by all the appliances they could operate, in presery-
ing a field of eighty or even forty acres of corn, and from such an at-
tack as this; especially when we remember that as soon as it is cleared
of one set of these devourers another stands ready to pour in upon it
from the surrounding prairies? Besides, there can be no combina-
tion of forces, for at such times all are similarly situated, and delay
is fatal. So far, man appears tobe powerless at such times, as with the
force the pioneer farmers of these border States usually have at com-
mand, but little progress could be made toward harvesting their crops
after the swarms appear. And even if this were possible, which is
seldom the case, it is usually valueless except as fodder ; but even this
would be worth the trouble, as it would assist in preserving stock.

The farmer usually sits down in blank dispair, and in gloomy si-
lence beholds the work of destruction ; nur can we wonder at it when
we consider the suddenness and magnitude of the attack. It is there-
fore certain that the only means of counteracting these inroads must
be preventive ; and which appears to be possible.

1. It would certainly be in vain for even the national government
to attempt to exterminate them by destroying the eggs in the various
hatching grounds which extend from British America to Colorado.

2. If the swarms which reach the border States come from a lim-
ited area along the east flank of the mountains, the destruction of the
eggs by any temporary means, even if possible, would be of compara-
tively little value, as the hordes sweeping down from the mountain
regions would soon replace them. Irrigation, so far as I can see, is the
only permanent means, and this, 1 am satisfied from a careful study
of the drainage of these regions, is possible only in the area named
in a portion of that section of the Upper Missouri country west of the
Judith Mountains.

3. Signal stations in these regions connected by telegraph lines
with the sections they visit, might possibly give warning in time to
gather such crops as would be of value, but these lines would have to
be so arranged as to trace the usual line of march of these insects.
What effect firing the prairies on their approach would have, I am
unable to say, but it is possible it might cause them to move on, as
was the case in some instances mentioned in the accounts of their
invasions recorded.

4. Although I have but little faith in Indian industry, yet it may
be that a premium offered them for eggs and grasshoppers, would in-
duce them to gather them in the regions over which they roam; and
as the government undertakes any way to feed them, it might be well
enough to make a trial, and thus perhaps beget in the young some
faint idea of industry and its results. If the experiment should prove
successful it would be some help, be it ever so small, toward staying
the ravages of these locust pests, and it would be simply another
mode of paying the Indians, and if rightly planned no additional
expense to the government. Asregards the resulting brood the
farmer does not appear to be so helpless as he does with the incoming
hordes. The former coming gradually and presenting various points

53

of attack, does not fill him with terror as do the suddenness and mag-
nitude of the attack in the latter case.

In an article of mine, recently published in the Prairie Farmer, I
stated that the farmers, after a few years’ experience with these in-
sects, generally learn all the means of local defense possible; and, as
a general rule, the entomologist must learn these, not from any scien-
tific knowledge of the insect, but from the practical experiments
made by the farmer. All modes of attack and defense which in any
way depend upon the knowledge of the habits of the insect which
are not patent to the unscientific eye, the entomologist is expected to
to perceive sooner than those who are not entomologists.

Although the farmer does not feel himself so helpless before the hatch-
ing brood as he does before the migratory hordes, yet he does not feel
able entirely to control them, even after long experience, is shown
by the following extracts from a letter sent me this season by a Ne-
braska farmer who has had some practical experience in the matter:

“Tama hard-working farmer, 46 years old; came to Nebraska in
1855; have a good farm, and seven children, and would be getting
along very well if the grasshoppers would let me alone. They are
getting worse, and we cannot stand it much longer. I only got five
bushels of corn to the acre last year, yet I had to help others, and
now we have millions of ‘hoppers’ again. Plowing, rolling and burn-
ing does but little good. * * Wise men say there is a parasite on
them. Well, we know something of the ‘hoppers’ and the parasite, on
and it never kills many of them, nor any of them until they are
nearly grown. But the birds eat millions of them before they are
larger than a grain of wheat. The small grasshoppers are too quick
for domestic fowls, but they get some of them when they are small,
and many of the larger ones. I think the birds have eaten half of
those hatched on my farm, but they are getting too large for them
(Date, June 1, 1875.) The farmers will all tell you the birds eat them
but they have killed many of the birds.”

First, the destruction of the eggs deposited. In thickly settled
counties, where labor is cheap, and there are large landed estates, as
France and Italy, it may be possible to do this somewhat effectually,
and it will effect something even in our border States; but when the
invasion is general, and the eggs are deposited over a large area,
what can the farmers do toward destroying them, not only on their
farms, but also in the much larger area surrounding them ?

The following, from a French newspaper in 1841, will give some
idea of the work of collecting grasshoppers in. Southern Europe:
“ Such immense quantities of locusts have appeared this year inSpain
that they threaten in some places to entirely destroy the crops. At
Damiel, in the province of Cuidad-Real, three hundred persons are
constantly employed in collecting these destructive insects, and
though they destroy seventy or eighty sacks every day, they do not
appear to diminish.” This number in the vicinity of a single city,
on a very limited area.

As a practical test, let us take a county in Kansas, say Rice county,
which has an area of 720 square miles, and a population, according to
the last report of the Kansas Board of Agriculture, of 2,396, and a
voting population.of about 260 or 275. Suppose eggs to have been

54

deposited generally over this area, what progress could they have
made toward collecting them during the season? But let us see the
condition after the invasion. A correspondent of the Board writes :
“ Having traveled over the largest part of our county, I find that about
three-fourths of our people are almost entirely destitute of food, fuel
and clothing. Some are now living on boiled wheat, and not half
enough of that.” And the report adds: “S. T. Kelsey thinks that
500 persons in Rice county will need assistance.” And now we may
ask in what condition they were to devote their time to collecting
grasshoppers’ eggs when want was staring them in the face. If a
liberal reward had been offered by the State or general government,
although they might have made but little progress with the work as
compared with the amount necessary to be done to be effectual, yet it
would have done some good, and would have afforded at the same time
some relief, and I believe that is always best wherever it can be done
to apply a remedy which will do good in one direction if it fails inthe
other.

Destruction of the larve and pupe. A number of methods to
accomplish this desired end have been tried and recommended, as
rolling the surface in order to crush them, plowing them under while
very young, ditching against them, collecting and destroying them in
various ways, burning, etc. There is no doubt but either of these
methods will effect something, and may well be tried, according to
circumstances, and in thickly settled districts, where the larger por-
tion of the land is under cultivation, and the force at command com-
paratively strong; these means, and some others which are hereafter
mentioned, may, and probably will, suffice to hold the enemy in
check, especially if the farmers maintain their courage and fight the
battle bravely and in concert. In thinly populated districts, and even
where the larger portion of the land is not under cultivation, and the
force at command weak, the case is not so hopeful, as the surrounding
uncultivated sections will furnish a new supply as fast as the previous
one is Gestroyed. Professor Riley informs us that ditching, as prac-
ticed in Western Missouri, appeared to be the best mode of defense
adopted, and, he thinks, will prove a specific against the young. A
ditch of the dimensions he gives, two feet deep and two wide, with
sharply perpendicular sides, will doubtless prove an effectual barrier
against the young lary; but the pups, though halting for a time,
will soon make the leap, and then the column will press onward.

T have noticed the larger irrigating ditches in Utah, with a water
surface of from three to four feet wide, covered with the wingless
crickets (Anabrus Simplex), which were floating hopelessly onward;
but although this was the case, the marching column passed onward
in its course with apparently undiminished numbers. And in Utah
and Colorada these ditches form but little impediment to the move-
ments of the pups of the Cispretus. Inthe cool of the morning in
those mountain regions, the farmers frequently drive the semi-torpid
young into the irrigating ditches, firing straw along one side to catch
those that leap the ditch. But among the chief agencies in this work
of destruction I am disposed to class birds and domestic fowls, and to
this end would recommend to the legislatures of the states suffering
from these visitations to pass stringent laws stopping entirely the
destruction of all insect-eating birds, not for a portion of the year

55

only, but for the entire year, and give a premium for the destruction
of rapacious birds. Let an officer be appointed, if necessary, in each
district, composed of four or five counties, whose duty it shall be to
see that the laws are enforced, and who shall also experiment in in-
troducing and multiplying the English sparrow or other insect-eating

birds of similar habits. It would be well for the state and county

agricultural societies to encourage the increase of domestic fowls so
far as possible. Hogs should be raised, as they are not only fond of
these insects and army worms, but would soon learn to hunt for the
egg sacks, as they do for acorns in an oak forest.

Driving into traps and ditching are remedies which have been long
practiced. Scott, in his “ Excursions into Ronda Granada,” as quoted
by Kirby, says: ‘ During our ride from Cordova to Seville, we
observed a number of men advancing in skirmishing order across the
country, and thrashing the ground most savagely with long flails.
Curious to know what might be the motive for this Xerxes-like treat-
ment of the earth, we turned out of the road to inspect their opéra-
tions. We found they were driving a swarm of locusts into a wide
piece of linen spread on the ground some distance before them,
wherein they are made prisoners.” Kirby adds in a note: “The
same plan is adopted for the destruction of these insects in some parts
of the United States—deep trenches being dug at the end of the fields,
into which the grasshoppers are driven with branches, and then des-
troyed by throwing earth upon them.” What has been beneficial
heretofore may be so again, and because it is old is no reason for
rejecting it for something new until the former has been thoroughly
tried.

But without discussing further the various methods of defense
against the young which experience and ingenuity, together with
some knowledge of the insect, may devise, I must sum up the matter
and close this article, which has already extended to too great a
length.

1. It is impossible to tell what may be done toward preventing
their incursions into the border states until their history has been
more thoroughly traced. This can only be done through the general
government, and with the aid of the military posts and stations.

2. While it would be folly to undertake to exterminate them in
their native haunts by destroying the eggs or the insects, yet, if it be
possible to induce the Indians by rewards to collect eggs and young
along the west side of the plains, it would be wise to do so, and would
as a matter of course, do something towards diminishing them.

3. When the investigation shows the usual hatching region and
line of travel, signal stations connected by telegraph lines with the
sections subject to invasions, may do much good by giving warning
of the coming locust storm.

4, It would be wise for the people of Kansas and Nebraska to rely
more upon wheat and root crops, as the hordes usually come too late
to injure the former, and cannot so greatly injure the latter as other
crops. But for the season after the incursion, when the young are
expected to hatch, this order will have to be somewhat reversed. This
branch of the subject, I think, has not received the attention of the
farmers of Kansas and Nebraska which it deserves.

56

5. It would be well for the States visited to offer rewards for the
eggs and young, for although it might do but little toward thinning
the pests, it would do some good in this direction, and would afford a
means of subsistence to the unfortunate.

6. These States should make stringent laws protecting the insect-
eating birds, and adopt a method of enforcing them that would be
carried out. It will pay them well to employ a naturalist to deter-
mine the species which should be preserved and those for whose de-
struction a reward should be offered. In addition to this, farmers
raise an abundance of domestic fowl, which will furnish food as well
as assist in destroying the locusts.

Lar d

7. It would be well for the farmers to raise more hogs wherever the
grounds are protected by fences, and they can be allowed to range.

8. Ditching against the young larva and driving into ditches and
fire, and such other local remedies as the situation and the means at
hand may suggest, should be employed, and the farmers should
bravely fight the battle.

Although the resulting brood generally proves more destructive in
the mountain regions than the incoming swarms, yet this does not
appear so far to have been the case in the Mississippi Valley, and
as a preventive or remedy for the original hordes, dispenses with the
necessity of battling with their progeny. It is against these the
general government should direct its efforts in an earnest and a deter-
mined manner.

In closing I would again remark that I am satisfied that Cspretus
will never become a permanent resident of the immediate valley of
the Mississippi; and if it should, it would no longer be migratory,
but would sink back into what may be supposed to be its normal con-
dition; and if it is but a variety of C femur-rubrum, would probably
revert to that form. I do not think the grasshoppers of Kansas and
Nebraska should prevent any one from migrating to those States more
than the chinch-bugs and droughts should prevent farmers locating
in Illinois, as the actual loss caused by the latter is probably much
greater than the former.

The mite which is mentioned in the letter was not received. It is
probably the Trombidium sericeum of Say, or Astoma gryllaria of Dr. Le
Baron—most likely the latter. The Caloptani, especially C. spretus,
C. femur-rubrum and C. bivittatus, are very liable to be attacked by these
parasites. I have occasionally received collections with scarcely a
specimen free from them.

ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES.
ARMY WORM.

This insect made its appearance at several points in Illinois in
1875, doing considerable damage on some farms, especially to young
corp. But it ddes rot appear to injure wheat very materially in the
southern portion of the State if the season is favorable—that is, not
dry. It strips off the blades, but seldom attacks the head, and this

57
only hastens the ripening, without injuring the grain; and it is only

of cool and rather moist seasons that the worms make their appear-
ance in migrating armies.

These insects invaded the grassy portion of my own yard, thus fur-
nishing me an opportunity of observing them somewhat carefully.
They appeared suddenly at the northwest border, moving eastward,
and coming apparently from a grassy plat lying west of mine, with
an alley between. But looking into that yard from the fence, I could
see no worms, nor had the owner of the premises noticed any—we did
not carefully examine the grass in which they had doubtless remained
hid until starting on their migrations. They were about half grown
when they entered my premises. It is unnecessary to follow the his-
tory of these specimens any farther, than simply to add that they
were all destroyed by the chickens, birdsand heat, as they had, in
their progress eastward, to cross a smooth croquet ground, where they
were exposed to the sun and their feathered enemies.

During this time the southwestern portion of the lot, which was
covered with grass, seemed to be wholly free from worms. I walked
over it once or twice each day looking carefully for them but found
only one, and that was larger than those migrating, fully grown, and
looked and acted so much like the ordinary cut-worms that I felt un-
certain in reference to it. About the time the migrating worms dis-
appeared, I noticed comparatively large spots of grass in the undis-
turbed area (southwest) dying without any apparent cause. Visiting
a friend in a neighboring village about this time, I noticed the grass
in his door-yard dying apparently in the same manner. This he in-
formed me was caused by ‘‘cut-worms.” Atonce suspecting the army-
worm, I made a careful examination and found them at work. Most
of them had already gone into the ground, and those that remained
were full-grown and presenting that peculiarappearance of the single
one already mentioned. Here then was evidence that this worm acts
in two roles: first, as a true cut-worm, working beneath the grass and
remaining hid from view; and second, as social and migratory. Ex-
amining my own injured grass I found it cut off and the surface of the
ground beneath it covered with the droppings of the worms which had
disappeared. As those which possessed the cut-worm habits, differed
somewhat in color and markings from the army or migratory worms,
it was necessary before my evidence was complete on that point, that
I should see the perfect insect or moth in order to prove specific
identity. Watching carefully the injured spots in my yard, [had the
pleasure on the evening of June 21st, of seeing a moth, a genuine
Lucania wunipuncta make its appearance. Still I was not satisfied as I
did not see it come out of the ground, and even if I had this would
scarcely be satisfactory evidence. But each evening after that, un-
til the 25th, several made their appearance, and were seen com-
ing out of the ground of the injured area, were secured and identified.
Here then was complete evidence that those acting the role of cut-
worms were specifically identical with the migratory hordes. Another
fact worthy of note is, that those acting as cut-worms in the injured
areas must have been fully grown, and perhaps mostly entered into
pupa state, when the migratory portion entered and were yet but half
grown. The oneset had no connection with the other; and precisely
the same thing was true at my friend’s locality referred to; no

58

worms were seen migrating in his yard where the grass was destroyed,
but a lot near by planted in oats was literally overrun by them, the
latter evidently of a later brood than the former.

The conclusion which I draw from these facts are: J rst, that this
species, in its normal condition, is a cut-worm, and that the disposi-
tion to migrate is abnormal; second, that the disposition to migrate
manifests itself very early in life, and possibly may begin in the pre-
vious generation; and third, that the two varieties are not distinct
races, but that the abnormal character is produced chiefly by climatic
causes, and not so much by want of food.

It may appear somewhat strange to speak of a disposition of this
kind, “ commencing in a previous generation,” yet that such may be
the case among insects I think will scarcely be doubted by those who
have studied them closely. That the abnormal condition of a species
or development of numbers is not usually the effect of the producing
cause during one generation, is well known. But I will not attempt
to argue this point now, as my object at present is merely to present
the new facts discovered in reference to this insect.

I endeavored to procure eggs from the moths, but those captured
instead of pairing in confinement, literally beat themselves to death
against the sides of their cage. They began to leave the ground of
an evening about sunset, but appeared in greatest abundance about.
the time it became fully dark. Their flight is strong, irregular and
plunging; darting from side to side for a short distance, they dive
suddenly into the grass with a force which would seem to be sufficient
to tear their wings to pieces. They fly low, seldom rising more than a
few feet from the ground, at least none entered the window of my
bed chamber, which is on the second floor, and opens directly opposite
and almost over the spot from which the greatest number came. But
they do not appear to be as readily attracted by light as many other
moths.

Prof. Riley, having dissected a number of the female moths, became
satisfied from the appearance of the telescopic ovipositor that they
must lay their eggs near the roots of the grass, and probably between
the blade and stem. He was also led to believe from the undeveloped
condition of the ovaries of specimens taken late in the season,
and ragged appearance of specimens captured in the spring, that it is
by no means an uncommon thing for them to winter in the perfect or
moth state.

Acting upon the hints furnished by the anatomy he watched care-
fully in the spring for the moth, and succeeded not only in finding
specimens, but in April of the present year had the satisfaction of
observing the female in the act of depositing her eggs. This, as has
always been supposed, takes place in the night; the eggs, according
to Prof. Riley, are usually placed along the inner base of the terminal
blades, where they are yet doubled. They are deposited “along the
groove in rows of from five to twenty, and covered with a white,
glistening, adhesive fluid, which not only fastens them to each other,
but draws the two sides of the grass-blade close around them, so that
nothing but a narrow glistening streak is visible.”

The facts thus obtained tend very strongly to the support (in part)
of the view Iso strongly advocated some years ago in the Prairie

:

Te

‘4 59

Farmer, that the insect passes the winter in the pupa state, and
although the evidence obtained by Prof. Riley indicates that some
-hybernate in the perfect state, yet I cannot think this is the usual
way. It is also possible that some pass the winter in the egg state,
but this I think is by no means common.

Burning of the grass in the spring where it can be done is evident-
ly the best preventive that is yet known. When a meadow becomes
badly infested, the grass had better be plowed under at once, thus
burying the worms, which, when they get to the surface will scarcely
be able to migrate, and a large number will perish before they can
return to the surface.

THE HARLEQUIN CABBAGE BUG.

This insect is a true bug belonging to the order Hemiptera, and has
for a mouth a horney jointed tube or beak similar to that of the com-
mon squash bug. Its scientific name is Murgantia histrionica, accord-
ing to the most recent arrangement ; formerly it belonged to the genus
Strachia.

It is easily distinguished by its form and its bright colors, although
the latter vary considerably, especially in different latitudes. Those
which have appeared in this section this season may be briefly des-
cribed thus:

Of an oblong-oval shape ; length two-fifths of an inch; width about
one-fourth of an inch. Colors black and orange, arranged usually as
follows: head black, with two short yellow stripes on the
face: thorax, with the lateral margins narrowly and hind mar-
gin broadly, a middle line, and an abbreviated line each side of the
middle, yellow; the corneous portion of each elytron yellowish, with
two oblique black bands, the membranous tips black; the scutel,
which is large, extending beyond the middle of the abdomen, is
black, with a middle yellow spot, often in the shape of a cross, and a
little dot near each shoulder. The young (larve) have the head and
thorax black ; the abdomen has a yellow line each side, and numerous
transverse lines alternately black and yellow, or whitish. These
colors vary considerably ; the thorax being sometimes mostly black,
and the black of the elytra occupying much of the yellow area; the
black is sometimes changed to blue-black, or even steel blue; the ight
portions vary from yellowish white to deep orange red.

I make a note of this species because it appeared this season in
Jackson county, in the southern part of the State, and I desire to
warn our farmers and gardeners tobe on their guard, and advise them
to crush it out at its very first appearance.

It is in fact a southern species which has been gradually making its
way north since the close of the late war. Texas appears to be the
place of its greatest development, or at least the point where it assumes
its typical characteristics, and where it probably finds its normal
latitude. It extends as far south as Guatamala, but was not found as
far north as Missouri until 1870; now it occurs in Kansas, Central
Missouri, and atleast as far north in I[llinoisasJackson county, and
perhaps as the latitude of St. Louis. Mr. Uhler states that it entered
Maryland since the war, and that now it is found as far north as Dela-
ware. .

60

There are several broods of this insect in its native southern
home. As those found in this county were not observed until the last
of September, it is evident it is at least two-brooded here.

No remedy, so far as Iam aware, has yet been ascertained other
than hand-picking. It is possible Paris green would kill them, but
the use of this is not admissable on cabbage or vegetables of which the
top or foliage is used as food. Ashes, lime, salt, &c., might possibly.
do some good if applied to the bugs while very young.

This tendency in certain species to migrate is as yet not well un-
derstood, and deserves the careful study of entomologists, as it will
probably explain many difficulties in reference to the distribution of
species.

Mamestra (Ceramica picta.) Tur Parnrep MAMESTRA.
( The Caterpillar is known as the “ Zebra.’’)

About the first of July Hon. O. B. Galusha forwarded me some in-
sect eggs, remarking playfully in an accompanying note, that he sent
me “some pea-bug eggs.” The eggs hatched, and under the careful
feeding and attention of my assistant, Miss Middleton, made their
way successfully to full growth.

The worms, when fully grown, are nearly two inches long and beau-
tifully colored. They are marked their entire length with very dis-
tinct stripes, alternately black and yellow, arranged as follows: <A
rather broad, deep, velvety-black medium stripe along the back,
slightly margined on each side with white; on each side of this black
stripe there is a bright-yellow stripe about equal in width to the for-
mer; in the middle of this on each segment, there is a small black
dot: next below these comes a rather broad blackish stripe, composed
of minute white and black transverse and somewhat netted; next
below this is another bright yellow stripe; below this and just above
the legs is a narrow white stripe, profusely sprinkled with black dots.
The head, ventral surface and legs are pale reddish-brown or tawny.
The surface of the body is almost entirely free from hairs.

This pretty caterpillar, to which Dr. Melsheimer applied the name
“ Zebra,” is the larva of a moth which has received the scientific
name Ceramica picta (formerly Mamestra picta.) The moth has pur-
ple-brown front wings varied with a shade of lighter brown in the
middle ; the hind wings are white, faintly edged with brown on the
upper and outer borders. It usually makes its appearance in the lat-
ter partof July. As the larve are frequently observed in the latter
part of August, in September, and even as late as October, it is more
than probable that it is double-brooded, and that it passes the winter
in the chrysalis state. The specimens which I received from the
eggs sent by Mr. Galusha, went into the pupa state about the tenth
of August, and up to this date (October 20,) has not appeared in the
perfect state. This fact will tend to throw some doubt on the suppo-
sition that it is double-brooded, but not sufficient to pronounce that
opinion incorrect.

Although eating various kinds of leaves which were offered them,
they preferred the leaves of the pea to any others given them; (cab-
bage, of which they are fond, was not offered,) thus confirming the
opinion implied in Mr. Galusha’s remark, that they are enemies to
the pea.

4

i
EF
er

vy
NR
ii

61

i Selandria rubi. Tur Raspperry Siva.

_ This insect appeared upon the raspberry plants this year at several
points in the Northern and Western portions of the State, doing con-
siderable injury. I also received letters’ from Iowa informing me of
their appearance in that State, and complaining that they had almost
entirely denuded the plants of their foliage, in some cases. As re-
quested by the writers, I replied through one of the agricultural
papers, (The Western Farm Journal,) giving the name of the insect
and the remedies recommended.

The worms, up to their last moult, are smooth and green; the head
black or marked with a central black spot; they have twenty-two
feet, those on the middle segments being very small. After their last
moult, they have spines on the body.

The perfect insect is a small four-winged fly belonging to the order
Hymenoptera and family Tenthredinidx, having somewhat the appear-
ance of a short, thick-bodied wasp. It is of a dusky color.

This species has heretofore appeared at various points in Illinois
and Iowa in considerable numbers, but it does not appear to have re-
mained long, which indicates that it is subject to some destructive
parasite, and that it will not continue year after year in great num-
bers at any one place.

It belongs to that group of insects whose larvee have received the
name of “Slugs.” It is probable, therefore, that a remedy applicable
to a closely allied species will be equally beneficial if applied to this.
I call attention, therefore, to the use of white hellebore, which Mr.
Walsh believed to be a specific for the gooseberry slug. He recom-
mended applying the powder with a cup attached to a rod, and hay-
ing a piece of thin muslin tied over the mouth or top; taking care to
stand to the windward during the operation, as it causes violent
sneezing if taken into the nostrils.

Mr. Saunders, of London, Ontario, Canada, experimenting with the
imported gooseberry saw-fly (Nematus ventricosus) found that if the
hellebore was mixed with water, an ounce and a half to the pail of
water, it was much more effectual than if applied in powder. He
tried the carbolate of lime, which has been so strongly recommended
by some for these and similar slugs, but the result was far from satis-
factory. It is possible that finely powdered lime sprinkled on the
raspberry slugs when quite young, especially if this is done very early
in the morning while they are at work will besufficient. As a usual
thing, I believe they commence feeding before day-light.

wah ra ni
ale may a
Ler Way

PART ie

THE INTRODUCTION TO, AND FIRST PART OF,

Pera NUEL OF ECONOMIC ENPOMOLOGGY

FOR THE

VNLATE OF ILEINOLS.

THE PART HEREIN PRESENT INCLUDES ONLY THE COLEOPTERA, OR BEETLES.
@

j 65

lejea wl hie ;

As it is my desire to make this report a “Manual of Economic Ento-
mology for Illinois,” and through it to familiarize the farmers and hor-
ticulturalists of our State, as far as possible, with insects which
destroy their crops, injure their fruit and ornamental trees, and infest
their gardens, it is proper that I should first explain the terms used
and give in as plain and simple language as possible the character of
the insect class and of its larger sub-divisions. I am fully aware that
in doing this I shall have to go over ground that has been repeatedly
traversed, therefore I shall be brief, avoiding as far as possible repeat-
ing what has been so well presented by Dr. LeBaron in his Fourth
Report, giving only such explanations as will suffice to render intel-
ligible to the general reader what is herein written, and what may
be necessary for practical purposes. °

Those who desire further information on this subject are referred to —

more extensive entomological works.

‘What is an Insect? This is the first question presented when we
attempt to study entomology, or that science which treats of insects,
and it is necessary that we should be able to answer it whether we
investigate them scientifically or for practical purposes only.

If the reader will examine carefully a common wasp he will notice

»that the body is divided by transverse indentations inio three re- ~

- gions; the front part being the head, which bears one pair of jointed
» thread-like horns called antenne ; the middle portion which is called
the trunk, or more correctly the thorax, has attached to it on the under
side six articulated legs, on the upper side two pairs of wings; the
hinder part, which is composed of similar rings, is the abdomen.

If we examine a common cray-fish, we shall find the head consoli-
dated with the thorax, so as to leave no line of distinction between
the two; it also has ten legs and two pairs of antenne. If we now
take a spider or tick ‘we do not find the body divided into three parts,
two of them and sometimes all three being apparently consolidated
into one; we shall also figd eight legs and no antenne, though in
some we may observe a p&ir of feelers which look very much like a
fifth pair of legs.

An examination of a milliped or “thousand legged worm,” shows a

_ distinct head which bears one pair only of attennz, but the rest of
the body consists of numerous similar rings, presenting no distinct
thorax, and the legs are numerous.

E—5

W441

66

All of these animals agree in having the body composed of more 0
less distinct rings or segments, and in having limbs composed of sev
eral pieces connected by movable joints; in other words they are al
articulated animals, belonging to that grand division of the anima
kingdom caled-articulata.

Having made these examinations we can easily understand thi
characters by which we define or designate an insect which are a
follows :

» Insects are those articulated animals which have the body divided into thre

sections, the head, thorax and abdomen; the head distinct and bearing on
parr of attenne, six articulated legs attached to the thorax ; wings, when pre:
ent, attached to the thorax.

Other characters relating to the digestive and respiratory organ:
and nervous system might be given, but these have already beer
given by Dr. Le Baron, and the above characters are sufficient for ou1
present purposes.

Taking this definition as our guide, we find that beetles, cock:
roaches, crickets, grasshoppers, chinch-bugs, squash-bugs, dragon-flies
bees, wasps, ants, butterflies, moths, house-flies and mosquitoes, are
all insects, but that spiders, ticks, millipeds, centipedes and many
other small animals often called insects, are, in fact, not true insects,

The sub-kingdom, or grand division of the animal kingdom, called
Articulata, and to which all the animals we have mentioned belong, is
divided into groups or divisions, each called a Class, all the true Insects
taken together forming one Class, the millipeds, centipedes, and ani-
mals of th&t kind forming another Class, the spiders, ticks, and
animals of that kind forming another Class, ete.

We have defined an Insect as an articulate animal with just six:
legs; yet there are caterpillars with more than twice this number,|
and these change into butterflies, which are true insects. a 1

In giving the characters which define the Class, order or species of
insects, we usually select the perfect or complete form. Therefore, in.
attempting to determine or describe a species it is necessary to know |
in what stage of its existence the specimen is, as the characters
given, unless otherwise expressly stated, always apply to the perfect)
or complete state. Take, for example the caterpiller and the butter-|
fly; the one a loathsome worm, divided by cross indentations into’
similar rings, possessing numerous legs differing in character, with
biting jaws, and wingless, the other with a body very different in}
form, possessing four wings, only six legs which are slender and/
jointed ; and the mouth now a long flexible tube. As every reader)
knows, the gay butterfly was once a caterpiller; in other words, that)
these widely different forms are but the different Stages of the same)
insect. As is equally well known, the caterpillar was once closed |
around by the walls of a tiny egg; and that before it can change its
somber dress for the bright colors of the butterfly, it must pass through |
another stage where it must rest quite for a time as a chrysalis. It is)
evident, therefore, that there are four stages in the life of an insect ; first |
the egg state, second the caterpillar or /arva state, third the crysalis <
pupa state, and fourth the complete and perfect state to which the
term imago is frequently applied.

67

_ The characters, therefore, which we havé given, by which to know
an insect apply to the perfect state or ¢mago alone and not to all stages
of its life.

We have spoken of the transformations or changes the butterfly
undergoes as an illustration of the different stages of insect life,—first
there was the egg; second the caterpillar or larva; third the chrysalis
or pupa, during which it was quiet and in apparently a dormant
‘state; and fourth the perfect insect or imago; all of these being very
distinctly marked in the life of the butterfly. But all insects do not
‘undergo such marked and distinct changes, in fact many can scarcely
be said to undergo any transformations, yet the terms larva, pupa and
imago, or perfect, are used to designate the corresponding stages in their
life.

‘

__ Take for example a common grasshopper as soon as hatched, though
diminutive in size, it has the form of the full grown or perfect insect,
‘wanting only the wings; it is now a larva, after a while it acquires
the rudiments of wings, it is now a pupa; but instead of changing
Apto a quiet and dormant chrysalis, it continues active and feeding as
-voraciously as before; after repeated moultings it acquires full and
complete wings (if it is a winged species) and is then a perfect insect.

_ Such transformations or metamorphoses (another name for these
thanges) as the butterfly undergoes, are called complete, because the
various stages are well marked; while those which the grasshopper
‘undergoes are called incomplete, as the different stages are not dis-
tinctly marked by different modes of life. The former, or complete,
is often designated by saying “ the pupa is inactive;” the latter, or
‘incomplete, by saying “the pupa is active.”

If we trace the life history of a beetle, wasp, bee, butterfly, common
‘fly, and many other insects, we shall find their transformations are
‘complete, while in att the rest they are incomplete, which furnishes us
one very important character by which to separate insects into differ-
ent groups or divisions, and assists in determining to which one of

jthese divisions a specimen belongs, while in the preparatory states, ——~ ©

(that-is;-while.atlarva.or pupa.) But as this character, to be useful,
requires a knowledge of the entire life of the insect, we seek for such
)characters as it bears always with it in the perfect state. & will
‘therefore, proceed to give briefly those characters by which we deter-
»mine the larger divisions of the class.

If we examine the mouth of a beetle, wasp, bee, grasshopper, cock-
wroach, cricket and dragon fly, we will find that they have strong,
horny jaws which open sidewise. These strong jaws are called mand?-
bles, and all those species which possess them, mandzbulate insects.
All species which do not have horny jaws, have the mouth drawn out
‘into a more or less elongated tube, sometimes horny and jointed as in
the squash bug, sometimes long, flexible and coiled as in the butter-
‘flies, and sometimes short, thick and fleshy, as in the common fly.
(Such mouths are evidently adapted to sucking and are, therefore,
‘called Haustellate and the species which possess them Haustellate in-
ects. This fact affords us a very distinct and easily observed charac-
er by which we may separate all insects into two groups, or in other
swords, the Class into two Divisions. But before making use of this
character, I will introduce certain terms used as the names of the

~ flies, ete.

68

various divisions of the class which will save repetition, and t
greatly shorten our work.

The Insect Class is separated by the characters hereafter to be nary}
into seven Divisions called Orders. These have received the folld
ing names:

Coleoptera. Which includs the beetles.

Orthoptera. Including the cockroaches, crickets, katy-dids and era
hoppers.

Neuroptera. Including dragon flies or musquito hawks, lace-wi
flies, May flies, and white ants or termites.

Hymenoptera. Including the wasps, bees, ants, saw flies, Ichneum

Lepidoptera. Including the butterflies and moths (or millers.)

Hemiptera. Including bark-lice, plant-lice, such bugs as the squée
bug and three-lined potato bug, the seventeen-year locust, etc.

Diptera. Including the two-winged flies. E

As all the species belonging to any one order have similar mout
—that is all have biting-jaws or all have sucking tubes—we m|
arrange them into two Sections, thus— |

|

|

Section 1. Manpreu.ate or GNAwING INsEcrs. Coleoptera, Ortii
petra, Neuroptera and Hymenoptera. |

Section 2. HausTeLuate or Sucking Insects. Lepidoptera, H
miptera and Diptera.

But the reader must remember this applies to the perfect insec
and not to the larve ; as caterpillars, which belong to the Lepidopte
have biting jaws, while the perfect insect, which is a butterfly
moth, has the mouth drawn out into a long flexible tube.

The other characters by which these Orders -are distinguished fra
each other, may be briefly stated as follows : |

Order CoLroprrra. The upper wings of a hard, horny texture a
usually inflexible, meeting in a straight suture along the middle |
the back, partially or entirely covering the abdomen; under win
thin and membranous, folded both lengthwise and crosswise when
rest ; transformations complete ; the pupa inactive. ;

Order OrTHoprERA. Upper wings leathery or parchment like, :
usually over-lapping the other more or less at the base ; under wing
thin, and membranous, folded lengthwise only, like a fan ; transform
tions incomplete ; pupa active.

Order Nevroprera. All four wings membranous and transparenj
similar, and the hind pair often as large as the anterior pair, W
many branching veins, and usually many cross veins ; abdomen
the female not furnished with a sting or ovipositor; transformati¢
various.

Order Hymenoptera. All four wings membranous, more or le
transparent, with comparatively few veins, usually narrow, andl
posterior pair always smaller than the anterior pair; abdomen of i
female furnished at the tip with a sting or Ovipositor ; transformatiot
complete ; pupa inactive.

69

rder LePipopreRA. Wings four, covered with very minute bran-
ie scales; mouth in the form of a long flexible tube coiled beneath
» head when at rest ; transformations complete ; pupa inactive.

Irder HEMIPTERA. ‘Wings four; mouth in the form of a jointed,
mey tube, bent or turned under the breast when at rest.

'. Sub-order. Hrtrroprera. Upper wings horney and somewhat

ckened at the base, the tips membranous and overlapping each

ier ; under wings membranous, similar in form to the upper ones,
; folded ; all resting flat on the abdomen when at rest.

t. Sub- Bales: HomorterRA. Upper wings of the same texture
oughout, more or less membranous, not lapping over each other,
i deflexed at the sides, like a roof when at rest.

Jrder Diprera. Wings two, thin and membranous, and ugually
asparent ; posterior pair represented by minute knobbed Betas
ath a short fleshy tube enlarged at the tip; transformations com-
te; pupa inactive. .

us will be seen, the Order Hemiptera is divided into two sub-orders,
ccount of the differences i in the wings; this will be more fully
wn hereafter when we reach this order.

[aving now explained what is meant by the term Order, and having
en briefly their characteristics, it will be necessary for us here to
raduce some other terms used in classifying insects, also some scien-
names of certain sub-divisions which will hereafter have to be
{uently used.

s before stated, the great division of the animal kingdom called
iculata is divided into classes, the insects, all taken together, form-
one class ; these classes are divided into Orders. But the division
3 not stop here, for Orders are composed of Families, families of
‘era (singular Genus), and genera of Species. Or to reverse this and
strate: the common mouse is a species, the common rat another;
se, and several other species, belong to one genus; the prairie
ase and a number of other small field mice belong to another genus;
musk-rat to another; these, and several other genera agreeing in
ain respects, form a Family y. This family, the squirrel family,
ver, gopher, and other families agreeing in certain respects, are
ed into one Order, called Rodentia or gnawers. In the same way
cts are arranged in species, genera, families and orders. As a
eral rule all the species of a family have sufficient resemblance to
1 other to enable even unscientific persons, by a little study and
srvation, to associate them with reasonable correctness, and among
acts they usually have somewhat similar habits, so that knowing
habits of a given family, when we find a species belonging to it we
‘e a pretty correct idea of its habits. °

THE FAMILIES OF THE DIFFERENT ORDERS.

ving thus briefly explained the classification, I will give an
ine of the division of the orders into families, omitting those
; are unimportant, and which we shall have no occasion to refer

70

COLEOPTERA.

As Dr. LeBaron’s Fourth Report gives the names and characters of
the families of this order, I will only mention the family names and
the kind of insects belonging thereto.

Cicindea and Carabide—Predaceous ground-beetles ; very beneficial.
Dytiscide and Gyrinide—Predaceous water-beetles ; beneficial.
Hydrophilide—W ater scavenger-beetles ; beneficial.

Silphidae, Histeridae and a number of other small families. Land
scavenger-beetles ; mostly beneficial. Nitidulide and Dermestide
which belong in this group, contain a few injurious species. __

Staphylinide—Minute, short-winged scavenger-beetles ; beneficial.

Incanidae—The stag-beetles ; mostly innoxious; a few injurious.

Copridae. Aphodiide. Geotrupide and Trogide—Dung-beetles ;
mostly beneficial ; a few injurious.

Dynastide, Melolonthide, Rutelide and Cetontide—Leaf-chafers ;
more or less injurious, both in the perfect and larval state.

Buprestide—Saw-horned wood-beetles. Injurious; the larve being
chiefly wood or stem borers.

Elateride—Wire-worm beetles. Larve injurious to roots of grass
and other plants.

Ptinide Lymexylonide Cupeside—Small wood-beetles. The larve
and some of the perfect insects injure trees and other plants by bor-
ing into theni.

Lampyridz and Cleride—Carnivorous species ; mostly beneficial.

Bruchide and Curculionidae—Snout-beetles; injurious to all parts of
plants, especially the fruits.

Scolyttdae—Short-horned wood-borers ; larve injurious.

Cerambycidae—Long-horned wood-borers ; larve injurious.

Chrysomelidae—Plant-beetles; larvee, and in some cases the perfect
insects injurious, eating the foliage of plants, etc.

Coccinellidae—‘Lady-bugs ;” beneficial.

ORTHOPTERA.

This order contains but few families, which are easily recognized.
Blattidae—The cockroaches ; injurious.

Mantidae—Soothsayers or “Devil’s horses ;” beneficial.
Phasmidae—Spectres or walking-sticks ; innoxious.

Acrididae—The true locusts, but aealiy! called grasshoppers 1 in this
country ; very injurious.

loxehitae Tbs true grasshoppers, but generally known as katy |
dids and wingless crickets; injurious.

Gryllidae—The true crickets: more or less injurious.

NEUROPTERA.
There are but few species belonging to this order which are injuri-

ous, and so far as the Illinois species are concerned, we may piace the —
entire order on the side of beneficial insects, the exceptions being so —

few.

4

71

Termatidae—The white ants; injurious.
. Psocidae—W ood-lice, death-watches, etc.; innoxious.
| Ltbellulidae—The dragon-flies or mosquito-hawks ; beneficial, prey-

ing upon gnats and mosquitoes, etc.
_ Ephemeridae and Phryganidae, including the May-flies and what, in

some sections, are called fish-flies. Beneficial; the larvae, which live
in water, devour aquatic insects.

Myrmelionidae—The perfect insects appear like slender dragon-flies ;
the larvae are called ant-lions; beneficial.

Hemerobiidae—The late-winged flies. Very beneficial; great ene-
mies to plant-lice.

Mantispidae—Mantis-like insects ; beneficial.
Panorpide—Scorpion flies; beneficial.

HYMENOPTERA.

A large majority of the insects which belong to this order are either
beneficial or innoxious, yet there are some that are quite injurious to
plants. .

Tenthredinide—The saw-flies; injurious. The larve, which are
false caterpillars, are leaf-eaters.

Uroceride—Thorn-tails. Injurious ; the larve being wood-borers.

Oynipide—Gall-flies ; minute four-winged flies whose larve reside
in galls produced through their agency on the leaves, twigs and stems
of plants; hence, injurious.

Ichneumonide—Ichneumon flies; an immense family of usually
slender wasp-like insects which generally deposit their eggs in the:
body of other insects, thus destroying them; very beneficial.

Chalcidide—Chalcis flies. Minute four-winged flies with habits sim-
ilar to the ichneumon flies. Some of the species deposit their eggsin
the eggs of other insects, thus destroying them; very beneficial.

Proctotrwpide--An extensive family of very minute four-winged
parasitic flies. Habits somewhat similar to those of the chalcis flies,
but more especially parasitic on the eggs of other insects ; beneficial.

Formicide—The ants. Somewhat injurious.

Scoliidx, Pompilidx, Sphegidx, Bembicide and Larride—Various kinds
of sand-wasps ; predaceous and hence beneficial.

Crabriouide—W ood-wasps. Predaceous and beneficial.

Vespide—W asps, hornets and yellow jackets. Mcre or less beneficial,
at least they are seldom injurious to vegetation, and assist to a cer-
tain extent in destroying other insects.

Apidae—The bees.

LEPIDOPTERA.

This order contains a large number of species, most of which are
injurious to vegetation while in the larval state. The larvae are cat-
erpillars. There is*much difference in the arrangement of the fami-
lies proposed by different authors; I give that adopted by Dr. Pack-
ard, as his work can be readily obtained by those who desire to pur-

72

sue the study farther, and his illustrations are drawn chiefly from
species found in this country.

Papilionidae—The butterflies, day-fliers.

Sphingidae—The hawk-moths or humming-bird-moths. Mostly
twilight flyers.

Aegeridae—The aegerians, whose larvae are mostly root or stem-bor-
ers.

Zygaenidae—A small family containing species which appear to be

eintermediate between butterflies and true moths.

Bombycidae—The spinners. Some are beneficial, others injurious.

Noctuidae—The owlet moths. A very extensive family of mostly
dull colored moths, including a large portion of the species whose cat-
erpillars do so much injury to the farmer, orchardist and gardener.

Geometridae, (phalaenidae)—The geometers or measurers; whose
larvae, on account of the peculiar looping of the body when moving,
have received the name of measuring worms.

Pyralidae—The snout-moths, so called from their long, slender and
somewhat flattened feelers. (palpi).

Tartricidae—The leaf rollers ; so called on account of the habit which
the larvae have of rolling up the leaves of the trees and plants on
which they feed. .

Tineidae—The tineids, a very extensive family of minute moths,
which, in the larval state are found attacking vegetation at almost
every point and in various modes.

Pterophoridae—The plume moths; a small family, so called on ac-
count of the feather form of their wings.

HEMIPTERA.

This,order, as before stated, is divided into two sub-orders, the dif-
ference ‘in the wings being the chief characteristic that separates
them, but there are corresponding differences which run through
these divisions, though not so manifest as that presented by the
wings.

SuB-oRDER. HomorrEra.—The following are the families belong-
ing to this section or division of the order.

Cicadidae—The cicadae, ,seventeen year locust, harvest-flies, &c.;
these injure plants to a certain extent by piercing them with the
ovipositor and depositing eggs therein ; also by sucking the juices of
plants.

Fulgoridae and Cercopidae—Tree and leaf-hoppers which do more or
less injury to plants, especially woody plants, by piercing the bark,
stems, twigs,*leaves, &c., and sucking the juices therefrom.

Psyllidae and Aphidae—Plant lice ; injurious.

Coccidae—Bark-lice ; injurious.

SUB-ORDER—HETEROPTERA.

This division contains the following families :

Notonectidae and Nepidae—Predaceous water-bugs, and hence benefi-
cial.

73

Hydrometridae—W ater-measurers ; not injurious.
Reduwudae—Rapaceous bugs, and hence beneficial.
Cimicidae—Bed-bugs. Noxious. |

Capsidae Lygaeidae Corisidae and Scutelleridae—Families containing
most of the injurious species of the sub-order.

__ Thripidae—Thrips—Minute insects found in flowers and other ten-
der parts of plants.

DIPTERA.

_ This order contains a vast number of species, which have been ar-
ranged very differently by different authors. I shall mention only a
few of the principal families.

Culicidae—The mosquitoes and gnats.

Cecidomyidae—The gall-gnats, including the wheat-fly, Hessian-fly,
and other injurious species.
Tipulide—The long-legged gnats.
Pulicide—The fleas.
Simulide—Black gnats.
Tabanide—Horse-flies and golden eyed forest-flies.
Asilide—Robber-flies ; large, rapacious flies.
Syrphide—Syrphus-flies ; very beneficial.
(Hestridex—Bot-flies and breeze-flies.
Muscide—House-flies, flesh-flies, blue-bottle flies, &c.
Hippoboscide—Forest-flies and sheep-ticks.

In order to assist the unscientific reader as far as possible in his
effort to find, by means of this report, any insect mentioned, I will
illustrate here the method of determining the Order to which any
perfect insect belongs, which is the first step in determining the
species.

Suppose he finds a species very abundant which he suspects is con-
nected with certain larve which have been very injurious to a partic-
ular plant. Examining its mouth he finds it has biting jaws, it is
evident from what has been already stated that it belongs either to
the Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Neuroptera, or Orthoptera, as these are the
only orders which have biting jaws. The upper wings are hard and
horny, and the under wings are thin and membranous, and folded,
both lengthwise and crosswise. By examining the characters of the
mandibulate orders, as already given, he finds it must belong to
Coleoptera, as this is the only order with biting jaws which has wings
of this character. If the upper wings are leathery or parchment-like,
and the under wings membranous, and folded lengthwise like a fan,
it must belong to Orthoptera. Suppose it has four wings, all of which
are thin and membranous, and that it has biting jaws ; it must belong
either to Hymenoptera or Neuroptera; if it has a sting this shows at once
that it belongs to the former; if the wings are all equal size, and
crossed by numerous veins, and it has no sting, it is a species of the
latter order.

If it has a sucking mouth it must belong either to Lepidoptera,
Hemiptera, or Diptera, and the mouth and wing characters given will
readily determine to which of these it appertains.

74

By comparing his insect in this way with the characters of the or-
ders as heretofore given he can soon ascertain to which it belongs. It
is,true this is but one step toward arriving at the desired end, but it
greatly limits the field of search, and is often sufficient when aided by
a knowledge of its history from personal observation to direct him at
once to the species he is in search of.

PREPARATORY STATES.

As a knowledge of the preparatory states of insects (those states or
stages of life which precede the perfect form) is of the utmost im port-
ance in investigating the habits of and devising remedies against in-
jurious species, I present here some general considerations on this
subject.

With few exceptions (such as blow-flies and a few other species)
insects are produced from eggs deposited by the perfect female, the
larvee and pupe being incapable of reproduction ; hence the idea
sometimes advanced by unscientific observers, that caterpillars or
grubs deposit eggs from which similar worms are produced is wholly
amistake. That alarva my and often does bear within it one or
more eggs is true, but these have beendeposited there by some perfect
insect which is parasitic upon that larva; and these eggs if undis-
turbed will produce small grubs or worms which may be taken by the
uninformed for the young of the larvain which they are found, when
in fact, they are internal parasites which will prey upon and ulti-
mately destroy their host.

The eggs of insects vary materially in form according to the spe-
cies depositing them. Usually they are globular or nearly so, some
are conical, others cylindrical, others shaped like flax seed, etc.; some
are covered by little ribs or minute raised lines, and others have little
appendages at one end. They are deposited in various situations
according to the habits of the different Species; many species fasten
them by a gummy substance to the surface of the leaves, as the
squash-bug and the Colorado potato-beetle; some place them in the
lower, that the young larve may penetrate the fruit, as the codling
moth ; others pierce the pods or pulpy fruit, and deposit them there,
in order that the young may find nourishment ready at hand, as the
“pea-bug,” (or pea-curculio) plum-curculio, etc.; others pierce the
stems of plants and twigs of trees with an apparatus nature has fur-
nished them for this purpose, as the seventeen-year-locusts, tree-hop-
pers, &c.; others, as a large number of moths, select the grass as a
place to deposit them ; the female grasshopper bores into the ground
and deposits her eggs there in a sack, while the female cockroach car-
ries her sack of eggs with her; the lace-winged fly mounts her eggs
on the end of a short thread of gum which is attached to a leaf amid
the plant-lice on which she expects the young larve to feed. Ich-
neumon flies are provided with long Ovipositors with which they
pierce the bodies of the caterpillars and other larve and deposit
their eggs within; many minute chalcis-flies pierce and deposit
their eggs in the eggs of other insects ; the mosquito sends her eggs
ina little boat on the surface of the water; the bot-fly deposits them
on the leg of the horsé that they mav be carried into the stomach,
their nocturnal hatching place ; in fact there is no place where ani-
mal or vegetable life exists which is not used for a harbor for the eggs

75

hatched in afew days after they are deposited, while many remain
during the winter, thus enabling the species to endure the rigors of a
climate which otherwise would destroy them.

As soon as hatched they enter the larva state, in which they do
most of their eating and all their growing ; in fact the whole object of
this stage of their life so far as they are concerned, is to eat and grow;
the great work of the perfect state being that of reproduction. It is
during the larva state that they prove most injurious; the army
worm, hessian fly, apple and peach borers, codling moth’ and a host
of others commit all their depredations during this portion of their
existence. Most of the species of Lepidoptera are more or less injuri-
ous to vegetation, but all their injurious work is done while larvae, as
in the perfect state the long flexible mouth is incapable of inflicting
any injury on plants.

Larvae areall wingless, and pass most of their time eating, growing
rapidly and.frequently casting their skins, which process is called
moulting. This stage is generally much the longest portion of insect
life, some remaining init for two, three, and even five years, as the “|
grubs of some beetles; one species of cicada, the seventeen-year *
locust, remains hid in the earth as a larva for seventeen years
others pass through this stage in a few days or a few weeks at most, ~
as is the case with a large portion of the leaf-eating species.

The forms of the larve are very different in the different orders,
as will be seen when we come to examine more particularly the char-
acters of these orders. Some, as in most beetles, being grubs, some-
times with six small legs on the first three segments of the body,
while others are entirely footless. Others, asthe larvae of most lep-
idoptera, are true caterpillars possessing from ten to sixteen legs, and
usually a very prominent head; others are headless, resembling mi-
nute earth-worms, while others are furnished with a prolongation like
a rat-tail ; some, as in most species, which do not undergo a complete
transformation, are similar in appearance to the perfect insects which
they produce. These illustrations will suffice to show the great dif-
ference between insects in this stage of their existence, yet as they
are constantly feeding and growing, it is not easy to fix upon any
characters which are permanent, and by which the various species
may be distinguished from each other; yet there are certain perma-
nent differences which enable us to determine the group of insects to
whice they belong, and which, combined with a knowledge of habits,
often enable us to name the species to which a given larva belongs.

Many larvae, especially caterpillars, are furnished with false legs to
which the term pro-legs has been applied; these are short thick, fleshy
legs, not jointed or furnished with claws, as are the true legs, but a
broad, circular foot, surrounded by a fringe of minute hooklets. The
true legs are thuse situated on the three front segments, two on each
segment, and are usually furnished with a single claw; the false or
pro-legs are situated, two and two, on one or more of the other seg-
ments ; those on the last ring or segment are usually called the anal
legs; those on the intermediate segments are thesabdominal legs.

Although, as has been stated, insects, as a general and almost uni-
versal rule, deposit their eggs before they are hatched, yet there are

of some insect, whether out of the water or in it. Some eggs are

76 4

a few exceptions. Several dipterous species bring forth their young
alive, and the Hippoboscidae, a very singular family of dipterous in-
sects, do not cast their young until they have advanced to the pupal
state. The plant lice, which belong to the homopterous division of
the Hemiptera, present a very singular anomaly in their method of
reproduction.

The female perfect insect, having deposited her eggs in the fall,
dies; in the spring these eggs hatch, producing only unsexual (or im-
perfect female) individuals, which, arriving at the perfect, or appa-
rently perfect, state, produce living young (larvae) of a similar char-
acter, these in turn produce another similar brood, and so on for six
or seven generations ; but the last fall brood is composed of both males
and females; these females deposit eggs for the next spring brood.

The descriptions of species given in this report, as is usually the
case with entomological works, apply almost exclusively to the per-
fect insects, but the readers for whom our State reports are especially
intended, as a rule first discover injurious species when in the larva
state, and are desirous of ascertaining at once what they are, at least
with sufficient accuracy to have a general knowledge of their habits
and of the remedies recommended. Taking up an entomological re-
port or work they know not where to begin or how to ascertain
whether their insect is described or not. In order to aid in this mat-
ter, I wiil give some general directions, it being, as I have already in-
timated, impossible to give more than general directions by charac-
ters of the larvae alone, but as a general rule if we can trace them to
the family to which they belong we can form a tolerably correct idea
of their habits, and if we can do this, a little search through the de-
scriptions of the species of the family may enable us to find it if men-
tioned in the work we are examining.

The reader should understand that the directions given here apply
only to the larve of insects found injurious to vegetation in Illinois,
and which are mentioned in this report, or are closely allied to some
species herein described. :

First—Larve, which are similar to the perfect insect, and which do
not cease to eat when they arrive at the pupa state. These, as we
have seen, belong to the orders of Orthoptera and Hemuwptera, as these
are the only orders which have active pupe (the exceptions found in
Newroptera need not be considered here). If belonging to the former
order, and injurious or troublesome to an extent worthy of attention,
they must be cockroaches, crickets, or grasshoppers, and may be recog-
nized by their biting jaws and resemblance to these insects in the
perfect state. If they are Hemipterous they may be known by the
horny jointed bill which is turned under the breast when at rest, and
with which they pierce the bark, leaves and tender portions of the
plants; this fact will show at once which order they belong to, and
their general resemblance to the perfect insect they make will assist
in determining the family.

In the second place, we may take it for granted that alarva which isa
grub, caterpillar, maggot, or slug, or that can be considered worm-like,
whether with a head or without, with feet or without them, long or
short, thick or thin, smooth, covered’ with hairs or spined, flat or
round, cannot belong either to the Orthoptera or Hemiptera. If it is in-

77

jurious to vegetation—and that is the only kind we are now consider-
ing—we may exclude the Newroptera (dragon flies, lace-winged flies,
&c.), as there are no injurious species of this order found in this State,
at least in numbers Sufficient to excite attention.

This leaves but four orders’ to be considered, the Coleoptera, Hymenop-
tera, Mepidoptera, and Diptera, which is still a very broad field over
which to range in search of a single species.

If our supposed larva has no feet, it belongs either to the Diptera,
Hymenoptera, or Coleoptera. If it belongs to the Duptera, it will be a
small maggot, probably infesting the wheat, as the larva of the Hes-
sian fly, injuring the onion, as the onion maggot, or the larva of some
gall or fruit fly belonging to the family Ortalidx ; the number of in-
jurious species belonging to this order being comparatively small and
all footless maggots. If it belongs to the Hymenoptera, it will be a
small maggot, in all probability inhabiting a gall, on the leaf, stem
or twig of a plant. If a OColeopterous insect, it will probably be the
larva of some wood-borer belonging to either the Buprestridx, Ceramby-
cidz, or Scolytidx, or the larva of some species of the great Curculio
family.

If it should have feet, then it cannot belong to Diptera, or to any of
the families of Hymenoptera, exeept Tenthredinide (saw flies) or. Urocer-
idx (horn-tails), nor can it belong to the fomilies Curculionide or Scoly-
tide of the order Coleoptera. Therefore we may safely presume that it
belongs to the Lepidoptera, or to one of the two families of Hymenoptera
just mentioned, or that it is a Coleopterous species. If it belongs to
Hymenoptera, it will have twelve or more pro-legs, in addition to the
six true legs; if it belongs to Lepidoptera, it will have from four to ten
pro-legs and six true legs.

Thus we may be enabled to determine the order to which it belongs,
if we have first ascertained positively that it is injurious to vegeta-
tion; then turning to the description of the families of the orders
which contain the injurious species, we may be enabled to determine
with reasonable certainty the family in which it belongs. By know-
ing the particular plant it injures, the part of the plant it works on
or in, and its size, we may at length ascertain the species or particu-
lar group to which it belongs.

A short explanation in regard to the terms used in describing species
is necessary, but the reader is referred to the Glossary, which is found
at the commencement of this report, and also to Dr. Le Baron’s fourth
report, where much is given that I will not repeat here, as that re-
port is presumed to be in the hands of most of those who feel inter-
ested in the subject of entomology.

The appendages and parts of the head have received certain names
which are used in describing insects, as ordinary language does not
afford terms sufficiently definite. Those desiring to understand these
descriptions should familiarize themselves with these terms.

The Antinnae are two, jointed, thread-like appendages which arise
from the head, one from each side, and are often called horns. There
are different forms, some being much elongated and composed of many
joints, as in the katy-dids; others are quite short and composed of
two joints, as in the true bugs; others, as in most beetles, are of
medium length, etc.

78

The true eyes are called Oculi (singular Oculus), and are placed on
the side of the head. These are composed of numerous cells, which
can only be seen by a magnifier, and are hence called compound eyes.
Some species, as in many Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, and
Hemiptera, have two or three small eyes Ocelli, singular Ocellus), which
are usually placed on the head between the true eyes, sometimes below
or in front of them.

The Labrum is the upper lip; the Mandzbles are the upper or outer
jaws and are of a horny texture. The Mazillae are the lower or inner
jaws, and are softer and more pliable than the mandibles. Attached
to the mouth are short, jointed appendages, resembling small anten-
nae; these are the Palpi, (singular Palpus). There is sometimes a
small, distinct piece just above the upper lip, next the face, called the
Clypeus.

The thorax, or middle division of the body, which bears the wings
and legs, is divided into three regions corresponding with the three
segments of the larva which are coalesced to form it. The first or
front portion is the Prothoraz, and is the part which is usually termed
the thorax in describing Coleoptera. The upper portion, as in the
grasshoppers, is the Pronotum, the underside the Prosternwm—this part
bears the first pair of legs. The middle portion (Mesothoraz) bears the
second or middle pair of legs and the first or upper wings. The third
or posterior portion (Metathorax) bears the third or hind pair of legs
and the second or lower wings. The upper wings, when used as covers
for the lower wings, and not asorgans of flight, as in the Coleoptera,
Orthoptera, and many of the Hemiptera, are called Elytra (singular
Enlytro). The term wings is usually applied to the lower or true
wings in these orders, sometimes to the tivo pairs taken together, but
never to the Elytra alone without some qualifying word. In the other
orders, where both pairs are of a similar form and texture, all receive
the name “wings.”-

The different parts of the legs have received distinct names. Thus,
the short piece by which they are attached to the body, is the Coza ;
the next, which is usually elongated and generally the largest piece,
is the thigh or Femur, the next or shank isthe T%bia, and lastly the
foot or Zarsus is composed of a number of minute joints, the last gen-
ally terminating with two claws. Sometimes there exists between
the Coxae and Femur a small piece called Trochanter.

Many of the Coleoptera have a small triangular piece between the
elytra at the base, which is called the Scuttlelum. This is also met
with in other orders, but varying according to the nature of the
species.

The abdomen, or posterior division of the body, is composed of a num-
ber of rings, called segments, and is without legs or wings.

The apex or tip, which is the hinder extremity, is sometimes fur-
nished with two, more or less, elongated appendages, which have re-
ceived various names, as cerci, setae, etc. The females in many species,
as some of the hymenoptera, some orthopteria, etc., have a more or
less elongated appendage at the tip of the abdomen, which is called
the ovipositor, or egg-layer, with which they penetrate the bodies of
other insects, the bark of trees and plants, the ground and other sub-
stances, for the purpose of depositing their eggs.

79

The joints of the antennae are always numbered from the head to-
ward the tips, the segments of the abdomen from the base or part
next the thorax toward the posterior extremity; the joints of the
tarsus from the one connected with the tibia toward the tip.

Other terms which belong exclusively to certain orders, will be ex-
plained so far ag necessary to understand the description in the report
when we reach those orders in our arrangement.

In order to have uniformity as far as possible in naming these va-
rious divisions and sub-divisions of the class, and to know the nature
or rank of the division by its name alone, the following terminations
have been given these names:

To the orders—prERa, as coleo-ptera, di-ptera, etc.

To the families—1pAk, as buprest-idae, ichneumoni-dae, ete.
To the sub-families—1Nak, as cerambyc-inae, balan-inae, etc.
To the groups—1nI, as cerambyc-ini, ete.

In giving the name of the species as heretofore stated, we use both
the name of the genus and that of the species, the generic names
standing first, and commencing with a capital letter. The specific
name should never commence with a capital unless derived from a
proper name, and I think it would be well to dispense with it even
in these cases. The abbreyiationor name which follows (in Reman
letters) the name of a species, indicates the author of the specific
name, as oedipoda Carolina, Linn., where the abbreviation Linn. indi-
cates that Linnaeus, the celebrated Swedish naturalist was the au-
thor of the specific name Carolina.

COLEOPTERA.

This order, which includes the beetles only, is one of the most ex-
tensive of the entire class, and contains a very large unmber of injur-
ious species. The species belonging to it are easily distinguished, in
the perfect state, from all other insects, by hard horny and usually
smooth wing-cases, which, when closed, meet in a straight line along
the back and conceal the true wings. The term Elytra (singular
Elytron) is usually applied to these cases to distinguish them from the
“Wings,” or true wings. The latter are thin and membranous and
mostly transparent, and when at rest are twice folded, once lengthwise
and once crosswise, so as to conceal them beneath the elytra or wing-
cases. In a few instances the under or true wings are wanting, but
the wing-cases are present in-all the perfect insects, except one or two
species. All the species of this order undergo a complete transforma-
tion. The larve are usually soft whitish grubs, naked or covered
with a few scattering hairs; the mouth is furnished with strong
horny biting jaws, opening sidewise, similar to those of the perfect
insect.; they are generally furnished with six short true feet, situated
on the first three segments behind the head; there is often a terminal
or anal pro-leg (this I omit in the arrangement by larval characters) ;
a large number are wholly footless. They are found in almost every
situation where vegetable or animal substances exist upon which
they can feed; but they are most generally found in concealed posi-
tions, comparatively few exposing themselves to the light of day, as
do many of the Lepidopterous larve.

80

The pupz are completely inactive, being wrapped in their hard
outer skin like a mummy in its bandages, and as a matter of course
cease eating until they come forth perfect beetles. They are rarely
enclosed in cocoons, but generally the larve, residing in the earth
or rotten wood, form cells by turning round and round, in which they
pass the pups state. A few species belonging to .the families Curcy-
lionidz and Chrysomelide construct distinct cocoons of web, which
they attach to the plants on which they feed. The legs are always
free, not being enclosed in the pups envelope. I may add here, as a
matter of interest to the reader, that this order probably contains
more species than any other, the number amounting to nearly one-
third of the whole class. Mr. Crotch’s check-list of those found in the
United States contains 7,450 ; fully one-seventh of this number have
already been found in Illinois,

This will give the reader some idea of the immense varieties of
insect forms there are to be found in our country, and of the time and
labor necessary to examine, determine and describe them, and trace
them through their various transformations and history. It should
also lead us to proper contemplation of that Infinite Wisdom which
has formed them and adapted each to its appropriate work.

Dr. LeBaron has given the arrangement and classification of the
divisions and families of this order so fully in his report, that it would
be wholly unnecessary for me to allude to it were it not for the fact
that this report, which, as heretofore stated, is intended asa “manual,”
will fall into the hands of many who have not a copy of the former.
I shall therefore present very briefly the arrangement, so far as it
relates to the families containing injurious species herein mentioned,
and the two or three families which include our most important and -
beneficial rapacious species. \ :

The joints of the tarsi or feet furnish the most prominent charac-
ters for dividing the order into primary sections or divisions, without
separating allied species or groups; in other words, according to a
natural arrangement.

Arranging them according to the number of joints in the tarsi, we
have four primary divisions, as follows: -

Ist Section. Pentamera. Five joints in all the tarsi.

2p Section. Heteromera. Anterior and middle tarsi, five jointed;
posterior tarsi, four jointed.

3D SEcTIoN. Tetramera. Four joints in all the tarsi.

4tH Section. Trimera. Three joints in all the tarsi.

There are a few unimportant exceptions to this arrangement, but
not sufficient to affect its value. The families of this order mentioned
in the list given in our introduction are arranged under these divis-
ions, as follows:

SEcrion 1. Cicindelidae, Carabidae, Dyticidae, Gyrinidae, Silphidae, Hts-
teridae, Nitidulidae, Staphylindae, LInucanidae, Copridae, Apaodidae, Geotru- -
pidae, Trogidae, Dynastidae, Metolouthidae, Cetonudae, Buprestidae, Elateri-
dae, Ptinidae, Lymexilonidae, Cupesidae, Lamppridae, and Cleridae.

Section 2. Contains but a few, and mostly small families, among
which may be mentioned Meélordae and Tenebrionidae as the most im-
portant.

$1

_ Sxcrron 3. Bruchidae, Curculionidae, Scolytidae, Cerambycidae, and
_ Chrysomelidae.

Section 4. Coccinellidae, and some small fungus-beetles.

From this exhibit it is apparent that the first section contains the
larger portion of the species, or at least the greatest variety of differ-
ent groups.

In order therefore to lessen the labor of searching out this exten-
Sive section, a single species, it has been further divided into various
groups.

I follow here the arrangement given by Dr. Le Baron, who separates
it first into sub-sections, chiefly by the form of the antenne; these
he again divides into tribes corresponding to their habits; each tribe
contains one or more families.

Sup-secTion I. Contains those pentamerous species with slender fili-
form antenne.

Tribe 1. Embraces the predaceous ground-beetles, and includes the
families Cicindelidae and Carabidae. The former contains the tiger-
beetles, which are mostly of metalic colors, with large vertical heads,
and are seen flying along the road in the bright sunshine. The latter
are mostly black or somber colored beetles, with the head medium
size and directed forward. They usually remain hid under logs,
boards, etc., during the day, and come forth at night. This family
contains many of our most useful insect allies.

Tribe 2—Contains the predaceous water beetles, Dyticidae andGyrin-
idae. The former reside in the water; the latter on the surface.

Sup-secTion II. Contains those species which have the antenne
enlarged at the tip, but not lamellated or pectinate. ;

Tribe 3.—The water scavenger beetles, of which Hydrophilidaeis the
principal family.

Tribe 4—Land scavenger beetles. This tribe contains several fam-
ilies, of which I need only mention the following. Silphidae, or sexton
beetles, which are usually of large size and feed upon decayed animal
matter. Hesteridae, small, rather flat and somewhat. square-shaped in-
sects of a very hard consistency, living in animal excrement and
other decaying substances. Nitidulidae, small beetles, somewhat sim-
ilar in appearance to those of the last named family, some of which
live in carrion, others on flowers, while a few species are injurious to.
fruits, the perfect insects eating into them. Dermestidae, or Skin-
beetles, mostly small species, often destructive to skins, furs, and
other dried animal substances, some species infesting museums, while
others feed on lard, bacon, etc. This tribe contains, in addition to
these, a number of other small families, whose species are either pre-
daceous, or live in fungus, rotten wood, or about the roots of moss.

Sun-section III—This contains but one family of importance
Staphylinidx, which is distinguished by the more or less moniliform
autennae, and the very short elytva or wing vases, which cover but.
a portion of the abdomen. It contains the short-winged scavenger
beetles, usually of minute size, and feeding upon decaying animal
and vegetable matter.

E—6

82

Sup-sectTion [VY. This sub-divisioh is limited to those pentamerous
species with pectinate (comb-like) antenne, and contains the simple
family Lucanide or stag-beetles.

Sup-section V. This contains the species with lamellate anten-
nae, that is those which haveantennae terminating with a club com-
posed of flat pieces or plates which open similar to the leaves in a
book. It includes several important families, as now constituted,
though formerly the entire sub-section was embraced in a single fan
ily.

Tribe 7. The lamellicorn dung-beetles. The families belonging
to this tribe are as follows: Copridac, which contains the pill-roilers
or “tumble-bugs ;” Ahodiidae, containing small species which reside in
similar situations, being found in abundance in fresh manure ; Geotru-
pidae, usually of medium size, with habits similar to the species of
the preceding family; 7'r ogidae, the seare from medium to small size,
with rough thorax and elytra, the former being pitted and the latter
ridged, often of a dull, dirt color ; found about decaying animal mat-
ter.

Tribe 8. The leaf-chafers or leaf-eating lamellicorn beetles. This
tribe contains several families, many of the species belonging thereto
being injurious in the larva or perfect state, or in both. Dynastidae,
to which belongs our largest beetle; Melolanthidae, the May-beetles ;
injurious to the foliage of trees in the beetle or perfect state. The
larvae, which are known as “white-grubs,” are injurious to grass
routs and the tender roots of other plants; Rutelidae, the vine leaf-chaf-
ers ; Cetoniidae, this family contains those splendid beetles known in
many places as “June-bugs.”

Sus-sectTion VI. Thespecies of this sub-section are usually fur-
nished with serrate antennae, but this character is scarcely apparent
in many.

Tribe 9. The saw-horned wood-beetles. This tribe contains two
families too well known on account of the injuries which some of
their species inflict on our horticulturalists and agriculturalists.
Buprestidae, the buprestians, whose larvae are usually designated as
hammer-headed wood-borers; Elateridae, the jumping-jacks or snap-
ping beetles, whose larvae are known as wire-worms.

Tribe 10. Contains chiefly small species, some of which are injuri-
ous by boring into living plants, furniture, &c. Ptinidae, the princi-
pal family, includes a number of small wood-borers, also some species
which do much injury to museums and natural history collections.

Tribe 11. The soft-winged predaceous beetles, so called because the
elytra are flexible and somewhat leathery. Lampyridae includes our
well known fire-flies or lightning-bugs; Gleridae contains one species
injurious to bacon, and one or two which destroy the larvae of bees.

The second or Heteromerous section of the order contains a num-
ber of families, most of which are predaceous, parasitic, or innoxious ;
those which are not predaceous or parasitic, live on decaying vege-
table substances, or on fungus or other unimportant vegetation.
Omitting the tribe divisions, { shall mention only two families.

CO

83

Meloidae. Containing the well known Cantharides or blister-beetles,
including the well known destructive ash-colored, black and striped
potato-beetle.

Tenebrionidae, or darkling-beetles, including the “meat-worm,” and
a few other injurious species which inhabit houses and graineries.

The third or Tetramerous section is pre-eminently the injurious
division of the order, for it not only includes the immense weevil or
curculio family, but also the true wood-borers and the true plant-
beetles. The section is divided into four tribes, each, except the first,
containing but a single family, and therefore unnecessary to be consid-
ered distinct divisions here.

Bruchidae. This small family contains the pea-weevil and its con-
genors.

Curculionidae, the snout-beetles or Curculios. This immense family,
which is distinguished chiefly by the front of the head being prolonged
into a snout, is conveniently divided into two chief sections, thus:

Section 1. JBrevirostres or short-snouts. This section, although it
includes severai sub-families, contains no notedly injurious species.

Section 2. Longirostres or long-snouts. This section is very ex-
tensive, and contains nearly all the injurious curculios or snout-
weevils. As examples, we may mention the plum curculio (Conotrache-
lus nenuphar); the long-snout nut-weevil (Balaninus nasicus); the ap-
ple-carculio (Anthonomus 4-gibbus) ; the strawberry crown-borer (Analcis
Tragariae), etc. y

Scoiytidae or short-horned wood-borers. Includes a number of very
small wood boring beetles, of which the hickory bark miner is an ex-
ample.

Cerambycidae. Includes the long-horned wood-borers, and is one of
the most extensive families of the order. It has been divided into
several sub-families, the fqallowing being represented in Illinois :

Subp-FAMILY 1. Prioninae. The large brown, somewhet flattened,
long-horned beetles ; the large grape-root borer is the larva of a species
of this sub-family.

SuB-FAMILY 2. Cerambycinae. The true long-horned wood-borers,

with the head horizontal or but slightly inclined; twig-borer (Hlaphid-
ion parallelum) ; the locust-borer (Clyfus robinice), and sugar-maple borer
(Clytus speciosus) are familiar examples.
_ Sus-ramity 3. Lepturinae. This division includes those species
which have the head horizontal, or nearly so, and the elytra tapering
backwards. We have no noted injurious species belonging to this
division.

Sup-FAMILY 4. Lamiinae. The true Jong-horned wood-borers, with
the head vertical. Examples: the round-headed apple borer, (Saperda
canida), the twig girdler (Oncideres cingulatus,) ete.

Chrysomelidae. True plant beetles. This extensive family includes
all those species similar in habits and characters to the Colorado
potato beetle (Doryphora 10-lineata); the striped cucumber beetle
(Diabrotica vittata); the cabbage and grape-vine flea beetles (Haltica);
the sweet potato beetle (Cassda), etc. As this family is very large,
it has been subdivided into a number of sub families.

84

The fourth, or Trimerous section contains but few families, of which
it is only necessary for us to name but one:

Coccinnellidae, the lady-birds, or plant-louse beetles.

In order to aid the reader as far as possible in his efforts to deter-
mine species from larval characters, I present the following remarks
in reference to the larvae of families containing injurious species:

The larvae of the leaf-chafers, and stag-beetles (Lucanidae, Melolonthi-
dae, Rutelidae and Cetoniidae) are thick, fleshy grubs, with a distinct head,
which is usually dark or brown, with strong jaws. Asa general rule
they are more or less enlarged toward the hinder extremity, the last
segment usually the largest; the back is generally wrinkled transversely.
They have but six feet, situated on the first three segments behind
the head; are generally more or less curved or bent, and lie upon one
side, in which position they feed. As a matter of course, they and
all other larvae vary according to the size of the species and
the age at which they are observed. Some, as those of the stag
beetles, are found in rotten or decayed wood, and are seldom injurious;
others, as those of the May-beetles, June-bugs, vine-chafers, etc., reside
in the ground, living upon the roots of grasses and other plants, some-
times doing immense injury to meadows.

The common “white grub” isan example of this group.

Here I must warn the reader against making a mistake in suppos-
ing that no other larvae except these have this form. These char-
acters are mentioned simply to inform him that when he finds a
larva of this kind feeding upon the roots of grass, shrubs, straw-
berries, ete., in all probability it belongs to this group, and thus assist
him in his search for the species.

The larvae of the Saw-horned wood-beetles (Buprestidae) are some-
times called hammer-headed larvae, from the great development of
the first segment.

The whole body is usually slightly flattened, especially the segment
immediately behind the head, whichis much expanded laterally,
sometimes to twice the width of the head and of the posterior seg-
ments; the latter being more rounded than the first and nearly equal
in size. They are footless grubs, and are found boring into timber,
often doing much injury to fruit and other trees. The flat-headed
borer of the apple tree (Ohrysobothrus femoratus) is a familiar ex-
am ple.

There are other wood-boring larvae, which somewhat closely re-
semble the Buprestian larvae. These belong chiefly to the Laminae,
a sub-family of the Gerambycidae, or long-horned wood-borers. They
are rather more cylindrical than the Buprestians, and they are gener-
ally nearly of a cylindrical form. The round-headed apple-borer
Saperda candida or bivittata is an example of this sub-family.

The larva of the other long-horned wood-borers, at least those of the
sub-families Prioninae and Verambycinae are similar in form, but have
six minute legs on the first three segments. Belonging to the latter
is the locust-borer (Ctytus robiuiae). In all these wood-borers the head
is smaller than the first segment.

The larvae of the Elaters, Snap-jacks or Snapping-beetles, are
elongate, cylindrieal worms, generally quite slender, with the divi-
sions between the segments not strongly marked; six small legs on

85

the first three segments, usually brownish or marked with brown.
Some of the larger ones are found in rotten logs and stumps, but the
larger portion, including those which are injurious, reside in the
earth, eating the small roots of plants, especially of the grasses, also
of wheat and other cereals. They are generally known as “Wire-
worms and belong to the family Kalteriuae.

There are certain very small larvae found sometimes boring into
wood, especially the hickory, in hickory and oak furniture, etc., while
others are found boring into books, in stale bread, injuring museums
of natural history, etc., which are true grubs in form, resembling the
grubs of the leaf-chafers, except that they are not enlarged posteriorly.
They are curved and have six feet, two on each of the first three seg-
ments. These larvae belong to the family Ptinidae.

There is a large group of beetles generally known as weevils,
whose larvae almost always inhabit plants, and especially the fruit
in some of its various forms of seeds, nuts and pulpy fruits, often
doing much injury to the horticulturalist.

These are soft, white, footless grubs of small size. A few, as the
pea-weevil and grain-weevil, belong to the family Bruchidae, but much
the larger portion to Curculionidae, or true snout-weevils. Some of the
latter gnaw galleries under the bark of trees, especially the pine,
some form galls on the stems and leaves of plants; but the greater
portion live in the seeds, nuts and fruits of plants.

Among the latter we may mention as examples the plum curculio,
(Conotrachelus nenuphar), the apple curculio, (authonomus 4-gibbus), the
nut or acorn weevils, (Balaninides); the strawberry crown borer, ( Anal-
cis fragariae), kc. All of these larvae are very small.

There are certain wood-boring larvae which resemble the former
very closely, and except by their habits are very difficult to distin-
- guish from them, as they are also white, footless grubs of very small
size. The absence of feet will distinguish them from the Pt/nidae be-
fore mentioned. They belong to the Scolytidae, a familiar example
being the hickory bark miner, (scolytus 4-spinosus,) which forms the
numerous furrows so frequently found on the inside of hickory bark.

The leaf-eating beetles form another very extensive group, which,
as Dr. LeBaron has done, may be included in one family—(chrysomeli-
dae). The larvae are generally short, thick, fleshy, convex or hump-
back grubs, usually found lying upon the surface of the leaves on
which they feed. They have six true legs on the first three segments
and usually a terminal pro-leg. They are often brightly colored. As
awe we may mention the Colorado and three-lined potato-

eetles.

There are certain, small, flat, oval-shaped, singular looking larvae,
frequently found feeding on sweet-potato and other convolyulous
plants, sometimes in company with brilliant, gold-colored, turtle-
shaped small beetles. These, which may be known by the prickles
along the sides, belong to the family cassidae.

The larvae of the lady-bugs somewhat: resemble these, but may
usually be distinguished by having spines barbed and placed upon
the upper portion of the body as well-as the sides. These, which are
often mistaken for enemies, especially when found collected in mass-
es, as they are sometimes on the twigs of cultivated pines, should be

86

left undisturbed, as they are one of our most efficient aids in destroy-
ing plant-lice.

A SYNOPTICAL TABLE OF THE FAMILIES OF COLEOPTERA CONTAINING
INJURIOUS SPECIES.

A. Fine joints in all the tarsi.

a, Antenne slender and filiform, usually finely serrate, sometimes with the terminal] joints ser-
rate ; never clubbed, lamellate or pectinate.

b. Prosternum prolonged to a point behind which is received in the meso-sternum ; body firm
and tapering behind; legs short and slender.

e. Prosternal point immovable ; antenne finely serrate; anteriorand middle legs with trochanters ;
COLON FAMCLALIOS Ae cctescetoncrsroveocneccesnaassceuesteantetes my ccbacsaseasencoctenerter gumbectesiend oe BUPRESTID#.

ec. Prosternal point movable ; antennz finely serrate or simply filiform; legs without trochant-
ers; colors generally brown or black ; the surface usually finely pubescent.

ELATERID#.

bb. Prosternum not prolonged behind ; legs more or less elongated ; body moderately firm ; anten-

ne filiform, or the three outer joints elongated, or serrate; body not tapering posteriorly,

UZ OUSIO WE aie caisinsltecvsescohsneestosercctetacer curnetb en nas sbarsescucsueateal Uiausastonc-uyaneectentscoene esos PTINID A,
aa. Antenne enlarged at the extremity, either pectinate, lamellate or clavate; never filiform
throughout. :
d. Club of the antenne pectinate; mandibles large, usually strongly toothed or even branched ;
RIZGS AEC TON MEGCIIUIN Ccescccescoterask cas seccceeeee cashier ep ceeee Cone see een LUCANID2.
dd. Club of Be antennz lamellate; tip of the abdomen exposed, size various, but never very
small.

e. Claws of the tarsi split or divided; color usually uniformly brown, sometimes covered with
whitish hairs or scales ; rows of abdominal spiracles nearly parallel... MELOLONTHID#

ee. Claws of the tarsi not split or divided; rows of abdominal spiracles strongly divergent poster-
iorly, colors usually bright, and often variegated.

f. Tarsal claws unequal, one being stouter than the other on the same foot; anterior cox trans”

verse, and usually depressed ; back! COMVERX..:......:..aceccsecstercccecescunecncsonetheetaeseee RUTELIDA.
ff. Tarsal claws equal ; anterior coxee prominent and conical; back more or less flattened, not
BST IY COMVER sw cas be coca vue Sas eas saedceais sncaadbocsuesevesaconee nee Er weee Dane epee angsnteee CETONIIDA,

ddd. Antenne clavate or clubbed at the top, but never pectinate or lamellate ; size smail.
g. Body much depressed ; antennze terminating with an ovate club formed of the last three joints;

AN Or He AbGOM en“ CXPOSCU rs, é.5.<avcescon cuccuvsecshucac veces veatewenournsenevene eae cette NITIDULID&.
gg. Body more or less convex ; antennie Clavate; elytra covering the whole abdomen; head in-
BELteidm tHe THOLAR, coc, seek ose gecdoseads nwa dopepaess ce tuscan teen seacerees Coseeheee ceeeeer nee DERMESTIDA.

AA. Anterior and middle tarsi five jointed, posterior tarsi four jointed.

h. Head as wide as the thorax, and attached to it by aneck; antenne filiform; tarsal claws deep-
ly clett:; body rather soit and ‘elytra. flexible eic.isc.cssacccsssesnscesesscuadessscacncnearenen MELOIDA.

hh. Head narrower than the thorax, and usually partly inserted in it; body firm and elytra
ridged ; antennz gradually enlarged toward the tip, with the joints more or less bead-
like, or moniliform color Dlack or dark DrOWN............0...ccescccees eee ceceee sesees TENEBRIONIDE.

AAA. All the tarsi four jointed.
i. Head more or less prolonged into a snout.
j. Labrum and palpi present and distinct; antennw serrate and somewhat enlarged toward the

tip; snout quite short. and thick ; eyes MOtCHE................5..cenese sesovscevccsencenseee BRUCHID&.
jj. Labrum and palpi obsolete; antenne clubbed at the top, and usually elbowed ; snout distinct
ANG M Ore OMlessiel OLAS wisi lee wcckwencd dace dco alaencs Saba caeteose racbucnbaets cok wenupuonces CURCULIONID&.

ii. Head not prolonged into a snout.

k. Antenne clubbed at the top; body short, thick, and nearly cylindrical; thorax (prothorax)
very large as compared with the rest of the body ; head deeply inserted in ne theorax.
COLYTID.

kk. Antenne filiform or setaceous, or slightly enlarged toward the top; tarsi always dilated and
brush-like beneath, with the next to the last joint usually bilobed.

1, Form elongated ; antenne long, often very long, and usually setaceous or lessening toward the
top; size and colors various; larvz usuallly wood, stem or twig-borers...CERAMBYCIDA.

Nl. Form short and more or less oval, antennz filiform or slightly thickened toward the tip, and
short or of but moderate length ; size generally small; colors various, larvee herbivorous,
feeding chiefly on the leaves of vegetables and herbs...............:cceeeeseeeees CHRYSOMELID 2.

As this table is intended to include only the injurious species of
Joleoptera found in Illinois the characters of the families are limited
so as to include the injurious species only and not so as to embrace
all species belonging to those families which contain chiefly parasitic
or non injurious species.

<<) Se

87
SECTION I—PENTAMERA.

The species of this section, with few exceptions, have five joints
in all the tarsi; in some very small species some are wanting. This
is the most numerous section of the order and contains, as a general
rule, the largest species. The section may be divided into six sub-
sections by the form of the antennae and the food habits. I give
these briefly after Dr. LeBaron’s arrangement, mentioning under each
only the families containing the injurious and few beneficial species
mentioned herein.

Sub-section 1. Filicornes. Antennae filliform. Habits predaceous.
Contains the tiger-beetles, predaceous ground-beetles, Civindelidae and
Carabiade, and predaceous water-beetles.

Sub-section 2. (lavicornes. Antennae clavate or club-shaped.
Living chiefly upon putrid or decayed vegetable or animal matter.
Families NITULIDA, DERMESTID®.

Sub-section 3. Monilicornes. Antennee more or less moniliform or
bead-like ; wing covers very short. Living chiefly upon decaying
matter. The short-winged scavenger beetles.

Sub-section 4. Pecticornes. Antennae pectinate or with a comb-
toothed expansion of the outer portion. The stag: beetles.

Family Lucanip@.

Sub-section 5. Lamellicornes. Antenne lamellate; that is, with a
club at the tip, composed of plates which open like the leaves of a
book. Somefeed upon animal excrement, others upon the leaves and
roots of planis.

Families DYNASTID#, RUTELID, MELOLONTHID.E AND CENTONIID®.

Sub-section 6 Serricornes. Antennae usuaiiy more or less serrate
or saw-toothed, Sender. Some bore into wood and stems in the larva
state, while otheis are predaceous.

Families BUPRESTID®, ELATERID®, PTINIDA.

As will beseei from this tabular statement, sub-sections one and
three contain no injurious species, and that of forty-three families rep-
resented in I[llinosk only ten contain injurious species worthy of

~ notice.

A few of our mostimportant rapacious species are mentioned and
briefly described in oder to give the reader an idea of those which
should not be destroyrd.

CICINDELID.

Head large and vertial, wider than the thorax; antennae inserted
on the front, filiform; eyes large and prominent; mandibles strongly
toothed ; mouth havingapparently six palpi; elytra usually marked.
with yellow or white.

This family includes tiose active, ferocious beetles we frequently
see flying and alighting sefore us in the road or highway, when the
sun is hot; as weapprosh they again take flight and drop down a
few steps in advance, geierally with their heads turned toward us.
They have long legs and mn with great rapidity. The species found

88

in this state are of medium size, varying from one-third to three-
fourths of an inch in length ; rather gaily colored, generally olive
green or bronzed with yellowish or white spots or marks on the
elytra.

All the species of this family, both in the larva and perfect state,
are highly predaceous, subsisting wholly on other insects, and, as a
matter of course, are beneficial, and should not be destyoyed. The
larvae reside in the ground.

As example I mention the following:

Cicindela 6-guitata Fab. A bright polished green beetle with three
marginal white dots on each wing case, the two first nearly equal the
last, transverse and terminal ; length about halfan inch,

CG. vulgaris. Dull copper color, with three whitish bands on each
wing case, twoof which are curved, and the other snpddenly bent.
Length about three fifths of an inch.

CARABID.

The head not bent down vertically, as in the preceding family, but
extending forward horizontally or slightly inclined, usjally narrower
thanthe thorax, the antennae inserted under the sides of the front ;
eyes of moderate size; mandibles simple or slightly tcothed; mouth
having apparently six palpi. The colors usually blatk, sometimes
blue, green or brown, but seldom spotted. This family, which is
very numerous, contains the predaceous ground beetles, These vary
greatly in size, some being quite small, while others ar: large. Dur-
ing the day they usually remain hid under shocks of wheat and
corn, and logs, rails and rubbish, and when we turn over or remove
one of these shocks, etc., may be seen running rapidly away, pushing
into any opening they may find to escape from view, During warm
spring and summer nights, especially when the air ismoist, they fly
in at the windows, dropping on the floor, table, etc., a‘ound the light ;
and as soon as they alight they commence running rapidly hither and
yonder. The elytra are usually longitudinally striafed or grooved.

The larve are active grubs, generally elongated, Yaving sharp pro-
jecting mandibles; and are usually furnished at the hind extremity
with a pair of conical bristly appendages. :

With very few exceptions these insects are highly predaceous both
in the larva and perfect states; and on account Ca the large number
of individuals and species furnish most efficiem aid in keeping in
check the injurious species.

This family on account of its great extent his been divided into
several sub-families, the characters of which ire given by Dr. Le
Baron. |

The number of species which are known to iyhabit Illinois is about
two hundred, one hundred and sixty-four havitg been mentioned in
my catalogue published in the Fourth Repd¢t of the Illinois State
Agricultural Society, 1860, I shall only desc/ibe such as are known
to prey upon our most injurious insects.

CALOSOMA SCRUTATOR—Jabr.

The head is narrower than the thorax; tie thorax is transversely
oval, but is considerably narrower than fe elytra; the latter are
slightly widened toward the tip, which nih crace rounded so that

)
|

89

_ the posterior extremity of the insect forms a semi-circle. Antennae
slender filiform, and slightly covered with brown hairs toward the
tip. Head and thorax black with violet reflection; the thorax sur-
rounded by a golden margin; elytra bright green, with numerous
striae or minute longitudinal grooves. Under side of the body green ;
legs violaceous, long and rather slender; anterior tibiae, not notched.
Length from one inch to one inch and a fourth; width of elytra at
widest point about half the length, or slightly less; width of thorax,
scarcely one-fourth the length.

Known to feed upon the canker-worm (Anisopterijx vernata, Peck)8
and the tent-caterpillar of the forest (Glisiocampa sylvatica, Harr.)

C. caALIpuUM—F abr.

Head thorax and elytra similar in form to the preceding species,

jh except that the thorax is broader in propor- (is. 2.1
tion to the elytra, and the posterior lateral
angles extend slightly backward; the latter . fi
are scarcely widened posteriorly; anterior \aey
tibiz also notnotched. General color black;
elytra striate, each wing case being marked
with three longitudinal, parallel rows of
} impressed golden dots. Length varies from
@nine-tenths to about one inch and_ one-
eighth ; width of the elytra about or slightly
more than three-eighths of the length; width Coxosoma

of the thorax about one-third the length. fAnip0™"

COLOSOMA CALIDUM.

Known to prey upon upon the canker-worm, the Colorado potato-
beetle (Doryphora 10-lineata), and the May beetle (Phillophaga fusca—
Forst).

PASIMACHUS ELONGATUS—Lec.

Abdomen pedunculated, that is to say, there is a space between the
hind margin of the thorax and front margin of the elytra; anterior
tibize somewhat widened and flattened, toothed on the outer edge, and
the outer angle prolonged into a spine or long point; a notch on the
inner margin. Head very broad, transversely quadrate; thorax
broader than the elytra, somewhat heart-shaped, the angles promi-
nent, very large in proportion to the size of the body; first joint of
the antenne elongated, mandibles very prominent, strongly toothed.
surface a polished black, smooth ; elytra smooth, not striate, margin
blue; sternum (breast) striated at the tip. Length about an inch;
width of the thorax about three-eighths the length, head a little over
one-fourth, elytra a little under three-eighths.*

Known to prey upon the Colorado potato-beetle. @
ASPIDOGLOSSA SUBANGULATA—Chaud.

Abdomen pedunculate; rather slender in form; thorax nearly as
wide as the elytra but rounded behind; black. Antennae and palpi
reddish-brown; thorax black and not punctured, with a longitudinal

Note.—*The measurement of the width of a part is always made at the widest point, unless
otherwise expressly stated.

90

impressed line which connects with transverse angulated one; elytra
dark-brown or black; very distinctly striate or grooved, a Jarge indis-
tinct brownish spot at the base and another at the tips. Anterior
tibiae asin Pasimachus. Length three-tenths of an inch; width but
slightly more than one-fourth the length.

It is supposed that this species preys upon the plum cureculio (Con-
otrachelus nenuphar. )

HARPALUS CALIGINOSUS—Say.

Anterior tibiae, with a notch on the inside near the tip, with one
spur at the tip, with another above the notch, but without the ex-
ternal tooth. Thorax about as broad as the elytra sub-quadrate,
slightly narrowed in front, and depressed in the region of the hind
angles which are acute. Black except the antennae, palpi, tarsi and
anterior coxae which are brown. Head smooth ; elytra with distinct
striae which are smooth, that is without punctures.

Length about one inch; width nearly one-third the length.

Known to prey upon various cut-worms (species of Agrotis), and the
potato beetle.

H. PENNSYLVANICUS—Deg.

[Fig. 3.J

The general form, although much smaller,
is the same as that of the preceding species;
the form of the thorax and tibial characters
are as in that species. The general color
black, the under surface being deep piceous,
antennae, feet and palpi paler. The thorax
is smooth on the central portion, with a me-
dian longitudinal impressed line, the regions
of the posterior angles depressed and punc-
tured, these angles rounded. Elytra striate,
Hiaarpa Pexnsytyanicus. the striae or grooves being smooth, not punc-
tured, but there are punctures along the margin. Length about
three-fifths of an inch; width nearly one-third the length.

This is a very common species, often found under stones, logs, etc.,
and frequently enters the house at night when there isa light. Mr.
Walsh noticed a larva, which is supposed to be of this species, feed-
ing upon the larvae of the Plum Curculio.

LEBIA GRANDIS.—Hentz.

Size rather below medium; elytra truncate or cut off at the extrem-
ity, leaving the tip of the abdomen exposed; anterior tibiae, with
the notch on the inner edge; claws distinctly pectinate ; abdomen
somewhat peduneulated ; thorax rounded on the sides and wider than
long, the posterior margin straight, with the angles somewhat obtuse,
but not rounded, narrower than the elytra; elytra slightly widened
posteriorly, of a deep or dark blue color, distinctly striate and with-
out visible punctures. The thorax horny, yellow, smooth, with an
impressed longitudinal dorsal line. Head yellowish, but a little
carker than the thorax, the legs and breast also yellow. Length
about or slightly over two-fifths of an inch; width of elytra a little
less than half the length.

91

;
_ This pretty species is perhaps our most efficient co-worker in de-
-stroying the Colorado potato beetle.

Family NITIDULID®.

The species of this family are small, somewhat flattened beetles,
the thorax having a wide, thin margin, and the elytra are more or
less truncated or cut off, so as to expose the tip of the abdomen ; the
antennge are composed of ten or eleven joints, with the last three
joints enlarged and formed into a club or knob, the first joint is much
larger than the second or any of the intermediate joints.

They general subsist upon decaying animal and vegetable sub-
stances and some are carniverous, feeding upon the soft, minute larvae
found under the bark of decaying trees; one only is knowu to be in-
jurious in this State.

Ips 4 SIGNATUS.

(4 This little species, which is only about one-fifth of
( “} an inch long, may be known by its flattened body, its
«shining black color, which is varied by four yellow
(“—} spots on the wing cases, two on each, and the form of
the antennae, which have a knob or club at the
ww end. I have late:y received, through the agricul-

‘tural editor of the Inter-Ocean, a specimen from

Irs Facratus. Mr. J. E. Darby, Dexter, Iowa, who states that it has
been troubling his apples this season, principally the early varieties.
They puncture the skin and eat their way toward the center, some-
times dozens of them being found in a single apple, always taking the
ripest and richest. The appearance of the fruit at first sight is that
of having been picked by birds. They have also been seen cutting
their way into a pear and eating the calyx. Although fcund in this
state it does not appear to have been troublesome at any time, and
as a rule it will be found eating into decayed fruit only.

Proper care in removing decaying fruit and gathering carefully and
in due season that which is ripe, will probably prevent any injury by
this species if it should become troublesome, which is not likely.

Spec. char. Imago.—Body oval, deep, shining black; antennae 11-
jointed with an oval club at the end composed of three joints; the
first joint much larger than those which follow it; body much de-
pressed or flattened; thorax nearly or quite as broad at the posterior
margin as the elytra; the joints of the tarsi except the terminal very
short. Each wing-case rounded at the tip so as to fgym between the
two aslight notch, leaving the extremity of the abdomen exposed.
Head Sal thorax marked with small regular punctures. Each wing-
case with two yellow spots which are sometimes slightly tinged with
red ; the one next the base is curved so as to enélose the black point
of the shoulder ; the posterior one is behind the middle, and is trans-
versely oval. The underside black.

Length about one-fifth of an inch.

92
Fam.—DERMESTIDZ.

The name of this family is derived from derma, a skin; and is given
to these insects in allusion to the injury done by their larve to dried
skins and furs.

This family contains small beetles, which are distinguished from
other closely allied forms by having the abdomen completely covered
by the elytra, and by the sternum which is advanced under the mouth
“like a chin-cloth,” or muffler. They are usually marked by light-
colored spots on a dark ground, these spots being composed of minute
scales which can be rubbed off. The antennae areenlarged or clubbed
at the tip.

Not only are they troublesome in warehouses where hides and furs
are stored, in museums and natural history collections, but one species
at least (Dermestes lardarius, Linn) enters our larders and smoke-houses,
and often in the larva state does serious injury to our bacon.

DERMESTES LARDARIUS—Linn.

This beetle is a little under a third of an inch
long, oblong-oval in form, with the antennae en-

geyor front part of the wing-cases of a gray-buff
‘color. The larvae are brown hairy worms. They
are frequently found in cabinets and other nat-
ural history collection, and unless speedily ex-
terminated will destroy those in which they ob-
tain a hold.

Numerous devices have been resorted to to

preserve bacon from their attacks which cannot
be explained here.
DERMESTES LaRDARIvs, Linn. Spec. char.. Imago.—Oblong-oval beetle; the
thorax rounded and narrowed in front, the posterior margin as wide
as the elytra, covered with minute hairs, sprinkled with small tufts
of buff hair. General color dark or black. Elytra finely and thickly
punctured, with very indistinct striae; on the base is a broad pale
band composed of buff-colored pubescence in which are some brown-
ish or black denuded spots, and on the posterior margin is a some-
what flexuous buff patch. The hody beneath is piceous-black with
the breast densely and the abdomen sparingly covered with a shining
buff color. Legs piceous-black. Antennae brown, with the club
dusky. Length one-fourth to one-third of an inch ; width about three-
sevenths of the length.

The well-knoyn bacon beetle.
The following species are mentioned on account of the injury they

sometimes occasion to furs, skins, museums and natural history col-

lections:
7

ATTAGENUS PELLIO—Linn.

Form of the body antenn, and thorax similar to the preceding
species.

}

93

Ovate, black, shining, thickly and minutely punctured, pubescent ;
thorax usually with three white pubescent spots at the base, one at
each angle, the other in the middle; elytra somewhat piceous or

slightly castaneous, with a white pubescent spot on the back of each

wing-case near the suture. The underside piceous-black, clothed with
yellowish pubescence; legs dark, with a reddish tinge. The color is
somewhat variable, being often paler than above described. Length,
one-sixth of an inch. The larve feed on dry skins, furs, woolens, etc.

ANTHRENUS MUS#orRUM—Linn. (A. castanx—Walsh.)

Very small; and similar in form to the preceding.

Color a dull black, irrorated with feruginous scales; thorax with
the disk sparingly dusted with testaceous scales, the posterior angles
and central area densely clothed with whitish ones. Elytra with
three bands composed of whitish and lutescent scales, the basal one
arising at the base of the elytra, passing down the sides of the scutel-
lum, and bending outwards, when it becomes rather obsolete and ir-
regularly flexuous ; the second is a little behind the middle, transverse
and flexuous; the third, which is near the apex, is rather oblique,
and frequently united to the second on the suture or on the margin.
The body beneath is cinereous, with naked marginal spots; femora
black ; tibie and tarsi rufescent; antenne ferruginous with the club
obscure. Variable in size and in the appearance of the bands on the
elytra. Length about ene-tenth of an inch.

As this is chiefly injurious in museums and cabinets of natural
history, I have given the full description, as found in Stephens.

Family TROGASITIDA.

The family characters are given in the description of the following
species :
TENEBRIOIDES (Trogosita) MAURITANICA—Linn.

Oblong, rather elongate, somewhat depressed ; antennx short, with
the three last joints enlarged; tarsi apparently four jointed, the first
joint being so short that it is invisible from above, last joint very
long ; abdomen pedunculated.

An obscure black head and thorax marked with gross scattered
punctures; thorax with a dorsal line, sides simeate, anterior and pos-
terior margins nearly straight, broader at the former than the latter,
posterior angles slightly acute. Elytra striate, with punctures, the
intervening ridges slightly convex. Abdomen and front breast
sparsely punctured. Antenne and feet reddish. Length nearly two-
fifths of an inch; width of elytra and thorax about one-third the
length. *

It has long been supposed this species injured grain stored in grain-
eries ; but it is now believed it preys upon grain-eating larva.

LUCANIDZ. (Stag-Beetles or Horn-Bugs.)

This family includes those species which have received in different
localities the various names of stag-beetles, horn-bugs, pinching-bugs,

94

ete., from their large size, hard, horny texture, and great size of the
jaws (mandibles) of the males, which, in some, are curvcd like the
horns of eattle, and in cthers, branched like the antlers of a stag.
They are oblong, rounded behind, the width across the wing cases is
about half the length; the head in the male is broad, equal to or

exceeding the thorax in width, in the female it is much narrower,
aan is somewhat roughly punctured. The antennae are rather long,
and elbowed in the middle, the first joint usually as long as all the
rest, the last three or four at the tip forming a comb-like “club. The
upper jaws or mandibles largely developed, especially in the males,
and extend forward considerably in advance of the head, like strong
sickles. The color is generally a bright polished uniform mahogany
brown, though quite a number of s ecies are black. Ac ording to
Dr. Harris they lay their eggs in the crevices of the bark of trees, es-
pecially near the roots; I have frequently captured the L. elephas on
the tulip-tree (poplar of southern Illinois) near the roots; also on the
oak. The larvae of the species named below are thick, fleshy, nearly
cylindrical, whitish grubs, somewhat elongate body, but moderately
wrinkled, slightly enlarging toward the. posterior extremity and
curved ; the last segment the longest; the head brown, furnished with
strong jaws ; six thoracic feet, that is, six feet situated on the first
three : segments behind the head. They live in the trunks and roots
of trees, especially decayed trees, logs and stumps. According to Dr.
Harris they even bore into the solid wood, thus frequently doing
considerable injury to the trees they penetrate.

When about to enter the pupa state they construct oval cocoons out
of the chips and dust they make, in which they undergo their last
transformation.

The perfect insects make their appearence usually between the
last of June and the first part of August, according to latitude. This
season they were common in the central and southern part of the
state in July.

LUCANUS ELEPHAS—F abr.

This species is usually rather more than one inch and a quarter in
length, exclusive of the jaws, which, in the male, are about three-
quarters of an inch long, with a strong tooth, and several minute
black teeth on the inner margin, and are forked at the tip; the jaws
of the female are rather less than one-third as long as those of the
male. The legs are rather slender and long. Theentire back is of a
polished mahogany brown, without grooves or furrows; the breast is
covered with yellow silken hair. The head of the male in this spe-
cies is considerably broader than the thorax.

This is found in Southern Llinois, but I believe its range does not
extend further north than the central part of the State. ” According
to my observations this species appears to be especially fond of oaks
and tulip trees (poplars), the latter being preferred where it abounds,
and I fancy that, as this tree is fast disappearing for lumber, I can
notice this species is disappearing in a corresponding ratio, while the
following is increasin® in numbers:

Spec. Char. Imago.—The male has the mandibles enormously devel-
oped, very strongly curved; on the inner side nearest the base is a

_ ~telste

95

strong tooth, beyond this on the inner edge of each jaw are minute
black teeth, the tips forked. The head much broader than the thorax,
having an elevated and bent transverse ridge divided in the middle
by a broad, deep notch. Thorax broader than long, with the sides
nearly parallel. Anterior and middle tibise each with three spines on
the exterior face; the posterior tibiae with two; all the legs long and
slender. Color a uniform chestnut-brown, smooth and shining; elytr: u
without stria; breast more or less covered with yellow hairs. The
female is rather less in size; the mandibles much less developed, not
being more than one-third as long as those of the male; the head nar-
rower than the thorax. Length of the male one and one-fourth to one
and two-fifths inches. Jaws of male three-fourths of an inch.

The well known pinching bug of Southern Illinois:

LUCANUS DAMA—F abr.

This species, which is common throughout the State, though never
Bt very abundant, is very similar in ap-
pearance to the female of the former
species. The jaws of the male are
much less, not more than one-third as
long, and with but a single internal
tooth, and not forked at the tip. Head
about as broad as the thorax. The
length varies froma little over an inch
to one inch anda quarter; its width, as
compared with its length, is rather
greater than the former ; and the legs,
especially the front pair, rather more
robust. The color as in the preceding
species.
This species has been unusually nu-
Lucanus Dana, Fabr.--after Packard. merous in this vicinity (Carbondale)
this season (1875), but I have not ascertained where they resided dur-
ing their larva state.

The larvae of this species, according to Dr. Harris, livein the trunks
and roots of various kinds of trees, but particularly those of oid apple
trees, in willows and oaks.

Spec. Char. Imago.—The size and coloring is similar to that of the for-
mer species, but the jaws are curved only in one direction—toward
each other—and are not more than one-third as long as in that species,
and with but one internal tooth, and are not forked at the top. Head
not so broad, scarcely exceeding the width of the thorax. Legs more
robust and spines of the anterior tibiae broader and more tooth-like.
Length of the male about one inch and one-fourth; of the female, a
little over one inch.

This is the common stag-beetle of Middle and Northern Illinois.

PLATYCERUS QUERCUS.—Web.

This species, which is much smaller than the two preceding, being
only about two- fifths of an inch long, is distinguished by having the
jaws thickened, obtuse and many-toothed at the tip; is of a dark red-

96

dish brown, with a brassy tinge, fhe wing cases with punctured lines
onthem. It has been observed by Mr. Ayers, of Villa Ridge, eating
out the ends of the new shoots and buds of young pear trees. It is
not abundant, and this case appears to have been an unusual one.

Many persons, even full-grown, hardy men, appear to be afraid to
touch these insects, especially the male of elephas, and I have had
them brought to me tied on the end of long sticks, where they had
been fastened by throwing a string around their long jaws. I have
frequently allowed them to pinch with all their strength, the fleshy
part of my fingers, and so far have never had the skin pierced. They
may inflict a slight pain on a delicate hand, but scarcely equal to the
scratch of a pin, and as they possess no poisonous qualities, this is the
utmost injury they can do.

Spec. Char. Imago.—General form and antennal characters, as in
the last two species; mandibles thickened, obtuse and many-toothed
at the end. General color blackish or dark reddish brown, with a
brassy tinge. Mandibles as long as the head, a robust tooth on the
inner margin near the base, armed at the tip with about six small
teeth, exterior edge with a rounded lobe at the base and an elevated
angle nearthe tip. Elytra obsoletely striate, the striae or lines punc-
tured. Anterior tibiae with more than ten unequal, very acute
teeth.

Length about two-fifths of an inch.

Family DYNASTIDA.

Mentioned here only for the purpose of inserting a short descrip-
tion of our largest beetle.

DYNASTES TITYUS.—Linn.
[Fig* 7.]
Antennae lamellate thorax as
broad at the base as at the ely-
tra, rounded and narrowed to-
ward the front, with a long,
curved middle horn and two
smaller lateral ones, without
horns in the female. Head of
the maie with a long and stout
horn curving upward; the fe-
male without a horn. Head
dark in each sex; thorax dark
olive in the female, green in the
male, except the horns, which
are dark. Elytra in both sexes
green marked, with numerous
small black spots and smaller
black dots. Length of male,
exclusive of the horn, about two
inches, width about or slightly
over one-half the length. Fe-
DYNASTES TiITYUs, Linn.—after Riley. male a little smaller.
Found in Southern [linois ; innoxious.

97
MELOLONTHIDA. (Leaf chafers, May-bugs, etc.)

These insects have the antennae short with a distinct club at the
end composed of three plates or leaves opening like the leaves of a
book ; the tip of the abdomen is always exposed, the extremity of the
wing-cases not curving down behind to cover it. As a general rule

the species are oblong, more or less cylindrical in form and fleshy, so
that they fly heavily, the abdomen hanging down. They are gener-
ally of a uniform chesnut-brown color. The claws of their feet are
notched or split at the tip like the point of a pen.

In the perfect or beetle state they feed upon the leaves of fruit and
other trees, often doing serious damage; their split claws admirably
adapting them to this mode of life. As evening and night is their
usual time of flying and feeding, the cause of the injury they do is
often overlooked by those unacquainted with their habits.

Tre larvae or worms from which they are produced are thick,
fleshy, white grubs with dark or brown heads; they are generally
enlarged more or less toward the posterior end, the last segment be-
ing the largest and marked with an indentation across the tip; they
have the usual six thoracic legs; their usual position is on the side
and coiled into a semi-circle; the back is transversely wrinkled.
These have generally received the name “white grubs.” Some of the
species remain in this state for three years, feeding upon the roots of
grasses and of other plants such as strawberries, corn, vegetables and
éven nursery stock.

PHYLLOPHAGA FUscA—Frohl. (Lachnosterna quercina, Knoch.) The
May Beetle.

(Fig. 8.]

This very common species
is of an almost uniform chest-
nut-brown color, though the
head and thorax are some-
times darker brown or almost
black; the breast:is almost
covered with paler silken
hairs.. The wing-cases,
though bearing two or three
very siightly elevated flat-
tened ridges, are not grooved.
It varies in length from three-
fourths to nearly one inch ;
the width across the widest
part being about one half
the length. It is not hairy
above as is the case with

another very similar species

PHYLLOPHAGA (LACHNOSTERNA) FuscA, Frohl; QUERCINA, which is quite common in
Kn. :—1, pupa inits earthen cell; 2, larva; 3, 4, bee- , 4
tle, side and back view. some parts of the State.

The beetles generally make their appearance in the latter part of
_May or June, according to the season and latitude; in the Southern
and Central portions of Illinois they sometimes appear in the early

B—7

98

part of May. In April, when the ground is being plowed or spaded,
often hundreds of them are cast out already in the perfect state, but
then they are of a pale creamy color. They usually emerge from the
ground about dusk in the evening, and as soon as their wings are suf-
ficiently dried take to flight, which often continues until late in the
night, and if caught at this time and examined they will be found
paler than I have described them. Sometimes they move in large
swarms or bodies making a buzzing noise as they pass along just over-
head.

Their term of life in the perfect state is short, not extending more
than two or three weeks; having paired they deposit their eggs in or
near the ground and die. Yet when they appear in large numbers,
as is sometimes tne case, they prove quite destructive to fruit and
ornamental trees by denuding them of their leaves, and as they hide
during the day and feed at night, the agriculturist is often at a loss
to divine the cause of the injury. The eggs of this species are glob-
ular in form; a little less than one-tenth of an inch in diameter, of a
clear watery color; and, according to Riley, are deposited between
the roots of grass enclosed in a ball of earth; others contend that the
beetle deposits them in the ground.

It is in the grub state that they prove most injurious to vegetation,
attacking the roots of various useful plants, especially grass, which
is often severed beneath the surface to such an extent that the sward
may be turned up like a carpet. Wheat, corn, strawberry plants,
nursery stock, and even young trees also suffer from their attacks.
As a usual thing they appear in considerable numbers in a locality
for a year or two, but when they arrive at the perfect state disap-
pear and are not troublesome again for several years.

As a general rule they trouble corn, wheat and nurseries most
where these are put in ground which for some time previous was in
grass.

Neither this nor any of the allied species appear to be subject to the
attacks of any true parasites ; but they are eaten by certain carniver-
ous animals, as the skunk, raccoon, etc.; domestic fowls greedily de-
vour them, as also do certain birds; the predacious ground-beetles also
prey upon them; each, in this way, aiding in keeping them in check.
Prof. Riley is inclined to believe that a certain digger-wasp (Tiphia
inornata—Say) is a genuine parasite on these insects, which he thinks
attaches an egg to the grub, from which, in a short time, is developed
a larva that attaches itself to the white-grub, and finally destroys it.
The larva of this wasp forms a small egg shaped cocoon, which varies
in length from half to three-quarters of an inch, and is a pale brown-
ish or buff color. Last season (1875) I received several of these co-
coons from Iowa, accompanied by specimens of Legyrus gibbosus, a beetle
somewhat similar in appearance to the May beetle, and belonging to
the same group. The person who sent them inquired what relation
the one had to the other, as the one appeared to be plentiful where
the other was abundant.

This wasp varies in length from a little lessthan half to three-fifths
of an inch, and is of a jet black color; the wings smoky or dusky.

The grubs of May beetles are alsosometimes destroyed bya parasitic
cryptogamic plant or fungus which grows out from one or both corners

99

of the mouth, in the form of an elongate, narrow and somewhat flat-

tened woody stem, which occasionally attains several inches in length.
This growth sometimes greatly astonishes persons unacquainted with

its history, who suppose it isa plant springing from seed taken into

the body.

RemeEpiEs.—To destroy the beetles, it has been recommended that
they be shaken from the trees every evening intosheets, or something
that willsecure them. Dr. Harris says the best time for shaking the
trees on which they are lodged is in the morning, as then they do not
attempt to fly. But this remedy is practicable only in a few cases
where but few trees are to be preserved, and are of sufficient value to
justify a careful watch and its thorough use. In order to destroy or
drive away the grubs from meadows and field crops, applications of salt
has been recommended, and in some cases has been at least apparently
beneficial. Alkalies are very obnoxious to the grubs, and speedily
destroys them when applied directly to them, but they reside so deeply
in the soil that it is impossible to reach them with any reasonable
surface application. If repeatedly made, and to the utmost extent,
the vegetation will bear until the roots and surrounding soil is per-
ceptibly impregnated; it is possible that it may be rendered so obnox-
ious to them as to cause them toleave. It is more than probable that,
in the majority of cases reported where such applications are sup-
posed to have been beneficial they have been made the season in
which the lary completed their growth, and that this was the real
reason for their ceasing operations, and not the application. Such
applications to be beneficial should be made annually early in the
spring.

Hogs and domestic fowls are fond of the grubs, and as far as we
will give them an opportunity willassist in destroying them, and in
corn fields which are infested it is well to turn in the former as soon
as the corn is gathered.

Late fall plowing has been recommended and is doubtless bene-
ficial to a certain extent, but to reach them it must be deep, as they
retire to a considerable depth in order to pass the winter.

The best and perhaps the most effectual remedy is to starve them
out. If the field is in meadow or grass, as soon as it is ascertained
that they are present in destructive numbers, plow it up thoroughly
and give it repeated stirrings and leave it fallow or sow it in buck-
wheat, plow late and as often as possible, and in the following spring
plant it in some crop not allied to the grass; that is, not wheat,
corn or oats. After this it may be put in grass, or cereals may be cul-
tivated, with a fair prospect of being free from these pests for several
seasons. This method, although somewhat troublesome, is the only
one that gives sure hope of success, and it possesses the advantage of
being at the same time an efficient means of counteracting the wire-
worm, army-worm, and, to a certain extent, the chinch-bug and some
other injurious species.

This species appears to be confined more especially to the central
and northern sections of the State; being represented in the southern
sections by other species, especially P. fraterna.

Spec. Char. Imago.—Anterior tibiae with three spurs on the outside,
counting the one at the tip; club of the antennae with three leaflets ;

100

claws strongly bifid or split, one tooth above the other; body convex,
sub-cylindrical ; anterior coxw, not prominent; elytra not striate.
Head minutely punctured; front margin roundly notched, and the
edge slightly turned up. Thorax with large scattered punctures; the
sides distinctly curved outward at the middle. Elytra not grooved or
hairy, but a ridge along the sutural or inner margin of each, which
gives the appearance of a single groove on each case, two or three in-
distinct ridges on each. Scutellum rather broader than long; punc-
tured at the sides. Almost uniform chestnut-brown ; head and thorax
generally darkest; abdomen varies from reddish-brown to black ;
breast covered with yellow, silken hairs. Length from seven-tenths
to nearly one inch; width about one-half thelength. The color when
the insect first appears is rather lighter than given above, but deepens
with age, becoming in some places almost black.

TIPHIA INORNATA—Say.

Spec. char. Imago.—General color jet black, unspotted sometimes
with a faint bluish tinge; wings yellowish, fuliginous or smoky.
Head punctured; antenne piceus, paler toward the top; mandibles
piceus, blackish,at the top. Thorax punctured, wing-scale, and pos-
terior margin of the first segment impunctured ; the metathorax with
three longitudinal, slightly elevated lines. Feet hairy; abdomen
hairy, especially behind. Size varies from two-fifths to three-fifths of
an inch.

Larva.— Length 0.25-0.50 inch when full grown; greatest diam-
eter one-third the length; largest in middle; twelve joints and a
sub-joint, exclusive of head. Head bent over on the breast. Color
transluscent-white, with a broad transverse, opaque wrinkle around
each joint ; on all the stigmata-bearing joints, except one, this wrinkle
is constricted into two ellipsoidal pieces dorsally, strongly bulging
laterally into semi-oval tubercles, like pendopods, and sub-obsolete
ventrally. Labrum edged with brown. Stigmata small, circular
brown, and placed on posterior part of joint 1, and on anterior parts of
joints 4-11. Analslit transverse (Riley).

P. pILosicoLLis—Knoch. (The hairy May-beetle.)

This species is rather smaller than the preceding, being only about
half an inch long. It differs from that species in the following re-
spects: It is generally paler; the head and thorax are reddish-brown
and covered with long, pale, yellowish hairs; the wing-cases are pale,
reddish-yellow, and covered with hair, and the body is more com-
pletely cylindrical.

With these exceptions, and some slight anatomical differncees, it
agrees in its characters with the preceding species.

It makes its appearance in the Central and Southern portions of
this State early in May as a generalrule. It appears to be much
more abundant in the Southern sections than the former species, in
fact I have observed it here, in certain seasons in large numbers,
whereas the other species appear to be somewhat rare, unless we may
possibly have in this section a variety of that species smaller than the
usual size, but which I refer to P. fraterna.

101

Spec. char. Inago.— Antennae, tibiae, claws, coxae and form of the
body as in the preceding species. Head and thorax reddish-brown,
covered with long, pale, yellowish hairs. The head has the front
margin entire—not notched—rounded, slightly turned up and pune-
tured. The lateral margins of the thorax suddenly dilated in the
middle. The scutellum triangular, rounded at the tip, hairy. Elytra
pale reddish-yellow or pale reddish-brown, covered with hair, the inner
or sutural margins generally a darker red than the other portions.
Breast hairy ; entire underside a bright reddish-brown. Length about
half an inch.

P. FRATERNA—Harr. (The Kindred May-beetle).

This is very similar in form, color and markings to the fusca, and
will scarcely be distinguished from that species by the unscientific
observer, nor is the distinction very material in a practical point of
view, as the habits of the two so far as known are the same. It agrees
with that species in color and in the absence of hair on the back, but
is considerably smaller, varying in length from a little over half to
three-fifths of an inch, and in the thorax is not so distinctly and sud-
denly enlarged at the sides.

Spec. char. Imago.— Antenne, tibiz, claws, coxe and form of the body as
in the two preceding species; very similar in appearance and celor to P.
fusca, the chief difference between the two being as follows: This color
species is considerably smaller than the other; the front margin of
the head is more sharply notched and rather more distinctly turned
up; the thorax is not so distinctly dilated on the lateral margins,
and the punctures are also more minute and less distinct. Body not
hairy above. Underside usually of a lighter color than the preceding
species. Length from a little over a half to three-fifths of an inch.

I find that most of my specimens, taken in 1875 in Southern Ili-
nois, and which at first sight I thought belonged to fusca, in fact be-
long to fraterna, while those taken around Bloomington, in the
central part of the State, are generally specimens of fusca.

There are other species of this group found in the State, but as
these are the most common and most injurious, and their general ap-
pearance and habits are the same, it is unnecessary to mention any
others.

Remarks.—These three species are so closely related to each other
that a statement applicable to one is generally applicable to the other,
and hence they may be practically considered together.

During the month of June and July they often fly into the room at
night where there is a light with a buzzing sound, and striking the
wall or some other object, fall to the floor ; if not disturbed, at length
they rise again, and ascending to the ceiling, continue to buzz and thump
pond the room until, striking something, they again fall to the
floor.

In the beetle, or perfect state, all are leaf-eaters, and have been
known to attack the leaves of various oaks, Lombardy poplar, elm,
maple, cheery, and other fruit trees. It would appear, therefore, that
all deciduous trees are liable to be injured by them, and in prairie
sections, where trees are comparatively few and grasses abundant, they
are likely to do considerable injury to fruit and ornamental trees.

102

The remedies mentioned under P. fusca are equally applicable to all
the other species, and in fact to any and all the species of this group
(genus) found in that State.

There is also a group or genus closely allied to those just mentioned
which contains some species that occasionally prove more or less in-
jurious. This genus-Serzca (silky leaf-chafers), as its name indicates,
is distinguished by the soft, silky pubescence with which the body is
covered; it agrees with Phyllophaga in the general form of the body,
and in the characters of the antenne and claws, but differs from that
genus in having the wing-cases distinctly grooved or furrowed length-
wise, and in the size of its species, which are smaller.

SERICA SERICEA—Knoch. (The Silky Leaf-chafer).

This is asmall beetle about one-third ofan inch long, varying in color
from a light-brown to almost black, with a silky lustre, changeable
like satin, and when living, reflecting the colors of the rainbow in
favorable light. The head has a few hairs upon it.

Spec. char. Imago.— Antennae, tibiae, claws, and form as in the pre-
ceding species; hind coxae very broad; of small size; varying in
color from a light brown to almost a black, with a®silky lustre, irides-
cent or changeable like satin. The head has a few hairs upon it, is
densely punctured, the front margin slightly notched and slightly
turned up. The thorax with numerous small and somewhat equally
distributed punctures ; lateral edge not dilated in the middle. Scut-
ellum longer than wide, triangular, punctured each side. Elytra
distinctly striated, the striae or grooves confluently punctured. Length
from one-third to nearly two-fifths of an inch.

S. VESPERTINA—Sch. (The Evening Silky Leaf-ehafer).

Is similar in most respects to sericea or silky leaf-chafer. The head
and thorax are reddish-brown ; the wing-cases paler or more of a red-
dish-yellow, with rather more distinct or deeper grooves than the for-
mer species. The length varies from three to four-tenths of an inch.

I do not find that any serious complaint has been made against
either of these species in the West, and so far as my observations have
extended they do not appear to be very common. Dr. Harris states
that in the perfect or beetle state they attack the leaves of the sweet-
briar or sweet-leaved rose, on which they are found in profusion of an
evening in the latter part of June. I have generally found them in
the Southern part of the State on low shrubbery and about black-
berry patches. It is probable their attacks are confined to one group
of the Rosaceae. !

I am not acquainted with the larvae, but they are doubtless similar
to that of P. fusca in form and general character, and also as we may
safely presume, in habits.

Spec. Char. Imago.—Simiiar to S, sericea in every respect except as
follows: Is alittle smaller (Harris and Le Baron say the same size,
but my specimens appear as a rule to be smaller); head and thorax
reddish-brown, elytra paler; head truncate in front, with a minute
notch or scallop at each side near the tip, front margin slightly re-
flected; thorax with the punctures deeper; scutel punctured and

108

rounded at the tip; grooves of the elytra dilated, shallow, and punc-
tured, the intermediate ridges narrower than the grooves and strongly
convex; underside a dull reddish-brown. Length from three to four-
tenths of an inch.

MACRODACTYLUS SUBSPINOSUS—F abr. (The Rose-bug).

Belonging to the same sub-family and possessing the same generalor
family characters, that is having split claws, and short antennae with
a three-leaved club at the tip is the well-known rose-bug. It is only
about one-third of an inch long and much more slender in form than
those species, and having nothing of that fleshy, heavy appearance
they present. The joints of the feet are very long, which gave rise
to the generic name Macrodactylus, which signifies long-toed.

As this insect has never been troublesome in that portion of the
State in which I live I have had no opportunity to study its habits,
and therefore give the following from Dr. Harris’ very full account:

The beetles come forth (in Massachusetts) in June or about the time
the damask rose blossoms; and remain about thirty or forty days.
The female lays about thirty white and nearly globular eges from one
to four inches beneath the surface of the soil. They are hatched in
about twenty days and the young larva begin at once to feed upon the
tender roots within theirreach. Like the grubsof the species already
described, when not eating they lie upon the side with the body
curved so that the head and tail are nearly in contact. They attain
their full size in the autumn, being then nearly three-quarters of an
inch long, and about an eighth of an inch in diameter. They are of
a yellowish-white color with a tinge of blue toward the hinder ex-
tremity, which is thick and obtuse; a few short hairs are scattered
on the surface of the body ; six short legs situated on the first three
rings behind the head; the head is of a pale rust color. When win-
ter approaches they descend below the reach of frost ; here they remain
until spring; and having passed the pupa state they come forth in
the perfect or beetle state in June.

It isin the latter state that they prove most injurious, often in-
flicting immense injury on the horticulturalist by eating the blossoms
and leaves of shrubs and trees. In its normal condition the rose blos-
soms appear to form the favorite food, but when it appears in vast
numbers it seems to be an indiscriminate feeder; the grape-vine in
particular is liable to suffer; cherry, plum and apple trees are often
materially injured. Nor do they stop with these, for in some instances
forest trees, corn, grain, grass and garden vegetables have been laid
under contribution to their voracious appetite; even elder, which is
supposed to be obnoxious to insects, is freely eaten by them. The
worthless ox-eye daisy (Chrysanthemum cucanthemum), according to Dr.
Fitch, is a favorate with them. They do not appear to be uniformly
distributed, but confined to somewhat limited areas, only one or two
of which, so far as I am aware, are found within our State; another
area, including three or four counties, is found in Kansas; but it is
quite likely that in favorable seasons they will appear in different
localities. According to Prof. Riley, it has been ascertained that it
has strong predilection for the Clinton grape, and its close allies, and
that it will gather upon that variety and leave others unmolested ; it

1C4

is also stated that it never molests the cinnamon rose. Its attacks
upon the apple trees are directed chiefly against the fruit, at least
such appears to have been the case where it has appeared in orchards
in this State; but the leaves are also laid under contribution when
the supply of fruit begins to fail.

RemMeEDtEs.—I am not aware that this insect has any specific para-
site of its own class which preys upon it; the large dragon-flies and
ouher predaceous insects seize and devour more or less of them, and
assist in keeping them in check when not excessively numerous.
Insect-eating birds and domestic fowls devour them freely ; but when
they become excessively multiplied these natural checks are wholly
insufficient to prevent their being injurious. Shaking on to sheets
and hand-picking are the only remedies of any value which have been
recommended, as no application which can be made appears to have
any effect. If the ground in which the grubs reside can be ascer-
tained, it would be well to dig or plow it up in the winter to such a
depth as to expose them, and thus destroy them ; it is possible that in
those localities where they appear to be annual visitants, this might
aid in exterminating them where it can be thoroughly done.

Fortunately this pest does not appear to have visited our State very
extensively ; but as the amount of shrubbery, and number of orchards
and cultivated trees is rapidly increasing, we may expect them before
marly years.

Spec. char. Imago.— Although differing very materially from the pre-
ceding species in form, yet the form of the antenne, number of spurs
oa the anterior tibie, and the character of the clawsare the same. It
is much slenderer, possessing nothing of the fleshy, heavy characters
of those species, is broadest across the middle of the elytra, and tapers
forwards ; the thorax is angularly expanded at the middle of each
side, and the length exceeds the width. It is covered with buff-col-
ored scales or down, which give it a brownish-yellow appearance, but
if these are rubbed off, the head, thorax and underside will appear
black, and the wing-cases brown. The antenne are brownish-yellow.
black at the tips, and nine-jointed, including the three-jointed club at
the end. The legs are slender, and of a pale reddish color ; the joints
of the tarsi are tipped with black, and are very long. Length about
one-third of an inch.

RUTELIDA. (The Vine-chafers.)

Somewhat closely related to the May-beetles are certain species of bee-
tles, which have a similar habit in the perfect state ofeating the leaves
of woody plants, but especially those of the grape-vine, often doing
great injury to #he cultivated varieties. They, like those of the last-
mentioned family, possess the short antenne, with a club at the end
composed of leaves or plates, but are chiefly distinguished by having
one of the claws on each foot thicker and stouter than the other, the
Wing-cases more or less grooved. The larvze do not appear to be well-
known except of a few species; and as it is in the perfect state they
prove injurious, so far as known, only one or two will be noticed for
the purpose of indicating their general character.

”

i

sees

105
ANOMALA VARIANS—Fabr. (The Variable Vine-chafer.»

This species is of a broad, oval shape, scarcely one-third of an inch
long; the head and thorax of the male is generally of a greenish-
black color, margined with pale yellow ; the wing cases usually dull
yellow, occasionally marked with two indistinct and imperfect brown-
ish or blackish bands, and indistinctly grooved.

Spec. char. Imago.—The claws on the anterior or middle tarsi cleft.
Klytra striate and punctured in the striew or grooves; the thorax plain
and nearly or quite hairless. It is of a plain oval shape, scarcely

- one-third of an inch long; the head and thorax of the male is a dark

olive or greenish-black, margined with yellow, thickly punctured.
The elytra usually dull yellow, but occasionally variegated with
brownish or black so as to form two imperfect bands, faintly grooved
and punctured along the grooves.

A. LUcIcOLA—Fabr. (The Light-loving Vine-chafer.)

Similar to, and scarcely distinguishable from, the preceding species.
It usually has the top of the head and middle of the thorax black,
though some specimens of this and the former are entirely black.
Length about one-third of an mh 8

Spec. char. Imago.—This species belongs to the same genus as the
preceding; has the same general characters as that species, and resem-
bles it so closely that it is difficult to distinguish the one from *the
other, if, in fact, they are distinct. It usvally has the top of the
head and middle portion of the thorax black, and Dr. LeBaron states
that specimens of both species occur entirely black. The wing-cases
are rather more distinctly and profoundly punctured than in the
former, and are not usually marked with the blackish spots or bands.
Size same as the preceding.

A. BINOTATA—Gyll. (The Two-spotted Vine-chafer.)

Similar to the preceding species, and of the same size, but distin-
guished chiefly by two irregular blackish spots on the wing-cases—
one on each case, a little in advance of the middle.

Spec. char. Imago.—General characters as in the last two species.
The head is black and thickly punctured; front margin rounded
and slightly turned up; thorax greenish-black, slightly punctured
.and smoother than the head; scutellum dark-brown; elytra dull yel-
low, with indistinct furrows and lines of punctures, and an irregular,
rather large blackish spot on each side a little in advance of the mid-
dle, and each case (elytron) lined all around both on the outer and
inner edges with a narrow black margin. Size same as the preceding
species.

We are unacquainted with the preparatory states of these species,
but the larve are doubtless six-footed grubs: somewhat similar in ap-
pearance to the grub of the “may-beetle,” but as a matter of course of
asmaller size. It is in the perfect or beetle state alone, so far as we are
aware, that they have proven injurious; these attack the cultivated
grape-vines, often denuding them of their leaves upon which they
feed. Dr. Le Barun, in his First Report (page 54), gives an account
of the injury done by the A. lucicola to the vineyards of Mr. Ayres and

106

Judge Brown, in Villa Ridge, in the extreme southern part of the
State. From this account, which I will not repeat here, it appears
that their attack in this case was directed more particularly against
Norton’s Virginia, while the Concords and Ives remained compara-
tively exempt. Mr. Ayers states that when first discovered, about
sundown, “they were flying close to the ground in a zig-zag style, and
in such numbers as to sound like a swarm of bees.” Dr. Le Baron,
to whom some of the leaves which had been injured were sent, states
that, “they resembled a piece of coarse, irregular net-work, all the
larger veins and part of the smaller ones being left.” It also appears
from the same account that this species is really a night feeder, not-
withstanding the general opinion to the contrary. Their time of ap-
pearance in Villa Ridge was in the latter part of June; and in that
instance continued their operations but one or two nights, and then
descended a few inches into the soil, where, according to;Mr. Ayres,
it appears that they pared, and the female deposited their eggs.

ReEMEDIES.—As they appear very suddenly, operate rapidly, and
disappear as suddenly, it is difficult to devise any method of counter-
acting them. As they readily drop from the vines when disturbed,
Dr. Le Baron suggests shaking them into a sheet and destroying them,
so far as it is possible to do this af night while feeding; where they
remain during the day in such numbers is not known ordinarily; I
have found them during the day in the fields on weeds, blackberry
bushes and other shrubs. Dusting the leaves with lime or syringing
with some obnoxious fluid has been recommended, but to be effectual
if at all, they must be detected when they first appear and the appli-
exaan made at once, or in advance if there is reason to anticipate
them.

Fortunately they never appear in destructive numbers.

PSLIDNOTA PUNCTATA—Linn. (The Spotted Vine-chafer).
(Fig. 9.]

This is a large oval-shaped
beetle about one inch long and
half an inch or a little more
in width; of ashining brown-
ish-yellow or clay color above,
with a small black spot on
each side of the thorax, and
three similar spots on each
wing-case; of a deep bronzed
or blackish-green color be-
neath. The broad, straight,
flat face has no cross line di-
viding the lower portion from
the upper as is usual.

Prof. Riley, who first de-
scribed the larva, says it is a
large, clumsy grub, bearing a

PELIDNOTA PUNCTATA, Linn.—a, larva; ¢, itsantenna; Close resemblance to the com-
5, 2eg ip of abdomen ; b, pupa, ins ell the walls mon white grub of our mea-
ment; c, beetle. dows. and it differs from that
species principally in being wrinkled, and in having the skin more
polished and of a pure white color, and in the distinct heart-shaped

107

swelling on the last segment. They appear to feed chiefly on the
decaying roots of different trees, and so far as known are not injurious
to vegetation.

The beetle which is found throughout the State, but more abund-
antly in the central than in the southern part, flies and feeds by day,
and is most generally found in July and August. It attacks the
foliage of the grape-vines, upon which it chiefly subsists; the Vir-
ginia creeper, which, according to Prof. Riley, is eaten by it, being:
the only other plant which it touches, so far as known.

Although so universally distributed, it usually occurs in such lim-
ited numbers that the injury it inflicts is small. Being day feeders,
of large size and rather slow in their movements, they can easily be
gathered and destroyed when they appear in sufficient numbers to
threaten serious injury to the vines, and as this is a specific, it 1s use-
less to seek for or try any other.

Spec. Char. Imago.—Claws simple, not cleft, but one larger and stouter
than the other; antenne as in the preceding species ; clypeus not dis-
tinct from the front, there being no transverse indented line separat-
ing the two. The front of the head, the broad, flat face, is usually
bronzed, while the posterior part is greenish, with a coppery lustre ;
the middle portions sometimes colored as the thorax, which is of a
brownish-yellow or clay color, and is marked with a black dot on each
side. The elytra are colored as the thorax, and each case is marked
with three black dots, which are arranged nearly in a longitudinal
line on the outer half; the scutellum is green. The claws are unequal
in size, but none are notched or cleft as in anomala. This beetle is
large, oval shaped, about one inch long and half an inch or more in
width, of a shining brownish-yellow or clay color, and deep bronzed or
blackish-green beneath. Common throughout the State.

Family CETONIIDA.

Very closely related to the last family are certain, usually bright,
metalic colored beetles, which, from certain structural differences of
comparatively minor importance, have been brought together under
the above family name; the antenne have a club at the end similar
to that of the previous family ; all the claws of the feet are simple and
equal, neither split nor unequal in size; the anterior coxe conical and
prominent ; scutellum usually triangular and pointed, though in one
genus it is not visible, being covered by a posterior extension of the
thorax. In the two genera mentioned here the thorax is somewhat

‘ triangular, narrowed in front and nearly or quite as wide behind as
the elytra. Antenne with a lamellated club.

GYNMETIS (ALLORHINA) NITIDA—-Linn.
[Fig 10.]

GYMNETIS (ALLORHINA) NITIDA, Linn.—a, larya ; b, pupa; ¢, male beetle ; d, e, f, g, mandible,
antenna, leg and maxillary pa!pus of larva.

108

The scutellum is wanting, the place being occupied by a posterior
extension of the thorax, which part is triangular, thus giving the
whole thorax taken together the form ofa trapezoid. The head is quad-
rate, with an obovate extension in front; upper surface with a ridge
on each margin and one in the middle. Elytra with rounded shoul-
ders and slightly narrowing posteriorly, with two slight longitudinal
ridges on each case. General color a beautiful velvety-green, with
broad margin of orange-yellow around the elytra.

Length three-quarters of an inch ; width of elytra across the shoul-
ders about one-half the length.
This is the June-bug of some sections.

EURYOMIA INDA—Linn. (The Indian Cetonian.)

‘This species, which varies in length from a little over half to nearly
two-thirds of an inch, is of a dark, coppery-brown, sometimes of a
dark, olive-green, with a coppery lustre, with yellowish hairs, and
sprinkled with black dots.

It makes its appearance in the latter part of spring or early in the
summer, April or May, and may be seen in considerable numbers; it
also may be seen about groves of trees and hedges and in the fields.
The second brood makes its appearance in September in the southern
part of the State, sometimes as early as the latter part of August, be-
ing seen frequently quite abundant on the flowers of various weeds,
especially on the golden-rod.

It is chiefly injurious in the beetle state, eating into fruit, espec-
ially peaches, of which it is peculiarly fond, and to which it some-
times does considerable injury.

Spec. char. Imago.—The scutcllum distinct, its length exceeding its
width ; on the outside of each wing-case, at the base betweentit and
the thorax, is another small triangular piece. Each wing-case‘is sud-
denly expanded at the shoulder, and has two longitudinal ridges along
the middle portion which come together near the tip. The tip of the
abdomen exposed. The head and thorax of a dark copper-brown,
thickly covered with yellowish hairs; elytra yellowish-brown, reflect-
ing metalic tints and shades, and sprinkled over with small, irregular
black spots. Underside black and hairy, with the edge of the seg-
ments and the legs usually of a dull reddish color.

Length varies from a little over half to nearly two-thirds of an inch.

FE. MELANCHOLICA—-G. and P. (The Melancholy Cetonian).

This is a smaller species than the preceding, being less than one-
half and usually only about two-fifths of an inch in length. It
may be known by the dark olive and almost black color of the thorax
and wing-cases, and by the transverse waving white lines on the
latter.

The specimens taken in Southern Illinois this season (1875) vary
somewhat from the typical characters and appear to approach very
near to Say’s vestita, a species which Dr. Le Coute says he is unac-
quainted with; some of them have the transverse white lines more
or less cbliterated.

109

It has been observed eating into and injuring apples in this State,
and it appears to take the place of the other species in some sections,
_ which may in those places prove equally injurious.

As neither of these species have been traced through their trans-

formations, the only remedy known is to gather and destroy the
beetles.

Spec. char. Imago.—The characters are similar to those of the pre-
_ ceeding species. Face is somewhat elongate, and with no cross ridge
or suture; is strongly deflexed, or nearly perpendicular ; front mar-
gin turned up. Thorax, breast and upper part of the head covered
with hair. The scuttellum triangular, longer than wide; the poste-
rior angle elongate and acute. The pieces between the thorax and
shoulders of the elytra small and triangular; the side next the ely-
tra slightly curved; elytra with two ridges as in the preceding spe-
cies, and tip of the abdomen exposed; the sutural margin in both
species is somewhat raised so as to form a middle ridge when the
eases are closed; color, a dark, olive green, the elytra havirg a brown-
ish or coppery tinge, and sometimes of a dark, reddish-brown color,
the ridges being rather darker than the other portions of the elytra.
Seven abbreviated and more or less interrupted whitish lines or
bands cross the elytra; these are narrow, and appear to be made up of
elongated dots. Length about three-eigths of an inch, width a little
over one-half the length.

BUPRESTID.%. (Saw-horned Wood-borers. )

These insects may be easily recognized by their peculiar form
shown in the armexed cut; their antenna, which are slender and not
clubbed at the end, but of equal size throughout, and furnished on one
side with minute saw-like teeth; by the spine-like prolongation of
the hind margin of the front breast, and by their metalic colors. The
head appears as though it had been pressed back into the thorax.

The larve are of two forms, which are quite different from each
other. One is a footless grub more or less flattened and having the
segment immediately behind the head much enlarged in width,
while the remaining segments are much narrower. The other form
does not have the first segment unusually enlarged, the whole body
being somewhat slender and tapering posteriorly, and each of the
first three segments with a pair of small legs set wide apart.

These larvee are wood-borers, yet, asa rule, they appear to attack
those trees which are suffering from some disease or impaired vital-
ity, but yet not in absolute decay.

Family Characters—Antenne finely serrate; not clubbed or en-
larged at the tip, but similar throughout ; body usually of an elon-
gate, oval or long elliptical form in outline, of a firm, infiexible tex-
ture; head usually deeply immersed in the thorax; scuttellum very
small and sometimes wholly wanting; the prosternum prolonged be-
hind to a point which is received into a corresponding notch or cay-
ity in the meso sternum. This part (prosternum) is also advanced
in front, but not in a point, but like a muffler. Most of these char-
actersare also common to the next family; the Buprestide being
distinguished by the finely serrate antenne, and by the fact that the
prosternal point is immovable, that the anterior and middle legs are
furnished with trochanters and the metalic colors.

110

«HRYSOBOTHRIS FEMORATA—Fabr. (The Flat-headed Apple-tree borer.)

(ie. 18) This species is of a dark, dull greenish or
dark grayish color, with a strong copper lustre,
the whole upper surface having the appearance
of being sprinkled with an ash-colored powder,
the under side and limbs of a brilliant coppery
color, the feet green. The head is immersed in
the thorax to the eyes. Length usually about
half an inch, but there is considerable varia-
tion in size.

The usual length of the larva is about seven-
tenths of an inch. It is soft, flesh-like, and of
a pale yellow colof. The head is small and
& ZY deeply immersed into the following segment ;
Kin the jaws black. The third segment is ver

CHRYSOBOTHRIS FEMORATA, J 5 aac fs A
Fab:—Flat-headed borer of the broad and large, being nearly twice the width
Were lavas c head cflawa, of any of the posterior segments; it is rather
underside ; b, pupa; d, beetle. broader than long, having on the upper side a
large oval callous-like elevation covered with numerous brown raised
points.

The eggs, according to Prof. Riley, are pale yellow, and irregularly
ribbed or corrugated, ovoidal, with one end flattened and 0.02 of aninch
in length; they are usually glued by the female under the loose
scales or within the cracks and crevices of the bark, several of them
being not unfrequently found together. The young larve hatched
from these gnaw their way through the bark, and gradually, as it
grows, extends its broad and flattened channel next the bark, gird-
ling the smaller trees. At length, when it has grown stronger and
its jaws firmer, it bores into the more solid wood of the tree, working
upward until about to undergo its transformation, when it cuts a
passage to the outside, leaving a thin covering at the surface through
which the beetle afterwards forces its way. The beetle usuaily makes
its appearance in May or June.

It is subject to the attacks of several parasites, some of which,
though not specifically determined, belong to the Chalcididzx, an exten-
sive family of small four-winged wasp-like flies, which probably
deposit their eggs in the larvee, and from which small white grubs
about the tenth of an inch long are produced, which finally destroy
their host. Prof. Riley has discovered two other parasites belonging
to the Ichneumon family, also wasp-like insects. One, which he
names Bracon charus, is about one-third of an inch long, without the
vipositor, which is a little longer than the body. The abdomen is
red, the rest black, the wings being a deep smoky color, with a faint
zig-zag Clear line across the middle from the stigma. The other spe-
cies is the Cryptus grallator of Say, in which the general color is
brownish yellow, the wings being marked with two dusky or smoky
patches on each. Length of body about half an inch, ovipositor
scarcely a third of an inch long. When ants can penetrate their
‘burrows they usually destroy them.

The flat-headed borer, although more injurious to the apple than
any other cultivated tree, attacks a number of both native and cul-
tivated species its favorite in the natural state appears to be the oak,

|

i

"
%

Bh

111

} especially the white oak. Prof. Riley says he has also reared it from the

mountain ash, box elder, peach and pear, and that he has found the

- larvee in the beech, plum and cherry, to which J can add, upon simi-

lar evidence, the hickory, and Dr. Le Baron says it also injures the

_ soft maples.

REMEDIES.—As it has been quite clearly shown that asa rule this

_ borer only attacks those trees which have their health in some way

impaired, it follows as a natural consequence that keeping the trees

ina healthy condition is one of the best methods of preventing at-

tacks. Trees which are in any way wounded, those which are over-
pruned, and those transplanted, especially if above the proper size for
such change, are all more liable to the attack of the borer than those
which are undisturbed.

An excellent preventive is coating the trunk and larger limbs with
soap in the latter part of spring and the middle of summer, as it is

_ not only obnoxious to the female, but as it gradually runs down to the

roots in the form of soap-suds, it nourishes the tree and perhaps does
as much good in this way as any other.

Whitewashing, painting with a mixture of soap, lime and Paris
green, applications of coal tar and of axle grease, injecting various
liquids into the burrows, plugging in camphor, running in wires, cut-
ting out with a knife, are some of the various remedies which have
been used, and Mr. Austin, of the firm of Austin & Co., Downer’s
Grove Nursery, informs me that kerosene was tried in their nursery
last year with complete success against this borer, and without injury
to the trees. He expects to follow up the experiment, and will report
the result hereafter.

As these insects are diurnal, it would be well for our horticulturists
to learn not only to distinguish the beetle, but also to know the time
when they deposit their eggs, which in this latitude is the last of May
and first of June. And, as I have elsewhere stated, “Where the perfect
insect can be caught let them be utterly destroyed, and that without
mercy.” A few dimes, or what is better, a few appropriate books be-
stowed on careful children as a reward for the destruction of these and
other insect pests will not be in vain. Children are not slow in learn-
ing to distinguish species; a few times showing and noting the promi-
nent characters will enable them to distinguish them.

Let the orchard or trees be properly cultivated and carefully pruned
when necessary; in other words, follow that course necessary to give
healthy, vigorous trees with natural smooth bark.

Mr. Crotch in his check list of the Coleoptera of North America,
gives C. alabamx, Gory. C. 4-impressa, Gory. C. lesueuri,Gory. C.
fastidiosa, Gory. (C. obscura, Lec. and C. semisculpta, Lec., as varieties of
this species, which varies much in size and depth of color.

Spec. char. Imago.—This species is of a dark, dull, greenish color,
with a strong coppery lustre, deepest on the forehead and tips of the
elytra. The head is immersed in the thorax to the eyes; the obtuse
front is clothed with fine whitish hairs, and is furnished with a pit
or depression for the insertion of the antennae; on the top of the
head is a short, smooth, raised, black line. The thorax is wider than
it is long, its length being about equal to the with of the head; it is
convex and has a slight lengitudinal indentation in the middle; is

112

punctured and somewhat uneven. The elytra are broader than the
thorax ; they commence to taper a little behind the middle and are
narrowed backward roundly and rather acutely; on each wing-case
are two irregularly, oblong, impressed, transverse spots, which are
generally of a deeper green or copper color than the surrounding sur-
face—these sometimes appear double. The whole upper surface of
the insect appears as if it had been sprinkled with an ash-colored
powder. The under side and limbs are of a brilliant copper lustre;
the feet bright green. Length about half an inch, but there is con-
siderable variation in size, which has given rise to a number of speci-
fic names for what are now supposed to be only varieties of this
species.
CHALCOPHORA VIRGINIENSIS—Drury.

The generic characters which distinguish it are: Meso-sternum
and meta-sternum united without suture ; first joint of the hind tarsi
as long as the second and third united ; thorax sub-quadrate, sides less
rounded than in the preceding. The specific: upper side of the body
roughly punctured; top of the head deeply indented; three smooth
raised black lines on the thorax ; general color brassy or copper; on
each wing-case are two small impressed spots, a long, elevated black
line near the outer margin, another near the inner margin, with sey-
eral short lines of the same kind between them.

Length from four-fifths to one inch or a little over; width a little
less than one-third the length.

The larva is the pine tree borer.

DICERCA DIVARICATA. (The Cherry-tree Borer.)

This is of a bright coppery or brassy color throughout, with a few
small oblong raised black points on the wing-cases; the head and
thorax are somewhat roughened or granulate; the wing-cases are
elongate, tapering much behind and suddenly cut off at the tips
where the two cases are separated or parted from each other. The
length varies from seven to nine-tenths of an inch, width about three-
tenths the length.

The larvee, so far as I am aware, have not been described, nor have
I had an opportunity of examining them; but we may reasonably pre-
sume they are similar in form to those of the C. femorata just de-
scribed. Their attacks appear to be directed chiefly against the wild
and cultivated cherry-trees. They are also found occasionally boring
into the peach-tree, and, Dr. Le Conte adds, the beech.

The perfect insects are to be found from June to August, basking in
the sunshine on the limbs of these trees.

Spec. char. Imago.—Of a shining bronze or copper color throughout,
rather deeper beneath than above; head and thorax coarsely punc-
tured so as to give them a granulated appearance; the thorax is
slighly furrowed in the middle; posterior lateral angles acute.
Elytra striate, marked with some oblong black dots, arranged some-
what in lines; elongate, acuminate posteriorly, the extreme points
truncate and separating from each other. The breast is furrowed,
and the males are furnished with a little tooth on the under side of
the middle tibia. The length varies from seven to nine-tenths of an
inch ; width about three-tenths of the length.

by 113
D. LURIDA—F abr.

This species so closely resembles D. divaricata that it is difficult to
distinguish one from the other. This is rather darker than the for-
mer, and of a less brilliant metalic lustre; the black points on the
elytra more numerous; the tapering portion of the wing-cases not so

elongate; the tips, which are blunter, are each furnished with two
little spines which point backward. Length, from half to five-eighths
of an inch; width, about one-third the length.

The larve of this species appear to confine their operations to the
\hickory, in which they burrow; but, as a general rule, I think such
- trees only are infested by them as are already ina state of decay.

I am not aware that either of these species of Dicerca have proven
injurious to any considerable extent in this State. If they should
become troublesome hereafter, I presume the remedies applicable to
C. femorata would apply with similar effect to them.

The following method of preventing the ravages of borers is given
by T. J. Ford in the Rural Alabamian :

“You recommend the frequent washing of apple trees with strong
soap-suds, to prevent the ravages of the borer. Now, this may be
very well, but, in my opinion, it is far from the only and cheapest
means by which we may safely combat this predaceous enemy.

“ Assoon as an apple tree attains the age of two or three years, the
trunk, and finally the larger branches, become literally enveloped in
some kind of an adnascent fungus or foreign deposit. It is beneath
these fungi, and immediately in contact with the bark, that the
beetle deposits her eggs, which soon hatch and immediately commence
their work of devastation. This mischief is continued from one to
three years, according to the species, unless they are destroyed by
man, or that despised, though the best of farmers’ friends, the sap-
sucker.

‘Now, the beetle never deposits her eggs ona smooth trunk or limb,
but deep and securely beneath the deposits above named. The only
object to be accomplished by washing the trees with soap-suds is to
remove this deposit. The alkali thus left on the tree has nothing to
do in preventing the beetle from depositing her eggs. It is true this
application fnay be beneficial in some slight degree to the tree, but
not of sufficient importance to recommend its adoption.

“ Experience has convinced me that anything that will remove this
deposit from the trunk of the tree is equally as efficacious as soap-suds.
Indeed, all a person has todo is to examine his trees carefully in
early spring, and where he finds this deposit the thickest, and especi-
ally when it has assumed a dark or greenish appearance, to remove It
the easiest way he can. A common table knife answers a good pur-
pose, coarse sand paper is excellent, and a very stiff brush does the
work most efficiently, and without this precaution it is folly to expect
apples, especially on old trees that are worthy of the name.”

Spec. char. Imago.—Very similar to the preceding species; is rather
darker above, being a dark, dull, brassy color; the black spots on the
elytra more numerous; the thorax not so closely punctured, and
smoother, yet apparently very finely granulated. The elytra are not

E—S8

114

so distinctly striated; acuminate posteriorly, but not quite so elon-
gated as in divaricata, the tips rather blunter, and each furnished with
two sharp little spines which point backward, separating slightly at
the tips.

Length varies from a little less than five-eighths to three-fourths of
an inch; width one-third the length.

AGRILUS LATERALIS—Say.

The genus or group to which this belongs is easily distinguished
from other Buprestians by the elongate, slender and cylindrical body,
and siwall size, the largest species being less than half an inch long.

This species, which I have found in considerable numbers in the
southern part of the State, is a pretty little insect, very narrow, sub-
cylindrical, and about one-fifth of an inch inlength. The front of the
head is a dark, dull, coppery color, and the thorax of a dull, brassy
color throughout. Wing-cases narrow and nearly parallel, and black.

I have found it in considerable numbers on white and post oak-
bushes; also on various wild flowers, but I have not been able to iden-
tify the larve. Dr. Harris says that the larve of the species belong-
ing to this genus are similar in form to those of the slender cylindri-
eal saperdas, and that they have the same habits, living in the centre
of stems and devouring the pith. It is very probable, therefore, that
this, when its transformations are carefully traced, will be found
similar to the following species:

Spec. char. Imago.—The genus to which this species belongs is easi-
ly distinguished from other Buprestians by the small size, elongate,
slender and cylindrical body. This species is very narrow, sub-cylin-
drical. The front of the head is a dark, dull, coppery color, with a
deep central indentation extending from the thorax to the upper lip.
The thorax is nearly as long as it is wide, ‘somewhat widened near
the front ; rugose, and of a very decided, although dull, brassy color
throughout. Elytra narrow, nearly parallel, and black. Underside
black. Length, about one-fifth of an inch. Common in Southern
Illinois.

A RUFICOLLIS—Fabr. (The Raspberry-borers.)

This is a small, slender, sub-cylindrical species, about one-fourth of
an inch long, and scarcely more than one-fourth as wide. It has re-
ceived its name, ruficollis or red-neck, in allusion to the brilliant cop-
pery color of its head and thorax, yet there are some varieties which
have the thorax of an obscure green, while i:f others it is of the same
dark color as the wing cases.

The larva, which has been described by Mr. Walsh, is of a pale yel-
low color, about one-half an inch in length, and very narrow, the
diameter scarcely exceeding one-tenth the length, somewhat flattened,
especially at the sides; the joint next the head is about one-fourth
wider than any other, and has a somewhat horny, yellow, heart-shaped
patch above ; joints, two and three, are each about half as long as num-
ber one (the broad one), and about half the length of the following
joints, until we come to the eleventh, which is also short. The head,
which is quite small, is brown, the jaws black. A somewhat reddish
line runs along the back. The posterior extremity ends with two
brown thorns, each with three blunt teeth on the inner edge.

' 115

Ke

hy
th

Ry
i

-

The larvee sometimes prove quite destructive to raspberry and black-
berry plants by producing a kind of gall or swelling at the point
where it works its way into the pith. This swelled part, which is

usually an inch or so long, is split up into numerous short, rough,

brownish, longitudinal slits. These are placed over the burrow of the
larva, which runs around the axis of the cane, in which or in the
pith the borer may be found.

In Southern Illinois the latter part of April, but later in more
northern latitudes, it penetrates to the pith, probably to find a more
sure retreat from its insect foes, and also on account of the hardening
of, the wood of the canes. The beetle comes out in June and July,
and the female probably deposits her eggs on the young canes a week
or two later.

The only remedy which has been suggested, and, in fact, the only
one needed if attended to properly and in time, is to cut out all the
infested canes in spring, and burn them carefully before the beetle
has emerged from them. If this isdone it will prove as near a speci-
fic as any remedy which can be applied to insect pests.

Mr. Miller, of Anna, Illinois, says these borers infest the Philadel-
phia and Doolittle raspberries and the Wilson blackberry, but are
seldom found in the high-bush or royal-cane varieties. Prof. Halde-
man found them in the Antwerp raspberries also.

Spec. char. Imago.—Head and thorax of a brilliant coppery color.
The head is quite broad as compared with the thorax, which it
equals, but the length is scarcely more than a third the width, deepiy
immersed in the thorax. Form of thorax and body similar to the
preceding; the head similarly indented. The elytra are somewhat
rough, and at the tips are serrate; black or tinged with dull copper
color. There are some varieties which have the thorax of an obscure
green, while in others it is of the same dark color as the elytra.
Length about one-fourth of an inch; width but little more than one-
fourth the length.

Family ELATERID&.

The insects which belong to this family are well known by the
common names, “shipping-jacks,”’ “snapping-beetles,” etc., given
them on account of the habit they have of throwing themselves up-
wards with a sudden jerk when laid upon their backs. The hind
margin of the prosternum or front breast is prolonged backwards into
a sharp spine, which jets into a cavity formed for it in the mesoster-
num or middle breast ; but this differs from that of the preceding family
in being movable, while that is immovable. As the body is some-
what flattened and the legs short they have been provided with this
arrangement to enable them to regain their feet. The species are
usually long and narrow; the head rather small and deeply immersed
in the thorax ; in a few cases the sides of the thorax are parallel, but
usually these are more or less rounded, and the thorax narrowed in
front ; the posterior corners are prolonged backwards into sharp spines
which extend along the shoulders of the wing-cases. The wing-case
(elytra) are generally striate or grooved, and taper toward the tips.

116

The legs differ from those of the preceding family in being without
trochanters.

The larvae are elongated, cylindrical worms, the size being nearly
uniform throughout the entire length, and the indentations between
the segments very shallow.

They are generally known as “ wire-worms,” a name probably given
them on account of the long, slender, cylindrical shape of the more
common species, and the tough, leathery texture of their bodies. A
large portion of them reside in the ground, where they feed upon
the roots of plants of various kinds, such as the grasses, corn, wheat,
turnips, etc., in fact there is scarcely a product of the farm or the gar-
den which is exempt from their ravages; others are found under loose
bark and in decaying logs, stumps, etc., feeding upon the putrid wood
or the minute roots that penetrate it.

The last segment of the body varies considerably in the different
species ; in some it is conical and simply rounded at the tip ; in others
it tapers toa sharp point; in some it ends in two spines, sometimes
with little teeth on the sides, and sometimes without them. They
are of a yellowish-white color, many species being more or less shaded
with brown; they have six small legs, situated on the three front seg-
ments, the last segment has on its under side near the base a retrac-
tile pro-leg, which appears to contain the terminal orifice of the
alimentary canal. The length of time they remain in the larval state
has not been satisfactorily ascertained, being variously stated at from
two to five years; it is probable that our most common species
attain their growth in three years at most, and some of them even in
two. As the beetles are found not only in the spring and summer,
but passing the winter under bark, in the crevices of trees, and other
sheltered situations, it is probable that some are transformed in the
fall, thus ending the term of larval life in less than three years.

As the number of species belonging to this family is large and
very few have been traced through their transformations, I will de-
scribe a few of the most common and then mention the remedial
agencies which have been recommended, and add such suggestions as
I have to make in reference to the best method of getting rid of
them.

ALAUS OCULATUS—Linn.

This is a large black species measuring from one inch and a quar-
ter to one inch and a half in length, having on each side of the
thorax a large black eye-like spot, surrounded with a white line.

The larva ef this species is a long, slender, smooth, sub-cylindrical
worm, varying but little in diameter throughout its length. When
fully grown it usually exceeds two inches in length. Its general color
is a creamy yellow, with a reddish or brownish tinge in some parts ;
the head and upper side of one or more of the front segments dark-
brown ; the last segment black, having a semi-circular notch at the
end, furnished internally with little saw-like teeth; six short legs
on the first three segments.

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}

J

X

,
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117

I have frequently found this larva in much decayed logs and
stumps. Dr. Harris says he has found them in old apple trees, the
wood of which he says they eat. I do not think they are injurious.

Spec. char. Imago.—The general color black, covered in some places
with a white down, especially on the head and thorax, spots on the
elytra and on the under side. Head much narrower than the thorax;
the antenne serrate; thorax quadrate, longer than wide, with a
large, oval, velvety, black eye-like spot on each side, which is sur-
rounded by a distinct ring of white down. Elytra striate, and
sprinkled with whitish dots of down. Length from one inch and
one‘fourth to one inch and a half; width about one-third the length.

Quite a number of species belonging to this family are found in
Illinois, which are very difficult to distinguish from each other, but,
as they have a strong family likeness and very similar habits, it will
only be Lc osseanit for me to mention a few which are most frequently
met with.

ARTHOSTETHUS INFUSCATUS—Germ. (APHANOBIUS soRDIDUS—Melsh.)

Very dark brown, slightly paler toward the extremity of the ely-
tra. The frcnt of the head and thorax regularly curved downward in
front, the front margin of the head not turned up; the antennz very
strongly and distinctly serrate, the third joint longer than the sec-
ond, but shorter than the fourth. Looking at it from the side a broad
deep indenture is seen where the thorax and elytra meet. Posterior
corners of the thorax prolonged as usual into spines; the dorsal line
on the top of each spine forms a straight, sharp ridge, running ob-
liquely inward rather nearer the lateral than the posterior margin.
Scutellum oblong, regularly rounded posteriorly, upper surface
slightly concave. The first tarsal joint. of the middle and posterior
tarsi longer than the second, but scarcely as long as the second and
third taken together. The elytra terminate in a sharp point, but are
not strictly mucronate. The entire surface thickly covered with
short yellow hairs, which give the insect a dark yellowish-brown ap-
pearance. The under side black or dark-brown. Length nearly one
inch.

Found in Southern Llinois, but not abundant.

MELANOTUS FISSILIS—Say.

This species has had the misfortune to receive a number of names,
as Cratonychus brevicollis, Herbst ; Melanotus cinereus, Weber; M. sphen-
oidales, Melsh, etc. Of a uniform reddish-brown color, covered with
short, pale, yellowish hairs, which give it a dark, ashen hue when
living. Head convex, rounded on the front edge; antennae pale-red,
short, serrate. Thorax convex, not contracted near the posterior
spines; spines obtuse, with a distinct cleft or fissure just inside of
each at the base. Elytra striate, and regularly punctured. The tarsi

_ hairy and claws pectinate. Length about three-fifths of an inch.

Common throughout the State, especially where there are groves,
and in the timber sections.

118

M. coMMuNIs—Schon.

Closely resembles the last, and is not easily distinguished from it,
except by the size, which is not always a safe guide in this group. It ©
is rather a lighter brown than fissilis, and the thorax has a longitudi-
nal indentation in the middle, deepest on the anterior half. Length
about half an inch.

Common, but does not appear to be so abundant in the southern
portion of the State as fisszlis.

MonocrEPIDIUs Livipus—De G. (M. Lopatus—Say.)

General color an ash-brown, densely covered with +pale, pros-
trate hairs; when denuded of these the surface is brown.
Thorax longer than wide, minutely punctured; the posterior spines
acute and ridged above. Elytra striate, with regular stitch-like punc-
tures, the elevated lines between the grooves flattened. Legs dull
yellow, with the next to the last joint of the tarsi expanded and ex-
tended beneath the terminal joint, and blunt or very obtusely rounded
at the tip. The last character is its chief distinguishing feature.
Length half an inch.

Found in abundance in Southern Tlinois, and I presume also in the
Central and Northern portions. :

MELANCTES MORIO—F abr.

The entire surface of this insect is of a shining black color; the
mandibles have a reddish tinge in the middle and are toothed at the
tips. The head and thorax minutely and indistinctly punctured;
head slightly depressed. Thorax convex in front, flattened behind;
the posterior angles strongly spined. Scutellum oblong and rounded.
Elytra apparently smooth, marked with regular rows of fine punc-
tures. Underside a polished black. The tarsi lined beneath with a
row of yellow hairs.

Length one inch and a quarter; width three-eighths of an inch.

AGRIOTES MANCUS.

Clypeus truncated ; body punctured; thorax with an impressed line
behind the middle ; posterior angles slightly excurved.

Body black, punctured with short hair; head with large profound,
dense punctures; clypeus elevated, emarginate each side near the
antennae, and truncated before ; antennae and palpi rufous; thorax
with an impressed line behind the middle ; punctures numerous, pro-
found, equal to those of the head, but not so dense; posterior angles
prominent, very slightly excurved, carinate above, posterior edge
slightly bidentate near the middle; an elevated abbreviate line on
the posterior margin near the lateral carina; scutel entire at base ;
elytra have the punctures of the striae oblong and approximate; in-
terstitial lines with minute punctures furnishing hairs; feet reddish.

Length seven-twentieths of an inch. Inhabits Missouri.

' 119

Lupius ATTENNATUS—Melsh.

Reddish brown; head blackish, without any elevated cross line ;

antennae deeply serrated, second joint short, not longer than the third.

Thorax rounded to the front, which is not wider than the head.

- Elytra gradually attenuated from the base to the tip, which is acute ;

- striae obsolete ; tip black, occupying nearly one-third of the surface,

the front line of this color running obliquely forward and inward

- from each side to the suture.

Length nearly four-fifths of an inch. Found in the northern part
of the State. Figured without a name in Dr. LeBaron’s fourth re-
port, page 96, figure 44.

REMARKS.

The wire-worms, which do the greatest injury, are com paratively
small, varying in length, when full grown, from a little over half an
inch to an inch and a quarter, the diameter varying from the size of
a knitting-needle to that of a small quill.

Our most injurious species are probably the larve of the various
species of Melanotus and the closely allied genera, but as none of these
have been traced through their transformations, it is impossible to
pronounce with certainty on this point.

Narurat Enemres.—l am not aware that these insects are subject
to the attacks of any parasitic species of their own class. There are
a number of birds which are fond of them and afford considerable aid
in checking their increase; among these we may mention the much-
abused robin and crow, the blackbirds and thrushes; in Europe the
rook appears to be the special enemy of these worms.

Remepiges.—In Europe, where these worms have long been the
most troublesome pest with which the farmer and vegetable gardener
is troubled, various remedies have been proposed and tried, yet none
with satisfactory results. For the purpose of gratifying the curiosity,
rather than with any expectation. of benefitting our farmers, I men-
tion some of these:

Many years ago Sir Joseph Banks recommended placing pieces of
sliced potatoes over the surface of the ground as traps for them,
thereby attracting them and rendering their capture easy. It is evi-
dent that this remedy is practicable only on alimited scale, as in valu-
able vegetable gardens. Turnips, lettuce, cabbage, beets, parsnips,
carrots, or apples may be substituted for potatoes.

Applications of salt, lime, etc., to the soil have also been recom-
mended, and, it is maintained, practiced with success in many cases.
But it is more than likely that in these cases, as was suggested with
reference to the “white grub,” the applications, when followed with
good results, were made just before the great mass of the worms passed
into the pupa state. To be effectual immediately the soil must be
saturated to an extent sufficient to injure vegetation, but it is possible
if such applications are made annually, early in the spring, they may
assist in driving away the worms.

As the eggs of those that are injurious to field crops are in all
probability laid in the grass. from whence the young, as soon as
hatched, penetrate the ground, it follows that crops which are planted

120
immediately after the soil is broken up and, as is usually the case,
turned under, are especially liable to be injured by wire-worms as
well as white grubs; and this is particularly the case if these crops
are corn, wheat, or any that are closely related to the grasses.

Hon. A. B. Dickerson, as quoted by Dr. Fitch, remarks that “I have
heard it stated that five bushels of lime to the acre would destroy wire
worms. I have tried both, and have sowed ten bushels of salt to the
acre, and they only laughed at my folly. I have tried one hun-
dred bushels of lime, as recommended, and they fattened on my
bounty. I have only proved one remedy for the rascals, and that is
to break the sod and sow it to buckwheat, plow late and as often as
possible in the fall, and then sow it to peas inthe spring. With the
like lowing next fall they will not disturb any crop next season.

This, while casting doubt on saline and alkaline applications, con-
tains, in all probability, the central idea of the only true remedy—
starving them out. If, after the meadow or sod is broken up, it could
be repeatedly plowed deep and thoroughly and allowed to remain en-
tirely clean and fallow for a couple of years, it is not probable any
crop would be troubled after that for some time; but if it is necessary
to use the land, then it should be planted in some crop least likely to
serve the worms as food, and when removed the soil should be stirred
as often as possible.

While this is being done, the saline and alkaline applications, if
made once a year, would be advantageous.

And I may state here that in a large part of Illinois I am satisfied
lime will prove a most excellent fertilizer, and if used to a greater
extent than it now is would not only more than pay for the expense
in increased crops, but would also be of advantage in tending to drive
away various injurious insects.

Late fall plowing has been strongly recommended, but the results of
repeated trials lead us to doubt its efficacy; in fact, some who have
tried it without a shadow of success have been led to the other cx-
treme—that of supposing it injurious.

Sowing the ground in white mustard is strongly recommended as a
means of criving the worms away, ds it appears to be obnoxious to
them.

Guano is said to be obnoxious to them, and it is asserted that the
worms will leave the ground where it is used as a fertilizer, which I
am inclined to think more than likely if they have any delicacy of
taste whatever.

As the old prairie sod of our State and the adjoining State of Iowa ~
becomes broken up, and the native hauntsof the wire-worms disturbed,
we may expect them to become more and more trovblesome to field
crops, unless some measures are taken to eradicate them immediately
after the sod is broken.

Family PTINIDA.

This family, for which we have nocommon English name, contains
a number of minute species of beetles which often prove very injur-

121
.

- jous, but in widely different situations, some boring into the branches
of our fruit trees, others into wooden furniture, or penetrating our
books, while others enter the larder and ruin our nice bacon hams
which we have preserved with so much care; while others enter the
museum and cabinet and feed upon the specimens carefully pinned
and arranged, and others even attack our clothes.

The head is small and often deeply immersed in the thorax, and
in some species the thorax is bent down so as to cover the head when
seen from above. Few of the species exceed a quarter of an inch in
length, while most are much less, some being less than half that
length. They are usually of a cinnamon-brown color, sometimes
black, and sometimes ornamented with light or whitish scales.

Prinus FUR—Linn.

The genus is known by having the head and thorax much narrower
than the elytra; the antenne are about as long as the body, filiform,
not enlarged or branched. This species, which is about one-sixth of
an inch long, may be known from the rest of the genus by its dusky
color, but its clothing of down gives it a light brown appearance ; the
head is reddish-brown; eyes black. There are four transverse tuber-
cles on the thorax. Wing-cases with two whitish bands across them.

The larva resembles in form, the grub of the chafers heretofore
described, having the head small and the posterior end of the body
somewhat enlarged, the last segment being larger than the others ;
the back is wrinkled. It usually assumes the curved position of those
grubs, has six feet, two on each of the first three segments. Length
from one-fifth to one-fourth of an inch; thickness about one-fourth
the length; of a whitish or creamy color, and sparsely covered with
minute hairs.

These larvae attack museums, and have been known to attack
clothes. The larvae of other species of the same genus are fre-
quently found boring into the wood of out-houses, frame houses and
furniture.

Spec. char. Imago.—Antennae filiform; about as long as the
body ; head and thorax much narrower than the elytra, the thorax
much narrower behind than in front; elytra obovate, being narrower
in front than near the posterior portion. Fuscous, clothed with an
ashy down; head furruginous; eyes black ; thorax with four trans-
verse fasciae, the back channeled. Scutellum gray or ashy. LElytra
rather dusky, with two interrupted whitish bands, one a little bent
toward or nearest the base, the other near the apex ; the disk crenate-
striate. Legs rusty-brown or reddish; thighs elongate-clavate ; an-
tennae reddish or rusty, longer in the males than in the females.

Length one-eighth to one-sixth of an inch,

122

Pr. BRUNNEUS—Durfs. (Pp FRONTALIS—Melsh.)
i 9
we a Is a somewhat smaller spe-
cies than Pt. fur., being only
about one-eighth of an inch
long; is of a dark-brown color,
quite convex above ; the thorax
somewhat narrowed posterior-
ly, being narrower next the
wing cases than in front;
densely covered with minute
hairs. The larva, which is
similar to that of Pt. fur, has
been observed by Mr. Shinner

a, ANOBIUM PANICEUM, Fab.: b, its antenne; ¢, pi eoatals books by boring into
PTINUS BRUNNEUs, Duris. them, preferring leather-bound
or half-bound books, along the back of which they usually run their
furrows, just beneath their binding. It will also burrow into cork,
and reside in it for months. Mr. Shinner says that in the northern
part of this state they come to the perfect state in April or May.

Spec. char. Imago.—Similar to Pt. fur, but is distinguished from that
species by being wholly of a light-brown color, and destitute of the
whitish bands on the elytra.

Sereonmnant a

ile =. ‘
Py. cwreveory aa
sand as
-) cy a mm ss
pace Be BS

ANOBIUM (SITODREPA) PANICEUM—Linn.

Is nore or less cylindrical or globular; the antennae have the three
last joints enlarged and somewhat serrate ; the head is much narrow-
er than the body ; it is brownish and clothed with a fine pubescence,
and delicately striated or marked with longitudinal lines or furrows
composed of minute punctures; antennae and legs brownish red.
Length about one-eighth to one-tenth of an inch; width about half
the length.

The larva is somewhat hairy—but less so than the larva of the
preceding species—of a yellowish-white color; six feet, and is curved
so that it cannot walk on a smooth surface ; considerably wrinkled on
the sides. Feeds on bread—especially stale bread—crackers and
various spices, and, in fact, on all such substances, apparently thriv-
ing as well on capsicum as on wheat or barley bread. When fully
grown they usually form a cocoon.

These insects have the power of producing that peculiar sound like
the ticking of a watch, which has given them the name of “Death
Watches.” It is made by striking their hard mandibles against some
hard substance. There is another insect belonging to an entirely dif-
ferent order (Neuroptera) which produces the same sound and which
is quite common in Southern Illinois in warm damp weather.

The remedy for preserving insect cabinets against the attacks of
these and other species, will be found under the general direction.

To preserve books, the best plan is to take them down frequently
from the shelves and strike them down sharply on a table, which not

123

only tends to free them from dust, but also assists in driving away the:

injurious insects. If they have obtained a lodgement, they must be

hunted out and killed, or the books must be spread and placed in a
vessel where they can be fumugated with something that will destroy
the larve.

Spec. char Imago.—Antennae simple, filiform, having the three ter-

‘minal joints elongate. Ovate, ferruginous ; slightly pubescent ; eyes:

black. Thorax convex, width behind about equal to the elytra, nar-
rowed in front; equally and finely punctured, a median line usually
distinct, and a narrow fovea or impressed line each side near the hind
margin. flytra convex, outer margins parallel over half their
length, then regularly rounded to the apex ; clothed with an evident
pubescence, delicately striated, the striae composed of minute punc-
tures, the interstices flat and finely rugulose. Antennae and legs
rusty-red.

Length from one-tenth to one-eighth of an inch.

Bostricuus (AMPHICERUS) BICAUDATUS.— Say.

The group to which this belongs is distinguished by the oblong
eylindrical body, the thorax being about as broad as the elytra; both
extremities blunt, the head being hid beneath the blunt, rounded
thorax which extends forward so as to cover the former. The anten-
nae are rather short and terminated by three enlarged joints. The
grubs are white, fleshy, furnished with six feet, wrinkled on the back
and similar to the preceding. They are generally a little the largest
in front, tapering slightly and gradually posteriorly, and coiled in a
semi-circular form.

This-species is of a reddish-brown color, the thorax being quite
dark—almost black in some specimens. The head is small, not ex-
tending in front of the hood-like thorax. The thorax has the ante-
rior half, especially the front slope, covered with spinelike points.
The elytra are slightly granulated, paler than the thorax ; the tips
suddenly bent down, from each of which (in the males) extends back-.
ward a sharp spine; in the female, instead of the spine, is a smooth
prominence. The underside a very dark-brown. Length nearly three-
eighths of an inch, width about one-third the length.

These insects in the perfect state gnaw into the twigs, always se-
lecting the axil of a bud or little branch as the point of operation.
Although their attacks, in this stage, appear to be directed against
apple trees, and especially the young trees, yet they are by no means
confined to these but are found depredating upon other trees, as the:
peach and hickory, and even upon grape-vines. Professor Riley thinks:
the Benoni and red June apple trees are more subject to their attacks
than other varieties. The transformations of this species do not ap-
pear to have been carefully studied. Iam inclined to think the
larva works in the hickory—that it is a borer cannot be doubted and
I have found a larva working in the hickory which most certainly be-
longs to this genus and does not correspond in its operations to the:
following which bores in the hickory.

Spec. char. Imago.— Antenne rather short and slender terminating in
three enlarged serrate joints. Dark, reddish-brown, almost black on

.

124

the thorax. Head small, not advanced beyond the hood of the thorax ;
the mouth furnished with a fringe of yellowish hairs; antenne a
dusky red, the three terminal joints much larger than the others, and
bead-like. The thorax quadrate in outline, suddenly bent down in
front and somewhat so behind, the anterior half, especially the frontal
‘declivity, is covered with spine-like points which next the lateral!
front angles become recurved spines. Elytra shagreened or granu-
lated, paler than the thorax, the shoulders with an external smooth
prominence ; the tips suddenly bent or curved downward, at which
point (in the males) a sharp spine extends backwards from the wing-
case (in the females), a smooth tubercle. The underside a very dark
brown.

Length nearly three-eighths of an inch; width one-eighth of an
inch.

B. (SINoxYLON) BASILARIS—Say.

[Fig. 13.]

Has the body black; antenne
and palpi (or mouth feelers) red
or reddish; the thorax is spined in
front somewhat as bicaudatus with the
angles rounded; the wing-cases
marked with large dense punctures,
which are more dilated toward the
tip, alarge red spot on the base, each

‘ ... Wing-case has three spines at the tip;
a ea ee its CT eae see black ; nab punctured he
neath. Length one-fifth of an inch. G

This species is not found as often in the perfect state as the preced-
ing, vet it is probably as injurious; but its depredations are done in
the larval instead ofthe perfect state. Professor Riley, who has
traced it through its transformations, informs us that the larva is a
yellowish, wrinkled, arched grub with a very small head; _ havy-
ing the first three joints swollen and furnished with six small legs.
It has been found boring into the heart of grape stems; it also bores
into the trunk of the shag-bark hickory, and the trunk and main
branches of apple and peach trees.

No remedy has been suggested for this species, except burning the
infested wood.

Spec. char. Imago.—Antenne rather short and slender, terminating
in three enlarged serrate joints; tarsiapparently four-jointed ; thorax
sharply tuberculated in front, concealing the head beneath the hood-
like extension ; quadrate in form; separated from the elytra by a very
short peduncle. Body black; eyes prominent; antenne and palpi
reddish ; scutellum minute and round. Elytra with large, dense
punctures, which are more dilated toward the tip; a large reddish spot
on the middle next the base; tip retuse, with three teeth at the outer
corner; wings black; tibie and tarsi dusky-red. Length about one-
fifth of an inch.

Larva.—Color yellowish. Body smooth, arched and wrinkled trans-
versely. Thoracic joints much enlarged, the prothoracic being slightly

a

ry
:
a

a
¥

125

horny at the anterior margin above. Six setous legs carried forward

close to the body, the first pair bent closely to the head, the second
pair longer and straight, the third pair short. Stigmata 9, and very
difficult to detect. Head small, horny, rounded, rather darker than
the body; antennz conspicuous, three-jointed ; epistoma dark-brown,

not as wide as labrum, labrum dark-brown, rounded, covered and
_ fringed with stiff hairs; mandibles stout, jet black, triangular, edges

entire, maxille very small, with an elongated basal piece, and an
inner lobe covered with hair; maxillary palpi with two indistinct
joints ; labium iuconspicuous, with no palpi apparent. Length 0.30
inch (Riley).

Section II. HETEROMERA.

This section, as heretofore stated, includes all of those species which
have the anterior and middle tarsi or feet five-jointed and the hind
pair four-jointed. It containsa number of small families, yet there
are but few of the species which trouble the agriculturist, and those
which we shall mention belong to the family Meloidz.

Family MELOID. (Blistering-beetles. )

The only species belonging to this family that are injurious to the
agriculturist are the well known potato-beetles, not the Colorado
potato-beetle which caused such alarm of late years, but the ash-col-
ored, black, and striped beetles. The species belonging to this family
are distinguished chiefly by the following characters: The head is
as wide as the thorax, which is narrower than the wing-cases; the
body is rather soft, and the wing-cases are thin and flexible; the claws
of the feet are deeeply cleft.

The larvee usually reside in the nests of various kinds of bees, es-
specially those of humble bees; they appear to be parasitic upon the
bodies of the young bees. But those of the following species, accord-
ing to Riley, reside in the ground and feed upon various roots.

It is only in the perfect state that they are injurious to vegetation.

EpicauTa vitTatTa. Fab. (Lytra virtata). Striped Potato Beetle.

[Fig. 14.] This well known species, which varies in length from
half to two-thirds of an inch, is elongate and slender in
form and sub-cylindrical, differing very materially in this
respect from the Colorado potato beetle. The thorax is nar-
rower than the wing cases or abdomen, it tapers forward,
so that it is distinctly narrower in front than the head; it
is rather longer than wide. The elytra are about twice as
wide at the shoulders as the thorax, round at the tips.

: % Length of the insect about three times its greatest width.
It is of a dull orange or reddish yellow color above, with two black
spots on the head, two black stripes on the thorax, and two black

126

stripes on each wing case. The outer stripe on the wing cases is
broader than the inner one, extends further back, and is frequently
divided into two stripes by a narrow. yellow or orange line. The an-
tenn, legs and under side of the body are black, but more or less cov-
ered with grayish down.

Although this species is met with as far north and east as New
England, yet it is more of a southern species than either of the
following, and is much more numerous in the Middle and Western
States than in the Eastern or Northern.

This species appears oecasionally in great numbers in parts of Illi-
nois and Missouri, proving as injurious to the potatoes in the area
it embraces as the Colorado potato beetle. Fortunately its attacks
appear to be limited, as a rule, to rather small areas, never spreading
over such a vast extent as the other.

It has been asserted that it eats all other potato tops in preference
to the peach-blows; but such apparent preferences are generally acci-
dental and cannot be relied upon asa rule.

EPICAUTA CINEREA. Forst. (LytrA MARGINATA. Fabr.) The Marg-
ined Blister Beetle.

This species varies considerably in size, is usually slightly larger
than the preceding, averaging three-fifths to three-fourths of an inch
‘in length, similar in form but different in color. The ground color is
black, the head and thorax are thickly covered with gray down, usu-
ally with a black spot on the upper side of each; the wing cases are
black with a narrow gray margin running entirely round each; the
legs and underside of the body are grayish. This and the previous
species have the second joint of the naale antenne shorter than the
third.

It usually feeds upon certain wild plants, but is occasionally found
on potato vines. I found it quite abundant on wild plants near Bloom-
ington in 1875.

MAcROBASIS UNICoLoR. Kirby. The Ash-gray Blister Beetle.

This species is rather more slender than the preceding, about half
an inch in length, and of uniform ash-gray color, except the antennx
and legs, which are black; the ash color is given to it by a thick cover-
ing of grayish down. It isalso further characterized by having the
second joint much longer than the third, the first and second joints
both being elongated. There is a black variety.

It is a northern species, and attacks not only the patato but also
the honey-locust and several varieties of beans, as the English or
Windsor and early snap. It is common on the wild indigo weed.

Remepies—Brushing them from the potato plants intoa vessel con-
taining sonie liquid, and then killing them. is perhaps the most effec-
tual remedy against these species. If caught in nets and killed by
casting them in scalding water and then dried, they may afterwards
be used for blistering purposes, and are equally effectual when thus
used as the imported Spanish ily. As they fly less of a morning or

—-.

127

_ evening than in the heat of the day, this is the proper time to gather

them, us it can be done most effectually. Driving them during the
heat of the day into windrows of hay or straw and then setting fire
to these has been recommended and tried in some instances with suc-
cess. Prof. Riley says the Peach Blow potato is less liable to attack
than the other varieties, and recommends planting it. As these in-
sects appear rather late in the season, the early varieties of the potato
will be more likely to escape their attacks.

Section III. TETRAMERA.

Apparently four joints in all the feet; the joints dilated and brush-
like onthe underside, with the next to the last joint usually two-
lobed. This section contains a very large number of injurious spe-
cies ; in fact, more than belong to all the other sections combined. To
thissection belong the snout-beetles or weevils, the long-horned wood-
borers, the short-horned wood-borers, the chrysomelians or plant-
beetles, the flea-beetles, tortoise-beetles, ete.

Family BRUCHID.®. (Pea and Bean Weevils.)

This family contains but few species, all small, none of them reach-
ing a quarter of an inch inlength. They have the front part of the
head but slightly prolonged in front, and are thus easily distinguished
frova the curculios, which ere the true snout-beetles. They differ
from the chrysomelians in the short serrate antennae, and in having
the tip of the abdomen exposed. The body is somewhat oval or egg-
shaped, each wing case being rounded at the tip; the hind legs are
usually longer than the others and the thighs much swolen; the
head is bent abruptly downward, and the antennae are 11-jointed.

The larvae are short, thick, curved or arched, footless grubs with
small heads. Their depredations are confined, so far as known, to
pod-bearing plants, one usually occupying the interior of a pea or
seed, where it lives and undergoes its transformations.

Brucuus (Mylabris) prst—Linn. (The Pea-weevil.)

Siesta This little beetle, which is usually
known as the pea-bug, is about one-eighth
of an inch long, of a rusty-black color,
with spots and partial bands of gray; the
tip of the abdomen white, with two very
distinct black spots; a very indistinct
whitish band a little in front of the mid-
dle of each wing-case, and a very distinct
oblique white band on each behind the
middle.
Brvcnvs Pist, Linn.:—a, beetle en- About the month of June, or as soon as
larged, the small outline showing the young peas in the pod begin to form

natural size; b, a pea from which -
the beetle has escaped. and swell, the female deposits her eggs on

ft
‘hen lo
Pai

‘ : aes j
Hg) “Mayet

128

the outside of the pod. These are about one-thirtieth of an inch
long, quite narrow, and yellow. The depositing is usually done at
night, but occasionally in cloudy weather. The young larva is of a
deep yellow color similar to the egg; it cuts directly through the pod
to the pea within, into which it penetrates and there takes up its
abode. It feeds upon the marrow or albuminous portion of the pea,
being careful not to eat the germ, probably, as has been suggested,
because it is distasteful to it; and before entering upon the pupa
state gnaws a passage way to the surface, leaving only a thin hull as
a covering, by which the insect is enabled to escape. As a general
rule the perfect insect dees not leave the peas until the following
spring, and often until they are planted.

REMEDIES AND PREVENTIVES.—One obvious means of preventing their
increase is to take care that the peas planted are free from the beetle,
and to this end those intended for this purpose should be carefully
examined. If they are infested there will appear a little spot over
the mouth of the burrow made for their egress; if the covering is off
it is pretty good evidence the beetle has escaped. If thrown into
water the sound ones, as is. well known, will generally sink, while
the unsound ones will swim.

Enclosing the peas for a time in tight vessels with camphor, is
practiced by some as a method of killing the beetle. Throwing them
for a short time into hot water before planting, a method recom-
mended by Latreille, is sometimes adopted. A third, and probably
the most effective method, if universally practiced, would be that
originally suggested by Deane ; that is, to keep the peas intended for
planting over the second year, enclosed in some vessel from which the
beetles, when they leave the peas, cannot escape. By this method
the beetles in the peas so preserved must, as a matter of course,
perish ; but care should be taken to keep them in a dry situation.
As the beetle appears somewhat late in the season, late sown peas are
much less subject to their attacks than those sown early.

Spec. char. Imago.—Head and front part of the thorax densely
covered with gray down; eyes dark-brown or black ; the apical or en-
larged portion of the antennae dark-gray, with a short dusky stripe
on each side on the posterior portion, and a square denuded space be-
tween them next the hind border. Elytra finely striate, with alter-
nating spots and stripes of black and gray; an oblique white stripe
on each wing case behind the middle. The exposed tip of the abdo-
men covered with white down, with two large black spots on the cen-
tral portion. Underside dark ash-brown. The notch on the under-
side of the hind thighs near the tip, very distinct. Length from
three to four-twentieths of an inch.

This is the common pea weevil or “pea-bug.”

Brucuus oBsoLEtus, Say. (B. fabae, Riley.) Bean Weevil.

The general color is a brownish-gray, the ground color being dark,
but covered with a pale pubesence it gives the general color men-
tioned. This is much smaller than the pea-weevil, its length being
one-ninth or tenth of an inch.

129

_ The larvae of this weevil are similar in appearance to those of the
_ pea weevil, but are smaller, and instead of only one being found in a
_ bean, Prof. Riley informs us that he has found over a dozen. These,
as a matter of course, form different channels for the exit of the per-
_ fectinsect. They have, as appears to be the case with all these wee-
_ vils, the habit of leaving the germ untouched, so that the infested
pane will sprout and grow the same as those which are free from
them.

This species has seldom been troublesome in this State, and does
not appear to be generally distributed.

It is proper for me to state that Prof. Riley contends that thisis not
B. obsoletus of Say, but a distinct species which he has named B. fabe,
or bean weevil; but I have followed Crotch’s Check-List, considering
the two as one species.

Spec. char. Imago. — Grayish-brown; head yellowish-gray ; jaws
dark-brown ; pulpi black; antennae reddish at the base ; aprical por-
tion dark-brown or black; terminal joint sometimes pale-reddish ;
thorax unspotted, but a paler middle line sometimes visible. Elytra
with alternating longitudinal lines of dull yellowish and dusky,
though these are sometimes almost or quite obliterated.

BrucuHwts GRANARIUs. Linn. The Grain Bruchus of Europe.

I add here a description of this troublesome weevil, which has re-
_cently been imported from Europe, and in course of time will proba-
bly spread throughout our country. In England they are very de-
structive to peas and beans, and are very similar in appearance to our
common pea-weevil.

Spec. char. Imago.—Black or dark gray; antenne at the base and
the anterior legs reddish; the lateral margins of the thorax some-
what sinuate but not dentate, the central portion covered with
pale pubescence, with two white spots; also near the base a tri-
angular white spot. Elytra varied with white or gray ordark. Apex
of the abdomen ashy white, sometimes with two black spots, some-
times without them; femora dentate or notched.

Length from one eighth to three twentieths of an inch.

REeMEDIES.—The remedies applicable to one of these species are
generally applicable to the others. Heating the beans or peas while
the larvee are in them is the most certain method of destroying them.
This may be done by imersing in hot water, or by hot steam or hot
air, care being taken not to destroy the vitality of the seed.

CURCULIONID.—(Snout weevils or Curculios.

_ This family is one of the most numerous in species of any belong-
ing to the order, all of which are more or less injurious to vegetation.
Their bodies are always of an oval form, never being very much

elongated or depressed. The front part of the head is more or less

_ elongated into a distinct snout, sometimes short and broad, but some-

_timesit is as long as the body, and almost as slender as a hair.

E—8

a

130

Their feet are clothed on the underside with a.dense brush of stiff,
short hair, and the next to the last joint is distinctly divided into
two lobes. Usually the antennae are bent or elbowed, the first joint
being much longer than the others and forming an angle with
them.

The larve are soft, white grubs, destitute of feet, with minute head,
and usually lying in acurved position. They usually reside in the
fruits, seeds or nuts of plants, or in galls formed on the stems or roots,
yet there is no part of the plant which is wholly exempt from their
attacks.

When the female is about to deposit her eggs she first makes a
puncture with her snout.

The family has been divided into two sections, which are distin-
guished from each other chiefly by the character of the snout and
position of the antenne.

Section 1.—Brevrirostes—(Short snouts.)

Snout short and broad, seldom much longer than the head, the fur-
rows on the sides of the head for the reception of the antennae ex-
tending to the tip of the snout ; antennae inserted at or near the tip
of the snout.

Section 2.—Lonerrostes—(Long-snouts. )

Snouté usually much longer than the head, narrow and cylindrical;
furrows rarely reaching to the tip; antennae usually inserted ata
greater or less distance from the end, generally near the middle and
sometimes at the base.

BREVIROSTRES—(Short-snouts. )

ITHYCERUS NOVEBORACENSIS—Forst. (New York Weevil.)

(Fig. 15.]

Thisspecies is one of the largest weevil found in our
State, being rather more than half and sometimes
five-eighths of an inch long, including the snout.
The insect is short and slightly widened at the
tip; the antenne are straight, not elbowed, as is
usual in the family; the thorax is much narrower
than the wing cases, and cylindrical. The general
color is a dark ash-gray, with faint, whitish lines; .
i:() on the wing cases there are numerous raised sharp
4 - black points.

. In the perfect state it occasionally troubles the
horticulturist, killing the twigs by gnawing off
the tender bark in the early part of the season
before the buds have put forth, and, as stated by
Prof. Riley, later in the year it destroys the ten-
der shoots which start out from the old wood by
entirely devouring them. It eats the buds and
Inuyerrvs wowrporacy. eduently gnaws off the leaves after they have
sis, Forster—a, sht made in expanded. It appears to prefer the apple, but
oak twig by female for de- also attacks the peach, plum, pear and cherry in

positing her eggs; 6, larva;
¢, beetle. the same way.

a

s-

131

Professor Riley has ascertained that it breeds in the twigs and ten-
der branches of the bur-oak, and probably in those of the pignut
hickory. The larve soon after hatching are usually of a pale yellow
color, head brownish.

_As they drop readily when disturbed, they may be collected by jar-
ring the trees and catching them in sheets. But it is not likely they
will ever prove very troublesome.

Spec. char. Imago.—F ront of the head and snout strongly deflexed, but
not vertical. Snout narrowest just in front of the eyes, widened at the
tip; a distinct, somewhat sharp, carina or ridge along the middle,
which divides near the tips, and isasmooth shining black. The
thorax is cylindrical or barrel-shaped, wider than the head, but much
narrower than the elytra, width about equal the length; thickly
punctured and finely granulated. Elytra squarely truncate at the
base, the shoulder almost right angled; sides nearly or quite parallel
two-thirds their length; striate, regularly and deeply punctured in
the striz or grooves, of which there are ten on each wing-case; on
each there are from twelve to sixteen black spiney points or sharp
tubercles. The general color is ash-gray, which is given it chiefly by
an ashy down with which it is covered. On the thorax there is a faint
median line of white, also on each side next the posterior margin two
oblique lines of the same color. On each wing-case there are three or
four more or less distinct whitish lines, occupying interstriate spaces.
These whitish lines are sometimes almost obsolete. The underside is
dark, but thickly covered with short whitish hairs which give it an
ashen color. Length as given above.

EpIcAERUS IMBRICATUS. Say. (Imbricated Snout-beetle.)

This species, whose general color is a dull, silvery-white, with
brown or dark markings, is confined chiefly to the west side of the
Mississippi River. As it is frequently found in Missouri and Iowa I
have introduced it here that our orchardists may know it if they
should meet with it. Its history is not known, as it has never been
traced through its transformations. In the perfect state it sometimes
does more or less injury to apple and cherry trees, and to gooseberry
bushes according to Professor Riley, by gnawing the twigs and fruits.
I have not observed it at any point in this State, yet I presume it will
be met with occasionally.

Spec. char. Imago.— Body covered with dense, minute, some-
what imbricated scales above, dusky, brassy or blackish, punc-
tured ; head with a profound puncture between the eyes; rostrum with
a dusky line in the middle; thorax has a dorsal, slightly impressed,
punctured line, and several dilated, indented punctures, covered with
scales ; a dilated, cinereous, dorsal line; elytra with very slightly im-
pressed stris, containing profoundly impressed punctures, sides and
tip white; the latter exhibiting an undulated outline above; three
sub-equidistant, equal, white spots each side of the suture, and an-
other at the middle of the base; an oblique line from behind the hu-
merus terminates at the middle.

Length three-tenths of an inch.

132

PANDELETIEUS HILARIS—Herbst. (Gray-sided curculio.)

According to Dr. Harris, this is a little, pale brown beetle, varie-
gated with gray on the sides; its snout is short, broad and slightly
furrowed in the middle; there are three blackish stripes on the
thorax, between which are two of a light gray color; the wing covers
have a broad stripe of light gray on the outer side, edged with a
slender blackish line, and sending two short oblique branches almost
across each wing-case; and the fore legs are much larger than the
others. The length of this insect varies from one-eighth to one-fifth of
an inch. The larva lives in the trunks of the white oak, on which
the beetles may be found about the last of May and the beginning of
June.

LONGIROSTRES. (Long-snout beetles.)

The species belonging to this section are distinguished by the
elongate snout, which is cylindrical and decidedly narrower and
longer than the head, and by having the antenne inserted near its
tip. The body is generally elongate and almost cylindrical, and coy-
ered with a fine dust or powder, usually of a bluish or orange color,
which is easily rubbed off.

MaGDALIS ARMICOLLIs—Say. (Elm-tree curculio.)

(Fig. 17.] This species, which isof a reddish
Oe ee or rusty color, is about one-fifth of
(Q 9) an inch long, and is distinguished
o\ & chiefly by having small spines at
CA |S the front angles of the thorax. The
# |larvee inhabit the elm, but farther
than this nothing, so far as I am
aware, is known of its history, but it
doubtless is similar in its habits to

’ M. olyra—Herbst—which inhabits
MAGDALINUS OLYRA—4, larva; b, pupa. the oak, burrowing beneath the bark,
where, according to Dr. Packard, it may be found in May in all its
stages. The larva of the latter species, which is probably similar to
the former, is a footless grub (as are all the larve of the curculios),
with the first three segments somewhat larger than the others.

Spec. Char. Imago.—Body rufous; anterior thoracic angles, with
small spines. Body reddish or rusty, punctured; head punctured; an
obsolete impression between the eyes; a dilated, impressed, abbre-
viated line over the insertion of the antennz, sometimes obsolete or
wanting; thorax with much dilated, confluent punctures; a polished
longitudinal line near the middle; anterior angles with small, erect
spines, of which the anterior one is the largest; posterior angles
slightly excurved, anterior and lateral margins dull rufous; elytra
light rufous, profoundly striated ; strie with approximate punctures ;
thighs with a robust spine beneath,near the tip. Length from the
eyes to the tip of the elytra one-fifth of an inch.

Thorax, and beneath, excepting the feet, black. Very closely allied
to Magdalis barbita (Say), a species which is entirely black, whereas
the elytra of the armicollis are always rufous.

5

135

HyLopius pALES,—Herbst. (Pales weevil.)

This species is of a deep chestnut-brown or black color, with
whitish spots or partial bands on the wing-cases, and about one-third
of an inch in length. The thighs are toothed on the under side, and
the snout, which is about as long as the thorax, is bent down perpen-
dicularly, or nearly so.

The larvee, which are similar to those of other weevils, live in pine
trees beneath the bark, burrowing into and destroying the inner sur-
face of the bark, and the tender, newly-formed wood, often doing
much damage in pine forests. Wilson, the ornithologist, who has
described the destructive operations of this species in the forests of
South Carolina, suggests the protection and preservation of the wood-
pecker as a means of counteracting it, as they hunt for and destroy
vast numbers.

Spec. char. Imago.—Snout nearly straight, directed perpendicularly
downwards; slender, cylindrical, and very nearly equal in size
throughout; very slightly enlarged at the tip. Antenne with the
basal joint as long as the rest of the antenne; strongly elbowed, and
the club at the end somewhat globular; inserted near the tip of the
rostrum. Thorax cylindrical, smaller in front than behind, expanded
and dilated in the middle, slightly narrower than the elytra; dis-
tinctly and closely punctured ; a slight median line visible. Elytra
slightly rounded at the shoulders; striate, with large regular punc-
tures in the striae, of which there are eleven on each wing case.
Tibiae with a distinct spur or spine at the tip. General color a dark-
brown, almost black, with three obscure, interrupted, oblique, whitish
lines on each wing case, which run from the inner margin, behind
the middle, outward and forward toward the outer margin; there is
also an indistinct whitish line in advance of these, which runs from
the middle of the anterior line mentioned, forward and inward toward
the inner margin; these lines are more or less interrupted, and ap-
pear to be made up of quadrate whitish dots. Under side dark, with
numerous minute short pale hairs. ‘

PissopEs stropI—Peck. (White-pine weevil.)

[Fig. 18.] This is of a rusty-brown color, the
‘ thorax being darker than the wing-cases,

GA with a minute white dot usually present
cS on each side; there is a grayish-white
Pte spot on each wing-case behind the mid-
He dle; length one-fourth to one-third of an
fOsy inch; the snout is rather longer than
» the thorax and curved obliquely down-
é ; & ward. This species often proves very
P¥SsSODES STROEI—a, larva; b° pupa. destructive to pine trees. The eggs, ac-
cording to Prof. Peck, are deposited upon the leading shoots of the
pine, probably immediately under the outer bark. The larve hatched
therefrom bore into the wood, in which they reside during the pre-
paratory stages; just before entering the pupa state they gnaw a pas-
sage from the interior to the outer bark, through which the beetle
may escape. ‘These make their appearance during September and
October. This is its method of attacking the white pine, to which it

134

proves most injurious; it also attacks other pines in the same manner
as the preceding species.

The most effectual remedy against the increase of these weevils, ac-
cording to Prof. Peck, is tocut off the shoot in August (perhaps it would
be best to do this somewhat earlier, as the last of June or the first of
July), and burn it.

Prof. Riley says it is not met with in the West, but I find it in my
list of Illinois species in the 4th vol., Trans. Ill. S. Agl. Repts., under
the name P. nemorensis—Germ.—which is a synonym. I have there-
fore inserted it, as it may possibly be found injuring cultivated pines.

Spec. char. Imago.—Snout quite slender, cylindrical, equal in size
throughout, directed downward nearly perpendicularly, slightly
curved, and a little longer than head and thorax; thorax cylindrical,
much narrower in front than behind, dilated in the middle, with a
depression each side near the front; posterior portion nearly as wide
as the elytra; a minute median carina. Elytra squarely truncate in
front; sides nearly parallel for two-thirds their length, abruptly de-
pressed near the tip; striate, and punctured in the striae, of which
there are ten on each wing-case; the inter-spaces between the second
and third, fourth and fifth, and sixth and seventh striz or grooves
(counting from the suture outwards) are rather broader than the
others, and elevated, and the sutural margin is elevated, forming
slight, longitudinal ridges. Head and thorax dark-brown; elytra
brown, with two rounded yellowish-brown spots on each wing-case—
one near the base and the other near the middle—also a white spot
on each behind the middle, near the inner margin. Brown beneath
and covered with white down. Length as given above, width about
one-third the length.

BALANINUS NAsIcus—Say. (The Long-snouted Nut-weevil.)

[No, -17.J This species is readily distinguished from any of those
f already mentioned, by its long, slender snout—this is
P slender as a bristle and about twice as long as the entire
body in the one now before me—it is usually only about
twice the length of the thorax, and is distinctly and
somewhat strongly curved downwards toward the tip.

It isa dark brown color, but the thorax’ is sparsely
| and the wing-covers densely covered, especially toward
& the tips with yellow hair, thereby giving it a rusty yel-
low appearance.

A This is supposed to be the weevil that attacks the

Baranrnus hazel-nut, in which it spends its larval state.

NASICUS.

Spec, char. Imago.—Snout very long, nearly equal to the length of the
body,and very slender and cylindrical, almost as fine as a bristle, strong-
ly curved, somewhat deflexed. Thorax cone-shaped, much narrowed in
front, and slightly dilated in the middle; considerably narrower be-
hind than the elytra. Elytra broadest in front and tapering poste-
riorly;.the shoulders very prominent ; strize numerous and very slen-
der, punctured very minutely. Posterior tibia suddenly enlarged at
the tip. Snout dark reddish-brown, naked ; thorax and elytra covered
thickly with short, depressed rusty yellowish hairs, palest near the

SEs ee aes

135

posterior extremity. The length, exclusive of the snout, is about one-
ae an inch; width across the base of the elytra about half the
ength.

ANTHONOMUS QUADRIGIBBUS. Say. (Apple-curculio).

pe 2 This curculio is readily distinguished

- by the following characters: It is usu-
ally of a uniform rusty brown, but occa-
sionally the thorax and front portion of
the wing-cases are ask-gray; four tuber-
cles on the wing-cases, two oneach, sit-
uated on the posterior half on a line nearly
parallel with the middle suture; the
snout varies in length from half to the
length of the body according to the sex.
Length, exclusive of the snout, from a
i-.little over one-twentieth to two-twen-

* a . o
ANTHONOMUS, 4-GIBBUs, Say. Apple- |. z 4
eurculio; a, natural size ; b, c, side and tieths of an inch. From Professor Riley,

oe who has studied the preparatory states

of this species, we learn the following facts: The female punctures
the fruit with her snout, enlarging the incision at the bottom, and
having deposited an egg, thrusts it to the bottom, I presume, as does
the plum curculio, with her snout. Thisegg is about four-hundredths
of an inch long, the diameter being about one-third the length, and ofa
yellowish color. As soon as the larva is hatched it usually goes to the
heart of the fruit and feeds around the core, producing a rust-red ex-
crement. When fully grown it is about two-fifths of an inch in
length, soft and white, curved and transversely wrinkled, largest in
the middle; head almost perpendicular, yellowish-brown with darker
mandibles; it has no bristles like the larva of the plum eurculio ex-
cept a few weak ones on the first joint beneath; a bluish line is some-
times visible along the back; is footless.

Unlike the plum curculio this species undergoes its transformations
in the fruit it inhabits, which does not prematurely fall as is usual
with that infested by the plum curculio or the codling-moth worm.’

The wild crab appears to be its favorite fruit, but it also attacks the
cultivated apple, occasionally doing considerable injury ;—the pear
also appears to be subject to its attacks.

It appears to be more common in the Southern part of the State
than the Central or Northern portions.

It winters in the perfect or beetle state, and makes its appearance
and commences work about the latter part of May and from that time
probably until July.

So far no sufficient experiments appear to have been made in refer-
ence to remedies suggested to enable us to decide in regard to their
value. Ifthe infested fruit could be gathered and destroyed, this
would probably afford the most effectual remedy, unless it can be as-
certained that some varieties are not subject to their attacks.

Spec. char. Imago.—Snout long, nearly equal in length to the body,
slender and cylindrical, and apparently slightly striate above ; anten-
nae which are elbowed and clubbed at the end as usual, are inserted

136

n front of the middle of the snout. Thorax narrowed in front, wide-
behind, slightly expanding in the middle, narrower behind than
the elytra. General color, a dull rust color varied with whitish.
Three indistinct longitudinal whitish lines, on the thorax, one med-
ian, and one on each side. Elytra with double series of punctures,
the intersitial lines alternately elevated, the two inner ones on each
wing-case have on them two or three compressed elevations or tu-
bercles, of which the posterior one on the inner line is generally the
most prominent, but the specimen now before me has the one next
the last-the largest ; the posterior depressed portion paler than the
rest. The anterior thighs two-toothed, the posterior tooth prominent.
Length of the body about one-eighth to one sixth of an inch.

ANTHONOMUS PRUNICIDA-—Walsh. (The Plum Gouger.)

This may be distinguished from other weevils by its ochre-yellow
thorax and legs, its brown wing-cases which have a dull grayish
tint and are without tubercles. The snout is not much longer than
the thorax; the length exclusive ee the snout, about one-eighth of an
inch.

Mr. Walsh, who first described this species, has given in his first re-
port a very full account of its habits, of which I give the following
summary :

It appears to be a Western species, very generally distributed
throughout the Mississippi Valley, and, although found in consider-
able numbers at certain points, is much less injurious than the plum
curculio, for which it is often mistaken.

The perfect insects make their appearance about the same time as
the plum curculio, but continue to deposit eggs only while the stone,
which they penetrate, is soft and tender, hence the time for deposit-
ing is much more limited with this species than with the other. The
mode in which this is performed by the plum gouger differs very ma-
terially from that adopted by the curculio, and enables us at once to
distinguish the puncture of one species from that of the other.

Instead of forming a crescent slit, the female eats through the skin,
forming a cylindrical hole the size of her snout; this she enlarges at
the bottom in the same manner as the previous species.

Having deposited an egg with her snout she thrusts it into the ori-
fice below the surface of the skin, but not to the bottom. As soon as
the larva is hatched it penetrates to the stone, the shell of which is
yet soft, through which it bores to the kernel, where it remains until
it isfull grown. It is now about one-eighth of an inch long, curved
in the usual semi-circular form; of a milk-white color, without the
glassy lustre or rust-red stomach of the curculio larva; the head of
yellowish white, mandibles tipped with brown.

Having completed its growth, it cuts a round hole through the
stone, which, by this time, has become hard, and then returns to the
inside, where it undergoes its transformations into the beetle state,
after which it escapes through the opening made for its exit.

The principal differences between this species and the plum cur-
culio are as follows: The latter is streaked and spotted with black
and white, and has ‘two shining black humps or tubercles on the wing

a

t 137
‘eases, while the gouger is clay or ochre yellow in front, and a dull lead.
or clay color behind, and without any tubercles.
The curculio cuts a crescent slit wherever it deposits an egg, while
the gouger bores a round hole; the larva of the former resides in the
fleshy part of the fruit and goes into the ground to undergo its trans-
_ formations, while the latter enters the stone and remains in the fruit ;
‘the curculio is single brooded, while the gouger is (probably) single
prooded ; the fruit stung by the curculio usually falls prematurely,
while that infested by the gouger remains on the tree but ripens

—_

_ prematurely.

Remepirs.—The striking similarity in many respects between this
species and the apple curculio, with which it is congeneric, will be
noticed from the particulars here given, hence any remedy applicable
toone islikely to be applicable to the other. Thus far nothing feasible
has been suggested, unless it be jarring the trees to bring down the pre-
maturely ripened fruit which may then be gathered and destroyed.
I am not aware that the experiment has been tried, hence it is un-
certain whether this will prove of any practical value. “

CoNoTRACHELUS NENUPHAR—Herbst. (Plum-curculio).

[Pig. 68.] This is undoubtedly the most destruc-
tive weevil with which the orchardist has
to contend; in fact its operations have
become so extensive that the raising of
plums has been almost entirely aban-
doned in some sections of the country.
It is of adark brown color, variegated
with spots of white, ochre-yellow and
black; the snout is rather longer than
the thorax; the surface of the latter is
uneven; the wing-cases have two shin-
ing black humps or tubercles on them,
Pe eis enioreein! Hethd 07°, 08 each case about the middle close
Plum and peach cureulio—a, larva: b, to the Sree re Nae ave
pupa; ¢, beetle; d, a plum, showing hand of dull yellow and white; eac
after depositing her ess.” a thigh has two little teeth on the under-
side. It varies in length from a little over one-eighth to one-fifth of an
inch. When disturbed it has a habit of drawing up its legs, and
bending its snout under its breast, when it is easily mistaken for a
knot or wart on a limb or fragment of bark.

This species has been so long and so well known, it wouid seem no
part of its history could be left in doubt, yet there are points in re-
gard to which there still appears to be some difference of opinion.
I shall therefore first give its history so far as it appears to be uni-
versally agreed upon, and then mention the disputed points :

The beetles usually come forth from their winter quarters in May
and June, some appearing in the southern part of the state as early
as April and from that time on during the season as late as June, ac-
cording to the latitude and the season. The female when about to
deposit her eggs makes a minute cut with the jaws at the tip of her
snout. and thrusting her snout into this enlarges it sufficiently for the
reception of anegg. Then turning round she drops an egg into the

133

opening, which she afterwards thrusts to the bottom of the cut with
her snout; then cuts the crescent around one side of the orifice. One
egg only is deposited in an opening, which is elongate-oval in form,
about three-hundredths of an inch long, the diameter being about one-
third the length; it is of a pearly-white color. Each female is sup-
posed to have a stock of from fifty to one hundred eggs, and to deposit
from five to ten a day. While those which appear earliest begin this”
work about the middle of May, it is continued by others which ap-
pear later, until the last of June or the first of July; thus extending
the period of egg depositing to about two months.

The larva which is hatched from the egg isa little footless worm,
somewhat maggot-like, except that it has a distinct head and is less
attenuate at the extremity; is of a glassy yellowish-white color, but
partakes more or less of the color of the flesh of the fruitin which it
resides ; there is a lighter line running along each side of the body,
with a row of minute black bristles below and a less distinct one
above it; the stomach is rust-red or dark-brown, the head is yellowish
or pale brown. Length when full grown about two-fifths of an inch.
The fruit containing this grub does not usually mature but falls to
the ground before it isfully ripe and before the grub is quite fully
grown. When it has completed this stage it leaves the fruit now on
the ground, and burrows a few inches into the earth where it passes
the pupa state. This requires about three weeks, when it comes forth
in the perfect or beetle state.

Whether it is single or double brooded is one of the questions long
in dispute, and in regard to which there is yet considerable difference
of opinion. Prof. Riley who has tested the matter by enclosing a tree
so that none could escape or enter, found those enclosed single brooded,
the exceptions amounting to but one per cent. As this accords with
what might naturally be expected from its history so far as positive-
ly known, from the fact that its normal habit is to pass the larva
state in the flesh of a fruit that scarcely continues long enough to al-
low for two broods, and from what is known of other closely allied
species, we may take for granted as pretty well settled that it is single
brooded. This conclusion, connected with the fact that it usually
passes through the pupa state in about three weeks, would appear, if
well established, to settle the point that it passes the winter as a
beetle, which is another point about which there has been much dis-
pute. Dr. Hull, who had much experience with this insect, conclud-
ed it was single brooded, but was inclined to believe’ it passed the
winter,in the preparatory statein the ground, but Prof. Riley’s ex-
periment appears to have indicated pretty clearly that this is not the
rule, but that it hybernates as a beetle.

It is proper to add here that Mr. Walsh, who was a very careful ob-
server, after most thorough experiments in reference to the time the
perfect insect makes its appearance, gave it as his decided opinion
that, as a rule, the species is double-brooded. But I consider Prof.
Riley’s experiment as the most decisive and satisfactory.

As is now well known it attacks plums, nectarines, apricots, cher-
ries, peaches, apples, pears, and quinces, but it does not so readily
mature in the apple, as this fruit appears to be too juicy for it; it also
deposits in the black knot on plum trees.

139

Usually the fruit in which it resides drops to the ground before
maturity, but the cherry appears to be an exception to this rule.

Natural Enemires.—Unfortunately for our horticulturists this
troublesome species appears to be subiect to but few parasites or insect
foes. Some years ago a small four-winged fly, belonging to the great
ichneumon family, was ascertained by Dr. Fitch to be a true parasite
upon the larva. This little fly, which he named Sigulphus Curculionis,
is described as follows:

“Head black, sub-polished and sparsely covered on the face with
short, whitish hairs; ocelli touching each other; labrum and jaws
brown; palpi pale yellow; antenne twenty-seven-jointed, filiform
reaching, when turned back, to middle joint of abdomen or beyond,
the bulbus and small second joint rufous and glabrous, the rest dark
or dark brown, though 3-10 in many specimens are more or less tinged
with rufous; 3-14 very gradually diminishing in size; 14-27 sub-equal.
Thorax black, polished, the metathorax distinctly and broadly punc-
tate and the rest more or less distinctly punctate or rugose, with
the sides sparsely pubescent. Abdomen pitchy black, flattened, the
dorsum convex, separated, and of about equal length, the first
joint having two dorsal longitudinal carine down the middle, all
densely marked with very fine longitudinally impressed lines and
sparsely pubescent; ovipositor longer than abdomen, but when
stretched in a line with it projecting backwards about the same
length beyond; rufous, with the sheaths black. Legs pale rufous,
with the upper part of hind tibise and tarsi, and sometimes the hind
femora, dusky. Length of female 0.15-0.16 inch, expanse 0.30;
the male differs only in his somewhat smaller size and in lacking
the ovipositor. In many specimens the mesothorax and the eyes are
more or less distinctly rufous.”

Subsequently another parasite belonging to the same family of
four-winged flies, was discovered by Dr. Trimble, and described by
Prof. Riley. under the name Porizon conotracheli, as follows :

Head pitchy black, opaque, with the ocelli triangularly placed and
close together ; eyes oval, polished and black; face covered with sil-
very-white pubescence; labrum rufous, with yellowish hairs; mandi-
bles and palpi pale yellowish-brown. Antenne inserted in depres-
sions between the eyes, reaching to metathorax when turned back,
filiform, 24-jointed ; black, with basal joints, 6-1 becoming more and
more rufous, the bulbus always distinctly rufous; bulbus rather longer
and twice as thick as joint 3; joint 2 about one-third as long. Thorax
pitchy black, opaque, the sides slightly pubescent with whitish hairs ;
the mesothorax rounded and bulging anteriorly, the scutellum
slightly excavated and sharply defined by a carina each side; meta-
thorax with the elevated lines well defined and running parallel and
close together from scutellum to about one-fourth their length, then
suddenly diverging and each forking about the middle. Abdomen
glabrous, polished, very slender at the base, gradually broader and
much compressed from the sides at the apex, which is truncated;
peduncle uniform in diameter and as long as joints 2 and 3 together ;
joints 2 and 5 sub-equal in length; color rufous, with the peduncle
wholly ; dorsum of joint 2 a lateral shade on joint 3, and more or less
of the two apical, joints superiorly, especially at their anterior edges,
black ; venter more yellowish ; ovipositor about as long as abdomen,

140 4 |
}

porrect when in use, curved upward when at rest; rufous, with the
sheaths longer and black. Legs, including trochanters and corm
uniformly pale yellowish-brown, with the tips of the tarsi dusky.
Wings sub-hyaline and iridescent, with veins and stigma dark brown,
the stigma quite large and the two discoidal cells, sub-equal and as
usual in this genus, joining end to end, but with the upper veins
which separate them from the radical cell, slightly elbowed instead
of being strait, thus giving the radical cella quadrangular instead
of a triangular appearance. Male differs from female only in his some-
what smaller size, and unarmed abdomen. Expanse of female 0.32
inch ; length of body, exclusive of ovipositor 0.22; expanse of male
0.2; length 0.18.

_ Subsequent observations do not appear to have added anything to
our knowledge of these parasites from which so much was hoped; it
is therefore probable that they are parasitic upon other species, and
but occasionally so on this curculio. '

Mr. Walsh, while on a trip to Southern Lllinois in 1868, discovered,
as he believed, three other insect enemies of the larva of the curculio.
One was the larva of a lace-wing fly (Chrysopa), particular species not
determined. The second, a species of predaceous ground-beetle (Aspi-
doglossa subangulata, Chaud.), about three-tenths of an inch tong, and
of a shining black color. These were seen devouring the curculio
larva in peaches. The third was the larva ofsome predacious ground-
beetle—Mr. Walsh supposed it to be of Harpalus pennsylvanicus, De G.
—which appeared to devour curculio larve while in the ground. But
as neither of these species can be considered parasitic upon the cur-
culio, their feeding upon the larve can only be an occasional occur-
rence, and the benefit to be derived from them but slight.

ReMEDIES.—When alarmed, the insect folds up its legs close to its
body, bends its snout under its breast, and drops to the ground; this
habit has suggested jarring the trees, and thus causing them to fall
into a sheet or other contrivance for securing and destroying them,
which is the most efficient remedy against them, so far as known.

A number of ingenious devices for jarring trees and ‘securing the
beetles have been invented, which greatly facilitate the operation and
lessen the labor. A description of these, to be understood by the reader,
would require more room than can be given to them at this time.

The late Dr. E. 8. Hull, of Alton, made trapping and destroying the
curculio a speciality, inventing several ingenious ‘machines for this,
purpose, the last, which is called “Dr. Hull’s Curculio Catcher,” is per-
haps the best known.

Quite anumber of other remedies and means of counteracting this
pest have been proposed and tried, but generally without success,
some of which we mention more as matters of curiosity than other-
wise.

Drenching the foliage with a solution of whale oil soap, sulphur and
lime, was strongly recommended in the New York Observer.

- Coal oil and gas tar placed on swabs, rags, ete., among the branches
has been tried, but, as the drenching, quite in vain.

A number of orchardists, under the mistaken idea that the beetle
had necessarily to climb the trees have applied bandages as traps.

141

Smoothing and packing the ground under the trees and cover-
jing it to the depth of a quarter of an inch with salt has been sug-
‘gested. Covering the ground with boards, bricks or some hard sub-
Stance was for a time supposed to be an effectual remedy.

"Another remedy has been recommended which is doubtless benfi-

ial toa certain extent. This is to smooth the cround fora few feet
around the collar of the tree, then place close ground the trunk early
in the season chips and pieces of bark as hiding places for the beetles,
‘examine often and kill the curculios collected there.

_ Another means of destroying them consists in destroying the fruit
which drops prematurely ; but to make this effectual it must be gath-
ered goon after it falls, before the grub leaves it to enter the ground,
otherwise no advantage is derived therefrom. Hogs and poultry, if
‘allowed to run in the orchard will greatly assist in this matter.

After all the devices and experiments of fruit-growers and investi-
gations of entomologists, we are forced to confess that the Little Turk
remains complete master of the situation, and that raising plums for
profit or extensive use is about hopeless. This isa sad commentary
on horticultural and entomological science, yet it is just as well for
us to acknowledge the fact, not that we would for a moment entertain
the idea of giving up the contest, but that we may be better prepared
to receive and entertain broader views and more comprehensive meas-
ures on this subject if such can be devised.

It is possible that it may become necessary to destroy all our trees
and plant anew. It may be that by nesting and rearing the English
sparrow or some other insect-eating bird in the trees the fruit can be
preserved ; the experiment is neither difficult or expensive and is
well worth a trial.

In the neighborhood of large cities, it may pay to inclose the trees
in some kind of gauze or netting in order to keep off the curculios.
These and a number of other devices can be imagined, and although
now perhaps considered wild, may yet be worth careful consideration.
It is evident that we must advance beyond our range of expedients
before we will find one that will accomplish the desired end, and in
doing this we must necessarily venture among those which appear wild
and extravagant.

CoNOTRACHELUS CRAT&GI.—Walsh. (Quince curculio.)

This beetle, which is about one-fifth of an inch long, has a rather
longer snout than the preceding, is very broad-shouldered, the front
margin of the wing-cases being square and considerably broader than
the thorax. Its general color is a somewhat uniform ash-gray mot-
tled more’or less with dull yellow, dusky and whitish. It is without
the humps on the back, but has about seven longitudinal ridges.

This species does not make a crescent mark like the plum curculio,
but makes a direct puncture like the apple curculio for the reception
of its eggs, the hole being somewhat larger than that made by the
latter, and it is similarly enlarged at the bottom. The egg, which is
similar to that of the plum curculio, hatches in a few days after it is
deposited. The larva produced therefrom works chiefly near the sur-
face of the fruit, and does not penetrate to the heart, in the quince.

7.
142 |

When fully grown its average length is about one-third of an inch,
its diameter being rather less than one-fourth its length; it is
straight, dull-white, with a narrow dusky line along the back, which ©
is usually indistinct on the front part; head reddish-brown, jaws ©
black at the tips, with two teeth at the apex. :

Having completed its larva growth, it Jeaves the fruit and burrows
a few inches into the ground, but instead of changing into a pupa it
remains in this state during the winter, and does not assume the
pupa form until about the first of May, according to Prof. Riley, a few
days before issuing as a beetle.

This species attacks and breeds in the Haw, which is probably its
favorite native fruit, also the quince and pear.

Remepies.—As this species has the habit of dropping when dis-
turbed, the same remedies applicable to the plum curculio will be-
equally effectual against it.

BARIDIUS TRINOTATUS—Say. (The Potato-Stalk Weevil.)

AsITam unacquainted with this beetle, I copy the following from
Prof. Riley’s account of it:

The beetle is of a bluish or ash gray color, distinguished, as its
name implies, by having three shiny black impressed spots at the
lower edge of the thorax. The female deposits a single egg in an
oblong slit about one-eighth inch long, which she has previously
formed with her beak in the stalk of the potato. The larva subse-
quently hatches out, and bores into the heart of the stalk, always pro-
ceeding downwards toward the root. When full grown it is a little
over one-fourth inch long.

It becomes a pupa within the potato stalk which it inhabits; and
it comes out in the beetle state about the last of August or the begin-
ning of September. The stalk inhabited by the larva almost wilts
and dies, and this wilting is first noticed in the latitude of St. Louis,
about the first of July; so far as is at present known it attacks no
other plant but the potato, and the perfect beetle like many other
snout-beetles, must of course live through the winter to reproduce its
species the following spring. Burn all the vines which wilt from its
attacks—roots and all, for it almost always works below the ground.

Spec. char. Imago.—Body black, covered with rather short, robust
linear white prostrate hairs; thorax with the hairs pointing towards
the longitudinal middle; at base on each side is a black dot, scutel
black; elytra with oblivious striae; interstitial lines flat and each
with about three series of the short hairs. Length three-twentieths
of an inch. ;

CoELIODES INAEQUALIs—Say. (The Grape Curculio.)

This little beetle is of a black color with a grayish tint, and is
readily distinguished by its hemispherical form, and by the rectangu-
lar thorn or tooth on the upper and outer edge of each anterior and
middle shank or tibia.

The larva infests the grapes during the months of June and July,
causing a little black hole in the skin, and usually a discoloration of
the berry around it. The larva, which is a footless grub scarcely a

145

fifth of an inch long, is whitish while the grape is green but usually

, partakes of the eplor of the berry as it matures.

This species has been found quite injurious to grapes in various

-sections of Illinois, but especially in the southern part. Its opera-
tions may be distinguished from the “rot” by the fact that the in-
fested berries do not rot or decay, but with the exception of the punc-
ture and slight discoloration remain to the last plump and sound as

far as external appearances indicate.

_ Remepy.—As it falls at the least disturbance of the vines, it should
be carefully watched for in June, and as soon as found should be
shaken off the vines on a white sheet.

As Mr. Walsh has given a full history of this species in his first
report, I close this account with a copy of his full description of the
beetle and larva.

Spec. char. Imago—Black, with minute, short, scale-like appendages,
white hairs, so as to give the black a grayish tint. Head punctured
almost as closely as the thorax; beak reaching a little beyond the base
of the middle pair of legs, neariy cylindrical, curved inwards in a cir-
cular arc, and sometimes tinged with a brick red. Thorax with
rather large confluent punctures, its sides converging in a convex
quadrant for two-thirds of the way from base to tip, thence to the tip
converging very gradually in a straight line. Tip of thorax about
one-half as wide as its base, and squarely docked with a slight cen-
tral excavation; its anterior edge more or less tinged with brick red.
A transverse impressed line three-fourths of the way from the scutel
to the tip of the thorax, and a deeply impressed dorsal longitudinal
line. On each side of the dorsal line is a very large, rounded tubercle,
and outside this, but rather nearer the base, and almost on the lateral
edge uf the thorax, is a smaller, sub-acute tubercle. The wing cases
are slightly freckled with small gray spots; their grooves are punctate,
with large, widely-separated punctures, and the respective interstices
between the second and third, fourth and fifth, the sixth and seventh,
and the eighth and ninth grooves are wider and, especially the first
two, more highly elevated and rounded in front than the others. The
lower surface of the body is punctured like the thorax, but much
more sparsely. The legs are of a more or less dull brick red, the
thighs unarmed, the four front shanks, with a large rectangular tooth
near their outer base, the hind shanks unarmed.

Length of the body .09 to .11 of an inch.

Larva.—An elongate, legless grub, four or five times as long as
wide, nearly cylindrical behind, but tapered in front toward the head.
When fully extended, its length is about two-tenths of an inch. The
head is large, horny, and of a pale brownish-yellow; the jaws (man-
dibles) are chestnut-brown, robust, acutely pointed, and gradually
curved inwards, and their general direction in repose is parallel with
the axis of the body. Along the upper surface ofthe skull is a very
distinct longitudinal groove or suture. The color of the body is semi-
transparent, yellowish-white, with a darker stomach. Each segment

_of the body bears upon each side a large, fleshy, acutely pointed tuber-
cle, directed sidewise, by which character this larva may be distin-
guished at once from those either of the plum curculio (Conotrachelus
nenuphar, Herbst), or of the plum-gouger (Anthonomus prunicida, Walsh);

and, in addition, the last or analsegment bears on each of its hind

angles a similar tubercle, directed backwards.

144

SPHENOPHORUS ZE&—Walsh. (The Corn-curculio. )

This curculio, which was first described by Mr. Walsh, is oblong
oval and sub-cylindrical, the length about one-third of an inch ex-
clusive of the snout, the width about two-fifths the length. It is of a
brownish-black or black color, the punctures being more or less filled
with pale yellow or grayish powder ; the thorax having on the mid-
dle a diamond-shaped polished space. The snout is about one-third
the length of the body and very slender.

The larva is unknown, but the beetle occasionally does considerable
injury to corn by puncturing the young plant near the ground, and
riddling it with little holes. They extend their operations even below
the surface ofthe ground. This, as amatter of course, exhausts the
plant and causes itto wither and die. Iam inclined to think this
species will be found most abundant and injurious in moist situa-
tions; and Riley remarks that he has found it in great numbers on
the lake-beach at Chicago.

If it should become very troublesome at any time, it is possible
that it may be driven off by applications of lime or guano.

Spec. char. Imago.—Color black, often obscured by yellowish matter
adhering t» the hollow places, which, however, can be partially wash-
ed off. Head finely punctured towards the base, with a large dilated
puncture between the eyes above. Snout one-third as long as the
body, of uniform diameter, as fine as a stout horse-hair, and curved
downwards. Before the middle of the thorax a polished diamond-
shaped space, prolonged ina short line in front and ina long line
behind; and on each side of this an irregularly defined polished
space somewhat in the form of an inverted Y ; the rest of the thorax
occupied by very large punctures, which fade into finer and sparser
ones on the polished spaces. Wing-cases with rows of still larger
punctures; placed very wide apart in the usual grooves or striz;
the sutural interstice, that between the second and third strie, and
that between the fourth and fifth striae wider than the rest, elevated,
and occupied by very fine punctures; a small elongate-oval polished
spot on the shoulder, and another near the tip of the wing-case. Be-
neath, polished, and with punctures as large as those of the thorax.
Comes very near Sphenophorus truncatus, Say, but the snout is not “at-
tenuated at the tip” and has no “elongated groove at base above ;” and
moreover, nothing is said in the description of that species of the
very large and conspicuous punctures, found in the elytral striz of
our species.”

Length about three-tenths of an inch exclusive of snout.

Family SCOLYTID.®. (Short-horned wood-borers.)

The insects belonging to this family are distinguished from other
tetramerous species by the following characters: The body is short,
broad and cylindrical, obtuse before and behind; the head is rounded
and sunk rather deeply into the thorax, and is without a snout; the
antenne short, more or less crooked or bent in the middle, and clubbed
or knobbed at the end; the thorax very large, and as wide as the wing-
cases; the tarsi simple, not spongy beneath, and the next to the last

:

_ joint (not all) but slightly bilobed. Illinois species small, few exceed-
ing or even reaching one-fourth of an inch in length.

145

The larvee are small, short, thick, somewhat cylindrical, fleshy

_ grubs, much wrinkled on the back, and footless, and, so far as known,
residing in trees as bark-miners or wood-borers.

»

ScoLtytus 4-spinosus—Say. (S. Rae em an (The hickory bark-
orer.

[Fig. 22.]

This is short, oblong and
f | nearly cylindrical in form.
fe ||| The antenne very short and
g\\| | terminated with a club; the
(@ \\4)\| thorax is quadrate in form
-@!|} and very large, almost equal
\F4'|! in size to the partof the body

N\ ‘kai i behind it. Length one-fifth
| q|, | of an inch, or little less. Color
i ff entirely black, or black with
HF i i brown wing-cases.

Hill The female beetle, select-
||| | Ing the trunk or larger imb
aiylof a hickory tree, bores
i) Wt through the bark and forms

‘& a vertical chamber next to
the wocd from half an inch
4 to an inch in length, on each
i side of which she deposits
" her eggs, varying in number
from twenty to fifty. The
larvee when hatched feed on
the inner bark, each one
forming a track of its own,
thus forming the radiating

footless grub, much like the
larva of some of the curculios, and from which it cannot easily be dis-
tinguished, except by its habits; it is very small, not exceeding the
fifth of an inch in length when fully grown. ;

The eggs are deposited during the months of August and Septem-
ber, and the beetle issues about the latter part of June or first of July.
It attacks the bitter-nut, shell-bark and pig-nut, hickories, and,
probably, the pecan.

No practical remedy is known, nor is there much probability of
any extensive experiments being made until forest timber becomes
more valuable than it is now.

Spec. char. Imago.—Entirely black, or black, with brown elytra.
The head is depressed above, and marked with abbreviated longitu-

E—10

146

dinal lines; deeply inserted into the thorax; surrounded with a coro-
net of long incurved yellowish hairs on the margin; antenne pale
reddish ; thorax nearly or quite as wide as the elytra, sub-quadrate in
form, somewhat rounded in front, the length, which exceeds the
width, is almost equal to that of the elytra, punctured dimly on the
disk, but more distinctly on the sides; elytra with about ten strie,
irregular on the sides, but regular above, composed of small, deep
punctures; interspaces, with a few minute, indistinct punctures;
venter obliquely truncated, black opaque, and with four conic-acute
spines, placed three on one segment and one on the following, though
sometimes some are found on the segments in front of the one with
three.

Length varies from about one-sixth to one-fifth of an inch; the
width equals about one-half the length.

There are some other species of this family which are quite inju-
rious in some sections to evergreens, especially to pines. As it is
possible, some of these may hereafter be found injuring cultivated
evergreens in this State, [ introduce here a short description of
two or: three of the more noted species.

HyLurGUS TEREBRANS—Oliv. (The Boring Hylurgus.)

The knob of the antenne is sub-globular, and there are but six
joints below the knob. It is of a “dull red or fox color, nearly cylin-
drical in form, tapering a very littls before, obtusely rounded at both
extremities, and about one-fourth of an inch in length.” The width
is two-fifths the length, and the length of the thorax one-third the
entire length. .

The larvee devour the inner surface of the bark of ‘pine trees, bor-
ing through it in various directions.

HyLureus DENTATUs—Say. (The Toothed Hylurgus.)

This is a minute species scarcely one-tenth of an inch long; of a
dark brown color; the wing cases are rough, with little granulations,
which become more elevated toward the hind extremity.

It infests the red cedar.

Spec. char. Imago—Body reddish brown; head plain blackish with
short hairs ; antenne rufous; thorax blackish, passing into dull rufous
at base, with numerous hairs rather shorter than those of the head;
punctured; elytra dull rufous, with numerous short hairs; striate,
the striz deeply impressed, and giving the prominent basal edge a
dentate appearance; interstitial lines rough, with raised points,
which are more prominent and distinct toward the tip; beneath,
er reddish brown; feet rufous. Length nearly one-tenth of an
inch.

Family CERAMBYCIDA. (The long-horned Wood-borers.

This extensive family is readily distinguished from the other tet-
ramerous families by the following characters:

147

The antenne are long and tapering, mostly longer than the head
and thcrax, and often considerably longer than the body; the body is
elongated; the tarsi are always distinctly four-jointed, spongy beneath
and the next to the last joint distinctly bilobed.

_ Many of them when captured make a slight stridulating or creak-
ing sound by rubbing the parts of the thorax against each other.
Our species are usually of a medium size or large.

The larvee are usually rather thick, fleshy grubs, generally somewhat
enlarged in front and tapering backwards, cylindrical or slightly flat-
tened, with deep incisions between the segments. The head is small
and more or less hid in the thorax. Most of them have six small
thoracic feet, but a number are entirely footless. They are, as a rule,
wood-borers.

The family is divisible into four sub-families.

1. Sub-fam. Prionins®. Body broad and depressed ; thorax trans-
versely oblong, with sharp lateral margins, usually toothed; thighs
never clavate ; anterior coxe strongly transversal ; size large ; colors
uniform brown or black. The larve have six small feet. Several
species of this sub-family are found in Illinois, all doubtless more
or less injurious to vegetation, but so far as known, only two claim
attention on account of the injury done to useful plants. °

PrioNus LATICOLLIs—Dru. (The Broad-necked Prionus.)

sa, This is one of our largest beetles, and may
bbe readily distinguished by the following
$ characteristics :

It is of a long oval shape, varying in
length from a little over one inch to nearly
one inch and three-fourths; the width across
the wing-cases is nearly one-half the length.
The body is considerably flattened, and the
thorax, which is about twice as wide as it is
long, has three teeth on each lateral margin,
the middle tooth being the most prominent.
The antenne, which are about half as long
as the body, are serrate, but these serratures
are not extended into long sharp teeth, as in
the following species. They are about 12-
jointed. The color is almost uniform ma-
hogany-brown ; sometimes quite black.

The larva, or grub, is of a creamy white color, with a pale bluish
line along the back; the first segment is large, being as long or
longer than the next three combined ; it decreases gradually in size
from the third segment backward to the end; underside somewhat
flattened; head brown; legs minute. When fully grown it is nearly
three inches long, and as large asa man’s thumb. Dr. Harris says
they live in the roots of the Balm of Gilead, Lombardy poplar, and
probably in those of other kinds of poplar also, It had been observed
by various persons, boring into and hollowing out the roots of grape-
vines, but the»particular species it belonged to was not known until
Prof. Riley succeeded in rearing some to the perfect state from speci-

PRIONIS LATICOLLIs, Drury; female.

148

mens sent to him. It also occasionally attacks the roots of apple and
pear trees, either boring intoor gnawing them so as to seriously injure
the trees.

PRIONUS IMBRICORNIS.—Linn. (The Tile-horned Prionus.)

This species is very similar in size, color, and general appearance
to the preceding, but may readily be distinguished from it by the
form of the antenne, which, in the male, are 18 to 20-jointed, and in
the female 16 to 17-jointed, and each joint is furnished on one side
with a long sharp tooth; these teeth overlap each other like tiles. It
varies in length from an inch and one-eighth to an inch anda half.
In other respects the species are almost exactly alike.

The larva is similar in every respect to that of the preceding spe-
cies, and, like it, works in the roots of grape-vines. The length of
time these species remain in the larva state has not been definitely
determined, but it is not less than two or three years, probably the
latter.

ReMEDIEs.—As it is impossible for the vineyardist to become aware
of the presence of the larve until the effect of their work is shown
by the decay of the vine, there is little chance of saving it after it is
once attacked. When the vines are found dying without any visible
cause, it is well to examine the roots, and after the borer is found,
destroy it at once. The beetles, whenever found, should be carefully
destroyed.

II. Sub-Family CERAMBYCINZE.

The species of this sub-family differ from those of Lamiine in
having the head horizontal or inclined, instead of vertical; * from
the Lepturians they differ in having the head attached directly to the
thorax without any distinct neck, in having the eyes notched or
lunate instead of round, and in not having the elytra tapering pos-
teriorly; and from Prionine they are distinguished by having the
thorax more or less cylindrical and not thinned out on the sides to a
sharpmargin. The thorax is very often barrel-shaped, with or with-
out a spine or tubercle on each side. They are of various colors, often
variegated with strong contrasts.

The larvae, as in the previous sub-family, have the head narrower
than the body, which is usually largest in front and tapering slightly
backwards.

CALLIDIUM AMOENUM—Say.

This species may be distinguished from the following by the fact
that the base of the antenne are not enveloped by the eyes that the
second joint of the antenne is rather large, and by the following de-
scription from Say: ;

It has been bred by Prof. Riley from grape vines, but to what ex-

* It is proper to warn the reader that in a number of the species of this sub-family the head is
so inclined as to make the face appear vertical, but this term, as used aboye, signifies that the face
in Lamiinz is vertical as compared with the back of the head. ;

—-, -

149

tent it has been injurious appears to be unknown. Some closely
allied species are known to be injurious to pine, spruce and hemlock
wood and lumber, in which the larvae bore. The larvae are very
much flattened, with a broad, horny head and six small legs, and are
said to live two years.

Spec. char. Imago.—Body rufous, with short hair, punctured; antennae
black; thorax subinequal, polished; punctures very numerous on each
side, less numerous on the disk; scutel rufous; elytra violaceous, with
confluent excavated punctures, furnishing short black hairs, tip
rounded; tibia and tarsi black.

Cron cinctus.—Dru. (C. garganicus.—Fab.) The Hickory-trunk
Borer.

Elongate and rather slender; the scutellum acute at the tip and
triangular; thorax without callosites on the back, thighs with
minute spines at the tip.

Spec. char. Imago.—Ilt is of a reddish brown color, the head and
thorax being darker than the wing-cases; covered throughout with
scattered, pale yellow down or hairs; antennae very long; exceeding
the entire length of the body; a smooth, dark, red line across the face
between the eyes; thorax barrel shaped, with a sharp spine each side
near the middle; scuteilum yellow. Each wing-case has an oblique,
yellow partial band across it, a little in front of the middle; com-
mencing about one-fourth of an inch behind the shoulder of each
wing-case, they run obliquely inwards and backwards to the suture or
inner margin. On each side of these bands the color is darker than
on the other parts of the wing-cases ; each wing-case, has at the tips,
two little sharp teeth or spines projecting backwards, the inner spine
or tooth being the longest ; length of the insect from seven-tenths to
one inch; width about or slightly more than one-fourth the length.

The larvae of this species inhabit the trunk of the hickory, in
which they form long galleries in the direction of the fibers.

I am not aware that any remedy has been suggested or tried in ref-
ference to this particular species.

EBURIA QUADRIGEMINATA—Say. The Honey-Locust Borer.

This species which is of a pale brown or fawn color may be distin-
guished by two ivory-like spots on each wing-case; by the two black
tubercles on the upper surface, and one short spine on each side of
the thorax. It varies in length from alittle over three-fourths to
nearly an inch. Its larva lives and bores in the Honey Locust.

Spec. char. Imago.—Body entirely pale yellowish brown; antennae
hardly more* obviously hairy on the basal joints than on the others ;
thorax with two black tubercles above, rather before the middle,
placed transversely, and a short spine each side on the middle of the
length of the thorax; elytra rather paler than the thorax ; each with
two double, somewhat elevated bright yellow, abbreviated very short
lines, the two members of the basal spot equal, the other spot is
placed on the middle, the inner member is shorter than the exterior
one ; tip two spined, the exterior spine longest; intermediate and pos-
terior thighs two-spined at tip, the inner spine rather longest.

150 |
ELAPHIDION VILLosuM—Fabr. The Oak-twig Pruner.

This beetle belongs to the same group as the preceding ; is long
and slender; the antennae of the males are longer than the body,
about equal to it in the females; it is of a dull bay-brown color, with
small scattered, irregular patches of gray hair; eyes semi-circular,
beneath the anterior corner of each is a smooth, oblique prominence ;
head not furrowed between the eyes ; thorax barrel shaped, not spined,
rough and punctured, some smooth prominences placed in a trans-
verse line in front of the middle; scutellum small, rounded, yellow;
Wing-cases punctured with large punctures, two spined at the tips,
outer spines largest; length of the female over five-tenths of an inch ;
width, five-sixteenths. This species appears to be found throughout
the state, but not in great abundance. The larvae live in the
branches of the black and white oaks; following the pith or heart of
the slender branch for some distance, at length, is severed and falls
to the ground. They appear here in the latter part of May and June.
Prof. Peck has given an account of the operations of the larve of this
species: .

“The perfect insect lays its eggs in July (in Massachusetts). Each
egg is placed close to the axilla or joint of a leaf stalk, or of a small
twig near the extremity of a branch. The grub hatched from it pen-
etrates at that spot to the pith and then continues its course toward’
the body of thetree, devouring the pith and thereby forming a cylin-
drical burrow, several inches in length, in the center of the branch.
Having reached its full size, which it does toward the end of the
summer, it divides the branch at the lower end of its burrow by
enawing away the wood transversely from within, leaving only the
ring of bark untouched. It then retires backward, stops up the end
of its hole near the transverse section with fibers of the wood and
awaits the fall of the branch, which is usually broken off and precip-:
itated to the ground by the autumnal winds. Branches of five or six
feet in length and one inch in diameter are thus severed by these in-
sects. By collecting the fallen branches in the autumn and burning
them before spring we prevent the development of the beetles, while
we derive some benefit from the branches as fuel.”

ELAPHIDION PARALLELUM. ‘Newm. (The Parallel Longhorn.)

This species is so very similar in
habits and appearance to the preceding
that it is unnecessary to add anything
further in reference to it than that it
it is known to injure, very frequently,

ELIPHIDION PARALLELUM, Newm.:—a, as "4 :
larva; b, twig split open, showing the en- the tw 1gs of apple trees. Yet it 1s
closed pupa; k, the severed end of the thought by many experienced fruit-
twig; ¢c, beetle; 7, basal joints of the an- 5 $

tennie, showing the characteristic spines growers that, where not too abundant,
at the tip of the third and fourth joints; 1 1eC j

4, tp of Sinton aoe a hy Hen mastiies the pruning these species do is as often
labium, mandible, and antenna of larva, beneficial as injurious.

151
*
Ciytus (GLYcoBIUS) spEcIosus.—Say. (The Sugar-maple Borer.)

The various species of this genus (Clytus) are distinguished by

their convex or rounded form, and by the nearly globular or barrel-

shaped thorax, which is neither flattened nor indented, and mostly
smooth. Quite a number of species are found in Illinois, all boring
in the larva state, into trees or woody plants and hence more or less
injurious. This and the following species are briefly described as
examples.

It is found in the northern part of the state, but as yet I have cap-
tured none in this section. The body is black; head with yellow
band on the front above the antenne; antenne black ; thorax globu-
lar, with two oblique yellow spots each side, the latter being the
longest. The wing-cases, when closed, appear thus: A yellow spot
on each shoulder, a diagonal line on each running outward from the
scutel ; next, a zigzag line running across both, forming a W ; next,
a narrow transverse band, then another a little wider, and finally, the
tips have a broad band of the same color (yellow), with a spot each
side of the suture of black. The intermediate color between these
bands is a purplish-black ; length about one inch; width one-third.
The larva bores into the sugar maple.

Ciytus (CYLLENE) ROBINIZ.—Forst. (The Locust-tree Borer.)

Antenne brown, shorter than the body, inserted in a notch in the up-
per side of the eye; a yellow cross band on the head immediately behind
the antennee; another band along the hind margin of the head, which
borders the eyes behind, curving around and then on the cheek;
thorax barrel-shaped, black,- encircled by four yellow bands; wing-
cases brown, crossed by five zigzag, whitish lines, shoulders and tips
margined with the same ; breast and abdomen striped with yellowish-
white bands; length five-eighths of an inch, width one-sixth. The
perfect insect appears in the latter part of summer and commence-
ment of fall. The larve which are hatched out in the fall depredate
upon the locust (R. pseudacacia), eating the sap-wood and perforating
the trunk. I have before me now a grub taken from a locust standing
in the street. It is scarcely half grown, as they do not finish their
larval state until the next season after hatching out. It is a rather
slender grub, with a reddish-brown head, having a triangular de-
pression in front and a central scollop behind, the skin of the segment
rolling loosely over the posterior margins. It is of a pale yellow color,
with six very minute feet.

Say. (The Ash-tree Borer.)

Dark brownish purple, head and thorax darkest ; eyes nearly cir-
cular, behind them a narrow yellow border; thorax barrel-shaped,
deep purple, surrounded by three very narrow yellow lines, one at
each end and one in the middle; scutel yellow; wing-cases crossed by
three yellow bands: first, a semi-circular band from the scutel running
backwards and round up to each shoulder; then another of similar
shape about the middle, with the circle reversed; then a straight band,
and a strong spine at the tip of each; length half an inch; width
one-seventh of an inch. This is quite common in southern IIlinois.

The larva of this species bores in the ash. ;

CLYTUS (NEOCLYTUS) CAPR.

152
III. Sub-Family Lamim»®,

The species belonging to this family may usually be distinguished
from those of the other sub-families by the vertical head, but there
are quite a number belonging to (erambycine, which have the
face so strongly inclined that care must be taken in using this
character. The last joint of the palpi or feelers is cylindrical and
pointed.

The larve are footless grubs resembling in some respects the grubs
- of the Buprestians, but are more cylindrical, the indentation is more
distinct, and the front segment is not so much larger in proportion to
the others. Although there are a number of species found in Illinois
which are more or less injurious, we can mention here only a few of
the more important, which belong chiefly to the genus Saperda.

SAPERDA CANDIDA, Fabr.; (S. prvirrata)—Say. (The Round-headed
Apple-tree Borer.)

[Fig. 25.]

=

<=>

_

SAPERDAT'CANDIDA, Fabr.; (S. BIVITTATA, Say); the Round-headed Apple-tree Borer :—a, larva;
d, pupa; ¢, beetle.

This is one of the most injurious borers with which the orchard-
ist is troubled, its only rival in this respect being the Flat-headed
Apple-tree Borer—(Chrysobothris femorata.)

It is easily recognized by the following characters :

It is long and narrow, the length varying from about three-fifths
to three-fourths of an inch, the width across the shoulders being
about one-fourth the length; the antenne are nearly as long as the
body, slender and tapering ; there are two very distinct white stripes
running from the head to the tips of the wing-cases between three
rather broader cinamon-brown stripes. These stripes are so distinct
and well marked that they are sufficient of themselves to distinguish
the species. :

It makes its appearance in the beetle state in May and June, but,
as it remains quiet and hid during the day, and flies at night, it is
seldom seen except by those who search for it. During the month of
June or the first part of July, according to latitude, the female depos-
its her eggs, one in a place, upon the bark of the tree, low down on
the trunk or near the ground.

153

In about a fortnight, from each of these eggs is hatched a minute
footless grub of a whitish color, with a yellowish head, which eats its
\ way directly downwards in the bark. For the first year of their lives
they live upon the inner bark and sap-wood, forming flat shallow cav-
ities, which are filled with their saw-dust-like castings. Although
its operations vary somewhat, vet, as a general rule, on the approach
of winter it descends toward the ground, and probably remains inac-
tive until the following spring, when it commences to cut a cylindri-
cal passage upward in the solid wood. The latter burrow or hole runs
slightly inwards toward the centre of the tree, and then outwards,
terminating at the bark. MHaving done this, it stuffs the upper end
of its burrow with the saw-dust-like castings, and the lower part with
small woody fibres, after which it rests from its labors and enters the
pupa state. According to Dr. Fitch, it remains in the tree two years
from the time it is hatched; but, according to Prof. Riley, three

* years.

The larva, when fully grown, varies considerably in size, but is
usually nearly an inch long, and about one-fourth of an inch in diam-
eter at the broadest part. It is cylindrical in form, which distin-
guishes it from the flat-headed borer; the segment immediately be-
hind the head is considerably larger and broader than the others,
with a tawny yellow spot, of a somewhat horny consistency on the
upper side. The head is a shining chestnut-brown, the jaws deep
black. The body is soft and fleshy, and of a very pale yellow or
whitish color. The two segments immediately behind the larger one
are much shorter than the others; on the top of the last six or seven
segments is a double wart-like elevation.

Length as given above.

Mr. D. B. Wier, who has studied quite thoroughly the habits of this
species in Illinois orchards, makes the following statement :

“Tf the beetles are numerous, different females will often lay their
eggson the same tree at different periods, sometimes as long as two
months or more apart. I have found as many as twenty-seven young
borers of eight different sizes in one tree in September, a fact that has
probably given rise to much of the confusion concerning this insect.
How many eggs this beetle lays I have not been able to determine,

probably about one hundred. The eggs soon hatch out little, fleshy,
dirty, whitish-yellow, ‘cylindrical grubs or larva with a small, dark
chestnut brown head, the segment next the head being large, the
next two narrow (short), the rest large, with two warts each, on both
the upper and under side, covered with very short, sharp, stiff bristles ;
ass thirteenth segment is short and cylindrical. The grubs have no
eet.

“As soon as hatched the young grubs begin to gnaw their way into
the bark of the tree by means of strong, sharp jaws. They do not
usually penetrate directly through, but reach the liber or inner bark
half an inch distant from the point of entrance. In their passage
through the bark they shove their excrement and refuse out through
the opening of their burrow, and being of a glutinous nature it collects
around its mouth in a mass as large as half a bean or in the shape of
a tear; these exeretions are usually of an orange color, and are at once
recognized by the experienced eye.

154

“The great majority of young larve reach the inner bark about
September Ist, and have generally all reached it by October Ist. The
first half of October is the best time to search for and destroy them.
Until that time they have done but little, if any damage, and their
location is readily detected by their excretions on the trunk of the
tree. They are readily found and despatched by shaving off the outer
bark with a sharp knife. My plan of operation has been to go over
my orchards each July or August, and with a sharp hoe clean any
weeds, grass or other litter and a little soil from around the trunk of
each tree, and then in October search carefully and kill the borers.

“We have-often seen it stated that some particular varieties of apple
are not injured by the borer. The observing searcher after young
borers late in the fall will hardly fail to see the reason why. In all
thrifty, late growing varieties, as soon as the young borer penetrates
the young bark, its burrow is filled with sap and it is drowned. This
is the reason why trees on high, dry, poor soil suffer more than those
on rich, deep soil, and why the borers will never be so destructive on
the prairies, as the poorer soils of the timber. This also explains
why trees in grass are injured more than those kept vigorous by cul-
tivation. But it matters not how vigorous the tree, if the young borer
isearly enough in the season to secure lodgment in the alburnum, or
the new layer of sap-wood. The young larva usually works its way
downward, striving to penetrate into the trunk of the tree lower than
the surface of the ground, where it safely passes the winter. The sec-
ond season the larva enlarges the burrow mostly vertically, or up and
down the stem of the tree, and during the summer, feeds generally by
night in the upper part of it, and in the heat of the day in the lower’
part or just under the surface of the soil. By fall its burrow will be
from three to six inches long. During the summer the refuse is
shoved out through theholes in the bark in pellets shaped like grains
of oats, though larger. These we almost invariably find in pairs lying
parallel, with their points toward the tree.

“Tf we examine our larva at the opening of the second spring of its
life we shall find it reduced in length nearly one-half by contraction
of the rings of its body from want of food during winter. But it eats
voraciously, and by fall is of full size. At this age they are nearly all
of a size. During this, their last summer and fall, they do, their
principal damage by widening their burrows on every side, destroy-
ing the alburnum deposited the year before and often the layer under
it. If there is one in a tree at this age, and the tree is not more than
one inch and a half in diameter, the borer usually kills it by girdling
entirely around it, except about one-fourth of an inch on one side.
One borer in a large tree does not materially injure it, but generally,
in such trees, there are from two to five, if there are any, and they
girdle all around to within one-fourth of an inch of each other’s bur-
rows, and thus kill the tree. These larvae do not eat the woody fiber
of the tree; they tear it down with their sharp, horny, outside pair
of jaws, and then select out their proper food with their inner pair of |
jointed, fleshy jaws, which are armed with long, sharp hooksor teeth.
The refuse, close, woody fiber is thrown out. The excrement of the
grub is not thrown out, but packed firmly away in some unused por-
tion of the burrow.

155

“The larva during the last fall of its life eats voraciously until cold
weather. It then houses itself carefully away until spring. As soon
as the weather becomes mild it begins to cut a cylindrical burrow

from three to six inches long, usually up the trunk of the tree, but.

sometimes directly through it, ending it just under the outside bark,
leaving the bark about the thickness of writing paper. It then
draws back about an inch, places some coarse chips before and behind
it, and passes into the pupa state.

“In the pupa state the Saperda is inactive. While in this state it
is oftener attacked and destroyed by its, (so far as I have observed)
only natural enemy, one of the smaller wood-peckers. But as this
bird only destroys them after all their mischief is done it results in
no great benefit. After remaining in the pupa state from two to six
weeks it changes into the imago or perfect state.”

Although the attacks of this species are directed chiefly against
the apple tree, yet according to Dr. Harris and others, it is frequently
found injuring the quince, mountain-ash, hawthorn and other thorn
bushes, the June berry or shad bush and other allied species.

Remepizs.—It is unnecessary for us to give a list of the various
remedies which have been proposed for this troublesome species ; but
in addition to that proposed by Mr. Wier we may give the following
as affording the best promise of success :

It appears from exper‘ence that trees trained low so that the branches
shade the trunk, and that are healthy, thrifty growers are less liable
to the attack both of the Saperda and Buprestis than those with ex-—
posed trunks or that are feeble growers.

As a means of preventing the beetle from depositing its eggs the
rubbish should be cleared away from the base of the trunk in the
spring and early summer months, especially during May and June 5.
and during these months occasional applications of soap should be
made. - For this purpose soft soap should be used and should be rubbed
on the lower part of the trunk and in the axils or forks of the lower
limbs. It would be well also to place a mixture of soil and ashes or
lime around the collar, first removing some of the soil immediately
around the trunk and replacing it with this mixture and slightly
mounding. |

It is supposed by many that solutions can be injected into the bur-
rows and thus destroy the borer, but it is evident from the course of
the burrows as heretofore described that the solution would fail to.
reach them and be of any value whatever.

Some one has recommended attaching a tube to the mouth of the
burrow with the other end standing higher than the probable position
of the grub at the time, then fill it with some noxious solution as
soapsuds, refilling as it is absorbed into the burrow, but even then it

is doubtful whether it would pass through the castings with which
the burrow is filled behind the grub.

Dr. Fitch recommends pouring from a tea-pot or vessel with a spout,

hot water into the burrow at the point of entrance, having first cut a

——= +. - --—» ~

little distance into it so as to enlarge the entrance. But this remedy
can only apply or be of benefit while the worm is moving downward.

Unfortunately for our fruit growers, this species does not appear to»

156

be subject to the attacks of any parasite, their only aids in the ani-
mal kingdom in keeping it in check being the Wood-peckers, and
even among these the Downy Wood-peckers, (Picus subescens)
appears to be the only valuable aid. It appears to be peculiarly
adapted by nature for discovering and destroying the Apple-tree
borer and similar larve. It should therefore be protected with jeal-—
ous care. .

Spec. char. Imago.—Head vertical, about as broad as the front part
of the thorax; eyes large; antenne nearly as long as the body, taper-
ing, first joint much thicker than any other. Thorax cylindrical ;
sides parallel; narrower than the elytra ; somewhat longer than wide;
Elytra long and narrow, slightly widened in front ; shoulders rounded;
not furrowed, but smooth ; face white; eyes black. The coloring of
thorax and elytra consists of five stripes, three of which—the two
outer and middle—are cinnamon brown, and rather wider than
the two intermediate ones, which are white; each of these stripes is
very distinct, and all extend from the head to the tip of the elytra.
Underside thickly covered with white down. Legsand antenne dark
ash color.

Length as given above.

SAPERDA VESTITA. Say. (The Hairy Saperda.)

This species is thickly covered with greenish-yellow hair, giving it
an olive-green color, each wing-case being marked with two or three
black dots near the middle. It is about three-fourths of an inch long;
the width about one-third the length. Dr. Harris says he has taken
eee on European lindens from which they had just come

orth.

Spec. char. Imago—Antennae about the length of the body; eyes dark
chestnut; thorax with an obsolete dorsal line; elytra unarmed at tip;
dots black, small, three on each elytra, placed one before and near the
middle, largest one a little nearer the base and more distant from the
. suture than the other, and one behind the middle, distant from the
preceding line with the anterior one. Length three-fourths of an
inch.

SAPERDA TRIDENTATA. Oliv. (The Three-toothed or Elm-tree
Saperda.)

This species, which is slightly more than half an inch long, is
quite slender, the width being not more than one-fourth the length.
It isof a dark brown color, thinly covered with grayish down, which
gives it the appearance of being sprinkled over with fine gray
powder.

The black eyes are surrounded by a narrow white line, which above
is yellow, a narrow yellow stripe on each side of the thorax; each
wing case has on it three distinct, though rather narrow, yellow,
oblique bands, which run from the outer margin obliquely backward
and inward to the suture; those from the opposite side meeting at the
suture. From the outer end of the anterior of these bands a similar
stripe runs forward along the outer margin of each wing case to the
shoulder; underside brown, thinly covered with gray down.

157

Found in Central Illinois and perhaps in other portions of the State.
‘The larvae bore into the elm, undermining the bark, often causing
great injury to these trees when planted out for shade groves.

Family CHRYSOMELID. (True Plant Beetles.)

This family, in the extended sense adopted by Dr. LeBaron in his
fourth report, contains a number of small species, most of which are
more or less injurious to vegetation, feeding, as a general rule, both
in the larval and perfect state, on the foliage.

They may be distinguished from other Tetramerous species by the
following characters, which are in good part negative. The front of
the head is not prolonged into a snout; the antennae, instead of being
long and tapering, as in the long-horned beetles, are always shorter
than the body and usually less than halfits length, and are of the same
size throughout or slightly enlarged toward the tip. The body is
broadly oblong, oval or round, sometimes almost hemispherical, the
length seldom twice the greatest width.

The larva are short, thick grubs, usually enlarged in the middle,
arched, generally soft, and often gaily colored, and beset with thick
flattened tubercles or branching spines; six well developed true or
thoracic feet and sometimes a broad pro-leg at hind extremity. As
a general rule the eggs are deposited on the plants on which they
feed, being attached by one extremity to the leaves or stems.

Some of these species undergo their transformation to the pupa
and perfect state attached to the leaves and stems of the plants on
which they feed, whilst others descend into the ground.

This estensive family has been sub-divided into several sub-families
by characters which are not sufficiently well marked for use in this
report. Yet, for the benefit of those who desire to know something
of these sub-divisions, I give a short analytical table of the sub-families
based on that given by Dr. Le Baron but modified so as to accord with
Westwood’s arrangement, which I prefer.

A. Body elongated; thorax not margined at the sides; head slightly constricted behind the
eyes; eyes prominent ; thighs usually more or less thickened.
B, Body much elongated; first ventral segment very long; larvae live in the stems of
APPR ES ee acs et een cast passer sa setnatcascuecss cononnsans rane ewsssnanasenviann iecgheezetetseee so oo oie DONACINAE.
BB. Body moderately elongated ; first ventral segment not much longer than the others;
larvae live on the leaves of plants, sometimes cover themselves with excrement—

AA. Body more or less rounded (except Hispinae) ; thorax almost always margined; head
not constricted ; eyes not prominent; thighs not swollen, (except in Haltica and its
sub-genera. )

C. Antennae distinct, being wider apart at the base than the length of the first joint.

D. Body oval; abdomen wholly covered by elytra; larvae live exposed on leaves—

: j : CHRYSOMELINAE.
DD. Body usually short and sub-cylindrical; tip of abdomen vertical and uncovered ;
larvae live on leaves, im POLtable CASES... -seesererersssseeeensees CRYPTOCEPHALINAE,

Cc. Antennae approximate, being rarely wider apart than the length of the first joint.

E. Antennae filiform and at least half as long as the body; hind thighs, in one divis-
ion, enlarged, for jumping; larvae live on leayes or between their laminae—

GALERUCINAE,

EE. Antennae less than half as long as the body, and more or less thickened toward

the tip.
F. Head exposed; form oblong and usually sub-quadrate ; surface usually strongly
pitted or reticulated ; laryae live between the laminae of leaves........... HISPINAE.

FF, Head concealed under the thorax ; form hemispherical; surface usually smooth ;
larvae live on leaves, Covered DY CXCTEMENL......+.eeseeeeeseseressteeessenes CASSIDINAE,
7

ieee! ee oe

153
CrIocERIS ASPARAGI, Linn. ' (The Asparagus Beetle.)

This is an imported insect, and so far as I am aware, has not yet
reached Illinois; but as introduced species often prove our worst in-
sect enemies, I give a short account of it here for the benefit of our
gardeners. }

It is of a deep blue-black color; the thorax is red; the wing cases -
also have some markings on them. It is about.one-fourth of an inch |
long and half as wide across the wing-cases, which are: broader than
the thorax. The asparagus appears to be its chief food plant. The
eggs, which are generally attached to the leaves, are of a blackish
color. The larvae are rather thick grubs enlarged and arched in the
middle, of a dull ash color, with a black head'and black legs.

The first brood hatches out, in the latitude of New York, about the
middle of June; complete their growth by the erd of the month or
first of July and descend to. the ground to undergo their transforma-
tions. By the middle of August the second brood appears; and hay-
ing completed their transformations in September, pass the winter in
the perfect or beetle state.

Remepies—The asparagus growers of Long Island adopt the fol-
lowing method of counteracting this species: Early in the spring,
when the beetle has made its appearance, they destroy all the aspara-
gus plants except the larger ones intended for market, hoeing up all
the young seedlings that start from the first years seed every spring.
The beetle is thereby forced to lay her eggs on the large shoots from
the old stools, and as these are cut every few days, the eggs fail to
hatch out into larvae.

Spec. char. Imago—Blue black or greenish; thorax slightly convex,
reddish, shining, punctured, with two small blue black spots and
streaks, sometimes ‘united, at others almost obliterated; wing-cases
dusky yellowish color, suture and a short branch on each side forming
a cross, blue black; a blue-black spot on each wing case near the front
and another near the tip, but these are variable, often running into
the middle one; legs a shining blue black occasionally with a rust-
colored ring around the base of the tibae.

LEMA TRILINEATA. Oliv. (The Three-lined Potato Beetle.»

LEB ae The potato appears to be subject to the attacks of quite
¥, anumber of insects, among which is this species. The
beetle is about a quarter of an inch in length and half as
wide across the wing cases; the sides are parallel; the
thorax, which is of a shining orange-yellow color, is nar-
rower than the elytra; the antennae are slightly enlarged
toward the extremity, dull black; the wing cases are lemon
Pete ceatit yellow, witha broad, shining black stripe on each near the
ma) Triuine-Outer margin, the inner margins black, so that when
viendo closed they form a central black stripe, thus showing
three black stripes from w hich the species derives its name ¢rilineata,
or three-lined.

There are other beetles which, at a hasty glance, may readily be

159

taken for this species, but a careful comparison with the full specific
characters given below will enable any one to distiuguish it.

The larva may be distinguished from all other insects that feed
upon the potato by its habit of covering itself with its own excre-
ment, which, remaining attached to the prolongations of the last seg-
ment ina mass is thrown forward over the back. They are short,
thick, slug-like worms, enlarged and arched in the middle, the thickest
portion being behind the middle. When young they are of a dull
yellow color, growing brighter as they increase in age; a faint stripe
is visible along the sides low down and a dark line along the back;
head and legs black. They are usually more or less moistened with
a viscid fluid secreted from the skin.

The eggs are of a golden yellow color, oval in form and about four-
hundredths of an inch long (according to Dr. Fitch’s measurement),
placed in clusters of from half a dozen to a dozen, usually on the
underside of the leaf, though occasionally they are placed on the up-
per side. According to Dr, Harris, the eggs hatch in about two
weeks after being deposited and the larvae complete their growth in
about two weeks more. Having completed their growth they descend
into the ground, where they form a small oval cell and remain during
the pupa state, which lasts about two weeks, when they emerge as
perfect beetles.

The species appears to be two-brooded during the season, the first
beetles appearing, as a general rule, in the latter part of May and
early in June and again in the latter part of July or first of August,
but there appears to be much irregularity in this respect, as they can
be found in all sizes during the season after they have appeared.

They pass the winter in the perfect state, hiding beneath rubbish,
leaves, bark, etc., and remaining torpid during the cold weather.

They feed upon the leaves of the potato plant, both in the perfect ‘
‘and larval state, but they are not limited to this plant alone, as they
flourish on other species of Solonaceous plants.

REMEDIES.—This species seldom occurs in such numbers to excite
any great fear for the potato crop, but if it should at any time prove
seriously injurious, it is probable the same remedies recommended for
the Colorado potato beetle will be equally efficacious with this.

Spec. char. Imago.—Oblong in form; the wing-cases parallel on the
side; rounded behind and squarely docked in front ; nearly twice the
width of the thorax; width about half the entire length; thorax
about as broad as it is long, narrowed and constricted behind just in
front of the hind border; antenne about half the length of the body,
slightly enlarged toward the tip; ground or general color lemon or
orange-yellow; the head is of this color and unspotted; eyes very
prominent, black, with a notch in front ; a transverse impressed line
across the head behind the eyes; antennae, one or two®basal joints
shining yellow, rest dull black. Thorax shining lemon or honey-
yellow, a black dot or point on each side a little before the middle,
but these are sometimes wanting. The wing cases,when closed, present
three very distinct black stripes extending nearly or quite their
entire length, one rather broad on each case near the outer margin.
The central one’at the suture formed by the inner black margins of
each case; the outer stripes do not reach quite to the tip of the ely-

160

tra; marked with numerous rows of minute impressed dots. Under-_
side, femora and tibae reddish-yellow ; tarsi dull black or dusky.

Frpra viticipa. Walsh. (The Grape-vine Fidia.)

The following account of this species, with which I am not ac-
quainted, is taken from Prof. Riley’s first report.*

It is of a chestnut brown color, and is densely covered with short
whitish hairs, which give it a hoary appearance. I have
found them very thick in most of the vineyards which I visited, and
it is almost universally miscalled the “rose-bug,” which is, hdwever,
a very different insect. The grape-vine Fidia was first described by
Mr. Walsh in the May (1867) number of the Practical Entomologist.
It is found in the woods on the wild grape-vine and also on the leaves
of the Cersis Canadensis, but of the tame vines it seems to prefer the
Norton’s Virginia and Concord. It makes its appearance during the
month of June, and by the end of July has generally disappeared,
from which fact we may infer that there is but one brood each year.
The manner in which it injures the vine is by cutting straight,
elongated holes of about one-eighth inch in diameter in the leaves, and
when numerous it so riddles the leaves as to reduce them to mere
shreds. The preparatory stages of this beetle are not yet known.

Remepies.—Luckily this beetle has the same precautionary habits
of dropping to the ground, upon the slightest disturbance, as has the
plum curculio, and this habit enables us readily to keep it in check.
The most efficient way of doing this is by the aid of chickens. Mr.
Paschell, of Hermann, on whose vines this beetle has been exceec-
ingly numerous, raised a large brood of chickens in 1867, and had them
so well trained that all he had to do was to start them in the vineyard
with a boy in front to shake the vines, and he himself behind the
chicks. They picked up every beetle which fell to the ground, and
in this manner he kept the vines soclean that he could scarcely find
a beetle in 1868.

Professor Riley remarks that it is one of the worst foes the grape-
grower has to contend with in Missouri; it has also been found in
some vineyards in I[1linois.

DorYPHORA TEN-LINEATA—Say. (The Colorado or Ten-striped Potato-
beetle.)

Synonyms.—Chrysomela 10-lineata, Polygramma 10-lineata, Myocoryna
10-linéata.

This destructive and notorious »otato-beetle as will be seen by the
above list of synonyms, although retaining without change its specific
name,10-lineata or decem-lineata, given by Say inconsequence of ten black
lines on its wing-cases, has been placed in various genera. Although
the most recent catalogue of North American Coleoptera (that by
Crotch) plaées it in Chrysomela, I prefer retaining the generic name,
Doryphora, by which it is now almost as well known as by its common
name.

In my premium essay on “ Insects Injurious,” to vegetation in Illi-
nois, written in 1862, but unfortunately not published by the State
Agricultural Society until 1865, I named it the “Ten-striped Potato-

*Since the above was written I have met with it.

161

beetle,” which is much more appropriate than the “Colorado potato-
beetle,’ which is now so generally applied, although no more applica-
ble than Nebraska or Iowa Potato-beetle.

_I will give here only descriptions of it in.the various stages of its
life and a short summary of the remedies proposed, referring the reader
to “General Remarks” at the end of the report for a more extended
Bory of its career in the United States, and of the remedies pro-
posed.

It is broadly oval inform and very convex, giving it an almost hem
ispherical shape; the length varies from three-fifths to three-fourths of
an inch, the width across the widest part from one-fifth to a little over
one-fourth of an inch; the thorax issomewhat broader than it is long ;
antenne slightly enlarged toward the tip. The general color varies
from a pale lemon to an orange yellow; the head has a round, black
spot in the middle; the thorax is marked with several black dots and
short stripes, the two middle ones being the largest ; each wing-case is
marked with five very distinct longitudinal black stripes or lines, mak-
ing ten on the two, hence the name 0-lineata or 10-lined.

The only species with which this is likely to be confounded is
Doryphora juncta, which, in the beetle state, is so very similar in ap-
pearance that they were for a long time supposed by entomologists to
be one and the same species. In juncta the two inner stripes on each
wing-case are united at the tip, while in the 10-lineata these are sepa-
rate, and the second and third counting from the middle are united at
the tip. The leg of juncta has ablack spot on the thigh, which is want-
ing in 10-lineata.

The larvee of the two species are also much alike in form, but show
more distinct differences than the beetles. That of the Colorado
potato-beetle at first is almost black, but shortly becomes lighter,
changing toward a yellow; in about two weeks it reaches maturity. .
At this period it is of a yellowish color, varying in intensity in differ-
ent individuals from pale yellow to a deep orange color; the head and
legs are black, and the hind part of the first segment behind the head
is also black, while the other part of this segment is yellow ; there are
two rows of black spots along each side of the body. It is thick, fleshy,
much enlarged, and strongly arched behind the middle; has six true
legs situated on the first three segments, and uses the tip of the last
segment asa kind of pro-leg in progression. Length about half an
inch.

The full grown larva of juncta is similar in form, size and general
appearance, but differs as follows: the head is pale, the first segment
is reddish-brown, edged all around with black; and there is but one
row of black dots along in each side. When young the color is some-
what different, the head being brown, and two rows of dots along the
sides.

These differences, combined with the habits of the two species, will
enable any one to distinguish the genuine from the bogus potato

beetle.
: The true potato-beetle (10-lineata) is otherwise readily distin-
guished by its love for the potato plant, which so far the other has
not manifested, preferring its rough homely diet—the horse nettle.

E—11

162

This insect (the ten-lined or Colorado beetle) passes the winter in ©
the pupa state in the ground, and comes forth in the beetle state in
the spring, usually in May.

The eggs, after being deposited on the leaves of the potato, hatch |
out in about a week, and the young larvae at once commence devour-
ing the leaves, being most voracious feeders. In about two weeks, as —
a general rule, they attain their full growth, cease eating and enter ©
the ground in order to undergo their transformations. In three or —
four days they change into pupae or chrysalids, and in ten or twelve
days thereafter the perfect beetles make their appearance, makin
about five weeks from the time the eggs are deposited until the beetle
appears. In Illinois, there are usually about three broods in the year;
yet there does not appear to be any great regularity as to broods taken
in mass; that is to say, the various changes and transformations of
individuals are not simultaneous, as beetles, larvae and eggs may
often all be seen at the same time.

In addition to the potato, this insect, when very abundant also eats
the following plants: The common thistle, (Cirsiwm lanceolatum), pig-
weed (Amaranthus retroflerus), hedge mustard (Sisimbriwm officinale),
oats, knotweed, red currant, tomato, nightshade and lambs-quarter.

Natural Enemies.—Fortunately for our farmers and gardeners, and for
all who love potatoes, this dreaded foe had hardly commenced its
grand march to the Atlantic, when, one after another, insect friends
began to appear upon the field of battle as our allies, not in sufficient
numbers to stay the march of the vast hosts, yet sufficient to render
good service in harrassing the flank and in thinning out the stragglers.
Although there is but one real parasite in the long list of as ene-
mies (Lydella doryphorae,) yet they must ultimately assist very mate-
rially in keeping it in check; and now that the great tidal wave has
passed beyond our State, I have little doubt but that this formidable
pest will gradually sink in notoriety from a first class obnoxious spe-
cies to second or third class, and perhaps even become less troublesome
than our old potato insects. '

The following is a list of the species which have been found de-
stroying this insect, chiefly while it is in the larvae state :

CoLEopTeRA.—1. Tetracha virginica, Hope. 2. Pasimachus elongatus,
Lec. 3. Calasoma calidum, Fabr. 4. Harpalus caliginosus,Say. 5. Le-
bia grandis. 6. Philonthus,? sp. 7. Epicauta cinerea, Fabr. 8. Epicau-
ta vittata, Fabr. 9. Hippodamia maculata, DeG. 10. Hippodamia 13-
. punctata. 11. Hippodamia convergens—Hippodamia glacialis. 12. Coccin-
ella 9-notata. 13. Mysta 15-punctata,

Hemiptera.—14. Reduvius raptatores,Say. 15. Arma spinosa,Dallas.
16. Harpactor cvnctus, Fabr. 17. Coreus tristis, DeG. 18. Perillus circum-
cinctus,Say. 19. Stiretrus fimbriatus, Say.
oe Promachus apivorus, Fitch. 21. Lydella doryphorae,

iley.

ARACHNIDA.—22, Phalangiwum, —, ?. 2

Of these insects Nos. 1, 2,3, 4, and 6 are ground beetles and are
predaceous, both in the larva and perfect state, and prey upon the
potato beetles and their larve, chiefly while they are on the ground
undergoing their transformations.

No. 5 (Lebia grandis) attacks them on the vines, and from all the

163

evidence I have been able to obtain appears to be one of our most val-
uable aids in the war against this pest. This species, asalso Calosoma
calidum, Pasimachus elongatus, and Harpalus caliginosus, will be found
described in the previous part of this report.

Nos. 7 and 8 have been heretofore described, and are themselves
obnoxious species, depredating upon the potato also. The testimony
in their behalf is not sufficient to warrant our showing any favor to
them, and my advice is not to trust them, but to destroy them
wherever and whenever found.

The five other beetles, Nos. 9 to 13, are Lady-bugs, and are valuable
friends, and should be carefully preserved.

Nos. 14 to 19 are true bugs, which attack and kill the potato
beetles by piercing them with their beaks and extracting their
juices.

No. 20 (Promachus apivorus) is a large, predaceous, two-winged fly,
called the “Nebraska bee-killer,” which attacks indiscriminately almost
every insect that comes in its way, and has been noticed attacking
and killing the potato beetle.

No. 24 (Lydella doryphorx) is also a two-winged fly, closely resem-
bling in color and size the common house fly, having, however, a
bright, silver-white face by which it may readily be distinguished.
It deposits its eggs in the body of the larva, and is a true parasite.

{EMEDIES.—I shall not attempt to enumerate here the various arti-
ficial remedies which have been proposed and tried for the purpose of
destroying or driving off these troublesome insects, most of which are
entirely worthless. There are, in fact, but two reliable ones—hand-
picking and the use of Parisgreen. The former method may answer
very well where but a small patch is to be protected, but where the
area in cultivation is any-ways large the latter is really the only
practically remedy, and fortunately it will to a great extent accom-
plish the work if properly and vigorously applied. Two principal
methods of application have been adopted, one in powder, the other
in solution.

When the Paris green is applied in powder Dr. Le Baron suggests
the following precautions, in order to prevent any injurious effects:

1. Always dilute the poison with at least ten times its bulk of
flour.

2. Apply it to the plants when wet with dew or rain.

3. Never entrust its use to young or careless persons.

4. Never use it near the house where young children resort.

5. Apply it with a gauze bag or some other sifter attached to the
end of a pole.

6. Let the operator always keep on the side from which the wind
is blowing.

7. Do notapply it to the plant where it will come in contact with
the fruit.

In applying it in powder there should always be from ten to twelve
parts of common flour to one part of Paris green.

Recent experience appears to give decided preference to the appli-
cation in liquid solution, especially since improved methods of apply-
ing it in this form have been invented.

This not only avoids the danger of inhaling the powder, but it has
the advantage of rendering it more certain that the application will

164

reach the insects. When used in this way about one tablespoonful of
the Paris green is dissolved in a bucketful of water, and is sprinkled
over the vines by means of an ordinary sprinkler, old broom, or some
of the patented sprinklers or spray machines now so common.

Caution should always be used in handling the Paris green, as it is
quite poisonous, and it should never be left where children can have
access to it, nor should they ever be allowed to use it, its poisonous
quality being the chief objection to its use.

A fuller account of this species, its natural enemies, and the various
remedies used, will be found in the “General Remarks,” at the end of
this report.

CurysocHus AURATUS—Fabr. (The Golden Chrysochus.)

This species is not introduced here because it is injurious to useful
vegetation, for it feeds almost exclusively on the leaves of the dog’s-
bane (Apocynum androsemifolium), but on account of its great beauty
and common occurrence throughout our State.

It varies in length from about three-eighths to nearly or quite half
an inch, the width ‘across the elytra about equal to half the length;
the body thick and very convex above. Thorax narrower than the
elytra, squarely truncated behind, rounded and nearly semi-circular
in front ; very convex. Antenne nearly half the length of the body,
slightly enlarged toward the tip. Elytra not striate, but slightly
punctured, and smooth. Color a beautiful shining, golden green,
without spot or stripe, often varied on the elytra to bright coppery
reflection ; the under side dark green, with bluish reflections, often
deepened almost to black or blue-black; mouth parts and antenne
black ; legs dark green or blue-black; pads of the tarsi tawny or buff.

CoLASPIS FLAVIDA—Say. (The Grape-vine Colaspis.)

This is a quite small insect, scarcely one-fifth of an inch long, of the
usual oval form, the width about half the length ; thorax nearly as
wide behind as the elytra, a slight transverse depression in front;
elytra or wing-cases distinctly grooved, there. being six or seven
grooves on each case (six complete, or seven, including the incom-
plete), each with a double row of punctures in it. Ofa clay-yellow
color, usually without stripe or markings; the underside is a little
deeper color than the upper side; the tips of the antenne are usually
black, and sometimes the margins of the elytraare dark.

This is more common in the Eastern States than in the West, but
we evidently have one or two varieties quite common in the West ;
what injury they do I am unable to say; but as this species is found
on the wild grapes, and has been known occasionally to attack the
cultivated vines, riddling the leaves with holes, it is more than prob-
able that our grapes suffer more or less from them.

According to Riley, the larve devour and work into the roots of the
strawberry plant, and, having passed the winter there, appear in
June or July in the beetle state, feeding in this state first upon the
strawberry leaves, and afterward spreading to the grape vines. The
following is his description of the larva.

Larva—Color yellowish; body slightly arched; anal joints smaller
than the others. First joint horny above and of the same color as

165

head. Dorsum with about three wrinkles to each joint and sparsely
clothed with yellowish hairs each springing from a minute, rufous, pol-
ished point. Stigmatal line on eachside, rufous, the first between joints
one and two, the others placed on a lateral series of swellings, com-
mencing with joint four. Joints four to eleven inclusive, each with
eight sub-stigmatical, concolorous, shiny plates, the upper row lateral
and divided from the second by a iongitudinal depression, the second:
row forming tubercles, which are retracted or projected at will. Head
honey yellow, rounded, slightly flattened in front; epistoma and lab-
rum of same color; mandibles darker, triangular, with the inner edge
slightly excavated near the tip; antennz apparently two-jointed, short,
and with the terminal joint often bifid; maxille well developed, the
inner lobe furnished with strong hairs; maxillary palpi prominent:
four-jointed; labium sub-obsolete; labial palpi forming simply two
small piliferous tubercles. Legs scaly, pale, setous, and terminating
in a brown claw. Anal joint not horny below. Length 25-30 inch.

Of the species of this family (Chrysomelida) so far mentioned, Lema
trilineata and Criocerus asparagi belong to the sub-family Chrysomeline.
The sub-family Calerucine, as given in the table copied from Dr. Le
Baron’s report, contains two somewhat distinct groups, which might
very properly, as is done by most entomologists, be separated into two
sub-families, as follows:

A. Galerucine. Hind thighs not thickened, and not adapted to
leaping.

AA. Halticine. Hind thighs thickened and adapted to leaping.

The first of the following species belongs to the former, the next
species to the latter group.

DIABROTICA viTTATA. Oliv. The Striped Cucumber Beetle.)

[Fig. 27.] This species is very destructive [Fig. 28.]
As ~ tothe cucumber, melon and squash,
attacking the roots and boring into
the lower part of the stem in the
larval or grub state, while the per
fect beetle feeds on the tender
(p1asnotrea) leaves while the plants are young
vitrata, Fr and on the buds and young shoots
e striped 2
Cucumber Of the older plants. It is very
Beetle. common and often inflicts heavy
damage on the vegetable gardener by
its depredations. It is nearly one-quarter of
an inch long and half as wide; of a bright or
pale yellow ground color; the head is usually
black, but not always, as it is sometimes yel- |
low; the thorax yellow, with two black dots
near the middle; wing-cases with a rather SPORT TEE Sim
broad black stripe along the middle of each, greatly magnified, the side lines
and a narrow black border entirely around Spowine ie eee Crewe > wid
each. view.
The beetles make their appearance in the spring from the middle
of April to early in June, according to latitude, feeding for a short

166

time on the tender leaves of various plants until the cucumber plants
begin to develop, then they turn their attention to these. After they
have paired, the female deposits her eggs near the roots of the vines;
the grub which hatches from these is very slender, and when full
grown is about one-third of an inch long and not thicker than an
ordinary knitting-needle. As soonas hatched the worm commences
to work upon the stem, eating the bark and perforating and hollowing
out the lower portion of the stem which is in the ground, sometimes
even working up above the surface. In about a month, according to
Dr. Shimer, from the time the egg is laid the larva completes its
growth; * they then enter the earth and form little cells, where they
enter upon the pupa state, which lasts about a fortnight before they
are transformed into beetles.

J
There are about three broods each year, the last of which passes the
winter in the pupa state in the ground.

Remepies.—Among the older remedies recommended and either
thoroughly or partially tried, we may mention the following: Treat-
ing the vines with a solution of Glauber salts, tobacco water, infusion
of elder, walnut leaves, etc.; applications of ground Plaster of Paris,
powdered soot, sulphur, snuff, aloes, etc.; placing burning torches
among the vines at night, etc. But at present there are but two
remedial agencies which are considered worthy of trial. One is to
cover the young vines with boxes open at the bottom and covered on
the top with millinet or some kind of open gauze. The other is
sprinkling the vines with Paris green and flour, or the Paris green
solution as prescribed for the Colorado potato beetle. White hillebore
is considered by many as equal to Paris green. ,

Spec. char. Imago.—Head small, a shining black ; antenne about half
the length of the body, pale-yellow at the base and dusky at the tips;
thorax a glossy yellow, not punctured; an indentation each side of
the middle ; it is wider than the head but narrower than the elytra.
Elytra pale-yellow with black stripes arranged thus: one broad black
stripe along the center of each elytron, not reaching quite to the tip,
and a black line down the dorsal suture, partly on each elytron ; they
are striate and punctured in the striae with apparently double rows
of punctures, very regularly and closely placed. Length, about one-
fourth of an inch ; width, about one-ninth. The sexes differ a little
in size, the male being smaller than the female.

DraBprotica 12-PUNCTATA—F abr.

This species is very similar in size and shape to the preceding, but
is easily distinguished by the difference in coloration. I have found
it in considerable numbers about gardens and cultivated grounds, but
so far have not discovered it inflicting any particular injury, though
it is stated that it is often found feeding upon the rinds of melons,
cucumbers and squashes.

Spec. char. Imago.—Head black, with an indentation on the front;

* It is stated by the editors of the ‘‘American Entomologist,’’ Vol. If, p 24, (October, 1869,) that
Dr. Shimer’s account of the transformation of thisjspecies, published in the ‘Prairie Farmer,”
August 12, 1865, was “‘the first pullished account” of it. Yet, Dr. Asa Fitch’s very full history of
its transformations, with figures, appears in the Transactions of the New York State Agricultural
Society for 1864, published certainly in the early part of 1865.

167

antennae pale at base, remainder dusky; thorax narrower than the
elytra, yellow, smooth, not punctured, two central indentations; ely-
tra yellow, not punctured, with six, oblong, black spots on each ely-
tron, placed two-and-two side by side; posterior breast black ; abdo-
men yellow; basal half of the thighs yellow; remainder of the legs
black ; length one-fourth of an inch ; width nearly one-eighth.

BLEPHARIDA RHOIS—Forst. (The Jumping Sumach-beetle.)

This and the two following species belong to the group Halticini or
flea-beetles, so-called from their small size and leaping habits. This
species, which is one of our largest species of the group, is about one-
fourth of an inch long, and nearly two-thirds as broad, regularly oval
in shape; the claws of the feet are bified or split, which distinguishes
the genus to which it belongs from all the rest of our flea-beetles. It
is regularly oval in form and convex, of rust or reddish-brown color ;
the head and thorax yellow; wing cases with eleven rows of large
punctures, irregularly mottled with yellow; antenne black. It is
very variable in color, the head and thorax sometimes being a bright,
shining green or greenish yellow, and the wing-cases dark brown, with
whitish mottlings.

Prof. Riley has ascertained that it depredates upon the various
species of wild sumach, and also the smoke tree or Venetian sumach ;
the larvee eating the leaves, and thus defoliating the trees.

The larva when full grown is about half an inch long, lubberly in
shape, being smallest in front and gradually increasing in size back-
wards; of a yellow color, with paler stripes of the same color ; head
small] and black. This larva has the habit of covering itself with its
own excrement while feeding, probably as a protection against birds.

According to Riley, who first traced the transformations of this
species, the eggs are laid in little pellets of excrement, which are
fastened to the stém or branches, occasionally on the leaves. The
species is two brooded, passing the winter in the perfect state and ap-
pearing early in the spring. He recommends jarring as a means of
catching the beetles and destroying them.

Haurica (Epitrix) cucumerits—Harr. (The Cucumber or Hairy
Flea-beetle.)

This minute species, which is only about one-sixteenth of an inch
long, is of a black color, with clay-yellow antenne and legs, except the
hind thighs, which are brown. It feeds in the perfect state on a
variety of vegetables, notably the potato and cucumber, eating round
holes in the leaves, not always penetrating through, but only into the
substance of the leaf. The larva, which are minute, slender grubs,
reside in the substance of the leaf, forming slender worm-like furrows.
Sometimes they appear in such numbers as to affect materially the
health of the plants attacked, but usually the injury is slight.

The remedies applicable to the Striped Flea-beetle hereafter men-
tioned, will answer equally well with this species.

It is proper to remark that Dr. Fitch contends, notwithstanding the
doubt expressed by Dr. LeConte and others, that this and H. pubescens
are the same, Under which name he gives his account of its habits,
changing the common name so as to accord with the scientific name.

168

He also gives it as his opinion that while this is undoubtedly the
species which injures the potato, it is another very similar species,
| Psylliodes pwnctulata, that attacks the cucumber leaves.

This species is especially common and injurious to potatoes in
Southern Illinois.

Spec. char. Imago.—It is oval, convex, black and opaque or destitute
of any glossiness; clothed with thin, short, whitish pubescence;
head black ; eyes prominent; antennae of a clay-yellow color, clavate
and ten-jointed, the two basal joints elongated, the third joint a lit-
tle shorter, the tips tinged with dusky. The body is covered with
fine punctures, and the thorax shows a transverse groove near the
base. The wing covers have eight rows of coarse punctures placed in
slightly impressed furrows, with a shorter similarly punctured fur-
row on each side of the scutel. The legs are clay-yellow, with the
thighs, at least the hind pair, blackish-brown and very thick; the
shanks are rather short, the internal angle forming a curved lobe at
the apex, which is cut off obliquely; the hind pair of feet are long
and inserted on the inside of the shank, with the basal joint as long
as all the others united.

Hatrica (PsyLuiopps) punctuLAtTA—Melsh. (The Punctulated Flea-
beetle.)

This is evidently very closely allied to the preceding, although
placed in a different genus by Dr. Fitch, in which he is followed by
Crotch in his Check List. It is similar in size and form to the pre-
ceding, of a brassy-black color, and minutely punctured, with its
shanks or tibiae, feet and basal joints of the antennae pale-yellowish.
The thorax is usually very finely punctured, though these are some-
times not apparent.

Dr. Fitch says this is the species usually found on the cucumber
vines in New York, though quite common on other garden vegetables,
eating holes into the pulp of the leaves, but not penetrating through.

Haurica (ORcHESTRIS) virrAtA—Fabr. (The Striped Flea-beetle.)

This is the most troublesome species of the group now under con- ©
sideration ; found in the garden during the greater part of the season,
attacking the various species of cruciforous plants, such as the cab-
bage, radish, mustard, turnip, etc.,eating intoand perforating the leaves,
thereby doing great injury, especially to young plants; it also riddles
the leaves of young radishes in the spring. Even flowering plants

~do not all escape, as the Ten Weeks Stock, Virginia Stock, and, some
others, also, suffer from the attacks of this lilliputian foe, which is
scarcely one-tenth of an inch long, and about half as broad.

They are of a shining black color, oval in form, broadest at the
shoulders; the hind thighs as in the other species of Haltica enlarged,
by which they are enabled to make strong leaps. The surface is
marked with very minute shallow punctures; on the middle of each
wing-case is a comparatively broad, irregular, yellowish stripe, ex-
tending from the shoulder nearly to the tip.

Dr. Fitch, without actually tracing this species through its trans-

169

formations, describes after Le Keux the history of the Heltica nemorwm,
a European species scarcely separable from this, supposing the two
to have the same habits; but the accurate observations of Dr. Shimer
have shown this to be a mistake, as the larve of the European spe-
cies reside in the leaves of vegetables; those of ouy species live under
ground, feeding on the roots of-plants in the same manner as the
striped cucumber beetle, (Diabrotica vittata.)

The larva is a minute, slender grub, with six tiny feet on the three
anterior segments and an anal pro-leg; white with a faint, dark me-
dial line along the anterior part of the body; a horny, light-brown
head, and a brown spot on the posterior extremity. This state lasts
about seventeen days, when it changes into a naked white pupa in
a little earthen cocoon near its feeding place, in which it remains but
a short time. From the observations made, Dr. Shimer is of the opin-
ion that they live exclusively on the roots and underground stems of
crucifreous plants.

Remepies.—Powdered lime, which has frequently been recom-
mended, appears on trial to be but a partial remedy ; if sprinkled on
the plants when the dew is on them it appears to impede the move-
ments of the insects and thus assists in driving them away. A s0o-
lution of lime is considered in England one of the best remedies for
its congenor, the turnip flea-beetle. It is probable there are various
applications of this nature which will prove beneficial, and no doubt
Paris green would be almost if not quite a specific; but I cannot re-
commend its use upon such vegetables as cabbage, mustard, etc., where
the part above ground is to be used, even though it be applied when
the plants are young, although with proper care there is probably no
danger in such cases.

Spec. char. Imago.—Head small and deeply sunk into the thorax;
antenne inserted near to each other in the middle of the face, about
half the length of the body, and slightly enlarged toward the tips,
composed of eleven joints. Thorax transverse, that is broader than
long; sides rounded; about two-thirds the width of the elytra or
wing-cases. The wing-cases when closed are oval in shape, very
slightly narrowing posteriorly and rounded at the tip, and not striated.
It is of a shining ,black color, each wing-case marked with a rather
broad, yellow stripe which runs from the shoulder nearly to the tip;
slightly and regularly curved outward near each end and inward 1n
the middle portion, occupying the middle third of each case, but
slightly narrowed and interrupted near the middle portion. Legs
black, with the knees and feet pale.

170
Ha.tica (GRAPTODERA) CHALYBEA. Il. (The Grape-vine Flea-beetle.)

[Fig. 29.] This is the well-known little
blue flea beetle, which infests
the grape-vines, feeding on the
buds in the earlier part of the
season; and when the leaves
have expanded transferring its
attacks to them. It measures
a little over one-eighth of an
inch in length, the width be-
ing just half the length. The
thorax is but little narrower
than the wing-cases, being
fully three-fourths as broad as
the latter; it is marked with a
cross furrow. It is usually
steel-blue, but the color varies
considerably, the shade of blue
varying from violet to deep
blue and even to green; the
antenne and feet being black
or blackish.

‘HALTICA (GRAPTODERA) CHALYBEA, Illiger.—Grape- They pass the winter in the
Vine flea beste; a, grape leaf eaten by young larve: b beetle state wherever they can
transforms; d, beetle. find shelter in the-vineyard or
in the vicinity of grape-vines. As soon as the warmth of spring
arouses them to activity they commence operations on the buds, and
as soon as the leaves expand they deposit their minute orange-colored
eggs upon them. From these are hatched dark brown larve, usually
in the latter part of May or early part of June. These usually feed
on the upper side of the leaves, which they eat into holes, com-
pletely riddling them when numerous. When full grown they de-
scend into the ground in order to undergo their transformations, the
eG brood of beetles appearing the latter part of June or first part
of July.

They feed on wild and cultivated grape-vines and the alder.

LarvA—Length 0.85 inch. Head polished black. Body livid
brown above, paler beneath, sub-cylindrical, the joints bulging,
especially at the sides, and each divided superiorly into two transverse
folds, on each fold a row of six shiny, black, elevated spots, the dorsal
ones larger than the others, and often (especially the posterior two)
confluent or divided only by a very narrow dorsal line, each spot giy-
ing rise to a single short, stiff hair, one sub-stigmatal black spot
placed in middle of joint and more elongated than the rest, being
apparently composed of two confluent ones, as it gives rise to two
hairs. Three ventral spots, one anteriorly, which is large, transversely
elongate, central and without hairs, and two posteriorly, one each side,
which are small and piliferous; six black thoracic legs, and one anal
orange pro-leg.—[Riley.

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The foregoing includes all the species of this family (Chrysomelide)
which are deemed of sufficient importance to be mentioned here on

Lit

account of the injuries they commit (except the Cassidians, which are
quite distinct from those mentioned), yet there are many others of
the group which feed on other native plants. Of these, I mention
the following species, which often attract attention by its numbers.

GASTROPHYSA POLYGONI—Linn.

This beautiful little species is about three-twentieths of an inch
long, rather more than half as wide; the thorax nearly as wide as the
wing-covers. Its head, wing-covers and underside of the body, a bright,
polished greenish-blue color; thorax and legs an orange-red ; the first
joint of the antenne brownish, the rest dull black; feet black.

It feeds both in the beetle and larva state on the common knot-

weed, and although sometimes appearing in large numbers, does not,
so far as known, injure any useful plant; yet it is possible it may at-
tack buckwheat.

CassEDIN«/. (Tortoise-beetle.)

The various species of the sub-family. Cassidine are ieadily distin
euished by the circular form of the body, which is somewhat depressed,
haying the margin of the thorax thinned and expanded so as to extend
over the head and anterior legs in a thin plate-like form, and the
wing-cases also expanded in a similar manner, presenting very much
the appearance of a common soft-shelled turtle, on which account
they are often very aptly described as “ turtle-shaped beetles.” As all
these species feed upon sweet-poetato vines, confining their attacks
almost exclusively to Corvolvulaceous plants, and so far as useful and
ornamental plants are concerned, to the sweet-potato and morning-
glory, we may give a general account of their transformations and
habits, and very brief descriptions of the beetles.

The larva which feed upon the sweet-potato are broad, oval in
shape, and flattened, thinned toward the lateral margins, which are
furnished with a single row of prominent spines, which are often
numerously barbed. According to Riley there are always (in the
genera cassida and Coptocycla, which include these species) thirty-two
of these spines, sixteen on each side.

The fore part of the body is projected over the head, which is small
and retractile. They have the usual six thoracic legs on the first
three segments; the last segment has projecting from its tip a forked
prolongation which it has the power of turning over the back; this
it loads with its own excrement and then holds over the back, as sup-
posed by many, as a kind of sun shade, but more likely as a protec-
tion, from insect-eating birds.

They continue in the larval state for about three weeks, and when
fully grown attach themselves by the posterior end of the body to the
underside of a leaf, change to the pupa state, and in about a week
come forth in the beetle state.

172
CassIDA BIVITTATA—Say. (The Two-Striped Tortoise-beetle.)

Orbicular; yellowish, with two black
stripes on each wing-case ; outer qne
longest and undulate. Larva dull yellow-
ish-white; does not use the anal fork as ©
an excrement bearer. Length, one-fifth
of an inch. \

[Fig. 30.]

CASSIDA BIVITTATA, Say. 2, larva; 3,
pupa; 4, beetle.

CasstpA (CoprocycLa) AURICHALCEA—Fabr. (The Golden Tortoise-
beetle.)

When living, this is a most beautiful object, looking more like a
drop of liquid gold than anything else to which we ‘can compare it,
being of a uniform transparent golden color, without spot. It differs
from the following in being a little more elongate in proportion to
the width. Length, about the same as the preceding. Larva dark
brown, with a paler shade on the back ; anal fork bearing excrement.

CassipA (CoptocycLa) guTTaTaA—Oliv. (The Mottled Tortoise-beetle.)

Color varies from uniform glossy black to gold mottled and even
golden color. Broadly oval—nearly orbicular. Length one-fifth of an
inch. Larva uniform green, with a bluish shade on the back ; anal
fork bearing excrement.

CASSIDA NIGRIPES—Oliy. (The Black-legged Tortoise-beetle.)

This species, which is larger than either of those already men-
tioned, has the power of assuming a golden hue, but is not so brilliant
as C. aurichalcea. It is distinguished by its larger size, black legs, and
three black.spots on each wing-case. Length nearly one-third of an
inch; width three-fourths its length. Larva pale straw-color, with
the spines long and tipped with black.

This concludes my account of the injurious Coleoptera of Illinois,
but there is another family to which I desire to call attention, on ac-
count of the important service rendered by its species in destroying
small injurious species, especially plant and bark lice; this is Coccin-
ellidz, or the lady-bird family.

COCCINELLIDA. (Lady-birds.)

Is distinguished by having all the feet three-jointed, or, at least,
apparently so; the body rounded and hemispherical in form; the an-
tenne enlarged at the tips, and the last joint of the maxillary palpi
broad and hatchet-shaped ; the coloration consisting usually of a red
or yellowish ground with black spots, or black ground with red or
yellow spots ; size small, Illinois species seldom exceeding a third of
an inch in length.

Our principal species may be briefly described as follows:

173
HIPPODAMIA (MEGILLA) MACULATA—DeG. (The Spotted Lady-bird.)

Body somewhat elongated; thorax much narrower than the wing-
cases and rounded on the margins, so as to leave a constriction or off-
set between it and the shoulders; ground color pink or reddish yel-
low; two black spots on the thorax, and ten on the wing cases—four
on each case and two on the suture. Length one-fourth to three-
tenths of an inch.

HIPPODAMIA 13-puNcTATA—Linn. (The Thirteen-Spotted Lady-bird.)

Regularly oval; color brick-red; head black, with a yellow spot in
front; thorax black in the middle, with broad yellow margins and a
black spot in each; wing-cases marked with thirteen black spots,
six on each case and one on the suture near the front. Length about
one-fifth of an inch.

HippopAMIA CONVERGENS—Guer. (The Convergent Lady-bird.)

BES) at. Length one-fourth of an inch, sub-orbicular in
form; head witha black band across the posterior
part ; thorax black with a yellow margin in front
and on the sides, and two yellow stripes converging
posteriorly ; wing-cases orange-yellow with six black
dots on each case; the one on the shoulder minute
Hirroparra convercens and often wanting.

qeet™ Pupsandbee- TT arva with blue, black and orange colors; when
full-grown, very similar in color to the larva of the Colorado potato-
beetle.

HippopAMIA GLACIALIS. (The Icy Lady-bird.)

Similar in form and size to the preceding, the head and thorax be-
ing similarly colored and marked. ‘Wing-cases a deeper orange-color,
with three rather large dots on the posterior half of each case, the
two anterior often run together, a minute dull black dot occasionally
on the shoulder but generally wanting.

CoccINELLA 9-NoTataA—H. (The Nine-spotted Lady-bird.)

Hemisphericai in form, length about one-fifth of an inch, Head
with the central portion yellow, the back part and sides black ; thorax
with anterior half yellow, posterior half black, a square projection of
the black, at the middle, into the yellow portion, wing-cases yellow
with four black spots on each, and one on the suture near the front.

CoccINELLA MuNDA—Say. (The Trim Lady-bird.)

Hemispherical, rather small. Thorax black in the middle, the an-
terior and lateral margins pale yellow, sometimes a black dot each
side of the central black portion; wing-cases without spots or marks,
of a uniform orange yellow, which color varies in different individuals
from pale orange yellow to orange red. Length scarcely one-fifth of an
inch.

174
CoccINELLA (CARMONIA) PictA—Rand. (The Pointed Lady-bird.)

Of small size, broadly oval or sub orbicular in form, length about
three-twentieths of an inch. Itis of a pale, clay yellow or straw
color; the thorax with numerous minute dots and markings of black;
a black stripe along the middle of each wing-case, that on the one
being connected with the other by two cross bands.

Larva dark, sooty brown, with a pale yellow stripe on the back.

Anatus 15-punctata—Oliy. (The Fifteen-spotted Lady-bird.)

This is our largest lady-bird, being about one-third of an inch long,
and hemispherical in form. Head black, with two yellow spots in
it near the hind margin; the yellow borders have a black notch in
them near the posterior corners ; wing-cases a dull brownish-yellow,
with seven black dots on each, and one near the suture at the front.
But this species varies greatly in its markings and color; the spots
on the elytra fading in different specimens through every grade from -
that described to none, or so obscure as to be indistinguishable; the
markings on the thorax vary to a similar degree; the ground color
varies from cream color, through chocolate yellow to deep dirty brown.
Larva jet black, with a paler stripe along each side and six rows of
long spines.

CHILOCORUS BIVULNERUS—Muls. (The Twice Stabbed Lady-bird.)

This species, which is such an efficient aid in destroying the pine-
leaf and other scale insects, is about one-fifth of an inch long, almost
perfectly hemispherical in shape, of a deep, polished black color, with
a single blood-red spot on. each wing-case. The larya is a dark gray
short grub, covered with spines or prickles.

In addition to these there are several other species that are found in
Illinois, all possessing similar habits to those named, but these will
suffice to illustrate the family characters so that a species belonging
to it may be known whenever seen.

The larve are rather short, somewhat thickened grubs, with numer-
ous prickles or spines, not in a single row along the side as in Casside,
but several rows; they are sometimes gaily colored, but usually rather
dull. They usually undergo their transformations on the plants
where they seek their prey.

AtebS aT

Of the trees, plants and other substances injured more or less by the
insects described in this report, with the scientific names of the
species injuring them placed opposite. The common names, descript-
ions and habits of each of these species may be found, by referring to
the place in the report where the species is described. The scientific
names may be found in the index.

Alder—Haltica chalybea.

Apple—Anisopteryx vernata (Canker worm),
Ithycerus noveboracensis (New York Weevil),
Anthonomus quadrigibbus (Apple Curculio),
Conotrachelus nenuphar (Plum Curculio),
Chrysobothris femorata (Fiat-headed Borer),
Saperda candida (Round-headed Borer),
Macrodactylus subspinosus (Rose-bug),

Ips 4-signatus, Epicaerus imbricatus,
Amphicerus bicaudatus, Sinoxylon basilaris,
Elaphidion parallelum, E, villosum(?) Tremex columbae, Phyllo-
phaga fusoa, P, fraterna, P, pilosicollis,
. Anomala varians, Huryomia melancholica,
E. inda, Prionus laticollis, Iucanus dama (?),
Alaus oculatus (?).

A pricot—Aegeria exitiosa, Conotrachelus nenuphar.

Ash—Clytus caprae.

Asparagus —Crioceris asparaqi.

Bacon—Dermestes lardarzus.

Balm of Gilead— Xyleutes robiniae, Prionus laticollis.

Bean—Bruchus obsoletus, B. granarius, Macrobasis unicolor.

Beech—Chrysobothris femorata, Dicerca divaricat.

Beets—Muamestra picta.

Blackberry—Aegeria rubi, Agrilus ruficollis.

Black Oak—Elaphidion villosum.

Books—Ptinus brunneus.

Box Elder—Chrysobothris femorata.

Bread—Anobium paniceum.

ree \

’

u INJURIOUS INSECTS.

Burr Oak—lIthycerus noveboracensis.
Cabbage—Caliica vittata, Murgantia histrionica,
Mamestra picta, (Wire-worms).
Cauliflower—Mamestra picta.
Cedar—Cylurgus dentatus.
Cherry—Macrodactylus subspinosus, Dicerca divaricata,
Ithycerus noveboracensis, Epicaerus imbricatus,
Chrysobothris femorata, Conotrachelus nenuphar.
Corn—Wire-worms, Caloptenus spreius, Sphenophorus zeae, Phyllophaga
fusca, P. fraterna, P. pilosicollis, Macrodactylus subspinosus ;
Army-worm (Leucania unipuncta).
Cork—Piinus brunneus.
Crab-apple—Anthonomus quadrigibbus.
Cucumber—Diabrotica vittata, D. 12-punctata, Haltica punctulata, H.
cucumeris.
Currant—Aegeria tipuliformis, Doryphora 10-lineata.
Decayed wood—Dynastes tityus, Lucanus elephas, L.dama, Alaus oculatus.
Dog’s-bane—Chrysochus auratus.
Elder—Macrodactylus subspinosus.
Elm—Saperda tridentata, Mugdalis armicollis, Termex columba, Phyllo-
phaga fusca, P. fraterna, P. pilosicollis.
Furs—(See Skins and Furs).
Gooseberry—Epicaerus imbricatus.
Grape—Colaspis flavida, Fidia viticida, Macrodactylus, subspinosus,
Anomala varians, A. lucicola, A. binotata, Pelidnota punctata,
Coeliodes inequalis, Prionus laticollis, P. imbricornis, Amphi-
cerus bicaudatus, Sinozylon basilaris, Calidum amoenum.

|
|
|
|

Grain— Tenebrioides mauritanica. e

Grass—Wire-worms, Army-worm, Phyllophaga fusca, P. fraterna, P.
pulosicollis. j

Hazel— Balaninus nasicus. ,

Haw—Conotrachelus crataegi.

Hawthorn—Saperda candida.

Hedge mustard—Doryphora, 10-lineata,

Hickory—Chrysobothris femorata, Dicerca lurida, Sinoxylon basilaris,
Scolytus 4-spinosus, Chion cinctus, Amphicerus bicaudatus.

Indigo-weed—Macrobasis wnicolor.

PS ee oe

June-berry—Saperda candida. q
Knot-weed—Doryphora 10-lineata, Gastrophysa polygont. |
Lambs-quarter—Doryphora. 10-lineata.

Linden—Saperda vestita.
Locust—Eburia quadrigeminata, Clytus robiniae, Xyleutes robiniae.
Lombardy-poplar— Phyllophaga fraterna, Prionus laticollis.

ae

INJURIOUS INSECTS. iit

Maple—Glytus “speciosus, \Aegeria acerni, Chysobothris fermoata, Phyllo-

phaga fraterna.

Meadows—Wire-worms, Army-worm, Phyllophaga fusca, P. fraterna,

P. pilosicollis.

Melons—Diabrotica vittata, D. 12-punctata.

Morning-Glory—Cassidinae.

Mountain-Ash—Chrysobothris femorata, Saperda candida.

Museums—Anthrenus musaeorum, Plinus fur.

Mustard—Doryphora 10-lineata,

Nectarines—Conotrachelus nenuphar:

Night-shade—Doryphora 10-lineata.

Nursery-stock—Phyllophaga fusca.

Oaks—Hlaphidion villosum, Tremet columba, Xyleutes robiniae, Chryso-
bothris femorata, Pandeleteius hilaris, Iacanus elephas, Phyllo-
phaga fraterna, P. pilosicollis, P. fusca.

Oats—Army-worm, Wire-worms, Caloptenus spretus.

Ox-eye Daisy—Macrodactylus subspinosus.

Pea—Ceramica picta, Bruchus pisis, Bruchus granartwus. :

Peach—Conotrachelus nenuphar,=Chrysobothris femorata, Dicerca divari-

cata, Amphicerus bicaudatus, Sinorylon basilaris, Aegeria
exitiosa, Ithycerus noveboracensis, Euryomia inda.

Pear—COonotrachelus crataegi, Anthonomus quadrigbbus, Conotrachelus
nenuphar, Ithycerus noveboracensis, Aegeria pyri, Chysobothris
femorata, Ips 4-signatus, Amphicerus bicaudatus, Platycerus quer-
cus, Prionus laticollis.

Pecan—Scolytus 4-spmmosus.

Pig-weed—Doryphora 10-lineata.

Pine—AHylobius pales, Pissodes strobi, Hylnrgus terebrans, Callidium
amoenum, Chalcophora virginiensis.

Plum—Oonotrachelus nenuphar, Anthonomus prunicida, Ithycerus nove-
borcaensis, Chrysobothris femorata, Macrodactylus subspinosus.

Poplar—Lucanus elephas.

Potato—Doryphora’ 10-lineata, Haltica cucumeris, Baridius’ trinotatus
(Wire-worms), Epicauta vittata, Epicauta cinerea, Lema tri-
lineata.

Pumpkins—Galeruca vittata.

Quince — Conotrachelus nenuphar, Saperda candida, Conotrachelus

crataedt.

Radish—Hatica vittata.

Raspberry—Agrilus ruficollis, Aegeria rubi, Selandria rubi.

Red-bud—Fidia viticida.

Red-Cedar—HAylurqus dentatus,

Red-Oak—Xylewles robiniae,

SNR h

IV INJURIOUS INSECTS.

Rose—Maerodactylus subspinosus.

Shag-bark Hickory—Sinoxylon basilaris.

Skins and Furs—Dermestes lardarius, attagenus pellio.

Soft-Maple—Chrysobothris femorata, Aegeria acerni.

Spinach— Mamestra picta.

Squash— Aegeria cucurbitae, Diabrotica vittata, Diabrotwca 12-punctata.

Strawberry—Analcis fragariae, Phyllophaga fusca, Colaspis flavida.

Sweet-briar—Serica vespertina.

Sweet-potato—Cassidazbivittata, Cassida}guttata, Cassida aurichalcea.

Sugar-maple—Clytus speciosus.

Sumach— Blephorida*rhois.

Sycamore—Tremex coluwmba.

Ten-weeks Stock—AHaltica vittata.

Thistle— Doryphora,10-lineata.

Thorn—Saperda candida.

Tomato—Doryphora 10-lineata.

Tulip-tree—Lucanus elephas.

Turnip—Wire-worms, Haltica vittata.

Virginia-Cree per—Pelidnota punctata.

Virginia-Stock—Haltica vittata.

Wheat—Wire-worms, Caloptenus spretus, Army-worm, Agriotes mancus.

White-Oak—Chrysobothris femorata, Elaphidion villosum, Pandeleteius
hilaris.

White-Pine—Pissodes strobt.

Willow—Lucanus dama.

a

—————

ety od

/Egeria acerni....

COCUMD IGG Airs caccvatwuncsacusants ce nereaienokacusenh mage orntne 40
PHERURE OSE cere wet vesavoct caamdeedvecrtioes . ol
DAV eee Glcth neces seucxessencaresee . 48
LUST D te teete era tees octet cca en nO hac Seaatesaqaacieen acumen’ 40
PUNTA ELOTININ ysectsovs a vessescedesteaecusies costsavsuanectsivasten 39
PNET S TAGOTRLISS:-fccccevecsmnces toes 114
FUITACO UNIS teratuiecscnsccscacressensassieeas 114
PAOLO TE SUMITSUI CUS: vccenstesinieiie=viveeavesasicicesaavenss 118
PAUER USE O CTU UES sas eveninsesssccavaseeveyayaacunasscxcer «cress 116
Anatus 15-punctata... 174
EATUESO PUCTY EX SV CLOUT. os <sescckslpeadsterenasesncvsseledtics 16
Anobium paniceum...... 2
Anomala binotata.....

SPUN cee peswaccazvecsseusvalessse

WARIO CANS 235s ap Oates ae UR sadteGadeonateseee
Anthonomus prunicida................ ‘
CU TNAOUT TE US: os Josises a sn'enceséso se sseeeee ‘ 135
Anthrenus musaeorum... ........ aH
INGA CICITEUIO....cccerseacceee «18d
Tree borers.. ..110
DAMRUY, WOLD <.cc0csca-ccoseatvase - 56
ASh-pray Dlister-Deetle..... ....ccc..cccscovesceescesssees 126
PARE RUCEMLIQUGL ctr.csce ce nce iep seemcccaesemccsuelwentepeps cease 151
Asparagus beetle.. EBS AOS UEC 158
Aspido-glossa subangulata... itt
TPA RCS CLIO. .cccayse-csees cxveroere Cocusccotneeecn nea 92
PSM LTDEL ITER HRICUIS: s ccscceseauscdnscoeuscosveaendvecssunsshae 134
Baridius trinotatus..... ..142
Bean weevil............ 128
ERI eee nee tet cad ctadds na sevsedseusseuones ccoussdevsrcenaae 15
Black-legged tortoise-beetle .... ..........20006 lee
BIOMHOMOG TROIS... .isc..cesceccecccseee 167
BRSpOI OW POOL Cr eccsosrsnonse pnecssivcreescesetnacecevievenss 125
NS GONS cov: ureacesn seems xe 146
Hataeunl MEIN ITONIS nacscstsclce<avscaweerserscwassvsscanccets 146
SOR URICIUUS DICH UCATUS ccc ecsceosens ctenseescnseescorees 123
tN S er ee ner a ea cccn seas ceuvesccuekbecsesceesentsr acasineney 120
Broad-necked Prionus. 147
RSPR OCRI TESTA) AG seacceadecccas scanner cuccaesanscsodsestesestnes 128
MIMENGUTSIUES coetn ad cette: Nace verses sscndtersesscnucconsncacatne :
WBSOLCUUS: (052.2002 .05005

RAAGUMEeE Porat oicsccsvasccvaecssacecéictslens="svercevacesececson

MRC NUTURTID AUT OCLIULIN «2 0. .ca0) ¢nsnssvecssecesccongncnnan) nee
SUPOIVIERURWIOTINL.« cccccacpacss cas ones
Caloptenus spretus.
Calosoma calidum.
Serutator
Cassida aurichalcea...
SY MMMM osc0cxcinaues0ccceecs.6
Guttata
Nigripes
Chalcophora virginiensis...
Cherry-tree borer............
Chilocorus bivulnerus,
Chion cinctus......
AG AI OMONGUMM eres sacs scveeessencdes soe ee
Chrysobothris femorata..
Chrysochus auratus.......
Chrysomela 10-lineata......
Cicindela 6-guttata,....
SUITE MSRINA) Sc .5t cussacevesnmecdsetossccssbn's
iGlytas caprae......
- Robiniae...
Speciosus........
_ Coccinella 9-no

seeeeeee

PAGE.
TCU ob an eosisc cee sasten. saseaanaithoven capare mae iensrncuanmaee 174
GoelHOGES INGO UALIB.-..cccccrsissebzabcnts<oess-neseyemnm 142
Coluspis flavida......... 164
Colorado potato-beetle............00+0++ ..160
Conotrachelus walang savaateered 141
Nenuphar.. Gidenenbwdsetaeasaddamess «187
haven lady- “bird... 178
Corn CUneUIIO viet scnrsnessuvseranasesct 144
GRIOCELIS \DEOATAGCL cc.nnnxcvcssvesaesecens 158
Cucumber fiea—beetle.............ccssessseessesesesenenas 167
GUY CULM Sous ceearn see sane cntles oeticndvasnnaet anki 129
CUYTANT DGPEL, <c2-scn<cceoeses . 39
GU WOTIMIS sick cores: steanessaaecscnenctlusaep spe sebixccesiernaan il

Dermestes. lardarius
Dicerea divaricata.... wed
NUIT, Scccose eck on concen ananpornval nestca cuctees opoeean seamen

Eburia quadrigeminata
Economic Entomology...... ..
Elaphidion parallelum.........
Villosum
Elaters

Epicaerus imbricatus...........

| Epicauta vittata...............

CUMOTO A se cess sc csnaciteseneneees
Euryomia inda.......
Melancholica... oe siecucbanee
Evening Silky TLeat-chatersicsc.ccasA. cena 102

Families of Coleoptera...
DUIS ness oinsy cae tercacdpe a
Hemiptera..-.-..008.5.c00
Hymenoptera....
Lepidoptera.........
Neuroptera
OmGHOPUSreie cs asap acters:
Fidia viticida
Flat-headed apple-tree DOreL...........cscceseceeseners

Gey WM OLAS P IVIG Sige... steaveccadererue: entosnesexpenccteateee

Hairy May DeCtle ss. ss.c:dcvassccsomessen lanneenr-onpentens
Hairy Saperda ean
Harlequin Cabbage-bug...
Haltica chalybea
(GWEN TIS eacensesacsnc ose <<
Punctulata. ...........
Vittata..
Harpalus caliginosu
Pennsylvanicus
Hazel-nut weevil.........
Hickory-bark borer.....
Hickory-tree borer....--
Hieckory-trunk borer

Hippodamia CONVErZENS............+eeeee 178
Len EF Ot Wit -(Peeerne peccerecca re Pees ret trenceec 173
MaG tl evtetics<c-0ccancy salons eas ebesnacenerpecateaveapments 173

13-punctata
Honey-locust borer.....
Horticultural Entomol By

Hylobius pales... 138
Hylurgus dentatus...... i
Terebrans... rence

Tey lad y-Dird........ssceseseeseeseeeeccersereeeseserenneneeees 7

Imbricated snout-beetle . we
Tridian Cetomiatit ii ccsccccascocsvocsscacessuasuienuspiuanave

:
II INDEX. i
PAGE. i
RS | ARUGULA. team cwaecsdven snaesennceoaeats) enasassencnier O10 | Peas Weevil ws. .cccsenctessshie RsbadydeaSebeduryserse teloeaneeten
Ithycerus NOVebOracensis............ ...00 secesere s:+e180 | Peach-tree bore............+. ;
Pear-tree borer............ aweanen :
Jumping eines Deetle se, cecthe tases 167 | Pelidnota punctata..............
Jnne bug... socccienncvadduedsusndeeweccSeaccnaversestadtecal OG! GE LV LLO DEE ELDER cs-cs sepeteee b
TOVIBCOM. (28 te nave vcnnepctere tnenon canst ataneeas ;
Kindred: May-Deetle,.s..-...cce0ssc..cc0stsve0seeers00-05 00k") Pulogieollia i...
Plant beetles............
Wpeai CHOLES |. os csessc6ssvcncccsvaceccassessachaateanentondeen 97 | Platycerus quereus...
Lebia grandis.... . 92} Plum curculio...
NEI a PUN ANTTCO DA. <n scconccasatsesrhavenncnta<tensenee spend | GOULD: 2.05 then ene
Letter to the Governor of Illinois... .............. 3 | Pime-tree borer...
Light-loving vine chafer..................--cssss ....105 | Pissodes strobi...
MSY bey TAT PHD iiiensc-55.<c-vsccedsuvivscsscetpsrascsstneacnere 126'| Potato beetles. .....-.---.ccceccensee
Vittata... vecateauts s .125 | Potato-stalk weevil...
Locust-tree borer... .151 | Preporatory states.......
SoA PCHRCE NEOL Utes sansns ssch sesceseresslennecpantearareatees™ 42 | Prionus imbricornis...
Long-horned WoO0d-DOTFETS..........scceeccseeeseeeee 146\}' "PatiGolliswssscccccspctcsssccerctetueancnseeeee
HUA CANN IAS CANN Gh woe ap satan dab senugacsoesnacscceesecre . 95 | Ptinus fur :
PRE TIBS : capenccs cso waeeeeddscnscsens tonnes . 94| Brunneus
Ludius attennatus.. 119 Punctulated flea-beetle.
Macrobasis unicolor........ 126
Macrodactylus subspinosus.. »» 103'|' Quince \eurculi0, .c2.2.c.5 .Cesticccesse td eceeeeoneeseaeeee 141
Magdalis armicollis.............00....02s :
OBIE stanst casdctevdeecwoceoescaee 2: > Raspberny DOTTED. a... cesssacccevvennces encheeieneeatnes
Mamestra picta................ BUG sooo: covanepeencserunsesnsemersenceemseen
Maple tree borer Rocky Mountain locust......
Margined blister-beetle TROSO DUN vcccusssnccesboecpnaesesocutesbuens: toaareneatee nee
PREM OELLOr Oia nas sae duant ensna satel adaonanenaienceh aepseses Roun d-headed apple-tree borer
MeIANCHOLY COTONIAN: «5 <.5.cxsecuceescascscss coecessconecs
UC LATTA CECH TU GTIO:. scat cnveviccscelcseorsascesnancatm epeevese 118 | Saw-horned wo0d-bore’6.............22sseceeeeeseeeeeees 109
MICIANOTUS \COMMMTING:,ccsctcsescer. ancceceeseosccect sens 118 | Serie a S@riCes.t.scc2..s,7Fecacwvscey se-Feoudnerseenaceereer 102
RUTSSU IS bs > cae oot Ne cpa cnant especies sasapne «117 | VeSPertim Gers cctemnues-c 102
Monocrepidius lividus. .118 | Silky leaf chafer. 152
Mottled tortoise beetle.... .172 | Stag beetles......... thoes
RUPP NISUUONICA. <...:ccvisceecascesesscseesseceneee 59 |: Squash-vine: DOrer:). ::~<<.sex4 ul casescsacseaudens ooecaeeeene
MyOcoring.- LU-lIN Catan, s..cccssscdececocsetiscnncoeressene 160
Tenebrioides MauritaNica. .....:......sereseocsscseserne 93
New York weevil.. adéssescsdesonveperccentvossSeend OO | SD EIA iN OF aieie were e eg eetene
Nine-spotted lady-bird... be idnescastcdscaatracodausere orn ty 173 | Tortrix malivorana.............
Premex COMM PAs s2c..ca,2sescocucescantesece see teem
Orthostethus infuscatus [see Errata]............... 117
Oak-twig pruner Wine Ch erers,-c..50..aee saree dodoessehnoeenuugeeainasreneaaea 104
Orders of Insects
White 20 DS. «ic... <.sc5sc0<tespdenevascacassunnnsernaaeaeeeeemnnnn
PRICE ARAN DING. scovecstacssnscsvewactrdicadestevsaavonause 174 | Wire-worms ..... we 2
Mamestra.. ..... . 60:'| Wood-boring larvaies2. 5.1.8 sess. deen eee . 36
MER WO CONTI cracker, youn oviccws neuieceseacdsstcour swencehetrad 133
Parallel long-horn............... .. eteees peoeelaO! Syleutes robimiae:...c..c0cc..ssscessoeeeeecee eens 42
PARIMIACH US ClOU LACUS: cies wtasersetacssucestsurssteces 89
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BRRATA.

Page 9, for ‘“‘topcal’’ read “topical.”

Page 15, “sphyropicus’’ should begin with a capital.
Page 15, for ““Melaurerpes’’ read ‘‘Melanerpes.”

Page 25, for “attenuatns” read ‘‘attenuatus.”’

Page 25, for “‘hieroglyphics’’ read ‘-hieroglyphiecus."’
Page 35, for ‘“‘Chrysobothri” read “‘Chrysobothris.”’

Page 36, for ‘‘Clyturobinae”’ read ‘‘Clytus robiniae,”’
Page 36, for ‘‘quad rigeminata’”’ read ‘‘quadrigeminata.”’
Page 38, for ‘““Hybobius’”’ read ‘‘Hylobius.”’

Page 38, in same line, for ‘‘pine-lark mirrer”’ read ‘‘pine-bark miner.”’

Page 38, for ‘“‘ex spivosus’’ red ‘‘4d-spinosus.”’

Page 38, for ‘‘Neolytus’’ read ‘‘Neoclytus.’’

Page 43, for ‘‘Chryspbothris’’ read ‘‘Chrysobothris."’

Page 43, for “‘divaricaca”’ read ‘‘divaricata.”’

Page 43, for “‘bicandatus’’ read ‘‘bicaudatus.’’

Page 43, for ‘“Sinoxyon Casilaris’’ read ‘‘Synoxylon basilaris.’’
Page 43, for ‘‘Pandeleteins’’ read ‘‘Pandeleteius.”’

Page 43, for ‘‘Priouus’’ read ‘‘Prionus,’’

Page 43, for ‘‘Saperca”’ read ,‘Saperda.”’

Page 43, for ‘‘Hyletus’’ read ‘‘Xyleutes.”’

Page 44, for ‘‘curcubitae’’ read ‘‘cucurbitae.”’

Page 48, for ‘‘Oedipsda’’ read ‘‘Oedipoda.’’

Page 68, for ‘“‘three-lined potato bug’’ read ‘‘fonr-lined potato bug.’’
Page 71, for ‘‘Crabriouidae”’ read ‘‘Crabrionidae.”’

Page 72, for ‘‘Tartricidae”’ read ‘‘Tortricidae.”’

Page 73, for ‘‘Corisdae”’ read ‘‘Coreidae.”’

Page 74, next line to the bottom, for ‘‘nocturnal’’ read ‘‘natural.’’
Page 75 for “‘cicada’’ read ‘‘Cicada.”’

Page 77, for ‘‘mepidoptera’’ read ‘‘Lepidoptera.’’

Page 77, for ‘‘fomilies’’ read ‘‘families.’’

Page 77, for ‘‘Antinnae’’ read ‘‘Antennae.’’

Page 78, for ‘‘Enlytro’’ read ‘‘Elytron.”’

Page 78, for ‘‘Scuttlelum”’ read ‘‘Scutellum.’’

Page 79, for ‘‘oedipoda”’ read ‘“‘Oedipoda.”

Page 80, for ‘‘Htsteridae’”’ read ‘‘Histeridae ”’

Page 80, for ‘‘Apaodidae”’ read ‘‘Aphodiidae.”’

Page 80, for ‘‘Metolouthidae”’ read ‘‘Melolonthidae.’’
Page 80, for ‘‘Cetonudae”’ read ‘‘Cetoniidae.”’

Page 80, for ‘‘Lamppridae’’ read ‘‘Lampyridae.”’

Page 80, for ‘‘Melordae’’ read ‘‘Meloidae,”’

Page 81, for ‘‘Hesteridae’’ read ‘‘Histeridae.’”’

Page 82, for ‘‘Ahodiidae’’ read ,‘Aphodiidae.’’

Pege 82, for ‘“Melolanthidae”’ read ‘‘Melolonthidae.”’

Page 84, for ‘‘robiuiae’’ read ‘“‘robiniae.”’

Page 85, for ‘‘Ealteridae’”’ read ‘‘Elateridae.”’

Page 85, for ‘‘Authonomus’’ read ‘‘Anthonomus.”’

Pxuge 85, for ‘‘scolytus’’ read ‘‘Seolytus.”’

Page 85, for ‘‘curysomelidae’’ read ‘‘Chrysomelidae.”’
Page 85, for ‘“‘cassidae’’ read ‘‘Cassidae.”’

Page 86, fifth line, for ‘Fine joints” read ‘‘Five joints.”
Page 93, for “TROGASITIDAE” read ‘‘TROGOSITID AE.”’
The generic names from page 86 to page 114 should begin with a large
Page 107, for ‘‘GyNMETIS”’ read ‘‘GYMNETIS.”’

Page 117, for ‘‘ARTHOSTETHUS”’ read “ORTHOSTETHUS.””
Page 118, for i ate read ““MELANECTEs.”

Page 162, for ‘‘Calasoma’’ read ‘‘CALOSOMA."’

Pa6e 171, for “‘CAssEDINAB”’ read ‘‘CASSIDINAE."’

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