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SERIES A: AGRICULTURAL. es ad - THE REVIEW OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY. SERIES A: AGRICULTURAL. VOL. II. ISSUED BY THE IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY. * AUG ae ts 1 3 a | Yonal Muse LONDON : SOLD BY DULAU & CO., Ltd., 37, SOHO SQUARE, W. 1914. All Rights Reserved. oy) | Fe bE A Yah ch a ES Berar |: . “ DONT ow Grain mae das a3 ae ; x | a ra eda sth , ay, aa ¢ = j ; ] IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY. Honorary Committee of Management. RT. HON. LEWIS HARCOURT, M.P., Chairman. Lieutenant-Colonel A. W. Atcock, C.I.E., F.R.S., London School of Tropical Medicine. Mr. E. E. Austen, Entomological Department, British Museum (Natural History). Dr. A. G. Bacsuawe, Director, Tropical Diseases Bureau. Sir J. Rosz Braprorp, K.C.M.G., F.R.S., Secretary, Royal Society. Surgeon-General Sir Davip Bruce, C.B., F.R.S., A.M.S. Dr. 8. F. Harmer, F.R.S., Keeper of Zoology, British Museum (Natural History). Professor H. Maxwett Lerroy, Imperial College of Science and Technology. The Hon. Sir Joun McCatt, M.D., Agent General for Tasmania. Dr. R. Stewart MacDoveatt, Lecturer on Agricultural Entomology, Edinburgh University. Sir Jonn McFapysnay, Principal, Royal Veterinary College, Camden Town. Sir Patrick Manson, G.C.M.G., F.R.S., Late Medical Adviser to the Colonial Office. Sir Dantet Morris, K.C.M.G., Late Adviser to the Colonial Office in Tropical Agriculture. Professor R. Newsreap, F.R.S., Dutton Memorial Professor of Medical Entomology, Liverpool University. Professor G. H. F. Nutrauu, F.R.S., Quick Professor of Protozoology, Cambridge. Professor E. B. Poutron, F.R.S., Hope Professor of Zoology, Oxford. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Davip Pratn, ©.1.E., C.M.G., F.R.S., Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Mr. H. J. Reap, C.B., C.M.G., Colonial Office. The Honourable N. C. RotuscHiLp. Mr. Huax Scort, Curator in Zoology, Museum of Zoology, Cambridge. _ Dr. A. E. Surptey, F.R.S., Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge. Sir 2 ea StockMANn, Chief Veterinary Officer, Board of Agri- culture. Mr. F. V. Txropatp, Vice-Principal, South Eastern Agricultural College, Wye. Mr. J. A. C. Tittey, Foreign Ofice. Mr. C. Warzurton, Zoologist to the Royal Agricultural Society of England. The Chief Entomologist in each of the Self-Governing Dominions is an ex officio member of the Committee. General Secretary. Mr. A. C. C. Parkinson (Colonial Office). Director and Editor. Mr. Guy A. K. Marsiatt. Assistant Loditor. Assistant Director, Mr. W. Norra. Mr. S. A. NEAVE. Head Office——British Museum (Natural History), Cromwell Road, London, S.W. Publication Office—27, Elvaston Place, London, 8.W. Page 2 line 7 for pre AO. 2 eee Aa i 1 oe De all 26: 7 LS 30: 5, LS or Gee 4 ADA. ADO 44 ., 47 AG oe A: AO we ete ee, ek pA. 0 9 one Ad (CLS (Spee RS 0) O27 Ag 93... 48 OO iad: 10623, 35 LO... 40 TOO te 27, IDO see oe 135. 5.030 1500S eT 145 Sf LE 2 153 3. Al ih) ee 160-19 165 ,, 41 10 5. a2 [CAs ei Lie ao 1G ees 18213590 £92). em 1, 8)5 hanes (() 195) 38 195 44. ERRATA. “ Aphism alvae”’ ** Areocerus”’ * hyalipennis” Calirrhipis ”’ ** aperite ”’ “* Nephelades ”’ Bekdémfung” * Pysila ” “ eoburine ” ‘“‘ KYJITYPHEIXb ”” * austrica”’ “ Pystla,”’ “* Derostenus varipes”’ Botrytes” “Calcium arsenate ”’ “ Calcic arsenate ”’ “ hyalipennis ”’ ‘“ appoximate ”’ Pollyphylla”’ “ Coccomytibus ”” ** Parsa chloris, Grote Jepson (Ef. J.)” wolyedricum ”’ bP) * alter” “ KRANZLING ” “~Weintzg”’ ce Acha 99 a3 lime 99 “ Ponciana”’ “ Johnstone ”’ * testeceupes ”” ** Marcrosiphum ” “ Prospalta ”’ ““ moroccanus ”” ** Aphimalus ”’ “ Chloropus” * devastator ”’ “ Weinbau der, Rheinp- fale” ““ Ichnaspis”’ ce vine pe) eryptogramic ” “* cheery ” read Aphis malvae. Araecerus. hyalinipennis. Callurrhipis. apterite. Nephelodes. Bekémpfung. Psylla. viburni. KYJIBTY PHEIXD. austrvaca. Psylla. Derostenus variwpes. Botrytis. Calcium arsenite. Calcic arsenite. hyalimpenms. approximate. Polyphylla. (Coccomytilus). Parasa chloris, H.&. Jepson (F. P.). polyhedricum. cacao. ater. KRANZLIN (DR.). Weinztg. Achaea. line. ~ Poinciana. Johnson. testacevpes. Macrosvphum. Prospaltella. MArOCcanus. Aphimallus. Chlorops. devastatrix. Weinbau der Rhevnp- falz. Ischnaspis. vigne. cryptogamic. cherry. ; Page 198 line 26 for “ ” 2? ERRATA—cont. —— viwidus ” ‘* (Pachtylus’) ” Colasyidema atra”’ citricus ” “ Coccinellid ”’ “ Tchneunionids ” ‘* Ambliteles ”’ 74 Phryxe PP) ** cartocatactes ”’ “* Entodon ”’ “one about 2,900 square yards “* grass leaf-hopper ”’ “* nutoris ” é¢ Qu ale” Amphimalus ” “ Krassiltchik ” “ JIEHKH ”” “* Pentathron” éc Qu al ey ) ‘“* PosPIELOV (W.).”’ “ D. usambica”’ “ (Ceiba bombax) ” “ dicincita”’ “* cereatella ”’ * VousEeR (EH. J.) “ Souts (8. Ei “ runnulrfera ” “* Iridoproche”’ “ Cecidomyid ” “ Cryptochoetum ” Cryptochoetum ”’ ** Palaeoceoeus ”’ ““ COCKERELL (T. O. A.) “* Diachasina tyront a __ Subrocinctus ” ** Aelothrips’ 342 fics 8 &16 for “ Olen” mee 19 C,, 203 ”? 4 22 ae. 2! ,, oe 2), a, 27 ,, se oan ,, 41 223 Tae oo 40. fo, 43, 245 last line ,, 246 line 24 ,, 253, “ oa. 16 ,, oo. 32 ,, wae .. 40 ,, tae, 19 ,, aw >, aap, 19'',, a aan ie TS, aoe, 49 ,, foo ATC, et >, © ,, ae 39 , ae 8D .,, 307 +) 7 oe) ae ol, aor... ol .,, met. o4 ,, overs, 10 ,, Mot | 8 ,, ae, LD .,, aa. 22 ,, 338 4 ae 342 line 32 for fee TD aa 3, 10". aan. oO... aan 1S 5; ie. O° >, ets LO 5, 420 +e) 3 oe) mates, 49). 437 6 * Ambliteles ”’ “Coote (A. J.) (74 Ae 99 ** Zitomastix ”’ Euergestis ”’ Aphandrus ” “record formula ”’ ** Paris, nos. 18-19, 23rd Feb. ;” ** oleae” ** augustus ”’ read viridis. 32 2) (Pachytylus). Colasyidema atrum. citricola. Discolomid. Ichneumonids. Amblyteles . Phryze. caryocatactes. Entedon. one of about 2,900 square yards. grape leaf-hopper. nutans. Quayle. Amphimallus. Krassilstchik. OJIEHKH. Pentarthron. Quayle. PospPIELov (V.). Dirphya usambica. (Bombax ceiba). dicincta. cerealella. VostER (EH. J.). Sout (F. W.). pinnulifera. Iridoprocne. Agromyzid. Cryptochaetum. Cryptochaetum. Palaeococcus. CocKERELL (T. D. A.) Diachasina tryon. rubrocinctus. Aeolothrips. Olethreutes. Amblyteles. Cooke (A. J.). A Latomastix. Hvergestis. Aphanurus. record the formula. Paris, i, nos. 18-19, 20th Feb., ' oleellus. angustus. 462 464 488 49] 49] 496 496 501 501 515 516 519 522 527 539 539 502 542 505 559 563 570 572 577 596 607 624 625 626 628 629 630 630 631 652 677 684 691 691 697 716 720 14 32 36 3 23 4] 8 29 36 20 25 21 30 32 33 3 30 13 39 16 44 25 4] Vili ERRATA—cont. Page 439 line 17 for “ eglantereina ”* 3 “ gemminata” ‘* BALABANOVA (A.). 93 “ Hydaphis ” 74 rubra bp) “ OroponzHnyeetso ” “@MunoKcepé mb- CHOCTAM®b ”” “ Gracillaria”? “ BLIDalUIMBaeTca ” Chloridiea ”’ ** Nietsche ” ** Griddle ” “ uraniagrin ” 3 pyrast. i 399 Chauvigne 4 XE Jp) Griddle ” * Acrolima” Trbesia ”’ “ Circular No. 16” *“ tomontosus ”? “* Pseudoccocus ”’ _“ Xylotecus” * Subcoccinnella ” ?@ Enarmonia batra- chopa ”’ ‘“ Tnseets ”’ * thespecioides ”’ “ Laxin (G. L.)” “ Schreiner (Y. Hy * Pseudoccus ” * Polyophineta ”? 7 (Phlegethontiusquin) quemaculatus ”? * chalcytes ”’ “ cordifoila ” HARDENBERG (B. Bo ‘THunpny ” * Cheimatobi ”’ “* Leonana”’ * complena ”? * SURFACE (R. A.)” “ longules, Boh.” “ arsenate ” read eglanterina. geminata. Batapanoy (M.). Hyadaphis. rubus. Oroponuuuectso., @unnoxcepé mb- CTHOCTAMb, Tischeria. BLIPalluBaeTca Chloridea. Nitsche. Criddle. uraniagriin. pyrastri. Chauvigné. XLI. Criddle. Acrolepia. Irbisia. Circular No. 36. tomentosus. Pseudococcus. Xyloterus. Subcoccinella. Argyroploce leuco- treta. Insectes. thes pesioides. Lakin (G. J.). Schreiner (J. F.). Pseudococcus. Polysphincta. (Phlegethontius) quinquemaculatus. chalcites. cordifolia. Harpenpere (C. B.) lHusbiy Cheimatobia. Levuana. complana. SURFACE (H. A.). longulus, Gyl. acetate. ar + <2 * ae SF ; ao ‘ego a , ‘ Gi ey Mok wg Ts. ey a 4 Yoo IL. Ser. A. Part 1.—pp. 1-66. JANUARY, 1914. Bai ae. ‘ THE REVIEW fe oF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY. ' SERIES A: AGRICULTURAL. ISSUED BY THE IMPERIAL | BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY. a | LONDON: Bees: SOLD BY . . DULAU & CO., Ltd., 37, SOHO SQUARE, Ww. Price Od. net, ae: say | ~All Rights Reserved. IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY. Honorary Committee of Management. | THE EARL OF CROMER, G.C.B., 0.M., G.C.M.G., Chairman. Lieutenant-Colonel A. W. Atcock, C.I.E., F.R.S., London School of © Tropical Medicine. Mr. E. EK. Austen, Entomological Department, British Museum (Natural History). Dr. A. G. BaasnaweE, Director, Tropical Diseases Bureau. Sir J. Rose BRADFORD, K.C.M. G., ¥.R.S., Secretary, Royal Society. Surgeon-General Sir Davip Bruce, C.B. a R.S., A.M.S. Dr. 8. F. Harmer, F.RS., ‘Keeper of Zoology, British Museum (Natural History). Professor H. Maxwetit LErroy, pinion College of Science and _ Technology. The Hon. Sir Jonn McCatt, M.D., - Agent-General for Tastoanile Dr. R. STEWART MacDoveatt, Lecturer on pencetural Entomology, Edinburgh University. Sir Jonn McFapyean, Principal, Royal Veterinary College, Camden Town, | Sir Parrick Manson, G.C.M. G., F.R.S., Late Medical Adviser to the Colonial Office. Sir Dante, Morris, K.C.M.G., Late Adviser to the Colonial Office in Tropical Agriculture. Professor R. Newsteap, F.R.S., Dutton Memorial Professor of Medical Entomology, ‘Liverpool University. Professor G. F. H. Nutratt, F.R.S., Coie Professor of Protozoology, Cambridge. Professor E. B. Pouuton, F.R:S., Hope Professor of Zoology, Oxford. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Davip PRAIN, C.LE., C.M.G., F.R.8., Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Mr. H. J. Reap, C.M.G., Colonial Office. The Honourable N. C. Roruscamp. Mr. Hues Scort, Curator in Zoology, Museum of toolar, Cambridge. Dr. A. E. SuIPLEY, F.R.S., Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge. | Sir Sb 2 STOCKMAN, Chief Veterinary Officer, Board of Agri- ' culture Mr. F. V. Tueopatp, Vice-Principal, South Eastern Agricultural College, Wye. Mr. J. A. C. TittEy, Foreign Office. Mr. C. Warsurton, Zoologist to the Royal Agricultural Society of England. | The Chief Entomologist in each of the Bah es Dominions _ is an ex officio member of the Committee. General Secretary. Mr. A. C. C. Parxrnson (Colonial Office). Director and Editor. Mr. Guy A. K. MarsHatt. Fssistant Editor. Mr. W. Norts. He ead Office.—British Museum (Natural History), Cromwell Road, ‘London, §. Publication Office. —2, pve eon Place, Eokidon, S. W. or —— IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY. REVIEW OF Pe PLIiED ENTOMOLOGY. SERIES A. Vot. IT.] [1914. ZACHER (F.). Die Afrikanischen Baumwollschadlinge. [African cotton pests.|—Arbeit k. biol. Anst. Land- und Forstwirischaft, Berlin, ix, no. 1, 1913, pp. 121-230, 83 figs. Insect pests of the cotton plant in Africa are described at consider- able length. The significance of the pests, methods of combat by means Oi poisons, traps or natural enemies, other plant hosts of the insects, and the immunity of certain species of plants are discussed. Insects which are useful to cotton in preying upon harmful insects are mentioned. The life-history of many of the pests is given. The following is a list of injurious insects, arranged according to the part of the plant they attack. Damaging the roots :—Orrnoprrera: Brachytrypes membranaceus, F. ; Leprpoprera : larvae of Euxoa segetum, Schiff., E. spinifera, Hb., and Agrotis ypsilon, Rott; CoLtroprera: larvae of Tetralobus sp., Heterodes sp., Aeolus inscriptus, E., Diplognatha gagates, ., Camenta westermanni, Har., Schizonycha serrata, Aulm., Enaria melanictera, Klg., Popillia hilaris, Kr., Synistovalgus bifasciatus, Kr. Damaging the stem:—Co.Leorrera: Alcides brevirostris, Boh., Sphenoptera gossypii, Kerr., S. neglecta, Klg., Apate monachus, F., Hypothenemus eruditus, Westw., Apion armipes, Wagn., A. xanthosty- lum, Wagn. Damaging the leaves :—Ruyncnota: Pseudococcus virgatus, Ckll., Chionaspis aspidistrae, Newst., C. aspidistrae var. gossypii, Newst., and Lecanuim nigrum, Nietn.; OrTHoprera: Schistocerca peregrina, Ol., Zonocerus elegans, F., Phymateus viridipes, Stal., Phaneroptera nana, FKieb.; LeprpopteRA: larvae of Sylepta derogata, F., Hymenia (Zinkenia) fascialis, Cram., Basiothia charis, Wlk., Hippotion celerio, L., Celerio lineata, F., var. livornica, Esp., Prodenia litura, F., Euxoa segetum, Schiff., EH. spinifera, Hb., Agrotis pronuba, L., A. ypsilon, Rott., Plusia confusa, P. circumfleca, Cosmophila erosa, Hb., Porthesia vurguncula, Walk., Nudaurelia sp., Tephrina contexta, Saalm., Synga- mia abruptalis, Wik. ; CoLeopteRA : Diplognatha gagates, F., Camenta (Cl.) Wt. P.11/12.26.3.13. 2,000 1/14. B.& F. G. 11/18. A 2 westermanni, Har., Schizonycha serrata, Aulm., Enaria melanictera, Klg., Popillia hilaris, Kr., Synistovalgus hemiplerus, Kr., Epipe- dosoma laticolle, Kolbe, Systates pollinosus, Gerst., Aphthona sp., Nisotra unforma, Jac., Syagrus puncticollis, Lef., Ootheca mutabilis, Sahlb., O. bennigseni, Wse., Tituboea ruficollis, Ol.,; RuyNcnora : Helopeltis bergrothi, Reut., Calidea bohemani, Stal, C. apicalis, Schout., Hotea subfasciata, Westw., H. acuta, Stal, Aphism alvae, Koch, A. gossyput, Glov., A. sorght, Theo. ; Acari: Tetranychus sp., Damaging the flower :—LrEpiporTEeRA: larvae of Earias insulana, Boisd., Chloridea obsoleta, F.; CotroptEra: Mylabris bizonata, Gerst., Coryna hermanmiae, F., C. dorsalis, Gerst. ' Damaging the boll and seeds :—CoLroptTEra: Diplognatha gagates, F., Apion xanthostylum, Wagn., Cathorama sp., Tribolium ferrugineum, - F., T. confusum, Duv., Laemophloeus pusillus, F., Palorus melinus, Hbst., P. ratzeburgu, Wissm., Silvanus surinamensis, F., Tenebroides mauretanicus, L., Bruchus chinensis, L., Areocerus fasciculatus, de G. ; LEPIDOPTERA: larvae of Chloridea obsoleta, F., Duparopsis castanea, Hmp., Harias insulana, Boisd., E. fabia, Cr., E. chromataria, Wlk., E. plaga, Boisd., Gelechia gossymella, Saund., Pyroderces simplex, Wlsm., Stagmatophora gossypiella, Wism., Agrotis ypsilon, Rtt., Huxoa spinifera, Hb., Ephestea cautella, Walk.; Rauyncnota: Dysdercus cardinalis, Gerst., D. fasciatus, Sign., D. mgrofasciatus, Dist., D. superstitiosus, F., Oxycarenus hyalipennis, Costa, O. gossypinus, Dist., O. dudgeoni, Dist., O. exitiosus, Dist., D. albidipennis, Stal, Lepto- glossus membranaceus, F., Anoplocnemis curvipes, F.; DieLopopa : Odontopyge sp. The insects useful to the plant are chiefly Hymenoptera, which destroy many injurious species. Alesza striata (COCCI-NELLIDAE) is is mentioned as destroying scale-insects. ZACHER (F.). Die Sechadlinge der Kokospalmen auf den Siidseeinseln. [Pests of the coconut-palm in the South Sea Islands. |—Arbeut. k. biol. Anst. Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Berlin, 1x, no. 1., 1913, pp. 73-119, 38 text figs. A complete list of the insect pests of the coconut-palm in the South Sea Islands. In most cases a description is given of the insect, together with details as to its distribution, life-history, and mode of attack. The following species are mentioned. :— CoLEOPTERA: Oryctes rhinoceros, L., O. preussi, Kolbe, Tricho- gomphus semilinki, Rits., Xylotrupes nimrod, Voet, X. corquint, Deyr., Scapanes australis, Boisd., S. grossepunctatus, Sternbg., Orycto- deres latitarsis, Burm., Pimelopus tenuistriatus, Aulm., P. preusst, Aulm., P. robustus, Aulm., P. pygmaeus, Aulm., Horonotus quadr- tuber, Zacher, Mycterophallus xanthopus, Boisd., Glyciphana versi- color, F., Eubussea dilatata, Zacher, Eurytrachelus pilosipes, Waterh., E. intermedius, Gestro, Metopodontus cinctus, Montr., Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, Ol., Rhabdocnemis obscurus, Boisd., Calandra taatensis, Guér., Atactus deplanatus, Boh., Oxycephala (Xiphispa *) chalyberpenms, Kolbe in litt., Brontispa froggatti, Sharp, Promecotheca antiqua, Weise, P. opacicollis, Gestro, P. reichet, Baly., Xixuthrus costatus, Montr., Olethrius tyrannus, Thoms., Stenodontes imsularis, Fairm., Mono- hammus sp., Sessinia linda, F., A. collaris, Sharp., A. palmarum, 3 Kolbe in litt., Calirrhipis femorata, Waterh; LeEprmpopTERA: Levuana iridescens, Harpagoneura complexa, Butl., Tinea sp. ORTHOPTERA: Graeffea cocophaga, Newp., Anaulacomera insularis, Stal, Theutras pallidus, Walk.; Isoprera: JEutermes_ sp.; Ruyncunora: Basiliocephalus thaumatonotus, Kirk., Aleurodicus sp., A. destructor, Quaint., Aspidiotus destructor, Sign., Furcaspis oceanica, Lind. ; Acari: Tetranychopsis sp., Bdella (?) sp. The author points out that a great many of the species are probably insignificant as regards the damage done, but he considers that it is desirable to have on record a complete list of the actual and potential pests of this important tree. FERNALD (H. T.). Insecticides, Fungicides, and directions for their use.— Massachusetts State Board of Agriculture, Boston, Cire. no. 2, 1913, 24 pp. The author gives a comprehensive list of insecticides and fungicides, _ with formulae and general instructions for their use. A large number of common insect pests are mentioned, and brief advice as to treatment given. FERNALD (H. T.). Three common scale-insects.—Massachusetts State Board of Agriculture, Boston, Cire. no. 6, 1913, 10 pp., 6 figs. The author describes the San José, the Oyster-shell and the Scurfy Scales and gives full directions for the preparation and application of : _ the insecticides most efficacious against these pests. _ WoopwortsH (C. W.). Codling moth control in the Sacramento Valley.— Univy. of California, Coll. of Agric., Berkeley, Circ. no. 101, June 1913, 4 pp., 3 figs. The fruits affected are the apple and the pear. By the use of arsenical poisons the loss can be reduced to about one per cent. or less. As the worm first bores deeply into the fruit it is suggested that the j subsequent surface-feeding is the fatal operation, but so far our know- ledge is insufficient to explain the reasons for the efficiency of the poison. All investigators agree that it must be applied before the § larva enters the fruit. In the case of pears and autumn apples, unless this first spraying has been thorough, a second brood will also require __ attention in the latter part of July or early in August. Its appearance _Inay be noted if bands of sacking are placed round a few trees and examined about the Ist and 15th of July and August. One thorough Spraying for summer apples and one or two for autumn apples and pears will completely control the codling moth in the Sacramento Valley. For a single medium-sized tree, } pint of lead arsenate in 5 gallons of water is sufficient. For a quarter of an acre of orchard 3-6 lbs. lead arsenate in 100 gallons of water is enough. Instead of this weight of lead arsenate, one-third of zinc arsenite, or one-quarter of Paris green, may be used. In the latter case lime (three times as much) (Cl1.) A 2 4 should be added. This holds the arsenical to the tree and also marks ‘the tree so that the thoroughness of the application may be visible to the eye. Woopworta (C. W.). The Woolly Aphis—University of California, Coll. of Agric., Berkeley, Circ. no. 102, June 1913, 4 pp., 1 fig. Believed to be of American origin, and called “‘ American blight ” by English entomologists, this insect has now been shown to be another form of the elm aphis (Hriosoma ulmi). “Northern Spy ” roots have been used with great success against it in Australia, where it is a serious pest. They are equally efficient. in California, and should be used wherever the woolly aphis requires combating. If nursery stock is wanted quite free from the insect, the production of winged forms in the neighbourhood of the nursery should be prevented. Elm trees should be carefully inspected in ‘spring, and as soon as the swollen leaves become conspicuous these should be removed. Apple trees in the vicinity should be kept free ‘from twig infestation. Should the nursery become infested, it is best. to dig up and destroy everything that has been attacked, as the wingless forms may spread along the nursery rows. Though this is not the case in California, there are places where treatment is justifiable. ‘The simplest and generally cheapest method is the direct application of kerosene or gasolene with a swab or brush. Too much oil will pro- -duce dead spots on the bark. The work is as quick as spraying, and is immediately and completely effectual. The trees should be gone over about once a week in spring until the danger of rapid increase is past. Ifthe insects cannot be economically treated with oil, spraying will be necessary, and a nicotin spray is the best. Nicotin sulphate 40%, 1 lb., and cresol soap 1 gallon, in 200 gallons of water, form an effective solution ; the soap simply increases the penetration. Spray- ing must be thoroughly done. There appears to be no danger of winged forms issuing from the roots, but sometimes it may be desirable to prevent the lice from migrating. The easiest method is to dig out a few shovelsful of earth round the roots and fill in with sand. ‘PaRKER (J. R.). The imported cabbage worm and the cabbage aphis. —Montana Agric. Coll. Expt. Stn., Bozeman, Montana, Cire. no. 28, Aug. 1913, pp. 9-24, 12 figs. The cabbage heads are rendered unsightly and unfit for a first-class. market by the dark green excrement of the “imported cabbage worm ” (Pieris rapae, L.), and if they are badly riddled, growth is stopped. It is well to plough under or otherwise destroy all cabbage stumps and leaves remaining from the crop, as they afford ideal breeding places. A few heavily-poisoned stumps may be left to act. as traps. A spray, containing either Paris green, arsenate of lead or arsenite of zinc, may be used immediately there is any noticeable injury. The author says that there is no danger in eating cabbage 5 sprayed with arsenicals. Another cabbage worm found in Montana, the larva of the diamond-back moth (Plutella maculipennis), is amenable _ to the same measures. The cabbage aphis (Aphis brassicae, L.), also uses crop remnants for depositing its eggs, and since weeds, such as wild mustard and shep- herd’s purse, serve as breeding places for the early generations of the lice, they should not be tolerated near cabbage fields. A most effective spray is: Black leaf tobacco extract, 8 oz. ; soap, 4o0z.; water, 4 gals. If “ Black Leaf 40” is used, only 3-4 oz. need be taken. The soap makes the spray spread evenly on the waxy surface of the cabbage and makes it penetrate the mealy covering of the lice. Failing tobacco extract, a good alternative is a strong solution of soap; soap or washing powder 1 lb., and water 4 gals. ; and for cauliflowers its non-staining property is a real advantage. Cierc(G.O.). Rapport sur une mission dans le gouvernment d’Oufa pour déterminer les insectes déprédateurs et indiquer les moyens de les combatire. [Report of a commission in the Govt. of Oufa, for the determination of insect pests and the means of combating them. |—Bull. de la Soc. Ouralienne, Amat. Scr. Nat., Ekaterinburg, Xxxu, no. 2, 1913, pp. 140-145. In July 1912, the author made an expedition into the district of Oufa with the purpose of examining crops which were being destroyed by insects. In the neighbourhood of Bélébéi, the crops of wheat and oats had at first been very promising, but, as the summer advanced they were attacked by insects, and it was evident that the harvest would be reduced to anything between 50°% and 0% of the usual. As the weather at the time of examination was unfavourable for finding insects, the author did not succeed in catching any adults, but he obtained a large number of pupae of Mayetiola (Cecidomyia) des- éructor, Say, and of Oscinis frit, L. Plants which were unattacked _ by these insects were often infested with Thrips. In the district of Birsk the condition of the crops was even worse, especially in the case of wheat. APHIDIDAE, Cecidomyia, Oscinis and Thrips were found in abundance. Oats had suffered principally from APHIDIDAE and Oscinis. Fields of millet and buckwheat were unattacked. The author advocates ploughing the fields to a depth of 16-20 ems. (6:4”-8”), and burning the stubble with the roots before Cecidomyia and Oscinis emerge from their cocoons. Czmsar (L.). Our most troublesome orchard insects and diseases.— Forty-fourth Annual Report of the Fruit Growers’ Association of Ontario for 1912, Ontario Dept. Agric., Toronto, 1913, pp. 13-31, 19 figs. The title sufficiently explains the scope of this paper (see this Review, Ser. A, i, p. 404), in which the author also gives a list of remedies and notes on the methods of their employment. Fett (HK. P.). The use of oils on dormant trees.—T'wenty-eighth Report of the State Entomologist, 1912, N.Y. State Mus., Albany, New York, Bull. no. 165, 15th July 1913, pp. 83-92. The author says that the spraying of dormant trees with oils, especially mineral oils, is one of the more recent developments of insect control, and it has been said by enthusiasts that the application is harmless. He gives examples showing that there are a number of so- called miscible oil preparations on the market the careless use of which is attended with danger, and he summarises his conclusions as follows :— The use of oils or oil preparations on dormant trees has been fol- lowed in several cases by severe injury. Trees, as living organisms, respond to climatic and cultural conditions, and as a consequence their power of resisting penetration and injury by oils undoubtedly varies with the season, and probably with age, from year to year. Since certain weather conditions promote injury by oils, it appears impossible to be sure that deleterious effects may not follow the spraying of dormant trees with an oil preparation. Autumn treatment with oil appears to be more hazardous than spring appli- cations. Other things being equal, the author believes that there is less danger of penetration by oil, and consequent injury, if the appli- cations are made in the spring, shortly before active growth begins, as there is then likely to be greater resistance to the entrance of oil, or more rapid renewal of necessary vital tissues that may be destroyed by it. SHEVIREV (I.). Oviposition in Ichneumon Flies.—J/. R. Micr. Soc., London, pt. 4, Aug. 1913, p. 385. Iv. Shevirev has experimented with Piompla instigator and other species, to which he gave pupae of different sizes, e.g., of Sphinx and of Pieris. If only large pupae are supplied the progeny will be almost wholly female; by supplying only small pupae, the female offspring can be practically eliminated. It appears as if the females, like queen-bees, adjusted the kind of egg laid to the nutritive condi- tions available. In another paper (C.R. Soc. Biol. Paris, lxxiv, 1913, pp. 698-9) the author refers to parthenogenetic females. While the fecundated females lay eggs which develop into both sexes, those laid by virgin females produce males only. In the case of the fecun- dated females, the eggs which produce males are unfertilised eggs. Herrick (G. W.). Control of two Elm-tree pests.—Cornell University, Agric. Exp. Sta., Coll. Agric., Dept. Entom., Ithaca, N.Y., Bull. 333, May 1913, pp. 491-512, 19 figs. The author reports in detail successful operations against the elm leaf-beetle (Galerucella luteola, Miill.), and the elm leaf-miner (Kalvo- sysphinga ulmi, Sund.) Arsenicals were employed against the former pest and ‘“ Blackleaf 40” tobacco extract against the latter. The author recommends that in planting shade trees adjacent streets should be planted with different species, as thus an outbreak of any single pest can be easily checked and controlled. | | , — Gray (G. P.). Analyses of insecticides for users,—University of California, College of Agriculture, Berkeley, Circ. no. 105, Aug. 1913, 7 pp. The California Insecticide Law provides that “the . . . Direc- tory of the Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of California shall, upon the receipt of a sample of the insecticide, accom- panied by a nominal fee of one dollar, furnish to the user of the said com- mercial insecticide, such examination or analysis of the sample as will substantially establish the conformity or non-conformity of the said insecticide to the guarantee under which it is sold.” It is pointed out that a complete analysis will not usually be made, but only such an examination or analysis as will fulfil its object, and also that analysis will not be made for dealers. The great care which is necessary when drawing a sample is specially insisted on. Woopworts (C. W.). The Amended Insecticide Law.—University of California, College of Agriculture, Berkeley, Circ. no. 104, Aug. 1913, 10 pp. This pamphlet gives the full text of the law of 1911 enacted in - California, as it now stands, with footnotes commenting on each of the changes. GeHRMANN (K.). Krankheiten und Schadlinge der Kulturpflanzen auf Samoa, [Diseases and pests of cultivated plants in Samoa. | —Arbeit. k. biol. Anst. Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Berlin, 1x, no. 1, 1913, pp. 1-120. The rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) is the chief insect pest of coconut palms in Samoa. The palm-borer (Rhynchophorus ferru- gimeus) which is found throughout the Indian Archipelago, and also in New Guinea, the leaf-eating coco moth (Levuana iridescens) and the dreaded coco scale-insect (Aspidiotus destructor) are all, at present, absent from Samoa. After discussing at some length the possibilities of combating the rhinoceros beetle, the author gives the instructions issued by the Government in the Straits Settlements and in Singapore in connection with this pest, which may be briefly summarised as follows :—All infested trees are to be burnt or buried, or sunk in water, so that the eggs, larvae, pupae and beetles will be destroyed. Anyone keeping on his land dead coconut palms, etc., which would harbour the beetle, is to be fined: and Government officials shall be allowed to enter gardens and plantations for the purpose of seeing that the instructions are carried out. There seems to be no direct method of combating the pest. The danger for Samoa lies in the fact that the beetle has only recently been introduced ; it is likely, therefore, to multiply considerably, and Samoa offers every condition favourable to its spread. ln ee een een eee eee eee CaRPENTER (G. H.). Injurious Insects and other Animals observed in Ireland during the year 1912.—/icon. Proc. R. Dublin Soc., i, no. 6, Aug. 1913, pp. 79-104, 9 figs, 2 pls. Grubs of the Garden Chafer (Phyllopertha horticola), were received in September from Co. Galway, where it is said that they do the greatest damage to ‘“ second grass.” Rooks were observed to pull up the dead plants in order to get at the grubs. Specimens of the Frit Fly (Osconis frit) were received from Co. Dublin. Turnips, with the sub-globular galls due to the maggots of the Root-gall Weevil (Ceuthor- rhynchus pleurostigma, Marsh.), were received in March from Co. Galway, and in April, from the neighbourhood of Belfast. Cabbage and cauliflower plants were received from Co. Clare, the stems of which were bored by a somewhat large Curculionid grub, not yet identified. _ The injury ultimately kills the plants. The only measure that can be recommended is the removal and burning of the infested plants. Specimens of the Potato-leaf Beetle (Psylliodes affinis) werereceived from Co. Tipperary and Co. Kerry. In Ulster, the Flax Flea-Beetle was very active in 1912; spraying with lead arsenate is suggested. Specimens of small white Annelid worms, of the family Hnchytraeidae, were received from Co. Monaghan, with the statement that they were injuring celery, carrots, parsnips,and onions. They have been identified as Enchytraeus albidus, Henle, which is very common in farmyard manure. Celery roots were sent in February from Co. Down, tunnelled by the maggots of the Carrot Fly (Psila rosae), proving that they can live through a mild winter. One sample of apple shoots sent from Porta- down, was found on 29th May to be infested with Aphis pom, A. sorbi, Psylla mali, and caterpillars of the Winter Moth (Cheimatobira brumata) and of a species of Tortrix. Later on, more Aphis. sorbi were sent from Counties Antrim, Waterford, and Dublin, and Aphis opmi from Waterford and Tipperary. In July an apple shoot especially badly infested by the Woolly Aphis was received from Co. Limerick. The Apple Sucker (Psylla malz) did a vast amount of damage to apple blossoms in May 1912. Specimens of shrivelled buds containing the insects were received from Counties Dublin, Kerry, Armagh, and Tyrone. In some cases the hairy black fly, Bibio marci, was noticed in numbers around the injured blossoms and was wrongfully accused of causing the damage. Specimens of the ruddy Shield Bug, Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale, were sent, in February, 1912, from Co. Cork, where they were sucking the unopened buds of apple trees. From Rathfarnham — specimens of the Clay Vine Weevil (Otiorrhynchus picipes) were re- ceived, with information that the young black-currant bushes were badly damaged ; entire shoots were sometimes devoured. Phyllobius oblongus and P. viridiaereus are recorded as damaging apple foliage. Caterpillars of the Winter Moth (Chewmatobia brumata) were very abundant in many parts of the country, feeding on apple, plum, currant, and gooseberry. Apple shoots disfigured by the webs of the Small Ermine Moth (Hyponomeuta malinellus) were received in April and May from Co. Dublin. Apples bored by the caterpillars of the Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) came from Co. Clare in June. Cater- pillars of the Common Bell Moth (Tortrix ribeana) were found in May eating apple shoots in Co. Dublin. For their destruction early spray- 9 ing in April with lead arsenate wash is recommended. Apples con- taining larvae of the Apple Sawfly (Hoplocampa testudinea) were _ received from Counties Tyrone, Tipperary and Kildare. The Pear Gall _ Mite, Zriophyes pyri, and the Black Currant Gall Mite, Z. ribis, were ' reported, the former from Co. Dublin, the latter from Co. Kerry. - The acclimatisation in Ireland of the Australian Fern Weevil (Sya- | grius intrudens) is recorded ; ten years ago it was extremely destruc- ' tive to ferns in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, and now it 1s _ breeding in the open. ' Picarp (F.). Sur un Braconide nouveau parasite de Sinozylon sexdentatum, Ol., dans les sarments de vigne, [Onanew Braconid parasite of Sinozylon sexdentatum, O)., on vine shoots. ]—Bull. Soc. Entom., France, Paris, no. 16, 1913, pp. 399-402, 1 fig. Sinoxylon sexdentatum is the most common Bostrychid in the South ' of France ; it is found in vine branches, which it reduces to a state of ' dust. Many enemies of this insect are known; some predaceous, _ such as Histerids, Malachiids, and Clerids; others parasitic, such as | the Acarid, Pediculoides ventricosus, and the Proctotrypid, Cephalono- _ myia formiciformis. The author is the first to record a Braconid parasite of this beetle. The species which he describes is new, viz., Monolexis lavagnei, and was taken in large numbers from S. sexden- _ éatum infesting vines. The insect is not exclusively parasitic upon __ 8S. sexdentatum, but has been found in connection with Scobicia pustu- data, F., and Xylonites praeustus, Germ. It may also attack Scolytids. _ ScHALVINSKY. HenapHbid wenkonpagb 8b JledepAHcKoMS nbCHH- yecTBb. ([Lymantria dispar in the Lebediansk Forest (Govt. of Tambov)]. « Jibcuan #u3Hb uw Xo3sAiictBo» [<< Forest Life and Economy”’|. Published by the Tambov Administration of Agri- culture and State Domains, Tambov, 1913, no. 5, pp. 9-14. The Matiushin estate of the Lebediansk forest has frequently been visited by Lymantria dispar, especially those plots where oak plan- tations are more or less mixed with birch and aspen, and where the _ “tchornosiom ” soil is covered by a rich growth of grass. The age of _ these attacked plots is 40-80 years, the thickness of the trunks from 06 to 08 metre. The insect practically avoids young plantations 7 up to 20 years old, as well as thin plantations or glades. They also seem to avoid light, usually starting to eat the foliage on the windward side and in places where the trees are dense. The larvae emerge from the eggs in the middle of April, and pupation usually begins from the 13th to 26th June. Should there be rain and a change to cold weather, the larvae perish without pupating. The pupae are found on the branches and trunks, and a month later (13th-26th July) the perfect insects appear. The females oviposit in the lower cracks of the bark, laying their eggs in groups of 20-50, and the moths disappear in the middle of August. The author describes the result of destroying the unhatched eggs by scraping, burning, or scattering them. These remedies invariably 10 gave only partial results, as some of the eggs developed even in unfavourable positions. According to Shevirev, L. dispar is seldom dangerous in natural forests, and he recommends fighting the insect only in natural woods growing under unfavourable conditions, or near plantations, nurseries or orchards; in any case, he recommends smearing the egg-masses with naphtha. The author gives an example of the cost of this remedy, which, including peasant women at 20 copeks (5d.) a day, and naphtha, of which about 32 cwt. were used, amounted to about 5d. per acre. On the plots that were most thoroughly treated there were no unhatched eggs. The results showed that in these spots there were practically no caterpillars in the spring of 1912, and no damage to the leaves. In the neighbouring plots, which were not smeared, the insects appeared in more or less large quantities, and would have done great damage if the weather con- ditions had not arrested their development. The author is quite satisfied as to the efficiency of this remedy. BaGRINOVSKy (—.). OT4eTb 0 OoppOb cb BpepHbimM HacbHKOMbIMY Bb Hynukosckomb Jitcuuyects6 TamOoscKnoi ry0. 3a 1912 rob. [Report on the fighting of injurious insects in the Kulikov Forest of the Govt. of Tambov in 1912].— « Jltenaa MU3Hb WM XosAiicTBo» [<< Forest Life and Economy” |.—Tambov, 1913, no. 5, pp. 31-35. As the result of excavations conducted by Prof. I. K. Tarnant in autumn of 1911, he was satisfied that the year 1912 would be a bad year for Melolontha on the Kulikov estate, while on the Demshin estate this was to be expected only on one plot. These expectations proved correct, and the “‘ May beetles ” on the former estate appeared in enormous numbers. The author further describes the collection of the beetles organised on about 13,500 acres of the Kulikov estate, and on 12,000 acres of the Demshin estate, which resulted in the accumulation of 15 tons of insects, for which a sum of £200 was paid ; 964 people, mostly women and children, were engaged in the work, which lasted from the 2nd June to 6th July. The beginning of field and market-garden work, as well as the decrease in the number of flying beetles, led to a gradual diminution in the quantities collected. after the 29th June; the amounts brought in varied from 34 cwt. to 14 cwt. per diem before the 16th June, after which date the daily collections were never more than 268 lb., being only 9 lb. on the 23rd of that month. For each pound of live beetles from 3d. to 1$d. were paid. The procedure adopted was to shake the trees, when the beetles fell down and were collected in bags, etc. The bags containing the insects were put into boiling water, after which they were emptied into deep pits. In order to check the stench produced by the dead bodies of the beetles, the heaps were sprayed over with lime. It is estimated that at least seven and-a-half millions of females were destroyed. Some experiments were also started to test the effect of various insecticides, Paris green, barium chloride, and white arsenic, on young seedlings. Underneath some small oak bushes sprayed with Paris green or barium chloride no dead beetles were found, and the insects evidently avoided these plants. | , 11 ZuirTKov (Gr.). Padotp 1912 r. MawescKaro onbitHaro nbconnyectBa no w3y4eHitO MawcKaro MyKa [Studies on Melolontha in the Fastchevsk experimental forest, Govt. of Tambov, in 1912.}~— « JibcHan u3Hb MW Xo3AiicTBO » [‘ Forest Life and Economy’’ |. —Tambov, 1913, no. 6, pp. 6-17, no. 7, pp. 4-17, and no. 8, pp. 18-25. The Fastchevsk forest was formed principally in order to study the best means of fighting Melolontha, which is the most serious pest of pine forests. In 1912, owing to the cold weather prevailing, the flying of the beetles was noticed only on the 13th May at an air temperature of 1°4°C. (34:5°F.) and a soil temperature of 02°C. (32°3°F.); on the 14th May the temperature fell again, and not until the 19th May, when the weather became definitely warmer, did the flight in great masses begin. The author describes first the results of the collection of beetles en masse; about 564 poods (181 cwt.) of insects were collected and destroyed. For each pound of insects collected five kopeks (14d.) were paid, and on some days as many as 24 ewt. were brought in. Only specimens of Melolontha hippocastane were obtained, in two varieties, one with dark legs and black scutellum (this being in the majority), and another with pale legs and reddish scutellum. No specimens of Melolontha vulgaris were found. With regard to oviposition, observations have shown that the females avoid bare places, though bare fallow is not an absolute protection against oviposition, and that the females dig holes for their eggs in places not exposed to the rays of the sun, the eggs not being able to develop in dry soil. In such exposed places there are no plants, the appearance or smell of which would prevent the female ovipositing near them ; rye alone seemed not to be favoured by them. Experiments conducted to show whether the insects can fly for long distances did not prove conclusive, for no marked beetles were re- captured. The insects are not attracted by light. The author refers to the statement that white alder grown in nurseries will protect them against the insects, but on one plot on which alders were sown in 1910-11, the insects appeared just as usual. Observations are still required as to how the larvae behave towards the roots of alders, and how it is that this tree withstands their attacks. Experiments as to the effect of various insecticides in protecting the roots of trees from the larvae were made, and Paris green, arsenic, barium chloride, naphthalin and tobacco dust proved harmless to the young seedings, except Paris green, when used in a proportion of more than 34 drams in 2°7 gallons of water, and naphthalin in a proportion of 4 lb. or more in the same quantity of water. The plots in which the surface of the roots had been poisoned with these insecticides were afterwards artificially infected with larvae of Melolontha, in one case also those of Serica, but no damage was noticed in the autumn of 1912 ; these experiments are to be repeated in 1913. As to the supposed preventive influence of straw and dry oak leaves, the experiments did not prove conclusive, although they produced no evidence against these remedies. The author is not satisfied that birches ought to be excluded from pine plantations; although they no doubt serve as food for the insects, the same applies also to every young tree with tender leaves :—oak, ash, lime, hazel, and sorb. The author con- 12 tradicts the statement that the collection of the beetles cannot be considered sufficient and effective; he believes that the remedy, if applied, not as an experiment, but on a large scale and everywhere in the Government will yield good results, and that only after several years of such collection will it be possible to judge conclusively as to its efficiency. He further describes the result of digging the earth, in order to ascertain the numbers of eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults wintering in the soil. A table is given showing the result of the examination of 1,625 holes, each one metre square. In July and August the soil was dug out to the depth of 1 metre; in September and October, to a depth of 14-14 metres. It appears from the table that the collection of beetles was by no means useless, the number of eggs and young larvae in those places where collection was practised being generally less than one-third of that in places where no collections where made; though in both cases an equal number of larvae of older stages (not bred in 1912, but before) were found. Keeping the soil fmable decreases the number of larvae; crop-growing on spots where the trees are cut away also gives positive results; in sandy soil the larvae are fewest, next coming pine woods, and then spaces that have been cleared of trees; the heaviest infestation is in soil around deciduous trees ; old trees are preferred by the females to younger ones, if both grow together on the same spot; floods from the river Dvuretchka had no influence on the larvae. The author recommends the digging of holes yearly, and on a large scale, to obtain more reliable informa- tion as to the present and future occurrence of the beetles. In conclusion, the author gives an account of various experiments, from which it appears that the larvae require moisture for their development, perishing in dry soil; that they perish in close, compact soil; that in the presence of food in the soil the larvae move about three inches in 24 hours, while in the absence of food the speed is about four inches; some experiments in a special glass apparatus showed that the insects could move as much as two feet in 24 hours. Further observations of this kind are in progress. K.T. Bpeputenu v Ooppba cb HMMM Bb A bCHMYeCTBAaXb TaMmooBcKon ryO. Bb 1912 r. [Pests and the fighting of them in the forests of the Government of Tambov in 1912].— «JlécHaA +KM3Hb U Xo3nvictBo » [‘ Forest Life and Economy” |—Tambov, 1913, no.7, pp. 25-28. The fighting of injurious insects was conducted in 1912 in sixteen forests of the Government, being chiefly directed against the “ May beetles ” (Melolontha), which are the most widespread and dangerous pests of forests. In nine forests the whole fight was concentrated on the collection and destruction of these beetles, the total quantity of insects destroyed being 25 tons. The insects were mostly killed in boiling water, but in one forest special ovens were dug in the earth. In another forest the beetles were boiled in water to which lime was added, and afterwards used as manure for nurseries for 1913. It was noticed that in one locality where the plantations were eaten totally bare in 1907, the previous flying year, this year they were only partly 13 damaged. The excavations conducted later proved that in mixed forests, plantations of young oak, birch and aspen, suffered only one- third of the injury done in pure oak plantations, when no collections were made in either. As preventive measures against oviposition by the insects, light harrowing of the soil and spraying of tobacco dust in the nurseries were tried. The latter gave no useful result. Apart from Melolontha, operations were also directed against Huproc- tis chrysorrhoea, Lymantria dispar and Lophyrus pini, the larvae of which were collected and destroyed. The larvae of Notodonta trepida __were swept by brooms from the trees and collected afterwards into _ pits. The larvae of Retinia were destroyed by cutting away the branches from the point at which they had started to penetrate, and burning them. Notice of Public Hearing on the Alligator Pear Weevil (Coleop).— Entom. News, Philadelphia, xvix, no. 9, Nov. 1913, p. 416. In an editorial note attention is drawn to a meeting that was to be held at the Agricultural Department, Washington, during November, to discuss the question of establishing a quarantine against avocado seeds and fruits imported into the continental United States. It appears that a dangerous enemy to avocados (alligator pears) known as the avocado weevil (Heilipus laurz) exists in Hawau, Porto Rico, Mexico, and other foreign countries. The weevil lives in the seed of the avocado, and no method is known by which it may be killed without destroying the seed itself. In view of the increase of avocado culture in the United States, especially in California, it is hoped that the nvestigations now being made will lead to the discovery of a method of treatment. SCHNEIDER-ORELII (O.). Der gegenwartige Stand der Reblaus- forschung. [The present state of research upon Phylloxera.|— Schweiz. Zeits. fiir Obst-und Weinbau, Frauenfeld, xxii, no. 21, 10th Nov. 1913, pp. 321-325. This paper gives shortly the work of Borner, which forms a con- tinuation of the researches made recently in Italy and France upon the life-history of the vine louse (Phylloxera vastatriz.) 'The work upon the subject by Marchal and Feytaud is given fully in the “ Revue de Viticulture ” (vol. xi, p. 5). The present paper shows that the winged louse and the gall-louse, in the majority of cases, play no part in the spread of the pest on European vines; and that the wingless root- louse can multiply indefinitely, giving rise to numerous generations without the intervention of a sexual generation, as occurs in American vines. Marcuat (P.). Contribution a 1’étude de la biologie des Chermes. [Contribution to the study of the biology of Chermes.}—Ann. Sci. Nat. Zool., Paris, xviii, nos. 3-6, 1913, pp. 153-385, 6 pl., 74 figs. The author has made numerous observations and experiments to ascertain the life-history of four species of Chermes, viz. C. nusslini, 14 C. piceae, C. pim, and C. strobi, the host tree of the first two being the fir, and of the last two, the pine. As regards C. nusslini, the author finds that it undergoes an alternation of hosts between Picea orrentalis (not P. excelsa, as had been held before) and Abies ; while C. piceae, which until recently was taken to be the same as C. nusslini, passes its whole life-cycle on Abies. Chermes pint was thought to reproduce indefinitely by parthenogenesis on the pine; but sexual reproduction taking place on Picea excelsa, has been discovered by Cholodkovsky. Galls of a species of Chermes, now thought to be C. pini, have been found on Picea orientalis in the south of Europe; recently, in the neighbourhood of Paris where P. orzentalis is abundant, the author was able to trace the sexual generation of C. pinz on this tree. C. strobi, which has been imported from America, multiplies in Europe ex- clusively by parthenogenesis. Bentiey (G. M.). Bee-keeping in Tennessee.—Tennessee State Board Entom., Knoxville, Bull. no. 9, June 1913, 64 pp., 56 figs., 2 sketch maps. This booklet deals very completely with bee-keeping in Tennessee. Bee-moth is stated to be the chief of the troubles of the bee-keeper, which, in diminishing degree of importance, comprise paralysis, foul- brood, ants, cockroaches, toads, mice, and birds. The presence of bee-moth implies carelessness, for it never attacks a strong vigorous colony. GILLETTE (C. P.) and WeLpon (G. P.). The fruit tree leaf-roller in Colorado, Fourth Annual Report of the State Entomologist of Colorado, Fort Collins, Colorado, Cire. no. 7, Sept. 1913, pp. 30-67, 9 figs. The female moth (Archips argyrospila, Walk.) deposits her eggs in compact oval clusters of from twenty-five to more than one hundred. The first larvae emerge with the bursting of the apple leaf buds, and when the blossom buds begin to show their pink colour the eggs are nearly all hatched. The apple is chiefly attacked. Plum, cherry, and pear trees suffer less, and the peach is practically immune; but when food is scarce the larvae will attack any green foliage. The history of the leaf-roller in the Cayion City Section is then given by A. S. Taylor. First noticed in the spring of 1908, its ravages rapidly increased, and according to data available in August 1912, the crop on the south side of the river was damaged fully 85 per cent. The north side promised nearly a full crop, but was found to be badly damaged at picking time. The eggs were not destroyed by very strong solutions of lime and sulphur used in 1910 and 1911; 7 lb. of lead arsenate in 100 gallons of water could not save the fruit, though it saved some of the foliage; miscible oil seems to have solved this serious problem at last. The main report then continues with a comprehensive list of in- secticides, tables of the insectary experiments carried out with them, and detailed notes to supplement the tables. These experiments resulted in the following conclusions :— 15 (1) Leaf-roller eggs possess a remarkable resistance to injury by _ practically all well-known contact sprays; (2) lime and sulphur preparations, either home-prepared or of commercial manufacture, _ give little, if any, benefit, even when used in excessive strengths ; _ (8) kerosene emulsion containing 16% per cent. oil, or more, usually _ kills the eggs, but under certain conditions, which cannot be _ explained, higher strengths may fail to do so; on the other hand, a _ weaker strength will often do the work well; (4) a thick coating with _ a lime whitewash will keep the larvae from emerging from the eggs ; it must be sufficient to cover the surface of the egg-mass entirely ; _ (5) “ Black Leaf 40,” “‘ Nicofume,” and other tobacco preparations, _ used alone or with soap, were of no value ; (6) strong arsenical sprays _ used to coat the egg-masses may be of some benefit, but probably not enough to justify their use; (7) whale-oil soap, lye, corrosive ‘sublimate, Cooper’s ‘“‘V. Tree Spray,” ‘‘ Aphine,” and hydrocyanic acid gas gave little or no protection. Abundant notes of orchard experiments follow. From them the authors conclude that :— (1) The leaf-roller eggs may be killed by a very thorough spraying with a soluble oil while the trees are dormant; this spray should probably be applied prior to, but as near hatching time of the eggs as possible; (2) very careful and heavy spraying with arsenicals _ early in the season will result in almost complete control; the first _ application should be made shortly after the eggs begin to hatch, | which will be when the first green foliage is showing on the trees, and the second as soon as the blossom buds have separated in the clusters ; a blossom spray is, in all probability, not necessary, and is dangerous, in that it poisons the bees; (3) “Black Leaf 40” care- fully and thoroughly applied about the same dates as the first two sprayings with arsenicals, will give good results; (4) a mixed spray _ of ‘“ Black Leaf 40” and lead arsenate is little more satisfactory than | either one of the insecticides used alone; furthermore, the cost of _ such spray would be too great for practical purposes; (5) 3 lb. lead _ arsenate to 50 gals. of water is sufficient for successful control, and _ there is no advantage to be derived from mixing Paris green with it, _ as many have done; (6) not less than ten gallons of spray, on an _ average, should be applied to trees from twelve to twenty years of _ age; very large trees may require even more; (7) failure to control _ this pest with arsenicals has been due in most cases either to a failure _ to spray early enough and at the correct time, or to put enough of _ the liquid on the trees. : f u Moore (H. W. B.). The Planters’ Inseet Friends —Timehri, Jl. R. Agric. Comm, Soc. Brit. Guiana, iii, no. 1, Sept. 1913, pp. 35-42. An account of the insect pests which attack sugar-cane in British Guiana and the various parasites which prey upon them. A paper on the same subject by Mr. G. E. Bodkin has recently been noticed in this Review (vol. i, ser. A, p. 139). 16 BartTHou (—.). Les Ennemis du Framboisier. [Enemies of the . raspberry cane.|—Momniteur d’ Horticulture, Paris, xxxvii, no. 21, 10th Nov. 1913, pp. 248-249. . | The stem of the raspberry is frequently attacked by the daddy-long- legs (Tipula oleracea). The larva, known as the leather jacket, devours the stem not only of raspberry canes, but of strawberries, vegetables and flowers. Carbon bisulphide may be used as a remedy, also gas- lime. The best method is said to be to collect the larvae in the neigh- bourhood of the plant. This should be done in the early morning when they come out to feed. Spraying with water and gas-oil emulsion = effectual, but it has the disadvantage of destroying the leaves of the plant. Another insect attacking the raspberry is Lasioptera obfuscata, Macq., which produces galls on the stems, full of reddish-coloured larvae. The remedy is to cut off and burn the excrescences. The leaves are often attacked by the caterpillars of Polia oleracea, L. The canes should be sprayed at their base with a concentrated solution of sulpho-carbonate of potassium ; a trial spray must be made first to ensure that the concentration is not such as to harm the plant. Moreau (L.) & Vinet (E.). Au sujet de l’emploi des piéges 4 vin pour eapturer les papillons dela Cochylis. [On the use of wine-traps for capturing Clysia ambiguella.|—C. R. Acad. Sci., Paris, clvu, no. 23, 8th Dec. 1913, 1158-1160. The traps consist of simple glasses, 8 cms. (3:2 inches) deep and 6 cms. (2°4 inches) in diameter at the orifice. They are provided with a plate of glass 9 x 12 cms., which forms a roof, and which is held above by a piece of iron wire, which serves also to suspend the traps between the vine plants. The liquid consists of wine lees, to which is added vinegar, one part to ten of wine. The glasses are three-quarters filled. — The capture of the moths of Clysia by means of these traps is influenced — by atmospheric conditions, and does not give, according to the writers, satisfactory results, in spite of the numbers, which show that 2,289 moths were caught in thirty-one traps. It does not appear to constitute a sufficient means of control, and can only be regarded as complementary to other methods. | aes THompson (W.R.). Sur la spécificité des Parasites Entomophages. [On the specialised habits of parasites of insects. |—C. R. hebd. Soc. Biol., Paris, xxv, no. 35, 12th Dec. 1913, pp. 520-521. The operation of parasites in keeping harmful insects under control has been a considerable asset to agriculturists during the past few years. There is a tendency, however, to attribute to particular parasites too great a power of becoming acclimatised to new surround- ings into which they have been artificially introduced, and the author points out that parasites are often sharply restricted to particular hosts. Also, since many undergo an alternation of hosts, the intro- duction of such parasites into new countries becomes still more complicated. iy The author cites a case of two closely allied weevils, which are parasitised by different insects; these are Hypera postica, Gyl., and H. punctata, ¥. The former is infested by several parasites, among which nine are frequent and easily distinguished ; three attack the eggs and six (including a fungus) the larvae and pupae. Hypera punctata, on the contrary, is only parasitised by three species, even when it is in the same fields as H. postica; these three are a Mymarid egg-parasite, a fungus, and an Ichneumon parasite of the larvae. The first two are also parasitic upon H. postica; the last is a specific parasite of H. punctata. GIRAULT (A. A.). Notes on a Plague of Locusts in North Queensland, and its Relation to Sugar Cane.—Socretas Entomologica, Stuttgart, xxvii, nos. 11 & 12, 3lst May and 14th June, 1913, pp. 45-46, 49-50. Between January and June, 1912, the author made a series of observations upon the locust (Locusta danica) in North Queensland. In January adult specimens were observed in swarms, apparently attracted by the lights in houses. Later in the month, at Innisfail, from the bank of the Johnstone river, quite a large progressive flight was witnessed ; in an adjacent sugar plantation most of the plants withered on the next day, the leaves having been stripped of their mid- ribs. In February, the young were noticed, and at the same time many dead adults, mostly females, were found. These were found while ovipositing, with their abdomens half-buried in the earth. These adults were no doubt the last of the migrating swarms observed in January. In March the adults of the first generation were very abundant, and also all larval stages, but in April all had reached maturity. At this time injury to cane was noticeable and rather extensive. In April, eggs of some locust, probably those of L. danica, were found, and an egg-parasite (Scelzo ovi, Girault M.S.) was reared from them. Later, this parasite, together with another species (Scelio australis, Froggatt), known to be parasitic upon the eggs of L. australis, _ was found in company with the locusts. In May and June, L. danica were rare, although larvae of australis were seen in colonies. Marcuat (P.). Contribution 4 l’etude de la biologie du Puceron noir de la Betterave. [Contribution to the study of the biology of the Black Aphis of Beetroot.|—C. R. hebd. dz l Acad. des Sciences, Paris, clvu, no. 22, Ist Dec. 1913, pp. 1092-1094. The life-history and occurrence of Aphis ewonymi have been given by Mordwilko. He was of the opinion that this insect, which causes extensive damage to beetroot plantations, had two plant hosts during its life-cycle—the beetroot and Viburnum opulus, L. or Euonymus europaeus, L., and that by destroying the latter trees in the neighbour- hood of beet plantations, the pest could be got rid of. The present author has made further observations at Orleans and at St. Germain- des-Prés, and has found that there are yet other alternative hosts besides the two mentioned above, viz., Fusain de Japon, Rumez, Chenopodium and other wild plants, so that destroying the Viburnum or Euonymus is by no means a sufticient remedy. Moreover, the (C1.) B 18 author found that in certain cases the insect may complete its life- cycle on one or other of its hosts alone, so that although the pest may be reduced by destroying one of the host plants, it will not necessarily be exterminated altogether. Jarvis (H.). Notes on the Bean Fly (Agromyza phaseoli).—Queens- land Agric. Jl., Brisbane, Feb. 1913, pp. 124-125, & Mar. 1913, pp. 192-195, 2 pl. French beans in Southern Queensland are subject to the attack of the bean fly, which is widely distributed in the Colony and does con- siderable damage. The female oviposits in the leaf, and the larva, when hatched, tunnels its way towards the leaf-stalk ; pupation takes place in the swollen bases of the leaf-stalks. Two small hymenopterous insects have been bred from the bean fly in sufficient numbers to suggest that they are doing considerable control work. Regarding artificial remedies, it is recommended to grow a small crop of Canadian Wonder beans to meet the first brood of flies ; if found to be harbouring grubs they should be pulled up and burned without delay. All old bean plants that have ceased to be profitable should be rooted up and burned. The stems may be protected by earthing them up. It has been said that good results have been derived from growing beans in a shallow trench and applying to the soil, so as not to touch the plants, whitewash made from acetylene refuse [see this Review, ser. A, i, p. 191,] or lime slaked with water containing carbolic acid. Jarvis (E.). Pumpkin Beetles and how to destroy them.—Queensland Agree. Jl., Brisbane, May 1913, pp. 326-333, 2 pl. Cucurbitaceous plants, which would otherwise do exceedingly well in Southern Queensland, are subject to the attacks of insect enemies, which devour the foliage and flowers and frequently kill both seed- Imgs and young plants. The worst of these insects is the Banded Pumpkin Beetle, erroneously called the “‘ Pumpkin Ladybird ” (Aulacophora oliviert, Guérin). Although especially partial to the leaves and flowers of cucurbits, they are found on other trees and shrubs, and doubtless have a wide range of food-plants. In 1908 they were recorded as having seriously damaged ripe cherries in New South Wales. They have also been known to destroy apples by biting through the stalks of the young fruit and causing them to fall. At times they are present in thousands on a single pumpkin plant, a fact not to be attributed, according to the author, to gregarious habits, but to the conspicuous colouring of the beetle itself, which would attract others of its kind. The pest has been recorded in Queensland from various localities in the districts of East Moreton, Wide Bay, Burnett, Darling Downs, Port Curtis, Cook, Warrego, Leichardt, and Burke. In 1907 it was especially harmful in Southern Queensland during November ; but the most serious outbreak occurred two years later, when the insect did enormous damage over a wide area of the State. The eggs, which are yellow and large enough to be plainly visible, are laid on the surface of damp soil or immediately under it among 19 grass, roots, etc. The egg stage occupies from nine to ten days, the larval stage forty-one days (from 14th March to 24th April). The pupal stage is passed in the soil in an egg-shaped chamber excavated by the larvae at depths varying from one to three inches. Shortly before pupation the larvae are found to be tunnelling the bases of the leaf-stalks and boring the main stem. Various remedial measures are suggested. The protection of the young plant is very important, as at this stage it is liable, in a few hours, to be greatly injured or even killed by a single beetle. They may be protected by covering them with mosquito-netting until they have begun to grow vigorously. Such covers can be supported by pieces of fencing-wire, bent to the shape of half circles, or more simply by a few short sticks stuck into the ground. The edge of the netting should rest on the earth, and be covered with a layer of soil to prevent dis- placement by wind, and to stop the beetles from crawling under it. A piece of crumpled paper hung over a young plant and supported by astick driven into the ground at an angle, is asserted to keep the insects off by its movements in the wind. Plants should be system- atically examined in the spring, and any beetles found should be killed by hand-picking. Among chemical substances which may be applied to deter the insects are mentioned the following :—(a) refuse of acetylene gas manufacture ; (b) ammoniacal gas water ; (c) plaster or lime impregnated with turpentine, kerosene or phenyl; (d) tobacco dust ; and (e) Vaporite Strawson, “‘ aperite,” or other such substance containing naphthalene. These in each case should be sprinkled on the ground around the growing plant, but away from the stem, and only in such amount as to bestow a marked odour upon it. The following poisons have been advocated from time to time, and have proved more or less serviceable :—(a) spraying the leaves with lead arsenate (1 lb.) or Paris green and lime (4 lb. of the arsenical to $ lb. lime) in every 50 gals. water ; (b) dusting the foliage with Paris green (1 lb.) mixed with flour or road dust (20 lb.) or with flowers of sulphur (one part) and lime (three parts). | When the insects occur in large numbers, it is recommended to shake them from the foliage into shallow pans containing a little water and kerosene. This method is best practised in the early morning or during a spell of cold weather, when the beetles are inactive and less inclined to fly. In some cases the covering of young seedlings could be avoided by raising the plants in cold frames, so as to get them transplanted and well established before the first beetles appear. Old plants should be pulled up to avoid any possibility of the roots affording food for the _ larvae. Other species recorded as damaging cucurbitaceous plants are the Plain Pumpkin Beetle (Aulacophora wilsoni, Baly), the Northern Banded Pumpkin Beetle (A. cartereti, Guérin), and the 28-spotted Ladybird Beetle (Epilachna 28-punctata, Fabr.) The remedial measures given for A. olivizri apply equally to these insects. (C1.) B2 20 Insects injurious to Papaw Apples in Queensland.— Agric. JI., Brisbane, July 1913, pp. 33-35. The following observations were made during July 1913, on insect injury to papaws :— | In West Cleveland a number of orchards were visited, all showing signs of injury ; fine trees had their top leaves drooping and dead, or the main stems defoliated, and carrying a few small discoloured fruits clinging to the blackened crowns. An examination revealed the injury to be due to the presence of the larvae of Dichocrocis punctiferalis, which had bored into the main stem, leaf-stalks and fruit. The same species was further discovered to be injuring oranges and bananas. The egg is deposited on the leaf-stalk near its point of junction with the main stem, or more rarely on the small fruits. The larva, when hatched, penetrates the hollow stalk and after feeding for a time on its succulent base, bores into the crown, in which it remains until ready to pupate. Remedial measures must be of a preventive nature, as it is too late to do much good after the larvae have entered the leaves or main stem. The unprofitable food-plants of the species should be destroyed in the vicinity of the orchard, but on the other hand they should be encouraged in other parts. Spraying papaws with arsenate of lead (1 lb. to 50 gals. water) would poison newly-hatched larvae attempting to enter the plant; this should be done just before the eggs are laid, and directed principally against the early broods. All infested fruit such as peaches, etc., should be gathered and destroyed. The food-plants of the insect already recorded are the peach, papaw, orange, loquat, guava, custard apple, granadilla, banana, millet, maize, cassia, senna bean, Canavallia indica, dahlia, and castor-oil plant. Annual Report of the Bee-Keepers’ Association of the Province of Ontario, 1912.—Ontaria Dept. Agric., Toronto, 1913, pp. 72. The various papers read at the annual meeting on November 13th, 14th and 15th, 1912, include such subjects as Federal Legislation regarding bee diseases ; inspection of apiaries in Ontario; manage- ment of outlying apiaries ; moving outfit on motor truck ; preparing bees for outdoor wintering ; cellar wintering and spring management ; bees, poultry, and fruit; bee-breeding. - FuLnaway (D. T.). A New Species of Mealy-bug Parasite (Aphycus terryt)—Proc. Hawanan Entom. Soc. 1911-1912, Honolulu, i, no. 5, July 1913, p. 281. The new parasite described was bred from Pseudococcus saccharifolia at Olowalu and Hana, Maui, by F. W. Terry, June 1909, and at Hilo, Hawaii, August 1912, by O. H. Swezey. Witson (H. F.). Combination sprays and recent insecticide investiga- tions.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N3S., 1913s. 711, Details and results of spraying experiments are given in this paper. ao 2 ear SY Le 21 The author states that the factors which led to the study of the sub- ject are :—(1) It is the most important problem before the farmers and fruit-growers of to-day; (2) for some one or more reasons not clear to us, our knowledge of sprays and their effects is very unsatis- factory ; (3) while our commercial insecticides are more or less stable under certain ideal conditions, the results obtained from their use are too variable for us to make definite regulations ; (4) the economy of spraying and the numerous new sprays on the market at the present time demand an entirely new investigation of the subject. The results are summarised as follows :—Arsenite of zinc acts more quickly, and remains in suspension better than arsenate of lead, acid or non-acid ; acid arsenate of lead was superior in these respects to the non-acid; the non-acid is slow, but finally kills; lime-sulphur did not prove of much value as a stomach poison, and when mixed with arsenicals seems to retard their action; lime-sulphur probably acts as a repellent to biting insects as Bordeaux mixture does against the potato flea-beetle ; very young caterpillars placed on twigs which had been sprayed with lime-sulphur did not feed, and eventually died ; half-grown larvae did feed to some extent, and when transferred to unsprayed twigs developed normally. Winstow (R. M.). The Economie side of Pest-Control.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 17-21. For the Province, expenditure on the control of pests for 1913 is estimated at 21,000 dollars for material, 20,000 for application, and 12,500 for 25 per cent. of equipment costs. The paper also embodies a report on the cost of manufacturing hme-sulphur at Okanagan. With material at wholesale prices and freight at car-load rates, the commercial article delivered at Okanagan Points costs about £2 7s. per 40 gallon barrel of 625 Ibs. Provided the same conditions obtain, the cost of manufacturing at Okanagan is about £1 0s. 10d. When buying material in less than car-load lots it would rise to £1 8s. 10d. approximately. There would be, in addition, the cost of a hydrometer (4s. 2d.); and the first cost of the boiling plant, which on a one-barrel scale need not be over £2 9s. 5d., and might be kept as low as 12s. 6d. or 16s. 8d. The product should test about 20° Beaumé, that is, not quite so strong as the commercial one which tests 324° Beaumé. Under proper conditions several dollars per barrel might be saved; but on the small scale, especially with inexperience, the saving would be more apparent than real. TREHERNE (R.C.). Methods of taking insect records in the field. —Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 21-24. Without claiming originality, the author puts forward several suggestions he has found useful. To determine percentage of infes- tation : select 5 typical locations in the field to be examined, and from them a typical row, tree, or plant to be inspected. Then count 50 plants, buds, fruit, or leaves, as desired, and examine carefully for 22 injury. Then the total number of injurious marks, divided by the total number of objects examined, multiplied by 100, gives the per- centage of infestation. If it is wished to follow the observations by others during the same season, to observe the progress of infestation, stakes or markers should be used, so that the same area or ground is covered each time. Tables are given for estimating egg, larval, or adult abundance to an acre, and for making estimates on nursery stock rows, gooseberries, currants, raspberries, or such like bush-fruits, and for use with trees set on the square-planting plan, corn-hills and tomato plants. These methods may prove of practical use to the working field inspector. RuuMAN (M. H.). The importance of Economic Entomology as a Subject of Education.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 27-28. It is stated that 50 per cent. of the insect pests of the United States are introduced species. The very rigid inspection of nursery stock, plants, and fruit enforced in Canada, makes it almost impossible for insect pests to be introduced through these channels, but the trades- man may leave the packing material of imported products lying about, and farmers and fruit-growers do likewise. Most of the latter have not the elementary knowledge and power of observation to make the best use of the advice now obtainable concerning the control of pests. Day (G. O.). President’s Address.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 29-30. Stress is laid on the importance of Systematic Entomology in this address, the speaker pleading for the amalgamation of the economic and systematic sides of the subject. PatMeER (L. L.). Some problems in Aphis-control.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 31-34. There is not a single operation in the proper care of orchards that may not influence the fruit produced, and no fruit-grower can afford to allow any insect pest which, directly or indirectly, injures the quality of the product, to go uncontrolled. If the cost of production is too high, the grower must reduce it, not by neglect of any single operation, but by making one operation aid another, by more thorough work in fewer operations. In dealing with orchards infested with woolly and green apple-aphis and scale insects, it is possible to work so thoroughly as to kill the one which is doing the most damage, or the two which are of greatest economic importance, and also very effectu- ally check the third. For instance, a spray of 1 part concentrated lime-sulphur in 9 parts water, with the addition of 1 part Black Leaf 40 to every 800 parts of solution, applied with a power sprayer and a pressure of at least 175 lb., previous to the opening of the leaf-buds im early spring, should kill all over-winter woolly aphis above ground, as well as oyster-shell scale, when thoroughly brought in contact with Sa eae — 7 23 the insects; but it will not destroy all the green apple-aphis eggs. For green apple-aphis 1 part lime-sulphur concentrate in 30 parts water, with | part Black Leaf 40 to every 900 parts solution, should be applied after the leaf-buds have just opened, and will effectually kill the greater part. An application of a 15 per cent. solution of kerosene emulsion, or Black Leaf 40,1 part to 900, about the 10th to 15th of September, in Vernon District, will free the tree-tops of woolly ' apple-aphis previous to the appearance of the winged viviparous females, which probably migrate to other host plants, beyond control. Furthermore, the author recommends ploughing a furrow on each side of the trees in the spring or early autumn. A man follows up, and with a large digger hoe, or shovel, exposes as much of crown and roots as possible within a 4-foot radius of the tree ; then sprays thor- oughly with kerosene emulsion, forcing the spray well into the soil about the crown and base of the tree. As the ploughing is necessary every other year, advantage is thus taken of it to make the spraying more effective. Again, by arranging to prune the trees from 1 to 4 years old in late winter or early spring, the shining black eggs of the green apple-aphis are then easily seen, and can be clipped off in the regular pruning operation. By pruning in late winter the exposure of immature wood to the cold winter weather is also avoided. Lyne (W. H.). Two injurious insects of economic importance attacking peach, apricot, and plum trees.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 34-36. ~The method of control adopted for the peach twig-borer (Anarsia lineatella) consists of winter spraying with lime-sulphur 1-10, just as the buds are opening, and arsenate of lead 3 lb. to 50 galls. of water when the new growth starts. To protect the fruit from the second brood of larvae, use the arsenate spray just about the time the moths begin to fly—by the middle of July in British Columbia. In dealing with the peach root-borer (Sanninoidea exitiosa, opalescens) it is best to cut the larvae out about the end of June before they pupate. Be- fore replacing the earth round the tree the following wash should be _ applied :—1 part lime-sulphur to 6 parts water, with enough fresh- slaked lime to thicken 5 gallons of the mixture to a good thick paint ; into this stir thoroughly 4 lb. whale-oil soap and + pint carbolic acid or 1 lb. coal tar. When the paint has had time to dry on the trees, replace the earth, banking up 4 or 5 inches. This wash will also pro- tect from fungous rot, etc., besides making it very difficult for the young larvae to penetrate. To save cutting, fumigation of the roots with carbon bisulphide has been resorted to, but is not popular, as there is danger of killing the tree. The peach root-borer is a most injurious pest, on account of its deadly work being done unseen in the most vital part. Its presence is often not suspected until the tree dies, after the crown of the roots has been successfully girdled. Mipp.eron (M. S.). Cutworms and their control.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 36-37, It would seem that epidemics of insect pests are followed by periods of comparative rest, due almost wholly to parasitic control. The 24 latter is considered to have checked the epidemic of cutworms pre- valent in 1912 in the Kootenay, for but little damage resulted in 1913. The pests injured nearly every cultivated plant, including green grain. Vegetable gardens and orchards suffered most, while they were very destructive in cabbage, turnips, and tomato fields, and damaged strawberry beds extensively. The most common varieties are the red-backed (Paragrotis ochrogaster), the greasy (Agrotis ypsilon), the variegated (Peridroma saucia, Lycophotia margaritosa), and the zebra caterpillars (Mamestra canadensis, Polia nevadae). The Canadian hst might be extended to include the following :—yellow-headed (Hadena arctica, Aplectoides speciosa), spotted (Noctua c-nigrum), brown (Nephelades minians), W-marked (Noctua clandestina, unicolor), common striped (Huxoatessellata), whiteclimbing (Carneades[Lycophotia] scandens), spotted legged (Porosagrotis vetusta), and dingy (Feliza subgothica). Poison bait is possibly the best all-round material for control. Use 1 lb. Paris green, 50 lb. bran, about 3 |b. sugar. First moisten the bran a little, then add the Paris green and mix well, then add the sugar as sweetened water. The bait should be considerably sweeter than the plants the larvae are feeding on. About 25-50 Ib. should suffice for an acre of vegetables and fruit. Fruit trees only will require much less. Keep the mixture well away from the trees or plants to prevent them from being injured. Tanglefoot has given good results in the case of fruit trees and larger plants, and banding with cotton batten is also useful. Running chickens are very effec- tive in an orchard. Cultivation methods assist considerably. Cover crops left over winter as a protection harbour the larvae, the eggs of which might be destroyed if the sowing of the crop were delayed a little to allow of this. Taytor (L. E.). Eeonomie Ornithology.—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 37-41. The author summarises his remarks by stating that there is a chance of imported birds becoming a pest and upsetting the balance of nature, and that scientific societies should protest against permission being granted for the introduction of any exotic birds into the country, either from aesthetic or economic considerations. At the close of the ensuing discussion it was moved and seconded, “ That this Society, in view of recent researches into the economic value of introduced birds in other countries, disapproves of the practice of granting per- mits for the introduction of any exotic birds into this province.” This was carried unanimously. Swaine (J. M.). The economic importanee of Canadian Ipidae [Scolytidae.|—Proc. Entom. Soc. Br. Columbia, Victoria, B.C., no. 3, N.S., 1913, pp. 41-43. The genus Dendroctonus contains a number of species most injurious to conifers; D. piceaperda, Hopk., has killed an immense amount of the finest spruce timber in Maine and New Brunswick. JD. valens, Lec., is commonly found in dying bark of spruce and pine logs, and not rarely is the primary cause of the death of the trees. In British 25 Columbia it is assisting D. brevicomis in killing bull-pine. An un- described species of Dendroctonus breeds in the fire-injured timber of Manitoba, and has killed jack-pine, mostly near the burns. D. simplex breeds in dying larch-bark from Manitoba eastward, and apparently kills many trees weakened by the larch sawfly. Another undescribed Dendroctonus, assisted by species of the genus Ips (Tomicus), is apparently killing much white spruce along the Athabaska river. D. pseudotsugae, Hopk., everywhere kills injured and weakened trees, and frequently much green timber. D. monticolae, Hopk., has killed many western white pines (Pinus monticola) in the Sugar Lake region of British Columbia, and the outbreak is still spreading. It also kills the black pine there. D. engelmanni, D. borealis, D. murrayanae, and D. obesies are variably destructive to spruce and pine in the Province. Many species of genus Ips (Tomicus) are abundant in dying bark of pine, spruce, and larch. They are mostly secondary enemies, seldom attacking green timber. Some species, however, are injurious to pine and spruce in British Columbia and Alberta, and Ips balsameus, Lec., is a serious enemy to balsam fir throughout Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, also injuring larch to a lesser degree. Polygraphus rufipennis, Kirby, and allied undescribed forms are everywhere im- portant secondary enemies to pine, spruce, and larch. Several species of Phloeosinus are locally injurious to cedars. Certain twig-beetles of the genus Pityophthorus at times become sufficiently numerous to check and, rarely, kill the infested trees. Such injury was abundant on jack-pine in northern Ontario, and bull-pine in British Columbia. Belonging to this group are the peach-tree bark-beetle (Phloeotribus liminaris) and the fruit-tree bark-beetle (Hccoptogaster rugulosus) which are important pests in southern Ontario, and the former breeds also in the wild cherry in Quebec Province. The clover bark-beetle (Hylastinus obscurus, Marsh.) is injurious to red mammoth, alsike and crimson clovers in parts of Quebec and Ontario. The deciduous trees of Canadian forests suffer less from this family. Ambrosia- beetles, do not, as a rule, attack sound timber; in British Columbia their injury is only noticed in felled timber left out of water, or in fire- injured trees. P. F. Die Bekampfung des Heu- und Sauerwurms mit Nikotin wahrend des Jahres 1913. [The use of nicotin against the vine moth in 1913.|-—Luxemburger Weinzeitung, Grevenmacher, 1, no. 29, Ist Nov. 1913, pp. 499-506. A Bordeaux mixture was used, and to it were added 14 parts soap jelly and 14 parts of Evert’s tobacco extract (10%) per 100 parts spray. Eight reports were dealt with. Three stated there was no foreign _ taste in the must, two reported a bad taste, and the remaining three avery bad one. Too strong a percentage of nicotin (4%), and in one case the admixture of casein, are supposed to account for this. Several experimenters suggested that the copper was the cause and not the nicotin. Particular stress is laid on the fact that the successful use of poisons can only be expected when the vineyard is at the same time efficiently protected against Oidiwm and Peronospora. Nicotin is most advantageously employed when the flight of the moths is at its height. 26 Spraying must be carefully and thoroughly carried out, otherwise it is | best not to incur a useless outlay. Nicotin will keep for years if packed in air-tight containers. Wituiams (B. 8.). Hadena oleracea destructive to Tomatoes.—Ento- mologist, London, xlvi, Dec. 1913, p. 333. In a short note, attention is drawn to the fact that Polia (Hadena) oleracea, L., has done great injury to tomatoes all over England. The only remedy seems to be to collect the larvae by hand, and to take off the top layer of soil, when the insects are in the pupal stage, and burn it, both of which processes involve considerable labour. Being under glass, the insects are protected from birds, and apparently from parasites also. Fumigation had not been tried. FRIEDRICHS (K.). Ueber den gegenwartigen Stand des Bekamfung des Nashornkafers (Oryctes rhinoceros, L.) in Samoa. [On the present state of the campaign against the Rhinoceros Beetle in Samoa.|—Der Tropenpflanzer, Berlin, xvii, nos. 10, 11, 12, Oct.- Nov.-Dec. 1913, pp. 538-558, 603-619, 660-675, 19 figs., 2 sketch-maps. The prosperity of Samoa is so largely dependent on the coconut palm that the control of the Rhinoceros Beetle constitutes a problem of the very highest importance. Where the Government has taken immediate and energetic measures, the pest has been reduced, but on the whole there has been an increase. The planting district around Apia has suffered most, as the beetle has undisturbed opportunities for breeding in the cacao and Hevea plantations. and the coconut palms being there comparatively few in number, serve as an attraction for countless beetles. The coast belt, being owned mostly by natives, who prosecute weekly searches, does not suffer so much. The direction in which the pest spreads is generally determined by the prevailing wind. It was introduced with Hevea plants brought to Apia from Ceylon, and traces of its ravages were first noticed in 1910. On the east coast the damage is not very apparent, but the trade winds on the west coast have caused a rapid spread. The bush palm (Cyphokentia samoensis, Warb.) also provides the insects with food, but it is not feasible to combat the pest in the bush. Protection of the Palms. Vosseler says that coarse-grained sand keeps off the beetle. This may be useful in the angles of the leaves, but does not protect the yet unopened leaves, which suffer most. Labour charges would also be heavy, as it is necessary to climb the palms in order to apply the sand. The tropical rains will also soon wash it away; experiments are being made with tar, as a protection for the young leaves, but it seems possible that it may prove injurious to the plants. Should a mixture of tar (3) and petroleum (4) reach the growing point through a bore-hole, it will kill the palm. Though this mixture was considered to be excellent by a local planter, the author saw numerous trees destroyed in this way on one plantation. It has not yet been ascertained if tar alone acts in this way. 27 Control by Collection. In the early morning, workers provided with a metal case and heavy knife search all rotten wood, heaps of leaves, etc:, which may harbour the beetles. Every native must bring in a minimum number fixed by the village chief. About 9 o’clock the count is made and destruction effected by fire or boiling water. At the present time this collecting is the most efficacious measure. But _ the natives often render it illusory, either by gathering in special _ likely places instead of on their own plantations, or by robbing the trap _ heaps got together by the Government workers. Also they probably breed beetles for the purpose. But in spite of this, collecting remains a valuable aid. Decoy Methods. Light has been used, but without much success. The author thinks it is only useful as an aid to other decoy methods. He has also experimented with toddy, but cannot report favourably _ on its usefulness as a means of attracting the beetles. Trap heaps were employed as soon as the pest appeared, and much money was expended on them. Groups of 10 to 20 natives, under _ white supervision, erect heaps of old wood (especially pieces of palm trunk), leaves (especially of the banana), and earth. The lower part of the pile is in a trough, the upper part stands above the soil level. The total height is about 20 inches, generally less. Smaller heaps composed of leaves only have been used, but are being abandoned, as the natives turn them over. Cacao pods are buried in some planta- tions and make good traps. The heaps are turned over every six or eight weeks. This frequent search ensures the discovery of nearly every larva. Both females and males are found in these heaps; of 1,000 captured beetles 566 were females and 434 males, but the pro- portion varies considerably. At present there are about 600 heaps, and in 1912, 11,300 beetles, 220 pupae, nearly 776,000 larvae and over 180,000 eggs were collected. In round figures, about a million pests were caught at a cost of 28,000 marks (£1,400), which works out at a little over 1 farthing each. The author is of opinion that at present this method is as useful and as necessary as in the past. It has been shown that the applica- tion of carbon bisulphide to the heaps is effective, and the poison need only be used every 3 months; the cost would be less than that of digging up the heaps. Besides carbon bisulphide a number of other substances were tried. Saltpetre gave really good results. It can be used with buried cacao pods; garden beds can be manured with it; trap heaps—which are no longer required as such—can be treated with it ; it can be used on tree-trunks and roots. Removal of breeding places. This is a most important measure. Dead palm-wood is always dangerous, and by boring a hole in the trunk and filling it with saltpetre, the latter will gradually permeate the wood. How long this action will be useful is still an open ques- tion. It is quite clear that by careful cleaning of the plantations the pest can be reduced. Natural enemies. One of the reasons for the spread of the pest in these islands is the lack of natural enemies. The semi-wild pigs of the natives are not at all to be despised in this respect, and are already used for this purpose. Attempts have been made to introduce the 28 mole (Talpa europaea), but it is difficult to do so. Hedgehogs soon succumbed to the climate. Fowls and other birds are not of much use. The author examines at length the question of parasites, and comes to the conclusion that parasitic wasps appear to be of greater import- ance than all the other enemies of this beetle. He mentions, amongst — others, Scolia carnifex, Coq., and Scolia oryctophaga, Coq., as apparently — specially suitable, if their introduction can be effected on a large scale. — But all animal enemies appear to yield in importance to a parasitic | fungus (Metarrhizium anisopliae), which occurs in the islands, and © evidently has other hosts besides the Rhinoceros Beetle. When the © author first had a large number of larvae delivered to him, he noticed brown spots on some of them. Having isolated these, they died in about a week and became completely covered with this fungus. Healthy larvae were brought in contact with the bodies, and all suc- cumbed. Practically all the larvae in the laboratory became infected, and died. The fungus thrives best in moderately damp cultures. A trap heap of leaves and rubbish infected with the fungus, has con- served its deadly powers for several months, up to the time of writing, and has been fatal to every brood init. The fungus does not prevent the beetles from laying their eggs there, which is a most important point. The fungus also spreads in the neighbourhood of the heap. Experiments have proved that the flying beetles can carry it to other © breeding grounds. As the thoroughly infected heaps would only require a simple examination once every 3 months (later on once every 6 months), the number of heaps could be increased tenfold. The best method is to use cacao pods buried under a layer of earth. Quite a fresh pods should not be used. The fungus is already in satisfactory — use on the plantations, and planters have begun to assist its spread. — A lengthy bibliography of pests of the coconut concludes the paper. Von Graumnitz (C.). Die Blattschneider-Ameisen Stidamerikas. [Leaf-cutting Ants of S. America.|—Internat. Entom. Zeits., Guben, vii, no. 35, 29th Nov. 1913, p. 233, & no. 36, 6th Dec. - 1913, pp. 240-242. The leaf-cutting ants, Atta discigera, A. coronata and A. hystrix, are very prevalent in parts of Brazil. The present paper gives a descrip- tion of their leaf-cutting habits and the structure of their nests. The trees which they most persistently attack are the orange and peach, and in the vegetable garden, the cabbage and allied plants; they attack also ripe bananas, maize, rice, etc. They do not use the leaves directly as food, but allow them to rot and thus produce a favourable medium for the growth of the fungus, Rozites gongylophora, which is their staple article of diet. The nests are underground, and are built on a very complicated and ingenious plan; the eggs are laid in the a A RR I a a — ip na lit AA nn 0 PRI = decaying leaves, which form a large porous mass in the nest, rather — like a sponge. In this mass are found eggs, larvae, and pupae in all stages of development; the fungus growing on the leaves serves as food material for the larvae as well as for the adult ants. The ants cultivate this particular fungus very carefully, destroying any other kinds of fungi which make their appearance. It is quite common to find snakes’ eggs amongst the leaves; the warmth given out by the | | ; : J ) . ; 29 decomposing mass makes it a suitable place for this purpose; among others, the eggs of Elaps corallinus have been identified. Ruectes (A. G.). Notes on a Chestnut-tree Parasite. — Science, Philadelphia, xxxviil, no. 989, 12th Dec. 1913, p. 852. While working in connection with the Pennsylvania Chestnut Tree Blight Commission last winter, the author noticed numerous burrows which were almost always present in the bark of the chestnuts, par- ticularly in the smooth-barked trees. He was satisfied that the bur- _ rows were not the work of Agrilus bilineatus, as had been suggested _ by Metcalf and Collins in the U.S. Farmers’ Bulletin, No. 467. They eventually proved to be due to the larvae of a small moth, which hiber- nate in the burrows in either the second or third instar. When finished, the burrow is not very extensive, the longest being not more _ than six inches, and extending longitudinally. While the insect is _ within the trees the burrow cannot be detected externally. After the emergence of the larva, however, the bark swells over the burrow, often cracking and making a conspicuous wound. ‘The larvae leave the trees during the first part of June through minute exit holes, _ dropping to the soil, in which they spin a seed-pod-iike cocoon, char- acteristic of some of the Microlepidoptera. The single perfect insect obtained was in too injured a condition to be identified. The number of exit holes made by these insects is enormous in any given area of _ chestnut forest, and as these holes are made just at the time when the _ blight spores are very abundant, and conditions generally are favour- able for their development, it is believed that this insect has an impor- _ tant bearing upon the spread of the chestnut blight, Hudothia parasitica. Doane (R. W.). The Rhinoceros Beetle—(Oryctes Rhinoceros, L.) in Samoa.—J/. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi, no. 6, Dec. 1913, pp. 437-442, 2 pl. The Rhinoceros Beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros, L., has long been known as a more or less serious pest of coconut trees in many tropical coun- tries. It is gradually extending its range, and wherever it gains a foothold in a new country its ravages usually cause great financial loss. The island of Upolo, German Samoa, is one of the recent places to suffer from the introduction of this pest. In districts where the infestation is worst, hundreds of trees are being killed on many of the plantations, and many others badly injured. As the beetles attack the most vital part, the succulent crown, one or two will quickly kill a young tree. Older trees are better able to withstand attack, but even a few beetles in them will soon make them unproductive. The beetles usually attack the tree between the base of a leaf and the trunk, or between the bases of two leaves. Having reached the tender heart of the tree, the beetles feed on it, probably for some weeks, often destroying much or all of it, thus killing the tree. The life-history of the insect has not been thoroughly worked out, but in Samoa it probably takes a year to complete its development. The eggs, which are laid in batches of 10-30, hatch in a very short time, and the larvae feed for several weeks, possibly for some months. a eee 30 ‘The pupae are rarely seen, and never in considerable numbers ; many of the larvae probably pupate at some distance below the surface of the ground. The pupal stage lasts for about 10 days to a fortnight. In Samoa many control methods have been tried. In the author’s opinion, tar is the most valuable repellent, but its use gives only a small measure of protection. Trees treated with lysol, or lysol mixed with tar, continued to be badly injured. Sand was poured into the crowns of a few trees, and on others a mixture of sand and arsenic, care being taken that plenty lodged at the bases of all the leaves. The arsenic injured the leaves; otherwise the trees were not badly attacked, but there was not sufficient time to test this method thor- oughly. Dusting with white arsenic, Paris green, etc., is not satis- factory, owing to the fact that the beetles do not swallow the leaves or fibre. Pouring carbon bisulphide into the holes made by the beetles, killed the beetles, but also injured the tree. Bait traps, if carefully prepared, are quite effective on well-cleaned plantations, but they — are expensive and require close supervision. For the present, the most effective method is to destroy the breeding places of the beetle by removing all decaying logs, etc., from the plantation. [See above, pp. 26-28. | 7 Wotcott (G. N.). Report on a Trip to Demerara, Trinidad and Barbados during the Winter of 1913.—J/. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi. no. 6, Dec. 1913, pp. 443-457. In Demerara the small moth-borer (Diatraea saccharalis, F.), and the closely allied species, D. lineolata, Walk., and D. canella, Hmp., are the most serious pests of cane. On nearly every estate there are gangs of boys, sometimes as many as 50 in a gang, who do nothing else the year round but cut out the dead hearts killed by the Diatraea | larvae. It shows how serious the pest is that the boys have no diffi- culty in collecting 700 larvae day after day. The problem of control- ling Diatraea is most seriously complicated by the dry and wet seasons. There are always two, and sometimes four, wet seasons and as many dry. Cane is cut towards the end of each dry season, and seed cane is planted at each wet season. A crop takes 18 months to mature, so that cane in all stages of growth is present on a single estate at all times. Moths will fly out a hundred yards or more from the older cane and deposit eggs on the young cane from which all the dead hearts have just been cut out, and in a few weeks the infestation will beas heavy as if no control had been attempted. In Demerara there are four insect parasites of Diatraea, but in spite of these, and of the artificial control, Diatraea still remains a serious pest. The one measure that can be adopted is the simultaneous planting of enormous blocks of cane; it is the indiscriminate scattering of the fields of all ages of cane on an estate that makes possible the rapid and easy infestation of young cane. The only other serious cane pest in Demerara is the giant moth- borer (Castnia locus, F.). The larva enters the cane near the ground and burrows down into the root and up into the stalk. There are fortunately several practical methods of control. They are as follows : (1) Collecting the adult moths in butterfly nets; (2) cutting out the young larvae in the young ratoon cane; (3) cutting out the older dl larvae and pupae from the stools of cane after the crop has been harvested ; (4) in the case of very heavy infestation, the flooding of the entire field after the cane is cut. Much cane is also injured by termites; they never attack sound -eane, but as all the cane in Demerara is infested with Dvuatraea, the termites have no difficulty in finding a place of entrance into the interior of the stalk. The method of control adopted consists of carry- ing the nests away and burning them. The sugar-cane mealy bug (Pseudococcus calceolariae, Mask.), was moderately abundant, but it is not considered a serious pest; it is kept in check by a predaceous beetle, the name of which has not been determined.* [See this Review, per. A, i, p. 521.] In Trinidad the most injurious pest is not Diatraea, as it is in practi- cally all other sugar-producing countries of the West Indies, but a froghopper (Tomaspis varia, F. [saccharina, Dist.]). It passes through its larval stages underground, feeding upon the roots of cane, grass and weeds ; the adult sucks juice from the leaves and stalk of the cane, but produces no serious injury.t Despite the small size of the nymphs, the enormous numbers in which they appear on the roots of the cane, either kill the cane outright, or so stunt the growth that the crop is worthless. The control of this pest is rendered the more difficult because of the lack of vulnerable places in its life-history. As all ordinary methods of control are impracticable a novel plan of cam- paign has been adopted. This depends on the circumstance that the fungus Metarrhizium amsopliae, Sorokin, produces a fatal disease among froghoppers called Green Muscardine. Planters cultivate this fungus, and at certain seasons dust its spores over the entire fields ; although this method is of too recent origin to have borne the test of time, it is already stated that in one examination made by Mr. Urich, where spores had been applied early, at least 95 per cent. of the nymphs in the stool of the cane were found dead and covered with the characteristic spore-masses of Metarrhizium. Castolus plagvati- collis, an efficient predator on the adult froghopper, has been imported from Mexico. Two Chalcidid parasites have been bred by Mr. Guppy, Mr. Urich’s assistant. Castnia licus does great injury to canes in Trinidad. The only practicable method of control is the catching of the adults with butterfly nets ; this has produced good results. Among the more important minor pests are the weevil stalk-borer (Metamasius hemupterus, var. decoloratus, Gyl.), the “ gru-gru” worm (Rhyncophorus palmarum, L.) and the sugar-cane mealy bug (Pseudococcus calceolariae, Mask.) In Barbados the froghopper and the larger moth-borer are absent, but otherwise the insect pests are similar. Dviatraea does an enor- mous amount of injury; both kinds of the sugar-cane mealy bugs (Pseudococcus calceolariae, Mask., and P. sacchari, Ckll.) are abundant. Delphax saccharivora, Westw., the sugar-cane leafhopper, and Metama- sius hemipterus, L., the weevil stalk-borer, also do considerable damage. With the exception of Diatraea, however, all these are minor pests in *[Specimens of this Coccinellid, sent by Mr. G. E. Bodkin, from Demerara, and by Mr. J. R. Bovell, from Barbados, have now been identified as Hyperaspis trilineata, Muls.—Ep. ] 7[This view is disputed by Mr. J. C. Kershaw, who has just devoted a year to the special study of this insect.—Ep.] 32 comparison with the injury produced by the weevil root-borer (Dia- prepes abbreviatus, L.) No effective method of control is known, but — the numbers of the grubs can be considerably reduced by hand- picking of the adults, which collect in large numbers on corn and sorghum. The insect eats most of the small roots and chews the centre out of the main tap-root. As regards Diatraea, Trichogramma minutum is its only parasite in Barbados. Another interesting pest, from the point of view of those interested in parasitism, is Phytalus smithi, which is parasitised by a black Scoliid wasp, Tiphia parallela, Smith. P. smithi occurs also in Mauritius; it was probably intro- duced there in cane sent from Barbados. Until now the controlling parasite, 7’. parallela, was not present in Mauritius, but efforts are being made to import it. Witson (H. F.). Notes on Podabrus pruinosus.—J1. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi, no. 6, Dec. 1913, pp. 443-457, 1 fig. This insect is one of the most important agents in the control of all forms of plant-lice. It has been very abundant in the Willamette Valley, Oregon, during the past two years. The rosy apple aphis (Aphis sorbt, Kalt. ?), the black cherry aphis (Myzus cerasi, F.), and the vetch aphis (Macrosiphum pisi, Kalt. ?) are held in check by this insect. The adults appear early in May, and are abundant by June. By July only a few individuals are found. They are commonly found in vetch fields, and in the rolls of infested apple and cherry leaves. They undoubtedly destroy many aphids in a day, and are of great economic value. The eggs were not observed in the field, but in the insectary they were deposited on the ground in masses. The larvae are found in the ground from 3-6 inches below the surface; they are pink in colour and covered with fine hairs. The pupae are found in earthen cells in the moist earth; at first they are white, then they change to pink, and then to dark blue. The adults are dark blue with light brown markings. Hinps (W. E.). Powdered Arsenate of Lead as an Insecticide.—J/. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi, no. 6, Dec. 1913, pp. 477-479. The use of powdered arsenate of lead is said to have given very satisfactory results as an insecticide; the statement is the result of experience, and direct experiment made in the Agricultural Experi- ment Station at Auburn, Alabama. It has the advantage over the paste preparation in that it weighs much less, and, therefore, the cost of transport is less; it is not liable to harden and cake, as the paste is ; and it is not so difficult to work up into a uniform suspension in water for spraying. Over Paris green it possesses the great advantage of not causing skin injury to the men using it. The Department of Entomology of the Alabama Experiment Station is now making an investigation covering the use of various forms of arsenate of lead, with a view to finding exactly what form is most effective, economical and generally satisfactory for use against various insect pests. For the present there is no reason why anyone should hesitate to use powdered arsenate of lead in preference to Paris green or any other arsenical poison. 4 / recorded as preying upon red spiders in California. ’ 4 , ; 33 Fett (E. P.). Arthrocnodazx carolina, n. sp.—J1. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi, no. 6, Dec. 1913, pp. 488-489. Mr. E. A. MacGregor, who reared this species both in 1912 and 1913 from red spiders on cotton, is of opinion that it is the most important natural agent in controlling this pest. The new species is allied to A. apiphila, Felt, and is distinct from A. occidentalis, Felt, which is Amendment to “‘ The Destructive Insect and Pest Act of Canada.” In line 14 of Regulation 3, the words “ Importations by mail shall be subject to the same Regulations,” have been deleted, and a new Regulation, No. 18, has been added, reading :— “18.—The importation of all nursery stock, including trees, shrubs, plants, vines, grafts, scions, cuttings or buds, through the mails, is prohibited, excepting greenhouse-grown florists’ stock, cut flowers, herbaceous perennials and bedding plants, which will be admitted provided that a detailed statement of the contents is attached to such arcels.” 4 This Regulation takes effect on and after the first day of March, 1914. SupEIKIN (G. S.). BpequtTenw cenbCKO-xO3AWCTBEHHbIXb pacTeHii Boponenckow ryOepHin, no HadntopeHiamb 1912. [Pests of agricultural plants in the Government of Voronezh, according to observations made in the year 1912.|—Published by the Zemstvo, Voronezh, 1913, 68 pp. This is a report of the Government Entomological Station of Voronezh, which was only inaugurated in May 1912. Insects vnjurious to crops.—Caloptenus italicus, L., appears periodi- cally, and is very widespread, but last year there were fewer com- plaints of its activity. Anthothrips aculeatus, ¥., and LInmothrips denti- corns, Hal., were found in some districts; the remedy suggested is to keep the fields clean from weeds, and to plough-in the stubble in which the insects winter. For Aelia acuminata, L., the following remedies are recommended: hand-picking, catching the young (wingless) specimens in trenches (containing bait-holes) ; surrounding the fields and spraying with soap water or naphtha emulsion at dusk or during moonlight nights. Aphis gossypii, Glov., is specially injurious to Cucurbitaceous plants. Remedies : (1) repeated spraying with soapy water (1 lb. green soap, 4 lb. ordinary soap, and 2°7 gals. water) every 10 days from the moment of the appearance of the insects till the time of oviposition; (2) destroying by burning all attacked plants; (3) frequent re-ploughing of the infected areas during autumn and spring ; (4) rotation of crops ; (5) the removal and burning of all stalks and leaves after the harvest. The boring of grain by the larvae of Sitotroga cerealella, Ol., and Tinea granella, L., in stores, as well asin the fields, is very frequent. Remedies : (1) the immediate disinfection of the storehouses by carbon bisulphide ; (2) the sorting of the seeds by winnowing in autumn and spring before (C1) C 7 34 sowing, as well as after thrashing, and burning or giving to cattle the winnowed seeds; (3) careful and deep planting of the seeds when sowing maize; (4) the destruction of the lumpy stratum formed by the caterpillars on the top of heaps of grain. Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L., appears yearly, doing more or less damage. Last year the caterpillars in some parts totally devoured the sun- flowers, maize, pumpkins, melons and cucumbers. The caterpillars of Homoeosoma nebulella, Hb., do considerable damage to sunflower seeds. Plusia gamma, L., injures many cultivated plants, principally beets and linseed, but last year there were practically no complaints of its activity. Lema melanopa, L., has done considerable damage to oats, barley, and summer-sown wheat, during the latter half of June and the beginning of July. As remedies are recommended: (1) shaking the insects off the oats with brooms in the mornings, after which the attacked spots must be dusted with ashes or lime through a sieve ; (2) the spraying of three per cent. solution in water of barium chloride or Paris green (1 oz. green and 3 oz. freshly slaked lime in 6 gals. water) ; (3) summer sowing instead of winter sowing, or the earlier sowing of summer crops. Psylliodes attenuatus, Koch, Chaetocnema concinna, Chevr., and P. breviuscula, Fald., have damaged hemp seeds and beets. As a remedy “a tanclefoot cart” is suggested, consisting of a board on wheels, smeared on the lower side with molasses or pitch, to be wheeled over the plants during the hot hours of the day, so as to catch the insects when they jump. Calandra granaria, L. In an appendix to the report the campaign against this pest in the municipal grain stores of Voronezh is described. Carbon bisulphide has been used successfully, and it has been noticed that this remedy gives better results in warm weather than during cold or windy weather. The germinating capacity of the grain is not affected if the proportions do not exceed about 1 lb. of bisulphide for each ton of grain. Lethrus apterus, Laxm., damages various young plants, and particularly sown sunflower seeds. The following remedies — are given: (1) trenches round the plantation ; (2) spraying with Paris — green ; (3) ploughing the infected plots in autumn or early spring, | and keeping them clear from weeds to the end of May; (4) hand- picking. Amsoplia austriaca, Hbst., is very widespread in the Government. The usual remedy consists in hand-picking, the insects being driven by a rope to one end of the field, where they are at once picked up by men with sacks. The Zemstvo pays a premium for the collection of this insect, and the author suggests that this ought to be encouraged and properly organised. The insect usually begins by damaging the ears of winter-grown crops, passing afterwards to barley and summer- | sown wheat. The beetles oviposit in July on the borders of the fields, so that the ploughing of these parts in August would lead to the destruction of the eggs and of the young larvae. Mayetiola (Cecidomyia) destructor, Say, is a serious pest of grain, and is found everywhere in the Government. The remedies usually applied are ploughing, burning of the stubbles and trap-crops. _ The larvae of Bibio hortulanus, L., damaged sugar-beets in one — locality ; as remedies are suggested: the complete removal of the 3D remains of the harvest from the plantations ; harrowing the infested _ plots in autumn or early spring, after spreading quicklime ; and spray- ing in early spring with a 4 per cent. solution of Chile saltpetre. Hylemyia coarctata, Fall., has done considerable damage to winter rye in one locality. Oscinis frit, L., is widespread, and often mistaken for M. destructor; it has damaged barley and black barley in some _ places. To fight the insect the author recommends: (1) to sow ‘summer crops as early as possible, and use seeds which tiller less ; (2) to place the seeds at a uniform depth, so that the sprouts should _ appear simultaneously ; (3) not to allow the summer crops to get over-ripe ; (4) to replough the stubbles immediately the harvest is over ; and (5) not to sow summer crops near the damaged winter ones. _ Orchard Pests——Tingis piri, Geoffr., is found everywhere, and damages apple, pear and cherry trees, from July to September. Repeated sprayings with soap water (1 lb. ordinary soap in 2°7 galls. _ water) kills the insects. The autumn cleaning of the orchards from. _ the fallen leaves and the burning of all waste is also recommended.’! _ Pyslla mali, Forst., has been proved to exist in several districts, and in the opinion of the author, probably occurs in‘all the others, although _ growers do not notice its presence, and attribute the injury done by it _ to frost. Repeated and abundant spraying of the trees in late autumn and early spring with 3—5 per cent. solution of green copperas when _ the larvae appear; spraying with tobacco or quassia extract; and burning the small branches cut away in autumn and spring, are the remedies suggested. ; Psylla pyricola, Forst., Aphis poma, de G., Myzus cerasi, ¥., Hyalop- _terus prum, F., and Rhopalosiphum ribis, Buckton, are found everywhere, _ and were successfully controlled by spraying with soapy water. Lepr- _ dosaphes ulmi, L., Mytilaspis pomorum, Bouché, and another unidenti- fied Coccid were very widespread on apple trees. Amongst the sug- gested remedies are: spraying and smearing of the leafless trees in - autumn and spring with limewash, containing 2-3 wine-glasses of erude carbolic acid or 1 lb. of green copperas to 2°7 galls. of the solution ; the intensive manuring of the attacked trees; the pruning of the crowns ; spraying with carbol or naphtha emulsions in May, June, etc. The author considers that Hyponomeuta malinellus, Z., takes the _ first place amongst the pests of orchards in the Government. Its _ caterpillars are most active throughout June. The best remedy is spraying with tobacco decoction (a handful of tobacco to each 2 gals. _ of water), which must be done when the caterpillars are still young _ and have not yet prepared their webs. It is also useful to spray the leafless trees abundantly and repeatedly in autumn and in spring, before the swelling of the buds, with a 5 per cent. solution of sulphate of iron; to burn the thin branches cut away from the trees; and especially to spray the crown with milk of lime to which sulphate of iron is added (1 lb. of sulphate to each 2°7 galls. of the solution). Hyponomeuta variabilis, Z., flew in great numbers near the town of Voronezh at the beginning of August, the larvae mining the leaves of cherries. | There was only one generation of Cydia (Carpocapsa) pomonella in ‘Cl) 0.2 36 1912; although in June and July the caterpillars occurred everywhere in fruits, no pupae or moths of the second generation were found. Cydia funebrana, Tr., also damaged plums ; the liming of the stems, the shaking down and collection of the wormy plums, and the digging q up of all brushwood near the trees in autumn and in spring, are the _ remedies recommended. The caterpillars of Bembecia hylaeiformis, Lasp., injured the stems of raspberry bushes; the most effective remedy is to dig out the injured stems with the roots in autumn and to burn them. There were complaints from various districts of damage to fruit trees by Cossus cossus, L., and Zeuzera pyrina, L. The larvae of the following Lepidoptera are recorded as causing serious defoliation of fruit trees :—Aporia crataegi, L., Malacosoma neustria, L., Lymantria dispar, L., and Euproctis chrysorrhoea, L., 408 which the usual remedies are recommended. Among the injurious sawflies noted are :—Pteronus ribesuw, Scop., on gooseberry bushes ; Selandria adumbrata, Klug, on the leaves of cherry, pear and apple trees; and S. fulvicorns, Klug, on plums. Sacuarov (N.). «Ho3aBka» (Galerucella tenella, L.) Kakb Bpe- AMTeNb KNYOHMKM WM Apyrie BAAbI “3b rpynnbi Galerucini, BeTpb- yaroulecaA Bb ActpaxancHoi ry0. ([Galerucella tenella, L., as a pest of garden-strawberries, and other species of Galerucint found | in the Govt. of Astrachan.|—Published by the Entom. Sta. of the — Astrachan Society of Fruit-Growers, Market-Gardeners and Agricul- turists, Astrachan, 1913, 6 pp. There are several species of Galerucella found in the Government of Astrachan, such as Xanthomelaena, Schr., which injures elm trees ; G. viburin, Payk., attacking Viburnum opulus, and G. lineola, F., a pest of willows. Galerucella tenella, L., found by the author on strawberries, has not been previously recorded as injurious to these plants. The beetle winters underneath old leaves on the beds of ~ strawberries ; with the arrival of warm weather the insects appear ~ and feed on the young leaves, and oviposit during April and May; ~ the eggs are deposited by the female in a hole gnawed by it in the leaf, 3-10 eggs being laid in such a hole; the egg stage lasts 12-14 days. The author describes the egg, larva, pupa and imago, as well as the damage done. The remedies suggested are: the destruction of weeds on the beds and keeping the soil friable continuously during the whole summer ; but the most effective remedy is spraying with Paris green (3 lb. of green and | lb. of lime dissolved in about 32-33 gals. of water) ; the spraying must be done first in April, as soon as the young leaves appear, then again in May, when the ovaries are formed, and again, 1f neces- sary, after the removal of the berries. As the insects keep mostly on the lower side of the leaves, special attention must be paid to spraying from below. Russian Crop Pests.—VWUsptéctia [nasHaro Ynpasnenin Semne- yctTpouctsa wu 3emneptnia. [Weekly Gazette of the Central Board of Land Admumstration and Agriculture,| St. Petersburg, no. 47, Tth Dec. 1913, p. 1210. The past autumn was not favourable to the activity of various pests, — ). 37 and they have not, therefore, caused much damage to sprouted winter- sown crops. LHuxoa segetum was chief amongst the pests noticed, and it has been reported from nearly all the Governments outside the “chornoisiom ”’ area, and also from the following “ chornoisiom ” _ Governments :—Orel, Riazan, Tambov, Voronezh, Kiev, Taurida, Ekaterinoslav, and the Province of Don. Winter-sown crops, especi- ally the early ones, were, however, seriously injured by this pest in Kazan, Viatka, Olonetz, and the western parts of Perm, and in some localities it has even been found necessary to re-sow. Elaterid larvae _ have done some small damage in Kiev, Cherson, Charkov, Tchernigov, Poltava and Vitebsk. Mayetiola (Cecidomyia) destructor has been reported from Kursk, Orel, Tambov, Podolia, Kiev, Bessarabia, Cherson, Taurida, Ekaterinoslav and Poltava; while the presence of Oscinis frit has been noticed in Kursk and Charkov. In Tula and in the Vistula Governments the crops were damaged by larvae of Melolontha. As to Asiatic Russia, Huxoa segetum and Elaterid larvae were _ reported from various parts of Tobolsk, Tomsk and Enisseisk, and in the steppe provinces of Akmolinsk, Semipalatinsk and Turgai, although the damage done by them was very small and limited to a few localities only. In Tobolsk, Haltica and Phyllotreta were found, while from Enisseisk and the province of Akmolinsk M. destructor was reported. Egg-clusters of locusts were deposited in large numbers in Tobolsk and Akmolinsk. All these pests have done, however, very little damage, and disappeared with the early rains. “Sisazov (M.). HanOonbe pewesnii wv CuNbHOAbCTBYIOWIN MWHCeKT- MCA) ANA YHAYTOMeHIA CapaH4eBbIXb Hac bHOMbIXd. [The cheapest and most effective insecticide for the destruction of locust pests. | — «TypkectancHoe Cenpckoe Xo3aiictBo» [Agriculture of Turkestan,” | Tashkent, no. 1, Jan. 1913, pp. 30-35. The author points out the advantages of sodium arsenite as com- pared with the insecticide usually applied in Turkestan, viz., Paris green with lime. The former dissolves easily in water, giving a solu- tion which does not choke the sprayer ; it withstands the influence of even heavy rains, when mixed simply with milk of lime and not with molasses or treacle, sticking firmly to the plants, and not requiring _ repeated sprayings; and under equal conditions and in equal doses it proves twice as rapid in its effects as Paris green. He also states that whereas Paris green contains only 24:3 per cent. of metallic arsenic (not arsenic acid), sodium arsenite contains 45°2 per cent. The author further deals with the prices of this chemical and the duties on it in Russia, and gives a comparative table showing the amount and cost of both insecticides necessary for one dessiatin (2°7 acres) in Turke- stan. From this it appears that when using sodium arsenite it is possible to obtain a saving of from 30 to 60 kopecks (73d. to 1/3) per dessiatin ; taking into consideration that in Turkestan the campaign against locusts is distributed over large areas—50,000—60,000 dessiatins (162,000 acres)—this would result in a saving of about 10,000 rubles (£2,000). The author points out that sodium arsenite, like Paris green, may 38 burn the plants, and requires careful handling by the workmen engaged in the operations. PontATovsky (S.). Hb Bonpocy 0 Goppbot cb Mapokcnon Hobdpinkoi, ' Bb Byxapb. [On the question of the fight against Stawronotus maroccanus, Thb., in Bokhara.j|— Agriculture of Turkestan, Tashkent, no. 2, Feb. 1913, pp. 109-114, 1 map. The author first reports on the results of fighting locusts in the five districts of south-eastern Bokhara in 1912, where the campaign has covered nearly 200 square miles, and has cost about £22,000. He mentions that the method of applying movable iron screens has proved very cheap, and resulted in considerable saving ; only some 270 acres of crops have been destroyed by the pests (non-flying insects), and enormous masses of the latter have been destroyed. In the eastern part of the Khanate no large swarms of locusts have been noticed — since the campaigns of 1910-1911, but they are beginning to appear again, and it is estimated that next spring it will be necessary to start operations against them over an area of about 10 square miles. The favourable results were considerably diminished by the appearance of migrating locusts from the neighbouring steppes of Afghanistan, and apart from the damage done to crops by these flying swarms, they have deposited eggs over an area of 33 square miles, and about £32,000 are asked for the campaign during the next season. The author further draws serious attention to the fact of the immigration into Bokhara of locusts from Afghanistan, into which country according to statements by natives, they migrate from India, so that international endeavours are necessary to check the injurious activities of these — pests. The author points out how the fight against locusts in the province of Samarkand proved fruitless so long as no remedies were applied against them in Bokhara, and how the fighting of the insects in that country led to a diminution and even total disappearance of them in some localities of Russian Turkestan. This does not apply to two other species of locusts found in Turkestan, namely Caloptenus utalocus, L., which has a local breeding place, and Locusta mogratoria, is ‘which breeds in the delta of the Syr-Daria, as well as at that of the Amu- Daria, but rarely flies far from its breeding places. The author further urges upon the Government of Bokhara the absolute necessity of fighting the insects, the expenses not exceeding 0:1 per cent. of the budget of the Khanate, which itself depends on the harvest and on the land duties collected in kind; he also points out the importance of the cotton cultivation of Bokhara and Turkestan to the Russian textile industry. A map is appended showing the distribution of locusts in Central Asia. SITAZ0V (M.). Hb Bionorid Mapoxckot Ho6pinku. [On the biology | of Stauronotus maroccanus, Thb.|— Agriculture of Turkestan, Tashkent, no. 2, Feb. 1913, pp. 115-126, 9 figs., 2 pl. In the first part of his paper the author deals with the early stages of Stauronotus maroccanus, of which he gives a detailed description. There are five moults, and the period occupied by these stages is 35— > a a. ——. v _ 42 days. The second part is devoted to a consideration of the move- 39 ments of the swarms of larvae. After extensive investigations in the field, the author concludes that these movements are not influenced by such factors as wind, sun, etc.; nor do they take place in any - definite directions, being merely the fortuitous result of the gregarious instinct combined with the search for food. Cultivated crops appear to exercise no special attraction for these insects, and if the wild plants on the steppes afford sufficient food, the locusts will remain there during their whole period of development. On the other hand, the migratory movements of the flying locusts are more definite, the swarms always entering Russian Turkestan from the south, originating in Afghanistan. Smirnov (D.). [lonb3a, npwHocuman TpAcoryckamu Bb TypkectTaHs. [The utility of the Wagtail (Motacilla) in Turkestan. |—Agriculture of Turkestan, Tashkent, no. 3, March 1913, pp. 149-251. The author draws the attention of farmers to the value of these birds in destroying the common pest of lucerne in Turkestan, Hypera variabilis, Hbst. These weevils start ovipositing in the Merv oasis on young leaves of lucerne as early as February; in 1912 the author found larvae on the Ist March. Oviposition proceeds till April, and the larvae do considerable damage, estimated at 50 rubles (about £5 5s.) per dessiatin (2°7 acres); the damage is the more felt as at this time there are no supplies of lucerne from the previous year, and food for cattle is very dear. The larvae appear in greatest numbers in March, there being only one generation in the year. In March the wagtails appeared, and the author observed both Motacilla alba, L., and M. feldegu, Mich. ; the former species is not a resident, and soon disappeared. The author has found in the stomach of 5 birds, which were able to feed only half a day, 152 larvae of Hypera and 2 beetles ; he estimates that the whole flock of birds on the spot under observa- tion numbered a hundred, and that these would have destroyed as many as 6,000 larvae in one day. The importance of these birds is the greater, as the pest has no other natural enemies in Turkestan ; _ the author obtained only two specimens of the parasite Canidia curcu- honis out of a thousand larvae. He considers that all the birds of this genus are useful to farmers, as their life-habits are very similar. Portcouinsky (J. A.). Hacbrombia, spepawia xnbOnomy 3epHy Bb amOapaxb MW CHNagaxb. [Insects injurious to grain in stores and warehouses.|—Tpygb! Bropo no QHToMonorin Yuenaro Homu- Teta [nas. YnpaB. 3.43. [Memoirs of the Bureau of Entomo- ° logy of the Scientific Committee of the Central Board of Land Administration and Agriculture,| St. Petersburg, x, no. 5, 1913, pp. 84, 5 tables, 3 figs. The author prefaces his book by some introductory general remarks as to insects injurious to grain in Russia, where these pests have some- times destroyed more than half of the stored harvest in some localities, which, especially in the eighties of last century, seriously injured the export of Russian grain; he describes, generally, the nature of the 40 damage and its influence on the quality of grain and on human beings consuming bread prepared from such flour. He also deals with some of the generally applied remedies, mentioning first salt, the use of which was recommended even in the eighteenth century. Another old remedy is birch-tar, and the author has satisfied himself by experiments conducted some 8 years ago, that this substance does not in any way interfere with the quality of bread obtained from grain subjected to its influence, no smell or flavour remaining. Some experiments by A. I. Dobrodeev have shown that Calandra granarva although remaining alive for some considerable time when exposed to the emanations from tar, are unable to feed or copulate, and mostly remain lying motionless on their backs ; Anobium paniceum is better able to withstand its influence. A still better remedy than tar is naphthalene, the use of which has also been recommended by the author since 1905, and this is now con- sidered in Australia to be the principal preventive remedy. When used in small doses (small bags containing about 4 lb. of naphthalene each, put on the surface of the flour) and especially when applied to grain, it keeps away the insects and leaves no disagreeable taste in the bread prepared from such grain or flour. The author describes some experiments conducted on Sivtotroga cerealella, Anobium paniceum and Calandra granaria with naphthalene, which show that all these insects ultimately perish after being subjected to its emanations for a more or less considerable period, remaining most of the time m a ~ state of collapse. The methods of applying carbon bisulphide and hydrocyanic acid are also fully described. A description is given of the following beetles and their various stages, together with an account of their habits and the damage done by them :—Calandra granaria, L., C. oryzae, L., Anobium paniceum, L., Ptinus fur, L., Tenebrio molitor, L., Tribolium confusum, Duv,, Gnatho- cerus cornutus, F., and Silvanus surinamensis, L. In addition to the usual remedial measures, mention is made of the use of sheep skins, | which are spread in the evening on the stored grain ; the insects settle | on them and become entangled in the wool, so that they can be destroyed in the morning. Besides the above insects, there were frequently sent to the Bureau samples of damaged flour containing other species which evidently did not cause serious injury to the flour, such as Enicmus minutus, L., Lathridius bergrothi, Reit., etc. There were also found very frequently, and sometimes in large numbers, the imagos and larvae of Laemo- phloeus testaceus, F., which some authors (Curtis) regard as mjurious _ to grain, while others (Perris) consider it to be a rapacious insect. Tenebroides mauritanicus, L.., is both injurious to grain and useful in destroying some other insects there ; it damages much more than is necessary for its food by devouring the embryo of the grain. Amongst the moths, Sitotroga cerealella, Oliv., is specially injurious | in many parts of Caucasia and Transcaucasia ; in the western parts | of the government of Kutais, in some years it has destroyed the whole harvest of maize ; besides which it attacks also wheat, rye, and barley. The author describes the life-habits of this pest as recorded by 4] Haberlandt, Kollar and others. Some experiments conducted in the Bureau of Entomology by G. V. Zelenko have proved that in order to destroy all the stages of this pest completely at the usual room tem- perature, 14-16° R (64°-68° F-.), in an isolated space, it is necessary - to apply not less than 7 lb. of carbon bisulphide for every 1,000 cubic feet during 48 hours ; should it be required to get the same results in 24 hours, 104lb. of liquid are necessary. The samples freed from the pests must be kept in closed spaces and be protected by naphthalene or tar. Tinea granella, L., is commonly found in Russia in grain warehouses, but the damage done by it is not so great as that done by Calandra granaria. As remedies are mentioned the removal of the matted grain by means of rakes, which must be done before the autumn, 7.e., _ before the larvae pass away from the grain to pupate, and the lowering of the temperature of the store by means of ventilation holes, etc. Trachea (Hadena) basilinea, Schiff., is very frequently found in Russia _ inricks of unthrashed grain, and in stores, and often does great damage. These insects have only one generation during the year, the moths _ flying in summer, when the grain is developing in the ears, but the _ caterpillars are found during the whole spring, summer and autumn in different stages. The author describes the habits of the larvae and the damage done by them ; during the harvest time most of the cater- pillars fall from the ears to the earth, but in the evenings they get back to the sheaves remaining in the fields, and in this way they get ‘into the ricks and barns. During the autumn their activity depends on the temperature, and in warm autumns they do considerable damage. Kiln-drying kills only the caterpillars near the floor of the _ kiln; by thrashing with chains only some of the larvae are destroyed, _ while thrashing with machines gives better results ; winnowing does _ not separate them from the grain. Those larvae which remain in the _ fields feed on fallen grain or on grass, and pass the winter inside the stubble left in the fields. The author recommends that the sheaves _ should not be stacked in the same field in which they have been cut ; _ should this be impracticable, the sheaves ought to be piled on a clean spot, surrounded by a trench, the latter being also quite clean from straw. The ricks ought to be loose, so as to allow of the ventilation of the pile and the access of fresh cold air, which will make the cater- pillars harmless in the ricks till the arrival of warm weather. The caterpillars remaining in the fields can be best destroyed by allowing them to creep during the day underneath straw, spread in the field, which is afterwards burned. In the same way the stubble also must be burned, to facilitate which high-mowing is recommended. The third group of pests are mites of the family, TyROGLYPHIDAE, the most common representative of which in stored grain and flour is Tyroglyphus farinae, Koch; T. siro, L. and T. longior, Gervais, bcinz found mostly in cheese and less frequently in grain and flour. The author describes the life-habits of this species. According to the experiments of Zelenko on some representatives of the genus Cheyletus, living in dry hay and in stored clover seeds, 104 Ib. of carbon bisulphide for a space of 1,000 cubic feet are necessary to destroy the mites within 24 hours. 42 Sacuarov (N.). Megpbana wv mbppl Goppobi cb Hew. [Gryllotalpa vulgaris and remedie3 against it.|—Poster issued by the Entom. Sta. of the Astrachan Soc. of Horticulture and Agriculture, Astra- chan, 28th March 1913. This poster gives general information as to Gryllotalpa, accompanied by figures of the imago, larva, eggs and damaged cabbage root and seeds, and suggests as the only effective remedy to use baits of maize poisoned with arsenic. In order to prepare these baits a mixture of about 3 lb. of arsenic, 6 lb. of lime, and about 36 lb. of maize is boiled together till the grains of maize are quite soft, adding water as it evapo- rates. The grains of maize ought not to be broken, as the insects may miss them in the earth. Having prepared the baits, the maize is spread on mats to cool, after which it is sown on the infected spot, + lb. of maize being used for every 10 cubic sajens [490 cubic feet]. The sowing must be finished 5-7 days before cabbage is sown on the spot; early in spring, when there is no other food, the insects will devour the poisoned baits and perish. In autumn another remedy is recommended, the object of which is to catch the wintering insects ; for this purpose holes must be dug about 2-3 feet long, deep and wide, which are filled with well-rotted dung, and covered with earth; the insects enter these holes to hibernate, and at the first frosts they can be turned out and destroyed. Virxovsky (N.). Hpatkii o030pb rnaBHbuwuxd BpequTenen “ Gonbsnei KYATYPHbIXd WM AMKOpPAcTyWMXd pacTeHii Bb TexeHie 1912 r. Bb Beccapaécuon ry6. [Brief review of the chief pests and diseases of cultivated and wild plants noticed during 1912 in the Govt. of Bessarabia.|—Reprint from « Tpygbi Beccap. O6uw. EctecTB. 4 mioOuT. ecTecTBO3H. » [Studies from the Bessarabian Society of Naturalists and Friends of Nature-study,| Kishinev, lyst 913.) pp: Lie In an introduction to this review the author points out that the meteorological conditions in 1912 were specially favourable for various pests and diseases of plants. The following insect pests are mentioned _ in his list. Insect pests of orchards. LepipoprERA: Cydia (Carpo- capsa) pomonella, a real scourge throughout the Government ; Cydia JSunebrana, Tr., and C. putaminana, Stgr., appeared everywhere, attack- ing plums and walnuts late in the season, but were controlled by some unknown factor; Aporia crataegi, L., specially abundant in the ‘¢ Bessarabian Bukovina,” where the butterflies covered trees and earth “like snow”; the peasants there regard it as a sin to collect and destroy the nests of these pests ; Huproctis chrysorrhoea, L., this and the preceding species were destroyed in their nests by Parus major; Lymantria dispar, L., Malacosoma neustria, L., Hyponomeuta malinellus, Z., H. variabilis, Z., Zeuzera aesculi, L., and Cnethocampa processionea, L. CotzorrERa: Sciaphilus squalidus, Gyl., appeared early in spring in enormous quantities; Rhynchites bacchus, L., R. aequatus, L., R. pauaillus, Germ., R. betuletr, F., R. betulae, L. ; Anthonomus pomorum, L., yearly destroys the whole harvest in one apple orchard of about 108 acres; Hpicometis hirtella, L., and Lethrus apterus, Laxm. TENTHREDINIDAE: Hoplocampa brevis, Klug, H. fulvicorns, Klug, H. testudinea, Klug. Ruyncnora: Lecanium sp. 43 (rotundum, Réaum.), found in enormous quantities on plum trees in the “ Bessarabian Bukovina ”’ ; these pests favour the growth of a fungus disease, Capnodium salicinum, Mont., and have led to a marked decrease in fruit-growing in the district ; Lecaniwn mali, Sehr., chiefly on apple trees; Aspidiotus ostreaeformis, Curtis, on _ pears, less frequently on plums, and only occasionally on apples ; “Mytilaspis pomorum, Bouché, on pears and apples; Psylla pyri, L., did serious damage to pears; APHIDIDAE were very abundant during the year, injuring apples, plums and peaches; they were | ‘preyed on by numerous Coccinella septempunctata, L.; Tingus pyri; F., found only once; Phytoptus pyri, Pagenst. Insect pests of vine. Phylloxera vastatriz, Pl., found everywhere on old vine stems; Melolontha melolontha, L., in some vineyards more than 100 larvae were found underneath one vine; larvae of ELATERIDAE _ damaged young branches of vine; Humolpus vitis, F., Phytoptus vitis. 7 most widespread pest in the Government; Mayetiola (Cecidomyia) _ destructor, Say. ; Chlorops taeniopus, Mg. ; Anisoplia austriaca, Hbst. ; _ Melolontha melolontha, L.; Lema melanopus, L.; Jassus sexnotatus, - Fall. ; various aphides and thrips. _ Maize was injured by larvae of M. melolontha, L., Pentodon idiota, _ Hbst., ELATERIDAE, and Pyrausta nubilalis, Hb. ; the spread of the latter _ pest is favoured by the neglect of the peasants to burn or destroy the maize stubbles, which they keep as food for cattle during the winter _and spring, thus enabling the wintering pests to complete their develop- ment; the damage done by them is very serious. Winter rape was damaged by Entomoscelis adonidis, Pall., Athalia spinarum, F., and also occasionally by Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L.; the latter also injured or destroyed melons, maize, vine and other plants. Cleonus _ punctwentris, Germ., was noticed in small numbers on beet; Ofzo- 2 enius ligustict, L., on lucerne; and Apion apricans, Hbst., on _ clover. ___ Insect pests of market garden crops. Haltica oleracea, H. nemorum, _ Pieris brassicae, P. rapae, Mamestra brassicae and Aphis brassicae are _ the usual pests, for which no remedies are applied in Bessarabia. _ Paczosxt (J. K.). 0630pb BparoBb cenbcKaro xo3AvcTBa XepcoucHon TyGepoin wu OT4eTb no EctectsenHo-Victopuyechomy Myser 3a 1912-1913 roqb. [A Review of Pests of Agriculture in the Government of Cherson and the Report of the Natural History Museum for 1912-1913.]—EctectBenHo-Vctopuyeckii My3ei Xep- councKaro [y6. 3emctpa.—[Pubd. by the Nat. Hist. Museum of the Zemstvo of the Govt. of Cherson,| Cherson, 1913, 34 pp. Anisoplia austrica, Hbst., while totally absent in the northern parts of the Government, appeared in the south in numbers, suggesting that a serious outbreak of this insect may occur soon; this has not been the case for the last ten years. The larvae of Athous niger, L., damage wheat crops in some localities ; while Hpicometis hirtella, L., injured ears of oats. Two hemipterous insects were noticed on lucerne, which had not previously been observed on this plant, Adelphocoris Insect pests of field crops. Oscins frit, L., v. pusilla, Mg., is the | 44 lineolatus, Goeze, and Acocephalus rusticus, F. The former species was noticed on two estates in the northern districts. According to I. V. Vassiliev the insect has two generations in South Russia. It winters in the egg stage, the eggs being laid in the lower part of the stem of the lucerne stubble ; the young bugs issue at the end of the sprin and start sucking the tender parts of the plants; in the first half of July they reach their mature stage, ovipositing again in the autumn. Insecticides are of no avail, and the only remedy recommended by Vassiliev consists in destroying the wintering eggs by slightly burning the lucerne stubble. To effect this, the field of lucerne is covered with a loose and even stratum of straw of a thickness of about 34 inches, which is burned in suitable weather, viz., dry, with a slight wind ; the flame should pass rapidly and evenly over the field. Vassiliev reports favourable results obtained by this method in the Government of Ekaterinoslav, and points out that the slightly burned plants of lucerne gave good new shoots. As to Acocephalus rusticus, F., its life-habits are little known; it appeared usually in company with Adelphocoris lineolatus, so that the particular damage done by it could not be ascertained. Macrosiphum pisi, Kalt., was also found on lucerne, where, however, these lice do not multiply to a dangerous degree, they being chiefly pests of peas. Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L., appeared this year in many parts of the Government, injuring lucerne, maize, sunflower and potatoes; they did not touch Sisymbrium losselu, L., but were found frequently on S. sophia, L., also on Artemisia. Lethrus cephalotes, Laxm., did some damage to linseed crops in the district of Cherson. Epicometis hirtella, L., was found this season in lesser numbers than in previous years and has done damage only in some localities. In the environs of Cherson it attained its greatest numbers at the time of blossoming of the cherry trees, which suffered most from its attacks. The author experimentally tested the remedy recommended by J. F. Schreiner, namely, trapping the beetles on sheets of blue paper covered with an adhesive. He concludes that the method is of no practical — value, as the insects did not show any preference for the blue sheets. It was noticed that the insects did not pay any attention to the blue flowers of Chorispora tenella, D.C., which grew underneath the cherry trees, or to other blue flowers, concentrating only on the blossoms of cherries. The same negative results from adhesive blue sheets were also reported from Turkestan with Ozythyrea cinctella, and from Kishinev. Pie following insects injurious to orchards have been noticed. Hyponomeuta malinellus, Z., Euproctis chrysorrhoea, L., Malacosoma neustria, L., Cydia (Carpocapsa) pomonella, L., Acronycta tridens, Schiff., Coleophora hemerobiella, Sc., Phalera bucephala, L., Hylotoma rosarum, F., Tingis pyri, F., and Aphis ribis, L. For the first time during his sixteen years’ experience the author met with Pyslla pyricola, Forst., and it raises the question whether the pest has only this year invaded the Government, or whether it has existed there previously without being able to develop to a notice- able degree, owing to some unfavourable conditions; as a remedy, dusting with tobacco is suggested. Humolpus vitis, F., was also 45 noticed on vine for the first time in the Government, though known previously in Bessarabia. Phytoptus pyri, Sor., has done substantial damage in some localities, and occurred in considerable numbers. The following forest pests are reported. On oaks, two species of the _ genus Haltica appeared in some localities, the most serious damage being done to single trees and small scattered groups of trees on pasture Jand ; oaks in enclosures, where no grazing took place, suffered less, or not at all. Leaves of elm trees were injured by Galeruca xantho- - melaena, Schr. Claudius viminalis, Fall., were found on poplars in Cherson, there being evidently two generations of the pest in the Government. _ Larvae of Cimbex amerinae, L., or a similar species, were noticed on Salix acutifolia, W., on the sands in the valley of the river Dnieper ; the leaves were sometimes totally devoured, only the veins remaining. Lecanium robinarium, Dougl., is increasing in the Government; in the year under report they were found on Corylus avellana, and on maples in some localities. _ Wesster (F. M.) & Parks (T. H.). The Serpentine Leaf-Miner.— Jl. Agric. Research, Washington, 1, no. 1, Oct. 1913, pp. 59-87, 17 figs., 1 pl. The serpentine leaf-miner is the larva of Agromyza pusilla, Mg., a minute yellow and black fly, which is common in alfalfa fields during the summer ; it has a wide range of food-plants, and is generally dis- tributed over the United States. Outside the United States the species has been found in central and northern EKurope, Italy, Sicily, and Egypt. The larvae injure the foliage of the plant by devouring the paren- chyma of the leaf; leaves of white clover and of young alfalfa often having the entire cellular tissue devoured, leaving only the two mem- branes. Usually only one larva is present in each leaf. The injury is greatest in the south-western States, where the discoloured leaves _ are sometimes present in sufficient numbers to lower materially the quality of the hay. The injured leaves can be found in the fields from May until November, the larvae continuing to feed until the frosts ; in Florida the larvae feed throughout the winter, but usually the insect hibernates in the puparia beneath the surface of the soil at the base of the plants. There are five or six generations in lat. 41°, the number varying with the length of the growing season. The genera- tions overlap to such an extent that all stages can be found in the fields during most of the season. During the period of highest tem- perature in summer, the larvae are usually found infesting plants protected from the direct rays of the sun; in the south-west the insect almost completely disappears from the fields at this time, reappearing in September. The eggs are deposited in the leaf tissue, and are inserted in punc- tures identical with those made by the adult in feeding; the eggs take 4 days to hatch in June, the larval period being then 4 days. In the eastern States pupation occurs entirely in the soil; in the more 46 arid western States it takes place usually in the larval chambers in the leaf; the pupal period in June is 10 days. The average period of the complete life-cycle is 23 days. Besides alfalfa, clover, cowpeas, rape and cotton are subject to attack. A few nearly-related and very similar leaf-miners are known to attack timothy, wheat, oats and grasses; when these crops are affected, the mine usually extends the entire width of the leaf, and may kill the plant if it is very young. Numerous parasitic insects attack and consume the larvae and pupae within their mines; these are highly efficient and keep the © insect under control. The following is a list of these parasites :— Diaulinus begin, Ashm., D. webstert, Cwfd., Chrysocharis aimsher, Cwfd., C. parksi, Cwid., Derostenus arizonensis, Cwid., D. drastatae, How., D. punctiventris, Cwid., D. pictipes, Cwid., D. varipes, Cwid,. Diaulinopsis callichroma, Cwid., Cirrospilus flavoviridis, Cwid., Zagram- — mosoma multilineata, Ashm., Closterocerus utahensis, Cwid., Pleurotropis — rugosithorax, Cwid., Hucotlahunteri, Cwid., Sympiesis sp., Pteromalussp., Cirrospilus sp., Diaulinopsis sp., and a species of ENTEDONINAE. Braconid parasites include Opius agromyzae, Vier., O. aridus, Gahan, O. brunnevpes, Gahan, and O. suturalis, Gahan. The following are predaceous upon the serpentine leaf-miner: Triphleps sp., and Ery- thraeus sp. Most of these parasites are functional in the control of — more than one species of leaf-miner, and are very widely distributed. Frequent cutting of alfalfa kills the larvae in the leaves, and does much to protect this crop ; this method should be followed where the ~ injury becomes serious. Deep autumn or winter ploughing is advo- cated for annual forage crops and cereals, in order to bury deeply the — hibernating puparia located near the surface of the ground. —— ee Dr Cuarmoy (D. d’E.). Summary of investigations on Insect Pests — during the three months, May-July, 1913.—Mauritius Dept. of Agric., Dw. Entom., 27th July 1913, 2 pp. The sugar-cane leaf aphis (Aphis sacchari). By the middle of June — fields severely infested by these plant-lice were noticed on two plantations. As predaceous insects, such as SYRPHIDAE and CoccInN- - ELLIDAE were found at work, no remedy was suggested. A fortnight — later the pest was found to have been completely checked by a fungus ~ disease, and the plants were rapidly recovering. | In June the manager of the Bassin Estate found White Tannas © diseased. These were uprooted, and the damage was found to be due ~ to “ moutoucs ” (Oryctes and Lachnosterna larvae). The larvae were — dug out, and with them a certain number of Scolia rufa, which were — proved to be parasites of the Oryctes larvae. . Chionaspis tegalensis. Samples of sugar-cane received from Indus- — try Estate, Long Mountain, were found heavily infected with this scale-insect, and about five acres of another plantation were entirely — covered with this pest. Karly cropping and burning of the canes before cutting have been suggested as a means of getting rid of the insect. — The sugar-cane white louse (Pseudococcus calceolariae var. sacchari). — Young virgin canes were found suffering from this scale-insect, which — was attacking the roots, this being due to infested cuttings not having — 47 been disinfected. A fungus disease was keeping down the Coccid, the aggregated insects being reduced toa sort of pulp. For disinfecting the cuttings kerosine mixture has been suggested. For this mixture, to 25 grams of soap disolved in 500 c.c. boiling water, add 2 litres petroleum, gradually stirring the while; add to 600 c.c. of this emul- sion, 400 c.c. of Phenyl, or 300 c.c. of Creolin. This mixture at a strength of 1 per cent. in water damages green leaves, and should only be employed for disinfecting the soil or against scale insects _ attacking the bark. HaArRDENBERG (C. B.). Peach-tree Aphides.—Agric. Jl. Union S. Africa, Pretoria, vi, no. 2, Aug. 1913, pp.. 224-235. During the winter and early spring of 1912, the author made some observations and experiments regarding the life-history and control of the black and green peach aphids [ Aphis persicae, Boyer, and Rhopa- | losiphum dianthi, Schr.] in the Pretoria and Johannesburg districts, where the two insects are generally very prevalent, and may cause a complete failure of the peach crop in some localities. The observa- tions can be divided into such as relate to (a) life-history, including hibernation and dispersal ; (b) parasitism ; and (c) the use of tobacco extract as a means of control. The following summary is given of the results of the experiments :— (1) In sheltered situations the black peach aphis probably hiber- nates on the trees, and may breed through the winter; (2) though primarily infesting the young shoots and iruit-buds, the black aphis will also attack the leaves; (3) dispersal takes place most probably through the agency of winged individuals, which are produced as soon as a favourable mean temperature is reached ; the distribution is too scattered to admit of its being effected by ants carrying the young aphides to other situations on the tree; (4) the presence of aphis at the base of the flower-bud causes it to swell and open prematurely, or at least in advance of others which are not attacked by aphides ; (5) the green peach aphis breeds in the winter on cabbage, parsnips, and probably other cruciferous plants ; (6) in the absence of definite data regarding the season history of the black aphis parasite, we may presume that the hibernating colonies keep this parasite breeding through the winter season; (7) the black peach aphis is attacked by one hymenopterous internal parasite and preyed upon by two species of Syrphid flies and three species of lady-birds; (8) the total length of the life-cycle of the Syrphid, Xanthogramma scutellaris, is about three weeks ; egg stage, three to four days, larval stage about twelve days, and pupal stage five days ; (9) the Syrphid pairs in late afternoon ; eggs are deposited at intervals of about one minute; (10) tobacco extract in a solution containing about 0°082 per cent nicotin is the most effective strength ; no advantage is gained by using a stronger solution ; this kills the aphis within 24 hours, being equivalent to a dilution of “Eagle Brand”? extract of 1:100, and of “ Lion Brand” extract 1:80; (11) the tobacco wash is more effective in sunshine than in dull cloudy weather ; (12) green peach aphis can be effectively kept under control by three thorough sprayings about five days apart, the first being applied as soon as the first leaves open out; the first appearance of the aphis should be watched for closely ; (13) for effec- tive spraying an underspray attachment is essential ; the spray should 48 be applied along the branch from below (towards the tip of the branch | or twig), as the force of the spray will momentarily open the curled-up leaves ; (14) the use of soap at the rate of 1 lb. in 25 gallons of spray © is advisable ; (15) the cost of the application should not exceed 1s. 6d. — per tree for the three sprayings together ; (16) by means of these three _ sprayings a good crop of peaches can be secured, even in heavily ~ infested orchards ; (17) clean cultivation between the trees is advised ; _~ cabbages, parsnips or cruciferous vegetables should not be grown | during the winter in or near the part of the garden where peach trees — are standing, as they furnish breeding places for the green peach aphis. In a note by Mr. Lounsbury it is stated that the above report on spraying tests concerns the green peach aphis. The black species is — commonly found during winter ; and when it has to be combated, it is is advisable to take advantage of the nakedness of the twigs, by making © a thorough application of the spraying preparation shortly before — the buds open. Should three sprayings, as recommended, not suffice for the control of the green species, as may be the case in seasons — which particularly favour the pest, applications at intervals of about five days should be continued. Van Dine (D. L.). Report of the Entomologist.—Hapt. Sta. of the i Sugar Producers’ Assn. of Porto Rico, Rio Piedras, P.R., Bull. — no. 5, Aug. 1913, pp. 25-46. In this report the author states that the May-beetles and their white stubs form the first line of his work, since the control of these insects is the most acute problem before the planter. The following is a list of the insects affecting sugar-cane in Porto Rico, together with their ~ natural enemies, and an indication of the injury they cause :— (1) The moth stalk-borer (Diatraea saccharalis, ¥'.) tunnels into the cane stalk; kills young cane; affects the germination of seed cane. Its enemies are an egg-parasite, T'richogramma minutum, Riley; a Tachinid fly, Tachinophyto (Hypostena) sp.; and a fungus, Cordiceps barberi, Giard; (2) May-beetles and white grubs (Lachnosterna spp.) © The adults feed upon the leaves, and the larvae upon the roots and the | root-stalks externally; their enemies are: a wasp, Elis sexcinta, F. ; the Tachinid flies, Cryptomergema aurifacies and Hutrixoides jones; | an Elaterid beetle, Pyrophorus luminosus, Ill. ; a fungus, Metarrhizvum | anisopliae, Metsch. ; “ blackbirds ” (Crotophaga ani and Holoquiscalus | brachypterus); (3) the weevil root-borer (Diaprepes spengleri, L.), whose | larvae feed within the root-stalk and prune the roots to some extent ; the blackbirds, noted under Lachnosterna, feed upon its larvae at — ploughing time; (4) Rhinoceros beetles (undetermined Dynastids). — Their larvae feed upon the roots, and within the root-stalk; the fungus, Metarrhizium anisopliae, and the blackbirds, both noted under Lachnosterna, are natural enemies ; (5) The Mealy-bug (Pseudococcus | sacchari, Ckll.), feeds on the underground portions of young cane, at the base of the leaves, and beneath leaf-sheaths of older cane; the introduced ladybird beetle, Cryptolaemus montrouziert, Muls., and the | parasitic fungi, Aspergillus sp. and Isarva sp., are natural enemies; | (6) the mole-cricket (Scapteriscus didactylus, Latr.), eats into seed cane — and the young shoots beneath the surface of the ground; natural | enemies are the blackbirds and lizards; (7) the southern grass-worm | 49 (Laphygma frugiperda, 8. and A.), the larvae of which eat leaves of young cane. A Braconid, Chelonus insularis, Cress. (?); the Tachi- nid flies, Frontina archippivora, Will., Gonia crassicornis, F., and Archy- tas piliventris, Wulp ; a Carabid beetle, Calosoma alternans, F.; the fungi, Botrytes sp. and Empusa sp., and the blackbirds are natural ‘enemies; (8) the grass-looper (Remigia repanda, F.), the larva of which eats leaves of young cane, the natural enemies being Tachinid flies and a Carabid beetle, Calosoma alternans, F.; (9) the West Indian | sugar-cane leaf-hopper (Delphax saccharivora) feeds on leaves and | stalks of young cane; its natural enemies are: a Mymarid, a Dryinid and a Stylops ; (10) the sugar-cane Aphid (Sipha graminis, Kt.) feeds on the leaves; its enemies are: a Syrphid fly, Ocyptamus sp. ; lady- bird beetles, Cycloneda sanguinea, L., Megilla innotata, Muls., Scymnus loewri, Muls., S. rosercollis, Muls. ; a lace-wing fly ; a fungus, Acrostal- agmus sp.; (11) the hard-back or black night-beetle (Ligyrus tumu- losus, Burm.), the larva of which is found at the roots, and is attacked by a wasp, Campsomeris dorsata, F.; (12) the weevil stalk-borer (Metamasius hemipterus, L.), follows disease or other injury, infesting both stalks of growing cane and seed cane; no enemies have been observed ; (13) the shot-hole stalk-borer (Xyleborus sp.) follows dis- ease, usually the rind disease (Melanconium sacchart), in the stalks and seed cane; no enemies have been observed; (14) the grass-worm (Cirphis latiuscula, H. 8.), eats young leaves; a Braconid (undeter- _ mined) and the blackbirds are natural enemies ; (15) a Skipper (Prenes nero, F'.), whose larva eats young leaves ; it is parasitised by a Braconid ; (16) the scale-insect, Targionia sacchari, Ckll., parasitised by a Chal- cidid; (17) the green Diabrotica (Dviabrotica graminea, Baly), the adults of which feed on the leaves to a slight extent; the habits of the larva are not known; no enemies have been observed; (18) a termite (Hutermes morio, Lath.), attacks the seed and does not appear to have any enemy; (19) an undetermined Tineid, attacks the base of young shoots and eyes; no enemy has been observed ; (20) mites have been observed to feed upon the stalks beneath the leaf-sheath _ and upon the leaves; no natural enemies observed. An extensive bibliography of 41 works, containing papers on Porto Rico sugar-cane insects follows. From this list the author gives a general summary, referring to the injurious species according to the part of the plant they affect. It was in 1910 that the larvae of the so-called Rhinoceros beetles were discovered, and in 1911 about 15 acres of cane were found in- fested to a serious extent by them. Thus far the insect has been observed breeding at the roots of cane only on the south coast of the island ; it is also found in old wood in the forest. The grubs are eaten by the blackbirds at ploughing time, and the local form of the para- sitic fungus, Metarrhizium anisopliae, also attacks them. The plan- tation practice of planting cane by opening up new furrows between the old rows without first ploughing out the old stubble, greatly favours the development of the grub of the Rhinoceros beetle, and of the white grub of the May-beetle. The old stubble should be thrown out, as then the blackbirds are able to feed upon the grubs, and the latter may also be picked up and destroyed. It seems probable that this Rhinoceros beetle is a species recorded under the name of Strategus titanus from the islands of St. Croix and Jamaica, as a pest of the (Cl.) D 50 sugar-cane, and which is also recorded from Porto Rico by Stahl. The weevil root-borer (Diaprepes spengleri, L.), which in the larval stage attacks the roots of sugar-cane, must now be added to the list of borers affecting the plant in Porto Rico. The adult weevil has already been recorded as an enemy of citrus trees, and as common in © coffee plantations, and was stated to have other hosts, as the guava, © avocado, mango and rose. The author has observed the adult weevil | feeding on the leaves of the sugar cane and on those of the “ jobo,” — Spondias lutea. The blackbirds feed upon the weevil root-borer at — ploughing time. Generally, the measures of control would be collect- ing the grubs and adults. . ScHwartz. Nikotin als Insektengift. [Nicotin as an Insect Poison. }— Mitt. k. biol. Anst. fiir Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Berlin, viii, 14th Sept. 1913, pp. 36-37. Laboratory experiments were made to find the effect of nicotin and its salts upon insects. Besides pure nicotin the following salts of it were used :—lactate, acetate, trichloracetate and nitrate. All these substances, in 0:015% solution, acted as a skin poison upon Aphids © (Rhopalosiphum ribis). Solutions containing 0:025% of the substance killed 93-989 of the Aphids. As an internal poison, 0:05°{ solutions were effective for caterpillars of Vanessa polychloros, V.10, and Orgyia antiqua ; 0:2°% solutions for caterpillars of Lymantria dispar and Stilpnotia salicis; and 1% solutions for Malacosoma neustria. Poi- soned food affected only the caterpillars of Vanessa io and polychloros. In the cases where the caterpillars of these species ate leaves sprayed with nicotin compounds, they pupated imperfectly, and in no cases were butterflies produced from them. The spray solution used was 005% in strength. The difference in action of the several compounds of nicotin used was not worked out. : The following Series of Abstracts is taken from «Cagb, Oropopb u Baxua*» [Orchard, Market Garden & Bachza.|—The Journal of the Astrachan Society of Frut-Growers, Market-Gardeners & Agriculturists, Astrachan. Sacnarov (N.). Opatrum sabulosum, L., KaKb BpequTenb Gax4eBbixt pacTeHi Bb AcTpaxaHckonw Ff. M MOACONHyXOBb Bb CapaToscKoni. [Opatrum sabulosum, L., as a pest of cucurbitaceous plants in the Govt. of Astrachan and of sunflower seeds in the Govt. of Saratov.|—Orchard, Market-Garden & Bachza, 1913, Reprint, 2 pp. - The larvae of this Tenebrionid beetle in their life-history, and in the character of the damage done by them, resemble the larvae of Agriotes lineatus, L. The author points out, therefore, that not all the injury *(The Tartar word Bbax4a (Bachza) is used in South and South Eastern Russia of fields set apart for the cultivation of various species of melon, chiefly water melons, the yield varying from 110 to 300 melons per acre. These fields are only used for this purpose for one year, after which they are given up to ordinary crops. In some parts of the chornoiziom area cucumbers and other vegetables are grown on these fields.—Ed.] _ attributed to the latter pests is really done by them. He obtained this year, some larvae from the Zemstvo of Saratov, which have damaged sunflowers, and from them he reared some O. sabulosum, the remaining larvae producing A. lineatus, and another unidentified beetle. In the same way he obtained an imago of O. sabulosuwm from some larvae which were damaging lemons in the Government of Astrachan. These insects live during the whole summer, often hiding under- neath stones or dry cattle-dung; they are found in large numbers in ' both the above Governments, and in the opinion of the author, about 51 90 per cent. of the damage to ‘“‘bachza”’ plants in Astrachan, usually attributed to the larvae of A. lineatus, is really done by the former _ pest when the larvae of Zuoa segetum are absent. _ The author describes the larva, pupa and imago of the Opatrum. _ As to remedies, further investigations will, he says, be necessary. } \ | Vostrikov (P.). Hopotgpi [Bark Beetles. |—Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza, Feb. 1913, pp. 40-41. The habits of Eccoptogaster rugulosus, Ratz., and E. mali, Bechst., _ are very similar, and both injure mostly cherry trees and plum trees, _ but also apple, pear, apricot, etc. There are two generations; the _ first occurring from the first half of May till the end of July, the second | from July till the end of summer. The control of the insects is not an easy matter, the part played by parasites being minimal, and insecticides being of little avail. As preventive remedies, the author _ recommends smearing over the trunks of trees early in spring, before _ the opening of the buds, with 3 per cent. solution of iron-sulphate, or _ with a mixture of milk of lime with iron sulphate (1 lb. of the latter in _ about 2°7 gallons of water). As to destructive remedies, the cutting in spring of those branches which have no leaves, the cutting out of _ the larvae from the trunks in May and June, smearing over the wounds with lime and clay, or with garden tar, are recommended. It is also _ useful to plug the openings on the bark and any wounds with a mix- _ ture of one part of carbolineum with two parts of lime. Sorbus and Crataegus ought to be excluded from gardens or used as bait trees, } and burned afterwards. In the same way damaged trees ought also to be burned, as well as injured branches, etc. _Rasrecasey (P.). Hawunyywi cnocoOb yHuytowenia mMe_BbaKM Bb cajaxb M oropogaxb. [The best method of destroying Gryllo- talpa in orchards and in market-gardens.|—Orchard, Market- Garden and Bachza, Feb. 1913, pp. 41-42. The author describes, generally, the damage done by these pests to orchards and market gardens, which in south-eastern Russia is enor- mous. He recommends a new remedy, which he considers superior to all those usually recommended, such as (1) bait-holes ; (2) poison- ing by maize ; (3) destruction of the nests with eggs; (4) spraying of the soil with carbon bisulphide; (5) moistening of the beds with a mixture of water and carbon bisulphide; (6) addition of turpentine to the water used for watering the beds, etc. His remedy consists in pouring naphtha into the burrows of the insects. For this purpose (C1.) D 52 a jug containing water and naphtha, the latter keeping on the surface of the water, is used; having found a burrow, the naphtha is first poured in, either through a special tube attached to the lip of the jug, or by simply pouring it over the edge ; then water is poured in so as to drive the naphtha into the hole; one half to 1 pint of water over some naphtha proves sufficient to drive out the insect, and it perishes soon afterwards. He reports that in this way a boy (whose daily wages were 25 copecks—about 6d.), has destroyed 300 insects in a day. The author has also invented a special jug, with two tubes, and two separate compartments for water and for naphtha. SacHarov (N.). Fycennya Gabounn Lvergestis extimalis, Sc., KaKb BPeAUTeib HEKOTOPbIXS OFOPOAHbIXd HyNbTypb. [The caterpillar of Evergestis extimalis, Sc., as a pest of some market-garden crops. |—Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza, March 1913, pp. 160-161, 3 figs. ‘It has not been previously reported that the caterpillars of Hvergestis extumalis, Sc., injure cruciferous plants, but during last summer they have been noticed damaging sprouts of radish and turnip in one experi- mental nursery in the Government. The author describes and figures the imago and the caterpillar, and figures also a damaged pericarp. The eggs are deposited on the pericarps and the caterpillars feed on the seeds. Pupation takes place on the same plants on which the caterpillars have fed, between the leaves or the branches of the stalks. It is assumed that there are two generations, the second one breeding on wild Cruciferae. Paris green may serve as an insecticide, as the insects feed also on the outer parts of the fruits. SacHarov (N.). Oecanthus pellucens Scop., KaKkb BPeMCHHbIN COHM- Telb BHHOrpagHou no3sbl. [Oecanthus pellucens, Scop., as a tempo- rary parasite of vine-branches.} Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza, April 1913, pp. 193-196. -The tree cricket, Oecanthus pellucens, oviposits inside the summer — branches of the vine, laying two, and sometimes three eggs in one hole ; the larvae emerge from the egg in the following spring, the imago appearing in July. The author is of opinion that this insect is rather useful than injurious, as from the moment of its hatching out till late in the autumn, it destroys plant-lice wherever it can find them. As to the oviposition on vine, the insect only casually visits this plant, and the damaged branches do not suffer from the piercing, as the open- ings grow over again later. As it oviposits also on those parts of the summer branches which are cut off and burned before the winter, numbers are destroyed. In Astrachan the insect survives by depo- — siting its eggs over the winter on Rubus caesius, L. SacHarov (N.). OTb SHToMoNorM4ecKow cTaHyin AcTpaxaHckaro Odwectsa CajoBogctea, OropopHuyectBa u MnogoBogctBa. [Notes from the Entomological Station of the Astrachan Society of — Horticulture and Agriculture.|—Orchard, Market-Garden and — Bachza, April 1913, pp. 196-200. The author calls attention to the appearance of a Chrysomelid — -" ! 53 beetle, the larvae of which mine the leaves of garden strawberries. _ On some leaves as many as 270 eggs were found, and the larvae threat- ened to destroy the whole crop of strawberries. He suggests spraying the plants with Paris green, repeating the spraying later when the ovaries are well formed. The insecticide must be used in a propor- tion of 1 oz. of green and 2 oz. of lime dissolved in 7 gallons of water. In some parts of the Government larvae of a Galerucid beetle, Leptosonyx silphoides, appeared, moving in large numbers over the _ steppes, after the manner of Phlyctaenodes sticticalis ; the author is, _ however, of opinion that this insect feeds only on wormwood, not _ touching cultivated plants. ' Recipes are given for one insecticide and two fungicides. The insecticide is recommended against pests of the vine, and consists of _ a solution of 24 lb. sulphate of iron in 233 ga!s. water, with which the _ young buds are to be sprayed in early spring. Sacuarov (N.). Asiatckan capaHya Bb HM30BbAXb Boru un Oopboa Cb Hew. [Asiatic locusts in the lower parts of the Volga, and the fight against them.]|—Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza, July and Sept. 1913, pp. 436-440 & 559-563, 11 figs. _ The southern parts of the Government of Astrachan, along the banks of the Volga and of the Caspian Sea are most suitable places for the breeding of Asiatic locusts (Locusta migratoria and L. danica) ; the coasts are covered with reeds, there being also various meadow plants, and the soil is suitable for the oviposition of these insects. The people in these parts are mostly fishermen, and, therefore, the _ damage done by the pests is usually disregarded, the locusts appear- ing every year without exception. Oviposition takes place at the end of August and during September on friable, sandy or loamy soil, and the hatching begins in May. The spring floods of the Volga destroy large numbers of eggs, and the author is of opinion that if this were not the case, the locusts would become so numerous .as to threaten even many central Governments of Russia. The following parasites of locusts are mentioned :—Sarcophaga lineata, Fall., which mostly parasitises the larvae, and another fly of the genus Anthomyia, which attacks the winged insects. Besides these _ flies, the following insects prey on the eggs of the locusts :—Epicauta _ erythrocephala v. latelineolata, Mylabris calida, and the larvae of flies of the genus Systoechus; the latter being found by the author in 20-25 per cent. of the egg-clusters. The difficulties in combating the insects are considerable, owing to the situation of the breeding places among flooded reeds, and the lack of workmen on the spot, etc. The method adopted was spraying with Paris green (1 lb. of green, 4 Ib. of milk of lime, and 2 lb. of a special glue, in about 14 gallons of water); for the later larval stages the insecticide was made even stronger. RastecaJev (P.). Mow enyyaitbia Hadniopenia 3a Bpequon pbatenb- HOCTbIO apOy3Haro 4YepBA. [My casual observations on the inju- rious activities of the Melon-Worm.]|—Orchard, Market Garden and Bachza, Sept. 1913, pp. 565-568. The name of “ melon-worm” is applied to the larvae of Euzxoa segetum, and the damage to melons was observed only in the first half 54 of June, when many of the young sprouts were destroyed. Hand- picking at night was adopted, and the remaining plants were saved, 500 caterpillars having been collected on a space of 2 acres. The author also suggests spraying with Paris green (about 14 oz. of green in about 2°7 gallons of water). Rysuxov (N.). MbilbakoBucTan M3BecTb M NapwextcKan 3eneHb, Kak MHceKTHCHpAbI. [Calcium arsenate and Paris green as insecticides. | —Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza, Oct. 1913, pp. 643-644. The author reports the results of spraying with the above-mentioned insecticides in various orchards. In one case calcic arsenate was used, prepared as follows :—1 lb. of arsenic with 14-2 lb. of soda, being boiled in about 2°7 gallons of water till the arsenic was quite dissolved, which took about an hour; after this some 5 lb. of lime was added and boiled for another half an hour; this solution was made up to 270 gallons with water. Although there were rains during the spraying, and this was not repeated, the results obtained were excel- lent ; and, whereas, during the previous year, C. pomonella destroyed. more than three-quarters of the harvest in this particular orchard, no specimens of the pest were noticed this year. In another orchard the spraying was done with Paris green dissolved in sal-ammoniac, the amount of the latter being just sufficient to dissolve the green, and 1 oz. of this mixture was dissolved in 19 gallons of water; while in a third orchard the insecticide used was Paris green with lime (about 4 oz. in 2°7 gallons of water). The results obtained were favourable with regard to Hyponomeuta malinellus, the larvae of which perished after 3-4 days, keeping all the time on the ends of the bran- ches ; while the activity of C. pomonella was practically unaffected. Lone (H. C.). The Large Larch Sawfly.—Gardeners’ Chronicle, London, liv, no. 1394, 13th Sept. 1913, pp. 184-185, 1 pl. The Large Larch Sawfly, Nematus erichsoni, has caused much damage in Britain since 1904 ; up to that time it had not proved harm- ful, but in 1904 it was observed in injurious numbers in Cumberland, and in 1905 it was reported as having wrought great havoc, and again in 1906. Since that time larch woods have suffered much from this insect, which has now been scheduled as notifiable to the proper authorities. In 1908, in Keswick, 200 acres were attacked, and hundreds of the trees had died ; on Skiddaw alone 30,000 trees had to be felled in 1912 on account of the pest. This sawfly has been recorded. in Germany, Switzerland, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, the United States, and Canada. The damage is done by the larvae, which feed voraciously on the foliage of the larch; trees of any age may be attacked. Repeated defoliation may kill the tree. When full-fed the larvae enter the moss or soil beneath the trees and spin strong brownish cocoons, in which they pass the winter, pupating in the spring. The flies emerge from May to July, during which time eggs are laid. Hewitt found that development was parthenogenetic. The sawfly is subject to attack by a number of parasites, chiefly the Ichneumon, Mesoleius aulicus, which is responsible for the death of 55 _ large numbers of the insect, to the extent sometimes of 70 per cent. A fungus (Cordiceps) also infests the cocoons. Since tall trees are attacked, remedial measures against the infesta- tion are rendered more difficult. Means of combat include crushing the larvae when near enough to the ground; poisoning by spraying _ with lead arsenate or Paris green ; and destroying the cocoons in the ... under the trees, during the winter. Lone (H. C.). The Cherry Fruit Fly. Gardeners’ Chronicle, London, ‘ liv, 18th Oct. 1913, p. 271, 1 pl. The Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis cerasi, L.) has been known on the - Continent for a long time ; but English cherries do not appear to have ever been attacked. Affected cherries are, however, constantly _ imported into England, and in consequence it is not impossible that the pest may at any time establish itself in this country. Theobald says that should it become noticeable in any plantation or garden, it would be wise to forego the crop by having the fruit destroyed to prevent damage another year, and the possible spread to other plan- tations. The Cherry Fly may be combated by the collection and destruction of affected cherries; giving poultry the opportunity of picking up fallen cherries and maggots, as well as pupae in the soil; combined with surface cultivation in autumn and winter, to expose the pupae to birds and the rigours of the weather. Plant Bugs on Hevea brasiliensis.—Jl. Board Agric. of Br. Guiana, | Demerara, vii, no. 2, Oct. 1913, p. 74. An increase of the Pentatomid Bug, Empicoris variolosus, is reported. These are difficult to detect, as during the day they hide in depressions of the bark, old tapping wounds, etc. It is supposed that they cause _ exudation of the latex from young green shoots by sucking them. The matter is under investigation. ‘THEOBALD (Ff. V.). The British Species of the Genus Macrosiphum, Passerini. Pt. H.—J/. Econ. Biol., London, viii, no. 3, 29th Sept. 1913, pp. 113-154, 29 figs. In the first part of this paper (Jl. Econ. Biol., viii, No. 2) [see this Review, Ser. A., i, p. 332], a list of fifty-five British species of the genus Macrosiphum was given, and of these twenty-five were described. The present part deals with the remaining species, and five more are added to the list, bringing the number up to sixty. Of these, twelve species are new. Fett (K. P.). Twenty-eighth Report of the State Entomologist, 1912.— Bull. N.Y. State Mus., Albany, N.Y., no. 165, 15th July, 1913, 264 pp., 79 figs., 14 pls. The authorship of the above paper, of which an abstract was given on p. 527, Vol. i., Series A., was attributed in error to the Director of the Museum instead of to Dr. E. P. Felt. The reference should read as above. NOTICES OF ENTOMOLOGICAL APPOINTMENTS, &c. Mr. Nowett, the Assistant Superintendent of the Local Depart- ment of Agriculture, Barbados, who was principally engaged upon Mycological and Entomological work, has resigned, and has now been appointed as Mycologist to the Imperial Department of Agriculture, Barbados. Mr. J. Sypney Dasu, B.Sc., has been appointed in his place, and is expected to take up his duties in February. Mr. C. F. C. Berson, Indian Forest Service, has been appointed Forest Zoologist to the Government of India on the resignation of Dr. A., D. Tmme. f B- , _ NOTICES. | The Editor will be glad to receive prompt information of the | appearance of new pests, or of known pests in districts which have _ hitherto been free from them, and will welcome any suggestion, the | adoption of which would increase the usefulness of the Review. _ Secretaries of Societies and Editors of Journals willing to exchange | their publications with those of the Bureau, are requested to com- "municate with the Assistant Editor, 27, Elvaston Place, Queen’s | Gate, London, S.W. _ _ The subscription to the Review is 12s. per annum, post free; or the two series may be taken separately, Series A (Agricultural) _ being 8s., and Series B (Medical and Veterinary), 5s. per annum. "All orders and subscriptions should be sent to Messrs. DULAU CONTENTS. =? PAGE. - African Cotton Pests... sss nee nee wes ee + Pests of the Coconut Palm in the South Sea Islands ... 2 - Insecticides for common Insect Pests in U.S.A. iM “n ee ' Remedies for San José, Oyster-Shell and Scurfy Scales in U.S.A. ... 3 _ Codling Moth in the Sacramento Valley in California... ... 3 » The Woolly Aphis in California... © 64. 0 se oes 4 ~ Cabbage Pests in Montana mee Sie EN Sop 4 4 Insect Pests of Cereals in N.E. Russia... «4. ons 5 | Orchard Pests in Ontario wee vee os 5 ~ The use of Oils on Dormant Trees... —... she 6 _ Factors influencing Sex in Ichneumons... Pres a oeMen Wry 6 ~ Control of two Elm-tree Pests in New York State ... «. 6 Analyses of Insecticides for users in California ay 7 _ The amended Insecticide Law im California .., 7 Diseases and Pests of Cultivated Plants in Samoa... 7 ' Tnjurious Insects in Ireland in 1912... a ats 8 A Braconid Parasite of Sinorylon sexdentatum in France ; - Gipsy Moth in the Lebediansk Forest, Russia... “3 ai pe A Pins of Melolontha in the Kulikov Forest, Russia ert. cee Melolontha hippocastant, a Forest Pestin Russia... 2... 0 I Forest Pests in Tambov, Russia a oe ‘ae is Pea | Proposed Quarantine against the Avocado Weevil in U.S.A. Notes on the Biology of Phyllozera in Europe... ne - Ni Notes on the Habits of Chermes in France... as vee Bee-keeping in Tennessee Pee fs aas ct sic .» 14 The Fruit-Tree Leaf-Roller in Colorado +n oN a .. 14 Parasites of Sugar-Cane Pests in British Guiana oie “a Bala Enemies of the Raspberry in France ... — ... s/ ae ‘iene The use of Wine Traps for the Vine Moth in France... Pe ret) The specialised Habits of Parasitic Insects... Sap ‘ie .. 16 Notes on a Plague of Locusts in N. Queensland tea ot eae se bee Food-Plants of the Black Beetroot Aphis in France ... im cath ee The Bean Fly (Agromyza phaseoli) in Queensland ... «.. « 18 Pumpkin Beetles (Aulacophora) in Queensland Sea iastdeg tt eee ae Dichocrocis punctiferalis injuring Papaws in Queensland __.... «. 20 Annual Report of the Beekeepers’ Association of Ontario ... a. 20 A new Parasite of Pseudococcus saccharifolia in Hawaii OER A: (C1.) < , : a’ OOS ESSE LO LEAT SE AE EE CT CONTENTS—continued. = as. | Recent Insecticide investigation in British Columbia... The Cost of Pest Control in British Columbia .:. a rey Methods of taking Insect Records in the field ... ‘as The importance of Economie Entomology as a subject of education ; Importance of Systematic Entomology ... ait ots Saat Some. Problems m Aphis Control in British Columbia... <.. The Control*of Peach Borers in British Columbia... ... ae Cutworms and their Control in British Columbia ... Keonomic Ornithology in British Columbia ... os 6 ce _ Economic Importance of Bark Beetles in Canada .., — ... vs " . The use of Nicotin against the Vine Moth in Lyixemburg.., ~~... Hadena oleracea destructive to Tomatoes in England aie) eae The Control of the Rhinoceros Beetle in Samoa a tte eS Leaf-cutting Antsin Brazil =... 1... iS. ep weeni 58 A Lepidopterous Chestnut Borer in Pennsylvania... oe aor The Rhinoceros Beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) in Samoa Re pres Sugar-Cane Pests in Demerara, Trinidad and Barbados... — ss us pruinosus controlling Aphids in Oregon... sts Powdered Arsenate of Lead as an Insecticide ... wee ae A new Parasite of the Red Spider of Cotton in U.S.A. “a Insect Pests in the Government of Voronezh in 1912... sila + * Amendment to “‘ The Destructive Insect and Pest Act of Canada sil Galerucella tenella, a Pest of Strawberries in Astrachan eee ite es _ Crop Pests in Russia — .., ae ee PS The Campaign against Locusts in Bokhara ... “ogg Bae On the Biology of Stauronotus maroccanus in Turkestan The cheapest and most effective Insecticide to destroy Locusts ins Russia... cn ae Maat tmeee See ahs vk: ete Wagtails as Destroyers of Lucerne Pests in Turkestan- = =... Insects injurious to Grain in Russia... 4. ss , Seg Gryllotalpa vulgaris in Astrachan sa Mea eee eh tS Ripe * Insect Pests in Bessarabia during 1912... ... ... eS Save ee, Insect Pests in Cherson ... ‘ Pa Gate Spa eee oe The Serpentine Leaf Miner in US.A. ... Insect Pests from May to July, 1913, in Mauritius ts Hike Lae Peach Tree Aphides in South Africa... ; Report of the Entomologist, Porto Rico Sugar-Producers’ Association ; Nicotin as an Insect Poison — Opatrum sabulosum as a Pest in Astrachan om Gu ae ened Fruit Bark Beetles in Astrachan . ... ,... ee Sapeh eeaes A method for destroying Gryllotalpa cde soe wie wea, 2 lites ms : “et _ Kvergestis extimalis attacking Turnips in Russia Mey Cie ee Occanthus pellucens as a temporary Parasite of Vine branches eB te Russia Su
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FEBRUARY, 1914.
: |
A: AGRICULTURAL.
BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.
Aa ae }
LONDON:
., Ltd. 37, SOHO SQUARE, W.
a
A Rights Reserved.
IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.
Honorary Committee of Management.
THE EARL OF CROMER, G.C.B., 0.M., G.C.M.G., Chairman.
Lieutenant-Colonel A. W. Atcocx, C.1.E., F.R.8., London School of
Tropical Medicine.
Mr. KE. E. Austen, Entomological Department, British Museum |
(Natural History).
Dr. A. G. BaasHaweE, Director, Tropical Diseases Bureau.
Sir J. Ross BRADFORD, K.C.M. G., F.R.S., Secretary, Royal Society.
Surgeon-General Sir Davip BRuoE, C.B. F. R.S., A.M.S, ?
Dr. 8. F. Harmer, F.R.8., Keeper of Zoology, British Museum
(Natural History).
Professor H. Maxwett Lerroy, Imperial College of Science and E i
Technology.
The Hon, Sir Jonn McCatt, M.D., Agent-General for Tasmanian
Dr. R. Stewart MacDovaatt, Lecturer on Agricultural Envomnlygy
Edinburgh University. oe
Sir Jonn MoFapyean, Principal, Riyal Veterinary College, Camden
Town.
Sir Parrick Manson, G.C.M.G., F.R.S., Late Medical Adviser to the
Colonial Office.
Sir Danzer Morris, K.C.M.G., Late Adviser to the Colonial Office
in Tropical Agriculture.
Professor R. Newsteap, F.R.S., Dutton Memorial Professor of % 4
Medical Entomology, Liverpool University.
Professor G. F. H. Nurraty, F.R.S., Quick Professor of Protosolaage ae
Cambridge.
Professor E. B. Poutton, F.R.S., Hope Professor of Zoology, Oxford. el
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Davin PRAIN, C.LE,, C.M.G., F.R.8., Director, =
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. . ae
Mr. H. J. Reap, C.M.G., Colonial Office.
The Honourable.N. C. Rorascuip,
Mr. Hues Scort, Curator in Zoology, Museum of Zoology, Cambridge.
Dr. A. E. Surpiey, F.R.S., Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge.
Sir Stewart Srockman, Chief Veterinary Officer, Board “of Agri- | E
culture,
Mr. F. V. Taropatp, Vice-Principal, South Eastern Apnea ox ;
College, Wye. -
Mr. J. A. TrLey, Foreign Office.
Mr. C. WARBURTON, Zoologist to the Royal Agricultural Sicictie of ; a
England.
The Chief Entomologist in each of the Self-gov erning Dominions a
is an ex officio member of the Committee. —
General Secretary.
Mr. A C. C. Parkinson (Colonial Office).
Director and Bditor.
Mr. Guy A. K. MarsHat.
Assistant Editor.
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Head Office—British Museum Aiiéoral History), Cromvell Rood, :
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Publication Office —27, Elvaston Place, London, 8.W.
57
Bopxkin (G. E.). A New Insect Pest of Coconut Palms in British
Guiana, Castnia daedalus, Cramer.—J1. Board Agric. of Br. Guiana,
_ Demerara, vii, no. 2, Oct. 1913, pp. 87-90.
The author states that in a coconut palm, well advanced in growth,
the presence of the larva of this moth is easily detected, the signs of
attack consisting of deep, irregular, longitudinal scars or furrows,
running up the trunk of the palm in continuous lines, often 3 to 4 feet
in length. The larvae themselves live in the burrows, which they
make between the trunk of the tree and the broad and thickened
bases of the leaves. In cases of severe attack, the trunk of the palm
immediately beneath the crown may become so weakened that a
strong gust of wind will cause the head to snap off. Frequent cases
of this are to be observed on the Demerara River. The financial loss
occasioned by this pest is an exceedingly serious matter, especially as
the adult insect is winged, and capable of sustained and powerful
flight. Descriptions of the various stages of the insect follow, but as
regards the life-history little is known at present, any close investi-
gation being an exceedingly difficult matter. The moths themselves
are entirely nocturnal, and may at times be seen on the wing at dusk.
Drastic measures are necessary to prevent further damage in the case
of a heavily infested palm. All the lower leaves: have to be carefully
removed by cutting them away at the base and securing the larva.
In this way as many as 19 larvae and pupae of Castnia daedalus have
been taken from a single palm. Palms in an infected district should
be examined at regular intervals for the presence of this pest, and to
this end, the lower and older branches should be regularly removed,
and the tree kept generally clean. No natural enemies have been
discovered so far, but C. daedalus does not appear to infest palms
inhabited by the so-called ‘‘ Kop-Kop ” ants.
Sugar-cane Pests in British Guiana.—Agric. News, Barbados, 16th &
_ 30th Aug. 1913, pp. 226 & 282.
The large moth borer (Castnia licus) was present on most estates in
1912, the grand total of insects captured in all three stages on seventeen
estates being 1,018,901, as against 2,384,430 for 1911. This decrease
is stated to be due to nine months’ extreme drought, and to the
excellent work of collecting in 1911. The conclusions regarding methods
of control are :— (1) Long-continued drought affects the insect
adversely ; (2) the peristent and vigorous collecting of caterpillars
and pupae in.the stools of canes is the most efficient method of fighting
this pest ; (3) the collection of the moths is a very useful practice ;
(4) birds may be encouraged by means of perches in the cane-fields,
and these are useful aids in the control of Castnia; (5) continued
warfare must be kept up against this pest until it-is reduced to very
small numbers over a series of years; a decrease for one year should
not be taken as a reason for ceasing control operations ; (6) continued
efforts on one estate, or on a group of estates may result in practically
freeing them ‘from Castnia licus, although in localities near by the
pest may be abundant; in such cases, however, the numbers can be
kept down otily:by persistent effort year after year. The most im-
portant sugar-cane pests in British Guiana are the small moth borers
(C11) Wt.P.11/12—26.3.13. 1,500. 2.14 B &F.Ltd. G.11/3. A
58
(Diatraea saccharalis and D. canella), now more abundant than 25
years ago. ‘The number of caterpillars and pupae collected by cutting
out “dead hearts” was 15,285,960 in 1913, as compared with
13,632,655 in 1912. It is advised that collecting should be commenced
at the earliest possible moment, in order to prevent, as far as possible,
the complete development of the larvae of the first generation, thus
largely eliminating the second and third. On five estates 281,181
eggs were collected. Attention is given to indirect aids to control,
prominent among which are :—( 1) The production of healthy vigorous
growing canes, and (2) the use of resistant varieties, To ensure healthy
plants, selection of the very best tops only is admissible, and all
operations of drainage, tillage, weeding, and manuring must be given
careful attention also. The Bourbon cane best fulfils the second con-
dition in British Guiana. Further suggestions are (1). that the trash
should not be burnt, and (2) that there should be less ratooning.
Termites come next to the small moth borer in point of severity of
attack. The weevil borer (Metamasius hemipterus) was present on all
estates, but abundant on only a few. Other insects, the occurrence
of which is mentioned, are: The coconut palm weevil (Rhynchophorus
palmarum ; the hard-back beetles, Dyscinetus bidentatus and Cyclo-
cephala signata; the shot-borer (Xyleborus sp.); the sugar-cane
Aspidiotus( Aspidiotus sacchari) ; the pink mealy-bug (Pseudococcus
calceolariae). A leaf-hopper and a frog-hopper (Tomaspis sp.) were
observed in very small numbers. The cane-stool moth, the dead cane
moth (Monodes agrotina) and several leaf-eating caterpillars, such as
Remagia repanda, Laphygma frugiperda and Lycophotia unfecta are also
recorded.
SoLanet (L. E.). Déstruction simultanée du Négril et de la Cuseute
des Luzernes. [The simultaneous Destruction of Colaspidema
atra and Lucerne dodder.]—Montpellier, n.d., 30 pp.
Experiments made during four consecutive years have shown that
calcium cyanamide, reduced to the finest and lightest powder possible
and applied annually at the rate of 90 Ibs. per acre, is an efficacious
remedy against both the beetle and the parasitic plant. It does not
interfere in any way with the growth of the lucerne. In order to
spread such a small quantity of cyanamide uniformly the author
advises its admixture with other substances, and gives the following
formula: Cyanamide, 1 part; gypsum, 2 parts; wood ashes, 1 part.
GowpeEy (C.C.). Report by the Entomologist of the Uganda Protec-
torate.—Annual Report of the Dept. of Agric. for the year ended 31st
March, Kampala, 1913, pp. 29-39.
Insects attacking Coffee.—Lecanium africanum, Newst., was the most
prevalent scale-insect during the year, attacking both vigorous and
weak trees, the latter usually fatally. It is treated successfully with a
‘solution of whale-oil soap at a strength of 1 Ib. of soap to 5 gallons of
water. Both L. viride, Green, and L. africanum are associated with a
black fungus. L. viride restricts its attacks to the under surface of the
eaves and to young shoots. This species has also proved susceptible
to treatment with whale-oil soap. It is preyed on by the Coccinellid
j
beetle Chilocorus discoideus, Crotch, and parasitised by a Chalcid.
Stictococcus gowdeyi, Newst., attacks the young shoots, and is rather
difficult to kill without using insecticides at such strengths as to affect
the foliage. A large percentage of Pulvinaria psidii, Mask., was para-
sitised. Ceroplastes ceriferus, And., in addition to coffee, attacks tea,
Anona murwata, Citrus spp., Ficus spp., and Antigonion. The
Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Ceratitis capitata, Wied.) in Uganda
breeds throughout the year, some kind of food being always available.
It has been bred from Anona muricata, banana, coffee berries, guava,
lemon, orange, pine-apple and papaya. Of the crickets, ryllus Aa
bimaculatus, de G., and Gryllotalpa africana, P. de B., the latter is the
more destructive, particularly so in nurseries with heavy shading.
The Coffee Beetle (Stephanoderes Coffeae, Haged) is reported to be
causing less loss to coffee-growers.
59
Insects attacking Cacao.—The scale-insects (Stictococcus dimorphus,
Newst.) were parasitised to a greater extent this year by the Noctuid
moth, Hublemma costimacula, Saalm. Experiments showed that a
spray of 20 per cent. solution of borax was most effective. Plant lice
(Aphis sp.) have only been observed to attack cacao from about one
to two-and-a-half years old, grown under heavy shade of bananas.
They attack the undersides of the young terminal leaves and form a
cabbage-like mass. They are always associated with an ant. This :
aphis is preyed on by the Mantids, Sphodromantis lineola, Burm., and
Pseudocreobotra wahlbergi, Stal. The crickets (Gryllotalpa africana, \/
P. de B., and Gryllus bimaculatus, de G.) are eaten by the natives, and
hand-collecting has proved successful. The operation can be carried
out most satisfactorily by providing hiding places in the nurseries,
such as grass or pieces of banana leaves, under which the crickets will
hide during the day, and can then be easily collected. The habits of
the Cacao Fruit Fly (Ceratitis punctata, Wied.) are similar to those of
the Mediterranean Fruit Fly. Ripe fruit is necessary for the eggs to
hatch ; if, therefore, the cacao pods are picked as soon as ripe the
maggots will not be fully grown, thus reducing the number of the
adults to infect the next crop. The Cacao Beetle (Adoretus hirtellus,
Castn.) seriously injures young trees under about three years old.
Sprays of arsenate of lead at the rate of 3 lb. to 50 gallons of water,
and of chromate of lead at the rate of 2 oz. to 4 gallons of water are
valuable insecticides, and withstand heavy rains.
Insects attacking Cotton.—The Cotton Stainers recorded are Dysdercus
nigrofasciatus, Stal, D. pretiosus, Dist., Oxycarenus gossypinus, Dist.,
O. hyalipennis, Costa. No report was received of damage caused by
Bollworm (Harias insulana, Boisd). Only isolated plants were
attacked by scale-insects (Pulvinaria jackson, Newst.) Several
specimens of the parasite, Tetrastichus gowdeyi, Crawf., were bred from
this scale.
Insects attacking Tea.—A_ scale-insect (Aspidiotus transparens,
Green) attacks the under surface of the older leaves and covers them.
Ceroplastes ceriferus, And., has not been found to be a serious pest.
The report concludes with two tables showing a list of 25 species of
ticks found in Uganda, together with their hosts and the diseases that
they transmit.
(C11) Fe
60
ANDREWS (EH. A.). On Insects. Part If.—Ind. Tea Assoc., Scientific
Dept., Quarterly Jl., Calcutta, 1913, pt. 2, pp. 33-42.
In the course of this article the following formula is given for use in
the nursery against grasshoppers suspected of injuring the young tea
plants: Lead arsenate, 1lb.; jaggery, 5lb.;.2water, 100 gallons.
Flooding the nursery for a short time, say half a day, appears to be a
practical measure against crickets. Another method of dealing with
them is by means of poisoned bait, Lefroy’s formula being: Husks of
rice, 80 lb.; white arsenic, 2 lb.; gur,4lb. When the young crickets
first hatch, they stay in the burrow, but after a few days emerge and
begin to feed, digging fresh burrows for themselves every night; as
they grow older they dig deeper, and eventually. adopt a permanent
burrow. Crickets do great damage to the tea plants, cutting off the
tops of the seedlings and dragging them to their burrows. They also
do injury to jute, indigo, rice, and many other plants. Owls and bats
consume large numbers of these pests, and heavy rains drive them out
of their burrows; when this happens birds destroy great quantities
ofthem. Digger wasps and ants are also to be reckoned amongst their
enemies.
Uricu (F. W.). The Froghopper Egg-Parasite (Oligosita giraulte,
Crawford) and its colonisation in the Cane Fields.—Bd. of Agric.,
Trindad and Tobago, Port-of-Spain, Cire. no. 11, 18th Aug.
1915, 9 pp:
The vermilion froghopper egg-parasite (Oligosita g vaults, Cw.) has
been bred from grass from various localities in Trinidad. From ex-
periments it is found that the most suitable stage of the development
of the froghopper egg for the parasite is that in which the embryo is well
advanced, and that the larval and pupal stages of the parasite take
from 22 to 41 days. The adult parasite is very active, and ever search-
ing for froghopper eggs, passing from one piece of grass to another by
little leaps. The multiplication of the parasite is by no means so great
‘as that of the froghopper. However, the eggs of the latter
require more moisture to hatch than the parasite requires for its
development, so that this is a factor greatly to the advantage of the
parasite. Another important factor is that the parasite reproduces
parthenogenetically and a female is ready to lay one hour after issuing
from a froghopper egg. Parasitism of froghopper eggs under normal
conditions is probably about 25 per cent. Colonisation of the para-
sites in the cane-fields is thought to be best carried out by transferring
grass yielding parasites by cartloads to fields harbouring no parasites.
‘Kersuaw (J. C.).. Froghoppers.—Bull. Dept. Agric., Trinidad and
Tobago, Port-of-Spain, xii, nos. 72 & 73, Aug. & Sept. 1913, pp.
3-12, 95-101, 3 pls.
The growth of the young sugar-cane could be hastened by a fertiliser
and the plants would probably hold their own against the nymphs of
the froghopper until grown too large to suffer much damage. Nitrolim,
a valuable and fairly cheap fertiliser, which is also of some use in
killing the nymphs, is therefore worth an extended trial. The planting
of trees and shrubs on waste land adjoining cane fields would en-
courage the spread of the tick bird (Crotophaga ani) and other useful
61
birds. In Trinidad the cane fields seem deficient in the various native
insects and spiders which prey on the adult froghopper, and the author
suggests that in the middle of large fields a small plot of cane be left
to provide a refuge and breeding place for them. Carbon bisulphide
is unsatisfactory as an insecticide for froghopper nymphs under field
conditions, as they are, as a rule, hermetically sealed on the rootlet
with spittle, which the fumes can only penetrate with difficulty. To
be effective, a very large quantity of the chemical would be necessary
and the expense would be prohibitive. If trash is left as long as
possible on the fields the parasites have a chance of hatching and
escaping, and the author believes that if the trash is left lying about
and not piled up, it is unfavourable rather than otherwise to the frog-
hopper eggs. There are three artificial methods of control, apart from
the Green Muscardine fungus, which promise some measure of success,
and which are being tried on a large scale at Chagunas :—(1) Using
Nitrolim as a manure primarily, and secondarily against the froghopper
nymphs; it is applied to the roots of the canes by the usual dusters.
(2) Kerosene-Lysol emulsion against the adult froghopper. This is
very effective if properly applied, as the insect is killed in a few minutes
if touched at all by the liquid. Lysol (3 oz.) and kerosene (9 oz.) are
mixed in the measure, and then stirred up in 4 gallons of soft water.
This 2 per cent. emulsion remains emulsified indefinitely. Kerosene.
and water is even more effective, but unless continually shaken up will
separate almost immediately, and is therefore unsafe for coolie use.
When making the experiments an ordinary whisky bottle (27 oz.) was
fitted with a cork through which passes a short piece of glass of + inch
bore, so that it emits a jet, not a spray. A little of the emulsion is
shaken into the leaf sheaths where the insects are hiding. This is best
done when the canes are small; when they are more than breast-high
it will be far more difficult to apply the liquid. (3) After each brood
of adult froghoppers, the old leaves on the growing canes should be
examined for eggs, and if any numbers are found, the canes should be
trashed and the trash taken at once to the cattle sheds for use as litter,
when the eggs will soon be destroyed. If the sheds are unable to deal
with all the trash at once, it should be stacked on bare ground away
from vegetation until it can be used. On some estates it might be
possible to spread it on a piece of waste ground and fold cattle tem-
porarily upon it.
The author insists upon the importance of directing remedial
measures especially against the first broods of the insect in the spring,
but meanwhile (Aug. 1913) he advises the continued and extended use
of trap lights for catching the adults, for the damage done to the cane by
the sucking of large numbers of adults on the leaves is very great. It is
supposed that a loss of 111 gallons of sap per acre is a very conservative
estimate, as many of the factors used in the calculation were kept very
low. Observations relating to the feeding of the adult froghopper show
that in one hour’s continuous sucking it voids about 0°75 c.c. of liquid
excrement. There is now little doubt that the Syrphid larva, noted by
Gough in 1910, is largely responsible for the diminished numbers of
the third froghopper brood. During the larval stage each of them kills
several froghopper nymphs, probably a dozen at least. This Syrphid
will be found in all localities, wet or dry, where the froghopper exists.
62
Uricu (Ff. W.). The Sugar-cane Froghopper and Biological Notes on
some Cercopids of Trinidad.—Bull. Dept. Agric., Trinidad and
Tobago, Port-of-Spain, xii, no. 72, Jan.-Aug., 1913, pp. 12-34,
7 figs., 6 pls., 3 diagms.
This paper is a complete treatise on the Trinidad froghopper.
Records of allied species in adjoining countries are given, and may be
summarised as follows: In Mexico, Tomaspis postica has been a plague
to the grass-lands of the State of Vera Cruz at least since 1880, and is
now common in the sugar-cane plantations there. Froghoppers have
been found on cane in British Guiana, but so far no damage is reported.
In 1883 they appear to have caused some trouble in British Honduras.
In Panama specimens of Tomaspis lepidior were collected on cane, and
an undetermined species of Tomaspis was taken in Cuba, but the food-
plant is not recorded. In Grenada and St. Vincent froghoppers have
been recorded under the name of 7’. pictupennis. In Suriname T. rubra
has been taken on Hupatorvwm odoratum, and T. pubescens is found on
grass. An undescribed species of Tomaspis was found on grass on the
Windward (north) side of Tobago.* The subjects next dealt with are
the origin and distribution of the insect, food-plants, and damage done.
These are followed by a complete life-history. The uncontrolled
progeny of a single female during four wet months is estimated at
20,000 adults. Hence the necessity for doing control work early in the
season. The conditions favourable to froghoppers are next men-
tioned, and it is stated that weeding, burial, or removal of trash, and
planting of cover crops are valuable remedial measures. Burning
the trash is a procedure which proves unsatisfactory. Seventeen
enemies are given: Two birds, the Scissors-tail Flycatcher (Mulvulus
tyrannus) and the Merle Corbeau (Crotophaga ant); a ground lizard
(Amewa surinamensis) ; a toad (Bufo marimus) ; several species of
Attidae or jumping spiders; a Mite (Rhyncholophus sp.); Phlugis
mantispa; a Mexican Reduviid bug (Castolus plagiaticollis) and the
Toad Bug (Galgulidae) ; several ants, Anochetus inermis, Solenopsis
geminata, Monomorium sp.; two species of CHALCIDIDAE ; a Syrphid
fly (Salpingogaster mgra); a Nematode (Mermis sp.); and two
fungi (Metarrhizium amsopliae and Empusa sp.). In connection
with natural control, the author advises an active campaign against
the mongoose, as it is the greatest enlemy of the ground lizard, which
he thinks is worth far more than birds, so far as the froghopper is con-
cerned. Insecticides form the last subject mentioned, and it is said
that several experiments against adults and nymphs were undertaken,
but none proved effective.
Mention is made of the fact that besides Tomaspis varia the sugar-
cane froghopper, there are three other species of the same genus
occurring in Trinidad. Luckily none of them attack sugar-cane, but
as they may be mistaken for 7. varia, brief descriptions with figures
are given of T. rubra, L., var. sororia, Germ., T. pubescens, F., and T.
guppyt, sp., Nn.
* [Since described as T. carmodyi, Kershaw.—ED.].
63
VASSILLIEV (Hug. M.). Plonsnenie Oontbe 2HayvTenbHbIXb KONM4ECTBS
NYFOBOrO MOTbINbKa VW MMYMHOKD CBEKNOBMYHON LMTOHOCKH. [The
appearance of Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L., in increasing numbers,
and also of the larvae of Cassida nebulosa, L.}—Tpygbi OnbiTHon
JHTomMONorM4ecKow Cranuin Bcepocciickaro OOwectsa Caxapo-
3aBOAYMHOBD 3a 1912 r. [Studies from the Expt. Entom. Sta. of the
All-Russian Soc. of Sugar-Refiners for 1912.] Kiev, 1913,
pp. 31-45, 5 figs. . ,
The author deals with his observations on the habits of Phlyctaenodes
stectacalis. In order to prevent the females from ovipositing on the
plantations, fumigation by means of smouldering dung, mixed with
sulphur, was applied with a certain degree of success. The insects
were also caught in fermenting molasses, but it was found out that they
are not attracted by molasses in the same way as Agrotis and Mamestra.
Oviposition started in the Governments of Charkov and Kiev in the
middle of June, and took place chiefly on weeds, and less frequently
on the leaves of sugar-beet, both on fresh and dry leaves. The author
pays special attention to the plants which serve as food for these
polyphagous insects, and he gives a long list of them arranged according
to the system of Professor Vettstein, of Vienna. From this he deduces
that these pests, belonging to one of the oldest families (Pyralidae)
select their food mostly from the oldest orders of plants—Fagales and
Urticales—and those orders which originated from them; most of the
plants attacked belonging to the families Chenopodiaceae and
Papilionaceae.
A Sphegid wasp, Ceratocolus alatus, Pz., has been observed to
destroy the moths of P. sticticalis by paralysing them and storing them
as food for their larvae; the cocoons of these wasps are more or less
composed of the wings of Phlyctaenodes. Other species of this genus
also prey upon Pyralid and Tortricid moths.
The author points out that it is not sufficient to mow down weeds
round the plantations or on fallow land, but that in order to destroy
the eggs effectively it is necessary either to spray the weeds before
mowing with a 5-6 per cent. solution of barium chloride or with a
5-10 per cent. solution of iron sulphate, or to burn the mowed grass,
having poured some kerosene over it.
The females do not oviposit on the plants on which they feed, but
always fly for this purpose to fallow fields, where they lay their eggs
mostly on Atriplex, an average of 26 eggs being found on one plant,
this number rising to 60 in some cases.
VASsILIEV (Hug. M.). Hopmubif pacteHia HbKOTOpbIXb pacTMTenbHOo-
AMHbIXd HACbHOMbIXb MW MPH4HHbI, OOYCHOBNMBaWWIA UXb
Bbidopb. [Plants serving as food for some herbivorous insects
and the causes of their selection.|—Tpypb! OnbITHO SHTOMONOrH-
yecKouw Cranuyin Bcepoccivckaro Odwectsa CaxaposaBop4nkoBb
3a 1912 r. [Studies from the Expt. Entom. Sta. of the All-Russian
Soc. of Sugar-Refiners for 1912.] Kvev, 1913, pp. 63-66.
The author refers briefly and in a general way to the relation between
insects and their special food-plants, a matter which, notwithstanding
its great importance, has been very little studied. A typical instance
64
of a monophagous insect is provided by the Phylloxera of the vine,
while there is not a single monophagous insect amongst the pests of
sugar-beet. The author deals specially with Bothynoderes punctwen-
tris, Germ., which, although polyphagous, discriminates in selecting
its food. It feeds on plants of the order Chenopodiacae and on one
plant of the order Polygonaceae. Of plants of the former order, it
feeds on Chenopodium album, L., Atriplex lacumatum, L., Salcola, Beta
_ vulgaris, L., and, according to some statements, on Bliiione of the
second order, it feeds on Polygonum aviculare, L.. The statements of
some authors that they have observed this insect feeding on Nicotrana
(Solanaceae) and Cucumis melo, L. (Cucurbitaceae) cannot be accepted
as definitely correct without further observations; the author’s
experiments have satisfied him that it does not feed on plants of the
orders Compositae and Papilionaceae. The two orders which serve
as food for this weevil are considered to be genetically related, the
Polygonaceae being the older and the Chenopodiaceae having probably
been derived from them. The author assumes that Bothynoderes
punctiwentris originated at a time when the connection between these
groups was closer, 7.e., when there were more intermediate forms
between them than at present, and that it fed previously on some
species of Polygonaceae, but later adapted itself definitely to the’
Chenopodiaceae. As to the causes determining the selection of plants,
they evidently depend on the physical and chemical qualities of the
latter. The author refers to the paper by Verschaffelt, ““ The causes
determining the selection of food in some herbivorous insects.” (Kon.
Akad. Wetensk. Amsterdam, 1910, pp. 546-542), and suggests that
perhaps the results obtained by this author may be utilised in applied
entomology for the compounding of sprays for the protection of plants.
[Compare also the paper by Dr. I. Tragardh noticed in this Review
Ser. B, 1, p. 223.]
LEevanpovsky (Revd. J.). Tlayxu—sparn nyenb. [Spider enemies
of bees.}—« Pycckin Myenosoqubin JlucTokb.» [Russian Bee-
Keepers’ Gazette.| Moscow, Nov. 1913, pp. 378-387.
The author has paid special attention to this subject, and gives a list
of the spiders which kill bees, together with an account of his own
observations. The spiders mentioned belong to three families.
THOMISIDAE: Thomisus onustus, Walck., (T. albus, Gmel.), Misumena
vatia, Cl. (Thonusus citraeus, Walck.) and Misumena tricuspidata, F.
Another genus of this family of spiders, Xystecus, is beneficial, as it ©
destroys the spiders of the two former genera. The author describes
his observations on one specimen of Thomisus citraeus, which settled
down on a Chrysanthemum corymbosum, L., growing near to a bush of
Hesperis matronalis, L., from which the bees kept gathering, and
sometimes sat down on the former plant to clean themselves; the
spider destroyed five bees in six days, perishing itself afterwards from
attack by Pelopaeus pensilis; the sucking of the victim continued
for about 24 hours. The author calculates that on this basis, 100
spiders are able to destroy 10,000 bees during four months of the honey
season.
The second family is Eprrripa®, the following species being known
to be injurious :—Epewra diadema, Clerck, EL. angulata, Cl., EZ. cormuta,
65
Cl., E. patagiata, Cl., E. selopetaria, Cl., Tetragnatha extensa, L., and
Miranda acalypha, Walck., the last species having been observed to
attack bees only this year. Of the third family, AGELENIDAE, only
Tegenaria atrica, C.K., is known to the author to prey on bees.
Uvarov (B.). OtTpaBneHHbin npuMaHKM Bb OopbOt cb capanyeBbimn.
[Poisoned baits in fighting locusts.|}—Reprint from « HOxKHO-
Pycckan C.-X. Faseta». [‘‘ South Russian Agric. Gazette,” |
Stavropol Entomological Bureau, Charkov, 1913, 11 pp.
The author refers first to some objections raised against the use of
“chemical remedies’ (spraying) against locusts on the ground that
Stauronotus maroccanus often lays its eggs in deserts, bare of any plants,
thus making it impossible to poison them by spraying, as there are no
plants. He is of opinion that locusts very seldom oviposit in deserts,
but usually keep near pastures or cultivated land, flying away only
short distances to deposit their eggs in steppes; even these steppes
provide some food for the hatched larvae in the form of scattered bush
plants, which can be sprayed and poisoned, although he admits that
in these cases there will be some waste of insecticides. As to places
quite destitute of any plants, evidently the larvae must feed there on
something, as otherwise they would starve wholesale, and such cases
have not been reported up till now. The larvae in such places feed
on various foods, horse-dung for instance, which they would not touch
under ordinary conditions. Therefore, he suggests the application of
chemical methods in those places by providing food and poisoning it,
and quotes a-work of D. Morosov, published in 1903, who reports
the successful use of various poisoned foods, consisting either of lucerne
or other leaves, horse-dung, or bran, imported into such places for that
purpose. He refers to the present use of poisoned bait in America,
South Africa, and Australia, and reports briefly on the results obtained
by this means in the Government of Stavropol during the campaign
against locusts in 1913. To make the food more attractive, the lowest
and cheapest grades of molasses were added to the bait. A full report
on these experiments will be given later.
Kurpsumov (N. V.). Fitepomanugbi, napasuTupyrousie Ha recceHckKou
MYWKb Cb OnmucaHiemb PBYXb HOBbIXb BMpOBb. | Pteromalid
parasites of Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor, Say) with a descrip-
tion of two new species.|—Reprint from « 3HTomMonorMyeckii
BécetTHukd » [‘‘ Entomological Herald”’|, Kiev, i, no. 1, 1913, 4 pp.
Pteromalids are chief amongst the parasites of the pupae of the
Hessian fly, but most of the species have not been sufficiently studied.
The following have been recorded in Europe :—Merisus intermedius,
Lind., M. destructor, Say, Micromelus subapterus, Riley, M.rufomaculatus,
Walk., and Holcaeus cecidomyiae, Ashm. In Russia the following
species have been reared :—Merisus intermedius, Lind., Micromelus
rufomaculatus, Walk., M. subapterus, Riley, Eupteromalus arvensis, sp.
nov., and Meraporus crassicornis, sp. nov. The author is of opinion
that M. wtermedius is a synonym of M. destructor, and that M.
subapterus is a synonym of M. pyrrhogaster, Walk., the latter
in its turn being only a wingless or semi-winged variety of
66
M. rufomaculatus, Walk. The last-named species has always been found
by the author as a hyperparasite, and he is satisfied that PrEROMALIDAE
usually attack the host when it has already passed into the pupal stage.
They frequently appear to be hyperparasites breeding on Polygnotus
minutus, Lind. A descriptive table of the various species of
PTEROMALIDAE is given, and the two new species are described in
English. Hwpteromalus arvensis is a common parasite of Hessian fly
in Poltava, Moscow and Kiev, while two females of Meraporus
crassicornis have been reared from cocoons of the host in Poltava in
1910, and nine in Kiev.
Tasmanian Insects Pests.—Report of the Tasmania Agricultural and
Stock Department for 1912-13, Hobart, 15th July 1913, p. 9.
The Director of Agriculture of Tasmania reports that there have
been no serious outbreaks of codling moth amongst fruit trees, and the
slight outbreak of San José scale in the city of Launceston has been so
successfully dealt with that not an insect, dead or alive, was found.
The trees received two good winter sprayings with lime and sulphur
wash, and every tree on which the live scale was found in summer was
also treated then with the sulphide of soda spray. The work was
carried out thoroughly, and many gardens in which the scale was found
iast year and which were treated are now perfectly clean.
Mercatr (C. L.). The Syrphidae of Ohio.—Ohio Biological Survey,
Bull. 1, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, xvii, no. 31,
June 1913, 122 pp., 3 figs., 11 pls.
This is the initial bulletin of the Biological Survey of Ohio, the
object of which is to secure accurate and detailed information as to
the occurrence, distribution, and ecology of the animals and plants of
Ohio. The bulletins will be published at irregular intervals, as the
investigations are completed. This volume is divided into three parts.
The first covers the following headings: General discussion of the
family ; general characters; an evolutionary table of larval habits ;
biological and ecological relations and economic importance of the
larvae ; ecological relations and economic importance of the adults ;
enemies and practical measures. The common milkweed (Asclepras
sp.) is a rather formidable enemy of the adult SyRPHIDAE, as their legs
are caught by the pollinia of this plant; thus large numbers of the
weaker-bodied flies are entrapped. The parasitic insects of the family
IcHNEUMONIDAE are also serious enemies of SYRPHIDAE, at least of the
Aphidophagous species. At times fully 75 per cent. of the individuals
collected were destroyed by these parasites. Minute Chalcid para-
sites also prey upon the larvae of Baccha babista. Something might
be done towards increasing the number of these valuable insects if
people could be brought to see that SyRPHIDAE, both as larvae and
adults, are among our most valuable friends. Part 2 contains a key
to known larvae and pupae of SyRPHIDAE, synopses of life-history
studies, and a review of the literature on the biology of the family.
Finally, Part 3 gives a key to the genera, a list of Ohio species and a
brief bibliography.
67
FLETCHER (T. B.). Note on Insects Attacking the Paddy Plant in
Southern India.—Madras Dept. Agric. Bull., Madras, iii, no. 67,
8th Apr. 1913, 10 pp., 10 figs., 2 pls.
OrtTHOPTERA :—Hieroglyphus banian, F., occurs in all rice-growing
tracts throughout the plains of Southern India. The eggs are laid in
masses in the ground, usually between October and December, the
young emerge about June, and become mature in about 70 days in the
case of males, or 80 days in the case of females. This insect feeds on
paddy, sugar-cane and maize, but chiefly on paddy, of which it is a
major pest, doing serious damage, both in the adult and hopper stages.
The best remedial measure seems to be the catching in small bag-
nets of the young hoppers soon after they have hatched out. Oxya
velox, F., is a smaller grasshopper than H. banian, and its life-history
is not known in detail. It feeds on paddy, cholam, sugar-cane, etc.,
and is usually a minor pest of paddy. It is often found in company with
H. baman, and may be controlled in the same manner by sweeping in
bag-nets. The adult grasshopper is sometimes attracted to lights at
night, and trial of light-traps is indicated in cases where damage is
being done.
CoLEOPTERA :—Hpicauta sp. This is a small Cantharid beetle,
found as a local pest of paddy in South Kanara in October, eating the
flowers and also attacking ripe ear-heads. The life-history is not
known. Collection of the beetles by hand or in small hand-nets is
indicated as a means of control. The Galerucid beetle, Ordes affinis,
Jac., has been found at Shoranur (Malabar), in July and August. Its
status as a pest is doubtful, at most it seems sporadic and_ local.
Leptispa pygmaea, Baly, a minute Hispid beetle is found chiefly in
South Kanara, Malabar, Mysore and Cochin, usually in July and
August. The eggs are laid on paddy leaves, and the grubs feed on their
upper surface, the attacked leaves usually folding over and hiding the
enclosed grub, which, when full-fed, pupates on the leaf, the beetle
emerging after about four days. The beetles also eat the leaves,
although to a less extent than the grubs. This insect may be a
serious pest, and is said to be worst in wet weather. No successful
remedy has been devised so far, but bagging by hand-nets may be
tried. Hispa armigera, Oliv. (aenescens, Baly), occurs in all the rice-
growing tracts of Southern India, and becomes sporadically a serious
pest of paddy. The eggs are laid on the leaves, in which the grubs
tunnel, producing discoloured patches, and ultimately pupate in the
leaf. No satisfactory remedy has been found so far, but catching the
beetles in nets is suggested. Calandra oryzae, L., the rice-weevil, can
scarcely be considered a pest of paddy, although occasionally found in
the field on ripe ear-heads, but it is a serious pest of stored rice.
LEprporTera :—Melanitis ismene, Cram., is found throughout
Southern India, occurring from sea-level to elevations above 7,000
feet. The pale green caterpillar feeds chiefly at night and sometimes
attacks paddy, but as a rule does very little damage. Parnara
mathias, ¥., the rice-skipper, occurs throughout the plains of Southern
India, but is a minor pest of paddy, as a rule, its numbers being kept
in check by various parasites and predators. The caterpillar lives in
leaves rolled longitudinally. P. colaca, Moore, has been found on
paddy at Saidapet and Madras, but is not a regular pest. Another
68
skipper, Telicota augias, L., is a minor pest of sugar-cane, but is stated
to feed on bamboo and paddy. It has not been noted as doing any
real damage. Cirphis unipuncta, Haw., the army-worm, occurs
throughout Southern India, chiefly in October and November. The
caterpillar is a minor pest of cholam, occasionally attacking paddy,
maize, etc. Protection of cultivated tracts by digging narrow steep-
sided trenches around them is usually the only practical measure to
prevent attack when the caterpillars are swarming. Spodoptera
mauritia, Boisd., occurs throughout Southern India, and the caterpillar
sometimes does considerable damage to seedling rice-plants. The
eggs are laid usually on the under-surface of blades of grass or paddy,
in batches covered by buff-coloured hairs from the female moth. The
caterpillar feeds at night, and when full-fed pupates in the soil, the moth
emerging after about ten days. In the case of small areas, such as seed-
beds, the following control measures may be adopted :—(1) Protection
of seed-beds by surrounding them with narrow steep-sided trenches ;
(2) collection of egg-masses; (3) spraying; and (4) flooding of area
and turning in ducks. This last method is used successfully in some
districts. Sesamia inferens, Wlk., occurs throughout Southern India,
the caterpillar being a bad pest of ragi, and often found as a minor pest
of maize, cholam, paddy, wheat and sugar-cane. The caterpillar
bores inside the stem, pupating in the larval burrow. The attacked
plants show dry ears, and destruction of these is indicated to prevent
extension of the attack. Remgia frugalis, F., is occasionally a very
minor pest of paddy throughout Southern India. The caterpillar
feeds exposed on leaf-blades. Psalis (Dasychira) securis, Hb., 1s a
minor pest of paddy throughout the plains of Southern India.
Pupation usually occurs on a leaf-blade in a cocoon formed of silk,
interwoven with larval hairs; the pupal period is about ten days.
The caterpillars are conspicuous and feed exposed, and are therefore
easily collected by hand. Ancylolomia chrysographella, Kollar, is found
throughout Southern India, the caterpillar feeding on paddy, Paspalum
dilatatum, and probably on all grasses. It has only been found on one
occasion as a serious pest of paddy seedlings, but is liable to occur at
any time in dry sandy localities. The pale green caterpillar feeds at
night, remaining during the day in long tubular galleries lined with
silk at the roots of its food-plant. Pupation occurs in the larval
gallery; the pupal period is about ten days. Control measures
include (1) flooding of affected areas to bring up the caterpillars, which
are greedily devoured by crows, etc.; (2) spraying of plants (in
small experimental areas, seed-beds, etc.); and (3) attraction of
moths by means of light-traps at night. Schoenobius bipunctifer,
Wlk., the paddy stem-borer, occurs throughout the plains of Southern
India as a very serious pest. The eggs are laid on leaves in clusters,
covered with yellowish hair. The caterpillar bores into the stems of
the paddy and pupation occurs in the larval burrow, which is lined with
silk. The moth emerges through a hole previously cut by the cater-
pillar through the side of the stem. No really successful control-
measure can be given as yet, but to reduce the damage the following
means are suggested :—(1) Ploughing and, if possible, burning of
paddy-stubble after the harvest is gathered; (2) collection of egg-
masses, which are conspicuous; and (3) attraction of moths to light-
traps at night. Nymphula depunctalis, Gn., is a serious pest of paddy
69
throughout Southern India. The caterpillar is semi-aquatic, living
in cases made of rolled pieces of leaf, and is furnished with bunches of
slender filamentous gills along the sides. It crawls up the plant above
water-level and feeds on the green tissues of the leaf. Pupation
occurs in the larval case. Draining the water off the affected fields is
indicated as a remedy, but this is rarely possible in practice, as this
pest is chiefly found in low-lying, water-logged areas. In some districts,
a thorny bush is dragged over the field to dislodge the larval cases, and
the water is then drained off; it is, however, difficult to see what is
the value of the thorny bush, and the draining of the water is evidently
the important factor where success is claimed for this method.
Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Gn., occurs throughout Southern India, and
is a minor pest of paddy as a rule, occasionally doing considerable
damage in the Northern Circars. It is not known as a pest in the
southern parts of Madras. ‘The caterpillar lives inside folded leaves,
of which the tip is fastened over the broader basal part ; it eats the
leaf tissue so that the leaves become whitened and sickly. No remedial
measures, applicable on field scale, can be suggested at present.
THYSANOPTERA :—Various species of Thrips occur on paddy, but
they have not been worked out.
Ruynenota :—Menda histrio, F., is found throughout Southern
India as a minor pest of paddy; also on wheat, cholam and pulses.
Collection by hand-nets is indicated in the case of small areas. Tetroda
histeroides, F., has been found at Salem and Coimbatore as an occasional
minor pest of paddy. Collection by hand and by hand-nets is sug-
gested on small areas. Leptocorisa varicornis, F., the rice-bug, occurs
throughout Southern India as a serious pest of paddy, especially on
the West Coast. The eggs are laid in rows on leaves of paddy and
grasses. The bugs especially attack the mpening grain, sucking the
milky juice, so that the ears turn wholly or partly white, no grain being
matured. Collection in hand-nets has been found the most efficient
method of control. Tettigoniella spectra, Dist., a small white Jassid,
occurs throughout Southern India in paddy fields. It has not actually
been noted to be a pest, but may at times do some damage. The
adults are strongly attracted to light at night, and this fact may be
utilised as one means of control. Nephotettix bipunctatus, F., occurs
on paddy on the plains of Southern India; it is probably a minor
pest. The adults also fly freely to light.
Thrips and Cacao Beetles.—Bull. Dept. Agric., Trinidad and Tobago,
xu, no. 72, Aug. 1913, pp. 66-70, No. 74, Oct. 1913, p. 136.
Mr. Rorer furnishes the following report on the cost of spraying
‘cacao. Against Thrips it is necessary to spray both leaves and pods,
and the figures given are for this method. A barrel outfit, costing
about £10, or a set of compressed air knapsack-sprayers, costing about
£20, will, under favourable conditions, spray about 500 trees a day ;
so if it is necessary to spray 1,000 a day, from £20 to £40 must be
invested in apparatus. One man should spray at least 75 trees a day,
or 100 if they are small, and iffacilities for spraying are good, so that 15
men should be well able to cover 1,000 trees a day. The cost of the spray
mixture itself depends on the materials and quantity used. Bordeaux
70
mixture costs about £1 13s. per 1,000 gallons, or £3 6s. if 80 lb. of
arsenate of lead are added. One per cent. lysol costs about £2 per 1,000
gallons, and nicotin sulphate solution about the same. Kerosene
emulsion is still more expensive. On the average, three-quarters of a
gallon of spray mixture is required per tree, so that 1,000 gallons will
cover 1,300 trees. These figures work out approximately at a
maximum of £3 per 1,000 trees per application. Spraying with
Bordeaux mixture alone is much cheaper than this. All things con-
sidered, the cost per 1,000 trees would be about £2. This can be
reduced by one-half or two-thirds if the fruit alone is sprayed. The
cacao spraying experiments were showing up well this year; not only
were the sprayed trees yielding better, but there was very little black
cacao, while in unsprayed places the percentage of black cacao was
very high.
Mr. Urich has noticed that when a certain insecticide turned out to
be good, and a demand was made on it, it generally gave out, and much
time elapsed before more could be had, even if telegraphed for. That
especially applied to lysol. A search is being made for natural
enemies of the cacao Thrips, and one may be found in Trinidad or
some other island. Later on, Mr. Urich reports a decrease of the
insects, but recommends a careful watch for their appearance on the
pods. As soon as this takes place the pods should be sprayed. Thrips
yield to good cultural methods very easily.
The ravages of the cacao beetle (Stirastoma depressum) are quite as
bad, if not worse, than those of Thrips. Energetic application of
trapping, and spraying with arsenate of lead is recommended. Arsenate
of lead can also be very well applied to small trees with a good-sized
paint-brush.
At the September meeting of the Board of Agriculture, Mr. Urich
stated that he observed but few Thrips on his recent visits to the dis-
tricts of Sangre, Grande, and Caparo, nor had he any reports of their
prevalence in numbers in other places. The rains appeared to be
keeping them in abeyance.
Adult cacao beetles were just appearing, and it would be well to
collect and trap them before they had time to lay eggs. In places
where Thrips or cacao beetles are known to be troublesome, spraying
should be carried out during October. For Thrips it is recommended
to use Bordeaux mixture and lysol in the proportion of one to two
gallons of lysol to every 100 gallons of mixture. For cacao beetles
Bordeaux mixture with 4 to 8lb. of arsenate of lead to every 100
gallons of mixture should be used.
Rorer (J. B.). The Green Muscardine Fungus.—Bull. Dept. Agric.,
Trimdad and Tobago, Port of Spain, Sept. 1913, xu, no. 73, p. 105.
A point of great economic importance is that infections with the
disease can be brought about as early in the season as the froghopper
appears. The author saw dead froghoppers of the first brood covered
with the fungus two weeks after the spores were applied, and this was
much earlier than he ever observed natural infection taking place.
He mentions that a few fungus cultivating cabinets have been con-
structed in Porto Rico, where certain beetles which attack sugar-cane
71
are found to be killed by this fungus. This is also the case in Illinois,
where it is used to combat an insect pest of Indian corn. In Illinois
a trial is being made of burying the fungus in the soil.
Two Useful Spray Fluids.—Jnd. Tea Assoc. Scientific Dept. Quarterly
Jl., Calcutta, 1913, pt. 3, pp. 79-84.
Bordeaux mixture attains its maximum efficiency when the copper
sulphate and lime (calcium hydrate) are mixed in the exact proportions
necessary to form copper hydrate. Any excess of either constituent
impairs the activity of the mixture, and loss of efficiency means loss of
money. A properly made mixture may be much more efficient than a
carelessly made one containing double the percentage of materials.
Besides being the best general fungicide, it improves the health of the
plant, and it has been proved that its use on leaves and fruit
intended for human consumption is in no way detrimental to the
consumer. The following quotation from the eighth report of the
Woburn Experimental Fruit Farm (1908) explains very clearly the
best method of making this mixture at present invented :—
“One hundred gallons of such mixture is prepared as follows :—
Dissolve 6 lb. 64 oz. of crystallised copper sulphate by suspending it in
a piece of sacking in two or three gals. of water in a wooden or earthen-
ware vessel. Take about 3 lb. of good quicklime and slake it in a little
water, then put it into a tub with 120 gals. of soft water. Stir the
lime and water, then leave it to settle until the liquid is quite clear.
Run off 86 gals. of the clear lime-water and mix it with the copper
sulphate. Make up to 100 gallons with soft water. However the
Bordeaux mixture is made, it is important to make sure that all the
copper is thrown down. The most certain test that fruit-growers can
use is to put a few drops of a solution of potassium ferrocyanide into
a white saucer with some water, and to drop into this some of the clear
liquid after the Bordeaux mixture has settled. A red or brown colour
shows that there is copper in solution, and more lime water must be
added until the test shows no coloration.”
Originally used as a sheep-dip, lime-sulphur has been proved to be
one of the best fluids for winter application to dormant trees, both as a
fungicide and as an insecticide, and it has the additional advantage
of stimulating the growth of the plant. The lime used should be the
best commercial quicklime (stone or lump stone); air-slacked lime
is useless. It is most undesirable that more than five per cent. of
magnesium oxide be present. To test the amount of impurity in
quicklime, the following simple method is useful. The apparatus
required consists of (1) a glass cylinder about 24 inches in diameter
and 15 inches high, which should be graduated in cubic centimetres,
and (2) a boiling vessel to hold about three pints. A quart of water
should be poured into the vessel, and the level at which it stands should
be marked on a piece of stick held vertically; then pour out the
water. Weigh out carefully 2 oz. of the lime to be tested, place in the
vessel and slake with water, adding the water gradually, not covering
up the lime with it until the slaking is complete. Then stir the
slaked lime into a paste with more water, continuing to add water until
the level marked on the stick is reached, and then boil. Weigh 4 oz.
of flowers of sulphur and stir vigorously into the boiling lime-water.
72
Boil gently for one hour, filling up to the mark with more water every
ten minutes, stir quickly and pour into the glass cylinder. Allow it to
stand overnight, and then measure the amount of the sediment in
cubic centimetres. In the following figures, given by the author, the
first represents the number of cubic centimetres of sediment, the
second the appoximate percentage of impurity, the third the weight
of the lime used, necessary to replace effectively 36 lb. of pure lime:
30—5 per cent.—38; 50—10 per cent.—40; 70—15 per cent.—42 ;
90—20 per cent.—45 ; 105—25 per cent.—48 ; 120—30 per cent.—5l.
The standard formula given is: best commercial quicklime, 36 lbs.
finely divided sulphur, 80 lbs.; water, 80 gallons. It is unwise to
use lime containing more than 10 per cent. impurities, as the sediment
clogs the spraying machines.
Another Cockroach Poison.—Agric. News, Barbados, 27th Sept.
1913, p. 314.
Under the heading Insect Notes, there is given a formula recently
tried in Barbados with apparently very good results. It contains
naphthalene and boric acid in equal parts, the naphthalene being finely
powdered before being mixed with the boric acid. This mixture has
been sprinkled plentifully in the haunts and hiding places of cock-
roaches at intervals of about two weeks, and after two or three
applications the insects almost entirely disappeared.
The following abstracts are taken from the monthly journal
« TypkectaHckoe Cenbckoe XosnincTBo » —| Agriculture of Turkestan],
published at Tashkent.
Notes on insect pests.—Agriculture of Turkestan, no. 6, June 1913,
pp, 585-590.
An editorial note deals with the multiplication of Stauronotus
maroccanus in the province. This pest has all but disappeared since
the campaign of 1911, and no damage by it was reported during the
last three summers. Gradually, however, the broods of the remaining
locusts—it is impossible to destroy all the insects without a single
one being left—have increased, and in 1912 although no swarms were
noticed, their egg-clusters were found in various localities. In the
province of Samarkand it was necessary again to organise a campaign
against them in some places, and their egg-clusters were also discovered
in the district of Tashkent, which will necessitate renewed efforts in
fighting them next year. 3
In South Eastern Bokhara the record in 1912 proved the existence
of egg-clusters over an area of 274 square miles, and £32,500 was
assigned to fight them. The use of the new insecticide, sodium
arsenate, gave excellent results; portable iron sheets were also very
useful. A field telephone was also brought into use for the first time,
-and greatly facilitated the communications between theseparate parties.
The insects are reported to have been destroyed by Pastor roseus
(Rose Starlings). No migrations of the pests from Afghanistan were
noticed this year, owing firstly to the gradual decrease in their numbers
in that country, and to the fact that this year they flew to the south, in
73
the direction of Kabul; thus the campaign ended with great success.
No damage to crops was done, and only small numbers of locusts
Temained, as in Turkestan in 1911.
Caloptenus italicus appeared in many parts of Turkestan, and also
in great numbers in the streets of Tashkent. Some damage to wheat
crops was done by this pest near the river Kashka-Darya, and
observations have shown that about 80 egg-clusters were laid on one
square foot. Serious damage to crops was also done by this locust in
company with Arcyptera truchmana in the settlement Novo-
Michailovsk, situated on the left bank of the river Tchirick.
Another note relates to migatory locusts (Locusta migratoria),
which hatched in 1912 in great numbers in their usual breeding
places, the districts of Perovsk and Kazalinsk and the delta
of the Amu-Darya. Notwithstanding the great numbers of egg-
clusters there was no outbreak of these locusts in the district of Perovsk,
owing to the overflow of the Syr-Darya during this spring when the’
clusters evidently were destroyed. According to statements from
competent sources, it is hardly possible to fight this insect in these
parts of the country, owing to local conditions, and usually no remedies
are applied.
According to a statement by M. M. Siazov, Epicauta erythrocephala,
which is very useful, as its larvae destroy egg-clusters of locusts, has
done some damage to crops in the current year (1913), as well as last
year. Potatoes and clover seem to have suffered most. |
It appears that very few pests of field crops have been noticed this
year, and neither the larvae of Caradrina nor those of Hylietus, which
injure cotton seeds and tomatoes, occurred in quantities worth mention-
ing, except on one estate where the last-named pest appeared, but
was successfully destroyed. Pests of orchards were very active, and
Cydia pomonella, C. funebrana, Rhynchites auratus, Pollyphylla adspersa,
various plant lice, etc., did much damage as usual.
Smirnov (D.). Bopb6a cb nepcnkoBov Thew, TepMUTAMM MW MypaBbAMU
np nomown KapOonuneyma. [The fight against Lachnus persicae,
Chol., termites and ants by means of carbolineum. |—Agriculture of
Turkestan, no. 8, August 1913, pp. 783-786.
The author records his attempt to control Lachnus persicae, an aphis
which does great injury to peaches in the Murgab estates, by smearing
‘carbolineum over the trunks and over the larger injured branches of
the trees. This was done in December, and in the case of ten trees
the smearing was applied too thickly, so that the author was
obliged to wash a part of it away with kerosene; the further
development of the trees was not satisfactory, and out of 16
smeared trees only 11 recovered, four recovered only partly, and one
died. The author explains these unfavourable results as being due
to the carbolineum having passed through the bark into the cambium,
plugging the vessels. He is of opinion that the smearing ought to be
done during the vegetative period in March and April and during wet
weather.
He further reports excellent results obtained by him in his house
by using carbolineum against termites and ants (Hodotermes turkes-
tanicus, Jacobs, and Camponotus maculatus turkestanicus, Em.).
(C11) B
74
These insects evidently cannot stand the smell of carbolineum, and by
smearing it over the wooden parts of the buildings, especially in places.
where the exits of the insects are situated, he was able practically to
free his house from them.
An editorial note to this article calls attention to the fact that in
the author’s experiment with carbolineum on peach trees he brought
in accidentally another material—kerosene—and it is not proved which
of the two was injurious to the trees. [See this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 6].
Parasites of Chloridea and the Codling Moth.—Agriculture of Turkestan,
no. 8, August 1913, pp. 810-813.
An editorial note deals with a parasite of tomato-worms, under which
name the caterpillars of Chloridea are popularly known in Turkestan.
Near Tashkent tomatoes were seriously damaged during last year
(1913) by two species of Chloridea, C. obsoleta and C. dipsacea; there
was also a caterpillar of a third species which remained unidentified.
These caterpillars are very injurious, feeding day and night on the
fruit. §. N. Bogoljubov, from the Entomological Station, has been
studying these insects, and found a parasite of them. The name of the
latter is not given, but a description of it is supplied; the females
kill the caterpillars with their ovipositor, feeding on their blood
and depositing eggs on the killed insect. The parasites prefer the
blood of fresh victims and pass from one caterpillar to another. In
the laboratory some females have killed as many as eight caterpillars.
during their life and deposited on them about 100 eggs. The develop-
ment of the parasite from egg to imago lasts eight to fifteen days, thus
a large number of generations is bred during one summer. Males of
this parasite were also noticed. It is suggested to assist the breeding
of these parasites by keeping the dead caterpillars, found near tomato
bushes in a box with a wire-netting lid, so as to enable the hatched
parasites to escape; such a box should be put in a tomato field on a
sheet of glass or other support, protected by varnish from ants. A
more detailed report is expected from Bogoljubov after the conclusion
of his observations.
Another note relates to the parasite of the egg of C. pomonella,
imported in 1911 by Radetzky from Astrachan [TZrichogramma
semblidis.| Last year (1913) they were found by Troitzky in many
orchards of Tashkent, besides those in which they were released in the
preceding years. In 1912, Plotnikov found these parasites in
Ferghana, where no imported specimens were released. In 1913,
they were found in the districts of Samarkand and Ferghana.
Whereas the parasites in Tashkent are exclusively parthenogenetic
females, in Ferghana both sexes are found, and the parasites hatch
from fecundated eggs; the parasites in Samarkand, where also
both males and females are found, differ in colour.
It is reported that in the garden of the governor of Ferghana, where
enormous quantities of these parasites were found, and where in the
first half of July all the eggs of C. pomonella were infested by them,
there were also found large quantities of caterpillars of the codling
moth. The information obtained will decide the question as to
whether the imported parasites have been able to acclimatise them-
selves in Turkestan or whether there are local representatives of them.
75
MrRosHNITCHENKO (A.). WUctpednenie wepwHei W 0Cb Ha nacbeKaxb
MW BHHOrpapHuKaxb. [Destruction of hornets and wasps in bee-
hives and vineyards. |—Agriculture of Turkestan, no. 9, Septembor
1913, pp. 931-934.
The author suggests a new method of destroying wasp-nests, which
he has applied with success. He used a soldering lamp, which gave a
flame of about 54 inches long. By directing the flame into the nest,
it was possible to remove the latter, and also to destroy it, by burning
it with the same lamp, without being subjected to stings from the
insects ; the strong glare keeping the wasps back and not allowing
them either to protect themselves or to escape. The author has
destroyed in this way 111 nests of wasps without being stung.
It appears from the author’s remarks that wasps are a most serious
pest in that country and, according to statements of persons knowing
South European Russia and the Crimea, there is no place where wasps
are so abundant as in Turkestan.
PiotniKov (V.). Pachydissus attacking Poplars.—Agriculture of
Turkestan, no. 10, October 1913, pp. 1038-1040.
In reply to a correspondent who sent in an insect pest which has
done great damage to poplars and other trees in Kokanda, the author
identified the species as Pachydissus sartus, Sols., and gives information
as to its habits. As a remedy he suggests cutting out and burning
the damaged trees; the remaining trees must be kept in a healthy
state, and any parts of them damaged from other causes must be
smeared over with carbolineum, tar or pitch, adding creosote or carbolic
acid.
DERIABIN (P.). JIM4MHKA WenKyHa, KaKb Bpegutennw xnonyaTHuka.
[Larvae of a species of Hlateridae as pests of cotton. }—Agriculture
of Turkestan, no. 10, October 1913, pp. 1040-1041.
The author reports damage done to cotton by larvae of a species of
ELATERIDAE. He first noticed this on the 2lst April in a cotton
plantation in the district of Samarkand; the larvae gnawed through
the collar of the root in plants which had already sprouted, also injur-
ing the cotyledons of seedlings. The plants suffered most in their first
two stages, while later they were better able to withstand the attacks
of the pests. On the date given, the larvae were found at a depth of
24-3 inches below the surface of the soil; on the 11th May they
stopped injuring the plants and were found at a depth of 4-44 inches ;
searches made in the first half of June resulted in no larvae being
found, they having evidently passed to a considerable depth into
the earth.
SEVASTJANOV (J.). HKpoBanaA THA M Mbpbl Gopbobl cb Hew. [L77-
osoma (Schizoneura) lanigerum Hausm., and remedies against it. ]
—Agriculture of Turkestan, no. 11, November 1913, pp. 1103-1128,
10 figs.
The author starts with a general historical review of the spread of
this pest, and particularly in Russia, where it appeared first in the
(C11) B 2
76
Crimea in 1862, spreading in the seventies of the last century to Sotchi
and thence to Transcaucasia. As to European Russia, the special
investigations conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture in 1896 in the
Governments of Bessarabia, Cherson, Podolia, Ekaterinoslay, Taurida,
Charkov, Poltava, Kiev, Volhynia, Tchernigov, Kursk, Orel, Smolensk,
Mohylev, Poland, and the Don district, showed a total absence of the
insects in those areas, its habitat being thus limited to the Crimea
and the Caucasus; indeed, fruit-growers in South-Western Russia
have often received young apple trees infested with these plant-lice,
but the latter have disappeared. The author quotes Mokrzecki,
according to whom these lice are less injurious in the Crimea than in
Western Europe, which he explains by the fact that in the former
country the development of the pests is checked by the unfavourable
weather conditions, which the insects meet with in a greater degree
the further they move towards the east. Other authors, however,
consider these lice to be very injurious, and Rollov, who studied the
insects of the Caucasus, gives instances of young trees attacked by
£. lanigerum, perishing in two to three years, while the yield of fruit on
older trees attacked was gradually reduced to nothing. In 1896
special regulations were issued in the Crimea as to the fighting of
E. langerum; these regulations empowered the District Zemstvo
of Simferopol to deal with this question through a special committee
appointed by the Zemstvo and special superintendents in various
districts; they made the notification of the appearance of these pests
compulsory upon the owner of an orchard, and while leaving to him
the selection of proper remedies, empowered the district superintendent
to act on account of the owner in case the latter failed to take the
necessary measures, or if the remedies applied by him proved of no
effect. They further prohibited the sale and export of trees from
nurseries attacked by the pests, and authorised the Zemstvo to destroy
trees which, in the opinion of the district superintendent, could not
be saved.
As to Turkestan, the appearance of EH. lanigerum was mentioned in
the report of Plotnikov for 1911, and although the injuries done by
them are less than those done by other sucking insect pests, there are
signs that they are increasing, and they may prove very injurious in
the near future. The author thinks that it would be premature to
compel the native population to take drastic measures against these
lice, as this may have an opposite effect, by creating mistrust of the
entomological organisations of the country, which, up till now, have
been able to interest the native population in their activity. He
addresses himself to the Russian population, urging the necessity
of applying energetic remedies during the coming winter.
The author goes on to describe the insect in its various forms, and
its bionomics, and points out that there are no parasites known to
destroy them. Their known enemies are the larvae of some rapacious
beetles, especially lady-birds, and he quotes a statement by Shevirev,
who observed the destruction of whole colonies by the larvae of
Euproctis chrysorrhea.
As preventive measures he suggests the disinfection of nursery stock
with carbon bisulphide, describing the method of application, and also
the keeping of the trees in a clean healthy state by scraping off the
dead bark, smearing with milk of lime, manuring of slow-growing
at
trees and taking care to smear any wounds on the trees with tar or
some greasy material. He recommends the destruction by burning
of infested branches or trees, whenever possible, if the trees attacked
are not too valuable to be destroyed, and the destruction of the lice
by crushing them, even by hand ; insecticides may be usefully applied
late in autumn and in winter when the lice lose their “down.” In
crushing the lice with brushes, the use of a poison—Nessler liquid—is
recommended, as described by Mokrzecki (about 53 oz. of green soap,
a quarter of a pint of amyl alcohol, one-eighth oz. of carbolic acid, and
eight pints of soft water). When the lice are discovered on the
roots, the latter may be safely sprayed with this mixture, or,
as recommended by Rollov, the earth round the trees must be dug
to a depth of about 3-35 feet, a solution of milk of lime in water poured
over the roots, the latter being afterwards covered with slaked lime
and earth. Smearing with carbolineum, and spraying with kerosene
emulsion and with quassia is also recommended; for kerosene
emulsion the following recipe is given by Plotnikov: 1? oz. of caustic
lime, 3 lb. of kerosene, and 2°7 gals. of water. Radetzky has recom-
mended smearing the trees with a solution of 3-3? lb. of naphtha soap
in 2°7 gals. of water.
A list of eleven Russian works on the subject concludes the article.
CRAWFORD (D. L.) Control of the Orange Maggot (Trypeta ludens).—
Mexico Gulf Coast Citrus Association, Tampico, Circular no. 1,
17th Sept. 1913, 5 pp.
The pest known as Trypeta ludens, or the orange maggot or fruit fly,
is a very serious one. Its attacks are not limited to citrus fruits, of
which the following have been found to be infested : Grape-fruit, navels,
Boone’s Early, Hart’s Late, tangerines, citrons, sweet limes and sour-
oranges. The eggs are laid within the skin of the fruit in a small
puncture made by the ovipositor of the female. They hatch in about
ten days, and the tiny maggots eat into the pulp, decay sets in and the
fruit drops. After three weeks inside the fruit the maggots work their
way into the ground and pupate, and the fly emerges nearly a month
later. From egg-laying to the emergence of the adult occupies about
three months. The control method already practised, frequent
collection and destruction of the fallen fruit, is effective to a certain
extent, but poisoned baits should also be used. All fallen fruit should
be buried in a deep pit and covered with at least two feet of soil.
Burning the fruit is more satisfactory, provided it be done thoroughly,
for the maggots are very resistant to heat. Incinerating furnaces are
the best for this purpose. The formula for preparing the bait spray
is as follows: 61b. of dulce syrup (thick), 1 lb. of arsenate of lead
(paste), 20 gals. of water. If this cannot be obtained, the following
substitute may be used: 1 lb. of white arsenic, 4]lb. of sal soda
(washing soda), and 1 gal. of water. Boil these ingredients in an iron
vessel for about twenty minutes, or until dissolved. The liquid thus
made is arsenite of lime, and must be diluted. Itis less satisfactory than
arsenate of lead, because it is washed off the trees more easily. This
stock solution of arsenite of lime is to be used as follows: 6 lb. of dulce
syrup (thick), one pint of arsenite of lime, 4 lb. of freshly slaked lime,
and 20 gals. of water. The lime absorbs any free arsenic which would
78
injure the foliage. One pint of the liquid is sufficient for one tree, and
it may be sprayed on the lower and middle branches and fruit. If
there is no rain, the bait will last effectively on the trees for about ten
days. Success largely depends on applying the spray for the first flies,
as well as for the last ones.
Assy (8. F.). Annual Report on the Department of Agriculture
for the year ended 31st March 1913.—Jamaica, Kuvngston,
1913, p. 30.
S. F. Ashby reports that scales have been severe during the drought,
on orange and grape-fruit. The two most destructive scales were the
purple mussel scale (Lepidosaphes becki) and the citrus snow scale
(Chionaspis citri) on trunks, branches and twigs mainly. Of less
importance on leaf and fruit, were the red scale (Aspidiotus articulatus)
and the red spot scale (Chrysomphalus aonidum). The purple scale
is widely parasitised by a Chalcid (Aspodiotiphagus citrinus, Crwf)., and
in wetter districts by the “ red-headed fungus” (Sphaerostilbe cocco-
phila).
Prerce (W. D.) The Occurrence of a Cotton Boll Weevil in Arizona —
Jl. Agric. Research, Washington, i, no. 2, 10th Nov. 1913,
pp. 89-96, 9 figs. 1 pl.
In February 1913, an insect resembling the cotton boll weevil was
found breeding in the bolls of a wild shrub known as Thurberia
thespesiordes in Ventana Canyon, Arizona. In May, the author obtained
a large quantity of heavily infested bolls of Thurberra from the lower
part of Stone Cabin Canyon, Arizona. A close examination of the
material disclosed many minor points of difference from the usual
form of the cotton boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis, Boh. In
addition to these differences of structure, certain differences of habit
were noted; it was found, however, that A. grandis would feed upon
Thurberia, while the Arizona species would equally feed on cotton ;
and it was possible to obtain crosses of the two forms. It is, therefore,
decided to regard the two as being merely different varieties of the
same species. For the Arizona variety the name, Anthonomus grandis
thurberiae, var. n., 1s proposed. A systematic description and an
account of the life-history are given.
The Arizona weevil may be able to cover considerable distances by
flight, especially if compelled to seek sustenance elsewhere. It will,
however, probably cleave to its native food-plant so long as this
gives sufficiently abundant food, but should the supply for any reason
become scarce, it is to be feared that the weevil will take to cotton, to
which it would do considerable damage. It is thought that a whole-
sale destruction of the native food-plant might merely cause the insect
to turn its attention to cotton. The matter is now under investiga-
tion, but at present it is the author’s opinion that the safest plan is to
preserve the status quo of the weevil in the mountains. An intro-
duction of parasites from the cotton boll weevil would be of consider-
able assistance in reducing the Arizona weevil, and would not cause
its dispersal.
The cotton boll weevil has never been able to invade successfully
beset ae
the drier cotton sections of western and north-western Texas, although
it is probable that it will gradually adapt itself to the more rigid con-
ditions obtaining there. It is of extreme importance that the Arizona
weevil be kept out of western Texas and any part of the south-east.
If accidentally introduced into other sections, there is reason to believe
that it might be able to stand much greater variations of climate
than Anthonomus grandis, and become a much more serious pest.
79
Dosrovuiansky (V. V.). Kb Oionoriv Thew nnofoBbIXh pepeBbeBb
MW AFOMHbIXb KyCTOBb. [On the Biology of Aphis pests of tree
and bush Fruit.| Hiesckan Q3HTomonorwy4eckan CTraHyia npn
HOmno-Pycckomb Odwectst Moowpenia 3emnegtnia wn Cenpcxoi
MpompiuinenHoctu.—| Pubd. by the Kiev Entomological Station of
the South-Russvan Agricultural Syndicate], Kiev, 1913, 48 pp.
This memoir is the result of observations on aphids collected by the
author during the summer of 1912 around Kiev ; his primary object
being the study of the life-history of Aphis pomi, de G. He first gives
the following list of aphids found on certain fruit trees, but does not
‘claim that it is exhaustive. On fruit trees of the genus Pirus :—
Myzus mali, Ferr., M. pyrinus, Ferr., M. pyrarius, Pass., Aphis poma,
de G., A. fitchi, Sand., A. sorbi, Klt., A. crataegi, Klt., A. pyri, Koch,
Schizoneura langera, Hausm., S. pyri, Goethe, Rhizoctonus ampelinus,
Hory., Phylloxera piri, Mokr. On fruit trees of the genus Prunus :—
Phorodon humuli, Schr., Rhopalosiphum persicae, Sulz., Myzus cerasi,
F., Hyalopterus prum, F., Aphis prunorum, sp. n., A. prunina, Walk.,
A. cerasina, Walk., A. persicae, Klt., A. prum, Koch, A. prunicola,
Klt., Lachnus persicae, Chol. On bush fruit of the genus Ribes :—
Rhopalosiphum ribis, L., Myzus ribicolus, Kit., M. ribis, L., Aphis
grossulariae, Klt., Schizoneura ulmi, L., (fodiens, Buckt.), S. grossu-
lariae, Schule. On bush fruit of the genus Rubus :—Macrosiphum
rubi, Kit., Aphis idaer, Goot., A. urticaria, Kit., A. mordwilkiana, sp. n.
Aphis pom. The author found these aphids mostly on apple and
pear trees; also on white thorn, Cydonia vulgaris, Pers., (quince),
Mespilus germanica, L. (common medlar), and on Cotoneaster vulgaris
Lindl. (medlar var.) On apple and pear trees they first suck the buds,
then the lower sides of young leaves and shoots; from June onwards
they are found mostly on the lower sides of leaves of apple, while on
pear trees they are found less frequently ; in the autumn they were
found only on the leaves of apple. The development of the larvae,
from birth till after the last moult, occupied 2 weeks in April, while
in May and in June it was only 10 days. The number of larvae pro-
duced by each parthenogenetic female was 25-30, in the case of wing-
less specimens, and 20-25 in the case of winged ones. Amongst
their natural enemies the author records, Hzochomus quadripustulatus
in April, while in June larvae of another ladybird were found, as well
as those of Syrphid flies ; in July and August the larvae were destroyed
by the larvae of Bremia, as well as by Coccinella 14-punctata, L., in
August. Some specimens were infected by a parasite, and the author
reared some secondary parasites: Pachyneuron aphidis, Bouché,
Encyrtus aphidiworus, Mayr, and Lygocerus sp. The author is satisfied
(1) that there is no total disappearance of these aphids from apple trees
‘during the summer, but that they pass their whole life-cycle on them ;
80
(2) that it is most unlikely that any migrations take place; (3) that
the decrease in their numbers depends upon the decrease in the
fertility of the viviparous females; dissections of females taken at
different periods of the season have shown that their fertility remains
constant from May to July, while it decreases by one-half in August.
Aphis sorbiwas rare. The author did not find them on cultivated
fruit trees, although other observers report that they attack apple.
Aphis crataegi. According to Mordvilko this species migrates
during the summer from the white thorn to certain grasses which serve
as intermediate hosts ; the second generation consists almost exclusively
of winged migrating females, which start a new generation on
Ranunculus. These were previously considered to be a distinct species,
Aphis ranunculi, Klt. The author’s observations have confirmed
the statements of Mordvilko. Besides white thorn, he found the
stem-mothers also on apple trees. On the same trees he found also,
inside some curled leaves, aphids which strongly resembled specimens
of A. crataegi, and which were described by Kaltenbach as a genera-
tion living specially on apple trees. According to Mordvilko A.
crataegi migrates also to Aethusa (fool’s parsley). The damage done
by the form found on apple trees is very great. The author reared
from the stem-mothers of A. crataegi, a parasite, identified by Kurd-
jumov (by whom all the other parasites mentioned were also identified)
as E'phedrus lacertosus, Hal.
Phorodon humuli lives on thorn bushes, on Prunus insiticia, L.
(bullace), and on plum trees, migrating to Humulus lupulus, L. (hops).
At the same time the author found that some individuals pass the
whole summer on plum trees. Those found during the summer on
hops are exclusively wingless females, only the last generation, con-
sisting of winged specimens, migrating back to the plum trees. These
aphids do not visibly injure plum trees, but cause great damage to
hops, being the most dangerous pest of these plants.
Myzus cerasi was found by the author during the whole summer,
after 9th June, on cherries, there being practically no winged females.
His observations did not confirm the statement by Kessler that these
aphides migrate in the summer, although he is unable definitely to
dispute this statement. The damage done by them to cherry trees is
very great, when they appear in large numbers. The author found
the following insect enemies : Larvae of a Chrysopid, of Bremza and of
Syrphid flies; imagos of Coccinella bipunctata, L.; he found also
empty skins of aphids, from which some parasite had emerged.
Hyalopterus prunt. The author confirms the discovery by Mordvilko
that this is synonymous with H. arundims, F., which is found in
summer on reeds, to which they migrate from plum trees, returning to
the latter in autumn. Some, however, do not migrate at all, so that
from June to August they can be found on both the primary and
intermediate host plants. Besides plum trees they are also found on
apricots, peach trees, thorn-bushes (Prunus spinosa, L.) and on
Prunus insiticia, L. The sucking of these aphids affects the leaves
but little, but they assist the development of a fungus (Capnodiwm
salicinum, Mont.), and cause considerable damage by attacking unripe
fruits at the beginning of summer. These aphids were found to be
destroyed by Syrphid larvae and by those of Bremia ; many specimens
81
were infected by Praon flavinode, Hal., out of some of which the author
reared a hyperparasite, Lygocerus sp.
Aphis prunorum, sp. nov. These were identified by Mordvilko as a
new and undescribed species, and the author gives descriptions of the
winged and wingless parthenogenetic female, larvae, nymph, and
sexual female. He found large colonies of these insects on a young,
green shoot of an apricot tree on the 6th June, consisting of wingless
females, nymphae and young larvae; on the 9th July they were
found, mostly as winged females, nymphae and larvae of all stages,
on leaves of apricot trees; on the 22nd July only winged females and
nymphae were found, and from the 29th July till the 9th September
no specimens could be found on any plants; on the last date they were
again observed on leaves of plum trees, where they were found until
the 30th October. Evidently they migrate in the summer to some
intermediate host plants.
Aphis prunt. The author found larvae and wingless females on
young leaves of plum trees on 29th May, but by the end of July the
insects had entirely disappeared from these trees, being found instead
on Cynoglossum officinale, L. (dog’s tongue) during July-August.
But the author is satisfied that these two, A. cardwi, L., and A. pruni,
Koch, are synonymous, and that the latter form migrates in the summer
to some intermediate host plants, returning in the autumn to plum.
He further thinks that it is probable that the species described by
Koch as A. jacobaeae, Schr., A. symphyti, Schr., A. chrysanthemi, Koch,
and A. carsellae, Koch, are all synonymous with Aphis cardwi, L. s.
prum, Koch. A. pruni also occurred on young shoots of apricot trees,
as well as on Prunus spinosa, L.; a large proportion of those found
on the latter plant were infected by the parasite, Lysiphlebus (A phidius)
cardui, Marsh.
Rhopalosiphum ribis. The author’s observations again confirm
those of Mordvilko, to the effect that this species migrates in the summer
from its chief host plant, black currant, to various species of Sonchus
(sow thistle). He found many enemies and parasites of these flies ;
they were devoured by larvae of ladybirds and of Syrphid flies and by
bugs of the genus Anthocoris ;_ he also reared the parasites Praon volucre
Hal., and Ephedrus lacertosus, Hal. ; from these parasitised specimens
the hyperparasites, Pachyneuron sp. and Lygocerus sp., were also
reared.
Myzus ribicolus. The author’s attention was called to this species
only in the autumn, when he found them on the 6th September on
black currant; he failed to distinguish them in the spring, owing to
their similarity to Rhopalosiphum ribis ; they were not to be found on
currants during the summer.
Myzus ribis. These were found during the whole summer and
autumn on black and red currants. They do not harm black currants,
but produce bright red protuberances on leaves of red currants. The
author found that they were destroyed by larvae of one species of
Syrphid, and by those of the Bremia; a considerable number were
infected by Lysiphlebus (Aphidius) ribis, Hal.
Aphis grossulariae. According to the author these are the most
injurious of all the currant aphides; he found them from the 23rd April
to the end of October. The following enemies of these lice are reported :
Syrphid larvae, larvae of Bremia, the beetles Exochomus quadri-
82
pustulatus, L., some predaceous bugs, and the parasite Lysiphlebus
cardui, Marshall, var.; the latter playing an important part in the
destruction of the insects.
Schizoneura ulmi. These lice were found in May on Ulmus effusa,
Willd., and on Ulmus montana, With., in galls on the leaves; the
second generation consisted of winged females, which migrated during
June to the roots of red and black currants (Sch. fodiens, Buckt.). In
September and October the winged sexes flew back to the chief host
plants. The author states that they are distinctly injurious to currants
when present in any numbers. The only remedy is to remove all elm
trees from the orchards attacked, as they winter on elms, and cannot
exist without them.
Macrosiphum rubt. This species was found in July, and afterwards
during the whole summer and autumn on leaves of raspberry bushes,
but always in small numbers. No damage by them was noticed.
Aphis vdaev. Found on raspberry bushes in May and during June ;
they disappeared afterwards. The damage done by them to rasp-
berries is great.
Aphis mordvilkiana, sp. nov. This new species was found by the
author in September underneath leaves of raspberry bushes. He
thinks it probable that the lice were there before, but were not dis-
tinguished by him from larvae of Macrosiphum rubi, K\t., which they
resemble at first sight. They rested on the leaves singly, chiefly along
the veins; underneath one leaf some dozens of specimens were found.
All the specimens noticed were wingless females and their larvae; no
winged females, nymphae, or males were found. On October 15th,
the author found groups of eggs of this species on branches of raspberry
bushes, near the buds. The majority of the eggs had already turned
black, but freshly laid eggs, as well as ovipositing females were also
found.
ParKER (W. B.). Flour paste as a control for red spiders and as a
spreader for contact insecticides—U.S. Dept. Agric. Bureau
Entom., Washington, Cire. no. 166, 30th Jan. 1913, 5 pp., 2
figs.
Flour paste is not only a suitable “spreader” for lime-sulphur
solutions, but it apparently serves, to some extent, as an active
insecticide. Hach gallon of paste contains | lb. of flour, and the addition
of four gallons of paste to 100 gallons of liime-sulphur causes the spray
to adhere to the leaves as a thin film, increasing its efficiency almost
threefold, mainly owing to the spreading effect of the paste. A series
of trials was made with nicotin sulphate against the hop aphis
(Phorodon hunvwulz) in which flour paste at the rate of four gallons to 100
gallons of the nicotin sulphate solution. at strengths of one in 2,000,
and one in 3,000 wasemployed. In these trials from 99 to 100 per cent.
of the aphides were destroyed. It was observed that many of the
smaller aphides were pasted on to the leaves. Accordingly, flour paste
without any other insecticide was tried, and when used at the rate of
eight gallons (= 8 lb. flour) in 100 gallons of water or even stronger
(say 10-100 or even 12-100) most of the young and tender aphides
(97 per cent.) and of the red spiders (Tetranychus bimaculatus) were
killed. No damage was done to the hop plants, even when in full
€
83
‘bloom. The older and stronger aphides, and the eggs of the red spider,
were not killed by the flour paste. To deal with the latter, it was found
necessary to make a second application, seven or ten days later, in
-order to reach the mites that emerge from the eggs. In a series of five
experiments against red spiders on hops with flour paste at the rate of
8-100, it was found that from 99°8 to 100 per cent. were killed. This
paste solution is exceedingly cheap. It has been used successfully
against red spiders on beans, chrysanthemums, hops, cucumbers (in
greenhouse and field), pumpkins, pears, prunes, roses (in field), and
violets (in greenhouse and field). The chrysanthemum leaves may
become spotted if spraying is done too near the time of blooming.
Flour paste was not satisfactory when used upon greenhouse roses
and carnations or field sweet peas. To prepare the flour paste, mix a
cheap grade of wheat flour with cold water, making a thin batter,
without lumps, or wash the flour through a wire sieve with cold running
water and make up to one gallon of water to each | lb. of flour. With
‘constant stirring to prevent burning and caking, cook until the paste
is formed. It will be necessary to add sufficient water to balance loss
by evaporation. Ineffective spray is due to insufficient cooking.
When overcooked, the paste hardens when quite cold and cannot be
easily mixed with water. Usually, overcooking is not disadvantageous.
In the spray tank the paste tends to settle, and the solution must be
agitated to ensure good results, but it shares this slight disadvantage
with most materials. It is a most effective spreader for lime-sulphur
and nicotin sulphate sprays, is easily obtainable, and has no odour
like fish-oil soap. Used alone at a strength of 8-100, it is effective
against several leaf-feeding mites and some very delicate aphides.
From observations made during four months, it seems possible that
flour paste may be useful as a spreader for lime-sulphur for scale-insects
-and fungi, and as a “ sticker ” for arsenicals.
Prohibition of Removal of Certain Diseased Plants.—Proclamation of
the Governor of South Australia, Adelaide, 15th May 1913.
The Governor, with the Executive Council of South Australia, by
virtue of the provisions of “ The Vine, Fruit and Vegetable Protection
Acts, 1885 and 1910,” prohibit the removal of citrus trees or the fruit
of citrus trees from any part of the State into a stated portion of the
Murray Valley (25 miles on either side the river), and also declare that
no citrus trees or fruit shall be removed between the areas described
unless examined by an inspector and declared free from red scale
(Aspidiotus coccimeus), and all such trees or fruit must be despatched
in new cases or packages. Such consignments on arrival at their
destination are to be re-examined by an inspector before delivery to the
consignee.
Important Amendments to Codling-moth Regulations. Fruit Removal
Regulations (Proclamation No. 20 of 1913).—Agric. Dept.
of Union of S. Africa, Pretoria, no. 16, 6th May 1913, 10 pp.
By Proclamation 20 of 1913, Proclamation No. 38, dated the 22nd
February 1912, is superseded and repealed. The regulations applying
to vines, grapes and mango trees are unaltered, while the change with
84
respect to apples, pears and quinces, is that of omitting a number of
districts from the area of the Cape Province, into which the removal
of these fruits has been prohibited for the past seven years. Care is
necessary to avoid the removal of prohibited fruit into “ protected ”
portions of the Union, and every wrongful removal is to be reported
to the Magistrate of the district in which the offence occurred, and the
consigner and consignee may both be punished. The protected areas
are enumerated, and removals are not allowed from one protected
area into another. The removal of boxes, etc., that have been used
for the storage or conveyance of apples, pears,and quinces into areas
into which the removal of these fruits is prohibited is illegal. The
return into a protected area of boxes, etc., that have been used for the
conveyance of any of the fruits named, to any place outside of that
area is not allowed. It is also illegal to use second-hand apple-barrels,
pear-boxes, etc., for the sending of any produce into a protected area.
Travellers by train and cart would be violating the restrictions if they
took any prohibited fruit into a protected area. The removal of the
restricted articles through a protected area in direct transit by rail or
post from a place outside of it to a place outside of it, is allowed. The
object of the regulations is to check the spread of codling-moth into
parts of the Union which are still supposed to be free from this pest,
and which are considered generally suitable for the culture of apples or
pears. The contraction of the protected Cape area was prompted by
the presence of the pest in many places within the parts now omitted
from the protected area. The presence of the pest, to a very small
extent, is suspected in many places within the still protected areas,
and as a check on its spread from sources within, the Government
issued Notice 366 of 1912. The effectiveness of these various measures.
in retarding the spread of the codling moth will depend to a great
extent on the alertness of parties within the protected regions in
detecting and reporting any infringements. Besides repealing
Proclamation No. 38 of 1912, Proclamation 20 of 1913 also announces
certain restrictions as to the removal of grape vine, virginia creeper,
ampelopsis or other plant of the natural order, Vitaceae, or any living
portion (except seed), or fresh food of any such plant, and of any mango
trees or any portion thereof (except the fruit), and of apple, pear or
quince fruit in its fresh state. The areas protected and not protected
in respect of these different fruits are set out, as also the various lines.
of railway along which the transit of the plants and fruit mentioned
in the amendment, may or may not be carried.
FuLLER (C.). The Wattle Bagworm.—Agric. JI. of Umon of S. Africa,
Pretoria, vi, no. 2, Aug. 1913, pp. 198-217, 9 pl.
The present paper is a continuation of that which appeared in Vol.
5, No. 6 of the Agricultural Journal of the Union of S. Africa [see this.
Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 303.] The life-history of the wattle bagworm
(Chalioides junodi, Heylaerts) is given. The male moths begin to
emerge, and the females become adult during July. In August egg-
laying begins, and towards the middle of the month the young larvae
appear. By September egg-laying is finished, the adult moths die off,
and the main brood of young emerge from the maternal bags. In the
| 85
months from October to February the larvae feed and grow, the
greatest damage being done from November to January. In March
the larvae discontinue feeding and prepare to pupate, the males first,
and later the females; pupation occurs during April, May and
June. Although in the caterpillar stage no difference between male
and female is evident, the pupae differ markedly. The adult female
is a segmented spindle-shaped organism, bearing no resemblance to a
moth, having neither wings nor legs. She never leaves her bag, and
in this some 600 eggs are laid, in a mass of wax-like secretion mixed
with scales.
Shortly after the eggs hatch, the young larva, instead of beginning
at once to feed, drops from the base of the bag, supported by a gossa-
mer strand, and sways about in the air, until it comes in contact with
some object on a lower plane; it then ascends its strand again and
remains upon it for a day or two, making no attempt to feed, however
near food may be. The author suggests that this is a device to aid in
the dispersal of the species; birds flying through plantations would
be apt to pick up on their beaks, feet or feathers, the glutinous gossa-
mer threads to which the insects are attached, and the insects would
thus be deposited in another locality. This habit of the larvae may
account for their spread by the wind, which would transport the leaves
to which the threads are attached.
Warren (H.). On the Economic Value of Wild Birds.— Agric. Jl. of
S. Africa, Pretoria, vi, no. 3, Sept. 1913, pp. 461-465.
The author points out the immense value of birds as destroyers of
injurious insects, ticks, etc., and contends that the benefits they con-
_ fer upon the stock-farmer and agriculturist, far outweigh the relatively
small amount of damage they may do, except in the case of a few species.
He then mentions a number of useful South African birds, giving a
general indication of the nature of their food. It is pointed out that
m many parts of South Africa the lack of cover and widespread grass
fires are very prejudicial to bird-life; and farmers are urged to pay
some attention to the needs of birds. Strips of bush should be
reserved as cover, and in open country trees should be planted in the
vicinity of cultivated lands, so as to furnish suitable breeding places ;
for it is when birds are feeding their young that they are specially
active in destroying insects.
Lounspury (C. P.). Pernicious Scale—Agric. Jl. of S. Africa,
Pretoria, no. 4, Oct. 1913, vi, pp. 662-670.
It is now a little more than two years ago that Pernicious (San José)
‘Scale, which has the reputation of being the most serious of all the
numerous scale pests of deciduous fruit trees anywhere in the world,
was discovered to be present in South Africa. The Government at
first decided to attempt the eradication of the new pest by burning
infested trees and plants. Owing to the immensity and cost of the
undertaking, the Government, in April 1912, decided to leave the
eradication or suppression of the pest on any particular property to
the enterprise of the occupier or owner. The dissemination of the
pest was due wholly, or in large part, to purchases of trees from one
86
nursery at Pretoria and one at Pietermaritzburg, and had been going”
on at least since 1906. The response of the occupiers to the appeal
for suppressive action was, on the whole, gratifying, but many took no
action at all, and others sprayed to little effect, probably owing to
slovenly application. lLime-sulphur wash and “ Scalecide” have
both proved highly efficient as spraying fluids. One thorough spray-
ing every winter is evidently all that is required to prevent damage
to a tree; but two or three thorough sprayings in one winter may be
necessary to get the pest well under control in the case of trees which
have been allowed to become badly infested by neglect in one or more
years. The measures that the Government is applying to prevent
the rapid dissemination of the insect are chiefly those relative to
nurseries and plant traffic, intended to check the spread of plant pests
in general. Special instructions were given to railway and postal
officials, who send non-certificated plants to an Agricultural Depart-
ment plant-inspector for examination before they are forwarded for
delivery. Special legislation applies to Pretoria, it being illegal to
remove any plants from the town without the written permission of
the Department of Agriculture. It is also illegal to remove any
woody plants from a property known to be infested with the insect
anywhere in the country. A general inspection was made between
August 1911 and April 1912, and the towns and places where the pest
was found are given, and in a general way, the position in July 1913.
The towns and places inspected are in the Transvaal, Orange Free
State and Natal.
MartTEtui (G.). La lotta naturale contro il Crisomfalo (Bianea-rossa),
gli Afidi (Formichedda), la Mosca (Verme) delle arance, delle
pesche ecc. e la Mosca (Verme) delle olive. [Use of natural
enemies against Chrysomphalus, Aphididae, the Mediterranean ~
Fruit Fly and the Olive Fly.|—Guorn. Agric. Meridionale, Messina,
vi, nos. 8-9, Aug.—Sept. 1913, pp. 137-142.
The successful introduction of Novis cardinalis against Icerya
purchasi, Mask., in the province of Messina and elsewhere, and the
possibility of obtaining good results with parasites of other injurious
insects led the Cattedra ambulante d’Agricoltura in Messina to intro-
duce as many of such enemies as possible. It is due to F. Silvestri
that the Coccinellids, Rhizobius lophantae, R. ventralis and Orcus
chalybaeus, which prey upon Chrysomphalus and other injurious Coccids,
and Hippodamia convergens, an enemy of aphids, have been imported.
He also brought two other parasites: Galesus silvestru, Kief. and
Dirhinus giffardi, Silv., into Italy to combat the Mediterranean fruit fly,
and then found that they would breed in the olive fly. It is therefore
hoped that these parasites will be efficient against both these pests in
peach, orange, and olive-growing districts where the soil is loose and
sandy. As yet it is not known whether the parasites will become
acclimatised, but from the Naples district, where some of them were
introduced some time ago, the reports are most satisfactory.
Battovu (H. A.). Report on the prevalence of some Pests and Diseases
in the West Indies during 1912.— West. Ind. Bull., Barbados, xiii,
no. 4, 22nd Sept. 1913, pp. 333-357.
The information presented in this report covers most of the
87
agricultural pests and diseases in the West Indies. An easy form of
reference is provided by tables showing the observations of their
occurrence and non-occurrence. The insect pests referred to are as
follows :—
Cacao pests :—Thrips (Heliothrips rubrocinctus, Giard), noticed in
Grenada, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Dominica, St. Kitts; cacao beetle
(Stirastoma depressum, L.), in Grenada; _ scale-insects and mealy bugs
in Grenada, Dominica, St. Kitts, Virgin Islands; the greengrass bug
(Nezara viridula, L.), in Grenada; Aphis in Nevis.
Coconut pests :—Weevil (Rhynchophorus palmarum, L.) and white fly
(Aleyrodicus cocois, Curtis), in St. Vincent; coconut snow
scale (Diaspis boisduvali, Sign.), glassy star scale (Vinsonia
stellifera, Westw.), Bourbon aspidiotus (Aspidiotus destructor),
coconut mealy bug (Pseudococcus nipae, Mask.), and green scale
(Coccus viridis, Green) in Grenada, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Antigua,
St. Kitts, Nevis, Virgin Islands ;_ termites in Nevis.
Indian corn pests :—Corn ear worms (Chloridea obsoleta, F., and
Laphygma frugiperda, 8. and A.), in St. Vincent, Antigua, St. Kitts,
Nevis, Virgin Islands; hard-back grubs (Lachnosterna), in Antigua.
The ripening heads of guinea-corn were attacked by caterpillars (not
described) in Montserrat.
Cotton pests :—The cotton worm (Alabama argillacea, Hb.), noticed
in St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Montserrat, Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Virgin
Islands; the boll worm (Chloridea obsoleta, F.) and Laphygma
frugiperda, S. and A., in Antigua; the cotton stainers (Dysdercus
andreae, L., and D. delauneyi, Leth.), in Grenada, St. Vincent, St.
Lucia, Montserrat, Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Virgin Islands. Scale-
insects (Saissetia nigra, Nietn., and Henuchionaspis minor, Mask.), in
Grenada, St. Vincent, Antigua, Nevis, Virgin Islands; the flower-bud
maggot (Contaruma gossypi, Felt), in Montserrat and Antigua; the
leaf-blister mite (Hriophyes gossypu, Banks), in St. Vincent, St. Lucia,
Montserrat, Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Virgin Islands; a hard-back
beetle (Cyclocephala dimidiata) in Grenada ;_ a small bronze beetle and
a bug (Edessa meditabunda), in St. Vincent; cotton aphis (Aphis
gossypii, Glover), in Montserrat, Antigua and Nevis.
Pests of green dressings :—Pigeon peas were attacked by the beetles
Bruchus chinensis and B. quadrimaculatus, in Dominica ; a caterpillar
(known locally as the Bengal bean worm) attacked horse beans in
Montserrat and cowpeas in Antigua; a weevil (Hxophthalmus
esurvens, Boh.) was found on pigeon peas in Antigua, where Barbuda
beans were infested by an aphis.
Pests of limes and other citrus trees :—Scale-insects, especially
Coccus viridis, Green, are still doing much damage in St. Vincent ;
all the commoner kinds occurred in St. Lucia, the green scale (C. viridis)
and the snow scale (Chionaspis citri, Comst.) being the most trouble-
some. One or two outbreaks of scale-insects were reported from
Dominica; the purple scale (Lepidosaphes beckui, Newm.) and the
green scale were noticed in Montserrat, where for the first time limes
were seriously attacked by the West Indian red scale (Chrysomphalus
aurantu, Mask.). The lantana bug (Ortheza insignis, Douglas) is very
scarce in Montserrat; scales were common in Antigua; they are
abundant wherever there are lime trees in St. Kitts; green, .purple
and snow scales occurred in Nevis; white scale and purple scale in
88
the Virgin Islands. The bark-borer (Leptostylus praemorsus, F.) was
noticed in St. Lucia; the twig-borer (Hlaphidion mite, Newm.), in
Antigua; the fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata, Wied.), in Dominica.
Sugar-cane pests :—The moth borer (Diatraea saccharalis, ¥.) noticed
in Grenada, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis; the weevil-borer
(Metamasius sericeus, Oliv.), in St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Kitts; the
root-borer (? Hxophthalmus esuriens), in St. Lucia, St. Kitts ; termites
in’ St. Kitts; hard-back grubs (Lachnosterna spp.), in Antigua, St.
Kitts, Virgin Islands.
Sweet potato pests :—Horn-worms (Protoparce cingulata, F.), in
Antigua and Virgin Islands; the scarabee (Cryptorhynchus batatae,
Waterh.), in Grenada and St. Kitts; the red spider (Tetranychus
telarvus, L.), in St. Lucia, Antigua, and Nevis; a white fly (species
unknown), in Grenada.
Yam pests :—The yam scale (Asprdiotus hartw), in Grenada; the
scale that occurs on the stored tubers was observed in St. Kitts.
It is stated that the canes on one estate—the locality of which is
not given—were infested with shot-borer, wherever the attacks of
rind fungus, and other fungus diseases occurred severely. Grasshoppers
are a great pest in many districts, especially in dry localities, and flocks
of guinea-fowl are successfully kept for the purpose of controlling
them.
Regarding parasites of injurious insects, it is stated that Cephalo-
sportum fungus has done good work on the mango shield-scale in
Grenada, and Sphaerostilbe has increased rapidly in the St. David’s
district, Grenada. In St. Vincent and St. Kitts, Chalcis sp. and the
Jack Spaniard wasp (Polistes annularis) control the cotton worm to a
noticeable extent, and planters are encouraging the wasps by erecting
rough shelters for them in or near the cotton fields. The white-headed,
black-headed, and red-headed fungi parasitised the scales on lime trees
in St. Lucia, and, although not so general, the buff shield-scale fungus
was well established in some districts. In Antigua, parasitic fungi on
scale-insects are much more common than was realised some time ago,
Lady-birds are increasing on some lime plantations.
MacDovucatt (R. §.). The Large Narcissus Bulb Fly (Merodon
equestris, Fab.)—Jl. Board Agric., London, xx, no. 7, Oct. 1913,
pp. 594-599, 2 figs.
The narcissus fly, first recorded in England in 1869, is responsible for
a great destruction of narcissus bulbs in different parts of the country.
In addition to bulbs of the genus Narcissus, the larva has been
found in bulbs of Amaryllis (Adams), Habranthus (Chittenden),
Vallota (Chittenden and Theobald), Eurycles (McLachlan), Liles
(Wilks), and Galtonia (Theobald). Theobald found the larvae at work
(at Wye and in Devon) in the bulbs of the Wild Hyacinth (Scilla
nutans), and, partly on this, bases his opinion that Merodon equestris is
native to England. The larvae tunnels and feeds in the bulb, which
may be so spoiled that it rots away completely. In other cases flowers
and weakened plants may be produced, but no new bulbs. It is often
difficult to say without opening the bulb that a Merodon grub is present
within, but in typical cases the infestation can be recognised by the
bulb “ giving ”’ on being squeezed between the finger and thumb.
89
Treatment :—(1) Failing bulbs and plants should be removed from
the beds and destroyed; (2) destruction of all decayed and infested
bulbs at the time of lifting and also, especially in case of importation,
before planting; in daffodil-growing grounds, where some years ago
Merodon was proving a great pest, the persistent examination for,
and destruction of, sickly bulbs has resulted in its being the rarest
occurrence now to find a Merodon; (3) sifting the surface layers of
the soil, where this is practicable, for pupae; in Holland the surface
layers are searched about the time that the plants are coming into
flower; (4) steeping the bulbs in water for from two to eight days,
in order to drive out and drown the larvae ; a number of experiments
show that while good results may follow, there are failures also; (5)
catching the flies with hand-nets ;_ this is a valuable measure.
Theobald, in his second British Museum Report (1904), recorded
the finding in bulbs of narcissus of another Syrphid larva, which proved
to be Eumerus strigatus, Fall. Itinfests onions, shalots and the bulbs of
the hyacinth, either alone or along with Merodon. A number of
Eumerus larvae may be present in asingle bulb. Infested bulbs become
discoloured, and rot away. The author has found numbers of Sciara
larvae in bulbs of Glory of Leiden and Duchess of Westminster, and has
at different times bred species of several genera of MyCETOPHILIDAE
from decaying bulbs.
PicarD (F.). Le Cleonus mendicus et le Inxus scabricollis, Charancons
nuisibles 4 la Betterave dans le midi de la France. [Cleonus
(Temnorrhinus) mendicus and LInxus scabricollis, Weevil Pests of
Beetroot in the South of France.|—Bull. Soc. d Etude et de
Vulgarisation Zool. Agric., Bordeaux, xu, no. 5, Oct. 1913, pp. 129-
137, 1 pl.
Though not so largely grown as in the North of France, beetroot is
also cultivated in the Mediterranean region, where its pests are
generally of species different from those found in the northern pro-
vinces. Though the black aphis (Aphis euonymi, F.), and the beet fly
(Pegomia hyoscyami, Meig.) occur nearly everywhere, the flea-beetle
(Chaetocnema tibialis, lig.) and the beet moth (Phthorimaea ocellatella,
Boyd) become commoner as one advances southwards. The weevils,
Temnorrhinus mendicus, Gyl., Bothynoderes punctiventris, Germ., and
fixus scabricollis, Boh., are exclusively southern species. Valéry
Mayet has studied 7. mendicus thoroughly, but Lixus scabricollis and
its habits are nearly unknown. After emerging in autumn the adult
Temnorrhinus passes the winter underground and appears in April or
May. The date of its appearance depends solely on climatic conditions,
and thus all the beet fields are invaded simultaneously. If alternate
crops are grown the weevils travel immediately to the new ground,
guided apparently by their sense of smell. The eggs are laid in the
ground near the collar of the plants, and by the end of May almost
every adult is dead. Because of its earthy colour and its habit of
remaining under clods or close to the plant the insect is not always
noticed by cultivators, and even a severe infestation can only be
detected by a careful examination. On hatching, the larva tunnels
the surface of the young root. Later on the hole is increased in size,
but is not made deeper. The work tends downwards, and only the
(C11) C
90
underground portion of the root is attacked. At the end of September
many larvae are still present in the roots, but pupae and some adults
also are to be found. The latter either remain in the pupal chamber
or emerge into the open. On warm sunny days they may be seen
feeding on the leaves. Collectors consider 7’. mendicus to be rare, but it
fairly overruns the beet-fields of the Agricultural School at Montpellier
in Hérault. In 1913 all the roots there had been attacked. The
necessity for a mild climate and compact clay soil limits its spread, for
beetroot can only be successfully grown in a loose deep soil. Wherever
Temnorrhinus finds its favourite plant under the above conditions, it
speedily develops into a terrible pest. In Russia and Hungary
B. punctiventris and B. betavorus, Chev., are only too well known.
The former is also a southern species, but is rare in Hérault, as it
requires a sandy soil. Many Cleonids living on Salsolaceae will attack
beetroot. Thus Temnorrhinus brevirostris, Gyl., is a species found
on the Mediterranean coast on Kelp (Salsola) and on Atriplex. So far
it has not been found on beetroot, but Chromoderus fasciatus, Miill.,
(albidus, F.), which is common on Atriplex, Chenopodium, Salsola, etc.,
has been reported as a beet pest in Central Europe. Though very
abundant in Hérault, the author has not observed it in the beet-fields
there. As regards Cleonus prger, Scop. (sulcvrostris, L.) most writers.
notice it as a beet pest, but one of little importance. Indeed the
author believes it not to besuch. Temnorrhinus has few enemies; no
Hymenopterous parasite is known, but Sphegids of the genus Cerceris
prey on it, though not to any great extent. In pursuing his.
investigations on Cocobacillz as insect parasites the author found one
of these bacteria in the larvae of 7. mendicus, which he provisionally
named Bacillus cleont. It remains to be seen whether it differs
specifically from Bacillus cajae discovered in Arctia caja by G. R. Blane
and the author.
When the larvae have penetrated into the root the damage is past
remedy. The adults must be destroyed when feeding, prior to.
oviposition. Valéry Mayet recommended arsenicals, and especially
a solution of 5 oz. sodium arsenite in 20 gals. of water, to which 2 lb.
of flour had been added to make it adhere. The ordinary arsenate of
lead sprays may be used also. Spraying must be done before.
oviposition takes place, and beetroot sprayed in April can be fed to.
cattle in October without any danger whatever.
Inzus scabricollis, Boh., is practically of no economic importance.
It is parasitised by a Braconid of a species as yet unknown, but which
the author will describe shortly. LZ. ascanw, L., and L. gunci, Dahl.,
have long been known as beet-feeders, but they also seem of little
importance. They are sometimes found on spinach.
Feytaup (J.). Les Hémérobes ou Chrysopes [Chrysopa.|—Bull. Soc..
d Etude et de Vulgarisation Zool. Agric., Bordeaux, xii, no. 5, Oct.
1913, pp. 1388-148, 3 figs.
The Chrysopa most common in France are C. vulgaris, Schn., C. perla,.
L., C. septempunctata, Wesm., and C. aspersa, Wesm. C. vulgaris,
which may be taken as a type, 1s pre-eminently carnivorous. Already
known as a destroyer of Aphids, the perfect insect has been also
observed killing the caterpillars of Polychrosis botrana. The egg is.
91
attached to a stem about 6 or 7 mm. long, which the female produces
prior to laying. The larva is very agile and even more voracious than
the adult. Chrysopa are mostly known as enemies of aphids, but
according to Schneider they also prey on the larvae of Muscidae and
Coleoptera. In the vineyards, Chrysopa also attacks Phylloxera
in its stages above ground, and here again the larva is the chief
destroyer. Fuschini has calculated that one larva can devour about
6,000 eggs, besides causing the indirect destruction of those contained
in the ovaries of the female. The larvae of Nephopteryx divisella, Dp.,
and Hylotoma rosae, F., also fall a prey to Chrysopa. C. vulgaris has
been described as an enemy of the Vine Tortrix (‘“‘ Pyrale”’ de la vigne)
(Oenophthira pillervana, Schiff.) In 1911, the author reported an
abundance of Chrysopa in the south-eastern vineyards, which had
been invaded by the Microlepidoptera of the vine, and showed clearly
that Clysia ambiguella, Hb., and Polychrosis botrana, Schiff., were
destroyed by Chrysopa larvae, and even by the adults. Experiments
conducted in 1913 showed that a single larva could eat about 60
P. lychrosis caterpillars, at the rate of 3 or 4a day. The agriculturist
should therefore learn to know and protect so helpful an auxiliary.
The author very strongly recommends that all traps baited for the
moths of Polychrosis be emptied and cleaned immediately they cease
to be useful, as Chrysopa are also taken in them. Indeed it has been
found that they capture Chrysopa more often and in larger numbers
than Polychrosis, thus doing a great deal of harm. Birds, especially
night-birds, and bats are great enemies of the perfect insect, and
Syrphid larvae have been seen to destroy Chrysopa larvae. Hemiteles
aestwalis, Gr., Helorus anomalipes Pz., and Microgaster perlae, are all
parasites of Chrysopa larvae, and Telenomus acrobates, Giard, para-
sitises their eggs. A bibliography of 18 works completes the paper.
Cacoecia costana.— Bull. Soc. d Etude et de Vulgarisation Zool. Agric.,
Bordeaux, xii, no. 5, Oct. 1913, pp. 156-157.
In an editorial note mention is made of the occasional ravages of
Tortrix (Cacoecia) costana in vineyards. Henri Kehrig (Feuille vinicole
de la Gironde, 22nd May 1890, and Bull. Soc. de Zoologie Agric.,
Dec. 1911), Dr. Schwangart (Mitt. d. deutschen Weinbau-Vereim, June
1911), and F. Picard (Progres Agricole, 5th May 1912), have reported
this pest in the Gironde, the Palatinate, and in Camargue.
Quarantine Regulations on Shipment into Georgia of Articles from
Territory Infested with Mexican Cotton Boll Weevil.—Georgia
State Bd. Entom., Atlanta, Cire. no. 13, Oct. 1913.
At a recent meeting of the State Board of Entomology, the follow-
ing regulations were adopted concerning shipments from sections of
the country infested with Mexican cotton boll weevil. Restrictions
were placed on the following articles when originating in infested
areas :—(1) Seed cotton; (2) cotton seed; (3) seed cotton sacks,
cotton seed sacks, cotton pickers’ sacks which have been used within
eight months ; (4) cotton seed hulls, between Ist Aug. and 30th Dec. ;
(C11) c2
92
(5) Spanish moss and corn in shuck, or shucks removed from corn,
between Ist Oct. and 30th June; (6) household goods containing any
of the foregoing articles, during the period of quarantine applying to
each ; (7) living weevils in the possession of any person outside of the
infested territory, except a qualified entomologist. Under certain
conditions restricted articles can be shipped from uninfested sections
of States in which boll weevil occurs.
No restrictions were placed on the following articles :—(1) Bales of
cotton, flat or compressed, with no restrictions as to season; (2) lin-
ters and loose cotton lint ; (3) cotton seed meal, cake and oil ; (4) corn,
shelled or shucked, or with shucks removed, oats or any other seed
except cotton seed ; (5) cotton seed shown by affidavit to have been
sacked continuously for nine months or more; (6) cotton seed for
planting purposes only, after fumigating with carbon bisulphide by
competent entomologist ; (7) hay ; (8) empty freight cars.
VaysstzrE (P.). Cochenilles nouvelles de l’Afrique francaise [New
Coccids from French Africa.}—-Rev. Phytopath. appliquée, Paris,
1, no. 9, 5th Oct. 1913, p. 124.
A short description is given of Mytilaspis coccomytibus dispar, ssp.
nov. and Diaspis taxicola, sp. nov. The former was found in large
numbers on a branch of manioc in Madagascar, while the latter was
collected on Taxus baccata in the Atlas of Blidah (Algeria).
CHITTENDEN (F. H.). The Florida Fern Caterpillar.—U.S. Dept. Agrvc.,
Bur. Entom. Washington, Bull. 125, 29th Oct. 1918, 11 pp., 1 fig.
The fern caterpillar, Hriopus floridensis, is a native of Florida and
tropical America, but is extending north, causing damage in green-
houses in Columbia, Illinois, and Ohio. It has also been reported
in Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Cuba,
Haiti, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Venezuela, British Guiana, Brazil, and
Trinidad. It is restricted to ferns, and appears to destroy more than
it requires for food, cutting plants entirely bare and attacking each
new leaf as it appears. Though not strictly a nocturnal feeder, it
shuns bright light, and is most often found feeding exposed in early
morning. Treatment of this pest is not easy. In one case a spray of
a strong decoction of hellebore was used; this scalded the foliage, —
causing many plants to die. A bait of poisoned bran and molasses was
tried, but the caterpillars preferred the ferns. Fumigation with
carbon bisulphide was of no avail. Lead arsenate when used in a
solution strong enough to kill the caterpillars is said to leave a white
deposit, which destroys the commercial value of the fern. A spray of
Paris green, strong enough to kill the caterpillars, burns the foliage.
Paris green properly mixed with Bordeaux mixture should not produce
this effect. Hydrocyanic-acid gas fumigation is also suggested for use
when the eggs are hatching and during moults. It seems that hand-
picking, though laborious, is most successful, one of the best methods
consisting in shaking the plants over the ground and trampling on the
caterpillars as they fall. Ichneumon extrematis, Cress., Sagarits sp.,
and a Tachinid fly have been observed attacking this caterpillar. .
93
ParKER (W.). A sealed Paper Carton to protect Cereals from insect
__attack.—U.S. Dept. Agric., Washington, Bull. 15, 16th Oct. 1913,
8 pp. 8 figs.
The injury done by insects to packed cereals causes a financial loss
much greater than most millers suppose. Examination of infested
packages showed that infestation usually commenced where there was
a hole in the package; carefully sealed packages appeared intact.
The more important insects attacking stored cereal products are the
Indian-meal moth (Plodia interpunctella, Hiibn), the Mediterranean
flour moth (Hphestia kuehniella, Zell.), the meal snout-moth (Pyralis
farimalis, L.), the saw-toothed grain beetle (Silvanus surinamensis, L.),
the confused flour beetle (Lribolium confuswm, Duv.), the granary
weevil (Calandra granaria, L.), and the rice weevil (C. oryzae, L.).
The cereal is sterilised prior to being packed, and when insects are found
in packages, the eggs, larvae, or adults have gained access to the cereal
after, or shortly before, the cereal was packed. In an experiment
to test the efficiency of a cheap sealed carton, a cereal was sterilised
and placed in sterilised packages. Had any insects or eggs been in the
packet, the temperature of 180° F. used for sterilisation of the cereal
would, undoubtedly, have killed them. The packages were closed by
glueing the ends, but some were covered with label paper, so that there
were no openings. Some labelled and some unlabelled packages were
placed in boxes with flour badly infested by the confused flour beetle.
Tables of the results of the experiment show the label to be efficient
in preventing insects entering the cartons. Infestation may take place
in the cereal elevator leading from the steriliser to the packing room or
in the grocer’s storeroom. In drying non-flaky cereals a sterile chute
with baffles, through which hot dry air is blown, would be effective.
In the case of flaky cereals, a belt-elevator is necessary, but this can be
inclosed and the hot air used as before. Both elevators should be so
constructed, that they can be readily sterilised with air at a temperature
above 180° F. The sealed carton may be made of a stiff cardboard.
The printed label should be of three pieces, two ends which lap over the
edges and extend down the side, and a side piece. Care must be taken
to seal the ends of the carton properly before applying the label.
Another package has been suggested, namely, the placing of a sealed
paper bag inside an ordinary carton. This has proved to be no better
than the old-style packages. In a large flour mill in California, 160 lb.
steam is used as a source of heat, and a carrier eight feet long, with its
load of cereal, can be heated to 180° F. in two minutes, by this means,
without difficulty.
CHITTENDEN (F. H.). The Rose Slug-Caterpillar.—U.S. Dept. Agric.,
Bur. Entom., Washington, Bull. 124, 31st Oct. 1913, 9 pp. 1 fig.
It is only within comparatively recent years that the slug-like
eaterpillar, Huclea indetermina, Boisd., has been known to injure the
rose, though the larvae appear to have been known since 1797.
Synonyms of EF. indetermina are Callochroa viridis, Reak., C. vernata,
Pack., and Parsa chloris, Grote. It is not a common species, and as
it is of interest to rose-growers and to nurserymen, the author gives
illustrations and a brief description of it. The larva has been observed
94
on Rosa spp., Prunus spp., Quercus spp., Castanea dentata, Carya spp.,
Asimina triloba, Myrica cerifera, Cornus florida, plum, apple and pear.
It feeds on the edges of the leaves. The eggs, which are deposited on
the underside of the leaf, hatch after about nine days. The larvae
mature about the middle of September, passing through eight or nine
stages, and have stinging spines. If only a few rose-bushes or young
trees are attacked, handpicking will control this insect, precaution
being taken to use a glove. A spray of Paris green or arsenate of lead
may be applied.
Huarp (V. A.). Rapport de ’entomologiste du Ministére de l Agricul-
ture de la Province de Quebec pour l’année 1912-13. [Report of
the Entomologist of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Province
of Quebec for the year 1912-1913.]—Quebec, 24th Oct. 1913,
15 pp., 5 figs.
The tent-caterpillars were the most important pests of the year.
Malacosoma americana, F., chiefly attacks orchards and M. disstria, Hb., .
forests. The larvae of both soon strip a tree of its leaves. While it is
evidently impracticable to prevent this destruction in the case of
forest trees, damage in orchards can be almost entirely prevented.
The eggs are easily seen on the bare branches in winter, and nearly
all may be collected and burnt. Speaking generally, all insectivorous
birds should be protected. The services of a sparrow are valued at
12 shillings a year in France, and must be worth more in the Province of
Quebec. Banding is useful. Where the caterpillars emerge in the
tent they may be taken and burnt, or a petrol torch may be used.
Spraying the infested parts will destroy those caterpillars which have
just hatched out. The spray is made up of | lb. Paris green in 160 gals.
water, or 2 lb. arsenate of lead in 40 gals. of water.
In 1913 the San José Scale was observed for the first time in the
Province on a young service tree, which was destroyed without delay.
The woolly aphis Eriosoma (Schizoneura) lanigerum was observed in three
places, but only a few trees were infested and instructions were given
for the affected branches to be burnt. In a garden at Montcalmville,
near Quebec, the Oyster-Shell Bark-Louse (Mytilaspis pomorum) was
observed. The New York Plum Scale (Lecaniwm prunastri) was
reported to be present in orchards of the county of Islet. In con-
clusion, the author suggests provincial legislation on three points :
(1) To require an annual inspection by the Entomological Bureau of
the Ministry of Agriculture of all those nurseries in the Province which
deal in plants and fruits; (2) to give the inspector power to destroy
plants infested by dangerous diseases or to order suitable treatment ;
(3) to forbid nursérymen to distribute their products unless they hold
the current year’s certificate from the Entomologist certifying that
their nurseries are free from parasitic disease or insect pests.
Kine (H. H.). On the use of Poison in the Control of Locusts in the
Anglo-Egyptian Sudan.—Cavro Scientific J1., Alexandria, vu, no. 86,
Nov. 1913, pp. 251-254.
The species of migratory locust most common in the Anglo-Egyptian
Sudan is Acridiwm (Schistocerca) peregrinum, Oliv. The young locusts
95
appear after rain, and feed during the morning and evening. The
methods of controlling locusts which have been adopted in the Sudan
include the following: (1) Collection and destruction of eggs and
hoppers; these methods need a large amount of labour and the
collecting of eggs may be exceedingly arduous; (2) scaring away of
adults by noises; (3) the use of bacteria, as Coccobacillus acridiorum,
d Herelle, and the locust fungus, Empusa grylli; these have proved
of little help in the control of locusts.
During 1907, the author tested various other methods, among them
poisoned bait. This bait consisted of fresh, green grass, finely chopped
and soaked in a solution of 1 lb. arsenite of soda and 4-11 lb. treacle in
12 gallons water. This bait was scattered thinly either in front of the
swarm while it was moving and feeding or under the shrubs in which
the hoppers were roosting. The bait was readily devoured when the
treacle was present in the proportion of 4 |b. to 12 gallons of water,
but the hoppers were attracted still more when the proportion of the
treacle was increased. A swarm fed with poisoned bait at about 7 a.m.
would all be dead the following morning. Animals were not allowed
to graze over the area treated for six days. The use of arsenite of soda
in the control of locusts saves an enormous amount of labour, and the
entire swarm is destroyed. The risk to cattle and other grazing
animals, with ordinary precautions, is infinitesimal.
Kersuaw (J. C.). Recommendations for dealing with the Froghopper.
—Dept. Agric. Trinidad and Tabago, Special Cire. no. 9, 1st Dec.
1913, 10 pp.
Under artificial conditions the vermilion egg-parasite, Oligosita
graulti, Cwf., parasitised 5 to 6 per cent. of froghopper eggs. After
careful examination the author concludes that in nature the percentage
is between 5 and 10 per cent. in the most favourable localities, with an
average below 5 per cent. This parasite is, therefore, not worth con-
sideration, and former recommendations for dealing with trash with
regard to it are cancelled.
The Syrphid fly [Salpingogaster nigra, Schiner] is the chief check on
the multiplication of the froghopper in Trinidad. Unfortunately, it
usually appears in numbers only on the later broods. Its larvae are
very voracious, and in most localities nymphs are scarce after the wet
season, and the Syrphid larvae will probably either starve or destroy
one another. Many female froghopper adults escape all enemies, and
produce the early broods in the ensuing season, when there are but few
Syrphids about. The author thinks it would be well worth trying to
breed the Syrphid on through the dry season, in order to have a
supply ready to distribute on any well-marked early broods of frog-
hoppers. About 300 nymphs per day are required to feed 100 Syrphid
larvae, but nymphs of Tomaspis pubescens can be procured in the dry
season, and a supply of the Syrphid could be kept up in a large cage
or enclosure, preferably erected over a channel or drain with suitable
grass already growing there. A light rough construction would serve
the purpose. The Syrphid will copulate and breed in a large and
suitable cage. Then a few adult Syrphids and a few maggots could be
liberated on early froghopper broods, wherever they occurred in
numbers.
96
The author is not in favour of destroying the nymphs by ramming,
but highly approves of early broods being collected by hand. The
crushing of adults of early broods in young cane by squeezing the leaf
sheaths where they congregate is also recommended. Possibly this
plan would be even more effective than using the kerosene-lysol
emulsion, but every efficient method should be used against the early
broods, because it is impossible to do much against the enormous later
ones. All abandoned land and grass fields near cane should be grazed
or put under cover crops. The cattle disturb the froghopper so much,
that it avoids these fields. Cutting the grass is useless. Regarding
cane-trash, the author now thinks it probable that (where trash cannot
be removed to the cattle pens) the best plan would be to keep it in a
few large piles (boucans), rather than long beds between the rows of
cane, provided that these boucans could be turned right over, and the
nymphs below destroyed. As regards the destruction of adult frog-
hoppers, trap lights are about the only method at present of any value
at all, when the insects appear in great swarms. The following catches
were made on badly “blighted” fields during September 1913:
Night of 5th September, 24 lamps, 56,900 froghoppers ; 10th Septem-
ber, 12 lamps, 23,420; 21st September, 72 lamps, 58,363. These were
only the largest of many catches at lights. The hurricane lamps were
placed about 20 to 25 feet apart, 2.e., one opposite the end of each
cane bed along the trace, and stood in trays about 2 feet square, with
a ledge to retain the water and film of kerosene, or a mess of molasses.
They should also be placed where there is any open space among the
canes.
Summarised briefly, the author’s recommendations are :—(1) That
a search be made for an efficient egg- or adult-parasite of the frog-
hopper, though it is very unlikely that any will be procured in islands
near Trinidad, or any adjacent part of the mainland; (2) that mean-
while every effort should be made to get the Syrphid on the early
broods of froghopper; (3) abandoned lands adjacent to cane-fields to
be either put under a cover crop or grazed ;_ grass “ traces” to be hoed
and the rubbish taken to the cattle pens, especially just before the
wet season; (4) all trash should be removed to the pens, and not
returned to the fields till well broken up and sodden, and especially
the trash of the two or three rows of cane nearest to traces or grass land
just before the wet season; (5) after the appearance of early broods
of froghopper nymphs they should be destroyed by kerosene-lysol
emulsion or by squeezing the leaf-sheaths, whichever proves the quicker
and more effective; (6) the later large swarms of adults should be
destroyed as far as possible by trap-lights.
A grasshopper (Xtphidium sp.) is very common in grass lands, and
destroys froghoppers along with other insects. It is considered to be
X. varvpenne. Next to the Syrphid, however, the author holds spiders
to be the most effective natural enemies of the froghopper.
Guppy (P. L.). Life-history of the Syrphid fly predaceous on Frog-
hopper Nymphs.—Bull. Dept. Agric., Trinidad and Tobago, xii,
no. 75, Nov. 1913, pp. 159-161.
From 30 to 40 nymphs are killed and sucked during the life of a
larva of this fly [Salpingogaster nigra, Schiner], which is from nine to
97
ten days’ duration, and no doubt it destroys numbers of very small
nymphs wherever these are abundant. In two instances adult frog-
hoppers were found killed by the maggot, which had attacked them
when they had just issued from the last nymphal instar and were too
soft to escape from surrounding froth. Besides the nymphs of
Tomaspis saccharina (the sugar-cane froghopper) it kills those of
T. pubescens (the black froghopper). It travels from froth to froth
fairly rapidly, and is able to follow the nymphs under the soil. The
fly itself resembles very closely a small black wasp with some yellow
markings on the thorax and abdomen. Even when the fly is settled,
it continues to move its abdomen in and out, just as a wasp does. This
fly is one of the most important enemies of the froghopper. It is hoped
to breed it successfully on a large scale so as to get it started earlier in
the season.
Crmatti (V.). Per la difesa dei nostri agrumi. [The protection of our
citrus fruits. |—Rivista di Agricoltura, Parma, xix, no. 49, 5th Dec.
1913, pp. 782-784.
In 1910, Italy sustained a loss of about £40,000,000 through insect
pests. A most dangerous one, which threatens to spread among the
citrus plants, is Chrysomphalus dictyospermi var. pinnulifera (bianca-
rossa). Lime-sulphur is useful for its control, and some of the con-
clusions arrived at by Martelli after long and repeated experiments
with this insecticide are: The purity of the lime is of prime importance.
The lime must contain 90 per cent. of calcium oxide, and in the 10 per
cent. of impurity the magnesium oxide must not exceed 5 per cent.
The sulphur must be of a very high degree of purity (98 per cent.), and
in almost impalpable powder.
_ The larvae of Prays citri, Mil. (tignuola, zagara) ruins the orange
blossoms. The following spray formula is given: 20 gals. water,
22 lb. molasses, 22 Ib. dregs of lime juice essence, and 2 gals. water in
which 43 lb. of sodium arsenite have been dissolved. Spray in May, repeat
10 days later; then apply again in June and repeat as before. Another
pest of citrus plants, Pseudococcus citri, Risso, causes the white mould
(muffa bianca or cutuneddu), which is nearly always accompanied by
fumaggine. The following emulsion is suggested: 6b. soap (soft or
hard), 14 pts. petroleum, 20 gals. water. It should be applied, as usual,
in June.
CHITTENDEN (F. J.). On Beans damaged by Beetles.—J/. R. Hort.
Soc., London, xxxix, pt. 2, Dec. 1913, pp. 379-380.
In some seasons a considerable proportion of the seed of broad-beans.
offered for sale is found to be damaged by a boring beetle, Bruchus
rufimanus, Boh., often wrongly called the bean weevil. The question
arises whether the damaged seeds may be sown with a prospect of
reaping a crop. As it would be manifestly unwise to sow the beetles
as well as the seeds, it is recommended first of all to destroy the beetles.
in the seed by fumigating with carbon bisulphide (3 lb. to 1,000 cubic
feet of space) for 48 hours. Experiments have shown that seeds thus.
treated have produced plants as strong and as healthy as those from
98
undamaged seeds. The beetle instinctively avoids the radicle and
plumule when boring, confining its attention to the food-stuff stored
in the cotyledon, and of this there is a store great enough to satisfy the
plant after the ravages made by the beetle. The only danger is that if
the weather be cold and the seed long in germinating, there is a
possibility of decay setting in, for bacteria or fungi would have easy
access through the wounded testa.
Wtwnw (H.). Im Unterelsass und in der angrenzenden Rheinpfalz fest-
gestellte Cocciden. [Coccids recorded from Lower Alsace and the
adjoming Rhine Palatinate. |—Zezt. wissen. Insektenbiol., Berlin,
ix, nos. 8-9, Ist Sept. 1913, pp. 255-258.
This is a list of all the species of Cocctpar, known from the area
indicated, and with each species is given a very full record of the
localities in which it has been found, and all the plants on which it has
occurred. The list is being published in instalments.
\) The Fertilisation of Cacao.—Gardens Bulletin, Straits Settlement,
Singapore, i, no. 6, 15th Dec. 1913, p. 195.
The number of c1cao pods formed on a tree is very much out of
proportion to the number of flowers produced. Mr. G. A. Jones, who
has experimented to find the reason of this, has noticed that if the
common red ants which tend green fly about the flowers are kept away,
no pollination results. There is, however, no positive evidence to show
that red ants have anything to do with the fertility of the flowers.
Burk (I. H.). Clerome gracilis, a Butterfly destructive to Palms.—
Gardens Bulletin, Strarts Settlements, Singapore, i, no. 6, 15th Dec.
1913, pp. 188-186. i
The caterpillar of Clerome gracilis, Butl. (AMATHUSIINAE) is social in
its habits, and has been found to damage Rhopaloblaste palms. The
caterpillars, when both feeding and resting, are found on the under
surface of the leaf, feeding only at night.
Burkitt (I. H.). The Coconut Beetles, Oryctes rhinoceros and Rhyn-
chophorus ferrugineus.—Gardens Bulletin, Straits Settlements,
Singapore, 1, no. 6, 15th Dec. 1913, pp. 176-188.
The two beetles legislated against in the Straits Settlements are
Oryctes rhinoceros and Rhynchophorus ferrugineus. The first is the
commoner, but individually less destructive; it feeds as an adult in
the stems of living palms, generally coconut palms, tunnelling into the
softer parts of the stem; it may lay its eggs in these tunnels, but
usually it does so in decaying vegetable matter, sawdust, etc., and
especially in the central parts of dead palm trunks. The Palm Weevil
(Rh. ferrugineus) lays its eggs on the coconut trees, making a small hole
for each egg with its long snout. The burrows of the Rhinoceros
Beetle (O. rhinoceros) give the Palm Weevil access to the inside of the
palm, of which full advantage is usually taken. The eggs give rise to
99
white grubs, which eat out galleries through the softest tissue, thereby
destroying the heart of the palm cabbage.
The Rhinoceros Beetle is common from India to the Philippine
Islands, wherever large palms abound. In Africa its place is taken by
O. monoceros and O. boas, which attack palms in the same way. In
Madagascar are six other species of palm-attacking Oryctes. In the
Island of Reunion there are two species. Tropical America has a
closely allied genus, Strategus, which furnishes at least one species of
similar habits. Allied genera, Pimelopus and Scapanes in New Guinea,
and Camelonotus in America, attack young palms, burrowing into their
stems from the ground. The Palm Weevil of Asia, occurs in India,
Ceylon, and eastward to the Philippine Islands. It is replaced by
R. phoenicis in tropical Africa, and by the allied R. palmarum and
R. cruentatus in tropical America.
As to the extent of the damage done by the Rhinoceros Beetle in
Samoa, about the beginning of 1912, an official statement was made that
150 trees had been destroyed and 6,000 to 8,000, or one-fifth of the others
in affected areas, had received damage enough to postpone their yielding
for one or two years. Measures taken to cope with the beetle con-
sisted of collecting the grubs, and trapping the beetle in holes dug in
the ground and filled with material such as rotting stumps, which afford
suitable breeding places for the insect; the traps were visited
periodically and the beetles killed by suffocation with carbon bisul-
phide. These methods were, however, expensive. The method
adopted now against both the Rhinoceros Beetle and the Palm Weevil
consists in removing every kind of material from the plantation which
would offer a suitable breeding place for the beetles—not only palm
stumps, but also all sorts of decaying vegetation, etc. For the
removal of dead trees and stumps the author advocates the use of
explosives. Experiments made to find the quantity of explosive
necessary to destroy trees and stumps showed that to blow a stump
completely to pieces, four cartridges of blasting gelatine, placed in
a hole drilled in the base of the stump, were sufficient ; four cartridges
of blasting gelatine similarly placed in the base of a standing dead tree
and exploded, brought it down, leaving in the ground insufficient
material to serve as a breeding place for the beetle; four cartridges
of gelignite did not suffice to do the work thoroughly, nor were three
cartridges of blasting gelatine quite sufficient.
The following palms are recorded as attacked by the Rhinoceros
Beetle :—Cocos nucifera (Coconut), C. plumosa, Martinezia caryotaefolia,
Phoenix dactylifera (date palm), P. sylvestris, Livistona chinensis,
Verschaffeltia splendida, Dictyosperma album, Hyophorbe amaricaulus,
Elaeis guineensis (African oil palm), Corypha umbraculifera (Talipot
palm), C. gebanga, and Borassus flabelliformis. The following are
recorded as attacked by the Palm Weevil :—Oreodoza regia (Royal palm)
Borassus flabelliformis, Phoenix sylvestris, and the author has found it
on Avenga saccharifera and Elaeis quineensis.
The following papers containing detailed accounts of the life-history,
habits and methods of combating these beetles are referred to :—
Gehrmann, in Der Tropenpflanzer, xv (1911) pp. 92; Friederichs, K.,
in the same, xvii (1913) pp. 538 [see this Review, Ser. A., 1, p. 26];
Jepson, F. J., Bull. No. 3, Dept. Agric., Fiji, (1912); Preuss, Der
Tropenpflanzer, xv (1911), p. 73; McKenna, J., and Shroff, K. D.,
100
Bull. No. 4, Dept. Agric., Burma (1910), p. 3; Ridley, Rept. on the
Destruction of Cocoanut Palms by Beetles, Journ. Asiatic Soc., Straits
Branch, No. 20 (1889); Beven, Trop. Agric., N.S., xxiv, May 1905,
p. 111; Koningsberger, J. C., Mededeelinger van Slands Plantentuin,
xxii (1898), p. 42; Summers, Canadian Entomologist, v, p. 123;
Blanford, Kew Bull., 1893, p. 37; Ghosh, C. C., Mem. Dept. Agric.
India, Calcutta, 11, No. 10, Dec. 1911.
KEMNER (A.). Vara Clerider, deras levnadssatt och larver. [Our
Cleridae, their habits and larvae. |—Ent. Tidskrift, Uppsala, xxxiv,
4th Dec. 1913, pp. 191-210, 12 figs.
The author gives an account of the following Clerid beetles from
Sweden: Thanasimus formicarius, L., Corynetes coeruleus, De Geer,
Opilo mollis, L., O. domesticus, Sturm, Tillus elongatus, L., and
Necrobia violacea, L. The larvae of these species are described and a
key to them is given with figures of the posterior extremities.
The following additions are made to our knowledge of their biology.
The larva of Thanasimus formicarius is abundant in the galleries of
Myelophilus piniperda, L., and Ips typographus, L. Young larvae
occur in June and pupation takes place in August-September, but.
many hibernate. The Clerid larvae prey on those of the Scolytid
beetles. The larva of Opilo domesticus was found in wood in the
Royal castle of Kalmar in the galleries of Anobiwm striatum on the
larvae of which it preys. The small heaps of frass observed on the .
surface of timber and furniture attacked by Anobium are, as a matter
of fact, not made by Anobium, but by the larvae of Opilo ; as this larva
itself is able to make galleries in the timber it cannot be regarded as
wholly beneficial ; it 1s, however, very predaceous, as the great number
of empty skins of Anobiwm larvae to be found in the galleries bear
witness.
The larva of Corynetes coeruleus, a species which Thomson believed
to have been imported at Gottenborg, but which now is not uncommon
in the southern and central parts of Sweden, was also found on the
same occasion preying on the larvae of Anobium. As this larva is of
smaller size than that of Opilo domesticus, it can hunt the larvae of
Anobium without making any galleries itself, and is therefore presum-
ably more beneficial than the former, but on account of its comparative
scarcity its controlling influence is not important in Sweden.
Necrobia violacea hibernates as an imago, and its larva is found on
carcases, feeding on other larvae.
SAHLBERG (J.). Till kannedomen om Haltica engstrémi och dess.
biologi. [A contribution to our knowledge of Haltica engstroemi and.
its biology.] —Ent. Tidskrift, Uppsala, xxxiv, 4th Dec. 1913,
pp. 261-270, 1 pl.
This beetle was described by Sahlberg as far back as 1893, but only
provisionally, as only females were found. Subsequently, it was
discovered in two different localities in N. Russia, and during recent
years again in Finland, the last time near Gammelstad on Spiraea
ulmaria, leaves of which were riddled with holes, sometimes only the
101
principal veins being left. From the last-named locality it has spread
further each year.
Sahlberg concludes that the species is an immigrant from the east,
and that it will continue to spread westwards, and eventually reach
Sweden. He succeeded in finding the larva, which, in July, lives in
the same manner as the adult does in spring and autumn. A detailed
diagnosis and figures of the larva, male, female, and an attacked leaf
are given.
Gas Tar and Mealy Bug. Gardener’s Chronicle, London, liv, nos. 1399,
1401, 1407, 1409, 18th Oct., 1st Nov., 6th Dec., 13th Dec. 1913,
pp. 279, 309, 407, 427.
Readers of the “‘ Gardener’s Chronicle”? have communicated the
results of their experiences with gas tar as a means of combating the
mealy bug (Pseudococcus citri) on vines. Mr. A. Shakelton, Chard,
says that he found a mixture of 6 to 9 parts of clay and one part of gas
tar to do as much injury to the vines as to the pest; he obtained good
results by the use of Gishurst compound. Mr. J. Whytock upholds the
use of a mixture of clay and tar, finding that it destroys the pest without
injuring the vines; the varieties of vine grown by him were Mrs.
Pince, Lady Hutt, Gus. Colman, and Appley Towers. Mr. Singleton
Oxfordshire, says that the use of a mixture of gas tar and clay in the
above proportions caused complete failure of the crop of Black Ham-
burgh grapes, but he used it successfully in the case of varieties such
as Lady Downes and Black Alicante. “J. H. Y.” gave up the use of
all such methods as painting with tar in favour of fumigation with
hydrocyanic acid, which, according to him, is entirely satisfactory,
completely killing the pest without injury to the vine or any other
plant in the house (except Tvradescantia). He also found the gas
equally successful in killing brown scale (Lecanium persicae, Geoff.)
on peach trees.
GLAsER (R. W.) and CHapman (J. W.). The Wilt Disease of Gipsy
Moth Caterpillars.—J/. Econ. Entom., Concord, vi, no. 6, Dec.
1913, pp. 479-488.
In August 1912, the authors published a paper in Science entitled :
** Studies on the Wilt Disease or Flacherie of the Gipsy Moth.” [See
also this Review, Ser. A. i, pp. 33-36.] More extensive observations
and experiments conducted during the past year have led them to
_ modify some of their original views concerning this disease. The
conclusions drawn from the first series of observations concerning the
mode of infection and general pathology were, on the whole, correct,
but the etiological connection of a micrococcus with the disease was
not so well grounded. The micrococcus described in 1912, and believed
to be connected with the wilt disease, has proved to be a casual
intestinal parasite. The reason for eliminating this organism
(Gyrococcus flaccidifex) from the possible excitors of the disease are the
following: If smears were made from caterpillars dead but a short
time, no bacteria could be found. Cultures made from such cater-
102
pillars on caterpillar and other nutrient media remained sterile. If
serial sections are made of diseased caterpillars obtained in the field,
polyhedral bodies will be found in abundance, but no bacteria in the
tissues, and usually the intestinal lumen will be free from micro-
organisms in general.
Great care was taken to procure healthy uninfected caterpillars for
the experiments, by collecting from localities where no epidemic was
evident. The caterpillars were divided into groups, and each group
was subjected to slightly different conditions of temperature, light,
moisture, etc. This gave the disease, if latent, every chance of becom-
ing manifest, since conditions unfavourable to the caterpillars are
believed to assist its development. Ifthe disease under one or other of
the conditions broke out, the whole of the caterpillars collected from
the same locality were discarded. Such a method of obtaining healthy
individuals is much more satisfactory than the blood test, as the
controls showed.
Many views have been held regarding the agents responsible for the
disease. HEscherich and Miyajima in 1911 were of the opinion that
the polyhedral bodies were the carriers of the virus; Bolle believed
that a Microsporidian (Microsporidium bombycis) was responsible.
According to Knoch, little refractive granules appear in the blood
corpuscules ; these multiply and infect the nuclei of tissue cells, where
their amoeboid membrane hardens and they change into polyhedral
bodies; he further states that the minute granules, which resemble
the Chlamydozoa of Prowazek, are the vegetative, the polyhedral
bodies the resting stages of the causative organism. Prowazek was
able to infect caterpillars with the disease by means of a filtrate of
emulsified diseased material, which contained neither bacteria nor
polyhedral bodies; his experiments, in the author’s opinion, are
suggestive, but not conclusive, as no controls were made, and the blood
test was the only one used in diagnosing the health of the caterpillars.
Thirty filterable viruses are known to be responsible for diseases in
man and the lower mammals, but only one has been described in insects,
viz., that of sacbrood, a bee disease discovered by White in 1913.
[See this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 186. ]
Coming to the experiments made by the authors, it is first stated
that the reason why filtrates of diseased material gave negative results
in 1912, was that the emulsion was too concentrated. This year,
caterpillars which died of the disease were crushed with just enough
sterile water to facilitate the crushing. This material was then
strained through cheese-cloth and filtered by means of suction through
filter paper; the filtrate was diluted in one case with fifty, in another
with twenty-five times its volume of water. This was then passed
through a Berkefeld “Grade N”’ filter and used for the infection
experiments. The filtrate was free from bacteria and polyhedral
bodies. Nothing could be observed except some very minute dancing
granules, also noticed by Prowazek in his experiments with silkworms.
A large number of caterpillars were fed with the Berkefeld filtrate,
smeared on red oak leaves. In one series of experiments 50 cater-
pillars were fed with the filtrate, in another 40, in a third 20. The
same number was fed with material before it was passed through the
Berkefeld filter, and a large set of controls, fed with Berkefeld filtrate
which had been sterilised by autoclaving, accompanied each series.
103
Out of the entire lot of caterpillars (110) fed with unsterilised
Berkefeld filtrate,28 died with typical wilt symptoms. Polyhedral bodies.
were abundant, but there were no bacteria. Other caterpillars died from
other causes; the caterpillars dying thus differed from those dying
of wilt disease in being tough instead of flaccid, and in the absence in
them of polyhedral bodies. Some of the caterpillars were killed by the
Tachinid parasite, Compsilura concinnata. A greater number of
caterpillars (48 out of 85) died in the experiments with the unfiltered
virus. Thisseems to show that the virusis filterable, but with difficulty.
Among the entire number of controls, 162 caterpillars, only three died
of wilt, equivalent to about 1°8 per cent., a very small percentage,
which can be overlooked as an experimental error.
The polyhedral bodies have as yet revealed nothing of a parasitic
nature; they may be a resting stage of a filterable vegetative form,
but the authors are rather inclined to regard them as reaction bodies.
They are possibly products of nuclear digestion, produced by the
virus invading the nuclei and digesting the chromatin.
One more matter is considered, viz., the question as to whether the
disease is carried by the air, as is held to be the case by W. Reiff.
Details are given of the experiments carried out to test this view, and
the conclusion is that the wind is not an important factor in transport-
ing the disease, and that infection in nature occurs when caterpillars.
feed on leaves soiled by the juices of dead individuals.
A striking phenomenon observed in all the experiments was the
large number of moths obtained from caterpillars which had been
repeatedly infected. This seems to suggest a degree of immunity
possessed by some of the caterpillars, and agrees with the observations.
in the field, where, in a given locality, the disease raged for several
weeks, and yet moths were seen later in abundance.
Gove (L. H.). The Fumigation Campaign of 1912-1913.—Agric.
Jl. of Egypt, Cairo, ii, part 1, 1913, pp. 38-41.
The fumigation with hydrocyanic acid gas in Egypt of citrus trees
affected with scale-insects was commenced by the Department of
Agriculture in January 1912. Two gardens containing about 3,000
small trees were fumigated with satisfactory results. For the
fumigation campaign of 1913-1914, the equipment consisted of seventy-
two fumigation sheets, of which thirty were 20 feet in diameter, thirty
34 feet in diameter, and twelve 45 feet in diameter. These, except
five of the largest, had been made at Cawnpore to the pattern given in
Mr. Woglum’s paper (Fumigation of Citrus trees, U.S.- Bureau of
Entomology, Bull. 90). The cloth used was 74 oz. drill; the dosage
was calculated from the tables given in that paper, one ounce charges
being given in every case to allow for the loose texture of the cloth.
A start was made in October 1912, in the garden of H.H. the Khedive,
at Kubba, the fumigation campaign being carried out by the staff,
consisting of a Kuropean Inspector, and at first seven, but generally
two, students. The tallest trees fumigated were 23 feet high, those
taller being usually too old to be profitable. The balance sheet showed
a small loss.
104
The scale-insect (Aspidiotus aonidum, L.), which does the damage
in Egypt, is a recent introduction, and the depreciation it causes may
be 50 or 60 per cent. The improvement due to fumigation pays for
itself in the first season and leaves an additional profit over and above
last year’s takings.
Wituiams (C. B.). On two new species of Thysanoptera from the
West Indies.—J/. Econ. Biol., London, viii, no. 4, 16th Dec. 1913,
pp. 209-215, 2 figs.
Two collections of Thrips were received by the author from Mr. F.
Birkinshaw, of the Agricultural Experiment Station, Kingstown,
St. Vincent. The insects had been taken in the grounds of that station
on cacao and bitter cassava (Manvhot utilissema). It was stated that
the manihot leaves were injured somewhat and consequently did not
develop properly; the insects however, did not appear to bea
source of great injury so far as the yield is concerned, unless it was
present in large numbers. The collection of insects taken on cacao
consisted entirely of larvae and adults of Heliothrips rubrocincta,
Giard; that from cassava contained two species, both of which
appear to be new. One belongs to the genus Frankliniella, and has
been called F’. melanommatus ; for the other it has been found necessary
to erect a new genus of the family Turipipaz, and the name Cory-
nothrips stenopterus is proposed for it.
THompson (W. R.). La Spéeificité des Parasites entomophages.
[Specialisation of habit in Parasites of Insects.|—C. R. de la Soc.
Bool., lxxv, no. 36, 19th Dec. 1913, pp. 559-560.
In a second communication upon this subject [see this Rewew,
Ser. A, 1, p. 16], the author describes experiments he made with the
Tachinid parasite Sturmia scutellata, R.D., supplied with eggs of
Lymantria dispar, Clistocampa disstria, C. americana, Vanessa antiopa,
Hemerocampa leucostigma, and Orgyia antiqua. In the first three
the parasites developed normally; they did not develop at all
in Vanessa. In the last two, although the eggs were given in large
numbers, not a single perfect larva was obtained ; upon dissection,
44 larvae of the parasite were found, but of these only one had
grown, and instead of being as usual in the muscles of the host
larva, they were free in the general body cavity, and were much
smaller than is usual with larvae at that age. Besides these, 42 larvae
were found dead and decomposing and surrounded by phagocytes.
It is evident that Sturmia scutellata cannot live and develop in
surroundings other than those furnished by such hosts as L. dispar
or C. disstria and americana. L. dispar belongs to the LyMANTRIIDAE,
whereas C. disstria and C. americana belong to the LastocaMPIDAE ;
there is not, therefore, necessarily any relation between the taxonomic
position of Lepidoptera and their special parasites. On the other hand,
different parasites can often live in a limited number of hosts under
the action of certain ethological factors that are at present difficult to
determine.
105
GowpEy (C.C.). A List of Uganda Coccidae and their Food-plants.—
Bull. Entom. Research, London, iv, pt. 3, Nov. 1913, pp. 247-249.
_ The list which the author gives of the CoccipaE of Uganda is the
result of an extended search among the flora of that country. Owing
to the favourable climatic conditions and the luxuriance of vegetation,
Coccids continue to grow and multiply throughout the year. The
family is abundantly represented, no less than 49 species being
enumerated.
DupGEon (G. C.). A Proposed Method of Controlling the Ravages of
Leaf-eating Caterpillars— Bull. Entom. Research, London, iv, pt. 3,
Nov. 1913, pp. 243-245.
In Egypt, where temperature and humidity exhibit practically no
variation which can seriously affect agriculture, and where the land is
irrigated by a well organised system of canals, which serve also to fer-
tilise the soil, almost the only uncertain factor which may affect results
is the presence or absence of insect pests. The isolated position of
Egypt with respect to other countries makes it less liable to the intro-
duction of pests, but on theother hand, when a pest has gained a foothold,
it remains unattacked by natural enemies, which in less isolated countries
would tend to exterminate it. The present paper deals with the
so-called “cotton worm,” the caterpillar of Prodenia litura, F., a Noctuid
moth of the sub-family Acronyctinar. Previous to 1910, the
Government had legislated against this pest, but the methods employed
were purely mechanical, consisting of destroying the egg-masses as
soon as they appeared; other methods employed were equally costly
and less efficacious. In 1910, upon the formation of the Agricultural
Department of Egypt, attention was turned to the possibility of
introducing disease among the larvae. Experiments were made in
which bodies carrying diseases known to attack lepidopterous insects
were introduced and the larvae of P. litura were infected with them.
Muscardine and other fungoid diseases were found unsuitable, owing
to the dryness of the climate. Pebrine and flacherie were tried, but it
was impossible to say what the results were, as a superinfection occurred
due to a protozoan disease known as “ grasserie”’ (Microsporidium
polyedricum, Bolle). This disease was so efficacious that all the larvae
of Prodenia in the experimental area were killed. A month later it was
found difficult to procure Prodenia uninfected by the disease from any
part of the country. The author believes that the outbreak was
spontaneous, and that it had nothing to do with the laboratory
experiments. Steps were taken to secure the continuity of the disease.
In experiments to find out how this might best be accomplished,
30,000 silkworms were fed with food sprayed with water in which were
the macerated remains of an infected silkworm. They all died before -
reaching maturity, mostly on or shortly after the fourth day. A similar
experiment was made, using an infected cotton worm instead of a
silkworm; the worms did not die so quickly, but no larva reached
the spinning stage. Later, in May 1913, cotton worms were infected
by food sprayed with water containing a single macerated diseased
silkworm; in three days 50 per cent. had succumbed, only six
survived to pupate, and it was not expected that these would emerge.
(C11) D
106
As the cotton worms in the field were rare, it was not possible to test
these experiments on a large scale in the open. The method that would
be adopted in the open would be to disseminate the disease by artificial
spraying of the plants with water containing infected larvae.
Investigations were, at the time of writing, not sufficiently complete to
make it possible to say what the effect of climate would be on the
infective power of the disease, but there is no doubt that the rainless
climate of Egypt would facilitate its dissemination by spraying.
Peacock (A. D.). Entomological Pests and Problems of Southern
Nigeria.— Bull. Entom. Research, London, iv, pt. 3, Nov. 1913,
pp. 191-220, 2 figs., 6 pl.
This report deals with the investigations made by the author in
Southern Nigeria in 1911-1912. Insects attacking cotton are the
cotton stainers (Dysdercus superstitiosus, F., and Oxycarenus dudgeoni,
Dist.) ; boll-worms (Diparopsis castanea, Hmp., Earias biplaga, Wlk.,
and Chloridea obsoleta, F.); leaf-rolling caterpillars (Sylepta derogata,
F., and Zebromia phenice, Cram.) ; cotton aphis (Aphis gossypi, Glov.) ;
leaf-eating beetles (CoccINELLIDAE: Epilachna chrysomelina, ¥.,
E. semilis, Muls.; Lacrupar: Lagria villosa, F., and L. viridipennis,
F.; CurcunionipaE: Siderodactylus sp.; CHRYSOMELIDAE: Sya-
grus calcaratus, F., Plagiodera circumeincta, Sahlb., Ootheca mutabilis,
Sahlb., and Nisotra uniforma, Jac.) ; leaf-eating caterpillars (Euproctis
sp., &. lyonia, Swinh.); scale-insects (Pulvinarva jackson, Newst., and
Ripersia sp.).
The study of the Red Cotton Stainer (Dysdercus superstitiosus)
occupied considerable attention; it is the worst pest of Southern
Nigerian cotton, and does an immense amount of harm both to the seed
and to the lint. It is widely distributed in the Colony, being mostly
in evidence during March, the time of the ripening and shedding of the
seed of the silk-cotton tree, and from September to the end of Novem-
ber, during the ripening of the cotton bolls. The bugs suck the juices
of the rich oily seeds of the cotton, Hibiscus and silk-cotton tree, and
stain the white lint of their food-plants with yellow excretory juices.
The eggs are laid in clusters, the average number in each being about 63.
The breeding period lasts for about 9 to 10 weeks; the newly hatched
young soon become active, and crawling up the cotton stalk, swarm
upon the opened bolls and suck the cotton seed ;_ there are five moults.
Natural enemies have not been discovered. It is of great importance
to keep the plantations free from all weeds, etc.; the presence of the
silk-cotton tree has also been shown to be prejudicial. Collecting the
stainers is best undertaken early in the cotton season. A collecting
net suitable for the purpose is described and figured. The planting of
trap-crops to entice the stainers away from the cotton plants is sug-
gested, but was not tried. General measures are recommended, such
as gathering the cotton as soon as it is ripe, sunning it well, and
constantly turning it over, which causes the stainers to crawl away,
and the burning of old cotton-stalks, which harbour the pest. Some
foreign cottons are not so liable to attack as the native varieties, but
their lint-bearing qualities are not so good.
The Black Cotton Stainer (Oxycarenus dudgeont) is also widely
distributed ; it appears in November. The insect feeds and breeds
_—
in the opened cotton bolls, sucking the juices from the seeds. The eggs
are laid in clusters of apparently about 20; the wingless young swarm
in December. Their favourite food-plants are species of Hibiscus.
The extent of the damage they do has not been estimated exactly,
but their abundance suggests that it is considerable. The remedies
advocated for the Red Cotton Stainer apply equally to this species.
The boll-worms mentioned above are widely distributed; the
caterpillars bore into the unopened ripening cotton bolls and devour
the seeds inside, while Diparopsis castanea and Chloridea obsoleta eat
the flower-buds also. The damage is serious, and so far no natural
enemies have been discovered. Spraying with lead chromate is the
most efiective remedy. A careful look-out should be kept for leaf-
rollers and boll-worms during August and September, and immediately
their presence is detected the leaves, bracts, bolls, and buds should be
thoroughly sprayed; the number of sprayings must depend upon the
condition of the crop as the season advances ;_ at the end of the season
all the old stalks with diseased bolls should be burnt. The same spray
will effectively control the various leaf-eating caterpillars.
The cotton aphis (Aphis gossypw) is kept well in check by natural
enemies, including lady-bird beetles (Chilomenes lunata, F., and C.
vicina, Muls.), hover flies (Paragus borbonicus, Mcq., Syrphus aegyptius,
Wied., and S. nasutus, Mcq.), and lacewing flies (Hemerobius sp. and
Chrysopa sp.).
The insects affecting cacao are leaf-eating caterpillars (Diacrisia
maculosa, Stoll, Diacrisia sp., Prodenia litura, F., and Rhopalocampta
forestan, Cram.); leaf-eating beetles (Adoretus hirtellus, Castn.); a
pod borer (? Myelows)*; scale-insects (Pseudococcus virgatus var.
madagascariensis, Newst. and P. citrz, Risso).
The measures for combating leaf-eating caterpillars and beetles
resolve themselves into :—(1) clean farming; (2) the segregation of
cacao-beds from maize, since many pests of the latter migrate to the
cacao; (3) a combination of hand-collecting and spraying with Paris
green or lead arsenate..
Red tree ants (Oecophylla) are not harmful to cacao trees, but their
presence adds a difficulty to the collecting of the ripe pods, owing to
their vicious bites. The best method of combating them is to cut down
their leaf-nests and destroy them. An Ichneumonid, Metopzius discolor,
Tosq., was bred from Prodenia litura, and a Tachinid fly of the genus
Sisyropa from Diacrisia maculosa.
The author says that the general condition of the native cacoa farms
is at present bad, the chief defects being that the land is not thoroughly
cleared and stumped; that the trees are not planted so that they may
be readily worked; and that decaying branches and pods are left on the
trees and on the ground.
The insects recorded as affecting maize are Cirphis * phaea, Hmp.,
Calamistes praepallens, Hmp., C. fusca, Hmp.; leaf-eating beetles
(Lagria villosa, ¥., and L. viridipennis, F.), and the locust, Zonocerus
varregatus, L. C. phaea should be combated by burning the grass or
107
*(From specimens received from Mr. W. H. Patterson, Government
Entomologist in the Gold Coast, this insect proves to be Characoma
stictigrapta, Hmp., a Noctuid moth of the sub-family SARROTHRIPINAE. The
species was also bred from the fruit of kola by the late Mr. L. Armstrong
in the Gold Coast.—Ep.]
(C11) D2
108
bush round the fields; when once the caterpillars have gained the
maize plants damage can only be prevented by spraying. Not enough
work has been done upon the other pests of maize to warrant giving
specific remedies.
The insects recorded as damaging yams are the beetles, Prionoryctes
caniculus, Arrow, Crioceris huvida, Dalm., Apomecyna parumpunctata,
Chev., Lagria villosa, ¥.,and L.viredipenms, F.,and Zonocerus variegatus.
To combat P. caniculus spraying with a stomach poison is suggested, a
method which applies also to C. livida.
The larvae of the following moths are recorded as affecting Funtumia
rubber :—Glyphodes ocellata, Hmp., Nephele aequivalens, Walk., which
is of rare occurrence, and Thermopteryx elasticella, Hmp.; also a —
Thrips, Physothrups funtumiae, Bagn.
Mahogany trees (Khaya senegalensis) suffered from the attacks of
lepidopterous larvae, which bore into the stem. Arabian coffee is
affected by a beetle, Ootheca mutabilis, Sahlb., and the bugs, Antestia
variegata, Thunb., Riptortus tenwicorns, Dall., and Ductyopharina
serene, Stal. Other plants attacked by insects are recorded, namely,
the oil palm, attacked by a weevil, Rhynchophorus phoenicis, ¥. ;
the coconut palm, by another weevil, Temnoschoita quadrimaculata,
Gyl.; kola, by a Rutelid beetle, Adoretus hirtellus, Castn.; and
okra by various cotton pests.
The author concludes by pointing out the need of pioneer entomo-
logical research, which is essential before the necessary instruction
with regard to insect pests can be given to the native farmers.
GrossHEIm (N. A.). Hb 6Oionoriv niouepHoBaro ponroHocuKa WM ero
napasuToBb. [On the biology of Phytonomus murmus F. and its
parasites.|— « 9HTomMonormyueckin BbcTHuKb» [Messenger of
Entomology.| Kiev, i, no. 1, 1913, 21 pp.
This investigation was undertaken upon a request from the Depart-
ment of Agriculture of the United States, transmitted through N. V.
Kurdjumov, for information concerning the parasites of Phytonomus
murinus, the lucerne weevil. The author conducted his enquiry in the
province of Kuban, where, according to him, these insects threaten to
develop in the near future to a dangerous degree.
The hibernating beetles emerged during April, but disappeared again
under the earth or inside the plants on cold days. Just after emergence
the insect does not touch the leaves, but feeds on the summit of the
stem, in which it gnaws holes. The eggs are usually deposited in the
tender ends of the stem, but also on branches, and frequently near
the roots. As a rule, the females prepare a hole in the stem for the
reception of the eggs, but occasionally they make use of the stipules,
piercing through them and depositing the eggs in the space between
them and the stem. The eggs are most frequently arranged in small
heaps, which are often roughly conical and sometimes egg-shaped ;
or more rarely, they are laid in a chain-like row of not more than nine
egos; or again, when deposited on the stipules, they are arranged in
a flat-topped pile perpendicular to the stem. The eggs are usually
covered by a layer formed of the excrement of the female, but some-
times this is absent, the last egg serving as a cover for the heap. The
author figures the various types of egg-heaps, and gives a table
_—
summarising his observations on the mode of oviposition by one female,
which deposited in one and a half months 690 eggs in 47 heaps; in
favourable weather there were up to five ovipositions daily, while in
bad weather none took place. Oviposition proceeds from the end of
March to the end of June, but the number of the beetles decreases
noticeably from the middle of June.
The development of the larvae inside the eggs occupies from four to
21 days, depending chiefly on the weather conditions; apparently
the larvae which issue first remain inside the egg-cluster till the other
larvae appear, as their exit from the heap always takes place at the
same time. The author describes and figures the various stages of
the larvae, the progressive changes in their habits, and the injuries
done to the leaves. The cocoon is constructed among the leaves,
three, or sometimes only two, leaves being drawn together into the form
ofatube. The pupal stage lasts from six to eleven days.
Parasites were found of all the stages of Phytonomus murinus. The
eggs are attacked by a small Pteromalid, which has not been identified.
This insect proved to be an external parasite, laying only one egg in an
egg-heap of the Phytonomus ; the larva, after feeding on the eggs of
the host, pupates without a cocoon inside the heap, the pupal stage
lasting 13-15 days. The whole development of the parasite lasts from
three to four weeks, so that only two broods of it appear during the
summer; in the year of the author’s investigations, the percentage
of eggs infested by this parasite was 13°33.
Canidiella curculionis, Thoms., infested 3:16 per cent. of the larvae
of P. murinus. This external parasite attacks the larvae of the host
in their latest stages, and the infested larvae prepare a cocoon, but do
not pupate. The parasitic larva pupates inside the cocoon of the
beetle remaining there during its whole pupal stage, which for the
second generation of the parasite lasts through the winter. The
cocoon of the parasite possesses a remarkable power of jumping, which
the author explains, accompanying his explanations by drawings,
He suggests that the purpose of this jumping is either to protect the
pupa from hyperparasites, or gradually to destroy the cocoon of the
host. Some undetermined PrEROMALIDAE were found to be hyper-
parasites of C. curculionis; cocoons of the parasites so infected
lose their jumping power, besides turning transparent and bright
yellow.
The larvae of P. murinus are also infested by two Chalcids, Tetras-
tichus sp., which is a primary internal parasite, and Dzbrachoides
(Pteromalus) dynaster, Forst., an external parasite; the percentage
of infection by these two species is low.
_ As to the parasites of the pupae of P. murinus, there were noticed
Eulophus sp., an external parasite, and Pimpla maculator, F., an
internal one; one specimen of the latter was also bred from a larva of
the host. This Ichneumonid is much the most important parasite,
as 45 per cent. of the pupae were attacked by it. Catolaccus alter,
Ratzb., was obtained as a hyperparasite of Pompla maculator.
Besides parasites, there were noticed also as enemies of P. murius,
the larvae of Chrysopa sp., which destroy the cocoon of the weevil and
feed on the pupa, and a small red acarid. All these enemies and
parasites together destroyed in the season under consideration, 71 per
cent. of P. murinus.
109
110
The author deals further with remedies, which can be best applied
against the larvae, as all other stages are more or less effectively
protected. He mentions the following measures :—(1) Flooding of
the lucerne crops, which remedy cannot however be of importance
under the conditions prevailing in the Russian steppes; (2) drawing
@ wire broom over the field; (3) harrowing with a disc harrow, which
is the best remedy ; and (4) burning with naphtha.
GoLovianko (Z.). Ta6nuubl 4A onpepbnenia HanOonte oObiIKHOBeHH-
bIXb JIMYMHOKb MAACTMHYATOYCLIXb MYHOBb. [Identification
tables for the more common Lamellicorn larvae.|—Pubd. by
A. F. Devrien, St. Petersburg, 1913, 26 pp., 108 figs., 3 tables.
The tables contain descriptions of the larvae of the following beetles,
many of which are important pests :—MELOLONTHIDAE: Melolontha
melolontha, L., M. hippocastan, F., Polyphylla fullo, L., Anoxia pilosa,
F., Rhizotrogus solstitialis, L., Serica brunnea, L.; RuTELIDAE:
Phyllopertha horticola, L., Anisoplia deserticola, Fisch., A. segetum,
Hbst., Anomala praticola, F., A. aenea, de G.; CeTontipAE: Cetonia
aurata, L., Epicometis hirtella, L., Oxythyrea stictica, L., Osmoderma
eremita, Laxm., Gnorimus nobilis, L., Trichius orientalis, Reitt. ;
DyNASTIDAE: Pentodon monodon, F., Oryctes nasicorms, L.; |
GEOTRUPIDAE: Geotrupes stercorarius, L., Lethrus apterus, Laxm.
APHODIIDAE: Aphodius subterraneus, L.; LucantpaE: Lucanus cervus,
L., Dorcus parallelopipedus, L.
Carson (G. M.). List of insecticides and fungicides.—Hntom. Notes,
Territory of Papua, Dept. Agric., Port Moresby. Series A, no. 5
15th Sept. 1913, 3 pp.
The following spray mixtures are tabulated :—Lead arsenate:
Lead arsenate 1lb., water 100 gals.; kerosene emulsion (a): soft
soap 1 quart, hot water 2 quarts, kerosene 1 pint; kerosene emulsion
(6): hard soap 1 lb., boiling water 1 gal., kerosene 2 gals.; red oil
mixture: red oil 1 gal., soft soap 1 lb., water 14 gals. ; resin wash:
resin 20 lb., caustic soda 34 lb., fish oil 3 pints ; resin compound :
powdered resin 3lb., washing soda 3lb., water 1 gal.; Bordeaux
mixture: bluestone 6lb., lime (unslaked) 41b., water 40 gals.
Concise instructions for preparing these and remarks as to their use
are given. The list of chemicals, sprayers, etc., and the section headed
“General Notes,” are of practical value.
Pratt (H. C.) and SoutH (F. W.). Progress Report on Locust Work
since June 1913.—Agric. Bull. F.M.S. Kuala Lumpur, ui, no. 3,
Oct. 1913, pp. 53-59.
The authors report that in Negri Sembilan and Selangor there was a
marked increase of locusts during the first part of the year 1913.
Destruction of large numbers of hoppers has been carried out, though
the work was only in the experimental stage. By far the most
important of the food-plants of these insects are grasses, especially
“lalang” and ‘“love-grass,” commonly found along the roads in those
districts. These form their staple food supply, but should the insects:
111
continue to increase as they are doing, other food will be required. It has
been reported that young coconuts have been destroyed by continued
attacks of flying locusts and hoppers have eaten down the paddy to
below water-line. Of the garden plants, the bamboo is very liable to
attack. Tennis-lawns, golf-greens, padangs and race-courses have
been rendered brown and unsightly by these insects in a few hours.
In the Malay kampongs, sugar-canes, bananas, pine-apples, paddy
and coconuts have been eaten. Slight damage has also been done
to rubber trees by the weight of the insects settling on the branches
or main stems of young plants causing them to snap. The rubber
leaves are only occasionally nibbled.
The driving and pit system of dealing with these insects used in other
parts of the world entails an immense labour force, and much expense
in digging ditches, and on this account can only be used for small
swarms in the Malay States, where a large amount of labour is not
generally available. Moreover, the hoppers are able to get out of the
pits of almost any depth, unless killed upon entering them or prevented
from escaping by a gang of coolies or other means. Another method,
not used in Malaya, is that of driving the hoppers into drainage ditches,
where kerosene has been added to the water. This surface film of
kerosene on the water soon causes their death. Arsenical poisons are
probably effective, but considered too dangerous for use, since the
poisoned grass is liable to be eaten by animals. Spraying with
kerosene, where used in strong emulsion, has deadly effects, but the
damage it causes to the rubber fittings of the sprayers has prevented
its use on a large scale. The only practical method in such a country
consists in driving the young hoppers into V or W-shaped enclosures,
which end in special traps constructed for the purpose, and which can
be erected in three minutes by three coolies. The traps consist of
strong canvas bags, the entrance to which is two feet high, and is
approached by an inclined plane 4 feet each way, which is also the
width of the bag. The remaining two sides and back of the bag are
4 ft. 6 in. high, and the two sides are prolonged into two wings 4 ft. in
length, and attached at the bottom to the sides of the inclined plane.
The whole is supported by iron stakes, furnished at the top with hooks
from which the bag is suspended by steel rings, sewn on to the material
at the corners. The same means is also used to support and stretch
the wings. The shape of the bag is preserved by four bamboo poles
run through folds two feet from the ground. These bamboos are held
in place by iron stakes with rings at the top. Against the front
bamboo the inclined plane is stretched, being held in position by a
bamboo, run through a fold at the bottom and fixed to the ground by
short iron or other stakes. To prevent the escape of hoppers below
the wings and inclined plane, a little earth is thrown on the wings
and in front of the inclined plane.
The escape of the hoppers from the bag is prevented by strips of
American cloth from 6 ins. to 12 ins. wide, which are sewn on the inside
from the height of the opening downwards. The sides of the enclosure
consist of strips of strong calico 4 feet 6 inches wide and 15 yards in
length. This material is very portable. On the inside two parallel
strips of American cloth 6 inches wide are sewn at the height of 3 feet
and 4 feet from the bottom. At the top is attached a rope strongly
sewn on with twine, leaving apertures every inch. The sheeting is
112
suspended from iron stakes 4 feet 6 inches in length, furnished with a
hook and over which the rope is hung. The sheeting is held down by a
continuous line of soil heaped on its free edge.
A quarter of a mile of this apparatus can be placed in position before
an advancing swarm by ten proficient coolies in half an hour. More-
over, it is easy when the swarm is inside the enclosure to cut off their
retreat by closing the open end of the V or W. It has been found that
when a large swarm of hoppers has eaten out the available food supply
behind it that they will pour into trap bags for eleven hours without
stopping, necessitating the erection of further traps, or changing those
that are full, and this with practically no driving. It is a remarkable
sight to see these insects hopping towards the trap, pouring up the
inclined plane and dropping into the trap in a stream that is almost
as regular as a stream of water, killing each other by their weight and
struggling inside the trap. Circling out of the V may occur, but can be
stopped either by placing subsidiary traps on the arms of the wings ~
and facing the original trap, or, which is easier, by modifications in the
erection of the sheeting. In most cases it is desirable to drive the
swarms by means of coolies placed behind them. In one instance,
near Setapak village, with three traps, 300 yards of sheeting and 15
coolies, about two million insects, a portion of a swarm, were destroyed
during the day. Rewards offered to natives for information as to the
locality of breeding grounds or hoppers have been the means of locating
hundreds of swarms.
Pratt (H. C.). The Locust Pest in Malaya; a Short Survey and a
Brief Description of its Life-History.—Agric. Bull. F.M.S., Kuala
Lumpur, ii, no. 4, Nov. 1918, pp. 76-80.
Before organising the campaign against the locust pest several
methods of control were tried, and the most successful was found to be
the driving and trap system. No reliable information as to the origin
of these insects is available. They first appeared in the Malay States
about 20 months ago in the neighbourhood of Port Dickson, and since
then have spread, mostly in a northerly direction, over 100 miles of
country. The life-history of the locust has now been completely
worked out, and the details are given. The species does not appear to
have been identified.
South (F. W.). Work on Locust Destruction in September.—Agric.
Bull. F.M.S., Kuala Lumpur, ui, no. 4, Nov. 1913, pp. 85-88.
In Selangor there were three main centres of distribution of hopping
locusts, the district of Ulu Selangor, the neighbourhood of Kuala
Lumpur and the district between Kuala Lumpur and Kajang. In each
district was a Special Assistant who employed at first only one or two
gangs, though these were increased later as fresh supplies of apparatus
were obtained. The results of the month’s work were 5,322 kerosene
tins full of hoppers in all stages, representing 104 swarms. In addition,
2,083 kerosene tins of hoppers were reported to have been captured by
the Malays in Kuala Kubu districts, working independently with their
own apparatus, copied from that used by the Department. In Negri
Sembilan, at the end of the month, two breeding grounds and one
113
swarm of hoppers had been reported in the Tampin districts. In the
Coast district numerous small swarms occurred, and the Special
Assistant with one gang destroyed 42 swarms. ‘The deficiency in the
amount of apparatus has constituted a severe handicap on the work.
The damage caused by the locusts has not been very serious.
Maskew (F.). The Gunworm of the Grape.—Mthly. Bull. State Com-
miss. Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 10, Oct. 1913, pp. 677-679, 2 figs.
The material used for this description of the gunworm (Sciopteron
regale, Butl.), a Sesiid moth, was taken from some confiscated vine-
cuttings brought from Yokahama to San Francisco by a passenger.
Swellings on the twigs indicated some abnormality, and were found to
contain the larvae of a Sesud borer. These larvae bore into the canes
of the grape-vines and are very destructive in Japan. The paper
concludes with a description of the life-history of the insects by E. O.
Kssig.
Essic (E. O.). The Western Twig Borer.—Mthly. Bull. State Com-
miss. Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 10, Oct. 1913, pp. 681-684, 3 figs.
The author received twigs of apricot trees severely injured by a
Bostrychid beetle, Amphicerus punctipennis, Lec. The burrows, which
may occur anywhere on the twigs, vary from one to three inches in
length and are about one-eighth of an inch in diameter. The beetles
bore into the twigs for food and protection, not to deposit eggs, and the
burrows cause the smaller twigs to break. This species seems to prefer
dead or dying wood. A desert plant (Prosopis juliflora, D.C.), is
reported by Dr. Van Dyke as the normal food-plant, and other known
hosts are pear, dead fig-tree branches, dry canes of the grape-vine,
apricot and dry orange wood. It has a wide distribution in South
West California, Dr. Van Dyke specially mentioning Los Angeles and
Imperial Counties. Control measures suggested are, the destruction
of breeding places if possible, the elimination of unhealthy trees and all
dead wood, and the maintenance of trees in good growing vigour.
VaILeE (R.8.). Effects of Hot Weather on Lemon Trees Sprayed with
Lime-Sulphur. Mthly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento,
li, no. 10, Oct. 1913, p. 692.
Lemon trees sprayed with both Rex and Ortho lime-sulphur
solutions ten days before the excessive heat were found to be very
seriously burned, and a large proportion of the fruit was completely
ruined. The author states that he has never seen spray injury due
to heat arise after so long an interval.
VosLeR (HE. J.). Calendar of Insects Pests and Plant Diseases.— Mthly.
Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 10, Oct. 1913,
pp. 695-699, 1 fig.
Among the deciduous and citrus fruit insects the fall cankerworm
(Alsophila pometaria, Harr.) is known as a pest of apple, prune, cherry,
and apricot. The eggs are attached to the bark in masses of from
114
60 to 200, placed in exposed situations by the wingless females which
emerge from the middle of October to the middle of December. The
use of bands around the tree-trunk, placed in September and October,
has been recommended to trap the females as they ascend the trunks
to deposit their eggs.
The use of distillate emulsion for spraying for the black scale on
olive is recommended by E. O. Essig, his formula being 20 gals. of
distillate (28 degrees Baumé), 30 pounds of whale-oil soap and 12
gallons of water; dissolve the whale-oil soap in the water, heating it
to the boiling point, add the distillate and agitate thoroughly while
the solution is hot ; for use, add 20 gals. of water to each gallon of the
above mixture. The crude oil emulsion (formula given below) is also
recommended. For the brown apricot scale, Essig recommends spray-
ing with caustic soda and distillate, or distillate emulsion and crude
oil emulsion, when the trees are dormant. The formula for the distillate
emulsion is the same as that for the black scale. The formula for the
caustic soda mixture is: Water, 200 gals.; caustic soda (95 per cent.),
7lb.; and 10 gals. of distillate (28 degrees Baumé). Fill the spray tank
with the required amount of water, add the caustic soda which has
been dissolved in a small amount of water, and then add the distillate ;
keep the agitator going rapidly while applying the spray. For the
crude oil emulsion the formula is: Water, 175 gals.; liquid soap, 3 gals.;
and crude oil (direct from wells) 25 gals. Fill the spray tank with
water, add the liquid soap, agitate for one minute, then add the crude
oil, continuing the agitation while the spray is being applied.
Fumigation is also recommended as soon as possible after the young
scales are hatched. Three-fourths or even half of the regular schedule
No. 1 may be used, a two-thirds dosage appearing to do as well as a
full dosage.
Among the cereal and forage crop insects, the clover seed Chalcid
(Bruchophagus funebris, How.) is reported as a serious pest. This
Chalcid will infest the seed of red and crimson clover, besides alfalfa,
a favourite host; they feed on the substance of the seed and often
totally destroy the contents. The eggs are deposited in the seeds.
The adults do not emerge from the seeds till the following spring or
early summer. Remedies for this pest are in an experimental stage.
Professor F. M. Webster suggests as a preventive measure the destruction
of all outstanding alfalfa plants in the autumn, the chaff and stems to be
burned. Delaying the seed crop by early pasturing or clipping of the
first growth in the spring until the seed Chalcid has done most of its
destructive work, promises to be useful as a control measure.
For the destruction of locusts or grasshoppers a mixture used by the
Government of South Africa is recommended. This consists of one
gallon of treacle mixed with one half gallon watery solution of arsenite
of soda (69 per cent. white arsenic). This mixture is diluted for newly-
hatched locusts to one part to 66 of water; when used against locusts
two weeks old, it is diluted one part to 50 of water. Where the
application is made in fields not accessible to domestic animals, farmers
have used it as strong as one to 30 or 40. Since the egg-masses of
grasshoppers are deposited in the hard, uncultivated lands during the
late summer and early autumn, ploughing, harrowing, and disking
such waste lands to a depth of several inches in the late autumn will
lessen future attacks.
115
For the destruction of the alfalfa caterpillar (Autographa gamma
californica, Speyer), renovation of alfalfa fields during the winter
months is recommended. This will destroy large numbers of the
hibernating pupae. Pasturing the fields will also aid in the
destruction of the resting stage of this insect. Among the truck crop
insects the corn ear worm (Chloridea obsoleta) has been reported as
causing much damage to tomatoes. The use of an early trap crop,
as well as early maturing varieties, the hand-picking of infested
tomatoes to prevent the larvae spreading, autumn ploughing of infested
ground, and the proper disposal of unsaleable infected tomatoes, will
help in the protection of the next year’s crop.
Essie (E. O.). Inseet Notes.—Mthly Bull. State Commiss. Hortic.,
Sacramento, ti, no. 10, Oct. 1913, p. 705.
Asterolecanium variolosum has been reported as working on oak trees
at Stackton by F. Maskew. Young pine trees (Pinus radiata, Don.)
have been seriously damaged by Ips (Tomicus) confusus. A new
Kermes has been found working on Quercus agrifolia, Neé.
Strone (L. A.). A Fortunate Find.—Mthly. Bull. State Commiss.
Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 10, Oct. 1913, pp. 709-711, 1 fig.
Examination of “Kamani nuts” (Terminalia catappa) brought °
from Honolulu and destined for planting in Southern California,
showed them to be badly infested with living larvae of the Mediter-
ranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata, Wied.), and they were consequently
confiscated. Had this been overlooked the worst known insect pest
of fruit and vegetables would probably have been established in
California.
VosLeR (EK. J.). Zebra Caterpillar (Mamestra picta, Harris).—Mthly.
Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 11, Nov. 1913,
pp. 713-715.
The eggs of this caterpillar are deposited on the alfalfa leaves, and
hatch ina few days. The young larvae eat the epidermis of the leaves,
which soon appear whitish from their attacks, and they web the tops
of the alfalfa stalks together. In the young stages the larvae work in
colonies and only on the upper more tender portions of the plant.
In an alfalfa field at Salt Lake, Utah, it was noted that in the latter
part of September and in the early days of October when the leaves of
alfalfa were becoming too tough, the larvae migrated to the edges of
the field to feed on the tender growth of dock. From September to
October the caterpillars enter the soil to pupate. At present the best
method of control for this pest is picking and destroying infested tops.
If the fields are pastured at this time of the year little damage will
result from this insect’s attack. This moth occurs in the Atlantic
States, Colorado, Utah, and California. It also attacks cabbage,
celery, beets, and other garden vegetables. A species of Tachinid fly
and an Ichneumonid (Campoplex) have been reared from M. picta
The Campoplex emerges from the larva at about the third stage.
116
Essic (E. O.). A Serious Philippine Orange Moth.—Mthly. Bull. State
Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, ii, no. 11, Nov. 1913, pp. 722-
723, 1 fig.
The author states that Professor C. F. Baker has called particular
attention to a small moth which works in a variety of native orange in
the Philippines, called the “cajel.” It has been determined as
Prays citri, Mill., of which Prays nephelomima, Meyrick, is a synonym.
The larvae of this moth live just beneath the rind next to, but not in, the
pulp. They produce gall-like tumours, which are often exceedingly
numerous, and which remain open at the tips, affording excellent
germinating places for destructive fungi. The opening is usually
about one-eighth of an inch in diameter. The danger of the intro-
duction of this moth into California is greatly reduced by the quarantine
laws, which are being maintained against all countries where the fruit
flies (TRYPETIDAE) are known to exist. The recognition of the pest by
quarantine offices may prevent its introduction from some other section
of the world where these laws do not apply.
General Notes.—Mthly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, i, -
no. 11, Nov. 1913, pp. 724-728, 731.
K. O. Essig notes some of the discoveries of Professor C. F. Baker in
the Philippine Islands with regard to fruit flies. The melon maggot,
‘ Dacus cucurbitae, Coq., is abundant there; and another fly, the
maggots of which he found swarming in wild oranges, proved to be a
new genus and a new species named by Bezzi, Monacrostichus citricola.
Professor R. W. Doane has recently collected the Queensland fruit fly,
D. zonatus, Coq., on the Island of Tahiti. All these fruit flies are serious
pests, so these records are of value to the horticultural quarantine
departments. E. O. Essig also quotes the formula of a spray for the
control of tomato Thrips, devised by R. T. Watson, of the Florida
Agricultural Experiment Station, which, on a trial piece, killed 78
per cent. of the Thrips. The mixture consists of commercial lme-
sulphur (33° Baumé), 54 gals.; ‘‘ Black-leaf 40,” 14 fluid ounces ;
water, 200 gals.
A. J. Cook records the occurrence in California of an as yet
undescribed weevil, which was found in large numbers doing no little
damage to the tender foliage of apricot trees. The occurrence of a
new species in large numbers all at once is difficult to explain. Possibly
it is an importation or it may have come from some indigenous wild
plant. This new beetle is an Otiorrhynchid allied to Fuller’s rose beetle,
Aramgus fuller, the larvae of which feed upon the roots of roses,
raspberries, blackberries, and other rosaceous plants. It is not known
upon what this new pest feeds in the larval stage; the beetle does not
appear till midsummer.
C. W. Beers reports a millipede doing considerable damage to the
tender roots of vines in Santa Barbara county. B. R. Jones also
reports it as doing serious harm to lettuces; it feeds largely on decay-
ing vegetable matter. The dark blue blister beetle, Cantharis stygica,
Lec., is reported to have done considerable damage to buds and
blossoms of asters in Philo, Mendocino County, Cal. The red-humped
caterpillar, Schizura concinna, 8. and A., has been attacking the foliage
|
j
117
of apples, prunes, cherries, pears, and walnuts at Modesto. R.S. Vaile
has reared from Aspidiotus hederae, Vall., Aspidiotiphagus citrinus,
Crwf., and Aphelinus fuscipennis, Howard. Chelonus shoshoneanorum,
Vier., has been reared from the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea
operculella by H. A. Weinland of San Diego County.
Voster (E. J.). Calendar of Insect Pests and Plant Diseases.— Wthly.
Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, i, no. 11, Nov. 1913,
pp. 729-730.
The squash bug winters in the adult stage under rubbish and among
old vines. Clean culture is therefore an important remedial measure.
Insects in stored products, such as the grain weevil, pea weevils, flour
moths, etc., are best checked by fumigation with carbon bisulphide.
An air-tight fumigating room is an essential. Pour the carbon
bisulphide into shallow dishes and place in the bins, using 5 lb. to 1,000
cubic feet of space. The temperature should be 70° Fahr. or above for
the best results. Insects in greenhouses, such as red spiders and mealy
bugs, are best checked by syringing the plants forcibly with water two
or three times a day. The caterpillars of the California tussock moth
feed upon young fruit and foliage. This pest spends the winter in the
ege stage, the eggs being in masses attached to the trunks of trees and
adjacent objects; the hand-picking of egg-masses will greatly reduce
their numbers.
BatuarD (H.). Pests of Stored Grain.—Supplement No. 4 to the
Nyasaland Government Gazette, Zomba, xx, no. 12, 29th Nov. 1913,
p. 298.
A short account is given of pests of stored grain in Nyasaland, the
two chief of which are the Grain Moth (Sitotroga cerealella, Ol.), and the
Rice Weevil (Calandra oryzae, L.). With these is often found another
beetle, Triboliwm confusum, Duv., which, however, does no serious
damage. Fumigating with carbon bisulphide is recommended.
Frencw (C. Jr.). Inseet Pests of the Potato—QJl. Dept. Agric. of
Victoria, Melbourne, xi, pt. 12, Dec. 1913, pp. 729-748, 13 pl.
The dreaded Colorado beetle and a few other pests prevalent in
America and elsewhere are absent from Australia, and with the careful
Inspection and quarantine in Melbourne of all potatoes arriving from
abroad, growers have little fear of new pests being introduced. The
Potato Thrips, Thrips tabaci, Lind., has caused considerable losses,
and appears to be on the increase. They attack plants of all kinds.
If débris is examined during the winter, they are found in great
numbers ; the first warm days of October brings them out in thousands,
and on the underside of the potato leaves they will be found in varying
stages of development. Total development occupies 10-15 days in
Victoria. The thrips pest is a serious one, and unless definite measures
are taken against it, it will be impossible to grow good crops; the
lower leaves of the plant are attacked first and as these are destroyed
the top ones are affected in turn. All débris on potato fields should be
destroyed; by this means hibernating insects and their eggs will be
118
eradicated. Various spraying methods have given good results.
Mr. G. Seymour and the author used tobacco wash with a Strawsonizer
spraying outfit; the formula for the tobacco wash is as follows:
Steep 1 lb. of tobacco in | gal. hot water, and soak for 24 hours; _ boil
1lb. soap in 1 gal. water; strain the tobacco water into the soap
water; stir, and make up to 5 or 6 gals. Benzol emulsion, costing
about 4d. per Ib., has proved effective; 11lb. makes 5 or 6 gals. of
spray. Hellebore or a weak kerosene emulsion has also given good
results. In America the use of lime in the following proportions has
been recommended: 35 1b. lime to 100 gals. water. Mr. Moulton,
who has experimented with thrips in America, advocates the use of
oil and water in making up the tobacco spraying fluid, and gives the
following formula :—Distillate oil emulsion, 14 to 2 per cent. solution ;
black leaf tobacco extract, 1 part to 60 parts of water. The distillate
oil emulsion is prepared as follows :—Hot water, 12 gals. ; white oil or
fish oil soap, 301b.; distillate oil (23 degrees, Baumé), 20 gals. The
soap is dissolved in a kettleful of boiling water and poured into the
spray tank; the oil is added and the mixture agitated violently, and
sprayed under a pressure of 125-150 lb. into other barrels. This stock
solution is diluted before use with 24 gals. of water to each gallon of
solution. As a deterrent against thrips coal-tar water has been
recommended. Boil 1 lb. coal-tar in 2 gals. water, and while hot,
add from 50 to 100 gals. more water.
Cutworms and looper caterpillars, army worms, etc., have been
destructive to potato crops. Especially mentioned are the Silvery
Moth (Plusia argentifera), the Potato Looper Moth (P. verticillata),
Chloridea obsoleta and Leucania sp. By the eradication of weeds and
the burning of haulms and stems of harvested crops, many eggs are
destroyed. Placing bundles of succulent plants, which have previously
been dipped into a mixture of Paris green (1 oz. to 39 gals. of water)
between the rows of potato plants will kill a large number of the cater-
pillars, and is harmless to the potatoes. Poisoned bran has been
successfully tried, especially against the Silvery Moth. The author
recommends the poisoning of lucerne or other green stuff, to be
distributed as a bait. One lb. of arsenate of soda is dissolved in 10 gals.
of water, to which 8 lb. of treacle or brown sugar is added ;_ the green
stuff is moistened with the hquid and scattered broadcast, preferably a
few days after the ground has been ploughed. Where a spray is used
instead of bait, arsenate of lead has proved one of the best. The
trench system is a simple and effective method of eradication; a
trench is dug around the crop, it must have clean cut sides, and the
sides nearest the crop should be undercut to prevent the worms from
crawling out of the trench. Deep holes should be made in the trench
at intervals of about five yards. When travelling towards the crop the
cutworms fall into the trench, and crawling along it fall into the holes,
where earth should be thrown over them and pressed down.
The Potato Moth (Phthorwmaea solanella, Boisd.) is the worst potato
pest in Australia. The young larvae usually feed upon the eyes of the
potato; they then tunnel towards the centre of the tubers, causing
them to turn brownish-black, and inducing decay. The pupae are
attacked by various parasites and bacterial diseases, which destroy
sreat numbers. All débrisin the fields should be burnt. Seed infected
with the grubs should never be planted, nor should ground where
a
affected potatoes have been grown be used again for the same crop.
Potatoes should never be left exposed in the field or store-room, but
placed at once in bins, pits or any other receptacle where the moths
cannot reach them. Trapping by means of lamps is of use in destroy-
ing the moths, which fly at night. Spraying the crops, when the moths
begin to appear is advisable, as this will destroy the young grubs as
soon as they begin to feed. A good arsenical spray is prepared as
follows :—Boil 1 lb. white arsenic and 2 lb. carbonate of soda (crystals)
in 4 gal. of water for 20 minutes; separately dissolve 7 lb. arsenate
of lead in 1 gal. warm water; when both mixtures are cold, mix them
together. Bottle into twelve 1-pint bottles, and use one bottle to
30 gals. of water. Mix the chemicals in wooden buckets.
The Potato and Tomato Weevil (Desiantha nociva, Lea) is a com-
paratively new pest of the potato. It does considerable damage, and
both larvae and adults are equally destructive ; it is a prolific breeder,
and every possible means should be taken to prevent its spread. All
weeds, especially marshmallows, on land adjoining potato crops
should be destroyed. Arsenate of lead spray has been experimentally
proved to keep the pest in check.
Jassids, Leafhoppers or Froghoppers are found in large numbers,
occasionally doing damage to young leaves and shoots. If the damage
bids fair to be serious it would be necessary to spray the crop with
benzol emulsion, 1 lb. to 5 gals. of water.
The Rutherglen Bug (Nyszus vinitor) is one of the most destructive
of plant bugs in Victoria. The prevention and remedies are those
which are recommended for thrips.
A large number of species of wire worms (ELATERIDAE) are found in
Victoria, where however, they do not make much headway, owing no
doubt to natural enemies. One of the best methods of keeping wire
worms under control is to turn the ground over frequently, exposing
the insects to birds. Poisoned baits, made by cutting up a few turnips,
carrots, etc., and soaking them in arsenate of lead, have given good
results. Manurial insecticides worked into the soil have also been
tried with success.
The Victorian White Ant (Termes lactis, Froggatt) is a destroyer of
timber and furniture, as well as apricot, plum and other fruit trees,
vines, potatoes, etc. Although it has so far caused no serious damage
to potatoes, it should be watched, and, if the circumstances warrant, all
old stumps, etc., which harbour the insect should be removed. Another
plan is to dig Vaporite into the soil, which is then pressed firmly down ;
the quantity of Vaporite used is generally at the rate of 225 lb. per acre
for light soils, and about 350 lb. for heavy soils. Manurial insecticide
worked into the soil has given good results.
Symons (T. B.) and Cory (E.N.). Miscellaneous Insect Pests.—
Maryland Agric. Exper. Sta., College Park, Bull. 175, March
1913, pp. 171-179. [Received 3lst Jan. 1914.]
A formula is given for a lime-sulphur spray against San José scale
(Aspidiotus perniciosus), and for terrapin scale, (Lecaniwm nigrofas-
cuatum), a standard miscible oil at a strength of 1:15, applied to the
tree as late in the spring as possible, is recommended. The woolly
apple aphis (EZriosoma lanigerum) is stated to be very common in apple
120
orchards, and of numerous remedies tried, 10 per cent. kerosene
emulsion seems to be the most effective against this and other aphids.
The loss caused by Hessian Fly (Mayetiola destructor) is periodic, but
has increased during the last two years in Maryland. When wheat is
infested in winter or early spring it is best to pasture sheep in the field,
that they may eat the wheat down to the roots. As the insect passes
the summer in the wheat stubble, this should be burned over or
ploughed under as soon as possible after harvest. Rotation of crops
is very beneficial. A list of cities and towns is given and dates before
which wheat should not be sown in these places. In 1912, alfalfa,
corn, millet, lawns and other crops or plants in their vicinity were
seriously damaged by the fall army worm (Laphygma frugiperda).
The larvae can be controlled by the use of poisoned bait spread over
the infested area. The pickle worm (Diaphania nitidalis) also caused
considerable damage to cucumbers, melons, and early and late squashes
and pumpkins in 1912. The moth deposits her eggs in the blossoms
and the larvae enter the young fruits, where they live until mature.
A trap crop, coming into blossom before the main crop, is a valuable
method of collecting the eggs and larvae. All rubbish after the crop
is taken should be burned. Widespread injury has been done to black
locust trees, especially along the Potomac River, by the locust Hispid
(Chalepus dorsalis). The larvae of this insect feed between the two
surfaces of the leaf, where they also pupate. A poison spray of 4 lb.
arsenate of lead to 50 gals. water was very effective, and the use of
soap in the spray was found to make the solution adhere to the foliage
better. Burning over the wood lots in late autumn may prove bene-
ficial. The orange-striped oak worm (Anisota senatoria) has caused
considerable defoliation of the pin-oaks, and severe injury in some
nurseries. Two pounds of arsenate of lead to fifty gallons of water
used as a spray will control the pest.
Cory (EH. N.). The Peach-Tree Borer.—Maryland Agric. Expt. Sta.,
College Park, Bull. 176, April 1913, pp. 181-218, 14 figs. [Received
dist Jan. 1914.]
The peach-tree borer (Sanninoidea exitiosa, Say) has been known to
horticulturists for over 150 years. It has been found breeding in plum,
both wild and cultivated, cherry, June berry, flowering almond,
nectarine, apricot, azalea, peach trees and shrubs. Wild cherry is
probably the native food-plant. The author gives details of several
breeding experiments, and notes that the greatest number of eggs
deposited by one moth was 161, the greatest number in one place 47
and of all eggs deposited, 390 were on the leaves and 67 on the trunk.
The larvae bore into the trunk, feed all the summer, usually in the
cambium, and in the autumn work down below ground level. Those
entering the trunk higher up rarely reach maturity, possibly owing ~
to extremes of temperature. The pupal stage lasts about 22-23 days.
From the eggs the parasite, Telenomus quaintancei, Gir., was reared,
while a species of Bracon and of Macrodyctvum have been bred from
the pupae.
A table and explanatory notes are given showing numerous control
measures tried and their results. The author states that, owing to
the habits of oviposition of the moths, mechanical barriers cannot be
121
recommended ; repellent washes that depend upon their odour for
their effect are useless ; coatings intended to present physical difficulties
to the entrance of the larvae are ineffective ; poison coatings are too
readily washed off; and materials used at the base as repellents are
ineffective and in some cases dangerous. Banking earth against the
trunks to the height of six inches or more has proved the best practice
that can be recommended, as the larvae are thus driven to enter at a
higher point than normally would be the case. This facilitates the
removal of the larva and reduces the cost. Extracting the larvae
is certainly effective and when done carefully need not injure the trees.
This should be done with a sharp knife and a light wire ending in a
small hook; with this the larvae can often be drawn from the burrow.
The trees should be “ wormed ” as late in the autumn as practicable
and again in May. To facilitate the work the earth should be drawn
away from the trunks to a depth of six inches and the root crowns
scraped at least one day before the “ worming” is begun. The paper
concludes with a lengthy bibliography.
Davis (J. J.). Common white-grubs.—U.S. Dept. Agric., Washington,
Farmers’ Bull. 543, 18th July 1913, 20 pp. 12 figs. [Received
5th Feb. 1914.]
The most serious outbreak of white grubs (Lachnosterna) recorded
in the States occurred in 1912, when over 12 million dollars worth of
damage was done, mostly in Iowa, Wisconsin, Ilhnois, Pennsylvania,
New York, Connecticut and New Jersey. Available records show
that May beetles were unusually abundant in 1908, the grubs causing
considerable damage in Wisconsin, Illinois, etc. in 1909, and yet more
in 1912. The beetles were very numerous in the spring of 1911, thus
giving rather conclusive evidence that the life-cycle of the more
abundant and numerous species in those localities is uniformly three
years. It is, therefore, reasonably certain that in 1914 the beetles
will again be unusually plentiful, and the year following (1915) the
grubs will be exceedingly abundant and destructive if uncontrolled,
either naturally or artificially. The grubs do the greatest amount of
damage in their second year and to the early plantings in their third
year. From all observations small grains are less attacked than are
corn, timothy, strawberries and potatoes. It is important that the
grubs of May beetles should not be confused with similar but non-
injurious grubs, or with others which may be injurious but require
different methods of control. The grubs of May beetles are not known
to breed in manure or refuse of any kind ; those generally found in such
places being the immature forms of certain brown beetles (Ligyrus
gibbosus, de G., and L. relictus, Say) which frequent light in the same
manner as the May beetle. The white grubs and May beetles are
preyed upon by numerous enemies, the most important being birds,
in the stomachs of 60 species of which the Biological Survey has found
these insects. Crows and crow blackbirds are particularly useful, and
an instance is given when one of the latter destroyed in all 20 grubs
in about one or two minutes. The skunk is probably the most valuable
of undomesticated mammals, so that farmers have begun to protect
it. Of predaceous and parasitic insects the black digger wasp (Tiphia
wmornata, Say), another wasp (Elis sexcincta), and a fly (Pyrgota undata)
(C11) E
'
.
122
appear the most beneficial. The knowledge of the several fungous
and bacterial diseases reported as attacking the grubs and beetles is
as yet superficial and their value for this purpose is still an open
question. The author states that all general measures of control
recommended are preventive rather than remedial, for once white
grubs are present the crop cannot be protected from their ravages.
But certain cultural and other practices will greatly minimise the
damage in succeeding years. Domestic fowls should be given the run —
of infested fields, especially when the land is being ploughed. Hogs will
thoroughly clear an infested field if pastured on it any time between
April and October. They are very fond of grubs and root to a depth of
a foot or more in search of them; but in winter the grubs go much
deeper and thus escape destruction. It should be noted that the
giant thorn-headed worm, Echinorynchus gigas, an intestinal worm
attacking swine, passes one of the early stages of its life within the
white grub, which has been infested through the excrement of infested
swine. In this connection Dr. 8. A. Forbes says: “ Pigs which have
never been pastured are certain to be free from these parasites, and
grubs growing in fields which have not been pastured by pigs are
likewise certain to be free from them. The use of such pigs on such
fields would consequently be without danger from this source, and a
little attention to these facts will avoid any injurious consequences.
That is, if pigs not previously allowed to run out are turned into fields
on which pigs have not been pastured within three years, there will
_ be no danger that they will become infested by these thorn-headed
worms.” During the years of great abundance of the beetles, hogs
should be turned into orchards and timber lots during the period of
flight and will eagerly seek them out, just beneath the surface of the
soil or near trees where they pass the day. Autumn ploughing is
very useful. Ordinarily the best time is between Ist and 15th October,
as later on the grubs go too far down. The rotation of crops is also
very useful, and since the eggs are usually deposited in fields of grass,
timothy, and small grains it is evident that such crops as buckwheat,
clover, alfalfa, and peas should be planted in the year following a
season of beetle abundance. Collection of the beetles is effective where
whole communities or neighbourhoods co-operate in the work. It is
in the early morning, before 4.30 a.m., that the beetles are most easily
shaken off the trees, and each female destroyed early in the season
means the destruction of from 50 to 100 potential grubs. Where it.
is possible to secure cheap labour, collecting the grubs in the wake of
the plough is practicable, especially where they are numerous. Light.
traps are not satisfactory as they attract hardly any female beetles.
Spraying with Paris green or lead arsenate is effective, but usually
impracticable owing to the large size of the trees upon which the
beetles feed. With a more definite knowledge of the food-plants
preferred, low-growing trees and shrubs might be planted as traps
where the beetles could be sprayed.
No reliable remedy can be offered for the destruction of grubs in
lawns ; but poultry, especially turkeys, might be allowed to run on
them. Hogs would tear up the roots. Perhaps removal of the sods,
collection of the grubs, and, later, autumn ploughing, will prove satis-
factory. In cases of mild infestation a commercial fertiliser will
probably assist the grass in overcoming the grub injury. Dealing
er ee ee eee Se Se!
—
125
with Melolontha in Europe, Decoppet injected carbon bisulphide
into the soil at a depth not exceeding six inches, at the rate of 1 to 14
ounces in 6 or 8 holes per square yard, and this has been found to
diminish the number of grubs considerably. Excellent results are
obtained by this means against those of the southern green June
beetle in the lawns of the Southern States, and it is probable that this
method will prove successful with the white grub in lawns. The holes
should be plugged with soil or sod to prevent the fumes escaping, and
it must be remembered that carbon bisulphide is highly inflammable
and forms an explosive compound when mixed with air.
GASTINE (G.). Daaspis pentagona (Cochenille du Murier). [The mul-
berry scale.|—Librairie agricole de la Maison Rustique, Paris,
N.D., 45 pp., 9 figs; price 30 centimes.
This is one of a series of popular booklets, each treating of a single
subject and written by a specialist. The author points out that the
scale-insects and aphids may be considered the most dangerous agri-
cultural pests known, and as through the agency of its agile larvae
Diaspis pentagona spreads quickly afar, the greatest energy must be
employed against it. In its country of origin, the Japanese regard
this scale as the worst enemy of the mulberry and other fruit trees,
and its rapid dispersal throughout the world is due to shipments of
infested plants on which the insect defies the most unfavourable con-
ditions; for it can survive extreme cold and even dessicated
fragments of a twig suffice for its subsistence. The author suggests
that the destruction by fire of any infested plants imported into a
clean country is the only safe measure. Should this be impracticable,
scrubbing with wire brushes followed by the burning of all the débris
and the thorough application of an insecticide is the best method, the
solution being sprayed on the branches and brushed into the bark of
the trunk and larger branches. The latest formulae officially advised
in Italy are: (1) A. heavy coal-tar oil 22 oz., crude oil of turpentine
24 oz., B. common sea-salt 22 oz., wheat flour + 0z., water 2 gallons ;
(2) A. crude petroleum 22 oz., ordinary fish oil 24 oz., crude oil of
turpentine 14 oz., B. common salt 22 oz., wheat flour 4 oz., water 2
gallons; (3) A. mixture of mineral oils (density 1:05), called Eusol in
Italy, 22 oz., B. common salt 3 oz., wheat flour + oz., water 2 gallons.
To prepare any of these the salt is dissolved in the water and the flour
mixed in. The oily mixture A, already prepared, is gradually added
with very energetic stirring in order to obtain a homogeneous solution.
As the component parts tend to separate very readily the author sug-
gests the use of Saponin, which produces permanent emulsions easily.
Saponin is not obtainable commercially, but many vegetable products
contain this substance, the fruit of Sapindus utilis being richest in it.
Saponin represents about 50 per cent. of the pericarp, which itself is
about 684 per cent. of the total fruit, and as it dissolves out in water
the pericarp may be conveniently employed for the purpose. The
author gives four formulae: (1) A., heavy coal-tar oil 2 lb., B. saponin
solution obtained by extracting 1 oz. of Sapindus pericarp in 2 gals.
of water; (2) petroleum oil or crude petroleum 2 lb., B. saponin solu-
tion as above; (3) homogeneous emulsion—A., clear heavy coal-tar
oil (density 1045) 20 oz., medium coal-tar oil (density 950) 124 oz.,
(C11) E 2
124
B. saponin solution as above; (4) homogeneous emulsion—A. clear
heavy coal-tar oil (density 1045) 284 oz., petroleum (density 800) .
41 oz; B. saponin solution as above. To prepare solution B.,
Sapindus pericarp (1 oz.) is boiled for a few minutes in
water (1 pint taken from the 2 gallons) and when sufficiently
soft 1t is mashed to facilitate solution of the saponin. This prepara-
tion is passed through a No. 65 (French) sieve, as the insoluble
particles would clog the sprayer. To extract all the saponin this insoluble
residue is placed in the remaining 15 pints of water and again strained
out. Into the saponin solution (B) the oily mixture (A) is gradually
poured with energetic mixing, when the fine oil globules will remain
in suspension. [Cf. this Review, A, 1, p. 238.] If the oily mixture
is heavier than the water it will sink, if hghter, it will float, but the
slightest shake will cause uniform admixture; with equal densities
the emulsion is permanently homogeneous. The author pomts out
that though his formulae are stronger than the Italian ones, yet
owing to the perfect emulsification the shoots are in less danger
of being harmed. All the foregoing sprays are for winter use.
Should it be desirable to follow up the treatment by spring and
summer applications, the percentage of the coal-tar and petroleum
oils must be reduced to 1:5 per cent. or 2 per cent. at the most,
as otherwise damage will be done. Hither the saponin solution
may be used, or 1d oz. of white soap dissolved in the 2 gals. of water
when the latter is at boiling point ; soft soap contains too many im-
purities. The insecticide is used as a spray and the first application
made when the young larvae appear, is followed by a second at 10
days’ interval. The men must be protected by gloves and masks with
glazed eye-holes.
The author mentions Prospaltella berlesei, a small Chaleid fly now
being tested in many parts of Italy and which Berlese hopes will check
D. pentagona. Other parasites are being studied in Italy, especially
by Silvestri. But at the present time direct methods of control are
the only ones in real use. The author concludes by giving a list of
some 50 different trees and plants affected by the pest and remarks
that this list can be added to daily.
Henrico (C.). Die Blattlause Aphiden der Umgebung von Hermann-
stadt. [Aphid plant lice in the neighbourhood of Hermannstadt. ||
—Verh. und Mitt. Srebenbiirgischen Ver. Naturwiss. zu Hermann-
stadt, lxii, no. 6, 1913, pp. 195-201.
The present paper forms a supplement to one published by the
author on Aphids in 1909. Since then some additional species have
been discovered by him in the environs of Hermannstadt, among
which are: Mindarus abtetinus, Koch, on Abies pectinata ; Pemphigus
piriformis, Licht., P. bursarvus, L., P. borealis, Tullgren, and P. Lich-
tenstent, Tullgren, all on Populus pyramidalis and P. mgra; and
Phylloxera acanthochermes, Lichtst., on oak.
Suc (K.). Zur Kenntnis einiger Psylla-Arten aus dem Ungarischen
National Museum in Budapest. [On some species of Psylla from
the Hungarian National Museum. |—Ann. Mus. Nat. Hungariei,
Budapest, xi, pt. 2, 1913, pp. 409-435. |
Seven species of the genus Psylla are described from specimens in a
125
collection from the Hungarian National Museum. Two species are
new, namely P. groenlandica and P. horvathi the former from Green-
land and the latter from Hungary ; their life-history and habits are as
yet unknown. The species P. hexastigma, Horvath, is of economic
interest, as it attacks the leaves and fruit of the pear; its larva is
unknown. It occurs in Eastern Siberia and Japan.
Sur l’emploi des arsenicaux en agriculture. {The use of arsenicals in
agriculture |.—Bull. Agric. de |’ Algérie et de la Tunisie, Algiers,
xix, no. 19, lst Oct. 1913, pp. 378-380.
The Commission des Substances vénéneuses has handed to the Acadé-
mie de Médecine, Paris, their new report on a long-delayed regulation
to modify that of 1846 regarding the use of poisons. Part of the
report deals with arsenicals used in agriculture. Subject to safe-
guards the Académie authorised, in 1910, the use of the potent but
dangerous arsenical insecticides, with the exception of lead arsenate,
which had just begun to be employed. Its use is now general, as a
consequence of its very valuable properties, and it was necessary to
decide whether to prohibit it, or to permit it under specified rules.
The report recommends the latter course, pointing out that the U.S.
Minister of Agriculture specially advises lead arsenate in preference to
other insecticides, so that the French markets will be flooded with
foreign produce if the French agriculturist is not provided with weapons
equal to those of his rivals. Regarding the sale and use of arsenicals,
especially lead arsenate, the Report expresses the following desiderata—
. (1) That the regulations be strictly observed; (2) that the Minis-
terial decrees determining the precautions to be taken by users of the
products and the conditions under which they may be used, be clearly
and minutely detailed, billed everywhere, and brought to public notice,
and any infringement severely punished; all this to be especially
applicable to lead arsenate; (3) that the Government initiate and
encourage research, with the object of replacing such dangerous insecti-
cides by methods harmless to man and domestic animals.
In order to prevent food-plants being wetted by drippings from
trees and vines above them, the Commission propose to introduce a
clause formally prohibiting the use of arsenicals (or other insecticides
of Table A of the regulations) for market-gardens and fodder plants.
"Cros (A.). La Mouche de VOlivier. [The Olive Fly.]—Bull. Agric.
de |’ Algérie et de la Tunisie, Algiers, xix, no. 22, 15th Nov. 1913,
pp. 467-468.
Karly in 1913 the author drew attention to the enormous proportion
of olives in the neighbourhood of Mascara (Oran, Algeria) attacked by
Dacus oleae and the presence at the same time of a small Ichneumonid.
He made a special study of both insects on a completely isolated olive
tree which was not treated in any way against the pest in 1912. In
that year not a single sound olive was obtained, but in September
1913, though the tree bore well, there was no sign whatever of attack
by the fly. He attributes this to the activity of the parasite, and
remarks that had the tree been sprayed, the good results would have
been attributed to the spray and not to the parasite. The author is
not altogether satisfied that spraying per se is entitled to the great
credit it has obtained.
126
* MACGILLIVRAY (A. D.). The Immature Stages of the Tenthredinoidea.
—Canadian Entomologist, xlv, no. 11, Nov. 1913, pp. 367-371.
A general account of the larval habits of the various families of
sawflies.
Mackie (D. B.). The Philippine Locust (Pachytylus | Locusta] migra-
toroides, R. & F.); Natural Influences affecting its Propagation
and Distribution.— Philippine Agric. Review, Manila, vi, no. 11,
1913, pp. 538-547, 2 pis.
The chief forces which operate for or against any species may be
stated as climate, food supply and enemies. Climatic influences exert
the greatest check on locusts. Cold weather causes them to hibernate
for extended periods, though this is seldom the case in the Philippines.
Winds are important in locust distribution and control. Moderate
winds often enable swarms to make long, sustained flights, even
crossing from island to island, as irom Cebu to Negros. High winds
tend to keep locusts near the ground and to prevent extended flights,
and severe winds often work great havoc with locust swarms, at times
completely annihilating them. Locusts seldom fly during rains.
The results of a typhoon are often disastrous to the swarm, the locusts
being killed in large numbers by the vegetation being whipped about
by the high winds, while the wings of the adults are often torn to such
an extent that further flight is impossible, so that the females are
forced to lay their eggs on unsuitable ground, which results in a low
percentage of them hatching. Floods are important as locust destroyers,
especially when large areas on which locusts have oviposited
become flooded and quantities of silt deposited over the eggs which
effectually prevents the hoppers from emerging. Drought seems to
exert a powerful influence in the increase of the pest, since dry weather
is inimical to locust parasites. Drought may also induce migrations.
Lack of food might also cause the migratory instinct to assert itself.
Locust enemies may be classed as predators, parasites and diseases.
The :mportance of birds as locust exterminators cannot be too strongly
emphasised; and numerous mammals, reptiles, frogs, etc. and predatory
insects attack almost entirely the immature insects and eggs. Of the
flies present in the Philippines, the Dexinar have never been bred
out, but have been noted in the vicinity of swarms. The SaRrco-
PHAGINAE are known to parasitise both the mature and young locusts.
Two species of Nematodes, or hair-worms, representing the two genera
Gordius and Mermis have been found in the Philippine locusts, the
former breeding in water, while the latter is terrestrial. The eggs are
deposited in water or on the ground and the young crawl up the vege-
tation, reaching the host through the mouth with food, and undergoing
transformation in the body cavity of the locust. These parasites
are probably of little economic importance as locust destroyers. The
red locust mites, so far as is known, are no great inconvenience to their
hosts. The possibility of controlling locusts through the agency of
parasites is very remote since the percentage of parasitised individuals
is small. The fungous disease due to Empusa grylli has been known
to infect locusts, but it is impossible to cultivate this fungus with
much success artificially and communicate it to locust swarms.
Experiments to test the effect of Coccobacillus acridiorum, D’Herelle,
Se
—_—
127
‘
were made, and cultures brought to their maximum virulence in the
laboratory were introduced on a swarm of half-grown locusts. The
results were practically nil and the contagion did not spread.
Stand der Reblausbekampfung im Jahre 1912 in den Kantonen Ziirich
und Thurgau. [Phylloxera control in the cantons of Ziirich and
Thurgau in 1912. |—Schweiz. Zeus. Obst- und Weinbau, Frauenfeld,
no. 22, 24th Nov. 1913, pp. 349-350.
In 26 communes 4,781 infected stocks were noticed in 247 new points.
Five permits were granted to replant previously infected areas with
745 native stocks and two permits for 443 were refused. Twenty-five
proprietors renounced re-planting on payment of a lump sum.
Replanting with grafts on American stocks is allowed after an interval
of at least four years, or eight years in the case of native stocks. As
a trial, nurseries for grafted vines were established at Steinmaur and
Dielsdorf. In the latter place two new experimental plots were planted
with grafted vines. This brings the number of Ziirich plots up to 26,
all in an average good condition, and the material for these was supplied
by the Swiss Experiment Station at Wadenswil. In spite of the
vine tax, the vine fund has fallen from £5,218 to £5,055. From 1886 to
1912, 731,895 stocks on an area of about 125,000 acres were destroyed
in the Canton of Ziirich, and the costs were as follows :—Wages,
£31,189 ; Chemicals, £6,563 ; compensation, £33,971 ; other expenses,
£10,522. The total cost was £82,246. A portion of the cleared land
has again been planted with vines, partly as experimental plots with
grafted stocks, and partly with native stocks.
The Canton of Thurgau report mentions 333 infected stocks at 59
oints. Proprietors were paid £71 compensation for the destruction
of 2,591 stocks on an area of half an acre. In 1912, no infection was
noticed in the communes of Landschlacht, Gachnang, Aadorf and
Altnau. The campaign was begun in 1897 and up to 1912 a total of
440,844 stocks had been destroyed and the proprietors paid £1,574
for the grapes and £5,274 for the stocks. The report does not give any
other figures. Five experimental plots of grafted vines have been
planted in the former Phylloxera centres.
J. D. Zum diesjahrigen Mottenflug. [The vine-moth flight in 1913.]—
LIuaemburger Weinztng., Grevenmacher, i, no. 30,15 Nov. 1913,
pp. 517-518.
Experiments lasting from 10th July to 30th August were conducted
by Herr Fixmer of Grevenmacher, who found that the flight took place
from 18th July to 29th August, thus occupying no less than 43 days.
Four beer-traps were used. A total of 1,393 moths were captured, or
348 per trap. According to these figures the system of trapping is
a profitable one. The largest number taken was 112, on the 28th July.
The great variation in the numbers caught daily does not allow of a
useful average being struck and cannot be accounted for. It is hoped
that next time the figures will be completed by notes on the weather
conditions prevailing. Such experiments are a valuable aid in deter-
mining the proper time for beginning control measures.
128
KRANZLING. Acheta morio, ein Sisalschadling. [Acheta morio as a
Sisal pest.|—Der Pflanzer, Dar-es-Salaam, ix, no. 11, Nov. 1913,
pp. 568-570.
In inspecting a new Sisal plantation it was seen that a number of
healthy one-year-old plants were injured in a peculiar manner not
previously observed. At their junction with the stem—and some-
times on their spread—the lowest leaves were eaten into holes about
as large as the thumb-nail. Some leaves had been entirely detached
while others hung suspended by a few strips. The injury was done by
night, and only occurred on those plants growing on ground with a
cracked and broken surface. A night-visit to the fields showed the
pest to be a cricket, Acheta morio. Only young specimens, measuring
from 1 cm. to 15cm. in length, were noticed at work, as the older ones
escaped on the least alarm. The largest caught measured about 3 cm.
Cotton, which was planted in between the sisal, had not been touched.
This is only the second insect which has been observed to attack sisal.
The author remarks that this occurrence of the insect was quite local
and simply due to the favourable conditions provided by the broken
soil. In case the pest spreads and causes further damage control will
be necessary, but it should be neither difficult nor costly.
Bouvier (E. L.). Coceinelles contre Cochenilles. [Coccinellids to
combat Coccids.|—Revue Scientifique, Paris, 29th Nov. 1913,
pp. 673-677.
The author gives in outline an account of the work done by Riley
in combating the Coccid, [cerya purchast, in California by means of
the ladybird, Novus cardinalis, and of the more recent work carried
out on the same lines in Italy by Silvestri and Berlese, who have reared
parasites of the Coccid, Diaspis pentagona. Of several parasites
reared, the two most efiective seem to be Prospaltella berleser, bred by
Berlese, and Rhizobius lophantae, reared by Silvestri. The two
entomologists are not agreed as to which of these will prove of most
use in combating Diaspis. Without entering into the discussion of
this question, the author records that twigs of mulberry infested with
Diaspis, which was itself attacked by Prospaltella, were submitted to
him, and that he found the degree of parasitism to be very high, a fact
which speaks in favour of the efficacy of Prospaltella. In Nice and
eastward to Vintimiglia mulberry trees are attacked by Dvuasprs.
Artificial methods of control are held by the author to be only of |
temporary use, and he thinks that to keep the pest really under control,
there is no better way than to introduce its natural enemies.
Gurney (W. B.). Ironbark Foliage destroyed by Insects.—Agrvc.
Gaz. N.S.W., Sydney, xxiv, pt. 12, Dec. 1913, p 1076.
Ironbark leaves in Stroud were found to be afiected by “ Lerp ”
Insects (PSYLLIDAE), which attack also Hucalyptus trees, sucking the
sap. They construct shell-like coverings called “ Lerps,” under which
they grow; after several moults they appear as minute four-winged
insects, which lay their eggs on the leaves, on which fresh broods soon
hatch. When plentiful they destroy the bulk of the foliage, but
usually they are prevalent in numbers which only cause temporary
damage. They are kept in check by their natural pare minute
Chalcid wasps.
NOTICES.
a
_ The Editor will be glad to receive prompt information of the
‘appearance of new pests, or of known pests in districts which have
hitherto been free from them, and will welcome any suggestion, the
option of which would increase the usefulness of the Review.
- Secretaries of Societies and Editors of Journals willing to exchange
6 Publications with those of the Bureau, are requested to com-
funicate with the Assistant Editor, 27, Elvaston Place, Queen’s
3, London, S.W.
me subscription to the Review is 12s. per annum, post free; or
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“a orders and subscriptions should be sent to Messrs. DULAU
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CONTENTS.
SEE Aaa PAGE.
mia daedalus, a Pest of Coconut Palms in British Guiana eR aT
r-cane Pests in§British Guiana 57
Deiialtssicous Pee of Colaspidema al atra deg LucerneDodder 58
Tnseot Pests in Uzan ae 58
4 ee os Petts ot Text Indie BO ne is eat ae
T "he Froghopper Egg-Parasite in Trinidad Se Te oie OO
Fro ghoppers in Trinidad at .. 60, 62, 95
LS he ervations on Phlyctaenodes sticticalis in Kiev al ¥ we 68
2 Relation Berttecn Insects and their Food- FOS: fe ape ye
‘Sp adler Enemies of Bees in Russia SA sid .. 64
-Pois wa Baits for Locusts in Russia .. ys a Pe: se
Pteromalidae parasitic on Hessian iba in Russia és or ig te
Tnsec ene in Tasmania : ; we SS .. 66
BS he Sysphidae of Ot 4 th yn Oe
“Insects attacking the Paddy Plant j in Southern India _ re Beene!
oy ips and Cacao Beetles in Trinidad and Tobago .. ‘a oa. 09
» Green Muscardine Fungus as an Insecticide es prem {1)
. The Preparation of Bordeaux Mixture and Lime e Sulphur ie Teecaty f
nother Cockroach poison sa Se SRR Aap -
‘Locusts in Turkestan Ba FP Tiaepee b
=U holineum a are Aphids, Termites and Ants ey Nae eae
Pai sites of C oridea and the Codling-Moth in Turkestan .. a tay f
Destruction of Wasps’ Nests with a Flare Lamp > a ne
“Fla ydissus sartus aging Poplars in Turkestan .. ie rape.
terid Larvae ease Cotton in Turkestan ‘e oy iam (
> Woolly Aphis in Turkestan ae ee ae
Control of the Orange Maggot (Trypeta ludens) in Mexico .. Santee
t'Pests'in Jamaica : 33 sae: ae
“a, “Ani in ous Cotton Boil Weevil in Arizona a5 bee oe ae
» Biology of Fruit Aphids in Russia ‘7 iy ne ego
nm le our Paste as a Control for Red Spiders ; ra ich aa
estrictions on the Removal of Citrus Trees in 'S. Australia 5a OSs.
- Amendments to Codling Moth Regulations in South Africa Siegscae
The Wattle B orm in South Africa .. ie oe a et Om
» Economic Value of Wild Birds in South Atrioa os oe eset ee
| Pernicious | Seale i in 4 Bails Africa cS ee Re Loe tee
CONTENTS—continued.
The Introduction of Parasites into Sicily ae eh ace ea tat
Insect Pests in the Lesser Antillesin 1912 .. ah ve ee
The Large Narcissus Fly (Merodon) in Britain re
Cleonid Weevils injurious to Beetroot in the South of France o. 8
Chrysopa and Vine Pests. . ‘ we ‘s oe ude an
Cacoecia costana attacking Vines in France 8 o. en
Regulations against Cotton Boll bibiss ine Georgia, U.S.A. 4. ie
New African Coccidae .. is + we ae
The Fern Caterpillar in U.S.A. .. i a 7A $0 is Bade
The Protection of Cereals in Cartons .. ex oe ea oe
The Rose Slug-Caterpillar in U.S.A... aR Ae «s ee
Insect Pests in the Province of Quebec aie
Control of Locusts by Poison in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. .
Syrphid Larvae preying on Froghopper in Trinidad ..
Parente for Pests of Citrus Fruits in Italy .. a
Germination of Beans attacked by Beetles .. o4
Coccids of Alsace and the Palatinate .. e is
Influence of Ants on Fertilisation of Cacao ., a
Olerome gracilis damaging Palms at Singapore
Coconut Beetles (Oryctes. and Rhynchop 8) in Singapore .
The Habits of Clerid Beetles in Sweden :
Notes on Haltica engstroemi (Coleoptera) in Russia ..
Gas Tar as a Remedy for Mealy Bug on Hot House Vines
Sore com
Sac Tic eee Os
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e
*.
The Wilt Disease of Gipsy Moth Caterpillars . 7
Fumigation with Hydrocyanic Acid in Egypt _ Ss cy
Two new Thrips on Cassava in St. Vincent .. ws os
The Specialised Habits of Parasites of Insects
Uganda Coccidae and their Food-plants
“ Grasserie”’ as a remedy against leaf-eating Caterpillars
6.05 Oye Le 8 .
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Insect Pests of South Nigeria .. : a
The Biology of Phytonomus murinus in “Russia ef oe re
Keys to Russian Lamellicorn Larvae .. a
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4
490
Zinckenia fascialis, Cr., and Marasmia trapezalis, Gn. In maize
received from the Ivory Coast, nearly every grain was attacked
by two small Coleoptera Tribolium navale and Gnathocerus (Echo-
cerus) maxillosus, F. Sorghum and millet were attacked by Chilo
simplex, Butl., Melanitis ismene, Cr., Dracrisia obliqua, Whk.,
Amsacta lactinea, Cr., Cirphis unipuncta, Haw., Mocis (Chalciope)
frugalis, ¥., Marasma trapezalis, Gn., Chloridea obsoleta, F., and
Leptocorisa varicorms, F.
Bananas are seriously damaged by the larvae of the large skipper,
Erwonota thrax, L., which destroy the leaves, and also by Setora mtens,
Wlk. (LimacopiDae).
Citrus trees are attacked by several species of Papilio, including
P. demoleus, L., P. polytes, L. and P. memnon, L., the larvae of which
eat the leaves; Ophideres fullonica, L., damages the fruits. |
Sugar-cane suffers from the attacks of Sesamia inferens, Wlk.,
Scorpophaga auriflua, Z., (which lives in and pupates in the stem),
Diatraea saccharahis, F., Chilosimplex, Butl., (the larva of which attacks
especially the young shoots, and against which sowing maize between
the canes is suggested), Melanitis 1smene, Cr., Discophora celinde,
Stoll, Parnara mathias, F., Padraona dara, Koll., Telicota augias,
L., Deacrisia strigatula, Wik., Curphis loreyr, Dup., C. unipuncta, Haw.,
Prodema litura, F., Spodoptera pecten, Gn., Mocis (Chalcrope) frugalis,
F., Mocis (Chalciope) undata, ¥., Laelia suffusa, Wlk., Aroa socrus,
Hb., Dasychira securis, Hb., Leucophlebia lineata, Westw.,
Dinara (Antycira) combusta, Wik., Marasmia trapezalis, Gn., Pyrausta
coclesalis, Wlk., and various unidentified Melolonthid larvae, which
attack the roots and do considerable damage.
Coffee is attacked by the following Lepidoptera :—Acraea (Pareba)
vesta, ¥., Terastia meticulosalis, Gn., Creatonotus gangis, L., Dracrisia
strigatula, Wlk., Porthesia virguncula, Wlk., Orgyia postica, Wlk.,
Dasychira mendosa, Hb., Cephonodes hylas, L., Hyposidra talaca, Wlk.,
H. wnfizaria, Wik., Clania variegata, Snell., Setora nitens, Wlk., Thosea
sinensis, Wlk., and Parasa lepida, Cr. Beetle coffee-pests include
Xylotrechus quadripes, Chevr., which is dealt with at some length,
Xystrocera festa, Thoms., and Xyleborus coffeae, Wurth.
Tea is attacked by Zeuzera coffeae, Nietn., Agrotis ypsilon, Rott.,
Prodena litura, ¥., Orgyia postica, Wik., Dasychira mendosa, Hb.,
D. horsfieldi, Saund., Dasychira securis, Hb., Hypsa caricae, F.
(alcuphron, Cr.), Buzura (Boston) suppressaria, Gn., Ectropis (Boarmia)
bhurmitra, Wlk., Attacus atlas, L., Clania variegata, Snell., Oeceticordes
(Acanthopsyche) bipars, Wlk., Suana concolor, Wlk., Trabala vishnu,
Lef., Thosea sinensis, Wlk., and Parasa lepida, Cr.
Coconut-palms are attacked by Discophora celinde, Stoll, the skippers
Erionota thrax, L., and Gangara thyrsis, ¥., Oryctes rhinoceros, L., the
life-history of which is discussed at length, and Xylotrwpes gideon, L.
Tobacco is attacked by Chloridea obsoleta, F., Huxoa spinifera, Hb..,
Agrotis ypsilon, Rott., Prodenia ltura, ¥., Spodoptera mauritia, Bd., —
Phytometra (Plusia) signata, F., Phytometra chalcites, Esp., Acherontia
styx, Westw., A. lachesis, F., Dysdercus cingulatus, ¥. and Hypomeces
squamosus, F.
Cotton is attacked by Harias insulana, Bd., Earias fabia, Stoll,
Zeuzera coffeae, Nietn., Ergolis ariadne, L., Diacrisia obliqua, Wlk.,
Amsacta lactinea, Cr., Creatonotus gangis, L., Chloridea obsoleta, F.,
491
Cosmophila erosa, Hb., Sylepta derogata, F., and Glyphodes indica,
Saund. Hevea is attacked by Orgyia postica, Wlk., and Batocera
rubra, L., the larvae of the latter boring galleries in the branches.
The work closes with a review of certain groups of insects which
are more or less universal pests, a note on useful insects and a chapter
on insecticides which the author says has been for the most part
taken from the work of G. Guénaux, “ Entomologie et Parasitologie
Agricoles.”
Reports on Insects of the Year 1913 in Ontario.—Ann. Rep. Entom.
Soc. Ontario, 1913, Toronto, xliv, 1914, pp. 15-25, 2 figs.
The following insects of economic importance were reported from
various parts of Ontario in 1913. Locusts were abundant, particularly
in sandy districts, and much damage was done by Melanoplus atlantis
and Camnula pellucida to oats, barley, timothy, corn, potatoes and
beans at Bowesville, near Ottawa. Several reports were received of
damage done to tomatoes by the Noctuid, Papaipema cataphracta,
which bores into the stems ; cutting off the portion of the plant con-
taining the caterpillar is the only remedy that can be suggested. Tent
caterpillars (Malacosoma americana and M. disstria) defoliated apple
trees, except in a few cases where the trees had been sprayed; the
woolly apple aphis (Schizoneura lanigera) was conspicuous in some
orchards, as was also the codling moth (Cydia pomonella). The
most destructive insect to forest trees in 1913 was the forest tent-
caterpillar, Malacosoma disstria, but the damage was not so serious
asin 1912. Among garden and greenhouse 'plants, roses were injured
by the caterpillars of the Noctuid moth, Pyrrhia umbra, eating into
the buds ; asters were attacked at their roots by aphids, and in green-
houses the variegated cutworm, Peridroma margaritosa var. saucia,
attacked carnations.
In the Toronto district, roses were attacked by larvae of Pem-
phredon (Ceratophorus) tenax, and sawflies (Pontania populi) attacked
poplars. The season favoured the production of aphids, and the
American elm was attacked by Schizoneura americana, and S. rileyr
was abundant in cracks and crevices in the bark of the trees.
In the Niagara district, apple maggots (Rhagoletis pomonella) were
scarce during the year. Appleaphids, A. pomi, Hydaphis (Siphocoryne)
avenae, A. sorbi, and Schizoneura lanigera, were common and many
cases of dwarfed apples were observed. The green peach-aphis
(Myzus persicae) was abundant, but was kept in control by parasites
and predaceous insects. Woodlice, commonly known as sowbugs in
the U.S.A., Armadillidum vulgare, A. quadrifrons, and Oniscus asellus,
infested greenhouses, and seedlings of Asparagus plumosus, Primula
obconica, Petunia, Lobelia, Solanum capsicum, and many other plants
were badly attacked. Systematic trapping by means of inverted
flower-pots containing damp hay reduced their numbers, as did also
poisoned bait, made up of 2 parts rye flour, 2 parts sugar and 1 part
Paris green. The tarnished plant-bug (Lygus pratensis) damaged
asters and chrysanthemums, and Easter lilies were attacked by the
bulb mite, Rhizoglyphus hyacinthi. The corn-root aphis (A. maidi-
radicis) seriously injured cultivated asters ; beets were badly damaged
by the maggots of the beet leaf-miner (Pegomyia vicina). Elms were
(C55) 24
492
infested by Schizoneura americana. The Mediterranean flour moth
(Ephestia kuehniella) continued to be troublesome in stored meal. ;
Carsar (L.). Inseets of the Season in Ontario.—Ann. Rep. Entom-
Soc. Ontario 1918, Toronto, xliv, 1914, pp. 49-53.
The following list is given of insects which have damaged cultivated
plants in Ontario in the year 1913:—Orchard insects: codling
moth (Cydia pomonella) on apples; San, José scale (Aspidiotus
pernicosus); plum curculio (Conotrachelus nenuphar) abundant.
in places, though not so prevalent as usual; the pear psylla (Psylla
pyricola) was less numerous than usual; peach tree borers (Aegeria
pretipes and Sanninoidea exitiosa). On bush fruits the currant.
borer (Aegeria tipuliformis) was very abundant, also red_ spider
(Tetranychus bimaculatus); the raspberry root-borer (Bembecia.
marginata) severely attacked older canes. On vegetables and field
crops: the pea aphis (Macrosiphum pis) was not very abundant ;
cabbage aphis (Aphis brassicae); onion maggot, Hylemyia antiqua
(Pegomyia ceparum), badly infested many crops; asparagus beetles
(Crooceris asparagi and C. 12-punctata) widely spread, and in increasing
numbers; Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) caused serious damage
to. wheat. Forest and shade trees: Spruce gall-lice (Chermes
similis and C. abietis) were unusually scarce; European fruit.
Lecanium (Hulecanium corn) was very abundant on elms in the
Niagara district; Terrapin scale (Hulecanium nigrofasciatum) was
abundant on maple, but heavily parasitised; English walnut scale
(Aspidiotus juglans-regiae) was common, but under control, as it is.
much parasitised.
MacGituivray (A. D.). The Immature Stages of the Tenthredinoidea.
—Ann. Rep. Entom. Soc. Ontario, 1913, Toronto, xliv, 1914.
pp. 54-75, 1 pl.
In the Tenthredinoidea many phylogenetic relationships may be
discovered by a study of the immature stages; the anatomy, colour-
ation, habits, and metamorphosis of the larvae of many members of
this family, so important from an economic point of view, are described.
DaRNeELL-SmitH (G. P.). Wheat Straw breaking down through
“Contortion” or through the attack of Insects—Agric. Gaz.
N.S.W., Sydney, xxv, pt. 5, May 1914, pp. 377-378, 1 fig.
Cases of buckled or twisted straw, which eventually breaks at the
weak point in the wind, are usually due to disproportionate growth
or to the attacks of insects. Wheat affected in this way was reported
in 1900 from Carrathool and Deniliquin and found to be attacked by
APHIDIDAE ; these insects infested the wheat-stalk when about 6 inches
high, sheltered in the enveloping flag and, by sucking the sap on one
side, caused the young stem to bend over or twist almost into a knot.
Straw affected in 1912-13 did not reveal the presence of Aphids nor
of fungus disease; in these cases the damage was reported as due to
‘‘ contortion,” defined as an irregular twisting or bending of the stem,
the causes being often some restriction to growth. Unfortunately
this abnormal growth, whether due to Aphids or to contortion, does. —
not admit of remedial measures.
493
- Frogearr (W. W.). The Peach Tip Moth.—Agric. Gaz. N.S.W., Sydney,
xxv, pt. 5, May 1914, pp. 413-414, 3p.
For some years orchardists in the neighbourhood of Sydney have
been troubled with an undetermined pest of peach-trees; early in
the season a minute larva burrows into the tips of the shoots, eating
its way downward and causing the terminal leaves to die and the
injured twig to exude gum; sometimes nearly every shoot is attacked
in this way. Later on in the season a large percentage of the fruit
is marked with blotches, covered with exuding gum, under which the
skin is gnawed through. A few specimens obtained proved to be
the larvae of a Tortricid moth, not unlike the well-known codling
moth. This pest has also been found to attack several other fruits
such as quinces and apples. The eggs are laid on the tips of the peach
shoots. Adult caterpillars and the pupae were captured under
bandages wound round the trees. Spraying of all peach trees in the
early summer, as soon as the first sign of damage is noticed, with
arsenate of lead should prove effective.
FrENcu, Junr. (C.). Insect Pests of Fruit Trees. No. 1—The Leaf-Case
Moth (Hyalarcta hubnert, Westw.).— Jl. Dept. Agric. Victoria,
Melbourne, xii, pt. 5. May 1914, pp. 294-297, 6 figs.
Numerous specimens of the leaf-case moth (Hyalarcta hubneri,
_Westw.) have been received from correspondents who state that it
has caused considerable damage to apples, quinces, grapes, etc. The
larva usually bites a piece out of one fruit and then passes on to
another, until much of the fruit is damaged and useless. They also
attack the leaves and young buds. Native plants, such as the tea
tree (Leptospermum), Eucalyptus, and introduced plants, such as pines
and Cupressus, are also attacked. A closely allied species, the ribbed
case or bag moth (H. mgrescens), is destructive to Eucalyptus, but
has not yet damaged fruit trees. This pest is easily controlled with
arsenate of lead.
CaMERANO (L.). Le Riunioni deile Coccinelle. [The swarming of
Coccinellids.|—Zerts. wissen. Insektenbiol., Berlin, x, no. 5,
20th May 1914, pp. 187-189.
The author referring to Professor Werner’s paper [see this Review,
Ser. A. i, p. 548] notes that similar swarms, sometimes on a very large
scale, of Coccinellids, especially of C. septempunctata, have been noted.
In 1877, he observed a swarm on Monte Asinara at 3,000 feet
above sea-level, and cites a number of observations to the same effect
at even greater elevations in the Appenines. In order to ascertain
whether this phenomenon recurs regularly in places in which it has
once been observed, the author made several journeys into the moun-
tains, but has not been able to confirm previous observations. He
found that C. septempunctata and allied species swarm on mountain
tops, either in stony places devoid of vegetation, where the insects
are found under stones or upon them, or on certain species of plants.
The time of year when C. septempunctata exhibits a tendency to
swarm seems to be very variable; in the case of one mountain top
494
at least, the swarming occurred at considerable distances from any
vegetation, and any idea that the insects gathered there in search of
food must be abandoned. Nor is swarming likely to be connected
with reproduction, or it would probably occur with greater regularity
and exhibit a certain periodicity. The author suggests that this
phenomenon may be connected with hibernation, or may be an attempt
to escape from enemies, or be determined by failure of food supply.
On one occasion on an expedition to the Musine he failed to find a
single insect in the summer of the same year in the April of which he
had observed swarms, and concludes that the swarms are of short
duration and that there is probably no one cause for them. Neither
is the swarming of Coccinellids on certain plants easily explained,
further evidence on these points being much needed. The species
which exhibit the habit in the greatest degree are C. 7-puncata,
C. 5-zunctata, C. convergens, and Adalia 11-notata.
Davipson (J.). Ueber die Wirtpfianze von Aphis rumicis L. [The
host plants of Aphis rumicis L.]|—Zeits. wissen. Insektenhiol.,
Berlin, x, no. 5, 20th May 1914, pp. 189-190.
Experiments were made to discover if possible the host plants of
Aphis rumicis (A. euonym, F.). The insects were found in large
numbers on the spindle tree (Huonymus europaeus) in the spring;
winged parthenogenetic females were placed on dock (Rumex sangut- '
neus), garden-beans, poppy, onion, beetroot, sugar-beet, mangel-
wurzel, and turnip. These plants were grown in pots and covered
with gauze. The beans were without exception severely attacked ;
poppies were also attacked ; beetroots, sugar-beets and mangel-wurzels
were very slightly attacked; a few isolated small colonies were
found on the turnips, and none at all on the onions.
A large gauze tent, pitched in the open, was divided into three
sections, A, B, and C, between which there was no communication,
the ground beneath the tent having been soaked with carbon bisul-
phide in April. In section A the following plants were growing :—
bean, poppy, beetroot, sugar-beet, mangel-wurzel, turnip, dock, water-
cress and onion ; in B, only poppy and bean, and in ©, dock and bean.
In each section a small spindle tree infested with the Aphids was
placed, and the migrations of the winged parthenogenetic females
were observed. In C, no results were obtained, the females on the
infected Huonymus giving rise to very few offspring. In A, the beans
suffered the most severely and then the poppies; the females which
had migrated to the beans migrated again to the poppies, where they
reproduced. The beetroots and sugar-beets were only slightly
attacked; a few colonies were observed on mangel-wurzels and
several on docks, but none at all on onions, turnips and watercress.
In B, the beans were the first to be attacked.
Three spindle trees, all heavily infested with A. rumicis, were
observed in the garden; later colonies of the Aphids were found on
the following plants :—beans, docks, spinach, parsnip, dwarf bean,
kidney-bean, beetroot, sugar-beet, mangel-wurzel, peas, thistle,
shepherd’s purse, watercress, dahlia, nettles, Atriplex hortense, and
Chenopodium album.
(2s ae
495
SAvrcHENKO (I.). O Oopb6+ cb wyyxomb ‘‘ cKocapemb”’ Ha HOKHO-
OepexCHUXb KPbIMCKMXb BUMHOrpagHnKaxb. [On the campaign
against Otvorrhynchus in the vine-stocks of the South Coast of
Crimea.}— «Caposopb.» [Horticulturist], Rostov-on-Don, no. 6,
1914, pp. 470-473.
Otiorrhynchus spp. are found in the Crimea and generally in South
Russia along the coasts of the Black Sea; the Crimean species is
O. asphaltinus, Germ., while the commonest species in other parts
is O. turca. These beetles are as dangerous a pest of vine-stocks as
Phylloxera, and in some years destroy more than half the vintage.
_ The damage is done in spring, when the vine-buds begin to swell,
the beetles piercing the buds and feeding on their contents. Several
generations are bred during spring, summer and autumn, and the
period when damage is done lasts from the middle of April until the
middle of June; later, when the shoots become more woody, the
weevils are no longer able to injure them.
O. asphalttnus hides during the day and feeds at night, while
O. turca feeds during the mornings. Against both species the
author recommends hand-picking at night and spraying with barium
chloride.
Hand-picking can be done only during warm nights, as the beetles
_ do not leave their hiding-places in the earth when it is cold. On
warm nights 28 workmen are able to collect from 10,000 to 15,000
beetles, and in this way the upper buds, which are the most fertile,
can be saved, as the pests begin their attack on the lower ones.
Spraying must be begun early in spring and continued at short
intervals up to the time when the wood of the shoots has hardened.
Early in May, a 6 per cent. solution of barium chloride is recommended,
increased later to 12 per cent., 1 lb. of potato molasses being added
to every 27 gallons. Small holes, filled with flat stones, may also be
made underneath the vines, in which the insects hide during the day,
and can then be easily collected and destroyed. Smearing the lower
_ portion of the vine-stems with an adhesive is also recommended,
although this remedy is too expensive in the case of large vine-stocks.
It is also necessary to smear the poles, as otherwise the insects will
get from these on to the plants.
Howarp (L. O.). Concerning some Aphelininae——Proc. Entom.
Soc., Washington, xvi, no. 2, June 1914, pp. 79-85.
Among the species of APHELININAE of which accounts are given
in the present paper the following are of economic importance :
_ Paraphelinus tomaspidis, sp. n., reared from the eggs of the leaf-
hopper, Tomaspis varia, in Trinidad; Physcus fijiensis sp. n., from
a species of Aspidiotus from Fiji; P. stanford: from Leucaspis kelloggr
at Stanford; and Azotus chionaspidis, sp. n., from Chionaspis difficilrs,
from Tokio, Japan.
Watton (W. R.). Four New Species of Tachinidae from North
America.—-Proc. Entom. Soc., Washington, xvi, no. 2, June 1914,
pp. 90-95.
The following new species of parasitic TACHINIDAE reared from insects
which attack cultivated plants are described: Linnaemyia fulvicauda,,
496
bred from Mocis (Remigia) repanda, taken at Aibonito and Rio Piedras,
Porto Rico; Compsilura oppugnator, from Cirphis latiuscula, at Rio
Piedras, Porto Rico; and Polychaetoneura elyi, from the red-humped
apple caterpillar, Schizwra concinna.
Torocutr (J.). [po3Haa onacHocTb ycunuBaetca. [The threatening
danger grows.|— « KOmHoe Xo3nictBo.» [Southern Husbandry,]|
Alexandrowsk, no. 10, 13th June 1914, pp. 365-366.
The author refers to the damage done in the previous year to
crops in the government of Ekaterinoslav by the larvae of Oria
(Tapinostola) musculosa, Hb. During the harvest, the moths were
on the wing in great numbers and oviposited on the stubble and on
weeds, and only the heavy rains put an end to their flight. It appears
that those fields where the harvest was finished before the rains
began are again infested by the caterpillars. Damage was also
noticeable in fields where maize was grown the previous year, and
evidently oviposition in this case was effected on weeds. Fields
ploughed over with Sakk ploughs, with grass-remover attachment,
which bury the stubble deep in the soil, were very little damaged by
the pests, in marked contrast with adjoining fields, where no such
ploughs were used. This, as well as the burning of stubbles, are the
principal remedies against these pests.
Ou (I. A.). Otebtpi!. [Replies.}-—« Mporpeccunnoe Cagosogetso uv
OropogunyeetBo.» — [Progressive Fruit-Growing and Market-
Gardening,| St. Petersburg, vo. 22, 14th June 1914, pp. 704,
711-712 and 713.
In reply to queries from subscribers, the author gives the remedies
against the sawfly, Hoplocampa fulvicornis, Klg., which lives in the
larval stage inside plums, feeding first on the kernel and afterwards
on the parenchyma. When the immature fruits drop to the earth
the larvae leave them and pass into the soil, where they winter.
Digging the soil in order to destroy the wintering cocoons, the daily
shaking down of the attacked plums and the destruction of fallen
fruits are recommended.
Against Psylla mali, Foérst., the destruction of the eggs late in
autumn with iron sulphate, spraying the nymphs and larvae in spring
with kerosene emulsion, and fumigating against the imago are recom-
mended.
Against Forficula auricularia, L., the author recommends various
traps in which these insects wi'l hide during the day.
Pacnopamenie o npwyuncnenin ActpaxancKod ry. v YpanbcKon oon.
Kb Onaronony4yHbimb no munoncepb mbcwoctamb. [An Order
declaring the Government of Astrachan and the province of Uralsk
to be free from Phylloxera.]|— « U3etetia Tnas. Ynpas. 3. uv 3.»
[Bulletin of the Central Board of Land Admimstration and Agri-
culture,|] St. Petersburg, no. 22, 14th June 1914, pp. 544. ©
An Order of the President of the Central Board of Land Adminis-
tration and Agriculture declares the government of Astrachan and
the province of Uralsk to be free from Phylloxera and prohibits the
i te ie ee
ea +. — <= 7 ea
497
importation of vine-plants, or any parts of them, into these localities
from other vine-growing districts of Russia or from abroad.
CRAWFORD (J. C.).. New Parasitic Hymenoptera from British Guiana.
—Proc. Entom. Soc., Washington, xvi, no. 2, July 1914, pp. 85-88.
The following new species of Hymenoptera, parasitic on the eggs
or larvae of insects attacking cultivated plants in British Guana,
are described: Prophanurus alecto, from the eggs of the sugar-cane
borer, Diatraea saccharalis; Aphanurus bodkini, from the eggs of
Empicoris variolosus, a Pentatomid bug which occurs on the stem of
Hevea ; Holcencyrtus calypso, and Elachertus meridionalis, from the
larvae of the butterfly Calpodes ethlius, which attacks arrowroot.
Prophanurus (Telenomus) minutissimus, Ashm., was bred from the
eggs of Lycophotia infecta ; when this species was originally described
the host was given as Dactylopius sp., but this record is probably
incorrect, as the species of this group, so far as is known, are
egg-parasites.
Campion (G. C.). Note on Mysia oblongo-guttata, L., ab. nigroguttata,
Dollm.—Entomologists’ Monthly Mag., London, July 1914,
eo. 116.
In 1912, the author recorded the breeding of Syrphus torvus, from
larvae found on young pines in the neighbourhood of Woking. The
same trees have recently been examined, and amongst the Syrphid
larvae and imaginal and larval Coccinellids to be seen attendant.
upon the numerous Aphids (Chermes), three freshly emerged individuals
of Mysia oblongo-guttata, L., were found, one of which resembled
Dollman’s figure of ab. nigroguttata. These immature examples.
were kept alive with living Chermes for a week, but all died while
still immature. Amongst the eight species of Coccinellids seen on
these pines, Exochomus 4-pustulatus was as common as Adalia brpunc-
tata.
V. V. D. Bonpocsi u otebTbl. [Queries and replies. |— « Xo3nicTBO.»
[Choziaistvo], Kiev, no. 23, 3rd July 1914. p. 809.
In reply to a subscriber, the author says that the rape sent was
attacked by larvae of Ceuthorrhynchus sulcicollis, Gyll., which live
inside the roots, causing swellings on them. They do not occur
inside the stems of rape, as do the larvae of Psylliodes chrysocephala, L.
Remedies against both pests consist in pulling up the damaged
plants with their roots and burning them, and in deep ploughing
of the fields after harvesting the rape. Where the field is seriously
infested, it is advisable to replough it at once and to sow some other
crop.
MacDovaatt (R. §S.). Inseet pests in 1913.—Trans. Highland & Agric.
Soc. Scotland, 1914. Reprint, 19 pp., 14 figs.
_ Sitotroga cerealella, the Angoumois grain-moth, was received for
identification from a cargo of maize condemned at an English port.
The sample, which was very badly infested, also contained many
498
Calandra oryzae. Larvae and pupae of Cossus cossus were taken
from old larch stools, in which no larval borings could be found, but
further examination revealed these in neighbouring broad-leaved trees,
which had been left by the mature larvae for pupation. The larvae
of Hepialus humuli are recorded as damaging oats, potatoes, artichokes,
carrots, asparagus and hops. In January, specimens were received
which were reported to be destroying a plantation of two-yeard-old
ash, eating the plants off at or just below the surface of the ground.
Vaporite incorporated with the soil does some good, also trapping
with pieces of potato and disturbing the soil as much as possible.
Odontoptera bidentata, the scalloped hazel moth, which flies in May
and June, attacked ivy and rhododendron, but also feeds on many
other plants. When seriously infested, plants should be sprayed
with arsenate of lead. Hylastes palliatus, Gyll., a bark boring beetle, has
this year proved destructive to Scots Pine, in company with Hylurgus
(Myelophilus) piniperda. The economic importance of Hylastes in
forests is, in the author’s opinion, underestimated. In April, after
pairing, the beetles bore into the bark, following the long axis of the
tree for about 14-2 inches. Eggs are deposited along the sides of
this gallery and the larvae gnaw out tunnels of their own. Pupation
occurs at the end of the gallery. There are two generations in the
year, the April brood emerging in the summer, and the second brood
wintering in the larval, pupal or imago stage beneath the bark. A
series of trap stems from the end of March until October is the best
method of keeping down H. palliatus. Dying trees should not be
allowed to remain in woods except
508
The degree of efficiency of this Braconid in controlling Haris is.
uncertain ; in 1911, at Bahtin, it was found that 44 per cent. of the
boll worms were destroyed. It is thought that, although a very useful
asset in keeping the boll worm in check, the Braconid cannot perform
the entire work of control.
Witticocks (IF. C.). An Acarine Parasite of the Pink Boll Worm.—
Bull. Soc. Entom. @ Egypte, Cairo, April-June 1913, no. 2, 1914,
pp. 68-72.
The pink boll worm is the larva of a small Tineid moth, Gelechia
gossyprella ; it has been recorded as attacking cotton in various parts.
of Egypt, and has become a serious pest during the past few years.
Recently the predaceous acarine, Pediculoides ventricosus, has been
found to be quite common on pink boll worms infesting a sample of
cotton seed from Behera province. At first it was thought that the
mite might be an important enemy of G. gossypiella, but is now doubtful
whether this is the case. To be effective, it must be able to attack the
pest in the field, but its powers of doing this, judging by its effect on
the Mexican boll weevil in America, are likely to be very limited ;
and it isimprobable that it will prove an important enemy of the pink
boll worm in cotton seed, since to increase rapidly it requires a fairly
high temperature, which is not reached until all the seed has been
sown. The life-history of the mite is as follows: It is.
viviparous, the males and females becoming sexually mature within
the body of the parent and mating soon after they are born; under
favourable conditions there may be a generation every four days.
The attachment of the young mites results in the death of the pink
boll worm, as they extract all its fluid contents.
These mites also attack man, giving rise to an eruption of the skin.
Barsacg (T. P.). Destruction of Locusts in Turkestan.—Mthly. Bull.
Agric. Intell. Plant. Dis., Rome, v, no. 4. Apr. 1914, pp. 558-564.
Turkestan being still without transit, is self-dependent in the matter
of cereals, consequently protection from the attacks of locusts 1s most
necessary. A number of species occur, some being less harmful than
others. The Morocco locust (Stawronotus maroccanus), which is very
destructive, deposits its eggs on arid uncultivated plains, the per-
manent area of distribution being the steppes of Samarkhand, the
Khanat of Bokhara and Afghanistan. Temporary egg deposition
centres are sometimes found in Turkestan. This locust has been
found to select altitudes up to 6,600 feet above sea-level for oviposition,
and the density of the eggs may reach 10,000 clusters per square yard,
the whole centre occupying some hundreds of acres. The hatching
period lasts 7-10 days, usually between the 2nd and 10th of Apmil.
The migratory locust, Locusta (Pachytylus) migratoria, has many
permanent areas of distribution in Central Asia, such as reed-beds on
banks and in deltas of the rivers. Though usually preferring the shoots
of reeds, this species, perhaps mixed with L. damica, is reported in
1896 as having damaged 75,000 acres of various crops. Recently
no serious damage done by it has been reported. The Italian locust,
Caloptenus italicus, though common in Turkestan, has only recently
509
_ been found to be of economic importance. It is thought that this was
due to its having been starved out by the more voracious Morocco locust;
as in districts where the latter was exterminated a few years ago, Calop-
tenus is now found in far larger numbers than formerly. The following
locusts are also known as of minor economic importance in Turkestan :
Oedaleus nigrofasciatus, Deg., Arcyptera flavicosta, Fisch., Arcyptera
(pallasiella, Kirby) turcomana, Fisch.-Waldh., Acridium aegyptium, L.,
Stauronotus kraussi, S. tartarus, S. anatolicus, and S. brevicollas. Several
well-known means of destroying the different stages of locusts are given
[see this Review, Ser. A, iil, pp. 37-39]. Scorching the larvae by using
a special knapsack apparatus (Schkilin’s was found the best) and the
petroleum flare is efficient but expensive, and only advisable on rough
ground free from grass. A table is given showing the area chemically
treated at the expense of the State, and in 1911, 196,000 acres were
treated with 286,000 lb. of Paris green, 404 large machines being used. .
Sodium arsenite was used in Turkestan in 1911 and, the results being
excellent, it is now the only chemical used on a large scale, The
strengths recommended for the various stages of the larvae are:
Ist and 2nd stages, 0°25 per cent.; 3rd stage, 0°37-0°4 per cent. ;
4th stage, 0°5 per cent.; adhesiveness is obtained by adding double
the amount of molassesineachcase. Hopper-dozers are recommended
for small infestations of locusts on level ground free from vegetation.
The preparation during summer and autumn of forecast maps, showing
the position, area, and degree of parasitisation of the egg-centres in the
different districts, is advised. These centres should be examined
in spring, as in many cases it will be found that various natural enemies
have so reduced the egs-clusters that treatment will not be required.
The chief enemies of the Morocco locust in Turkestan are the
Bombylid flies, Callostoma desertorum and Cytherea (Mulio) obscura, F.,
the larvae of which together account for about 40 per cent. of the eggs,
while those of Mylabris 4-punctata destroy hardly 2 per cent. Predatory
enemies of locusts are scarce in Turkestan ; some species of Callistenes
eat the larvae and Prosodes, Adesmia, Stalagmoptera and certain
Elaterids (? Athows), eat the egg-clusters. The fungi which attack
these eggs are as yet little known, but they are evidently spread by
birds, and sometimes entirely destroy egg-centres. The rose-coloured
starling (Pastor roseus) and sparrows feed on the larvae, while ravens
and crows chiefly take the eggs, as also do lizards of the genera Hremias
and Phrynocephalus. Infecting the locusts with Coccobacillus
acrudiorum, d’Hér., is being attempted, and may give good results.
A table is given of the losses in Turkestan caused by this insect, the
money spent by the Locust Control Administration, and the results
obtained.
Patch (KH. M.). Currant and Gooseberry Aphids in Maine.—Mazine
Agric. Expt. Sta., Orono, Bull. 225, Feb. (issued 14th April) 1914,
pp. 49-68, 15 figs.
The author deals with several species of plant-lice found upon .
currant and gooseberry in Maine, none of which, however, complete
their life-cycle on these plants. Some species occur on them in the ,
spring in an apterous form, a migrant winged form follows, which —
spends the summer on other vegetation, and in the autumn a succeeding
510
generation returns to the spring host-plant. These give rise to a
sexual generation which produces the winter-eges. The autumn
lice which are less numerous, do less damage, as the loss of sap at
that time of year is less serious. This species winters on the elm
and migrates in the summer to the fruit bushes. Aphis varians,
sp. n. (white-cornicled currant aphid) is a very abundant species,
possibly synonymous with grosswariae, Kalt., which is found upon
cultivated currant, flowering currant and wild gooseberry during
May and June, and was reported as very serious in West Paris, Maine,
in 1910-11-12. In Maine, the stem-mother matures early in
May, and is found on the under-surface of the leaf, which puckers
considerably. The third generation appears early in June, and when
the wings have developed, migration to the summer food-plant
occurs.
Aphis sanborm, sp. n.; this green gooseberry aphid is probably
the species described, but not named, by Sanborn in ‘ Kansas
Aphididae’ (1904), pp. 50-51 and fig. 71. It was found in 1913, at
High Moor Farm, and the collection taken on 28th May comprised
stem-mothers, apterous females of the second generation and the
third generation, which points to the gooseberry as the winter host,
though the full life-cycle has not been followed. |
Rhopalosiphum lactucae (?) Kalt.,is common in Maine in spring
upon currants, and is probably the same as that found on sow
thistle (Sonchus arvensis), in summer, for it agrees with lactucae
recorded from Sonchus in Germany. The leaves do not cluster so
tightly as do those attacked by A. varians. During the end of June,
alate and apterous pupae and nymphs are still found on the currant,
later the alate females appear to migrate to lettuce and sow-thistle.
Myzus ribs, L., only attacks the leaves, forming red or yellow
blisters, one result being the premature ripening of the fruit. The
stem-mother matures in Maine about mid-May, and the second gen-
eration appears to be both alate and apterous. Both these forms are
found on currant as late as mid-July. The summer food-plant is
unknown, although M. ribis has a world-wide distribution. M. dispar,
sp. n., is closely allied to the last species, the differences though slight
are constant. Macrosiphum lactucae, a common species on cultivated
currant and gooseberry, is provisionally recorded, though transfers
to Sonchus or lettuce have not been yet successful. Schizoneura
ulmi (fodiérs), though not yet recorded on the gooseberry or currant
in America, is known in Europe. These are the summer food-plants,
the English elm, Ulmus campestris, harbouring this species through
the winter and in spring [see this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 208].
Capus (J.). Le Traitement de 1’Eudémis. [The treatment of Poly-
chrosis.|—Rev. Agric. et Vitic. de V Afrique du Nord, Algiers, xii,
no. 111, 25th April 1914, pp. 395-396.
The treatment instituted by the author and by Dr. Feytaud in
1912 against the first generation of the vine-moth, Polychrosis botrana,
consisted of spraying the vines with a Bordeaux mixture containing
nicotin. Recent experiments have shown that the best results are
obtained when the spray is used at the time when the adult moths
are most numerous. In the Department of Gironde, this period was
511
between the 9th and 19th of July. The author does not recommend
_ further spraying against the autumn generation of the moth, which,
_ in any case, should be scarce if the earlier sprayings have been care-
fully performed; should the moth be still abundant it should be
controlled with liquid bait-traps.
Tomer (B.). Malattie delle piante. [Diseases of Plants.}—Lib. I:
Cattedra Ambulante Prov. d Agricultura, Urbino, 1913, 111 pp.
The author is Director of the Cattedra Ambulante of Urbino, and
this little book is intended to give shortly, in very simple language,
an account of insects and other pests of cultivated crops. The first
part deals with wheat, maize, beans, potatoes, tobacco, lucerne,
trefoil, Maltese clover (Hedisarum coronarium) and sainfoin, and
their pests, which are dealt with according to the parts of the plant
attacked. A brief description is given of each, sufficient to attract
the attention of the farmer and to cause him to make further inquiry ;
the remedies are dealt with in the same manner, and a good deal of
information is given as to manuring and general cultivation which
_ will assist the plants to resist their enemies.
JARVIS (H.). A new Fruit-boring Caterpillar of Bananas occurring at
Tweed Heads, Heteromicta latro.—Queensland Agric. J|., Brisbane,
Apmil 1914, pp. 280-284, 1 plate.
The larvae of this Pyralid moth, which infests bananas, have also
_ been found tunnelling the trunks of grass-trees (Xanthorrhoea sp.)
and it probably breeds freely in grass-tree country. The author
warns banana-growers, especially those on the southern border of the
State, to watch for early signs of Heteronucta latro infesting their fruit.
In the Tweed River district the insect has been known for about seven
years and is now to be found in most banana plantations. Injury is
_ usually seen on isolated trees, but as a rule only a few fingers of a
- bunch are attacked. The excreta of the larvae are visible on the
damaged skin, webbed together and obscuring the entrance hole,
_ which is always situated near the flower end of the fruit. Only about
_ an inch of the fruit is injured and the rest ripens normally unless
_ subsequently attacked by a fungus such as ripe-rot (Gloeosporvum sp.).
_ Hymenopterous parasites, of which two species were bred by the
_ author, keep this moth in check, and so far serious damage has not
occurred. All infested fruits should be picked and should not be
_ burnt, but kept in large wooden cases covered with perforated zinc,
_ (1-16th inch mesh), which will allow the parasites, but not the moths,
_ to escape. Grass-trees in the neighbourhood of banana plantations
_ should be rooted out and burnt.
The common maize-moth (Dichocrocis punctiferalis) has recently
_ attacked green bananas, entering the pulp at the flower end ; growers
are therefore warned against growing maize near bananas. In some
_ bananas submitted for examination, the pupae of a beetle, apparently
_ Doticus pestilens, which is known to attack apples in Victoria, were
_ found. These diseased bananas also harboured a species of Niti-
DULIDAE, Closely alhed to Carpophilus hemipterus, well known in dried
Turkey figs.
512
CaEsAR (L.). The Chief Insect Pests of Currants and Gooseberries.—
Ontario Dept. Agric., Toronto, Bull. 222, April 1914, pp. 33-36,
3 figs.
This bulletin deals with the culture of currants and gooseberries,
and their insect pests are briefly mentioned. The currant sawfly
(Pteronus ribes) attacks currants and gooseberries and is common
and destructive. Eggs are deposited in chains on the veins under-
neath the leaves, and defoliation by the larvae is often complete. The
second brood appears as the fruits are ripening, and winters in the
ground in earthen cocoons. ‘This insect may be controlled by spraying
with 2 lb. lead arsenate to 40 gallons of diluted lime-sulphur, or of
Bordeaux mixture, applied just before flowering and again when the
fruit is set. Should the second brood appear, 1 oz. of hellebore to a
gallon of water should be applied at once, as arsenicals must not be used.
on the fruit at this stage. The imported currant-borer (Aegeria
tupuliformis) is common in most plantations. The moths appear in
June in Ontario, and eggs are deposited in the axils of the leaves, or
in cuts in the bark ; the young larvae bore into the pith where they feed
until full grown the next year. Spraying is no use against this pest.
A system of pruning should be carried out by which wood is cut out
after bearing one or at most two crops, young wood being allowed to
take its place. All prunings must be burnt. before the end of May.
Against the currant aphis, (JZyzus ribis), * Black Leaf 40 ” with lime-
sulphur should be used as soon as the winter eggs have hatched, but
before the buds open, followed by a similar spray from below just
before flowering. Kerosene emulsion or whale-oil soap, 1 lb. in 6
gallons of water is an alternative, but should not be combined with
hme-sulphur. Red spiders (Tetranychus bimaculatus) spin a fine web
on the under surface of the leaves beneath which they feed and
deposit their eggs. Lime-sulphur used as for the other pests will
control them. For San José and oyster-shell scales, which attack
currant bushes and sometimes gooseberries, lime-sulphur should
be used, having a specific gravity of 1032 to 1:035, or commercial lime-
sulphur 1 gallon in 8 of water.
RuTHERFORD (A.). Termites.—Trop. Agric., Peradeniya, xlu, no. 4.:
April 1914, pp. 305-307.
A termite, probably Calotermes militaris, Desn., has been found
attacking tea plants in Ceylon; in one case the red-borer had been
present, and the termites appeared to have worked from their tunnels
through the rest of the plant. Carbon bisulphide is a good remedy,
failing a Universal Ant Exterminator. During some demonstrations
on the use of dynamite for subsoiling, an experiment was made as to
the use of this explosive to destroy termite nests; the results were
negative, as within nine days the insects were rebuilding their nests,
or were building fresh ones at a few yards distance. A demonstration
was also given by Mr. Bandara-Beddewela with his termite mixture
[see this Review, Ser. A, i, p. 74]; nine days later the ants had begun
building again, but by the 24th day from treatment, all the nests”
were deserted, including, however, the control nest. Further tests,
carried out by the author, failed to demonstrate that the mixture
was distasteful or poisonous to the termites. Wood impregnated
513
with ‘“ Cordirol ” was tested against termites, but was not found to be
protected from their attacks.
RUTHERFORD (A.). Plants other than Tea from which Xyleborus forn-
catus (Shot-hole Borer of Tea) has been taken.—Trop. Agric.,
Peradeniya, xiii, no. 4, April 1915, pp. 307-309.
* The shot-hole borer does not frequent Grevillea or Albizzia stipulata,
though it may attack sickly branches.. There are several records of
X. fornicatus occurring in Albizzia moluccana, but opinions differ as
to the condition of the plants attacked. In some cases the insects
occurred in large numbers in twigs and branches already killed by a
fungus, and the presence of several species indicated that they were
not the primary cause of injury; but in another case the infested
branches showed no original fungus disease. Yearling plants of
Crotalaria striata are reported as being attacked in one instance, and
deserted tunnels were once found in loquat, and in castor oil plants
all stages of the borer were present. Green found what was
apparently this species tunnelling only in dead wood in Para rubber,
and also reports a single case of specimens alleged to have been taken
from guava, and twigs of Bixa orellana were apparently attacked
by this borer, which also attacks isolated cacao trees growing amongst
tea. The quantity of gum present in the bark of healthy cacao trees
protects them, but should the vitality of the tree be lowered by canker
or other disease, it may be attacked; such trees, in a favourable
condition for the breeding of these beetles, are therefore a great menace
to tea plantations ; when cultivating cacao, all dying branches should
be removed and the cut surface tarred. The author found several
specimens of a large black thrips in galleries of X. fornicatus, in this
tree, but they did not appear to be predaceous. An avocado
pear tree growing near an infested tea plantation suffers periodically
from the attacks of this beetle, and the author has also observed
sporadic overflow infestations in Poinciana regia, Bauhinia sp., and
Aberia gardnert.
Uriupinsky (M.). Cmopoqunubi KnewMKb. [Hriophyes ribis, Nal.]
—BronneTeHb 0 BpeAMTeNnAXb CeNbCKaro XO3AVCTBAa WH MbpaXb
GopbObl Cb HUMU. [Bulletin on the pests of Agriculture and methods
of fighting them.] Published by the Entomological and Phyto-
pathological Bureau of the Zemstvo of the Govt. of Charkov.
Charkov, no. 3, April 1914, pp. 12-15, 3 figs.
The author in May 1913 found numbers of mites, wae ribis,
on black-currant plants, the buds of which had not unfolded. He
recommends the following method of discovering and examining
these mites: attacked buds are placed in a dry glass tube and the
mites will soon leave them and settle on the w alls of the glass ; they
ean then be preserved by filling the glass with 60° alcohol. Buds
attacked by these mites wither and drop off about the middle of June ;
the mites emerge from the buds, oviposit in new ones and then die ;
a new generation appearing the following year. The mites are spread
from place to place through the agency of winds, birds or insects,
also through young shoots of currants used as cuttings. [The deformity
produced is known in England as * Big bud.”—Ed. ]
514
Very little information is available as to the natural enemies of these
mites, but the author found a small Chalcid parasite in a bud; whilst.
Korolkov reports that in Moscow he found inside the swollen buds
of currants the larvae of a Cecidomyid, and Collinge records the larvae.
of Coccinella T-punctata as an enemy of these mites. Both normal
and infested buds are figured.
The author recommends the destruction of attacked buds and, in
cases of serious infestation, of the shoots or even the whole plant ;
the careful removal of rubbish, leaves and infested ends in late autumn
and early in spring; the powdering of previously moistened plants
with a wuxture of one part of finely ground unslaked lime and two
parts of flowers of sulphur in March, April and May. As preventive
remedies he recommends the planting only of seedlings or cuttings.
known to be immune, the French varieties of black-currants and
also the English “‘ Boskoop Giant ”’ being considered to be free from
infestation. [See this Review, Ser. A, i, pp. 139-140.]
TRZEBINSKI (Dr. J.). Sprawozdanie za rok 1913 z dzia‘alnosei staeji
ochrony roslin w Warszawie. [Report for 1913 on the activity
of the Station for the protection of plants in Warsaw. |—Reprint
from Rocznika Tow. Ogrod. Warsz. |The Annual of the Warsaw
Horticultural Society] for 1913, Warsaw, 40 pp., 2 figs., 1914.
This is mainly a report on experiments with remedies against
fungus diseases conducted by the Station, but some experimental
sprayings against insect pests of plants were also undertaken.
Spraying of firs against Chermes abietis, Kalt., with tobacco extract
and oil or Bourdon’s paraffin-soap mixture were not conclusive, as.
the numbers of galls on sprayed and unsprayed trees were nearly
the same. The paraffin mixture caused the needles of the firs to
turn a brown colour and drop off, which is possibly to be attributed
to the double quantity of kerosene erroneously taken for the prepara-
tion of the insecticide. Tobacco emulsion did not damage the
needles. Both insecticides were prepared according to recipes
recommended in ‘“ Arbeit aus der Kais. Biol. Anst. f. Land. und
Forstwirtschaft,” vol. vi, no. 2. At the beginning of July, Chermes:
vuridanus, Cholodk., appeared in large numbers on larch in the
nurseries of Warsaw. Spraying with the usual kerosene soap-emulsion
and with a 2 per cent. solution of ‘“‘ milonaphtha ” (soap-naphtha),
prepared by the firm of Nobel Bros., proved very effective, but the
latter remedy caused the needles to turn yellow.
Amongst the queries as to remedies against sect pests addressed
to the Station from Russian Poland and also from neighbouring
governments, 8 queries related to Coccids, 10 to Aphids, 6 to Eriophyes
piri, 4 to Schizoneura lanigera, which appeared last year in many
gardens of the governments of Warsaw, Kalish and Kieletzk, 6 to
larvae of Melolontha, 6 to larvae of ELATERIDAE and 11 to various:
thrips, which injured grain crops.
Vsetectia Cyxymcxow Caposoi wu CenbcKo-XosncTBeHHoW OnbiTHow
Cranyin. [Bulletins of the Horticultural and Agricultural Sta-
tion], Suchum, no. 14, 1914, pp. 11-15 and 62.
This issue of the Bulletiris consists of a report on the’ work of the
515
Station i in 1913, a programme intended to be carried out in 1914 and
some estimates for 1915. There is an Entomological Section at the
Station, a report of which is also included.
The chief pest of orchards is Schizoneura lanigera, Hausm., control
of which is conducted only in the nurseries; the local variety of
apple called ‘“ Abchaz-apple ” is not attacked or only little injured
by this pest.
Cydia pomonella and Rhynchites pauxillus, Germ., occur everywhere
and are very injurious. Other pests include Thrips, on various nursery
plants; Lachnus persicae, on peaches, which however does not do
serious damage, even when present in large numbers; Lepidosaphes
ulmi (Mytilaspis pomorum), and other Coccipar; Zeuzera aescult,
Vanessa polychloros, Lymantria (Ocneria) dispar, and some species of
TorRTRICIDAE and of ScoLtyTipaAE. Among market-gardens pests
the report mentions: Preris brassicae, Plutella maculipennis, Curt.
(cruciferarum, Zell.), Athalia spinarum, ¥., and some Halticini.
Pyrausta nubilalis (Botys silacealis, Hb.), and P. quadripunctalis,
Schiff., are injurious to maize, the infection of cobs and stalks of this
plant in some localities amounting to 50 per cent. Svphonophora
scabiosae, Buckt., and Thrips are pests of tobacco. Grain stores
are injured by Tinea granella, L., and by Calandra granaria, L., which
are both important pests in this district. Insect pests in Suchum
are numerous and the gradual study of their biology will, it is hoped,
enable the best methods of controlling them to be discovered.
During the current year it is intended to study especially the biology
and control of Schizoneura lanigera, Hausm., Coccrpar, Athalia
spinarum, F., Cydia pomonella, and some others of the previously
mentioned pests. Spraying experiments and the collection of
entomological specimens will also be undertaken.
Koxusev (N.). Hymenoptera parasitica nova faunae turanicae a V. I.
Plotnikov collecta. [Parasitic hymenoptera new to the fauna
of Turkestan, collected by V. I. Plotnikov.|—Revue Russe
d’Entomologie, St. Petersburg, xll. nos. 3 and 4, 28th March 1914,
pp. 513, 514.
The author describes Habrobracon simonovi, bred from larvae of
Chloridiea obsoleta (Heliothis armigera), and Chelonus caradrinae, and
Microplites rufiventris, bred from larvae of Caradrina exiqua.
Mpumbuenie Bb capaxb Menb3naro Kynopoca. [The application of
Tron Sulphate in Orchards.]—«Capb, Oroponb wu Baxya.»
(Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza.| Astrachan, no. 5, May
1914, pp. 307-308.
The application of iron-sulphate is recommended in this article,
chiefly in order to destroy moss and lichen on trees, but also as a
remedy against Psylla mali. For the Jatter purpose a 3 per cent.
solution (1 lb. of iron sulphate in 11 quarts of water) is recommended
to be sprayed before the buds swell. This remedy does not, however,
always lead to a total destruction of the eggs of this pest, and a further
516
spraying with tobacco extract (} or ? lb. of tobacco extract in 11
quarts of water) is recommended immediately after the larvae have
hatched.
Ropzianko (V. N.). O HbkKoTOpPbIXt GabouKaxb, ryCeHHUbl KOTOPbIXb
NOBPeHpawTb COCHOBbIA NocaqKH Onu3b r. Hiepa. [On some
Microlepidoptera, the caterpillars of which injure pine-plantations
in the environs of Kiev.]|—Kzev, 1913, 10 pp.
In May 1912, the author obtained from forests in the government
of Kiev samples of the leading shoots of young pines, the terminal
buds of which were damaged by Microlepidopterous larvae; later he
obtained some young green, but longer shoots of the same pines, also
damaged by these caterpillars, from which he bred three species of
moths, one belonging to the PyRALIDAE and two to the ToRTRICIDAE.
The former is described by the author as a new variety, viz. :—Dvoryc-
tria (Phycis) abietella, var. pinetella, Rodz., and he also refers to the
closely allied D. (Phycis) splendidella, H.S., which has been reared
from pine-cones and diseased pine-branches. The larvae of D. abietella
injure the cones and shoots of Prcea excelsa and Abies pectinata, Dec.,
in which they make mines; they live also in the galls of Chermes.
According to Ratzeburg, and Judeich and Nietsche, these caterpillars
breed also inside the cones, but not in the shoots and branches, of Pinus
silvestris, although some other authors, such as Réssler, Sorhagen and
Meyrick, report having found them there. The author points out —
that the form of Dvioryctria reared by him is more distinct from
D. abietella than is D. schiitzeella, Fuchs, which is regarded as a
separate species. He suggests that the varied food of the different
forms of Droryctria is responsible for the difference in the colour and
markings. The larvae of the variety he describes lived in mines,
burrowing in the interior of young green shoots on the tips of small
pines. From larvae collected in June 1912 he reared the first moth
on 17th July, and the last ten days later. The caterpillars pupated
in cocoons spun between the needles. He describes the larvae, pupa
and imago, and recommends as a remedy collecting and destroying
the damaged shoots while the caterpillars are still inside.
Two species of TortTRicIDAE, Rhyacioma (Retvma) buoliana, 8. V.,
and R. duplana, Hiibn., were reared by the author. The larvae of
the former were found in webs on the summits of young pines. In the
second half of June the caterpillars pupated in the webs, the moths
emerging about a fortnight later. Only one generation occurs, and
these caterpillars winter and proceed to feed and develop further next
spring. The author describes the injury done by the caterpillars, and
recommends the collection and destruction of the infested shoots
while they are still inside.
Rhyaciona duplana is the commonest species near Kiev, at least
in 1912. The larvae mine inside young pine-shoots; there is only one
brood during the summer, the winter being passed in the pupal stage.
The caterpillars reared by the author in the laboratory spun their
cocoons inside the mines in the shoots: attacked shoots should be
destroyed. |
517
Borner (C.). Experimenteller Nachweis einer biologischen Rassen-
differenz zwischen Reblausen aus Lothringen und Siidfrankreich.
[Experimental proof of a biological race-difference between the
Phylloxera from Lorraine and the South of France. |—Zetschr.
fiir angewandte Entomologie, Berlin, 1, no. 1, April 1914, pp. 59-67.
The subject-matter of this address has been dealt with before in
these pages [see this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 156. |
OrtH (—). Die Reblaus in Franken. [|Phylloxera in Franconia. |—
Zeitschr. fiir angewandte Entomologie, Berlin, i, no. 1, April 1914,
pp. 50-58, 1 map.
First discovered in Franconia in 1902, Phylloxera has since been
found in many localities there, but the total area infested only amounts
to about 173 acres, or about | per cent. of the total devoted to vine-
growing. Control may therefore be said to be successful. In the
Inspection of vineyards every stock is examined.
-RUBSAAMEN (EK. H.). Die Bekampfung der- Reblauskrankheit in
Preussen. [Phylloxera-control in Prussia.|—Zevtschr. fiir ange-
wandte Entomologie, Berlin, 1, no. 1, April 1914, pp. 20-49, 2 figs.
The search for and destruction of infested stocks (an operation of
much difficulty) is the only efficacious method of Phylloxera control
where the introduction of American stocks is not attempted. The
latter is an expensive method, not always possible to the small vine-
grower, and the author thinks it is unnecessary as yet in the Rhine
provinces of Prussia, where the success so far gained seems to point
to the possibility of rooting out the evil. In the districts under the
author’s supervision, the examination of both sides of each stock
was introduced in 1903, and has since been adopted throughout the
Rhine province. The search squad consists of a chief, 7 experts and
7 labourers. At least 4 roots of each stock are examined. The cost.
per examined stock varies from 2d. to 3d. That this slow, somewhat
costly, but thorough examination is successful, is proved by the fact
that but few new centres of infection are discovered in the ground
examined in this manner. On an average, a squad can inspect 62)
acres of non-infested vineyards in 12 weeks and 125-200 acres in
infested ones. The work is done strictly in accordance with a yearly
time-table, from mid-June to mid-September. The destruction of a
centre of infection is carried out as follows :—The vine-stocks are cut
down and burned; about 10 oz. of carbon bisulphide is used per
square yard, in holes from 6 to 8 inches deep ; after the vine and the
Phylloxera have been killed by the gases, the vine is uprooted; a
second treatment with carbon bisulphide follows, about 5i0z. per
square yard being used; the ground is then watered with Kresol
solution. A 10 per cent. solution of Kresol, made. up according to the
German Pharmacopeia (4th Edition), was found absolutely deadly to
Phylloxera, including the eggs. In the Rhine province, watering with
Kresol is not done, for as the soil is but slightly moved, as compared
_ with former methods where it was dug up to a considerable depth,
the Phylloxera is not brought to the surface. Besides being unneces-
sary, Kresol communicated an unpleasant flavour to the grapes of
518
neighbouring vineyards, and compensation claims had to be settled.
The work of destruction begins in spring and ends about the middle of
October. In the safety-zone round the centre of infection, the vines
are cut down in spring (if not already done in autumn) to within 8-12
inches from the ground and burned ; 34 pints of 15 per cent. Kresol
solution are then poured on each stock, and then about 10 oz. of carbon
bisulphide per square yard is applied in holes from 4 to 6 inches deep.
This simplified procedure has resulted in a great saving of expense.
The average cost of disinfecting one acre of vineyard has decreased
from about £137 to about £75, in spite of increased cost of materials
and labour. Equally good, but not superior, results were given by the
more expensive Saprosol [see this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 544]. As liquid
carbon bisulphide is ineffective in the upper layers of the soil and
seriously damages adjoining vineyards, trials were made to prevent this.
It was found that a trench, 1 yard or more in depth, did not prevent
damage to neighbouring vineyards except in heavy, compact soils.
Carbon bisulphide emulsion was tried without success, and experiments
were made with a jelly containing about 80 per cent. of the chemical.
A 4-in. hole at each stock was charged with about 16 oz. of jelly
(containing about 13 oz. of carbon bisulphide) and then filled in with
earth, no Kresol being used. Five weeks later, an examination
showed the result to be a great success, and other trials demonstrated
that the use of the jelly, though it costs as much as Kresol and liquid
bisulphide, permits the work to be done more quickly and avoids
injury to neighbouring vineyards. Trials with carbon tetrachloride
and ethane tetrachloride jelly were made and the latter will be tested
again. Legislation, which has been found valuable, includes the
prohibition of “ Weinbergdriesche” or vineyards left unpruned and
untended for two consecutive years, and the prohibition of replanting
extending to 8 years in the Rhine province [see this Review Ser. A. 1,
pp. 273-274]. This long period results in the destruction, by
starvation, of any Phylloxera which may escape the treatment.
Phyllozera is capable of iving for many years on root-fragments, and
will increase as soon as the ground is replanted with vines. The
campaign in Hesse-Nassau and the Rhine province has_ been
successful in controlling the spread of infection, and at present only
4-7 per cent. of the vine-growers there have suftered. |
Scuoiu (KH. E.). Grasshoppers and their Control.—Tezas Dept. Aqric.,
Austin, Circular, 22nd April, 1914, 6 pp.
This circular gives instructions for the control of various grasshoppers
and recommends that steps should be taken to prevent such an in-
festation as occurred in Texas in the early summer of 1913. The
increase of these pests was due to the dry weather of recent vears (so
unfavourable to the growth of the fungus diseases which attack grass-
hoppers), to the abandonment of a number of farms and their consequent
neglect, and to the destruction of the adults of the blister-beetle which
feeds on garden and field crops, but as a larva devours the eggs of
grasshoppers. The life-history varies slightly with the species, but
usually the eggs are deposited in well-drained firm soil in the late
summer and autumn, the clusters numbering from 30-100 in a pocket.
In Texas, the eggs hatch from the middle of March until mid-May ;
the nymphs remain near the pockets for several days, clustering
together at night and on cool cloudy days ; this is a favourable oppor-
tunity to burn them with a torch or prickly- -pear burner, and while they
are yet feeding near the ground they can be crushed with a roller.
As development proceeds and food becomes scarce, the grasshoppers
migrate in search of food, and although general feeders, they prefer
cultivated crops such as maize, cotton, lucerne, etc., hiding when the
temperature is low in rubbish and weeds. This fact suggests placing
along the fences bundles of straw which should be burnt after the insects
have collected in them. When migration begins they often travel only
in one direction, and barriers should be made, formed by a ditch 18
inches deep and 2 feet wide, with the side next to the threatened
field, perpendicular; post-holes 15 feet apart will soon be filled
with the grasshoppers, which can be killed with hot water or oil, and
fresh holes should be dug as required. Should the making of a ditch
be impracticable, fences of tin or wood can be put up, and post-holes
dug outside or poison baits placed outside the fence. The poison acts
slowly and it is from 8 to 88 hours before the grasshoppers will succumb,
though they do not usually feed after taking the poisonous mixture.
Two baits are recommended. ‘The first consists of 40 lb. wheat bran,
3-5 lb. arsenic or Paris green, 2 gallons sorghum molasses, and about
2 gallons of water; the dry materials to be well mixed together and
the molasses and water added, and applied in rows across the line
of advance, near the fence and weeds which provide cover. For
bait No. 2 (Griddle mixture) take 30-40 lb. fresh horse manure, 2-3 lb.
arsenic or Paris green, 2 lb. salt and water to moisten, mix well and
apply as No.1. These baits should be put out in the afternoon, so that
they do not dry and are ready when the insects are hungry. They
should not be used where stock or poultry have access, though there is
less danger of poisoning animals with bait No. 2. Grasshoppers may
be kept from fruit trees by putting a 6 inch band of smooth tin around
the trunk, or wrapping it with cotton or paper smeared with coal-tar or
tanglefoot. The hopper-dozer gives good results in grain or lucerne
fields; the borders of fields adjacent to woodlands and meadows
should be kept smooth, so that the hopper-dozer can be used when
the infestation occurs. Hgg-capsules ploughed under to a depth of
8 inches may hatch, but the young will be unable to reach the surface.
Autumn ploughing, followed by occasional harrowing, is an excellent
method of destroying the eggs; where there is irrigation, flooding is
valuable. The co-operation of all farmers in the destruction of these
insects is urged.
BopkIn (G. E.). The Grass Moth, Remigia repanda.—JI. Bd. Agric.,
Brit. Guiana, Georgetown, vii, no. 4, April 1914, pp. 171-177.
The larvae of Remigia repanda, F., feed upon sugar-cane, rice, Para
and other grasses throughout the year, appearing in great numbers
after rain, following a long drought. They occur throughout the
coast lands of the Colony and in several districts of the interior,and are
also recorded as a pest in Trinidad and Jamaica, besides over a wide
_area in North and South America. Normally the grass-moth is easily
controlled and does no serious damage, but fields of young sugar-canes
between two and four months old are sometimes stripped ;_ the larvae
520
are often in company with the rice caterpillar (Laphygma frugiperda,
S. and A.), which destroys rice plants of allages. Fields of Para grass
(Panicum muticum) grown for fodder are defoliated, the larvae migrating
to fresh fields in great numbers. During the serious infestation of
1912 the numbers of the second and third generations were reduced
to normal by parasites. The various instars in the life-history
of Renugia repanda, in British Guiana, correspond with those described
in detail by Dyar (Proc. U.S. Nat. Museum, xxii, p. 276); the egg
period lasts 3 or 4 days, the larval 14 to 17 days, and the pupal 9 to 10
days. The larva is called by the Creoles the “ measure worm.” The
natural parasites, which undoubtedly exist in British Guiana, have not
yet been obtained. The Coccinellid, Megilla maculata, de Geer, and
the Demarara robin (Lezstes guianensis) feed on the larvae. On sugar
estates the usual control measure in small infestations is hand-
picking, while dry powdered arsenate of lead is also recommended as
being equally satisfactory and cheaper. When nursery-beds of rice are
attacked, flooding is an effective method, as advised against the rice
caterpillar [see this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 318]. The value of a crop
of Para grass hardly allows of control measures, but where there is a
severe infestation, the field should be burnt after the larvae have
pupated.
Parasite Determinations.—Jl. Bd. Agric., Brit. Guiana, Georgetown,
vil, no. 4, April 1914, p. 200.
The British Guiana Board of Agriculture has recently received deter-
minations from Mr. J. C. Crawford of several insect parasites. The
black parasite so often found in the eggs of Diatraea saccharalis and D.
canella, in the cane-fields of British Guiana is named Prophanurus
alecto, Cwfd., sp. n. Other determinations are as follows: Arrheno-
phagus chionaspidis, Auriv., bred from Chionaspis citrt, Comst., and
Henuchionaspis nunor, Mask. ; Leptomastix dactylopu, How., bred
from Pseudococcus citri, Risso ; Prophanurus thais, Cwfd., sp. n., bred
from the eggs of a Pentatomid bug; Holcencyrtus calypso, Cwid., sp.
n., and Elachertus meridionalis, Cwfd., sp. n., bred from larvae of
Calpodes ethlius, Cram. ; Aphanurus bodkinw, Cwfd., sp. n., bred from
ova of Empicoris variolosus L. (PENTATOMIDAE); Chalcis pandora,
Cwfd., sp. n., bred from the pupa of a Hesperid butterfly on sugar-
cane; Aplastomorpha pratti, Cwid., bred from Lasioderma serricorne,
F.; Prophanurus minutissumus, Ashm., bred from the ova of a
Noctuid moth.
Predaceous Coccinellidae in British Guiana.—J/. Bd. Agric. Brit. Gusana,
Georgetown, vii, no. 4, April 1914, p. 200-201.
Through the Imperial Bureau of Entomology the following deter-
minations have been received of CoccINELLIDAE which are exceedingly
useful in destroying harmful CoccipaE in British Guiana: Azya
pontbrianti, Muls., preying on Saissetia hemisphaerica, Targ., and S. oleae,
Bern. ; Hyperaspis trilineata, Muls., destroying the sugar-cane mealy-
bug (Repersia sp.) ; and Brachyacantha 10-punctata, Melsh., predaceous.
on Pseudococcus sp.
>= Tee rR
521
Averin(A.G.). O nyroBomb motbinbKb. [On Phlyctaenodes sticticalis,
L.}— « Bionnetenb 0 BpequTenax® cenbcxaro xosniicTBa H Mbpaxb
OopbObi Cb HUM.» [Bulletin of pests of Agriculture and methods
of fighting them.] Published by the Entomological and Phyto-
pathological Bureau of the Zemstvo of Charkov. Charkov, no. 3,
April 1914, pp. 15-16.
The author refers to the outbreak of Phlyctaenodes (Eurycreon)
stecticalis which occurred the previous summer, and to the infertility
of the females of the second generation which appeared after the end
of July. At the same time some of the caterpillars of the first genera-
tion did not pupate, but remained over the winter in their cocoons.
Both the infertility and the non-pupation were due to diapuse. In
order to be able to establish the exact number of hibernated cater-
pillars, the author suggests that digging operations should be under-
taken, and in case of discovery of cocoons with living larvae or pupae,
that the finders should communicate with the Bureau.
Lovetanp (C. W.). Cutworms.—Bull., Rhode Island Sta. Bd. Agric.,
Providence, May 1914, 8 pp., 2 figs.
This bulletin contains recent remedies for the control of cutworms.
Where grass-land is to be ploughed up, the turf should be sprayed with
arsenate of lead a few days previously ; after harrowing, the survivors
of the cutworms may be destroyed with poisoned bran. Spraying the
weed-grown borders of fields, and the dipping in arsenate of lead of
plants about to be set, is also advised. Young cabbages and tomatoes
may be surrounded with cylinders of tin or cardboard when first
planted, or trapping with pieces of board between the rows, and hunting
with a lantern at night may be tried. The short rotation of crops is
also advised.
Kp Gopp6b cb xo6nintow. [The campaign against locusts.]—
«CuOupchoe Cenbckoe XosniictBo.» [Siberian Agriculture, |
Tomsk, no. 10, June 1914, pp. 292-293.
This journal quotes a statement from a local paper as to the pros-
pective campaign against locusts in the province of Akmolinsk and
surrounding governments. Some 1,050 square miles in the government
of Tobolsk have been infested by egg-clusters of locusts, according to
investigations in 1913. The campaign will consist in spraying opera-
tions, about £7,000 having been assigned for this purpose, in the form
of a loan to the local population, to be repaid in 10 years. In order
to conduct the campaign, the whole country has been divided into
26 districts, the average area of each being about 40 square miles.
Hpacubie nay4ku Ha orypyaxb. [Red spider on cucumbers.]— « Cag»,
Oroponb uw Baxya.» [Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza},
Astrachan, no. 6, June 1914, pp. 366-367.
An article, reprinted from the Russian journal, The Fruit-Grower and
Market-Gardener, deals with the damage done to cucumbers by
Letranychus telarius. This mite, which is so small that it can only be
seen with the aid of a magnifier, injures cucumbers and various other
plants grown in hot-beds.
(C 55)
Cc
522
According to Kiese, of Erfurt, these mites can breed only when
the air in the hot-beds becomes dry and their development is assisted
when the earth is loose and dries quickly. Should the pest appear,
the plants must be immediately sprayed with tobacco-extract, the
hot-beds being fumigated with sulphur and the walls and frames
sprayed with tobacco extract and limewashed.
Schumann, of Detmold, recommends powdering the leaves with
tobacco dust or spraying with soap nicotin emulsion, or with soap
to which some lysol or kerosene is added. This remedy cannot be
applied in the case of plants which already bear blossoms and set
fruit, as the emulsion injures them.
SacHaRov (N.). QO HBKOTOPbIXb MHCEKTMCHAAXdb KM yHrMcuszaxd,
ynotpeOnvembixb Oe3b u3BecTH. [On some insecticides and fungi-
cides used without lime. ]|— « Capt, Oropogb u baxya.» [Orchard,
Market-Garden and Bachza], Astrachan, no. 6, June 1914,
pp. 378-381.
The Astrachan Station has experimented on some insecticides which
can be used without lime, it being very difficult to obtain quick-lime
of good quality in the government. Good results were obtained with
“‘Jazurine”’ against vine-mildew. During the year comparative experi-
ments were conducted with “djipsin” and “ uraniagrin,” the first-
named not proving effective, while uraniagrin was successful against
the larvae of Apocheima (Biston) pomonaria, Hb., Euproctis chrysorrhoea,
Clisvocampa (Malacosoma) neustria, Hyponomeuta malinellus, and a
Noctuid. In the case of caterpillars of Apochewma pomonaria, Hb.,
the death rate from Paris green was 80 per cent., from uraniagrin
70 to 72 per cent., from djipsin nil; in another experiment the death
rate from uraniagrin was 75 per cent., from djipsin 11 per cent.
Uraniagrin is a bright green powder, very thin, easily mixed with
water, does not settle down in the bottom of the sprayer, nor burn
the leaves, and requires no lime; the proportion necessary for the
destruction of the caterpillars is about 1 Ib. in 65 gallons of water.
BoppOa cb capanyed. [The campaign against locusts.}—«Cagb,
Oropond u Baxya.» [Orchard, Market-Garden and Bachza), Astra-
chan, no. 6, June 1914, p. 409.
The hatching of locusts in 1914 occurred later than was the case in the
previous year, the first hatching in the southern parts of the government
having been recorded between the 24th and 26th May. The total
area attacked is smaller than last year, while the number of spots
infested is greater and they are more widely distributed over the whole
delta of the Volga. The campaign was started immediately after
hatching, and Paris green gave excellent results. No hatching took
place in localities where in the previous year measures were taken
against the pest. The egg-clusters in the southern part of the district
of Zarev along the “ limans” (a name given in S. Russia to lagoons
formed by the great rivers) have perished, and no hatching has been
yet noticed in the northern part of this district.
: |
ees ht tS
> /? ="
523
OT4eTb 0 pbaTenbHocTH HiescKow Cranyiv no Ooppotb cb sBpequte-
NAMM pacTeHid npw FOxwHo-Pycchomb OOdwectet Moowpenia
Semnentnian w Cenbcxou Mpombiwnennoctu 3a 1913 rob. [Report
on the work at the Kiev Station for the fighting of plant pests
of the South Russian Society for promoting Agriculture, for
1913.]— « Xo3akcTBo.» [Choziaistvo], Kiev, no. 20, 12th June,
pp. 680-686, and no. 21, 19th June 1914, pp. 713-718.
After referring to the work on various insect pests dealt with in a
special report [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 341], an account is given
of further experiments on the artificial breeding of the Chalcid,
Trichogramma (Pentarthron) semblidis, Aur., in the eggs of Euxoa
segetum [see this Review, Ser. A, i, 539-541]. The work has been done on
eggs of H. segetum laid in the laboratory, two generations having
been obtained between January and June 1913. It appeared that
freshly laid eggs, 1 or 2 days after deposition, are the most suitable for
infection ; the imago of the parasites hatches in from 9 to 12 days, and
when fed on sugar-water lives up to 10 days. The females are able to
Oviposit immediately after emerging from the egg and during the whole
of their life, whether fecundated or not, but the eggs infected by them
during the first days of their life produced parasites more uniformly.
Eggs of the host kept at a temperature of 27° F. for a month were still
able to produce the parasites, and infected eggs can be kept at a low
temperature for a period of 5 months without causing their death.
These parasites also infect the eggs of Cydia pomonella, Barathra
(Mamestra) brassicae, L., Polia suasa, Schiff. (Mamestra dissimilis,
Knoch), and Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L., the eggs of the :ast three species
being attacked more freely than those of C. pomonella. The eggs of
Pieris brassicae are infected only in the absence of others, while
those of Lymantria dispar, L., and of Lecanwum bituberculatum, Targ.,
were untouched. More details of these experiments will be published
in due course.
The Station has experimented on catching insects in troughs with
molasses ; 26,923 NocrurpaE were caught between 11th August and
19th September in troughs placed on beet plantations and black fallow
land to the number of about 4 to the acre; amongst these insects
only 530 proved to be EF. segetum, which is explained by the scarcity
of the second generation of this species in the year under report.
Caterpillars of Phlyctaenodes sticticalis have injured some beet planta-
tions in the government of Poltava, and the locality being visited in
June by V. V. Dobrovliansky, it was found that the injured spots were
isolated from one another, comprising altogether not more than 53
acres, the remainder of the plantations being practically free. Adults
were found in small numbers, and no eggs were noticed. Trap trenches
were dug round the attacked areas and the plants were sprayed with
Paris green.
In May, Melolontha hippocastani, F., in company with single speci-
mens of M. melolontha, damaged apple, pear and plum trees in one
district of the government of Kiev, the foliage being devoured to a
large extent. Pogonochaerus fascicularis, Panz., Magdalis violacea, L.,
and Pissodes notatus, F., caused the withering of the last year’s leading
shoots of pines in the Zvenigorodok Forest; the removal and burning
of the attacked shoots was the remedy applied.
)
:
.
:
524
Boropin (D. M.). Bopb6a cb speputenamu vw Gonb3HAMM CafoBb Bb
iH. [The fight against pests and diseases of orchards in June.]
—«XyTOpAHMHb.» ([Chutorianin], Poltava, no. 24, 25th June
1914, pp. 697-701, 5 figs.
The chief pest of orchards in June is Cydia (Carpocapsa) pomo-
nella, the caterpillars of which do enormous damage to apples, pears,
plums and apricots. The author gives the remedies directed against
the second generation of these pests, and especially figures and describes
the mode of preparation of trap-belts. All fallen fruits should be
collected and either destroyed or put for some hours in water in order
to kill the caterpillars contained in them.
The author further directs attention to Melolontha, the pupae of
which must be collected and destroyed. This remedy is only effective
if applied by all the fruit-growers of the same district. The
destruction of wild blackthorn is also recommended.
Nite: Bonpocbi 4 oTBbTbi. [Queries and answers.] « XO3AACTBO.»
—[Choziaistvo], Kiev, no. 25, 17th July 1914, p. 890.
The author says in reply to a subscriber who sent to the Kiev Station
samples of sainfoin, that they were injured by the larvae of Contarinia
onobrychidis, Kieff., which suck the leaves, causing them to curl.
The life-history of this insect has been but little studied, and no remedies
have been discovered, but the damage done is not important.
Boropin (D.). O nonbitKaxb GOoppOs! Cb MaKCKUMb XpyLOMb pH
nomMowM rpuiKa Botrytrs tenella. [On endeavours to fight the
larvae of Melolontha by means of the fungus Botrytis tenella.}—
« XyTOPAHHHb» [Chutorianin], Poltava, no. 27, 17th July 1914,
p. 792.
In reply to a subscriber the author points out that the control of
larvae of Melolontha by means of the fungus, Botrytis tenella, as
recommended by Le Moult and Guard, has not given satisfactory
practical results, although in the laboratory the experiments proved
successful.
Runner (G. A.). The so-called Tobacco Wireworm in Virginia.—
U.S. Dept. Agric., Washington, D.C., Bull. no. 78, 18th May 1914,
30 pp., 2 pls., 5 figs. ;
The tobacco Crambus (Crambus caliginosellus, Clem.) occurs in
most of the tobacco-growing districts of the Hastern States, especially
in Maryland and Virginia. In the latter State, the damage to the
tobacco crop from this insect alone is estimated to average at least
£166,000 annually. In Maryland, C. caliginosellus has for many years
been a serious pest of tobacco and maize, and during 1897-1900
many fields of young maize were nearly destroyed by it. It has
also been recorded as damaging maize in Delaware and New Jersey.
Although only recorded from North America, its preference for the
naturalised Buckhorn plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and the oxeye
daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum) points to the possible introduc-
tion of “. caliginosellus from Europe. Other wild plants upon which
eee eee
525
larvae of the tobacco Crambus have been found feeding are: wild
aster or “ stickweed ” (Aster ericoides and other species), wild carrot
‘(Daucus carota), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella), Senecio jacobaea,
‘and white-top (flea-bane) (Hrigeron annuus) and other species.
It is probable that severe injury to cultivated crops only occurs in
localities where natural food-plants are exceedingly abundant, and
where crops are planted at the time the larvae are completing their
growth. The eradication or control of the two chief food-plants,
therefore, will result in comparative immunity from loss due to this
‘ insect.
The greatest emergence of the moths takes place during the first and
second weeks of August, although individuals occur from the end of
June to the beginning of September. The females die soon after
egg-laying, the average number of eggs being 177, and there is
apparently only one generation a year, the eggs hatching in summer
and the larvae completing their growth during the following year.
. Most of the larvae are in the pupal stage during the first half of July.
Larvae collected from maize are considerably lighter in colour than
those from tobacco. The moths fly during late afternoon, on dark
days, and during the early part of the night, and are attracted to
light in comparatively small numbers.
When meadows are ploughed up and planted with tobacco, serious
‘injury frequently occurs, but this is invariably due to the presence of
the weeds mentioned above, and does not occur where there had
previously been a clean growth of grass or clover. The larvae, which
feed chiefly at night, attack tobacco soon after planting, usually
just below the surface of the ground, but the whorls of terminal
leaves of newly set plants are also damaged. The smaller individuals
often enter the stalk and tunnel upward, and when not feeding may
be found in cylindrical, web-lined galleries extending from the plant,
several inches below the surface of the soil. Injured plants may
usually be detected by their stunted or wilted appearance, which is
especially noticeable in dry weather. |
In the case of maize, the larvae attack the young plants near the
ground, but when the stalks reach a height of a foot or more compara-
tively little damage is done. Injury is less severe in wet weather,
‘as the plants are more vigorous and the weeds more plentiful.
Before pupating, the larvae seem to pass a rather long inactive period
in their cells. Pupation takes place at a distance of from 1 to 6 inches
from the food-plant and at a depth varying from one-half to 4 inches ;
_ the average duration of the pupal stage is from 10 to 15 days.
Besides spiders of several species, various Carabid beetles feed on
the larvae of C. caliginosellus, including Calosoma calidum, F., and
Chlaenius tomentosus, Say. Adults and larvae of Harpalus pennsyl-
vanius, De G., and H. faunus, Say, may also attack them. Ants
occasionally attack the larvae and among the bird enemies are: quails
“(Colinus virginianus), kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus), the wood
-pewee (Myiochares virens), and it is thought that barn-swallows and
_meadow-larks are also beneficial.
As tests with various insecticides and repellants, including arsenate
of lead, Paris green, tobacco extract, nicotin sulphate, tobacco-dust,
‘kerosene, kainit, and calcium cyanamide, gave no results which would
indicate any practical value, the author recommends cultural methods
526
of control. Field experiments, of which the details are given, show
that the most effective methods of control consist of the removal of
the weeds which are food-plants, combined with a systematic rotation
of crops. A rotation found very satisfactory is one of seven years :—
first year, tobacco, fertilised heavily; second year, wheat without
fertilising ; third and fourth years, mixed grasses and clover, ; fifth
year, maize, with barnyard manure and a small amount of fertiliser;
sixth year, cowpeas, fertilised with a little acid phosphate and sulphate
of potash ; seventh year, tobacco.
Summer ploughing and the growing of cowpeas the year before
crops subject to injury are planted, have also been found to be effective.
The author emphasises the fact that the larvae cannot survive the
winter in the soil unless plants on which they are able to feed are
present. A bibliography of 19 references (1860-1912) concludes the
article.
Boe (J.). Die Schildlaus des Maulbeerbaumes (Diaspis pentagona,
T. T.) und deren biologische Bekampfung. [The mulberry scale,
Aulacaspis (Diaspis) pentagona, and its biological control.}—
—ZLeitschr. fiir angewandte Entomologie, Berlin, i, no. 1, April
1914, pp. 196-213, 13 figs.
The infestation of mulberry trees by Aulacaspis and its control by
Prospaltella are described and details are given of Berlese’s work.
The following suggestion, made by Del Guercio to the author, is thought
worth adopting where the diffusion of Prospaltella is aimed at. A
nursery is established with some hundreds of young mulberry seedlings
and these are then infested with parasitised scales. The following
spring the young trees are planted in groups of four to six near the
infested mulberry plantations and removed two or three years later.
In this way a constant source of infestation is at hand and there is
no danger of Prospaltella being killed by the withering of the twigs
on which it and its host live. The author finds that Prospaltella can
withstand 10 degrees of frost in winter and prolonged heat, drought
and humidity in summer. ;
JABLONOWSKI (J.). Ueber einen neuen Getreideschadling aus Ungarn:
Halmeule, Orca (Tapinostola) musculosa, Hb. [A new grain pest
in Hungary.|—Zevtschr. fiir angewandte Entomologie, Berlin, i,
no. 1, April 1914, pp. 160-171.
In Russia, the Noctuid, Oria (Tapinostola) musculosa, Hb., has been
reported since 1882 and specially studied there by Mokrzecki [see
this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 391]. It was thought to be rare in Hungary,
but in 1912, and more especially in 1913, it occurred in abundance
there. The damage done in June resembles that done by Chortophila
sepia, Mg., and sometimes both species may be found on the same
stalk. As much as 100 per cent. of the plants may be attacked, but
as a rule, only those portions of a field bordering on a road suffer from
Oria. The summer generation of Chlorops also attacks the edges
of the fields and this may account for the fact that Orva is seldom
reported as a pest. The author refers to Mokrzecki as regards control
measures [see ref. above. ]
<<.
th
EE ——— -——— -, -— °° °° °°»
;
527
Russett (H. M.). The Rose Aphis —U.S. Dept. Agric., Washington,
D.C., Bull. no. 90, May 1914, 15 pp., 4 figs., 3 pls.
_ In this paper the author deals with the rose aphis, Macrosiphum rosae,
L., as observed near Los Angeles, Cal., and at Washington, D.C. A
description, with illustrations, is given of the various stages and of the
habits. In the climate of southern California reproduction occurs
throughout the year and eggs were not observed. At Washington, the
author found a few eggs on the sides of dormant buds of rose-
bushes on 29th November 1912. The rose aphis increases very rapidly
during the autumn and spring, but during the summer the increase
is less rapid and natural enemies keep it in check; in the winter
development is slower and reproduction less. From October 1909
to 10th March 1910, the author carried out experiments under normal
conditions in South California, from which he concludes that during
winter the rose aphis may give birth to 45 young over a period of 20
days, while in the summer the period is probably shorter and the
number of offspring greater, the maximum length of the life-cycle being
approximately 18 days for apterous and 25 days for alate females
in November. During the autumn of 1912, from observations in the
Insectary greenhouse at Washington, at an average mean tem-
perature of 67° F., the period of development was shortened and the
number of young increased. With a life-cycle of 25 days there would
be more than 12 generations in the year, and 7 or 8 generations more
in the warmer weather.
The author observed a white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys)
and on another occasion a California house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus
frontalis) destroying large numbers of this aphid. An undetermined
insect parasite of Macrosiphum rosae was found on 13th June 1910, the
full-grown larvae having spun cocoons between the dead body of the
host and the leaf; the imagos did not emerge. The author bred a
Braconid, Ephedrus incompletus, Prov., from M. rosae at Washington,
in 1912. Five different species of SyRPHIDAE, some of which
are figured, were reared in 1910 from larvae found feeding on M. rosae,
namely : Syrphus ribesu, L., S. opinator, O.8., Allograpta fracta, O.S.,
Eupeodes volucris, O.S., and Lasiophthicus pyrasti, L. The adult flies
were seen to desert the rose-bushes as they became shaded from the
sun. Small numbers of Hippodamia ambigua, Lec., were seen
throughout these observations, though they rarely appeared to be
feeding on the aphids.
In March 1913, in a greenhouse at Washington, four badly infested
bushes were sprayed with a solution made as follows: “ Black leaf 40”
4 0z., whale-oil soap 4 lb., water 24 gallons. The terminal buds
and tender shoots were slightly injured, but all the aphids were
killed; probably a 25 per cent. weaker solution could have
been used with equal success. In another case infested rose-
bushes, trained against a wall, were successfully sprayed with
nicotin sulphate, 1 part in 1,000, mixed both with and without
soap (the former being more efficient). Solutions more dilute than
1 part in 1,400 of 40 per cent. nicotin sulphate were unsatisfactory,
though with the addition of soap they were slightly improved. The
pressure was estimated at 90 lb., a compressed air sprayer and Bordeaux
type of nozzle being used, with a fine driving spray. Whale-oil or
528
laundry soap should be added at the rate of 1 lb. to 50 gallons of the
mixture. A small amount of spray may be made as follows: 1 tea-
spoonful of 40 per cent. nicotin solution added to 1 to 2 gallons of water,
and 4 oz. whale-oil soap, shaved finely and dissolved in hot water..
Solutions containing less nicotin should be mixed at the strength
recommended by the manufacturers and the soap added as above.
When such solutions are unobtainable good results can be got by
dissolving 1 1b. of whale-oil or 21b. of laundry soap in from 4-6 gallons
of water. Water alone applied in a forcible stream can be used as a
control, but is likely to increase milc'ew, to which disease the roses
of California are especially subject. Nicotin solutions should always
be used if possible, as they give better results. Where mildew occurs
copper-sulphate should be added to the nicotin solution, or a solution of
copper-sulphate should be sprayed on after the water treatment,
1 Ib. to 50 gallons of water or nicotin solution. The author concludes
from his experiments that nicotin solutions may be used at less
strength but more frequently than has before been thought necessary.
In greenhouses a further dilution is necessary, but it is considered
safe to use nicotin solution at a strength of 1 part to 2, 000 of water,
if there is no sunlight on the glass at the time.
Pret (H.). Die Lebensweise der Raupenfliegen. [The life-history
of insect-parasites of caterpillars.|—Zevtschr. fiir angewandte
Entomologie, Berlin, 1, no. 1, April 1914, pp. 172-195, 7 figs.
In dealing with parasitic Hymenoptera and Diptera the author
adheres to the name “ Raupenfliegen ” [caterpillar-flies], as he thinks
it less confusing than systematic names, and also because the majority
of entomoparasitic Diptera, particularly those of economic value,
live in caterpillars. The oviparous and the viviparous species
may be divided into three groups and the following six types of infesta-
tion result: A. Oviparous Species—I. The egg laid on the host
(Tachina); II. The egg laid in the host (Hyalomyza) ; III. The egg
laid beside the host (Gonia). B. Viviparous species—I. The larva
deposited on the host (Blepharidea); II. The larve, deposited in the
host (Compsilura) ; III. The larva deposited beside the host (Panzeria).
Fiscuer (E.). Ueber die Ursachen und Symptome der Flacherie und
Polyederkrankheit der Raupen. [On the causes and symptoms of
Flacherie and Polyhedral Disease in Caterpillars. |—Bvol. Central-
blatt. Leipzig, xxxiv, no. 5, 20th May 1914, pp. 308-328. |
The author has experimented with species of Vanessa and Pyrameis
on the causation and symptoms of flacherie, and gives the physio-
logical aspects of the question, comparing his results with those
obtained in Italy by Verson on silkworms. Certain conditions of the
intestine, known as intestinal catarrh, are regarded by the author as
different from those which predispose the caterpillar to flacherie. -
Flacherie and polyhedral disease are regarded as distinct on the basis
of the form of the polyhedral bodies, and the symptoms of each are
discussed.
NOTICES.
: “The Editor will be glad to receive prompt information as to the
— _ appearance of new pests, or of known pests in districts which have
He hitherto been free from them, and will welcome any suggestion the
adoption of which would increase the usefulness of the Review.
~ Secretaries of Societies and Editors of Journals willing to exchange
their publications with those of the Bureau, are requested to com-
oe " municate with the Assistant Editor, 27, Elvaston Place, Queen’s
ip o Gate, London, S.W.
a 3 a The subseription to the aie: is 12s. per annum, post free; or
re - the two series may be taken separately, Series A (Agricultural)
to 8s., and Series B (Medical and Veterinary), 5s. per annum.
All orders and subscriptions should be sent to Messrs. DULAU
Ss - Co., Lid., 37, Soho Square, London, W.
‘ here. We ,
, re ad
CONTENTS.
Plant Pests in the Far East .. oc
Reports on Insects of the Year 19131 in Ontario
The Immature Stages of the Tenthredinoidea we eh
The Causes of damaged Wheat-straw in New South ‘Wales Be oie
The Peach Tip Moth in New South Wales .. Pa emake bi!
The Leaf Case Moth, (Hyalareta hiibneri, Westw. yi in Victoria rds ete
The Swarming of Coccinellidsin Italy .. .. ee
The Host Plants of Aphis rumicis, L. a
Campaign against Otiorrhynchus in the Crimea...
Concerning some Aphelininae.. - a5. ris
New Tachinidae from North ‘America bo em anes
Oria musculosa in S. Russia 3
Remedies against Hoplocampa fulvicornis, Peylla mali on .
Forfieula auricularia in Russia .. }
An Order declaring the Government of Astrachan and 7 Provinee pie
of Uralsk to be free from Phylloxera ‘cies te .
New Parasitic Hymenoptera from British Guiana . yess
Mysia oblongo-gutiata feeding on ae in | England ob eee eae
Pests of Rape in 8. Russia og: Saran
Insect Pests in Scotland in 1913
Insect Pests in Baden in 1913 : a Sie oY,
The protection of Fruit Trees in Belgium a0 eit Conon
_ Pests of Market Gardens in Russia .. i Paae te ha
Mites in Grain and Flour in Russia .. eae aoe
Barathra brassicae in Charkov in 1913 oe ;
Blattid and Lepidopterous parasites in Egypt Se
The Tenthredinidae of the Pear in Belgium. .
Notes on some injurious and beneficial Mites in Egypt
Cryptoblabes gnidiella, a new Cotton Pest in Egypt ES
The Date Stone Beetle (Coccotrypes dactyliperda) in Egypt ote
A natural enemy of Cosmopolites sordidain Fiji ..
A Braconid Parasite of the Cotton Boll Word 1 in Egypt. by a
An Acarine Parasite of the Pink Bollworm in . Egypt es
Destruction of Locusts in Turkestan. .
Currant and Gooseberry Aphids in Maine .. be My eee :
Control of Polychrosis botrana in France é zie eo: ree
A Handbook of Italian Plant Pests .. 2 er oe
Pests of Bananas in Queensland ‘ i
The Chief Insect pests of Currants and Gooseberries in Coiade :
Termites in Ceylon” .. ay 3
Plants attacked by Ayleborus guritidiia | in Ceylon .. Be nea
Eriophyes ribis on Currants in the Govt. of Charkov.. mers oF
Report for 1913o0f the Station for the protection of plants in Warsaw haes
Insect Pests in Georgia (Russia)im 1913... ke | : ape eens
New parasitic Hymenoptera in Turkestan .. oa fens
The use of Iron Sulphate in Orchards in Astrachan- Peer
Microlepidopterous Pests of Vines near Kiev, Russia Rae sents: <
Local differences in Phylloxera ot a me i ae
Phylloxera in Franconia =e - aN a nee ares
Phylloxera control in Prussia . Sh ot Shales
Grasshoppers and their control in Texas... ou os
The Grass Moth (Remigia repanda) in British Guiana Site see
Determinations of Parasites from British Guiana .. im as,
Predaceous Coccinellidae in British Guiana . ate
Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L., in the Govt. of Charkov, Russia Sle
Cutworms ; Sise
The campaign against Locusts i in Siberia .. By
Red Spider on Cucumbers oe rere)
Onsome Insecticides and Fungicides used without Limei inAstrachan 5
The Campaign against Locusts in the Delta of the is a ie
Pests reported upon by the Kiev Station in 1918" '7."; ; eta
Garden Pests in June in 8. Russia ..- Me os sieht
Contarinia onobrychidis in the Govt. of Kiev oe
The control of Melolontha by Botrytis tenella a failure: Ag od ae
Crambus caliginosellus in Virginia. 3 ;
Aulacaspis pentagona, and its biological ae j
Oria museulosa, a new Grain Pest in Hunga ath
The Rose- Aphis (Macrosiphum rosae) in the United States ie
Tae Life-history of Insect Parasites .. : ’ rah
Flacherie in Lepidopterous Larvae .. sis S Me ae
1 “Part 9.—pp. 529-576. = SEPT, 1914.
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Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Davip PRAIN, C.LE., C.M.G., F.B.S., Director,
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Dr. A. E, SuIPLEY, F.R.S., Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge.
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Mr. F. V. Tuxopap, Vice-Principal, South Eastern Agricul it val F
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Mr. J. A. C. Trey, Foreign Office.
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Haenet (K.). Angewandte Entomologie und Vogelschutz, [Applied
entomology and bird-protection.}—Zeitschr. fiir angewandté Ento-
— mologie, Berlin, i, no. 1, April 1914, pp. 214-222.
The author says that parasites only increase when their hosts are
numerous, so that effective parasitic control begins when the injury
is already present, but that birds, which do not confine themselves to
‘preying on given species of insects, will multiply at all times, provided
that other conditions are suitable. They, therefore, do preventive
work, while the action of parasites is curative. (In a discussion which
followed this address, Prof. Schwangart pointed out that useful
insects are unceasingly doing preventive work.) Insect pests are
usually attacked by parasites when in the larval stage, but birds
_ prey on all stages. Bird-protection is, therefore, an important factor
in the biological control of insect pests, though it is difficult to produce
exact statistics of the good work they do. In 1912, several threatening
infestation centres of Ips (Tomicus) curvidens appeared near
Heinersreut, in Upper Franconia, but large numbers of spotted-
woodpeckers, tits and nut-hatches prevented any damage being done.
In the district of Fischstein, when investigating an attack by Dendroc-
tonus micans on felled timber, the author noticed that in wet weather
these beetles prevented the water from running into their galleries
_ by placing their bodies outwards half-way through the frass-holes.
In this position they were seen to be eaten by a nut-hatch. In the
_ autumn of 1909, the author observed two stretches of copse, adjoining
one another, both of which contained nun-moth eggs, one being twice
as heavily infested as the other. Buird-protection was carried on in
the one, while its less threatened neighbour was left to itself. In 1910,
the number of caterpillars in the protected area was only one-
thousandth that of the eggs observed, while in the other wood one-
_ tenth of the eggs had hatched out. Dr. Storp reported that in 1908
_nun-moth pupae in enormous numbers on the Schnaken estate in
East Prussia were attacked by swarms of starlings, which in two or
_ three days destroyed them so completely that sufficient could not be
obtained for observation purposes.
_ Hopexiss (H. E.). Susceptibility to Spraying Mixtures of Hibernating
Pear Psylla Adults and their Eggs.—New York Agric. Expt. Sta.,
_ Geneva, Bull. no. 387, May 1914, pp. 389-418, 2 figs. 3 plates.
Owing to the ineffectiveness of summer spraying as a control
| ~‘Ieasure against the pear psylla nymphs, this station has been investi-
F gating the results of spraying the other stages, particularly the
hibernating adults and their eggs. The variable results obtained in
_ the past were probably due to the influence of seasonal conditions on
_ the habits of the hibernating adults. It was observed that transfor-
: _ mation to the winter adult stage took place in late September or
early October, and hibernation occurred on all varieties of pear trees
_ and to a less extent on apple, cherry, peach and plum trees, when these
“were near infested pear trees ; harbourage was sometimes provided by
adjacent outbuildings, fences, ‘etc. Two tables are given showing that
_ these wintering adults do not seek protection until continued freezin
_ temperatures are reached. Thus in the mild winter of 1913 few
(C67) Wt. P8657. 1500. 9.14. B.&F.Ltd. Gp. 11/8. A
530
hibernated before the end of December, whilst during mild spells in
November and the early part of December of 1910 and 1911, at a
mean temperature of about 42° F., large numbers of hibernating
individuals appeared and fed on the bud-spurs and tender growth in
the centre of the trees ; they neither fly nor hop at these times, which
are therefore suitable for spraying. The directions given regarding the
spraying of both hibernating adults and eggs are the same as those in
a recent paper by the author and Mr. P. J. Parrott [see this Review
Ser. A, 1, p. 127], but full details of the experiments leading to these
conclusions are given in the present paper. The importance of
spraying at both stages is emphasised ; tables are given showing the
state of the hibernating adults and the condition of the pear trees under
the varying temperatures between 26th March and 9th May, for four
years, from which it appears that the movements of this pest depend
entirely on the temperature. Oviposition generally begins a few
days after the spring migration from winter quarters by the adults,
most of the eggs being laid within two weeks of that date. The results
of hatching experiments are also tabulated, and observations over
several years suggest the period to be about three weeks.
ScHULTZE (A.). Die afrikanischen Seidenspinner und ihre wirtschaft-
liche Bedeutung. [African silkworms and their economic import-
ance. |—Zeitschr. ftir angewandte Entomologie, Berlin, i, no. 1,
April 1914, pp. 223-231.
Indigenous African silkworms [see this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 33
and u, pp. 547-5491, which produce “ silk waste,” are preyed upon
by many birds. The chief insect enemy is the ichneumon, Onevlella —
formosa. It has still to be ascertained whether this parasite emerges
from the nests of Anaphe infracta before or after the host. The
author disagrees with Morstatt, who has stated that the former is
the case. The Tineid caterpillar, Metoecis carnifex, Coq., is found
in the nests of Anaphe and Hypsoides, but only appears to attack
dead individuals, on which it feeds. :
Ware (G. F.). Destruction of Germs of Infectious Bee Diseases by
Heating.—U.S. Dept. Agric., Washington, D.C., Bull. no. 92, 15th
May 1914, 8 pp.
In the course of this paper the author gives a summary of 55
experiments, carried out during the last two years, with the object
of discovering the amount of heat required to destroy the germs of
disease in bees. In these experiments, solutions of diseased material
were kept at various temperatures for periods of 10 minutes, and
subsequently fed to healthy colonies of bees. The results are grouped ~
into tables, the first dealing with European foul-brood caused by —
Bacillus pluton, in which 13 inoculation experiments are summarised ;
these show that at temperatures above 63° C. (145° F.) the germ was —
rendered innocuous. Experiments with American foul-brood, caused
by Bacillus larvae, were less conclusive, but the critical temperature
is probably less than 98° C. (208° F.). The infecting agent causing ©
sac-brood disease has not yet been found, though it has been shown
to pass through the pores of earthenware filters [see this Review, Ser. A, i,
531
p- 186]. The conclusion drawn from 22 inoculation experiments
with this disease. is that the sac-brood infecting agent is destroyed
at a temperature between 131° F. and 140° F. Nosema disease is
probably the same as that described 57 years ago by Donhoff, and
tedescribed five years ago by Zander, who identified the infecting
agent as a protozoan, which he named Nosema apis. The multiplication
and growth of this parasite chiefly occur in the walls of the stomach.
Many weak colonies show a high percentage of infected bees, particu-
larly in spring, while even strong colonies often contain a small per-
centage of individuals thus infected. The geographical distribution
of this disease is wide, and extends over Europe, North America and
Australia. Details are given of 20 inoculation experiments with
Nosema apis, and this protozoan is apparently not infective after
being heated to a temperature of 57°C. (137°6° F.) or higher for
10 minutes. Beekeepers should in practice use rather more than
the minimum temperature given. The melting point of beeswax
hes between 62° C. (143°6° F.) and 64° C. (147°2° F.), which temperature
would destroy European foul-brood, sac-brood and Nosema disease.
Inseet pests and fungoid diseases in Barbados, 1912-13.—Agric. News,
- Barbados, xii, nos. 315 and 316, 23rd May and 6th June 1914,
pp- 170-171 and 186.
The matter abstracted here forms part of the Report of the Local
Department of Agriculture. Experiments in fumigating cotton-seed
with sulphur dioxide showed that this gas did not penetrate more
than 3 inches into the mass of seed sufficiently to kill the insects
experimented with, owing to the absorption of the gas by the outer
layers of seed. Hydrocyanic acid gas was also unsatisfactory, the
depth of penetration varying from only 2 inches to 10 inches. Carbon
bisulphide was efficient, used at the rate of 1 dram per cubic foot of
space in the fumigating room, which was kept closed for 24 hours.
The order prohibiting the importation of sugar-cane, etc., from
countries where the froghopper is known to exist was, on 21st November
1912, made to apply to the island of Grenada, where a species of
froghopper (not on sugar-cane) had been reported to occur. The
leaf-blister mite spread to the south-eastern portion of Barbados,
where it had not occurred in the previous cotton season. Fear of
the extinction of the cotton industry does not seem to be well-founded,
since in other West Indian islands this mite has been a pest of cotton
_ for the last ten years, and cotton continues to produce profitable crops,
owing to careful plant selection (yielding pure strains of early-maturing
Sea Island cotton), the picking off of the first-infested leaves, and, in
some instances, the complete destruction of the old cotton as soon
as the crop is finished, in order to secure an interval of several weeks
before the planting of a new one. Plant inspection resulted in the
interception of seven species of scale-insects, several species of aphids,
and five species of caterpillars not known to occur in Barbados. The
root borer (Diaprepes abbreviatus, L.) is still being studied [see this
Review, Ser. A, i, p. 98, and ii, p. 32]. On one estate 69,700 were col-
lected, the greatest abundance being in late October and early
November. The discovery in the previous year of the situation in
which the eggs were laid made it possible to collect these when the
(C67) A2
532
beetles were most prevalent; 6,138 egg-batches, each consisting of
94 eggs on an average, were collected. The egg-laying period in
captivity lasts from 3 to 7 days, the shorter period probably being
more usual in the field. The beetles are active at night, hiding by day
in the axils of the leaves of sugar-cane and maize and among the leaves
of pigeon peas and cassava. The eggs were found fastened between
the wind-split tips of cane leaves, rarely in the same situation on maize
and never on other plants. The field toad (Bufo agua) feeds upon
the beetles. When the eggs hatch the grubs drop to the ground, and
many are believed to be destroyed by ants. It is suggested that
it might be possible to increase the abundance of predaceous ants
in the cane-fields and even to introduce additional species. The
newly-hatched grubs penetrate into the ground and feed on the cane-
roots ; later, from December to February, they attack the stem of
the cane stool underground, causing the canes to wither as if killed
by drought. The root fungus (Marasmius sacchari) also produces
this result and is often found together with the root-borer.
In many cases the fungus is secondary in its attack and in its effect.
The practice of digging cane-stumps immediately after reaping
the canes is again recommended, but it is stated to have no
value if the stumps are left till they begin to dry out, because the
grubs leave them and penetrate into the soil, where they may lie dormant
for some time. This dormant period has been studied, and grubs
have lived in captivity without feeding for periods up to 334 days.
This ability on the part of Diaprepes grubs has an important bearing |
on the problem of control, and explains the attacks on young canes
when these follow in the same fields without an intermediate crop.
No insect parasite of the root borer has been found, in spite of careful
search, but two grubs were found attacked by the green muscardine
fungus (Metarrhizwum anisopliae), and trials are being made with this
fungus.
The cane leaf beetle (Myochrous armatus, Baly) is a potential
tather than an actual pest. Phytalus smithi is known in Barbados as
the brown hard-back, and it has also been called the Mauritius hard-
back, since it is a serious pest in that island [see this Rewew, Ser. A,
i, p. 28]. Nowell has investigated the life-history and habits of this
beetle and its parasite, Tiphia parallela, [see this Review, Ser. A, 1,
p. 254] and supplies the following information. The female Phytalus
deposits her eggs singly at a depth of 4-6 inches in the ground; the
life-cycle occupies from 265 to 333 days. The adults are most abundant
in May or June; though not much attracted to light they sometimes
fly into houses and are caught in light traps. Tvzphia parallela, is a
very efficient parasite of this pest ; its life-cycle occupies about 50 days
and each female lays about 70 eggs. This Tzphia does not seem to
be generally distributed over Barbados, as Phytalus occasionally
appears in numbers without any Tiphia being found. The ordinary
hard-back (Lxgyrus tumulosus) is parasitised by Dvelis dorsata m a
similar way, the chief differences being that the sting of the Diels
female produces a fatal degree of paralysis in the larva and the Diels
egg is deposited on the ventral instead of the dorsal surface.
The cane-fly (Delphax saccharivora) is reported to have attacked
both old and young canes, but was apparently controlled by natural —
enemies, principally Chrysopa spp. The rust-mite of canes (Tarsonemus
533
| spinipes) is of genera] occurrence, but apparently caused little damage.
_ The leaf-blister mite of cotton (Eriophyes gossypii) has spread over
_all the cotton-growing areas and has become a very serious pest. The
_ removal by law of all old cotton before the season for replanting offers,
under Barbados conditions, a fair chance of getting rid of it entirely.
Cotton plants of the “native” type growing among infested Sea
Island show no signs of the presence of the mites. Thrips (Huthrips
'sp.), flea-beetle (Chaetocnema amazona) and a red spider (Tetranychus
telarius) are pests of sweet potatoes, and are generally most troublesome
in dry weather. Slips for planting should be fumigated in a tight
wooden box by means of carbon bisulphide at the rate of 1 dram to
each cubic foot of space. The cassava hawk-moth, (Hrinnyis
_(Dilophonota) ello) severely attacked cassava fields, the plants being
_ completely defoliated over about 12 acres. Four broods of caterpillars
were observed, occurring at intervals of 30 days, and it was estimated
that there were 8 broods in the season. Spraying with arsenate of
lead and dusting with Paris green are effective. The spray contained
4b. of arsenate and 50 pints of molasses to every 50 gals. of water,
the molasses being added to overcome the water-repelling property of
the cassava leaves. Paris green was used at the rate of 1 lb. to 6 lb.
of lime. The larvae and pupae are eaten by the Barbados blackbirds
(Quiscalus fortirostris), the larvae by wasps (Polistes spp.) and the
moths by the rain bird (Tyrannus rostratus). No Tachinid flies or
other parasites were observed. The larva of the whitewood moth
(Duomitus punctifer) were found tunnelling in whitewood (Tecoma
leucorylon), sour sop (Anona muricata), Barbados cherry (Malphigia
glabra), the woody stems of Ipomoea vines and in ornamental crotons
(Codiaeum spp.). The Coccrpaz recorded during 1912-13 include :—
Aspidiotus (Chrysomphalus) howreyi, Ckil., on agaves, and Pseudaonidia
_tesserata, De Charm., on Cassia fistula. Another scale, closely
resembling the last-named and probably a new variety, was found
on grape vine and Vitis sicyoides. tis capable of doing much damage,
_ occurring under the bark and causing great numbers of small swellings.
Chonaspis unilateralis, Newst., on a palm (Thrinaz), is a new species.
Coccus (Lecanium) hesperidum, L., has been identified as occurring
on Pluchea odorata and on seedlings of Sterculia fulgens. This is of
interest, since the original records of C. hesperrdum, as being abundant
_ and injurious in Barbados and other of the Lesser Antilles probably
referred to Coccus viridis, while C. hesperidum was and is a rare insect.
An experimental plot of papaw was severely attacked by leaf-hoppers
_ (JASSIDAE), apparently the same species which occurs on cotton without
causing injury. Resin compound checked the attack, but reinfestation
soon took place.
_DammerMan (K. W.). De Boorders in Ficus elastica, Roxb. [Borer
Pests of Ficus elastica.|}—Mededeelingen van de Afdeeling voor
Plantenzekten, Batavia, no. 7, 1913, 43 pp. 4 pls. !Received
2nd March 1914.]
The author gives the following list of borer pests of Ficus elastica :—
_ Batocera albofasciata, de Geer, and B. gigas, Drap., are found
throughout Java, and although the damage they do is very serious,
_ they are rarely seen, being nocturnal and hiding themselves in corners
534
and cracks in the stems or in half-open leaves during the daytime.
When at work they make a characteristic noise which has caused the
natives to give them a special name. The adult beetles live about 7
months and feed on the leaves to some extent ; though they do little
damage compared with that done by the larvae. It has been observed
that when a beetle bites a Ficus leaf, little or no latex flows, and it
would seem that the saliva of the beetle has the property of hindering
the flow of latex. The female makes a hole in the bark deep enough
to reach the bast layer, and inserts her ovipositor in such a way that
the egg is laid upon the boundary between the bast and the wood.
The hole made by the ovipositor becomes closed. In 7 or 8 days the
larvae hatch, and escape from the egg in the direction of the bore-
hole made by the parent’s ovipositor. The life-cycle of B. albofasciata
covers from 3 to 4 months on an average, and there are, as a rule,
more than 3 generations in the year; females of the first generation
give rise to about 200 individuals, of which about 100 survive, half of
them being females. The second generation produces 2,500 females,
and it is calculated that in a year, one female may be the progenitor
of 125,000 larvae. The larvae of B. albofasciata cannot readily be
distinguished from those of B. gigas. B. hector, Dej., a pest of the
Coral tree (Hrythrina indica), is also common in Ficus plantations
in Java and Sumatra.
Epepeotes meridianus, Pasc., and E. luscus, F., are common in Java.
The bore-holes of these species are only about half the diameter of
those made by Batocera. The eggs hatch in 6 to 7 days and the young
larvae average only 2°7 mm. in length; when fully grown they are
about double this size. The presence of the larva may be known by
the brownish black frass hanging from the trees. The author says
that these larvae are cannibals, and from an observation on a piece
of Ficus wood 18 inches long by 3 inches wide, in which 74 eggs of
E. meridianus hatched, only 12 adult larvae survived. When the
larva has made a burrow in the wood it turns back to the upper layer
of the bast, and both species of Epepeotes have a habit of making a
circular burrow round the entrance of the bore-hole which frequently
involves the wood, the adult beetle emerging through an opening in
this area. The duration of the larval stage is about 2 months, but
depends on the time of year, being short during the rainy season and
prolonged during the east monsoon. When fully grown the larvae pass
through a resting period.
The author also made numerous observations on Olenecamptus
bilobus, F ., the adults of which eat away the leaves from the undersides,
leaving only the midribs. The females lay their eggs in the smaller
branches and the bore-holes are barely visible. Both bast and wood
are consumed ; the life-cycle is short, not usually exceeding 2 months.
Adults, bred in captivity, lived about 3 months. The larvae of another
borer, Neopharsalia vagans, Han., were generally found in dead wood,
but also occur in fresh Ficus wood. They are somewhat larger than
those of Olenecamptus. The weevil, Aclees birmanus, Faust, lives
between the unopened leaves and eats out the red sheath of the
buds, but also attacks older leaves and damages them in the same
way as Epepeotes. The female bores a hole in the bast with her
long proboscis and lays one egg at the end of it, generally selecting a
wound or the broken end of a branch. The larva bores an irregular
535
gallery between the bast and the wood and when fully grown is not
more than 15 mm. long. The pupal stage lasts about 10 days and
the whole life-cycle about 40.
Other Longicorn Ficus pests include Apriona flavescens, Kaup., a
Set tenown pest of Castilloa, Dihammus fistulator, Germ., Pelargoderus
bipunctatus, Dalm., better known as a cacao pest, Agelasta sp.,
Atmodes wrrorata, F., Gerania bosci, F., and two species of Pothyne.
_ Amongst the CurcULIONIDAE, Mecopus bispinosus, Web., which
mainly attacks dead or dying branches, is also mentioned.
A table of food-plants, other than Ficus elastica, is given: Albizzia
is attacked by B. hector and EL. meridianus O. bilobus appears to con-
fine itself to A. blumer; Artocarpus integrifolia (Jack Fruit) is attacked
by E. meridianus, E. luscus and Aclees birmanus ; Canarium commune is
attacked by Pelargoderus bipunctatus ; Castilloa elastica by B. albo-
fasciata, EL. luscus, Agelasta sp. and Neopharsalia vagans; coffee and
Datura by Dihammus fistulator. Eriodendron anfractuosum (silk cotton
tree) by B. hector; Erythrina (dadap) by B. albofasciata and B. hector ;
Ficus hispida by B. albofasciata, E. meridianus, E. luscus, O. bilobus
and A. birmanus; Ficus variegata by E. meridianus ; Mangifera indica
(mango tree) by H. meridianus, HE. luscus and O. bilobus; Myristica
fragrans (nutmeg) by B. hector; Prper mgrum (black pepper) by
Pelargoderus bipunctatus; Ricinus communis (castor oil plant) by
D. fistulator; Spondias mangifera (hog plum) by B. hector; and
Theobroma cacao by E. meridianus, EH. luscus, Dihammus fistulator,
Pelargoderus bipunctatus and possibly by O. Silobus.
Ficus borers have few enemies, as they are well protected in their
burrows. Woodpeckers attack the larvae and crows the adults.
From two larvae of EF. meridianus the author bred specimens
of a predaceous Colydiid beetle, apparently Dastarcus confinis,
Pasc.
Indirect methods are probably of importance in control measures,
including careful cultivation and the keeping clean of plantations. The
larvae may be cut out or killed with a steel wire, the best time for this
being three weeks after tapping and again six weeks later ; if delayed
longer a large number of larvae will have pupated.
Experiments were made with trap logs consisting of bundles of
Albizaa stvpulata, Ficus hispida, Artocarpus integrifolia, and Ficus
elastuca. FF. hispida yielded 96 E. luscus, 58 EF. meridianus, 286 other
borers and 2 A. birmanus; F. elastica, 19 E. luscus, 11 E. meridianus,
116 other borers ; Artocarpus, 21 E. luscus, 16 EL. meridianus, 96 other
borers and 9 A. birmanus ; and Albizzia only 6 borers classed as “ other.”
It is thus evident that F'. hispida is the best trap wood. The author
thinks that the logs used were not thick enough to tempt Batocera
to lay its eggs. It is important that the trap logs should be set up on
end and should not stand longer than 6 weeks, or, if the plantation be
seriously attacked by Aclees birmanus or Mecopus bispinosus, destroyed
at the end of a month ; the trap logs need only be set up during the
rainy season. Nearly all the larvae were killed when the logs were
submerged for 48 hours.
_ Catching the beetles by hand was found to be so successful that the
price paid to the natives had to be considerably reduced ; this should,
however, only be undertaken in the rainy season ; experiments made
with light traps proved useless.
536
Insecticides are practically useless either against the beetles or the
larvae, and as the Ficus trees are of considerable size, efficient spraying
of the leaves and young shoots, to prevent the attack of the beetles,
is by no means easy. Spraying a log of Ficus wood with 1 per cent.
Paris green did not prevent the beetles from ovipositing on it ; twelve
larvae being subsequently found in it. Tarring the tapping-cuts is
apparently of no avail, as the beetles were constantly found on the
tarred spots, but carbolineum produced a better result, possibly owing
to its strong odour, and from experiments, treatment of the tapping
cuts with 50 per cent. carbolineum will probably suffice to kill both
eges and larvae, the best time to apply the remedy being 3 weeks
after tapping. The injection of carbon bisulphide is not practicable
as it involves the enlargement of the outer opening in each case.
Cootry (R. A.). Eleventh Annual Report of the State Entomologist of
Montana.—Mta. Agric. Expt. Sta., Bozeman, Bull. 98, Feb. 1914,
pp. 123-136. [Received 17th Aug. 1914. ]
Eriophyes pyri, Pgst., the leaf-blister mite, was the most injurious
insect pest of apples and pears in the Bitter Root Valley in 1913,
except in orchards in which the strong lime-sulphur spray had been
used just before the buds opened. Rhizoglyphus hyacintha, Boisd.,
the bulb mite, was found in a shipment of imported bulbs, and
Eriophyes padi, Nal., the plum gall mite, was very abundant in the
eastern half of the State. It distorts the leaves of both cultivated
and wild plum, and in many instances reduces the fruit-crop. Some
injury to sweet peas and clover was caused by the clover mite (Bryobia
pratensis, Garman), but it attracted most attention as a household
pest. Tvroctes dwinatoria, F., the book-louse, attacked wheat. The
most injurious grasshopper was Melanoplus bwittatus, Scud. ; autumn
ploughing to destroy the eggs and the use of hopperdozers against the
young stages were the most effective control measures. Haplothrips
statices, Holiday, damaged the seed-crop in the heads of red-clover ;
the chinch-bug (Blissus leucoptera, Say) was less abundant than
formerly ; a swarm of Lygaeus lateralis, Dall., occurred in June, but
disappeared in a day or two without injuring the vegetation. The
false chinch-bug (Nysius angustatus, Uhl.), did considerable damage
to garden crops, but Anthocorismelanocerus, Reut., and Leucopis griseola,
Fall., were useful, being predaceous on plant-lice. The green apple-
aphis (Aphis pom, De G.), was unusually abundant, and in some
instances even the fruit was attacked. So many enquiries were
received concerning Aphis brassicae, L., that a circular was pre-
pared. [See this Review, Ser. A, 1, pp. 4-5.] Pemphigus betae,
Doane, the sugar-beet root-louse, caused more injury than for several
years, and in some fields it was estimated that the weight of the crop
was reduced by one-third. Toxoptera graminum, Rond., was found
in several grain fields, but did little damage. The oyster-shell scale
(Lepidosaphes ulmi, L.), is the most injurious scale-insect in Montana,
and during the year attempts were made to ascertain whether two
dilute sprays for apple-scab would also control the scale;
it was found to be much reduced by such treatment, but the strong
537
dormant spray is needed to control it completely. Approximately
eight tons of Paris green were used against a bad outbreak of the
sugar-beet webworm (Phlyctaenodes sticticalis, L.), and in nearly every
instance the beets were saved. The attack occurred in June, and, as
in 1912, the usual August brood of larvae did not appear. Lucerne was
also attacked in several parts of the State by this pest. Climbing cut-
worms (NocturpAe£) did considerable damage to young fruit trees, but
in one large orchard where they had been abundant in 1912 they were
completely controlled by banding the trees with tanglefoot. Cacoecia
(Archips) rosaceana, Harris, the oblique-banded leaf-roller, badly
damaged the foliage in an apple orchard ; it has also been found feeding
on cottonwood. The codling moth (Cydia pomonella, L.), is becoming
year by year more abundant in Montana than ever, and the Medi-
terranean flour moth (Ephestia kiihniella, Zell.), infested flour from
Bozeman. Alsophila pometaria, Harris, damaged orchards; the trees
should be banded with tanglefoot, applied early in spring, as the females
emerge from the ground on the very first warm days. Hylemyia
antiqua, Mg. (Pegomyia ceparum, Mg.), the onion maggot, completely
destroyed seedling onions in some gardens, but plants grown from sets
suffered less. False wireworms (Hleodes sp.) were reported for the first
time as injurious to grain, one grower losing nearly one-third of his
crop of autumn wheat. The currant fruit weevil (Pseudanthonomus
validus, Dietz) is probably responsible for nearly one-half the injury
formerly believed to have been caused by the currant-fly, Epochra
canadensis, Lw. Seventy-five sacks of a shipment of flour were found to
be infested with Calandra granaria, L., and a number of Cartodere
ruficollis, Marsh., were found ina sample of wheat. Garden crops and
potatoes were attacked by the spotted blister-beetle (EH picauta maculata,
Say), and Nuttall’s blister-beetle (Cantharis nuttalli, Say) attacked
lucerne. Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Say, the Colorado potato-beetle, was
unusually destructive, and the poplar leaf-folder (Pontania bozemani,
Cooley) attacked shade-trees. A careful search was made in the most
likely part of the State for the lucerne weevil [see this Review, Ser. A, ii,
p. 294], but although trains from infested territory daily pass through
this locality no occurrence in Montana is yet reported.
State aid in combating vine pests in Luxemburg.—Luxemburger Weinzig.,
Grevenmacher, 11, no. 7, 1st April 1914, pp. 98-100.
By paying a surcharge of from 2 to 5 per cent., according to their
tax-assessment, non-members of the Vinegrowers’ Union are permitted
to purchase insecticides at the same prices as members. The whole
requirements for the year 1914 for combating the various pests may
be ordered at once, but the following maximum quantities (approxi-
mate) per quarter acre may not be exceeded :—For Peronospora:
copper sulphate, 264 lb.; for Odum: sulphur, 20 lb.; for the
first and second generations of Clysia ambiguella, Hb., each: nicotin,
5 lb., copper sulphate, 3} lb., soap, 14 Ib. Im certain cases, based
on tax-assessment, insecticides may be obtained free of charge, or at a
reduction.
538
P.F. Zur chemischen Bekampfung des Heu- und Sauerwurms wahrend
1914, [Chemical control of both generations of Clysia ambiguella,
Hb., during 1914.]—Luxemburger Weinztg., Grevenmacher, ii,
no. 7, Ist April 1914, pp. 101-103,
The encouraging results with nicotin spray in previous years have led
to this method being largely adopted for 1914. With a view to improv-
ing the technique, experiments are being made on a total area of 34
acres, distributed in 10 localities. Seven insecticides are being tested,
including a 10 per cent. tobacco extract for which three formulae are
given. Dr. Muth’s emulsion (nicotin, bisulphide of carbon, petroleum-
soap) of which 1 part in 20 of water is employed against the first
generation of Clysia, and 1 part in 40 of water against the second
generation; and the weather-resisting Schachenmiihl nicotin, which
costs about ls. 7d. per lb. at the manufactory. One lb. of the latter
is used with 10 gals. of 1 per cent. Bordeaux mixture, and no grubs
were seen in the experimental plots where this insecticide was
previously used.
RovussEAvux (E.). Le Contréle des Anticryptogamiques et des Insecti-
eides. [The control of Fungicides and Insecticides. |—J1. d Agric.
Prat., Paris, 1914, 1, no. 14, 2nd April 1914, pp, 431-433.
An account is given of the laws enacted in France to prevent fraud
and misrepresentation in dealings with chemicals used as fungicides
and insecticides. All dealers in these substances must declare the
amount of copper per cent. in mixtures containing copper compounds,
and the price is based on this figure. Samples are taken in the presence
of witnesses; of four samples taken for analysis one is sent to the
buyer, one kept in the analytical laboratory, and two at the manu-
facturer’s to serve, if necessary, for further analyses. Other enact-
ments deal with the precautions necessary to obtain samples, as far as
possible identical, in a mixture which may not be homogeneous
throughout.
ZSCHOKKE (K.). Bericht tiber das Auftreten und die Bekampfung von
Rebenschadlingen in der Pfalz im Jahre 1913. [Report on the
occurrence and control of vine pests in the Palatinate m 1913.}—
Weinbau der Rheinpfalz, Neustadt a.d. Haardt, ii, no. 8, 15th April
1914, pp. 86-90.
After having been reduced in numbers in the hot summer of 1911,
both Clysia ambiguella and Polychrosis botrana were so favoured by
the conditions obtaining in 1912 that a large number of winter-pupae
developed in the spring of 1913. After the first flight m May a
numerous first generation of caterpillars appeared, but a good yield
of grapes would still have been possible had the second generation not
been very abundant and favoured by the slow growth of the grapes.
Control by natural enemies again fell short of expectations. Scratch-
brushing and earthing up the stocks gave good results where the vine-
yards were isolated ; sticky racquets were only employed in one
instance and proved a success ; bait-traps were practically abandoned
as being ineffective and costly, and sprays, especially of tobacco-
extract, were chiefly resorted to. This was made up of | lb. soft soap
539
and 14 Ib. tobacco-extract (10 per cent. nicotin) in 10 gals. water, and
when used even against the second generation, does not impart a bad
flavour to the wine. The best results were obtained where both
generations were sprayed, but if only one application is made, it should
be against the second generation. The best time for this was during
10 days in the second fortnight of July. In the more severely infested
districts the yield from treated vineyards was from 14 to 5 times as
much as that from untreated ones. A disadvantage of nicotin spray
is its retarding effect on the ripening of the grapes, but it is thought
that by reducing the amount of soap this defect may be remedied.
It also occupies much time at a busy season, if it is to be effective ;
preference should be given to winter treatment. Byctiscus betulae
(Rhynchites betuleti), Otiorrhynchus sp. and Sparganothis pillervana did
ttle damage. Cacoecia costana did not occur. Only three cases of
scale infestation were noticed, Pulvinaria vitis being probably con-
cerned. Tetranychus sp. was injurious in some cases, and nicotin-
soap was used against it.
LesneE (P.). Les Insectes Nuisibles aux Arbres Fruitiers. [Insects
harmful to fruit trees.|—Jl. d@ Agric. Prat., Paris, i, no. 7,
23rd April 1914, pp. 534-535.
A short account is given of the damage done to pears by the Hemip-
teron Tingis pyri, F., which occurs from May to October, and causes the
leaves to turn yellow and fall off before their time. Fumigation with
tobacco fumes in an enveloping tent is the best remedy. Psylla
pyricola on pears is best combated by means of sprays of soap solution
and petroleum emulsions or solutions of nicotin; the following
formula for a nicotin spray being given :—Water 100 parts by weight,
sodium carbonate (Solvay) 100 parts, white soap 200 parts, nicotin
(10 per cent.), 1°33 parts. Against Aphis cerasi, persicae, mali and
prunt on the cherry, peach, apple and plum, respectively, an emulsion
of petroleum in soapy water is the best.
CHavuvienE (A.). L’Hivernage de ’Eudémis. [The Hibernation of
Polychrosis botrana.|—Rev. Vitic., Paris, xii, no. 1063, 30th April
1914, pp. 476-479.
_ The author says that although the life-history of Polychrosis has been
considerably studied, little is known as to its hibernation, which he
investigated in 1911. He found a hole in the cut end of the old wood
which had been pruned the previous year, corresponding with the
medullary canal of the twig, and on making a vertical section dis-
covered pupae of P. botrana at the bottom of the canal just above the
next knot. Individuals of the early generation, which finish their
life-cycle before the grapes are gathered, hide themselves in cracks
and fissures in the vine stocks or the supporting stakes or in the soil.
The later ones, which are still active larvae when the grapes are
gathered, often pass in considerable numbers into the vats in the press-
houses, where they cause anxiety as to their effect upon the quality
of the wine; others take refuge like their predecessors, while some
seek the cut ends of the twigs as described. In doing this the larva
throws out behind it the frass which is produced and stops as soon as
it reaches a knot ; the burrow is then somewhat enlarged, and a small
540
quantity of frass is left behind to close the canal. By February the
author found that a large proportion of these bore-holes were empty.
Though observers in neighbouring districts and in the south had
observed the presence of C. ambiguella larvae in identical situations,
he himself failed to do so in his part of Touraine. In many cases
the remains of larval skins of P. botrana are to be found in these bored
twigs, and the author is inclined to think that they do not always
remain in the same twig until the period of pupation, though it is
possible that these remains may be those of the preceding summer
generation. In any case, whether as larvae or pupae, he regards them
as supplying the May flight of moths. He points out that it is obvious
that they are thus amply protected against the cold of winter, and he
advises vineyard owners to take the greatest care during the process
of pruning to cut out all useless wood of the previous year, and to
destroy all such prunings at once on the spot, and he thinks that in
this way a very large proportion of the hibernating larvae might be
destroyed.
Lyne (R. N.). Rhinoceros Beetle Traps.—Trop. Agric., Peradenwya,
xlu, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 353-354.
The rhinoceros beetle, which breeds in decaying vegetable refuse,
can be destroyed in inexpensive and easily made traps, constructed
as follows :—Round the sides of a hole 4 feet square and 4 inches deep
a wall of bricks or stones about 14 inches high is built ; the enclosure
is then filled with small pieces of dead or decaying coconut stems,
leaves and other vegetable rubbish, and covered with a thin layer of
soil; the whole should be watered frequently and covered with palm
leaves to keep the trap damp; the traps may be placed about 100
yards apart and can be used as refuse pits.
At the Peradeniya Experiment Station two such traps were made
in December 1913, and when examined in April 1914, each contained
about 100 larvae. At Maha-iluppalama, 150 larvae were captured in
one trap. Where labour is cheap the larvae are best killed by hand,
but they may also be destroyed by carbon bisulphide poured into
holes made with a crowbar [see this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 30]. Dr.
Friedrichs, who is at present studying this pest in Ceylon, has found
that by means of these traps the natural enemies may be collected
and determined [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 26-28]. Even m a
clean plantation the author thinks that traps may always be usefully |
employed, but should not be left longer than two months.
RUTHERFORD (A.). The Mango Weevil.— Trop. Agric., Peradensya,
xlu, no. 5, May, 1914, pp. 410-411. |
The mango weevil (Cryptorrhynchus mangiferae, F.) is widely
distributed in India, Ceylon, the Philippines, Madagascar, South
Africa, Hawaii and elsewhere. A correspondent of the author’s
states that in Labuan only about 10 per cent. of the mangoes are
edible, owing to the attacks of what is probably this species, and that
the insect seems to be spreading there. From one stone two adult
weevils were obtained, the pulp of the fruit being partially rotten,
and in the side of the stone there was a hole with blackened edges, the
contents of the seed being reduced to a black mass of frass. As Green
541
has obtained a pupa from the stone, it is evident that in Ceylon the
insect passes through all its stages—egg, larva and pupa—in the seed,
though according to Lefroy, this insect in Florida pupates in the soil.
As the weevils remain, even as adults, for a time in the seed, the former
condition affords a better opportunity for their collection and des-
truction, but also increases the danger of the pest being distributed.
Fumigation does not appear to be a certain method of killing the
larvae in the seed, and therefore all fallen or infested fruit should be
destroyed. The author also suggests that spraying at intervals with
arsenate of lead (2 lb. to 50 gallons of water) would poison the weevils,
which are not known to have any other food-plant.
RUTHERFORD (A.). The Bean Fly (Agromyza phaseoli, Coq.)—Trop.
Agric., Peradeniya, xhi, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 411-413.
In Ceylon, when Agromyza phaseoli, Coq., is present, the bean crop
is often a complete failure. A recent correspondent informed the
author that out of over 600 seeds planted only 20 plants were
obtained. The bean in question is the cherry bean (Vigna sinensis),
known locally as “ Me-karal” or “ Wanduru-me.” Peas are also said
to be attacked. In Australia this fly attacks French, Lima, and
Madagascar beans, cowpeas and Phaseolus sp. The author has reared
A. phaseoli from green gram and black gram, and although growing
in neighbouring plots the former was the worse attacked. Several
Chalcids have been bred from infested material by the author.
Referring to an article by Jarvis [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 18] the
author says that the rooting up and burning of plants has the dis-
advantage of destroying any parasites that may be present. A cage
provided with a covering of fine muslin would permit the parasites
to escape, while retaining the flies.
Morritt (A.W.) Grasshoppers.—Arizona Agric. Expt. Sta., Tucson,
Timely Hints for Farmers, no. 104, 1st May 1914, 1 fig., n. p.
Nearly all Arizona crops are subject to grasshopper attack, but
lucerne probably suffers the greatest total loss. In the control of grass-
hoppers, all stages—egg, nymph andadult—should be given attention.
For the wholesale destruction of these pests in lucerne fields the
hopperdozer is recommended. ‘This consists of a shallow elongated
pan with a high back-shield arranged for dragging across the fields
for the collection of the hoppers. The pan is of galvanized sheet iron
and divided into compartments, each of which when in use contains
water with coal oilon the surface. The shields and sides are preferably
7 made of a smooth cloth, such as oil cloth, and the runners may be waggon
. tyre, iron or wood, or the hopperdozer may be provided with small
| wheels. A figure, with measurements, is given of a large example
to be drawn by two horses. Small hopperdozers, which can easily be
j
drawn by two men or boys, can be constructed more cheaply, but the
author points out that the comparatively low back is a weak feature,
since too many of the hoppers would fly or hop entirely over it;
: £2 8s. 6d. is the approximate cost of the large hopperdozer which is
, figured, the back of which is 4 feet in height. This apparatus is best
used before the insects have reached the winged stage, and immediately
after the hay crop is cut and stacked. When the lucerne is six inches
q hs
542
high or more the runner may be made higher, or, preferably, wheels
may be used to raise the pans higher from the ground. The author
mentions ‘Poisoned Bran Mash” and “ Griddle Mixture ” [see this
Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 518-519], and says that, according to experiments
conducted in Kansas, the effectiveness of the former may be increased
25 per cent. by the ‘addition of three lemons, chopped fine. Where
enough poultry and turkeys are available they are more successful
in controlling these pests than poisoned baits.
The military grasshopper is troublesome in the Sulphur Spring
Valley, especially as a pest of beans. This insect breeds in the desert
surrounding cultivated fields, and is usually first found feeding on
mesquit leaves. Autumn and winter destruction of the eggs, except in
rare cases, is impracticable, and poultry will not attack the grasshoppers:
These insects crawl up tree-trunks, fence-posts and poles at night, and
by driving stakes at intervals of a few feet along rows of crops the
insects may be destroyed by hand early in the morning before they
start to feed. The digging of trenches and post-holes [see reference
above] is also suggested.
BERNES (J. ). La Culture de YOignon dans PAgenais. [The culture of
onions in Agenais (Lot-et-Garonne).}|—La Vie Agric. Rur., Parts,
u, no. 20, 18th May 1914, pp. 559-564,
In the neighbourhood of Agen onions are cultivated on a very large
scale, and the total area under this crop in the district is about 550
acres, yielding annually about 5,000 tons. After describing the
methods of cultivation, the author says that the crops are subject to
a variety of pests, including mole-crickets and the larvae of Melolontha,
which often do very serious damage to the seedlings, but which are
controlled by an injection of bisulphide of carbon into the soil, at the
rate of ten grammes to each hole at intervals of twenty inches. The
cleaning of the soil at the end of June in hot, dry weather destroys a
certain number of eggs of mole-crickets and cockchafers, but the best
remedy against the former is the use of small trap-heaps of manure,
kept moistened with water. Hylemyia antiqua (Anthomyia ceparum)
is the cause of a large amount of damage to the bulbs, which rot in
consequence of the attacks of the larvae. “ Tznea aillela” [? Acrolima
assectella, Z., or Polychrosis bicinctana, Dp.] lays its eggs upon the
leaves and the larvae destroy the parenchyma.
The author recommends pulling up and burning all attacked bulbs,
and burning all sweepings and rakings, which should not be thrown on
the manure heaps; the rotation of crops, neither onions nor any
hhaceous plant being grown on infected soil for at least three years ;
spraying with Bordeaux mixture in the event of the leaves being
attacked.
Tucker (E. §.). Report on Entomology—26th Ann. Rept. Agric. Expt.
Sta., Lousiana State Univ., 1913, Baton Rouge, 1914, pp. 26-29.
[Received 20th July 1914.]
A grave menace in the form of the cottony cushion scale (Tcerya
purchast) was discovered near New Orleans; orange-growers were
instructed how to combat the pest and it was successfully controlled.
Owing to the dangerous nature of the scale, its spread, if permitted
to extend beyond the bounds of control in Louisiana, would inflict
543
a serious blow upon the agricultural interests of the State. The
discovery that it thrives on pecan, mulberry and a number of previously
unrecorded host plants makes it especially dangerous; should it
gain a hold on cypress and pine, on which it is said to live, the timber
regions of the State would be endangered. 7 Re
The southern corn root worm (Dvabrotica 12-punctata) has been
studied, on account of its prevalence in various sections of the State
during the spring of 1913. The discovery of larval borings in potato
tubers revealed a new habit of the pest.
Tartar (H. V.). Chemical Investigations on Lime-Sulphur Spray.—
Oregon Agric. Bxpt. Sta., Corvallis, Research Bull. 3, March 1914,
28 pp.
Lime-sulphur is, perhaps, one of the most extensively used insecti-
cides, and there is a very large amount of literature dealing with the
methods of preparation: The number of formulae and processes of
preparation is also very great, and when carefully considered the
results of its use do not show that uniformity which might be expected.
It may appear to be a simple matter to boil together, for a given time,
given weights of lime and sulphur in a given quantity of water, but
as a matter of fact the resulting products may vary very considerably
in chemical composition owing to differences in the quality of the lime,
the physical condition of the sulphur, the exact time of boiling, and
other variable conditions. Since what is required for an efficient spray
is a compound of more or less definite chemical constitution, the
rough and ready methods generally adopted do not result in a uniform
product.
R. W. Thatcher (Bull. 76, Agric. Expt. Sta., Pullman, Wash., 1906)
worked out the composition of a number of lime-sulphur solutions,
either commercial or prepared by formula, and he arrived at these
conclusions :—
_ The lime-sulphur wash contains two soluble compounds, namely
calcium pentasulphide and calcium thiosulphate. The relative
amounts of these present in the sprays prepared by any of the common
formulae are practically the same, regardless of the proportions of
ingredients used in the boiling, except in cases where blue vitriol is
added to the mixture. The amount and proportions of these two
compounds is not influenced by the presence or absence of salt in the
mixture. The addition of copper sulphate to the mixture simply
resulted in the removal of an equivalent amount of the pentasulphide
sulphur, forming an insoluble copper sulphide, which was probably
of no value whatever as an insecticide. He was also of the opinion
that when the lime-sulphur was sprayed on to the trees the calcium
pentasulphide decomposed very rapidly under the influence of the
atmosphere and liberated large quantities of very finely divided
sulphur, which in some manner, not definitely determined, acts as a
powerful insecticide towards scale- insects; that later the calcium
thiosulphate also decomposes, slowly liberating more free sulphur
and forming calcium sulphite, which probably also possesses insecti-
cidal properties. Thus the measure of the immediate effectiveness of
the spray is the amount of sulphur as pentasulphide which it contains,
whilst the calcium thiosulphate is responsible for the well-known,
long-continued insecticidal effect.
544
Incidentally he was oi opinion that the so-called Piper 1:1: 4
formula, that is to say, the proportion of 1 lb. of lime and 1 |b. of
sulphur to 4 gals. water, costs from one-half to two-thirds less per gallon
than do the washes prepared by other formulae in common use, and
that the cost of the efficient sulphur in solution is also less in about
the same proportion. The Piper formula contains lime in excess of
the amount required to combine with the sulphur used, but this lime
is present in the wash as “ whitewash,” and serves to render the spray
visible on trees and so aid in thoroughness of application.
The author points out that it is by no means an easy matter to
determine with anything like accuracy the chemical constitution of
a lime-sulphur spray, and as this has been accomplished by himself
and his colleague at the cost of a large amount of labour, he deals with
it in detail and discusses at considerable length the very important
question of the nature of the calcium polysulphide produced, and also
the effects of the time of boiling upon the amount produced, as well
as on its composition. He further discusses the effect of the carbon
dioxide of the atmosphere in decomposing the diluted solution when
sprayed upon the tree, and found that when pure CO, was passed
through the solution a large quantity of sulphuretted hydrogen (H,S),
apparently as much as if some strong acid was used, was developed.
Further experiments were made by passing air through the diluted
lime-sulphur, and although the quantity of sulphur precipitated and
the quantity of H,S given off was relatively small, there is no doubt
that something of this kind must be reckoned with in the practical
use of the spray.
The author discusses in detail the reaction which takes place between
sulphur and calcium hydroxide in aqueous solution, and quotes the
experiments of other workers who have investigated this matter.
He then deals with the difficulties of determining separately the
various products formed, namely, calcium pentasulphide, tetra-
sulphide, thiosulphate, and sulphite. All these compounds are readily
soluble in water, with the exception of the sulphite, which is relatively
insoluble. The average of seven lots of solution prepared gave the
following results per 100 cc. :—Specific gravity, 1:287; ime compound
as polysulphide, 11:29; as thiosulphate, 1:13; as insoluble sulphite
(estimated), 4°51; sulphur as polysulphide, 30°67; sulphur as thio-
sulphate, 1:29; sulphur as insoluble sulphite, 2°56. In the seven
specimens analysed the ratio of lime (CaO) to sulphur required was
1:2, and the author thinks he is justified in saying that this is the
proportion of lime to sulphur which reacts in the preparation of the
more concentrated commercial lime-sulphur solution. He regrets that
he had no opportunity of examining more diluted solutions prepared
under commercial conditions, but quotes Thatcher and Van Slyke
to the effect that the ratio of lime to sulphur would, in this case, be
somewhat greater than 1: 2, and that in some cases it might perhaps
be as high as 1: 1:25; he says that this theoretical basis will not apply
exactly to the preparation of small amounts of solution, say 150 gallons
or less, where oxidation of the polysulphides occurs to a considerable
extent through contact with air.
The author then proceeds to discuss the valuation of lime-sulphut
as an insecticide. He says that in many cases the total lime contained,
the total sulphur contained, and the specific gravity only are ascer-
545
tained, and that entomologists and horticulturists making field experi-
ments generally use the gravity test only. He points out that the
matter of real importance to the agriculturist is the more or less
correct determination of those constituents of the spray which are
really insecticidal, and that mere gravity is of little or no value for this
purpose. Shafer has shown that with scale-insects the calcium poly-
sulphides present in the solution soften the so-called wax about the
margin of the insect and on drying cause it to stick to the plant;
in experiments made, the insects were stuck down tightly enough to
cause also the death of the young by sealing them under the scale-
cover of the mother. Shafer’s work strongly indicated that perhaps
the principal insecticidal effect upon scale-insects is its great power
of absorbing oxygen, thus causing the treated insects to suffer from
an insufficient supply of this element. Shafer further showed that,
contrary to frequently expressed opinion, sulphur dioxide is not
produced in appreciable amounts from sulphur deposited from the
spray, except at temperatures much higher than those generally
prevailing in orchards, and he does not think that this evolution of
sulphur dioxide can be regarded as having any real importance in
increasing the insecticidal value of the spray.
The author’s own work and that of his colleagues clearly indicate
that the principal insecticidal constituents are the calcium poly-
sulphides. Experiments with San José scale have shown that calcium
thiosulphate has little or no insecticidal properties. Shafer and
Wellington have arrived at similar conclusions. It has long been
known that certain insects are killed to some extent by dry sulphur
alone, and for more than a quarter of a century dusting with dry
sulphur has been used in California against the almond red spider.
Authorities are quoted to show that there is considerable justification
for faith in this application of dry sulphur. It has also been suggested
that hydrogen sulphide, which is poisonous to insects, may be liberated
from lime-sulphur, but experiments carried out in the laboratory
showed that the quantity produced is so exceedingly small that it
-can hardly be of any consequence.
The insecticidal properties of lime-sulphur are thus considered to
_ be due to :—(1) Its power of absorbing oxygen; (2) its ability to
_ soften the newly secreted wax on the margins of scale-insects ; and
(3) the amount of free sulphur formed in its decomposition.
' The combination of oxygen with the moist polysulphides is very
rapid, but combination with the thiosulphates is very slow, too slow
_ In the author’s opinion to make this compound of any consequence
as an insecticide, and experiments made at the Station indicate that
calcium sulphite has practically no insecticidal effect whatever upon
the San José scale. The author suggests that what he thinks might
be expressed as “oxygen number,” that is to say, the number of
grams of oxygen absorbed by 100 grams of lime-sulphur, would be
of great value to agriculturists as a standard of efficiency. He also
suggests that a number, which might be called “ available sulphur
number,” should be used, this term meaning sulphur deposited
expressed as a percentage of the original lme-sulphur solution.
He says that no chemical explanation can be given of the undoubted
softening effect of polysulphides upon the waxy secretion.
A very full bibliography of the subject is given.
(C67) B
546°
Analyses of materials sold as insecticides and fungicides.—New York
Agric. Expt. Sta., Geneva, N.Y., Bull. 384, April 1914, 20 pp.
These tables give the guaranteed percentage of the active principle
and the percentage actually found in the various brands tested from
samples taken in stated localities. As a general rule, the guarantee
was materially exceeded, only in a few cases did the contrary obtain,
and then but to a slight extent. The following figures are those
actually found on analysis :-—In Paris green the percentage of arseni-
ous oxide varied from 56°12 to 57:19; that of copper oxide from
29°06 to 30°84; that of water-soluble arsenious oxide from, 3°09 to
8:39. In lead arsenate the arsenic oxide varied from 11°71 to 18°89
per cent., and (in the case of dry lead arsenate) from 22 to 31 per
cent.; the lead oxide from 30°59 to 44°89 per cent. and from 43°74
to 64:40 per cent.; the water-soluble arsenic from 0°24 to 1:35 per
cent. and from 0:29 to 1:57 per cent. In a Bordeaux-Paris green
mixture the percentage of copper was 4.87 and that of arsenious
oxide 0°22 per cent.; whilst in a mixture of Bordeaux (dry) and
Paris green these figures were 19°22 and 16°48 respectively. In
Bordeaux and lead arsenate mixture the percentage of arsenic oxide
varied from 1:30 to 13:27 per cent.; that of lead oxide from 2°73
to 26°23; that of copper from 1°77 to 5°65 per cent.; and that of
water-soluble arsenic oxide from 0:11 to 0:43 per cent. In hme-
sulphur solution the percentage of sulphur in solution varied from
13 to 26°34 per cent.; the density ranging from 21:6 to 365 degrees
Beaumé. In soluble sulphur compounds the soluble sulphur present
varied from 58 to 58°42 per cent. In mixtures of soluble sulphur and
oils the amount of soluble sulphur varied from 4:95 to 31°81 per cent.
In nicotin preparations the percentages of nicotin varied from 0°89
to 44°94 per cent. A table of soap emulsions is given, and in one of
hellebore the percentages of ash range from 9°63 to 21°45 per cent.
In a table of miscellaneous materials and mixtures the principal
features of these compounds are mentioned.
SmitH (G. R.). Distintos métodos para la destruccién de los insectos.
[Various methods of insect destruction.|—Bol. Minist. Agric., °
Buenos Avres, xvii, nos. 3 & 4, March & April 1914,
pp. 342-363, 8 figs., 2 tables.
This paper gives a popular and general account of the several
methods of insect control now practised. The principal insecticides
are described, and various common pests, their injury and control, are
tabulated. :
Luster (G.). Die Nahrung des Ohrwurmes (Forficula auricularia, L.)
nach dem Inhalt seines Kropfes. [The food of the earwig as shown
by the contents of its crop.}—Centralblt. Bakt. Parasit. & Infek-
tuonskrankheiten, Jena, xl, nos. 19-21, 4th April 1914, pp. 482-514.
As the earwig is a night-feeder it is difficult to ascertain its food-
material by observations in the open, whilst the numerous laboratory
experiments on the subject have always been subjectively influenced.
by the insect’s choice being limited to the material provided. The
results obtained by over 30 workers are summarised by the author,
who points out that the uncertainty has increased with the number
of tests. To determine the food of the earwig it is necessary to
547
examine the contents of its crop. Seven batches, comprising 162
earwigs, were thus investigated, and the conclusion arrived at is that
these insects are universal feeders. Normally, they feed on dead
portions of plants, and on fungi such as Capnodium, etc., but when a
favourable opportunity occurs, living leaves and flowers are attacked.
‘The crops of 19 out of 20 individuals placed on dahlias were filled
with parts of their leaves and flowers, so that it is quite correct to
consider the insects as pests of these plants. Only dead animal
matter appears to be consumed, so that earwigs are non-beneficial.*
The proportion of such animal food is small and only seems to be
present where other food is not to be had. In general, the earwig
may be held to be a harmless insect which only needs combating in
special cases. So far, its behaviour as regards ripe fruit and in the
vineyard and field has not yet been investigated by the author.
Micuet (E.). Note sur certains Vers-a-soie sauvages du Congo Belge.
[Note on certain indigenous silkworms of the Belgian Congo. |—
LT’ Agron. Trop., Uccle, vi, no. 4, April 1914, pp. 33-45, 6 pls.
The silk-producing caterpillars of the genus Anaphe, which are
abundant in many parts of West Africa, Uganda and Natal, assemble
together in considerable numbers just before pupation and spin a
common nest within which each pupates in its own cocoon. These
silk nests are to be found all over the Congo, but the natives seem to be
entirely unaware of their utility. A company has now been formed,
with the sanction and under the direction of the Government of the
Belgian Congo, for the purpose of collecting the nests in certain
districts and for the methodical cultivation of these indigenous silk-
worms. The silk produced by the genus Anaphe is specially adapted
to the silk-waste industry, for the manufacture of velvets, plushes,
and the fabrics for neckties, umbrellas, sewing-silk, etc., and it is
possible that it might prove useful in the manufacture of fabric for
the envelopes of balloons. For some time past this industry has
extended considerably and although the silk-waste produce of Bombyx
mort is of excellent quality, it appears, according to Prof. Lehmann,
of the Royal School of Spinning and Weaving at Crefeld, that the
silk-waste produce of Anaphe is superior to this in resistance and
elasticity. Itis, however, not so brilliant, but it is considered probable
that a remedy can be found for this defect. Seeing that the moths are
indigenous and that no capital is required for breeding them, at all
_ events at present, as it is a mere question of collecting the nests, the
_ industry would appear to be commercially attractive. Should it be
found necessary or desirable to undertake the artificial rearing of these
_ indigenous silk-worms, it could be done in Africa without any difficulty
and with a comparatively small outlay. 7
| Experience has shown that the industrial value of the silk-waste
_ (“schappe ”) derived from the cocoons or the nests which the perfect
insects have left, is not in any wise diminished ; this, as is well known,
is not the case with the cocoons of Bombyx mori. There is no necessity,
therefore, to kill the pupae of Anaphe as is the case with Bombyx mort.
_ *['There are various records of earwigs eating living insects ; for their
ee destruction of Depressaria pupae, cf. this Review, Ser. A, i,
p. 43.—Ep.]
(C67) B2
“
p
q 3 ——
548
There are several species of Anaphe found in the Congo, of which
A. infracta and A. venata are most widely distributed, and from a
commercial point of view the latter is the most important. The
adults emerge twice a year, in September and in January. The life
of the perfect insect is very short; the males die soon after pairing and
the females soon after oviposition, which lasts five or six days. The
female does not fly far from the place of emergence and is generally
to be found either on the nest or on the bush or tree to which it is
attached. The eggs are generally laid on the lower surface of the
leaves on which the larvae feed, and are arranged in heaps of 200-300,
being covered by the female with a protective layer of hairs from the
end of her abdomen. When the caterpillar has reached the age of
fifteen days each segment of its body bears a row of fine whitish hairs
or spines which are very easily detached and break at the slightest
touch; on being handled, these hairs produce a most intense and
intolerable itching. So far as the author is aware, the larvae moult
six or possibly seven times. They do not move about much during
the day, and avoid bright light, feeding generally at night. They
have been taken on several species of plants, namely, Cynometra
alexandri, Triumfetta macrophylla, Albizeia fastigrata, Macrolobium
dewevrer and Afromorsva elata ; but Brideloa micrantha, which is exceed-
ingly widespread over the whole Congo area, appears to be the food-
plant par excellence. The life of the caterpillar is about six or eight
weeks.
The nests of Anaphe wnfracta are of a rusty red and are composed of
layers as follows: the external envelope resembles a sheet of paper,
varying in thickness from tissue to heavy brown paper ; it is sometimes
very fragile and sometimes fairly tough. The next layer is composed
of several layers of silk (ten to fifteen), and when cut across, these may
be opened out almost like leaves of a book. The third envelope,
also formed of several layers of silk, but closely attached to one
another, has very much the texture of parchment; this envelope is
hard and exceedingly unpleasant to handle, as it contains the urticating
hairs of the caterpillars.
The nests of Anaphe venata are coffee-coloured and may even be
the colour of milk ; they have only one envelope, and cause no irrita-
tion when handled.
Anaphe has several enemies, and perhaps the most important are
the natives themselves, who are very fond of eating the caterpillars
and chrysalids roasted. Three species of birds feed on the cater-
pillars, namely, Chrysococcyx cupreus, Pycnonotus layardi and Motacilla
campestris. These birds do not appear to be in the least affected by
the stinging hairs. Of insect pests, a Chalcid, Telenomus gowdeyt,
parasitises the eggs and is itself parasitised by Plewrotropis telenome.
The chrysalis is attacked by an Ichneumonid, Onevlella (Cryptus)
formosa, which is very common in tropical Africa. The female bores
through the nests and cocoons with its ovipositor and lays its eggs
in the body of the pupa. According to Kiiller the perfect Ichneumons
emerge after the moths. Schultze says that Onevlella lays its eggs upon
the caterpillars.
The principal food-plant of Anaphe, Bridelia micrantha, is a euphor-
biaceous plant which is found in abundance in the Lower Congo and is
cultivated in Uganda by the African Silk Corporation for rearing these
4
a
549
silkworms. The plan adopted is to attach nests containing living cater-
pillars to the plants, to wait until the perfect insects have emerged, and
then to collect the nests. It is very important that the plantations
should be carefully watched to keep away predaceous birds. The author
thinks that there is great scope for the cultivation of Anaphe, and
suggests that the natives should be carefully instructed to collect
the nests in a proper manner, for if they are paid a fair price the
foundations of an important industry might well be laid.
In order to avoid injury to the skin, the nests of A. infracta should
be manipulated under water and workpeople should wear a mask
to protect the mouth and eyes, as the irritation produced by the broken
hairs is very serious. If no water can be obtained, and it is necessary
to treat nests dry, the author recommends that the operators should
wear a veil and smear their hands and arms thickly with soap or some
greasy substance. The exterior layer of the nest furnishes the most
valuable silk, the next quality is supplied by the parchment envelope
and that of the cocoons is of the least value.
The author says that care must be taken in storing the raw silk for
export, as it is seriously attacked by rats, mice, ants, etc. It must
also be kept thoroughly dry, because it has been found that the moisture
will penetrate the whole mass and render it useless for commercial
purposes.
AZEMARD (—). Les Insectes parasites des Arachides au Senegal. [Insect
pests of the ground-nut in Senegal.}—L’ Agron. Colon., Paris, i,
no. 10, 30th April 1914, pp. 106-110.
Ground-nuts, while still growing, are attacked by termites, especially
a week or two before harvest, and by the larvae of an Elaterid beetle,
though really serious damage is confined to very restricted areas.
When stored, various insects attack them ; of these the most important
seem to be the larvae of the Pyralid moth, Plodia interpunctella, and
of the Tenebrionid beetle, Tribolium confusum. Termites pierce the
outer covering or pod and may or may not do further damage; in
some cases the entire nut is eaten away, while in others the nut itself
remains intact or is only slightly damaged. The Elaterid larvae
attack the nut in exactly the same way. Fortunately these pests
are confined to a limited area of Senegal, and the proportion of damaged
nuts is small. Tribolium confusum is common in Senegal and. multi-
plies abundantly in the heaps of stored nuts. In 1913, from February
to July, it caused damage to the extent of 6 to 30 per cent. in various
consignments placed under observation. Fumigating with carbon
bisulphide and with hydrocyanic acid was attempted, but without
much success. The adults of Plodia interpunctella lay their eggs
among the stored nuts, attacking particularly those which have
suffered in the open from termites or Elaterids. Neither 7. confusum
nor P. interpunctella cause really serious damage, but it is desirable
nevertheless to eliminate them where possible. Getting rid at once
of nuts that have been attacked in the open will diminish the breeding
facilities of the insects. The saw-toothed grain beetle, Silvanus
surimamensis, is also to be reckoned as a pest, though as a rule the
damage done by it is small.
550
The author says that thorough screening and winnowing before
baling or storing is a simple and excellent means of getting rid of the
pests, or reducing them to negligible proportions. Such methods
would, it is believed, have better results than the more costly method
of fumigation. The amount of rubbish among the nuts, when received
from the interior, is very considerable.
DEGRULLY (L.). Memento pour le traitement du Mildiou et la prepara-
tion des Bouillies Cupriques. [A note on black-rot treatment
and on the preparation of cupric sprays.|—Progrés Agric. Vitic.,
Montpellier, xxxi, no. 15, 12th April 1914, pp. 449-459, 7 figs.
The author deals very fully with the proper preparation of the sprays,
and lays stress on the necessity for careful dosing, selected material,
and timely, persistent, application. The following is a practical
installation for making and distributing Bordeaux mixture :—A ferro-
concrete tank is fixed to a wall at such a height that a barrel mounted
on cart-wheels may be drawn up below and in front of it. Above it
is a water-tank of a capacity of 800 cubic feet which supplies the water
necessary for the spray solutions. The tank is divided into four
separate divisions, each a cube of 28” side-measurement and provided
with an outlet at bottom-level for the convenient drawing-off of its
contents. A ladder placed against the tank gives access to a wide
ledge which runs along its face and affords ample standing room.
Three of the compartments are used for dissolving copper sulphate,
the chemical being placed in a basket or bag half-way submerged and
kept suspended by a stick laid across the top of the container. The
fourth compartment is used for the ime. The procedure is as follows :—
In each of the three compartments 44 lb. of copper sulphate are dissolved
in 66 gals. of water. The contents of one compartment are then run
into the barrel below. (This barrel has a capacity of 40 cubic feet.)
The compartment is then rinsed out with, say, 22 gals. of water, which
are then run into the barrel. The 66 gals. of milk of ime contained
in the fourth compartment are then run into the barrel and the com-
partment is well rinsed out with a quantity of water sufficient to fill
the barrel up to 220 gals. The actual mixing of the spray solution
is done by the shaking during cartage to the field of operations. The
milk of lime should contain 225 parts (224-9 exactly) of good quality
“fat ” lime to every 1,000 parts of the copper sulphate used.
Morezavu (L.) & Viner (E.). La lutte contre la Cochylis. Insecticides
et insectifuges. Leur emploi dans les moyens et petits vignobles.
[The control of Clysia ambiguella. Insecticides and insectifuges,
and their employment in small and medium-sized vineyards. }—
Rev. Vitic., Parts, xli, no. 1059, 2nd April 1914, p. 369.
Experiments made during the last seven years lead the author
to believe that, in small vineyards where the supply of labour is not
a difficulty, the most accurate and efficient results are obtained by
using internal insecticides. Insecticide sprays are, however, only of
practical use against the first generation of Clysia. Against the
second, dusting with insectifugal powders must be resorted to, and
although this method is less efficient than the former one, it is a useful
complementary. Internal insecticides are essentially preventives and
551
their effect is not always tangible, but experiments will determine
_ their value. In the author’s hands, lead arsenate gave constantly
_ favourable results over a period of seven years, and its efficacy increased
as more knowledge regarding date and mode of application was
acquired and applied. In 1913, the percentage of mortality attained
was 94:2. Regional differences alone cannot account for those reported
cases where the percentage was zero. Nor can it be said that in the
experiments here referred to only sparsely infested plots were treated,
for the trials were made during seven years. While the lack of
abundant skilled labour prevents full use being made of arsenate of
lead on large estates, this objection but rarely applies to small vine-
yards. In the experiments, wine-traps were used as indicators.
They were placed in position on the 28th April 1913, and the first
few captures early in May were disregarded, as some few individuals
always emerge prematurely. About the 16th May catches began to
become abundant and this date was used as a basis, the first application
of spray being made three weeks later on the 6th June. This was
followed by a second application ten days later, on the 16th June.
The mortality on the treated portion of the plot reached 94:2 per cent.
in the case of Chenin blanc vines and 68:0 per cent. in the case of
Gamay vines. This proves that the Gamay, a vine of rapid growth,
requires a different date of treatment from the Chenin blanc. In a
vineyard where many different species of vine are grown the grower
has a longer period at his disposal in which to apply treatment. The
author states that four labourers, experienced in this work, can cover
2% acres in a day, if both sides of each row of stocks be carefully
sprayed. This is for the first application; the second one requires
a little less time. This means that in favourable weather and using
the plant now available, four men can thoroughly spray a vineyard
of 16 acres planted with four different species of vines. For instance
the following species of vines should be sprayed in the order given :—
Pinot Chardonnay, Gamay, Cabernet Sauvignon and, lastly, Chenin
blanc. Even in this case a few days would still remain over in the
interval between the first and second treatments, so that the first
treatment might be postponed a couple of days in case of wet weather.
It should be noted that when rain falls some hours after spraying is
completed, the spray has had time to dry and is not easily washed
away or rendered ineffective. In vineyards that are surrounded by
others it is necessary to practise control against the second generation
of Clysia if the benefit due to the above treatment is to be reaped.
Insecticide sprays are impracticable and recourse must be had to
insectifuge powders. Seven applications are theoretically necessary.
They should be made during the flight of the moths, at intervals of
four days, beginning on the 17th July. The powder is made up of
one-third precipitated sulphur and two-thirds hydraulic lime. In
actual practice only three or four applications are usually possible,
but they will give satisfactory results if made during the period of
maximum intensity of flight. The foregoing mixture has been proved
to be efficacious against Clysia ; it is cheap and 1s also of use against
Ovdium and other pests which appear in July. The combination of
the insecticide sprays and insectifuge dusting reduced the percentage
of injury by 60°8, whereas dusting alone only reduced the percentage
by 26°3. The author believes that the powders act by impeding
JO2
oviposition. Besides counting the larvae in spring and the injured
grapes in summer, the grape yield was checked in the same treated and
untreated plots. The figures work out at an increase of about 2,565 lb.
of grapes per acre in the case of the treated vineyards. This means
an extra four casks of must, at least, for the treated grapes were larger
and finer than the others. Taking the vineyard as a whole, it was
found that treatment about doubled the output. Careful owners
of small vineyards have therefore an efficacious method of control at
their disposal and the owners of large vineyards can also profit by it
in some measure.
DEGRULLY (L.). La lutte contre les insectes. [Combating insect pests. ]
—Progrés Agric. Vitic., Montpellier, xxxi, no. 16, 19th April 1914,
pp. 487-490.
In vineyards, both the vine flea-beetle (Haltwca ampelophaga)
and the leaf-roller of the vine (Sparganothis pilleriana) may be easily
controlled by arsenicals, but Clysoa ambiguella and Polychrosis botrana
remain difficult to combat. The use of arsenicals is limited to spring.
Once the grapes are formed, nicotin alone can be used. Summer
treatment is hampered by the luxuriance of foliage and by the difficulty
of determining the proper moment for action. According to many
workers the latter coincides with the period of flight, but this is some-
what protracted, so that a proportion of insects is bound to escape
even where the efficiency of the insecticide reaches 100 per cent.
Haltica, Clysia and the leaf-roller are controlled by the same formulae,
which are as follows :—
Arsenate of lead. In regions with a damp climate, about 3 oz. of
arsenate of soda should be allowed to every 6 gals. of spray, while
in the South of France 2 oz. will suffice, except in vineyards where
grubs are found at the close of the season or where pupae are abundant
under the bark. In every 22 gals. of water the two formulae contain
respectively 10 oz. and 640z. of anhydrous arsenate of soda with 30 oz.
and 20 oz. of neutral acetate of lead. The arsenate is dissolved in 5$
gals. of water and the acetate in 164 gals., after which it is slowly
added to the arsenate solution. Only a quantity sufficient for the day’s
work should be prepared, freshly-made sprays being lighter and of
more “sticking” power. To make this a wetting spray, Gastine
has suggested the following modified formula: A soap solution is
made by dissolving 20 oz. of dry white soap in 3 gals. of hot water,
this being the dose for 22 gals. of spray. Arsenate of soda and acetate
of lead are made up in separate solutions bulking 6 gals. each. After
the acetate solution has been added to that of arsenate, 35 oz. of
Solvay carbonate of soda (dissolved in a little water) are added, if
the weaker formula given above is being employed. For the strong
formula, 54 oz. of Solvay carbonate of soda are necessary. The
resulting mixture is diluted to about 18 gals., so that when the soap
solution is finally added, 22 gals. of spray-solution result.
Arsenate of lame. This is very efficient, at least against Haltica
and Sparganothis. The burns it is sometimes said to cause are usually
slight in character and without influence on the crop. The following
formula is given: Dissolve 1 lb. of anhydrous arsenate of lead in 10
gals. of water ; dissolve 13 oz. of sifted lime (fresh) in 2 gals. of water ;.
:
:
:
:
553
add the lime solution to that of arsenate and mix; finally dilute to a
total bulk of 20 gals.
Arsenite of lime. This is very popular in America and may be
prepared as follows: 2 lb. of white arsenic and 8 lb. of carbonate of
soda are boiled for 15 minutes in 1} gals. of water. This solution
should be labelled poison. The spray is compounded just before
application by dissolving 2 lb. of slaked lime in 32 gals. of water
and adding { of a pint of the above solution. An alternative formula
is : White arsenic, 1 lb. ; stone-lime, 4 lb. ; water 3} gals. Boil together
for a full 30 minutes. For use this mixture is diluted with 160 gals.
water. It is important that the lime be freshly made.
Arsenate of soda. Some vine-growers employ a simple solution
of arsenate of soda, 33-4 oz. in 22 gals. of water, against Haltica.
The risk of burns is considerable, even with so small a dose of arsenate,
but the partisans of this method attribute little importance to the injury.
Cupric-arsenical sprays. These are easy to prepare, the cupric
solution containing twice the usual amount of copper sulphate and the
arsenical solution twice the arsenic. To obtain a 2 per cent copper
sulphate spray two solutions must be made up: (1) Copper sulphate
4 lb.; lime or carbonate of soda in sufficient quantity to neutralise ;
water, 10 gals. (2) Arsenate of soda, 6 or 9 oz. ; acetate of lead 18 or
27 oz.; water, 10 gals. These two solutions are then mixed and 20
gals. of correctly compounded spray will result. If either verdigris
(cupric acetate) or the one-powder commercial cupric sprays are used
the preparation of the insecticide is further simplified, for it is only
necessary to dilute the above arsenate of soda solution with another
10 gals. of water and then add the verdigris or cupric powder, mixing
thoroughly.
Inseet Notes.— Mthly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal.,
i, no. 4, April 1914, p. 189.
EK. O. Essig reports that Aspidiotus densiflorae, Bremmer, the
tanbark oak scale, and Chionaspis quercus have both been taken on
Quercus chrysolepis, and Ervococcus adenostomae, Khrh., on greasewood
or chemiso (Adenostoma fasciculatum).
G. P. Weldon reports Tetranychus mytilaspidis, Riley, and Bryobia
pratensis, Garm., on apple trees, where they were attacked by the
ladybird beetle, Psyllobora taedata. He also found Euthrips pyri
in an orchard in a locality hitherto free from this pest, and the clover
aphis, Aphis bakeri, Cowen, was taken on quince foliage.
L. Childs reports great numbers of Chionaspis pinifoliae, the pine-
leaf scale, on the yellow pine (Pinus ponderosa). The adults in April
were all dead, but under the shells were found masses of eggs. He
has also taken E'pidiaspis piricola on mountain holly (Heteromeles
arbutifolia). HK. J. Vosler reports Tipula simplex, Doane, as being
abundant in Sacramento.
SmitH (H. 8.) & Voster (E. J.). Calliephialtes in California.—Mthly.
Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal., iti, no. 5, May
1914, pp. 195-211, 15 figs.
_ This paper supplements that by Cushman [see this Rewew, Ser. A. U1,
pp. 137-138], which dealt only with Virginia, and records certain
variations in the habits and development of this parasite of Cydia
554
pomonella in California. It is now generally accepted that the parasite
has been sufficiently tried and has been found to be unsatisfactory.
In California, apples, where grown commercially, are placed in bins
immediately after picking, consequently the codling-moth larvae seek
winter quarters in the packing-house, where they are practically free
from the attacks of parasites. But the most important factor in the
inefficiency of Calliephialtes is the inaccessibility of the codling-moth
larvae, the majority of the cocoons of which are so situated (in cracks
and crevices in trees and the ground) as to be out of reach of the
ovipositor of the ichneumon.
The males, which outnumber the females in the proportion of three
to one, emerge about nine days before them. The newly-emerged
female requires about nine days to develop eggs, which are deposited
singly in any portion of the host cocoon ; apparently less than one
hundred eggs are laid. The life of the male is considerably shorter
than that of the female, which lives for from two to three months.
There are from five to seven broods in California in each year. The
eggs hatch in about 68 hours at a mean temperature of 62° F. The
five larval stages occupy from 17-23 days, and the larva requires from
four to five days to complete the cocoon, which is spun inside that of
the host. The pupal stage lasts from 13 to 24 days, the whole cycle
thus occupying from 40 to 50 days at a temperature of about 61° F.
Smitu (H.S.). The Importation of Black Scale Parasites from South
Africea.—Mthly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal.,
i, no. 5, May 1914, p. 212.
Shipments of twigs of Sparmannia africana, infested with the black
scale (Saissetia oleae), have been received at Sacramento from the
Department of Agriculture, Union of 8. Africa. Hleven species of
undetermined parasites have been reared from this material, two
of them, which are primary, in considerable numbers. One of the
remaining species has been ascertained to be secondary, and some of
the others also fall into this category. Both primary species emerge
from the young scale before the eggs are laid, and they should therefore
become valuable supplements to Scwtellista and Tomocera, which
attack the scale after the eggs are laid. So far as climatic conditions
are concerned, these new parasites seem likely to become established
in California. They evidently play an important réle in the control
of the black scale in South Africa, and every effort will be made to
establish them.
VosLeR (E. J.). Calendar of Insect Pests and Plant Diseases.—Mithly.
Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal., ii, no. 5, May
1914, pp. 214-218.
The author draws attention to several orange thrips, which distort
the leaves or discolour the fruit. The spray recommended by the
US. Bureau of Entomology consists of : Commercial lime-sulphur
33° Beaumé, 24 gals.; black-leaf extract, 2 gals. of 22 per cent. ;
water 200 gals. A pressure as strong as is possible should always be
maintained and it may be necessary to make several applications.
The first is usually applied just after most of the petals have fallen ;
the second, ten to fourteen days later ; and the third, three to four
weeks after the second.
595
Insect Notes.—Mthly. Bull. State Commiss., Hortic., Sacramento, Cal.,
ii, no. 5, May 1914, p. 220.
K. O. Essig reports Thricholepis inornata, Horn, a small weevil,
as damaging the foliage of almond trees, and Amara stwpida, Lec.,
a Carabid beetle, was said to be injuring strawberry vines. Larvae
and adults of a Longicorn beetle, Xylotrechus nauticus, Mann., have
been taken from walnut trees, and Gastroidea caesia, Rog., the small
green dock beetle, has been collected on grape vines. The author
has bred specimens of the lesser shot-hole borer (Xyleborus xylographus,
Say) from a dying prune tree, and pear tree foliage is stated to have
been damaged by a Eumolpid beetle, Glyptoscelis pubescens, ¥., and
by a new weevil of the genus Amnesia.
L. Childs reports that the Capsid bugs, Irbesia brachycerus,
Uhler, and I. sericans, Stal, have been feeding, during April, in large
numbers in grain fields where they often do considerable damage.
They have also been found on Amsinckia intermedia, dock, mallow
and wild mustard. Magdalis gracilis, Lec., has been numerous on
the almond and other deciduous fruit trees this spring. Parasites
were observed to be abundant in the autumn broods of the California
oak moth (Phryganidia californica) last year, which accounts for the
temporary relief from this destructive pest, the larvae of which are
not nearly so numerous as in former years. Pemphigus fraxini-
dipetalae, Essig, was noted causing considerable damage to ash trees
-and also to Aesculus californicus, the leaves being curled and mal-
formed.
DemanptT (E.). Samoanische Kakaokultur. [Cacao culture in Samoa.]
—Bethefte zum Tropenpflanzer, Berlin, xv, no. 2-8, April 1914,
26 figs., pp. 135-307., 24 plans.
In this volume the author, a resident of Apia, has compiled a practical
guide to cacao planting in Samoa. Cacao exports have risen from
1} tons in 1900 to 934 tons in 1913, and up to the latter year only 5,600
acres had been taken up. Each tree costs from 5 to 63 shillings until
it begins to bear, when a revenue of 1 to 2 shillings is yielded in the
first years of bearing. In these islands cacao is comparatively little
attacked by diseases and insects. The latter include a Longicorn
beetle (Monohammus rusticator, F.), a Rutelid beetle (Adoretus vestitus,
Boh.), Calotermes (Neotermes) sarasint, Holmer., and Pseudococcus
curt, Risso. The usual remedies are briefly mentioned in each case.
Purves (J. M.). Nyasaland Forestry Division.—Ann. Rept. Dept. Agric.,
Nyasaland Protectorate, for year ending 31st March, 1914, Zomba,
30th April 1914, pp. 1-44.
Reporting on the Forestry Division for the year the author states
that the ravages of white ants have rendered the cultivation of the
quicker-growing trees such as Eucalyptus largely unprofitable. On
ground infested by white ants good results have been obtained at
Zomba with Eucalyptus by planting the trees 4 by 3 or 4 by 4 feet
apart, instead of the usual distance, viz., 8 by 8 feet apart, so as to
allow for thinning by the termites.
P
:
;
;
5D6
LAFFORGUE (G.). Les bouillies cupriques mouillantes. [Copper sul-
phate wetting sprays.}—La Vie Agric. et Rur., Paris, i, no. 22,
2nd May 1914, pp. 611-614.
Soap, gelatin, casein and saponin are the “ sticking ” agents discussed
in this article. Saponin and similar compounds are found in Quillaia
saponaria, in the pericarp of Sapindus utilis, and in the chestnut.
The advantage of saponin solutions lies in their adaptability to neutral
or slightly acid solutions. They facilitate the emulsification of bodies
insoluble in water, such as oils, etc., but do not interfere with the
solubility of copper salts, so that the resultant sprays keep their
immediate intensity of action. It is, however, difficult to obtain
Sapindus commercially, and the “ sticking ” power is not very great.
The mode of preparation is that given by Gastine [see this Rewew,
A, i, p. 123].
PicarpD (F.). Uninsecte nuisible aux vignes récemment plantées: le
Nysius senecionis. [Nystus senecioms, a pest of newly-planted
vines.}—La Vie Agric. et Rur., Paris, 11, no. 22, 2nd May 1914,
pp- 610-611.
Replanting is always accompanied by an increase of the enemies
of young grafts. One of these is a Hemipteron which sensibly injured
newly-planted vines in Aude, Hérault and Gard in 1912 and 1913,
though nearly unknown previously. Nysius senecoonis, Schill, is a
bug belonging to the family Lycarrmpaxr. It was first observed in
Vaucluse in 1869 by Lichtenstein, and since then has been reported
from Aude, Algeria and Tunisia. In association with L. Semichon,
the author studied it in 1912, when its attack was general and severe
to a degree unknown till then in French vineyards, though equalled
in 1913. The most careful observations were made at Ginestas, near
Narbonne, where some twelve acres, newly planted with riparia-
rupestris vines, were so thickly infested by Nyszus that the plants and
ground appeared black in some places, and the leaves withered rapidly
from their attacks. One-third of the vines were withered and apparently
destroyed. The infestation had begun a few days previously, when
ploughing had been done in order to free the vineyard from a weed
(Diplotaxis erucoides). This undoubtedly caused the trouble by
depriving Nysius of its usual food. Elsewhere, observations during
two years have shown that Nysius infestation always occurred in
newly-planted vineyards where Diplotaxis erucoides grew, and always
began immediately after a summer ploughing. In one case older
plants were attacked, but they were close to young ones. At
Bages, the Dzplotaris around the vines were covered with
thousands of Nysius, but the vines were not attacked. Vine-
yards of two or three-year-old vines should not be ploughed in
July if Nystws has been noticed on Dyplotaxis growing in them,
and in spring this plant should be prevented from growing.
Failing this simple cultural remedy, the following petroleum-soap
emulsion will give good results, if quickly applied, as the damage is
done in a very few days :—Sulphate of copper 2 lb., black soap 2 lb.,
petroleum 16 lb., water 20 gals. The sulphate may be dispensed with,
but owing to the large amount of petroleum, the emulsion must be
made with the greatest care. Another preferable method is to drive
557
the insects off the vines by sluicing with cold water, following this
up by dusting with lime. The insects should be attracted to heaps
of Diplotaxis taken from neighbouring vineyards. Sulphuric acid,
petroleum, boiling water, etc., may then be poured on these heaps.
The insecticides should also be sprayed on the soil around each infested
plant, as Nysius also hides under clods.
Frytaup (J.). Instruction pratique pour la défense contre la Cochylis
et ’Eudémis. [Practical instructions for the control of Clysia and
Polychrosis.|—Bull. Soc. Etude Vulg. Zool. Agric., Bordeaux, xiii,
no. 5, May 1914, pp. 69-74.
Spraying may be carried out in spring against the first generation,
or in summer against the second. Arsenicals should only be used in
spring [see this Review, Ser. A, il, p. 552]. Preventive spraying,
applied during a certain period, is the most efficacious. This time
extends from the date of maximum flight to that on which the cater-
pillars begin to cover the flower in the case of the first generation,
or begin to penetrate into the grapes in the case of the second. The
date of maximum flight provides a sure indicator for starting preven-
tive control, though in spring the spraying must be delayed until
the flowers are open. A sprayer which leaves one hand free to push
aside the leaves is the best. As a preparation for summer spraying
the foliage should be summarily thinned from May onwards. This
thinning will not only reveal the grape-bunches but also reduce
infestation. In spraying against the vine moth special care must be
taken to reach the flowers or the grapes. Bait-traps [see this Remew,
Ser. A, ii, p. 511] are very useful when in general use. They are
actually harmful in small vineyards surrounded by untreated ones.
Shelter-traps, consisting of a rag wrapped round the vine stock, are
useful auxiliaries.
Sur le Blaniule moucheté. [Blaniulus guttulatus.|—Bull. Soc. Etude
Vulg. Zool. Agric., Bordeaux, xii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 83-84.
Often called Lule des fraises (Strawberry Millipede) because of its
preference for ripe strawberries, this small brown Myriapod also
attacks potatoes, rape, turnips, pumpkins, cucumbers, and the bulbs
of onions, garlic, tulips and hyacinths, as well as fallen frmt. Where
_ germination is retarded in a cold, damp spring, seed, especially that of
beetroot and wheat, is destroyed by it. Slices of potato or of fruit
make good traps. The soil may be cleared by injecting carbon bisul-
phide or by watering with potassium sulphocarbonate. Seed may be
protected by dipping in a solution of phenic acid and sulphate of
magnesia, and very early sowing is best avoided in order to obtain
rapid germination.
The Coconut Beetle in British E. Africa.—Ann. Rept. Dept. Agric., Br.
E. Africa, for 1912-13, London, 1914, p. 17.
_ For some months during the year, Mr. Dopwell, Plant Instructor,
has been on itinerary work demonstrating to the natives the destruc-
tion caused to their coconut trees by the Oryctes beetle, and urging
558
them to cut up and burn all dead trees; but although the natives
are well aware of the fact that the dead trees are the main breeding
grounds of the beetle, very few could be induced to adopt the measures
recommended.
The beetle has been established in the coast belt for many years,
but as in Ceylon, it has not spread to anything like the same extent
as in Samoa, and it is probable that both in this Protectorate and Ceylon
it has natural enemies, though so far no parasites have been found.
There is little doubt, however, that the beetle is gradually, if slowly,
Increasing in numbers. In the trunks of 957 dead trees no fewer than
7,650 beetles and 28,710 grubs were found, or an average of eight
beetles and thirty grubs from each tree. It is estimated that 2 per
cent. of the coconut trees (including trunks lying on the ground) are
dead, and in view of the indifference of the natives it will be necessary
to introduce compulsory legislation to deal with the matter.
How ett (F. M.). Report of the Imperial Pathological Entomologist.
—Rept. Agric. Research Inst. & Coll., Pusa, for 1912-13, Calcutta,
1914, pp. 78-83.
The work of the department has been practically confined during
the year to fruit flies of the genus Dacus.
A poison-spray method, which depends for its efficacy on the habit
of the peach fly (D. zonatus) of sucking tentatively at any little drop
of moisture on a leaf, was tried with excellent results. The proportion
of affected peaches in the sprayed plots was approximately 2 per cent.
over the whole period of picking, in place of the usual 45-60 per cent.
The cost of the method is very small compared with the value of the
crop, and should this year’s results be confirmed by another season’s
work, they will have a very considerable commercial importance.
It has been found that these insects are strongly attracted by
certain compounds allied to Eugenol (C,,H,,0,), and this substance
constituted a means of detecting the presence of the fruit flies in a
given locality with a certainty quite unattainable by any ordinary
method of observation.
The author discovered by this means that the north-western limit
of the distribution of the peach fly practically corresponds with the
south-eastern limit of successful peach-growing.
It has been shown by Mr. and Mrs. Howard that it is possible to
grow peaches of the first quality at Pusa, and the author says that, in
his opinion, the reason why peaches are not largely or profitably grown
in the southern and eastern portions of the Gangetic Plain and in
various districts in Southern India is largely or entirely due to the
prevalence of peach fly, 50 per cent. or more of the crop being invariably
maggoty. The successful application of the poison-spray method may
therefore possibly result in the opening up of large areas of profitable
cultivation.
ScHott (E. E.). Entomology on the farm.—Bull. Texas Dept. Agric.
Austin, no. 35, Jan.-Feb. 1914, pp. 66-70.
In a paper read before the third meeting of the State Farmers’
Institute the author says that injurious insects cost Texas something
like 40,000,000 dollars annually, and these pests have enormously
559
increased within the last few years and are now so numerous that
it is absolutely necessary for the farmer to begin to study their habits
and the methods of controlling them.
Amongst reasons for this increase the author cites the following :—
(1) The destruction of the original food-plants and the adaptation of
the pests to cultivated crops ; (2) the destruction of insectivorous birds
and animals ; (3) greatly increased communication, which has facili-
tated the transport of insect pests from place to place, generally without
their parasites, so that there is no natural agency to hold them in
check ; (4) years ago, when farms were very scattered, the migration
of pests from one farm to another was not easy, but now that the
country is more cultivated and farms lie close to one another this
natural barrier has disappeared; (5) it was a practice, when the
author was a boy, to burn all rubbish on the farms every year, but
there was then no proper rotation of crops, and the farmers discovered
that this system deprived the soil of necessary humus and the burning
of rubbish ceased, to the great advantage of many insect pests ; (6)
when farms were smaller the crops were harvested early enough to
enable autumn ploughing, at present the farms are so large that this
cannot be done and consequently the pests can hibernate in peace ;
(7) many fields and useless orchards have been abandoned and left
in a state of utter neglect, and these provide good breeding places
for pests.
The author then goes on to describe very briefly the ordinary
methods for combating such insects and strongly advises the farmers
to acquaint themselves with the habits of those pests which come
under their notice, to report to the Department of Agriculture and
seek advice before the damage becomes too serious. He cites a case
where a farmer saved his entire cotton crop of 80 acres by using turkeys
to eat the grasshoppers. This was effected by keeping the turkeys
under control, they being only driven round the fields at regular
intervals, so that they were hungry and active. A neighbouring
farmer who did not adopt this method lost 25 per cent. of his crop.
The grasshoppers make very good food for turkeys, and he strongly
advises the breeding of turkeys in grasshopper areas, not only as a
source of profit, but as useful aids to the farmer in keeping down
pests.
Morris (H. E.) & Parker (J. R.). Fungicides and Insecticides for
Montana.— Montana Agric. Expt. Sta., Bozeman, Cire. no. 16,
Feb. 1914, 56 pp. [Received 16th June, 1914.]
This bulletin is intended to give the fruit-grower and farmer a more
or less concise account of each compound or mixture generally in use.
The authors devote 17 pages to fungicides, and the remainder to
insecticides ; only the more important of the latter are here noticed.
According to the insecticide laws of the State of Montana, Paris green
must contain arsenic equivalent to not less than 20 per cent. of arsenious
oxide, and must not contain more than 34 per cent. of arsenious oxide
soluble in water. The following rough test for adulteration is given :—
Four tablespoonfuls of strong ammonia are added to one teaspoonful
of Paris green in a glass; if the whole does not dissolve to a clear blue
liquid, adulterants are present; but the adulterants may be so
560
devised that they will be soluble in ammonia. The test will not indicate
the presence of soluble arsenic or of arsenic trioxide, and if unusually
severe burning occurs, or if suspicion of adulterants is aroused by
means of the test just explained, a sample should be submitted to a
competent chemist for analysis. For use dry, the Paris green should
be mixed with 20 times its weight of flour or air-slaked lime, well sifted
and dusted on to the plants, preferably after rain or when they are
wet with dew. As a spray the following are advised :—For potato
beetles (Leptinotarsa 10-lineata), 1 oz. of green in 4 gals. of water ;
for cabbage worms, 1 oz. with 4 0z. of soap in 4 gals. of water; for
sugar-beet webworm (Phlyctaenodes sticticalis), 2 oz. with 4 oz. of soap
in 4 gals. of water; for cutworms, 8 oz. with 20 lb. of wheat bran,
1 quart of cheap molasses, and water enough to render the mixture
wet but not sloppy ; a small quantity of this bait to be placed on the
base of plants to be protected late in the afternoon or in the evening.
In the use of all sprays containing Paris green care must be taken that
the mixture is thoroughly agitated during use, or uniform distribution
will not be obtained. Paris green is not recommended for fruit trees
because of its ability to jure the foliage. It is easy to apply and
acts quickly, but at the same time is easily washed off by rain. The
local price is given at ls. 04d. per lb. wholesale and 1s. 54d. per lb.
retail.
Arsenate of Lead. The State laws require that commercial brands,
in paste form, must not contain more than 50 per cent. of water and
must contain arsenic equivalent to 124 per cent. of arsenic oxide ;
not more than the equivalent of 3 to 4 per cent. of arsenic oxide soluble
in water is permitted. The authors give various catalogue names for
lead arsenate and say that there are practically only two kinds which
are of value. One, ortho or neutral arsenate of lead, having the for-
mula Pb; (As0;)2, and acid arsenate of lead, which has the formula
PeHAs0,. According to law, the first of these preparations should
contain 25 per cent. of arsenic oxide on a dry basis and the latter
33 per cent. Many of the preparations sold commercially are mixtures
of the two, but the authors strongly recommend the acid arsenate
because of the higher arsenic content and the fact that it does not
settle so rapidly when mixed with water. They do not advise even
large growers to make their own arsenate from acetate of lead and
arsenate of soda. They give the following formulae for use :—Against
codling moth (Cydia pomonella), 2 Ib. in 50 gals. of water; against
green fruit worm and tussock moth caterpillars (Hemerocampa), 5 oz.
in 4 gals. of water; and against all chewing insects 4 oz. in 4 gals.
These formulae are for the paste form; with dry or powdered arsenate
of lead use one-half as much. Directions are given for preparing
a stock mixture and the use of soap is said to be of somewhat question-
able advantage, as it apparently increases the solubility of arsenate
of lead and thus increases the injury to the foliage. Paste arsenate, if
stored, should be kept covered with water and precautions taken to
prevent it freezing. The principal advantages of the dry form are
that it will keep indefinitely, can be very easily handled, and costs less
for carriage. With regard to arsenate of lead in combination, mixtures
should be made only just before use, otherwise chemical changes may
occur resulting in foliage injury. The disadvantage of arsenate of lead.
is that it acts slowly and that the carriage of the paste forms is
ee ee
— » pi
561
expensive. The Montana price of the paste is from 6d. to 74d. per lb. in
_ quantity and about 1s. 03d. per lb. in 5 lb. lots. Dry arsenate costs
about ls. 03d. in quantity and 1s. 53d. in 5 lb. lots.
Arsenite of zinc. The manufacturers claim that this product is an
“ortho” arsenite of zinc containing at least 40 per cent. arsenious
oxide, of which less than 1 per cent. is soluble in water. It is thus
almost as high as Paris green in arsenic content and as low as arsenate
of lead in water-soluble arsenic. The manufacturers recommend the
, use of 12 0z. to 50 gals. of water; and this proportion for codling
moth, and 1 lb. in 50 gals. for potato beetles and cabbage worms, has
given good results in Montana. Unfortunately, though a good in-
~secticide, it cannot be used on the foliage of peach or other stone fruits
without injury, neither can it be used in combination with Bordeaux
mixture. The worst foliage injury appears to occur when it is used
late in the summer or in combination with other sprays. The authors
state that they cannot: unreservedly recommend this insecticide as a
spray for the apple orchard. One application early in the season, as
for example the first spray for codling moth, is apparently safe, but
there seems to be an accumulative effect that makes later applications
dangerous. Volck has suggested the addition of an equal weight of
commercial iron sulphide to prevent foliage injury, and he states that
when iron sulphide is added the insecticide may be combined with
“Black Leaf 40.” The cost is about 10d. per lb. for 40 lb. lots.
Hellebore (the powdered root stock of the plant, Veratrum album) is
generally sold as a remedy for the rose slug and currant worm. As
the powdered root deteriorates very rapidly when exposed to the air,
much of it, as sold, is practically worthless, and its high cost as an
insecticide, 1s. 54d. per lb., is against its use, especially as thorough
spraying with arsenate of lead after the leaves expand will give better
protection at less cost.
In dealing with contact insecticides, the authors enter fully into the
preparation of lime-sulphur and lay stress upon the well known fact
that lime from magnesian limestone is useless for the preparation,
as the magnesium oxide breaks down the sulphur compounds
which constitute the effective agents in the spray. The question of the
relative cost of commercial versus home-made lime-sulphur is gone
into, and the authors say that when the smal] grower can buy good
commercial lime-sulphur at £2 per barrel there is little or no saving
effected by preparation at home, to say nothing of the cost of plant
and the time and labour involved. The use of the hydrometer for
determining the strengths is explained and dilution tables are given.
Kerosene emulsion. The authors’ formula is :—Ordinary bar soap
3 lb., soft water 1 gal., kerosene 2 gals. This is to be regarded as the
concentrated stock solution and, if properly made, will keep for some
time. For use on trees in foliage dilute with 10-15 parts of water.
Montana growers, it is said, have not been very successful in the use
of this emulsion. Soft water is difficult to obtain and the oil soon
separates and causes injury if used upon trees in foliage. The addition
of soda has been tried in order to remedy this defect, but the result was
not very satisfactory.
Linseed oil emulsion. The authors say that against oyster-shell
scale this emulsion was found to be the most effective out of the large
(C67) cl
562
number tried; the only drawback to its use is the cost of the oil—
4s. 2d. per gallon. As lime-sulphur is cheaper and will control the
scale if properly applied, linseed oil emulsion has not been recom-
mended, but where trees are very badly infested a first spraying with
this emulsion may well be afforded, because of its greater and more
immediate effectiveness. Linseed oil emulsion also has a special value
for spraying trees which are close to buildings as it does not damage
baie The stock solution is directed to be made as follows :—Raw
inseed oil 2 gals., soft soap 2 quarts, rain-water 1 gal. The soap is
dissolved in boiling water and the oil at once added and the mixture
churned to a creamy emulsion. For use, dilute 1 gal. of this with.
15 gals. of water. The authors say that they have obtained the best
results by making the solution immediately before use.
Tobacco extract. Within the last few years several tobacco ex-
tracts, the best known of which are “‘ Black Leaf” and “‘ Black Leaf
40,” have come into prominence as contact insecticides, being used
with marked success against plant lice. They are guaranteed to
contain 2°7 per cent. and 40 per cent. of nicotin respectively ; the
nicotin is said to be in the form of nicotin sulphate. The authors give
the following formulae :—For plant lice use “ Black Leaf 40” 3 oz.,
soap 2 oz., water 4 gals.; or “Black Leaf” 1 gal., soap 2 1b., water
60 gals. The soap is not absolutely necessary, but improves the pene-
tration qualities of the spray. “‘ Black Leaf” costs about 6s. 3d. a
gallon and “ Black Leaf 40 ” £2 12s. for 2 lb.
Combination sprays are dealt with, and the authors remark that
their use is becoming general, their chief value being that two
insecticides are applied at one operation, and this is occasionally
of great importance when the weather is treacherous. The
desirability or otherwise of certain combinations, particularly that
of lime-sulphur with lead arsenate, is discussed. Paris green
should not be used with tobacco extract or lime-sulphur, but
may be used with Bordeaux mixture. Arsenate of lead may be
used with all three, but lime-sulphur mixture then has an increased
tendency to burn the foliage. Arsenite of zinc is not advised with
tobacco extract or Bordeaux mixture.
The bulletin concludes with a table showing the times for spraying
against a number of common orchard and garden pests.
THEOBALD (F, V.). Report on Economic Zoology.— South-Eastern Agric.
Coll., Wye, 2nd April 1914, 158 pp., 69 figs., 17 pl.
The present report deals with some of the enquiries received between
October 1st, 1912 and September 30th, 1913, with regard to insects
as pests on cultivated plants or as harmful to man and animals. Under
each insect mentioned a short account is given of the injury it
does and the best method of destroying it; the author says that
comparatively few of the communications he has received contained
any features of special interest, the majority being in connection
with common pests or methods of spraying. The following lists
are of the pests which have attacked fruit trees and bushes :—
Apple pests: Hop dogs (Dasychira pudibunda); Dark Gothic
Moth (Naenia typica) ; Wood Leopard (Zeuzera pyrina) ; Charadrina
quadripunctata, attacking stored apples; Pale Brindled Beauty Moth
~
563
(Phigalia pilosaria); Green Pug Moth (Chloroclystis rectangulata) ;
Antithesia prunana; cockchafer grubs (? Melolontha melolontha) ;
Nitidulid beetles (Meligethes spp.); Otiorrhynchus picvpes and O.
tenebricosus ; leaf weevils (Phyllobius oblongus); Black Fly (Aphis
rumuzis) ; Capsid bugs (Atractotomus mali and Orthotylus marginalis) ;
Woolly Aphis (Schizoneura lanigera) ; and the mussel scale (Lepido-
saphes ulm).
Currant pests: Currant Shoot Moth (Incurvarta capitella) and
green Capsid bugs (Orthotylus marginals).
Gooseberry pests: Gooseberry gall midge (Rhopalomyia grossu-
larvae); gooseberry sawfly (Nematus ribesw); peach scale (Eule-
canium persicae) ; mussel scale (Lepidosaphes ulm).
Plum pests: Plum-leaf sawfly (Cladius padz), plum fruit sawfly
(Hoplocampa fulvicornis), shot-borer beetle (Xyleborus dispar).
Raspberry pests: Raspberry cane borer (Phorbia sp.) ; raspberry
beetle (Byturus tomontosus). "
Strawberry pests: Swift moth (Hemalus lupulinus), an Aphis
(Macrosiphum fragariellum) and an eelworm (A phelenchus fragariae).
Vine pests:—A Tortricid moth (Batodes angustiorana); vine
weevil (Otcorrhynchus sulcatus).
Aphides of various species which were threatening to destroy crops
of apples, currants and peaches were kept well in check by the fungus
Entomophthora aphidis, Hofiman, the good done by it in controlling
Aphis attacks being greater than that due to parasitic or predaceous
enemies.
The author refers to the effect of manuring trees as a means of
combating their insect enemies. In Germany (Germersheim) plum
trees subject to the attack of Scolytus and Xyleborus were manured,
some with potassium phosphate and others with lime only; the
former had a loss of 84 per cent. due to the insects, the latter 16% per
cent.; untreated trees showed a loss of 334 per cent. The author
holds that the result was due to the more rapid growth of wood in the
manured trees, which would lead to the closing up of the holes made
by the insects and stop further damage. The question of the effects
of manuring in rendering trees resistant to attack has not been worked
out, but from personal observation the author is lead to believe that
in many cases a spray is valuable not in directly destroying the pest,
but in the after effects it produces on the tree, and he considers the
subject worthy of study from this point of view.
The effect of lime-sulphur spray as an insecticide is discussed at
some length ; the following conclusions are given :—That as a cleanser
of trees from insects and mites hibernating on them lime-sulphur is
far behind caustic soda, or hot lime and salt, and on old trees it is
practically of no value for this purpose; little or no good results
from the use of lime-sulphur as an ovicide; as a summer insecticide
it is of definite value for checking pear-leaf blister-mite (Hriophyes
pyri), peach scale (Eulecanium persicae), pear-tree oyster scale
(Aspidiotus ostreaeformis) and San José scale (A. perniciosus), and
under certain conditions has a deleterious effect upon the newly hatched
mussel scale (Lepidosaphes ulmi) and some of the red spiders; it
appears to have some slight value as a stomachic poison for some cater-
(C67) e2
564
pillars, but so many of these are not affected at all that it can claim’
no place as a poison wash against arsenate of lead or nicotin; in the
majority of cases it is useless as a contact wash.
Various other plants and their pests are dealt with, including :—-
Hops: Millepedes (Blanjulus guttulatus and Julus pulchellus), Bramble:
moth (Acronycta rumicis), Bibio hortulanus, and earwigs (Forficula
auricularia). Cereals: Kelworm (Tylenchus devastatrix) and Frit Fly
(Oscinis frit). Root crops: Mangold Black Fly (Aphis rumicis).
The Melon Aphis (Aphis gossypi) is recorded as attacking marrows
-and cucumbers, and it is stated that A. cucurbitc, Buckt., A. alata, Wlk.,
and A. malvae, Koch, are all synonyms of this species. A number of
other insects found on vegetables, ornamental plants and trees are also
recorded.
The Tabby Moth (Aglossa pinguinalis) was found destroying barley
in sacks; a mite, Carpoglyphus anonymus, caused some damage to
dried fruits, sugar, etc.: while the occurrence in large numbers of
Aleurobius farinae, a flour mite, and of Glyciphagus domesticus, a
furniture mite, is also recorded.
The report, as usual, is very fully illustrated.
Frntzescou (G.). Contribution a l’étude de la Biologie d’ Hyponomeuta
malinella en Rumanie. [Contribution to the study of the biology
of Hyponomeuta malinellus in Roumania.|—Rev. Scrent. Bourbon-
nais, Moulins, xxvii, no. 3, 1914, pp. 78-80.
The author has studied the biology of Hyponomeuta malinellus in
Roumania during the last few years and has found that there are
three generations in the year. The winter eggs are laid in June and
July, and hatch out in March or April, according to temperature
conditions prevailing in February and March.
MacDoueaLt (R.8.). Bee Diseases and Bee Enemies.—T rans. High-
land & Agric. Soc of Scotland, 1914. Reprint, 20 pp., 3 figs.
The author in this paper gives a general account of the subject,
and summarises the main results of recent work. He cites papers
dealing with the Isle of Wight bee-disease by Graham-Smith, Fantham,,
Porter, Bullamore and Maldon, and on sacbrood and foulbrood by
White and Maassen [see this Review, Ser. A, i, pp. 330-331, 186 and
523]. The large wax-moth (Galleria mellonella), the lesser wax-moth
(Achrowa grisella), the bee-louse (Braula caeca) and Aphomaa sociella
are included as bee enemies. In connection with protective measures.
against wax-moths, the author refers to a paper by Paddock [see.
this Review, Ser. A, 1, pp. 453-454. ]
JOHNSON (J.). The Control of Diseases and Insects of Tobacco.—
Wisconsin, Agric. Expt. Sta., Madison, Bull. no. 237. May 1914,
34 pp., 9 figs.
The principal insects attacking tobacco are cutworms, horn or
tobacco worms and grasshoppers. Late autumn ploughing is the most.
simple means of reducing the numbers of cutworms and tobacco
|
565
worms. Against cutworms, poisoned bait made by cutting up clover
that has been sprayed with Paris green at the rate of 1 oz. to 6 gallons
should be scattered in the field a couple of days before the tobacco
is transplanted. The spray recommended for use against cutworms
and tobacco worms is made with from 4 to 5 lb. arsenate of
lead paste to 50 gallons of water; one man with a compressed air
sprayer should be able to apply this mixture to about 2 acres of tobacco
a day; the poison costs from 73d. to 10d. a pound.
Pratt (H. C.). Loeust spraying experiments.—Agric. Bull. F.M.S.,
_ Kuala Iumpur, ii, no.£10, May 1914, pp. 249-255.
». This is a detailed report of spraying with arsenite of soda, London
purple and Paris green, “Four Oaks” knapsack sprayers being
used. Twenty-two experiments were made, of which eighteen are
recorded. The cheapest and most effective solution of arsenite of
soda was made by dissolving 1 lb. of arsenite in 1 gal. of water, diluted
with 4 gals. of water for use. In one experiment the arsenite was
dissolved by boiling in 1 gal. of water, and after diluting with 4 gals.
of water, 3 lb. of molasses were added. The locusts were enclosed
in an area of 12 square yards, sparsely covered with short grass.
The solution was sprayed at 11.25 a.m. in the hot sun. Only a little
rain fell after spraying. Practically 100 per cent. of the locusts were
dead at 5 p.m. In another experiment only 2 lb. of molasses were
-used. When high lalang grass full of 4th instar locusts was sprayed
there was no sign of living locusts the followimg morning, though a
few dead ones were found, but owing to the thick lalang and the fact
that the locusts had probably scattered it was difficult to see them.
In another case 1 lb. of arsenite was dissolved in | gal. of water, to
which 4 gals. of water and 1 lb. of molasses were added. This was
used on a fairly large swarm of locusts covering about 4 acres,
where there was little grass on the ground, though it was surrounded
by lalang and blukar grass. Two sprayers were used; a belt of
grass 5 or 6 yards wide was first sprayed round the swarm and
then the inner area was treated. Spraying was conducted between 8
and 11 a.m. in hot sun, heavy rain falling at 3 pm. By 1 p.m.
many locusts were dead and practically the swarm had perished by
5 p.m.
From the results obtained with London purple it is apparent that
mixtures containing | lb. of this poison in either 6 or 12 gals. of water
are the only ones likely to be of use in the field. In one experiment
1lb. of London purple was mixed with 12 gals. of cold water and
4 |b. of molasses were added. The locusts were enclosed in an area
of 12 square yards, over which there was a fair amount of short grass.
‘Spraying was effected at 11.45 a.m. in the hot sun. About 70 per
cent. of the locusts were dead at 5.10 p.m. on the same day, and by
10 a.m. next morning every individual had perished. The experiment
was repeated with half the amount of water, viz., 6 gals., all other
conditions being similar, except that spraying took place earlier in the
day, at 10.15 a.m. About 70 per cent. of the locusts were dead at
5.20 p.m. on the same day and 98 per cent. the next morning at
10 a.m. :
566
One |b. of Paris green in 6 gals. of water proved an effective pro-
portion. In three experiments, $]b. of Paris green was mixed with
3 gals. of water and 2 lb. of molasses were added. In one of these,
the enclosed area, which was well covered with grass, was sprayed at
11 a.m. on a dull day, there being a little rain at 11.30 a.m. At 5.20
p-m. on the same day 10 per cent. of the locusts were dead and this
figure rose to 90 per cent. by 9 a.m. on the following morning. In
two other experiments, areas of 12 square yards containing hoppers
of the 5th instar were enclosed and sprayed at 11 a.m. in the hot sun.
At 8.30 a.m. about 70 per cent. of the enclosed locusts were alive,
but some were developing wings, which would account for their not
feeding. Paris green is slow in its effect, and in considering the result
of these experiments it must be remembered that the locusts were
enclosed and had no option but to eat the poisoned grass.
In solutions of the strengths mentioned above, the relative costs of
the three poisons work out at the following rates per gallon in the Fede-
rated Malay States :—Paris green, 3d. ; London purple, 2d. ; arsenite of
soda, ldd.; the latter being thus not only the most effective but the
cheapest. A nozzle producing a very fine mist should be used. Four
gallons of solution should cover about 400 square yards (48 gals. per
acre), and a coolie under normal conditions can spray 1 acre a day.
Very great care must be taken in using strong solutions of arsenite,
and spraying should not be carried out in the precincts of native
villages, unless special precautions be taken to prevent fowls, &c.,
being poisoned. Arsenite of soda cannot be sprayed on plants that
must not be killed, but is satisfactory in other respects, as grasses
sprayed die very rapidly and cattle cannot therefore graze over a
poisoned area. It is not easy to boil water in the field, but this is not
necessary if the arsenite is well ground up.
Inseet Notes.—Ann. Rept. Dept. Agric. & Cr. Lands, Seychelles, for
1913, Victoria, 1914, pp. 13-17.
Coccus viridis (Lecanitum viride) is reported as still doing great
damage in the country to coffee, citrus and ixora bushes in spite of
the fungus Cephalosporium lecani, which keeps the insect in check
more easily above 1,000 feet elevation. This fungus has been
found this year attacking Hucalymnatus tessellatus (Lecanium tessellatum)
on cinnamon. Chrysomphalus aonidum (Aspidvotus ficus) has extended
during the last three years to various islands of the Archipelago,
some at 150 miles distance from Mahé, and coconut trees were seriously
attacked. The following trees used as supports for vanilla between
limes and coconut were also attacked by this scale :—Frangipane
(Plumeria acuminata), breadfruit (Artocarpus incisa), pseudo-sago palm
(Cycas officinalis) ; citrus and roses are also food-plants of this insect.
Frangipane should never be grown amongst coconuts because it is
the common food-plant of Coccus (Lecanvum) hesperidum. The
Takamaka (Calophyllum triophyllum) is also a host plant of Huca-
lymnatus tessellatus and is constantly present on cinnamon plants used
as supports for vanilla in or near coconut plantations.
Chrysomphalus aonidum spreads suddenly after remaining dormant
for years and it is very important that it should be combated in this
dormant state, especially on small trees and roses which are more
567
easily accessible than tall coconut trees. It is apparently fatal to
young coconut trees suffering from drought or from unsuitable soil,
and its presence is clearly noticeable at a distance by the spotted
appearance of the leaves. It spreads quite as easily in wet as in dry
years, and the young leaves should be burned or scorched with quite
a; much care as the older ones.
Coccus hesperidum and Eucalymnatus tessellatus have been found to
infest leaves of the Water Hyacinth (Hichornia crassipes). The scale-
insects are nearly always accompanied by ants, the commonest of
which, Technomyrmex albipes, has been studied, especially as the
species has also become a common household pest. These black ants
| are supposed to have been introduced in 1904 from Ceylon in a con-
signment of coconut, cacao, nutmeg and Hevea rubber seedlings,
which arrived by H. MS. “ Merlin, ” but there is abundant proof that
they are indigenous, as they were described as far back as 1861 by
Smith, having been found in a consignment of palms received at
Kew from the Seychelles. It was not, however, until after 1906 that
they became household pests nearly everywhere in Victoria, and this
fact can only be accounted for by the increase of scale-insects,
which, after the droughts of 1904, obtained a strong hold and caused
the destruction of most of the Citrus, Hibiscus and Liberian coffee
plants growing in the colony. In Mahé the spread of the ants has
been estimated at about 1 mile per annum and was more or less
coincident with the spread of the scale-insects. With the exception
of La Digue, North Island, Marianne and Aride Island in the Mahé
group, Aldabra, Astove and Cosmoledo in the Aldabra group, and the
Amirantes, all the other islands are infested, and if no measures are
taken to stop the distribution of ants carried in supplies purchased
from ships, it will not be long before these insects have invaded the
whole archipelago, as there is no climatic factor which can hinder
their dispersal. They have not, however, spread above 1,500 feet,
though it is not yet known whether this is due to climate or to the
presence of parasites.
These ants are principally troublesome owing to the protection they
afford to countless numbers of scale-insects, with the following
species of which they are associated :—Icerya seychellarum, Eucalym-
natus, Coccus longulus, Coccus viridis, Pseudococcus (Dactylopius)
curt, P. virgatus, Asterolecanium epidendri, Pulvinaria psidu, P. anti-
gom, Vinsonia stellifera, Chrysomphalus aonidum. They seem not to
care in the same degree for :—Chonaspis inday, Hemichionaspis
manor, H. aspidistrae, Aulacaspis (Diaspis) pentagona, Mytilaspis
auriculata, Saissetia nigra (Lecanium nigrum), Asterolecanium bam-
busae, which are quite as common insects as those in the preceding
list, but they have to become strongly established on certain species of
plants before the ants are attracted by them. These ants and their
habits are described at length, and the importance of their destruc-
tion as the propagators of scale-insects is strongly insisted upon.
Nests may be destroyed by spraying with soda-resin solution and
by the use of trap boxes, the contents of which are periodically burned.
[See this Review, Ser. A, i, p. 328.]
The Rhinoceros beetle in the Seychelles interferes greatly with the
growth of young coconut trees and all palms are attacked with the
568
exception of areca nut, Crystostachys, Nyophorbe, Caryota urens,
Chrysalidocarpus and various species of Atenga. The coco-de-mer is
fortunately seldom attacked. Lwvistonas, Verschaffeltia, Oreodoxa and
Deckenia are the favourite food-plants. Another coconut beetle
(Melitomma insulare) is very common and does much damage, but
is kept under better control than formerly by the destruction of the
fallen trees and by removing the larvae from standing ones, although
this involves a considerable amount of labour. They are difficult to
trap as they breed inside the trees and the females do not seem to
travel far; the males, on the contrary, fly a considerable distance.
In well-kept plantations the beetle is not so common as formerly,
though 11 per cent. of young trees (about 10 years old) were found
to be badly attacked in many cases.
BopkIn (G. E.). Report of the Economic Biologist of British Guiana
| for 1912-1913.—Georgetown, 1914, 10 pp.
As regards the sugar-cane pests, Castnia licus was less troublesome,
but termites more so, owing to the exceptional drought. The work
of past years in the reduction of Castnia and other cane pests is now
apparent, except in the case of Diatraea saccharalis, F., and D. canella,
Hmp. The collection of Dratraea egg-masses, the use of trap-lights
and the cutting out of young cane dead hearts, followed by the
collection of the pupae in them, are all excellent measures if
properly carried out. The following is a preliminary list of insect
enemies of Dvatraea, some being original observations :—Tricho-
gramma minutum, Riley, Prophanurus alecto, Cwid. ; two undetermined
species of ants; the Braconids, [phiaulax medianus, Cam., Cremnops
parvifasciatus, Mesostenoideus sp.; the Chalcid, Heptasmicra curw-
lineata, Cam. ; an undetermined Tachinid fly ; an Elaterid larva; the
Histerid, Lioderma 4-dentatum; the larva of a Stratiomyid fly. [See
this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 520.] A list is also given of 15 new cane pests,
of minor importance, but which require watching.
Rice pests include the rice caterpillar, Laphygma fruguperda, 8. & A.,
[see this Review, Ser. A, i, pp. 318 & 480] andthe grass moth, Remigia
repanda, Fabr., [see this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 519], which were the
only serious ones. A parasitic fungus, which appeared among a species
of Pentatomid bug (Tibraca limbativentris, Stal) abundant on rice
this season, has been briefly studied. The following is a list of insects
which from time to time have been observed to attack rice in British
Guiana :—Maenas laboulbenei, Diatraea saccharalis, L., Scirpophaga
albinella, Cramer ; two species of Chrysomelid beetles; Pseudococcus
calceolariae, Ckll.; Tomaspis flavilatera, Urich, Mormidea ypsilon, L.,
Tibraca lambativentris, Stal; Conocephaloides maaxillosus, F.
Para and other rubber trees received a serious set-back through
defoliation by the caterpillars of the cassava hawk-moth, Hrinnyts
(Dilophonota) ello [see this Review, Ser. A, i, pp. 1389 & 258], which
attacks nearly every species of Euphorbiaceae and is thus able to com-
plete its life-history in the forest or on waste lands. On large areas,
4 lb. of lead arsenate in 50 gals. of water proved to be an efficient
spray. The injury anticipated from its increase in numbers was
prevented by the appearance of the small egg-parasite Telenomus
dilophonotae, Cam. Up to the present Hevea brasiliensis, as grown in
569
British Guiana, has shown itself to be peculiarly free from insect
attack, but the following insects, principally Coccrpaz, have been
observed to attack it in the Colony :—Erinnyis ello; Tropidacris
cristata, and an undetermined Locustid; Empicoris variolosus, L. ;
Asterolecamum pustulans, Ckll., Vinsonia stellifera, West., Saissetia
nigra, Nietn., Aspidiotus destructor, Sign., Aspidiotus (Chrysomphalus)
personatus, Comst. .
The caterpillars of Brassolis sophorae still continue to damage
coconut palms in all parts of the Colony, as trouble is seldom taken to
apply the comparatively easy control measures recommended. Other
pests are a large black Dynastid beetle (Strategus aloeus, F.); Aspidiotus
destructor, which is easily controlled by kerosene emulsion and is preyed
upon by Cryptognatha nodiceps, Mshll., and Azya trinitatis, Mshll.; and
the palm weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum, L. The following list is
given of the insects injurious to coconut palms in British Gwana :—
Castma licus, Castnia daedalus, Sibine trimacula, Brassolis sophorae,
a Hesperid butterfly ; Strategus aloeus, F., Rhynchophorus palmarum,
L., Metamasius henipterus, L., Dyscinetus bidentatus, Rhina barbirostris;
Aspidiotus destructor, Sign., Vinsoma siellifera, Westwood ; Cerataphis
lataniae; Aleurodicus cocois, Aleurodes sp.
Citrus plants cultivated in suitable soils have been singularly free
from the attack of insects, particularly of Cocctpar. This is due to
the heavy rainfall and the presence of parasitic fungi such as Cephalo-
sportum lecani and Sphaerostilbe coccophila. Where the plants are
poorly cultivated in the heavy clay soils of the coastlands, they are
attacked by many scale-insects, as many as six distinct species often
occurring on a single tree. An accompanying black blight is character-
istic of scale attack. A list of these Coccids is given [see this Review,
Ser. A, 1, p. 416]. On several occasions the caterpillars of Papilio
anchisiades defoliated orange trees.
Cacao was attacked by Pseudococcus citrt, Risso, Heliothrips rubro-
einctus, Giard, Horiola arcuata, F., and Coffee by Savrssetia hemi-
sphaerica, Targ., Coccus hesperidum, L., Selenaspidus articulatus, Morg.,
Saissetia oleae, Bern., Ischnaspis longirostris, Sign. (filuformis, Doug.)
ANDERSON (T.J.). Report of the Entomologist.—Ann. Rept. Dept. Agric.
Br. East Africa, for 1912-13, London, 1914, pp. 124-131.
During the period under review no severe outbreak of insect pests
occurred, but several new ones have been discovered and the old ones
were more or less abundant.
Lamellicorn beetle larvae did more than the usual amount of damage,
especially on badly cultivated land. As the roots of bush and grasses
form the natural food of these pests, clean cultivation and the removal
of wild grass, &c., near the crops is an obvious remedy ; fallow land
should also be frequently cultivated in order to keep down wild food
plants and thus starve out the grubs. The adult beetles fly by night
and destroy the foliage of trees and bushes, especially of vines and
fruit trees. In the daytime they may be found round the stems of
the plants 1 to 3 inches below the surface. They may be readily dug
up and destroyed, and a boy, who had been shown how to collect,
brought in 500 in one day. Schizoneura lanigera has been found in
new localities, possibly imported with the soil attached to nursery
570
stock and thus escaping detection by the plant inspectors. The
injection of carbon bisulphide into the soil and spraying or painting
the bared roots with strong tobacco decoction proved satisfactory
remedies. A Rule under the Diseases of Plants Prevention Ordinance
has been drafted to prohibit the importation of apple trees other than
those grafted on the immune Majetin or Northern Spy stocks. Cut-
worms have given great trouble, especially in tobacco plantations,
and though, by removing the attacked plants and filling their places
with others, the pests are kept down, the result is an uneven crop
which causes trouble at harvest time. Poisoned bran baits, frequent
stirring of the soil and the collection of the caterpillars have proved
useful.
The wheat aphis, Toxoptera graminis, comes and goes on wheat in
a manner difficult to explain; it was very abundant during the year
under report, but disappeared almost completely in a very short time
after a shower of rain.
Anthores leuconotus, the white coffee borer, perhaps the worst enemy
of coffee in Africa, is only known at present in one locality in the
Protectorate—at the Bura Mission, about 25 miles from Voi, on the
Voi-Taveta road. The locality is isolated and no other coffee is grown
in the near neighbourhood. The author refers for remedies to Mor-
statt’s report on pests of coffee [see this Review, Ser. A,i, pp. 104-108].
Apate monacha, F., has been reported from one or two plantations,
in each case near the forest from which the pest has spread to the
coffee. Pruning, burning the prunings and the injection of carbon
bisulphide into the boreholes when these occurred in the stem sufficed
to keep this Bostrychid beetle in check. The carbon bisulphide
apparently had the effect of making all dormant buds develop.
Apate also attacks wattle, Casuarina and Grevillea. The following
beetles are numerous and have done some damage by eating the
leaves of coffee. Pachnoda sinuata, ¥., Adoretus punctipenms, Fahr.,
and A. pagensteckeri, Gerst., Anomala kerstent, Gerst., species of
Schizonycha, Camenta and Dicasticus and Systates cribripennas,
Fairm. Antestia variegata, Thunb. var. lineaticollis, Stal, occurs
in all coffee plantations, and though the damage as yet done
is small the possibilities are serious if it is not kept in check.
The author says that the remedies suggested by Morstatt
(loc. cit.) are practically useful. Sphaerocoris ocellus, Klg., Agonos-
celis puberula, Stal., Bagrada picta, F., and Nezara spp. are common
bugs and are to be regarded as potential pests. The locusts, Phymateus
superbus and Zonocerus elegans, are plentiful, and have been
found eating the leaves of coffee. The scale-insects attacking coffee
are Lecanium africanum, Newst., Coccus viridis, Green, C. hesperidum, L.,
Ceroplastes sp., and Pseudoccocus citri, Risso. The larvae of Ceratitis
capitata, Wied., feed on the pulp of ripe or over-ripe berries, but are
killed during the pulping. They are hardly to be regarded as a pest.
Leucoptera (Cemiostoma) sp. is found wherever coffee grows, but is
only a minor pest.
Tobacco has been damaged by the split worm or leaf miner
(Phthorimaea heliopa, Lwr.), which spoils “wrapper” leaf. The moth
greatly resembles the potato tuber moth, and the author thinks
that it was possibly introduced with seed potatoes. The pupal
571
stage averages only five days, so that there are several generations
during the growth of the crop. The lower leaves are chiefly attacked,
and each larva may be responsible for several blotches on one leaf.
When the tobacco is flue-cured the caterpillars are killed, but when
air-cured, quantities are to be found hanging to it by silken threads.
The moths hide in the barns, or among tobacco stems and rubbish
on the field left after harvest. This should be collected and burned,
and when the plants are pulled up the earth clinging to the roots
should not be shaken off, but thrown on to the fire; many pupae will
thus be destroyed.
Paylio demodocus is common on all citrus trees, the chief damage
being done to young plants. Handpicking or, in the nurseries, spraying
with arsenate of lead, is efficacious. The Citrus Aphis does a great
deal of damage to young shoots and leaves, retarding growth and
distorting them. Spraying with a decoction of the locally grown
tobacco is an effective method of control. The Citrus Psylla (Trioza
sp.) is found all over the Protectorate and, though not a serious
pest, damages young shoots and leaves. It is kept in check by
natural parasites, and the larvae may be killed by spraying with
tobacco, soap, or kerosene emulsion. Lepidosaphes becki, Newm.,
and Icerya purchasi have been reported on citrus, the latter also
on wattle, lemon, orange, roses and grass.
The following Aphids are recorded :—Macrosiphum lophospermum,
Theo., sp.n., from Lophospermum erubescens (Maurandia barclayana) ;
M. lycopersicella, Theo., sp. nov., from Cape Tomato ; M. antirrhinum,
Macchiate, from Antirrhinum. M. granarwwm, Kirby, from broom-
corn (sorghum); Rhopalosiphum lactucae, Kalt., from Sonchus ;
Aphis gossypi, Glover, from cotton; A. tavaresi, Del Guer., from
orange trees; A. solanella, Theo., sp. nov., from Solanum sp.; A.
africana, Theo., sp. nov., from broomcorn (sorghum) and barley ;
Toxoptera graminum, Rond., from wheat.
RHUMBLER (L.). Die Buchenrinden-Wollaus (Cryptococcus fagz) und
ihre Bekampfung. [The Felted Beech Coccus and its control. |—
J. Neumann, Neudamm, n.d., 32 pp.; price 20 Pfennige.
So far, records have been made of over 500 trees attacked by this
scale in the Miinden districts of Gahrenberg and Cattenbiihl. It
usually hibernates as a wool-covered larva, firmly fixed to the bark.
From April to June the larvae transform into perfect insects
and oviposition begins, several batches of eggs being laid by each
female up to the end of October. During August and September
hatching requires only 25 to 26 days in the laboratory ; in September
and October 45 to 50 days are necessary in the open air. The
strong-legged young larvae are able to travel over the smooth bark,
and their rate of progress increases at higher temperatures, a 6-foot
climb being possible on a warm afternoon. After wandering for
some time the larva fixes itself definitely. Occasionally wax is pro-
duced before this, but asa rule the secretion only begins after
attachment. The ambulatory larva is responsible for the spread of
infestation on a given tree, but the dispersal from one tree to another
is due to the wind-borne waxy secretion containing eggs. The
dangerous months are from June to November inclusive, September
572
and October being the worst. Reproduction appears to be almost
exclusively parthenogenetic, as males only occur very rarely. In
order to ascertain the number of larvae carried by the wind in
a given time, over a given distance, glass slabs covered with bird-
lime were used. Beeches are infested at all periods of their
existence, and the universal occurrence of the pest makes the
treatment of single trees useless. Experiments, still in progress,
show that a female lays at least 15 eggs, which should give rise to
50,625 females in 4 years. In spite of this only a slight increase is
usually visible after 6 years, and investigation shows that this is due
to the fact that they seldom survive when the host tree is in normal
health. The scales avoid very soft, tender and “corky” bark, and
also trees which Limazx arborum has cleared of their covering of lichen
and Protococcus pluvialis. Scrubbing is therefore a measure of some
value. An outbreak is only an increase of existing scale infesta-
tion due to the trees suffering injury from other causes, as
shown by the fact that a healthy tree will remain uninfested, though
growing close to a severely infested one. The observations of many
years prove that the trees are not killed by scale infestation alone, and
on trees which have died subsequently to such infestation brown or
brown-black spots occur on the trunks, which exude a fluid. These
are probably not caused by Cryptococcus fagi, and the author thinks
that they are due to a hitherto unknown fungus. Leptis and other
flies suck the fluid from these spots and possibly act as carriers. The
death of the trees is hastened by various pests, first Xylofecus
domesticus, then Lymexylon dermestoides. Nectria ditissima and other
fungi follow. The author considers the chief enemies concerned in
the destruction of the beech to be the agent causing the spots and
Nectria ditissima. Neither of these is at present controllable, but
Cryptococcus fagr, which undoubtedly injures the tree, should not be
neglected. When attacks of the three pests occur in less than 10 per
cent. of the trees the axe is perhaps the best remedy. In more severe
infestations the scales may be energetically brushed off the bark,
and if over 20 per cent. of the trees are attacked they should be
sprayed with Schacht’s Fruit-tree Carbolineum, 1 part in 4 parts of
water, or painted with a solution made up of | part and 5 parts
water, at an estimated cost of about 22s. per acre.
]
Mote (D. C.). The Cheese Skipper (Pzophila casei, L.).—Ohio Nat.,
Columbus, xiv, no. 7, May 1914, pp. 309-316, 1 pl.
The cheese skipper (Piophila caser, L.), so called on account of the
peculiar leaping habits of the larva, is of considerable economic
importance to man on account of its attacks on cheese, smoked meats,
etc., and its possible relation to myiasis. The fly deposits its eggs
upon bacon, cheeses, smoked ham, slightly putrid meat, etc. The
duration of the egg stage is 23-54 hours, and of the larval period
14 days. Pupation occurs in drier places than those in which the
larvae feed and occupies 12 days. The flies, in an experiment, seemed
to prefer beef-steak with a slightly putrid odour for purposes of ovi-
position. The adult flies lived longer and the larvae fed and matured
more readily on this than on other foods. The anatomy of the larva
and adult fly is described.
573
Laturorp (F. H.). Egg-laying of the Rice Weevil, Calandra oryzae, L.
—Ohio Nat., Columbus, xiv, no. 7, May 1914, pp. 321-327, 5 figs.
The rice weevil, Calandra oryzae, L., well known throughout the
United States as a pest of stored grain, is in the South especially
destructive to maize. An account is given in the present paper of the
egg-laying habits of this weevil, which are of a highly adaptive char-
acter and may be of economic importance. The eggs are deposited
in such a position that the larvae are surrounded by an abundance
of food, and are protected during the helpless period of life. By being
laid beneath the surface of the grain, the eggs are protected to a large
extent from external injury, excessive drying and sudden changes of
temperature. The cavity in which the eggs are laid is sealed by the
mother with a plug, which is probably useful against predaceous and
parasitic enemies and is incidentally a safeguard against gases used
in fumigation. In spite of this plug, numerous instances were observed
in which the predaceous mite, Pediculoides ventricosus, Newp., success-
fully attacked and destroyed the eggs and larvae, as well as the adult
weevils.
Faure (J. C.). Sweet-Potato Sphinx.—Agric. Jl. Union S. Africa,
Pretoria, vu, no. 4, April 1914, pp. 515-519, 1 fig.
The sweet-potato industry in the New Hanover-Dalton District in
Natal has increased so rapidly in recent years that there are probably
2,000 acres of this crop annually of a gross value of about £20,000.
The larvae of the sweet-potato moth (? Herse convolvuli, L.) seriously
defoliates the crop, reducing it by from 25 to 50 per cent. Growers
maintain that there may be three separate attacks in a season—in
November, January and March.
The eggs are laid singly on the under side of the leaves, pupation
taking place in the soil. A Tachinid parasite has been reared from the
larvae, and also a Chalcid which may be a hyperparasite. Spraying
experiments were undertaken, small plots being sprayed with arsenate
of lead (3 lb. to 50 gallons), and Paris green (1 lb. to 75 gallons and
2 lb. lime), both sprays being sweetened. From 30-80 per cent. of the
larvae were killed and the sprayed plots were largely avoided by
migrating caterpillars.
VAN DER WALT (J.). Lime for Green Aphis.— Agric. JI. Union S. Afreca,
Pretoria, vii, no. 4, April 1914, pp. 576-577.
In the spring of 1911, the author had four peach trees very badly
infested with green aphis. The trees were thoroughly wetted and
unslaked lime powdered over them in the morning ; the same afternoon
the trunks of the trees were green with insects that had left the
branches. A few days later the trees were quite clean and began to
grow again. In 1912 the whole orchard was treated in this way, and
in 1913 not a single aphis was to be found. For trees about 6-8 feet
high 3 lb. of lime per tree was used. This treatment is cheaper than
the nicotin treatment.
574
THoMSEN (F.). Locust Birds.—Agric. Jl. Union S. Africa, Pretoria,
vil, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 682-683.
During the campaign of February and March 1914, against Locusta
pardalina, the various locust-birds were very scarce. Cuzconia alba,
the European stork, usually the most important factor, rendered no
help at all, and none of the small locust-birds (Glareola melanogaster)
were seen. The wattled starling (Dilophus carunculatus), although
doing good work.among swarms, does not follow the locusts into the
open veld or dry mountainous country, and fruit gardens proved a
greater attraction than the locusts, havoc being played with ripe figs
and grapes. It is during the nesting season that this starling does its
best work among the voetgangers. Other birds mentioned as being
of minor importance in locust-control are the spreuw (Spreo bicolor),
the korhan or pouw, the blue crane, larks, finches and a glossy starling.
Locust Destruction in the Cape Midlands.— Agric. Jl. Union S. Africa,
Pretoria, vii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 706-708.
Locusts were unexpectedly numerous this spring, and appeared on
ninety farms instead of on three, where eggs were known to have been
deposited. In spite of control measures, it was estimated that 10
per cent. developed to the winged stage; the flying swarms spread
over a great area and laid eggs almost at once. The brown locust
(L. pardalina) was heretofore supposed to be single-brooded, but the
laying of eggs at midsummer led the Department of Agriculture to
expect a second generation and accordingly special field work was
undertaken against this generation by Mr. F. Thomsen. On 134
farms, 768 swarms, estimated at 389,000,000 insects were destroyed.
Scorr (KE. W.) & Paine (J. H.). The Lesser Bud-Moth.—Jl. Agric.
Research, Washington, D.C., u, no. 2, May 1914, pp. 161-163.
During the spring of 1912 the work of a small lepidopterous larva
was noticed in the buds of unsprayed apple trees. In a neglected
orchard near the laboratory this insect was the most important
factor in the destruction of the entire crop of fruit. The species
proved to be Recurvaria crataegella, Busck, which the authors
suggest is a synonym of the European R. nanella, Hiibn.
Gupry (P. L.). Birds and their Value to the Agriculturist —Bull. Dept.
Agric., Trinidad and Tobago, Port-of-Spain, xiii, no. 80, May
1914, pp. 148-156, 4 pls.
The author states that, with a few exceptions, birds play an in-
significant part in the control of harmful insects in Trinidad, and that
far more work is done in this direction by parasites and predaceous
insects. The following insects are abundant in localities where birds
are plentiful :—Cotton stainer (Dysdercus howardz), corn bud-worm
(Laphygma frugiperda), tobacco horn-worm (Protoparce sexta), tobacco
bud-worm (Chloridea virescens), cutworms (Prodenia spp.), striped
cane looper (Remigia repanda), sugar-cane bud-worm (Cirphis humi-
dicola), froghoppers (Tomaspis spp.), etc. Some birds are undoubtedly
harmful, such as grass birds, doves, the little black corn-bird (Molothrus
575
atronitens) and the soldier bird (Leistes militaris), which damage rice,
and parrots, tanagers and others which injure fruit crops; none
of these are insectivorous. The wren (Troglodytes rufulus) is useful
in gardens and orchards in eating harmful insects, but is itself preyed
upon by the oat bird. Hymenopterous parasites, Tachinid and
Syrphid flies play the most important part in controlling insect pests
in. Trinidad. One of the most valuable Hymenopterous parasites
is Anagrus flaveolus, which preys upon the eggs of the corn-leaf hopper
(Peregrinus mardis), destroying 75-80 per cent. The cotton worm
(Alabama argillacea) is efficiently held in check in Trinidad by Tachinid
flies (Phorocera sp.), while Syrphid flies reduce the numbers of
Aphids, Coccids and froghoppers.
Datmasso (G.)._ I risultati d’un primo anno di lotta organizzata contro
le tignuole dell’uva in Piemonte. [The results of a first year of
organised combat against the vine moth in Piedmont. |—Riv. Vitic.
Enol. Agrar., Conegliano, xx, no. 9, Ist May 1914, pp. 193-197.
In the vine-growing districts of Piedmont, Polychrosis botrana is
much more numerous than Clysia ambiguella. In 1913, the spring
and summer generations were injurious, but the autumn or third
generation did little harm, as the caterpillars appeared after the
vintage. Weather conditions explain this fact, which supplies the key
to an apparent anomaly in the behaviour of Polychrosis, which some-
times destroys a large portion of the grapes a few days before the
vintage and at other times ceases to be injurious at this period.
Nicotin, asa controlling agent, was chiefly adopted and its effects varied
very considerably. This variation is due to the modes of application
and to the inconstant composition of nicotin in Italy. The campaign
is to be renewed in 1914, and the author suggests that it should be
prepared for by cleaning the vines, arranging shelter traps and dis-
seminating parasites. The latter object may be attained by placing
infested grapes in pans covered with fine wire gauze which will allow
the parasites only to escape. The author dissents from the statement
—made in the report on the campaign—that arsenate of lead is the
best insecticide to use against the first generation.
ScHOUTEDEN (H.). Les Orthoptéres nuisibles aux Plantations en
Afrique. [Orthoptera harmful to plantations in Africa. ]}—Rev.
Zool. Afric., Brussels, 11, no. 3, 25th May 1914, pp. 464-470, 2 pl.
Among the most harmful African Orthoptera are Zonocerus variegatus
and Z. elegans, which are widespread in both East and West Africa ;
Z. elegans is found as far east as Madagascar; in the Congo Z. variegatus
is the more common species. The damage these insects do is rendered
greater by the wide range of plants, such as rubber, cacao, coffee,
cotton, etc., which they attack. In Hast Africa, the larvae of
Z. elegans appear in October and the adults in January. In Nigeria,
the larvae of Z. variegatus appear in October and are to be observed
as late as the following March. The best method to combat Zonocerus
seems to be to catch the insects directly in nets, and drop them into
vessels containing water with a layer of petroleum on the surface.
The best time to do this is just before the appearance of the adults.
576
DrcRuLiy (L.). Sulfatage et charette 4 transformation. [Spraying
and a convertible cart for carrying spray solutions. |—Progrés Agric.
Vitic., Montpellier, xxxi, no. 19, 10th May 1914, pp. 579-580, 1 fig.
The author describes an apparatus patented by M. Edmond Blanc,
which permits of large quantities of liquids being transported by one
man without other help, and comprises a cart, a loose frame and a
barrel. The tailboard and bottom of an ordinary two-wheeled farm
cart are removed and iron slides fitted underneath its body. By means
of chains and pulleys worked by a windlass the axle may be shifted
along the body so that equilibrium may be maintained with varying
loads. The square metal frame is placed on the ground between
the wheels. It can be raised horizontally off the ground by means
of the chains, to which its four corners are secured. The
barrel stands on two very thick and solid battens fixed on its
bottom. For loading, the cart is backed until its body encompasses
the barrel, the frame is pushed underneath the latter and a few turns
of the windlass will raise the barrel off the ground, a wooden post
fixed on the cart keeping the barrel upright. By slackening the
windlass the barrel may be readily lowered to the ground.
STRATFORD (G.). Cherry-Culture—J/. Agric., Wellington, N.Z., vii,
no. 5, 20th May 1914, pp. 480-495.
The only insect pest of any importance that attacks the cherry
in New Zealand is the pear or cherry slug. It is a sawfly larva,
black and slimy in appearance, about 23 inch long, and resembling a
small garden slug. It feeds on the upper sides of the leaves, and if
unchecked does serious injury to the’ trees, but is easily controlled
if sprayed with hellebore or arsenate of lead without delay.
AtTTWATER (H. P.). Use and Value of Wild Birds to Texas Farmers
and Stockmen and Fruit and Truck Growers.—Bull. Texas Dept.
Agric., Austin, no. 37, May-June 1914, 61 pp., 16 figs.
This bulletin has been compiled with a view of furnishing infor-
mation to farmers on the economic value of wild birds in regard to
agriculture in Texas, and contains accounts of a large number of
speeies found in that State which are in danger of being exterminated
for purposes of sport or on account of the damage they are supposed
to do. Investigation made by the Department of Agriculture has
shown that 53 per cent. of the food of the birds in one locality was
found to consist of the larvae of disease-disseminating mosquitos.
Horse-flies are also the natural food of several species of birds. The
fever tick, injurious to cattle, is the food of the kildeer and the plover.
Maize, cotton and other crops are destroyed to a large extent by grass-
hoppers, and there are at least twenty-three species of birds that
feed upon these. The cotton boll-weevil is eaten by the plover,
kildeer and other birds. The damage which birds may cause is
insignificant compared with the good they do in controlling insect
pests, and the artificial conditions which arise from the opening up
of uncultivated land for agricultural purposes can only be made up
for by encouraging birds to eat the insects which destroy the crops.
NOTICES.
a _ ‘The Editor will be glad to receive prompt information as to the
ypearance of new pests, or of known pests in districts which have
eae > been free from them, and will welcome any suggestion the
_ador ion of which would increase the usefulness of the Review.
ies
ae
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Finns 8s., and Series B (Medical and Veterinary), 5s. per annum.
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; CONTENTS.
PAGE
Applica Entomology and Bird Protection in Germany . are ae
4 praying the Pear Psyllain New York State .. ... cf 529
ilkkworms'and their economic importance Se ay 530
e Destruction by Heat of the Germs of Bee-Diseases 2 530
: Insect Pests and Fungoid Diseases in Barbados .. i: he 531
_ Borer Pests of Ficus elastica in Java Py ra 533
- Annual Report of the State Entomologist of Montana .. Be 536
_ State Aid in combating Vine Pests in Luxemburg 537
“Beer ne Control of both Generations of Ue ambiguella in
Luxemburg ee 538
e- me tions as to the Sale of Insecticides in France... or 538
_ The Control of Vine Pests in the Palatinate ie ¢. ¥ 538
Pests of Fruit Trees in France : be Se 539
Be eeemnation of Polychrosis botrana in France’ ne jie 539
_ RBhinoceros Beetle Traps in Ceylon Per Ys ae ‘% 540
The cass Weevil in Ceylon 7 oa one 540
an as e Bean Fly, Agromyza phaseoli, in Ceylon ee =i Mid 541
Sa si ntrol of Grasshoppers in Arizona ; Py ae Pig 541
8 of onions in France de Pa =i oF os ae 542
oe chasi in Louisiana x mY 542
rig | jemies! oe on Lime- Sulphur Spray... 543
aan hgh of Materials sold as Insecticides and Fungicides 1 in
ee ees r* 546
on be rician Wathods of Insect Destruction .. tip Boe A 546
por he of Earwigs ts Ne 546
Indigenous Silkworms (Anaphe) i in the Belgian Congo rs as 547
a Tnidect Parasites of the Ground-nut in Senegal .. <3 a 549
_ The Preparation of Bordeaux Mixture a Mp e 550
"An effective method of controlling Vine Moths $f i fs 550
ia ae for Vine Pests Ae te ‘ om a pig 552
ae
Ea
Report of the Govt. Entomologist of British’ E
ingedt Notes from California Uke ot
a hialies and Cydia Sh ue in “Galifornia
mportation of Black Seale Parasites from
an Califormia’sso50 ¥
Formula for Spray against Orange Thrips in California
Cacao Culture in Samoa .. noha
Termites and Eucalyptus i in “Nyasaland ee
Saponin in Copper Sulphate Sprays ..
Nysius senecionis, a Pest of newly planted Vines i in
Practical Instructions for Vine Moth Control ..
Blaniulus guttulatus, an injurious Millipede in F
The Coconut Beetle (Oryctes) in British, E. Africa *
A Method for ERICA me Peach Bee ice gzonat
Bengal Borers ue 4
eminent on the Farm . said Sea atalino cat aaa
Fungicides and Insecticides ue Montana ee :
Some British Insect Pests... Sette at
Hyponomeuta malinellus in Roumania ais ge
Bee Diseases and Enemies in Britain. SS a,
The Control of Tobacco Pests in U.S. "Ge =
Locust spraying experiments in the Fellenate.
Insect Pests in the Seychelles .. :
Report of the Economic Biologist of British 3
1912-13 mene - 4
Bee Loa be be ae eee yny Ss ; x
The Felted Beech Coccus and its. control i in Hanover
Piophila easeiin U.S.A... ah
The Rice Weevil, Calandra oryzae, in U. SA. te
The Sweet Potato Sphinx in Natal . 5
Green Aphis controlled with Lime i in South Africa
Locust: Birds in Seuth Africa: <5. es
Locust Destruction in South Aiea =<
A Pest of Apple Trees in U.S.A. A
Birds and their Value to the Agriculturist in Trinidad
The Control of Polychrosis botrana in Italy — >
Injurious African Orthoptera (Zonocerus)
A Method of transporting Spray Solutions
The Cherry Slug in New Zealand:. ..
The Value of Wild Birds in Texas 72%
» Sara are.
ANS
EEN Betas) 23 AERIS ate ge pet Se,
4
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Fe a B ’ %
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a Pisin |
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‘Ser. AL Part 10. —pp. 577-624. OCTOBER, 1914.
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IMPERIAL BUREAU OF ENTOMOLOGY.
Honorary Commitice of Management. a
THE EARL OF CROMER, G.C.B., O.M., G.C.M.G., Chairman.
Lieutenant-Colonel A. W. Aucocx, C.I.H., ¥.8.8., London School of
Tropical Medicine. |
Mr. E. E. Austen, Entomological Department, British Museum —
(Natural History). at
Dr. A. G. BaasnaweE, Director, Tropical Diseases Bureau. |
Sir J. Ross Braprorp, K.C.MG., F.R.8., Secretary, Royal Society.
' Surgeon-General Sir Davip BRucE, C.B., ER. 8., A.M.S. a
Dr. 8. F. Harmer, F.R.S., Keeper of Zoology, British Museum q
(Natural History).
Professor H. MaxwEtL Lerroy, Imperial College of Science and
Technology. a
The Hon. Sir Jonn Moat, M.D., Agent-General for Tasmania. o
Dr. R. Stewart MacDovaatt, Lecturer on Agricultural Entomology, — Bc.
Edinburgh University. iq
Sir Jonn MoFapyezan, Principal, Royal Veterinary College, Camden vag
Town.
Sir Parriox Manson, G.C.M.G., F.R.S., Late Medical Adviser to the
Colonial Office.
Sir Dante. Morris, K.C.M.@., Late Adviser to the Colonial Office “a
in Tropical Agriculture. ,
Professor R. NewsTeap, F.R.8., Dutton Memorial Professor of —
Medical Entomology, Liverpool University.
Professor G. H. F. Nurraut, F. R.8., Quick Professor of Protenoolaara™ F
Cambridge. f
Professor E. B. Poutton, F.BS., Hope Professor of Zoology, Oxford.
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Davip PRAIN, C.1.E., C.M.G., F.R.S., Directen
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Mr. H. J. Reap, C.B., C.M. G., Colonial Office.
The Honourable N. C. ROTHSCHILD.
Mr. Huau Scort, Gurator in Zoology, Museum of Zoology, Cambridge.
Dr. A. E. Sarpxey, F. B.8., Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge.
Sir Stewart STOCKMAN, Chief Veterinary Officer, Board of Agri %
culture.
Mr. F. V. TueosaLp, Vice-Principal, South Eastern Agricultural
College, Wye. a
Mr. J. A. C. Truuey, Foreign Office.
Mr. C. Warsurton, Zoolo gist to the Royal ApAnitoia, Society of a
England.
The Chief Entomologist i in each of the Self-governing Dominions _
is an ex officio member of the Committee. a
General Secretary. Seats a
Mr. A. C. C. Parxmison (Colonial Office). be a
Director and Lditor. aa
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Assistant Director. 1a:
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Mr. W. Norra. ; |
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B17
E. 8. Il metodo Lotrionte e le Api. [Bees and the Lotrionte control
of the olive fly.}—Riw. Agric., Parma, xx, no. 19, 8th May 1914,
p. 297.
In reply to an enquiry by the author, Professor Lotrionte declares
that careful experiments have proved conclusively that the poison
mixture used in the “ capannette ”’ [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 479]
does not attract bees, even if their hives are only a few yards distant.
Picarp (F.). Les insectes de la luzerne. [Pests of lucerne. |}—
Progrés Agric. Vitic., Montpellier, xxxi, no. 18, 8rd May 1914,
pp. 555-561, 1 pl.
In the South of France the habits of Hypera (Phytonomus)
variabilis are the same as in the United States [see this Review, Ser. A,
li, p. 294]. The injury it does is only inferior to that caused by Cola-
spidema atrum, which is usually a pest of the second crop, H. variabilis
being chiefly a pest of the first. The larval stage lasts about 50 to
60 days. Hibernation is probably due to dehydration rather than to
cold. Besides lucerne, certain vetches, melilot, etc., are the only
plants attacked. In France the following enemies keep this weevil
under control:—The predaceous mite, Pediculoides ventricosus, a
small Mymarid of the genus Anaphes, several Pteromalids,
Camidiella curculionis and Itoplectis masculator. Many larvae and
pupae are also destroyed by a fungus, Entomophthora sphaerosperma.
The larvae of Hypera mgrirostris and H. punctata attack
lucerne in the same manner, but to a less degree, owing to their
smaller numbers. Lucerne should be cut when oviposition is nearly
completed and sheep grazed on the fields for a fortnight afterwards,
many adults and larvae being destroyed thereby. Dusting with lime—
which dries up the larvae—has sometimes given good results. Lucerne
_ should not be grown for more than 8 consecutive years in much infested
localities. In spite of its name, the small weevil, Apion pisi, chiefly
attacks vetches and lucernes. The larvae live in the pods of the vetches,
where they destroy the seed, but on lucerne they live in the floral buds
before the flower is formed, and are therefore only injurious to plants
raised for seed. Though A. érifoli is often found on lucerne, little
is known of the cause of its presence there. Colaspidema atrum has
recently been studied by A. Lecaillon [see this Review, Ser. A, ii,
p- 203]. Hopperdozers are very useful before oviposition takes place,
and poultry, if allowed to run on the fields, will give further assistance.
If the first crop is cut early in spring the larvae will perish owing to
the lack of tender leaves. A useful control method is that of Solanet
[see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 58]. The injury caused by Subcoccinnella
24-punctata is often important, but never comparable to that of
H. variabilis or C.atrum: Control measures adopted for the latter are
also applicable here. The butterflies, Colias edusa and C. hyale, are
common in fields of clover, sainfoin, lucerne, etc. Owing to the green
colour of the larvae, agriculturists seldom notice them and rarely com-
plain of the damage which must be done by insects occurring in such
numbers. So far, only one parasite, Diglochis omnivora, a small Chalcid
which oviposits in the Colias egg, has been reported. The author has,
however, found the larva of Amblyteles homocerus in the Colias_cater-
| pillar, and the wasp, Eumenes arbustorum, is known to catry off this
(C76) Wt.P16/57. 1,500. 10.14. B.&F. Ltd. Gp.11/8. Je A
( WE
578
caterpillar as food forits own larvae. A fly, Agromyza nigripes, oviposits
under the epidermis of lucerne leaves. The larvae bore into the
parenchyma and a whitish spot appears on the leaf. The best control
measure is to cut the lucerne on the appearance of the spots before
the larvae abandon the plant to pupate in the soil, thus preventing
subsequent generations.
SEVERIN (H. H. P.) & Severin (H. C.). Behaviour of the Mediter-
ranean Fruit Fly (Ceratitis capitata, Wied.) towards Kerosene.—J1.
Ammal Behaviour, Boston, iv, no, 3, May-June 1914, pp. 223-227.
In experiments made to determine the effect of kerosene on
the Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Ceratitis capitata) in Honolulu, Hawaii,
pans 3} inches deep and 12 inches in diameter were fastened to the
lower branches of fruit trees. It was found that the colour of the
pan made no difference to the number of flies caught. The trees
experimented with were guava, navel-orange and Java plum; of
these the largest number of flies were caught in the pans on the Java
plum, and the smallest on the guava. The kerosene was found to
attract the males almost exclusively, the number of females trapped
being only about 3 per 1,000. x
FLETCHER (T. B.). Note on the Green Seale of Coffee (Lecanium
viride).—Coorg Gaz. Press, Mercara, 1st June 1914, 3 pp.
The green scale of coffee, Coccus viridis (Lecanium viride), is generally
found near the tips of branches, either clustered in masses along the
tender parts of the twigs or on the leaves. It damages the plant
by sucking the juices by means of its thread-like mouth-parts ; when
the scale is present in large numbers the drain on the plant juices is
considerable, and the plant may in severe cases be killed outright.
The green scale was introduced into Coorg a year ago and has spread
throughout North and South Coorg, and has hitherto only been found
on coffee. The young scale is able to move fairly freely, and dispersion
is aided by ants, which seek out the scales for the sake of the honey-
dew yielded by theinsect. When their excretion falls on leaves a black,
sooty fungus grows on it, and though this may be due to other
insects also, it serves as one of the means of recognising the presence
of scales.
The life-cycle of the scale has not been worked out in Coorg, but it
is probably quite short, a month or less. The females reproduce par-
thenogenetically, the male being unknown ; incubation occurs within
the body of the parent, and the increase is very rapid. No practical
means for the extermination of the pest have been devised ; the best
means of checking the spread consists of spraying the plants with a
contact insecticide, made as follows :—One pound of ordinary washing
soda is boiled in one gallon of water, and to the boiling solution are
added two pounds of finely powdered fir-tree rosin; the solution is
boiled, small quantities of cold water being added at intervals, until
the liquid (now about three gallons) becomes clear and thin, like
clear coffee. This is diluted to about one part of the rosin compound
to six of water, the dilution being made whilst the mixture is still hot.
The addition of soap makes the mixture more effective; for brushing,
Se” P
> =. .
579
sufficient soap must be added to give the requisite lather. In spray-
ing, the under surfaces of the leaves must be given special attention.
Brushing is probably equally efficient for killing the scales, but is much
slower ; itis therefore more suitable for small areas, asin the case of small
holdings where the owners do the work themselves and cannot afford
sprayers. Pruning the affected bushes and burning the prunings,
and also burning the scales on the bushes by means of a blow-lamp,
have been tried, but are not recommended. Treatment should be
carried out more than once, in order to destroy scales that escape the
first time. Further attention is being directed to the question of
the natural enemies of the green scale, which at present seems fairly
exempt. :
Morstatt (H.). Die Schadlinge der Baumwolle in Deutsch-Ostafrika.
[Cotton pests in German East Africa.}—Betheft zum Pflanzer,
Dar-es-Salaam, x, no. 1, 1914, 50 pp., 3 pls.
A descriptive list is given of the following insect-pests of cotton in
German Kast Africa :—
The winged swarms of Schistocerca peregrina, Oliv., have not been
troublesome up to now, and Zonocerus elegans, Thunb., has been
recorded once only, from Tabora, where masses of young hoppers
attacked the leaves from October to December. The latter locust is
of less importance, because it usually occurs only from October to
April, when cotton is not at its period of maximum growth, and more-
over the egg-clusters in the soil are mostly destroyed by cultivation.
Amongst the Coleopterous pests Popillia hilaris, Kraatz, is common
in Usambara, where it feeds on the cotton leaf; the wheat beetle,
Tenebrioides (Trogosita) mauretanicus, is found in the seed, as also is
the biscuit beetle, Laemophloeus pusillus, F., while the saw-toothed grain
beetle (Sclvanus surinamensis, ¥'.) occurs in imported seed. The lady-
birds, Epilachna similis, Thunb., E. matronula, Wse., and E. poly-
morpha, Gerst., occasionally injure the leaves, and Alesza striata, F.., is
also found on cotton, but is a usefulinsect, as it feeds on aphids. Apate
monachus, F., was noticed only once on Egyptian cotton at Bagamoyo
and a smaller beetle of the same family, often seen at Kilossa, only
occurred on dying plants. Kranzlin records a small brown Elaterid
as causing injury to young plants, while the Buprestid Sphenoptera
neglecta, Klug, which is closely related to S. gossypw, Kerr., and
native to German East Africa, has not yet been found injuring cotton,
though it does so in the Sudan. Mylabris bizonata, Gerst., feeds on
the leaves, and the numerous species of Chrysomelids only occasion-
ally increase so as to be economically important. According to
Kranzlin, Syagrus puncticollis, Lefévre, feeds by night on the stems
of quite young plants, causing them to give way at the injured spot;
it also attacks the leaves. The appearance of the beetle coincides
with that of the heavy rains, and development is believed to take
place in the soil. Captive individuals refused Upland cotton, offered
instead of Egyptian. Efficient control was obtained by collection and
the subsequent destruction of the insects in water to which some
petroleum had been added. A beetle attacking the enveloping leaves
of immature cotton bolls is believed to be Ootheca mutabilis, Sahlb.
Apion xanthostylum, Wagn., is a most dangerous cotton pest, damaging
(C76 ) a2
580
the entire plant. Zimmermann discovered it in October 1910, at
Morogoro, where it has since increased, but fortunately has not
spread to any extent and only occurs elsewhere at Amani. This weevil
bores into the green bolls and stems, where it oviposits. The larvae
excavate galleries and a chamber in which they pupate, and kill the
plants in severe cases. Another species, A. armipes, Wagn., found
in West Usambara, attacks the stem and branches, but apparently
not the bolls. The plants should be burnt when the crop has been
gathered, which should be done as early as possible. Alcides brevi-
rostris, Boh., is found in all districts and rings the stems, usually near
the ground. One portion of the ring is very much widened and the
egg is laid there. This ringing is done in May, or later, and the injury
becomes apparent about four months after sowing ; all infested stems
must be cut off beneath the ring and burned. Among other weevils,
Dicasticus gerstaeckeri, Fst., and Systates pollinosus, Gerst., are very
occasionally found on cotton ; Epipedosoma laticolle, Kolbe, occurred
in numbers on cotton on Kilimandjaro.
Lepidopterous cotton pests include the spiny boll worm, Haris
insulana, Boisd., which has not been reported recently except from
near Kilossa and Morogoro, where it has lately appeared in numbers.
Hibiscus esculentus and H. cannabinus should not be allowed to grow
near cotton, as they also are hosts of this species. Harias biplaga, Walk.
(plaga, Feld.) was found in a cotton fieldin Mombo, but nothing further
is known about it. The Egyptian cotton worm, Prodenia litura, F., is
found in Hast Africa, where the caterpillars are observed in the green
bolls; the caterpillars of Porthesia producta have been frequently noticed,
but do little injury to the leaves; Chaerocampa celerio, L., was once
observed in Mombo in May, its caterpillars appearing in numbers and
stripping the cotton plants bare; a small Saturniid caterpillar
destroyed about 10 acres of cotton in the Dar-es-Salaam district ;
Sylepta derogata, F. (Synclera multilinealis, Guené), has not been
much noticed of late years and does only slight injury; Ephesta
cautella, Walk. (E. cahiritella, Zell.), was found in cotton seed. The
pink boll worm, Gelechia gossypiella, Saund., is still the most dangerous
enemy of cotton in Hast Africa. Although no wild food-plants have
as yet been discovered in the colony, this insect appears to be native,
but may have been imported with foreign seed. Control measures
are the same as advised for Apion armipes. An undetermined species
of Gelechia has been observed by the author feeding on cotton leaves
in the centre and south of the colony. Pyroderces simplex, Wlsm..,
seems to occur in all districts, being sometimes more plentiful than
G. gossyptella. The author states that the larvae are not merely
rubbish-feeders, but do as much damage to the seed as do those of
Gelechia. Light-traps appear to be of some use in this case.
Setomorpha insectella, ¥., was found in old cotton seed.
Amongst the Rhynchota, eight species of Dysdercus are native to
the country, and four of these occur on cotton, viz., Dysdercus cardina-
lis, Gerst., D. fasciatus, Sign., D. nigrofasciatus, St., D. superstitiosus, F.
These bugs may be shaken down into a sheet and killed in water
containing petroleum, and the collection may be facilitated by the
use of baits, such as piles of cotton seed. Phonoctonus fasciatus,
P. de B., is a natural enemy, but has little value, especially as the
stainers are of only slight importance. The Lygaeid, Oxycarenus
y.
581
hyalinipenmis, Costa, is scarcely a pest, but it occurs in large numbers
in cotton which is being ginned, and the staining due to the crushed
insects may prove a source of loss. The Pentatomids, Calidea
apicalis, Schout., Hotea subfasciata, Westw., and Hotea sp., occur
in the colony, and the Coreid, Serinetha hexophthalma, Thunb.,
is occasionally found on cotton, while the Mirid, Helopeltis
bergrothi, Reuter, was noticed at Amani. Many species of JASSIDAE
occur on cotton, Chlorita facialis, Jac., being the species most frequently
caught in the Mombo light-trap trials. Direct control seems im-
practicable, but the brothers Pentzel state that these insects avoid
plants visited by ants, and advise the retention of a fallow strip along
the sides of a cotton field, which ants will occupy. The author believes
that Aphis sorghi, Theo., is the species responsible for the Mafuta
disease, which is usually without serious consequences to the crop.
An exception to this was noticed by the author in 1913 in the Kilwa
district, where it appears to have ruined the crops. Spraying with
nicotin-soap or petroleum emulsion seems to be the only method of
control. Alesia striata and Chilomenes lunata, F ., are natural enemies.
The CoccipaE observed in German East Africa on cotton are:
Pseudococcus (Dactylopius) citri, Risso, Pseudococcus (Phenacoccus)
obtusus, Ldgr., Pseudococcus filamentosus, Ckll., Hemichionaspis
(Pinnaspis) minor, Mask., Saissetia (Lecanium) nigra, Nietn., and
undetermined species of Eriococcus, Lecanium and Pulvinaria.
The author concludes byreferring to the disinfection of cotton seed, the
agents mentioned being carbon bisulphide, carbon tetrachloride, naph-
thalin, corrosive sublimate or seawater. The seed should be disinfected
as soon as it arrives at the buyer’s plantation and stored separately
from non-disinfected seed in a dry, airy place, not on the ground ;
carbon bisulphide or carbon tetrachloride are the best disinfectants,
and to protect the seed from future infestation 1 per cent. of naph-
thalin should be mixed thoroughly with it. Where it is impossible
to keep the store-rooms free from infected seed, disinfection may be
carried out immediately before sowing by immersing the seed in water
containing 1 per 1000 of corrosive sublimate, the mass being well
stirred. After half an hour the liquid should be strained off, and
the seed rinsed and planted without delay. Wooden containers must
be used, as alloys are formed if metal comes in contact with the
solution.
Smita (R. E.), Hunt (T. F.) & Nixon (W. H.). Spraying Walnut
trees for Blight and Aphis Control.—Cal. Umv. Agric. Expt. Sta.,
Berkeley, Circular no. 107, Oct. 1913, 8 pp. [Received 18th
Sept. 1914.]
In the experiments described in this circular, promising results in the
destruction of aphids were obtained and there is reason to believe that
blight may be controlled, to some extent, by the same means. The
best results were obtained by spraying the trees while in a dormant
condition, or just after the first growth was starting, with lime-sulphur
solution. The proportion used consisted of 1 gallon of commercial
lime-sulphur to 19 gallons of water. Twenty-five pounds of quick-
lime, slaked and strained, were also added in order to make the spray
more visible upon the trees. The problem of spraying large trees
582
quickly and economically was met by the use of high power and a
special nozzle (the M.A.C.), making it possible to cover the largest trees
completely from the ground. It is essential that the trees be covered
with the spray, from the trunks to the tips of the twigs. On an average,
34 gallons per tree are required for good-sized trees, and by having
experienced workmen and using large quantities the average cost per
large tree amounts to 2s. An average of 85 large trees per day was
sprayed by one outfit with four men (seven men can handle two
outfits). The results obtained, while not accurately measurable the
first year, seemed to do more than justify the cost in improved
condition and increased growth of the trees and nuts.
VaILE (R. §.). Notes on Walnut Aphis Control—WMthly. Bull. State
Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal., iii, no. 5, May 1914, pp.
221-223.
For several years past, Chromaphis wir it the walnut aphis,
has done considerable damage throughout southern California.
Very early in the season this pest becomes numerous on the leaves
and on the nuts as they are just setting. A large amount of honey-
dew is secreted, following which the sooty fungus coats the leaves and
fruit, choking, to a large extent, the respiration of the tree. The
leaves often droop and fall to the ground before the crop is half matured.
Control by the ladybird beetles, Hippodamia convergens and Olla
abdominalis has proved unsatisfactory, and is hardly to be recommended
as worthy of trial. Extensive spraying experiments against the
walnut blight showed that, although there was comparatively little
noticeable effect on the blight, there was a decided tendency to control
the walnut aphis [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 581-582]. The eggs
are usually laid singly in young buds, or in crevices on larger branches ;
they are occasionally found in groups of from threetoseven. In 1912,
careful inspection in the middle of February showed plenty of eggs,
but no evidence of stem-mothers ; the first stem-mothers were found on
5th March. In 1913, a very few stem-mothers were found as early as
15th February and no eggs were found later than 10th March. In
1914, the first stem-mothers were found on 6th March and eggs have
been found as late as 16th March.
Coap (B. R.). Feeding Habits of the Boll Weevil on Plants other than
Cotton.—J1. Agric. Research, Washington, D.C., ii, no. 3, June 1914,
pp. 235-245,
Experiments were carried out by the author in connection with
investigations on the biology of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis,
at Victoria, Texas, on the possibility of the boll-weevil being able to
breed in some of the native malvaceous plants. Various plants were
tried and the average longevity of the weevils on each observed. On
Sphaeralcea lindheimeri, the weevils fed readily, but deposited no
eggs ; the life of the weevil was short and it is unlikely that the insect
would ever become adapted to feeding on this plant. Weevils fed on
Callirrhoe involucrata and C. pedata and lived a comparatively long
time, but their chance of breeding was slight and only observed in rare
instances. From experiments made with.A. grandis and A. grandis var.
583
thurberiae on Hibiscus syriacus it was found that it was quite possible
for the insect to breed in the buds, and it seems probable that this
would not be unusual. Louisiana and Texas boll-weevils and the
Arizona Thurberia weevil were all tested, the conduct of the three
types in relation to feeding being practically the same ; all showed the
same preference for feeding first on the corolla and the stamens of the
flower, followed by the buds and then the fruit. The longevity of
weevils fed on Hibiscus was little short of that of those fed on cotton.
No weevils have been found breeding on plants other than cotton and
Thurberia under field conditions, except a single individual on Hibiscus
syriacus at Victoria, Texas, in June 1913.
Burkitt (I. H.). The Sirangoon Outbreak (1913) of Brachartona
catoxantha.—Gardens’ Bull., Singapore, i, no. 7, 20th June 1914,
pp. 207-208.
A severe outbreak of the coconut pest, Brachartona catoxantha, has
occurred in the coconut plantations about the head of the Sirangoon
river, near Singapore. These caterpillars also attacked the leaves of a
species of Calamis and the Areca palm in the affected area. The
degree of parasitism of the pupae due to a Tachinid and a Braconid
was only 4 percent. A circular was distributed among the plantation
owners asking them to burn the lower leaves of the palms on which
the caterpillars had pupated in large numbers. By this means and by
spraying, the moths were kept more or less in check, but it was evident
that they were spreading into previously unaffected areas. At this
stage, a fungus, new to science, was found attacking the moth and
with its aid the outbreak was stamped out. This fungus, which has
been named Botrytis necans, was distributed artificially by taking
strips of coconut leaves with dead caterpillars or pupae on them and
tying them to the leaves of trees where healthy caterpillars were feeding ;
the caterpillar pupates in a silken hammock under the leaf which it
has been eating, and if infected by the fungus, generally dies inside
the hammock, the spores coming to the outside in the form of dust ;
the fungus is therefore easily found, and there was no difficulty in
collecting the supplies required ; the distribution of the fungus was
probably greatly assisted by the wind.
KasarcoDE (R. §.). A Preliminary Account of the Coccidae of
Western India.—J1. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc., xxiii, no. 1, 30th June
1914, pp. 133-137.
A systematic account is given of the CoccrDAE of Western
India, which are not well known. Although Coccids are not
so obvious in Western India as in some other parts, they occur abun-
dantly on many fruit trees ; the mango tree alone is attacked by many
species, always associated with the Loranthus (mistletoe) parasite ;
they are also common on the fruit of the betelnut palm and on various
citrus fruits. Fruit culture is now increasing and the importance
of these pests will be more fully realised than has been the case hitherto.
Fifteen species of Diaspinae, six of Lecanwnae, four of Dactylopiinae,
one of Asterolecaniinae, and two of Monophlebinae are recorded.
584
Report of Horticultural Inspector, Chief Inspector of Fruit, ete.—Rept.
S. Australia Dept. Agric., 1912-13, Adelaide, 1914, pp. 42-52.
[Received 4th August, 1914. ]
This report includes those of the Fruit and Orchard Inspectors of
the various districts in the State. The Government fumigation plant
now operates against citrus red scale, Chrysomphalus (Aspidiotus)
auranti, at the owner’s cost, upon neglect of the inspector’s notice
to disinfect. Besides citrus trees in South Australia the red scale
has been found on holly (Ilex), Huonymus, sweet bay (Laurus nobilis),
Coprosma lucida, roses, carob (Ceratonia siliqua), grapevines (Vitis
vinifera), and common fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). None of these
plants, with the exception of Ilex and Huonymus, are, however, believed
to be permanent hosts, as in all cases where the scale has been found
on them, citrus trees were growing or had recently existed. Vine-
growers successfully protested against the landing at Port Adelaide
of several shipments of potatoes and onions grown in Italian vineyards,
owing to the danger of conveying Phyllozera. Consignments of Fiji
bananas were fumigated owing to their being infested with what was
believed to be a species of Aspidiotus; fruit-fly larvae were not so
numerous as usual on bananas from Queensland.
No traces of red scale, C. auranti (Aspidiotus coccineus), have yet
been found in the south-eastern district, where the more common pests.
of the year were Cydia (Carpocapsa) pomonella, Schizoneura lani-
gera,) Tetranychus telarvus, Otiorrhynchus cribricollis, Lepidosaphes
ulmi (Mytilaspis pomorum), Phthorimaea operculella (Lita solanella)
and Heterodera radicicola, the last two attacking potatoes. Additional
pests found in the southern district included aphis, red spider (Bryobia),
harlequin bugs, coon bugs, and Asprdiotus ostreaeformis. In the
north-eastern district, root-borers, Otiorrhynchus and red _ spider
(Bryobia) were all in evidence. The Otiorrhynchus weevils were trapped
in a trough placed on the ground round the stem of the tree and filled
with oil, while red oil or crude oil emulsion applied in winter was
effective against Bryobia. A house to house visitation in the Adelaide
Plains district showed Chrysomphalus aurantu to have taken a very
great hold on the citrus trees, as well as on other shrubs, and fumigation
appears to be the only reliable remedy against it; arsenate of lead was
found to be fairly successful against coding moth and Otiorrhynchus.
In the northern district the pear and cherry slug (Selandria
cerast) [probably Eriocampoides lamacina, Retz.] was the only new
pest, and a prompt and thorough application of arsenate of lead con-
trolled it. Woolly aphis and red spider were controlled by red oils
in winter, but injections of carbon bisulphide into the soil were not
satisfactory against the apple root-borer, a weevil nearly allied to
Leptops hoper, for the control of which arsenical sprays and hand-
picking are now relied upon. The cottony-cushion scale (Icerya
purchast) was found on a few citrus trees.
Beat (F. E. L.) The American Thrushes valuable Bird Neighbours.—
Yearbook U.S. Dept. Agric., 1913, Washington, 1914, pp. 135-142,
1 plate.
A study of the diet of birds of the thrush family justifies the pro-
tection of them, and shows that they are useful to farmers in checking
585
the ravages of harmful insects. Although they eat fruit and berries
they prefer animal food, particularly insects, including the following
important pests :—Grasshoppers, ants, potato beetle (Leptinotarsa
decemlineata), plum curculio (Conotrachelus nenuphar), clover-leaf
weevil, may beetle (Lachnosterna sp.), corn weevil (Calandra sp.),
alfalfa weevil, army worm, cutworms, codling moth (Cydia pomonella),
cabbage worm, chinch bug (Blissus leucoptera), black olive scale
(Sazssetia oleae), etc. If they become too numerous they are obliged
to seek for food in the orchards and are destructive to fruit, but in this
case they are best kept off with scarecrows and should not be killed.
CAMPBELL (R. E.). A new Coccid infesting Citrus Trees in California.
—Entom. News, Philadelphia, xxv, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 222-224.
This new species, which the author proposes to call Coccus citricola,
was first identified as C. longulus, Doug., and later as C. elongatus,
Sign. It occurs in various parts of California, where it is probable
that in the past it has been confused with C. hesperidum, L. C.
citricola has hitherto been only found on the leaves and twigs of citrus
trees. The young scales settle mostly on the leaves and when about
half-grown migrate to the small twigs. No scales have been found
on twigs larger than one-half inch in diameter, and the infestations are
largely confined to the lower half of the tree. They are usually
abundant, and are arranged on the twigs in a curiously imbricated
and quite characteristic manner.
Draco (A.). Provvedimenti contro la bianca-rossa. [Measures against
Chrysomphalus dictyospermi.|}—Giorn. Agric. Merid., Messina,
vii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 77-81.
The author refers to the law of the 26th June 1913, dealing with
plant pest control, one of the clauses of which provides that a state
subsidy of up to 50 per cent. of the cost may be granted in cases where
universal control is required. Another clause gives the authorities
power to compel agriculturists to form an association where the lack
of such an association involves danger to agricultural interests.
F, P. Contro il lecanio dell’olivo e degli agrumi. [Against the olive
and citrus scale, Sassetia oleae, Bern.|}—Giorn. Agric. Merid.,
Messina, vii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 89-90.
Besides causing direct injury, Saissetia (Lecanium) oleae favours
the sooty fungus, and is thus doubly harmful. To ascertain the correct
date for beginning control, Martelli advises that small pieces of twigs
be cut from badly infested trees and placed under a glass tumbler
on a sheet of white paper. The contents are carefully watched daily,
and when a number of small reddish insects are observed at the top or
on the side nearest the light, spraying should begin with the same lime-
sulphur as that used against Chrysomphalus dictyosperm.
586
ZsCHOKKE (A.). Die Bekampfung des Heu- und Sauerwurmes mit
Nikotinseifenbriihen. [Control of the vine moth with nicotin-
we mixture.}—Wembau der Rheinpfalz, Neustadt a. Hdt., ui,
. 9, Ist May 1914, pp. 95-100.
Nicotin was introduced as a control into the Palatinate 10 years
after the present vine moth period began. The French “ nicotine
titrée ’”’ was originally used—six years ago—but the quantity available
proved insufficient; American tobacco was imported and found
superior to French, Alsatian, or crude nicotin. Loss of bloom and
retardation of ripening are among the disadvantages of nicotin-soap.
The latter defect 1s due to the soap, and this ingredient has been
gradually reduced to one-sixth of the amount employed in 1910 and
the quality selected is as neutral as possible. In consequence it is
hoped that ripening will be normal in 1914. The vine-growers’
association 1s compounding the concentrated nicotin-soap mixture
to be used in 1914. Twenty gallons of diluted spray will contain 44 oz.
of 10 per cent. nicotin (produced by the Austrian Régie) and 16 oz.
of soap, and the requisite quantity of concentrated mixture to produce
this will cost about 2s. 6d., tins included. Over 6,000 gals. of mixture
have been prepared, the members of the association alone taking over
4,600 gals. Growers must carefully watch for the appearance of the
moths in their particular locality, as the correct date for spraying is of
the highest importance. The best results can only be obtained if
both generations are sprayed for. Many attempts have been made
to combine treatment against Peronospora with that against the vine
moth, and they have usually failed because the soap combines with
the excess of lime in the Bordeaux mixture. The author thinks that
if the above nicotin-soap mixture be made up with a weak Bordeaux
mixture the result will be satisfactory, as both soap and hme will
only be present in small quantities. There is no reason to fear any
bad flavour in the wine made from nicotin-sprayed grapes. This
defect was due to the large quantity of soap formerly used and should
no longer be possible. The author considers nicotin-soap to be the
best of the chemical controls against the vine moth, but growers must
remember that winter-control against the pupae is still the most
important measure of all.
Pp. F. Zur Reblausbekampfung. [Phylloxera control. ]|—Luaxemburger
Weinztg., Grevenmacher, ii, no. 9, Ist May 1914, pp. 182-134.
Figures are given regarding the spread of Phylloxera in the neigh-
bourhood of Metz. From 1876 to 1904—a period of 28 years—about
322 acres (including the safety belts) were destroyed. In 1904, control
was abandoned, and in the nine years up to 1913 about 315 acres were
destroyed, while the vines in about 352 acres are seriously affected.
Luxemburg vine-growers must continue to practice control if similar
disastrous results are to be avoided. In 1907, the infested stocks in
the Grand Duchy were 3,245, and in the six years up to 1913 this
number has only increased to 5,596, so that control is thought to be
justified. Although the author recognises the value of American
stocks, he points out that their introduction involves difficulties greater
than those which occur at present.
587
Martin (J. B.) Utilitédu papillonnage contre la Cochylis et l’Eudémis.
Une chasse intéressante. [The utility of moth destruction in the
control of Clysia and Polychrosis.}—Rev. Vitic., Paris, xhi,
no. 1064, 7th May 1914, pp. 505-508.
During 1910 and 1913 the Touraine vine-growers suffered a loss of
about £2,000,000 through Clysia and Polychrosis. The outbreak in
September 1913 was so severe and unexpected that only a few vine-
growers succeeded in saving their vintage, among them M. Léger,
in Chinonais, who adopted the following measures :—On the first
moths appearing in May, steps were taken to capture them. Two
rows of vines were dealt with by three men, one placed between the
rows and the other two on either side of them. The most suitable
times are from about 6 p.m. to nightfall and at daybreak, just after
the dew has fallen. The vines are lightly shaken and the moths
watched as they fly away, and the spot where they alight being noted,
they are easily crushed between the hands as they rise again. In one
vineyard of about 24 acres about 100 were killed in the middle of May
and 517 in another of about 64 acres. The larvae were also collected
by hand during the second half of June, about 11,000 being thus
destroyed. A few moths of the second generation appeared on the
3rd July, but only became numerous on the 16th, when work was
started. In the smaller vineyard 311 moths of the second generation
were killed and 1,976 in the larger. On the 8th of August injury to
the grapes was noticed and injured fruit were picked on the 20th.
Calculations show that about 416,000 larvae were destroyed in this
way in the red vines. In the case of white vines the injured grapes
are picked at vintage time, a quantity equivalent to 34 casks of wine
being removed on the 23rd September. The above work shows that
less eggs are laid by the first than by the second generation. The
ratio between the moths of the first and second generation in the two
vineyards being as 1: 3°11 and 1:3°8 respectively. The bunches of
grapes were also dusted with lime and sulphur. Arsenicals had not,
however, been used against the first generation, as the outbreak was
unexpected. M. Léger considers that control of all stages of Clysia
is absolutely necessary. It cost him about £7 in extra labour and
the loss of five casks of wine, but he saved two-thirds of his vintage,
amounting to about 100 casks of wine. Those of his neighbours who
had neglected control lost practically everything.
Matet (R.). Les Bouillies cupriques. [Copper sprays. ]—Rev. Votic.,
Paris, xli, no. 1064, 7th May 1914, pp. 520-522.
The following data are given in an article on copper sprays for
combating the black-rot disease. Copper sulphate, which is usually
employed in making up the solutions, should be 98-99 per cent. pure,
equivalent to 25 per cent. of pure copper. When buying a commercial
solution of which the copper percentage is given, it will be sufficient
to multiply that figure by 4 in order to obtain the percentage of copper
sulphate. The latter chemical is often adulterated with iron sulphate,
the presence of which may be readily detected by adding some
ammonia, iron oxide being formed. Copper acetates (verdigris)
contain 31-34 per cent. of pure copper and are also used in compound-
ing sprays. The spray solutions are neutralised—and rendered
588
adhesive to some extent—by an addition of ‘‘ fat” lime or sodium
carbonate. The latter must be 90 per cent. pure. An excess of these
substances produces an alkaline spray solution. In practice, copper
sulphate is neutralised by one-quarter of its weight of quicklime or
one-half of sodium carbonate, but these proportions vary somewhat.
Additional adhesive qualities are obtained by using gelatin, casein,
molasses, linseed oil, soap, resin, petroleum and sapindus,
Gay (A.). L’Altise (Pucerotte, puce de la vigne, bleuette). [The vine
flea-beetle, Haltica ampelophaga.|—Rev. Vitic., Paris, xli, no. 1064,
7th May 1914, pp. 522-523.
The contro] of Haltica is furthered if the hibernating adults are
dealt with by clearing the vineyard of all natural refuges and replacing
them by shelter traps during the month of August. Control is easily
effected if measures be universally taken on the first appearance of
the insects.
Datmasso (G.). Nuovi e pit vasti orrizzonti della patologia vegetale.
[New and vaster boundaries of plant pathology.}—Ri. Vutie.,
Enol. Agrar., Conegliano, xx, no. 10, 15th May 1914, pp. 228-231.
Besides utilising entomophagous insects in the control of phyto-
phagous insect-pests, the latter themselves may occasionally be
employed for this purpose. The following case has been instanced
by Vuillet [see this Review, Ser. A, 11, p. 345.]:—Aphis sorghi, Theo.,
which sometimes causes much damage to crops in West Africa, is
combated by predatory Coccinellids, which also attack another Aphid,
Siphonophora leptadeniae, Vuill., found on Leptadenia lancifera, a
wild plant growing near the sorghum fields. This species is not
injurious to sorghum or other cultivated plants, and the increase of
Siphonophora will naturally benefit the Coccinellid enemies of
A. sorght. One of the principal controls against the latter is the des-
truction of the sorghum stubble left after harvesting, a measure which,
unfortunately, destroys the parasites. This disadvantage may be
avoided by planting some Leptadenia infested by Siphonophora near
the fields as an attraction for the Coccinellids [see this Review, Ser. A,
ii, p. 396.] Matters are more complicated in the case of the vine moth,
Polychrosis botrana. One of its enemies is a small Hymenopteron,
Trichogramma (Oophthora) semblidis, Aur., which parasitises its eggs
and also those of Barathra (Mamestra) brassicae, L., so common on
cabbages. Unfortunately, cabbages also harbour Pvreris brassicae
and Pieris occasionally favours the development of the vine moth.
P. brassicae is parasitised by Apanteles glomeratus and Anilasta
ebenina and these, in turn, are parasitised by Dzbrachys affinis.
Dibrachys plays a double role in relation to Polychrosis botrana.
As a primary parasite of Polychrosis it is beneficial, but itis also a
parasite of such enemies of the vine moth as Phytomyptera
nitidiventris, and is, therefore, injurious. For this reason it is not
always advisable to plant cabbages among the vines. Vuillet has
shown that calculation furnishes the key to a complex problem such
as is presented by these insects. It is first necessary to determine the
589
highest percentage of parasitisation for each species concerned, which
is a host, the observation being made on 100 individuals derived from
the same batch of eggs. Once this difficult determination has been
made, a simple calculation shows which insects should be encouraged
for control purposes.
Freytaup (J.). La mortalité des chrysalides de Cochylis et d’Eudémis
pendant Vhiver. [Winter mortality among Clysia and Polychrosis
pupae. }—Rev. Vitrc., xli, no. 1066, 21st May 1914, pp. 573-575.
The author briefly discusses the natural enemies of Clysia and
Polychrosis and tabulates the results of a laboratory investigation of
the mortality among the latter. Batches of 100 to 300 pupae were
collected at five different localities and the following figures give the
proportions per 100 of dead Polychrosis, viz. :—87:-1—90:1—75:0—
93°2—85'7. The causes of death were :—Fungi, 57-°9—59-8—48:2—
475—50°0; Ichneumons, 21'8—19:0—13:1—16-9—29'5; predatory
enemies, 1:°3—8-:1—5:0—20°3—2°7 ; various enemies, 6°1—3:2—8:7—
85—3'5. This shows the mortality to have been severe during the
winter of 1913-1914, more so than in the last few years. Fungi were
the most active agents owing to the continued heavy rains in autumn.
The frosts do not appear to have injured the hibernating pupae [see
this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 301], but their enemies which are active in
winter have suffered fromthem. For instance, the larvae of Malachius,
abundant during the preceding winter and at the beginning of that of
1913-1914, were rare in March 1914. In spite of the heavy mortality
shown above, preparations must be made for control, as only a few
moths of the first generation are required to produce numerous larvae
in June and August.
ScHAEFER (A.). Ueber Pflanzenschutzmittel. [Materials for plant
protection.|—Der Obstziichter, no. 6, 1914. Reprint, 3 pp.
[Received 24th June 1914.]
The author disputes the efficiency of the so-called universal controls
against fungoid diseases and insect pests. Remedies advertised for
use against individual pests should only be used if tested and approved
by a competent authority. A case is referred to where a product,
having been tested and found useless, was then advertised by the
maker as “ officially tested.”’ A third class comprises such products
as ‘‘ carbolineum ” and “ bird-lime.”” These names are often a cloak
for quite useless substances. A brand of bird-lime which had given
good results up to a certain time, eventually proved quite unattractive
though still retaining its adhesive character. As regards carbolineum,
it would appear that any waste product of the tar industries is liable
to be sold under this name. A further class includes remedies of
which the active components are either stated by the maker or are
implied by the name, such as lime-sulphur mixture. When purchasing
these it is necessary to ascertain whether the maker guarantees a
certain percentage of the active ingredients, and an independent test
is also advisable, as a substance indicated in the name may sometimes
be entirely absent. Last of all come those preparations which have
590
been on the market for several years and are being constantly tested
by competent authorities. These may be expected to give results
indicated in the carefully worded official certificates, but not necessarily
those claimed in the advertisements.
Wau. (B.). Die Fritfliege. [The frit fly.)—Mutteilung der k.k.
Pflanzenschuizstation in Wien, n.d., 3 pp. [Received 24th June
1914.]
Oscinis frit, L., usually occurs in meadow grass and only migrates
to wheat when its numbers increase considerably. Control measures
should endeavour to prevent the spring and autumn generations from
finding young wheat on which to oviposit. The injury caused by
Oscims frit closely resembles that produced by Hylemyia coarctata,
L., and microscopic examination of the larvae is necessary to deter-
mine the identity of the pest concerned. As Hylemyia also occurs
in Austria and requiresa control totally different from that applicable
to Oscinis, such a determination is indispensable.
Futmex (L.). Die gelbe Stachelbeer—Blattwespe. [The yellow goose-
berry saw-fly. |}—Der Obstztichter, no. 6,1914. Reprint, 4 pp., 2 figs.
[Received 24th June 1914.]
The serious injury caused by the larvae of the yellow gooseberry
saw-fly (Péeronus ribesiz) renders it very necessary that the first signs.
of attack be noted and instantly acted on. The eggs are laid in April
on the underside of the leaves and in a few days the green, dark-
headed larvae hatch and eat the foliage. At the end of three or four |
weeks they enter the soil and spin a cocoon. The second generation ~
appears in June and July and the resultant larvae do less, though by
no means unimportant, damage, and may also attack currants. A
third generation sometimes occurs in the latesummer. The last larvae
hibernate at some depth in the soil and give rise to the adults which
appear in spring. Wood-ashes are an efficient control if strewn over
the bushes while they are still damp with dew, provided this be done
when the attack commences. Lime-copper spray also deters the
larvae from feeding. Tests made with barium chloride have been very
satisfactory ; a two per cent. aqueous solution of this was successful
in preventing injury. The bushes were sprayed once, either late in
April or early in May. The foliage must be thoroughly wetted and
the jet directed into the interior of thick bushes. Commercial barium
chloride costs about 24d. per lb., dissolves in cold water, and does not
deteriorate in solution. It is poisonous, and should be carefully
stored, as it strongly resembles ordinary salt in appearance. Spraying
immediately before the fruits ripen is inadvisable, though any traces
of the poison are easily washed off. To prevent a recurrence of the
pest, 3 or 4 inches of the soil may be dug up and burned after the larvae:
have begun to hibernate. Quicklime may also be dug in in autumn,
and if poultry be allowed to run among the bushes many larvae will
be destroyed.
Sa ae a a
591
Gownvey (C. C.). Annual Report of the Entomologist.—Ann. Rept.
Uganda Dept. Agric. for the year ended 31st March 1914, Kampala,
1914, pp. 36-58. [Received 12th Sept. 1914.]
During 1913, Stephanoderes coffeae, Haged., was extremely numerous,
and was found to attack stored coffee berries as well as those on the
trees ; the author reproduces his article on Dirphya princeps, Jord.,
[see this Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 275-276.] The Bostrychid coffee
borers, Apate zndistincta, Murr., and A. monacha, F., differ from D.
princeps in that they always burrow upwards, and more than one
insect may be found in one burrow ; the frass near the base of the trees
indicates the presence of these borers, against which carbon bisulphide
or carbon tetrachloride are of little use, though benzene has given good
results. Two or three pieces of cotton wool soaked in benzene should
be introduced loosely into the tunnel, after the frass has been removed
from the orifice, which should then be sealed with plaster of Paris.
The larvae of Parasa sp. and Metadrepana glauca, Hmp., feed on
coffee leaves, and the best insecticide against these caterpillars is
chromate of lead (3 lb. in 100 gallons of water). Crickets (Gryllotalpa
africana, P. de B., and Gryllus bimaculatus, de G.) confine their attacks
to the nurseries and young plants [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 59.]
Besides three undetermined species, the CoccIDAE at present known
to attack coffee in Uganda are :—Pseudococcus (Dactylopius) citri,
Risso, Pulvinaria psidiu, Mask., Ceroplastes ceriferus, And., C. galeatus,
Newst., C. vinsonioides, Newst., Lecanium africanum, Newst., Coccus
(L.) viridis, Green, Stictococcus gowdeyi, Newst., and Selanaspidus
articulatus, Morg. L. africanum probably is the only one of which coffee
is the sole food-plant. Experiments in the use of kerosene oil as a bait
for the Mediterranean fruit-fly (Ceratitis capitata, Wied.) and also the
cacao fruit-fly (C. punctata) were not successful, the oil evaporating
too soon and the proportion of females to males attracted being very
small; the fly was as prevalent as during the previous year. Cut-
worms were also troublesome, but they are usually to be found about
four inches from the stem and not deeper than three, and a systematic
search for them is preferable to the use of poisoned baits.
Cotton was attacked by the spiny bollworm, Earzas insulana, Boisd.,
which lays its eggs preferably on the bolls and particularly in the grooves
near the apex. These are laid singly after dusk, and a moth kept
under observation in the field laid 210 eggs in five consecutive nights,
decreasing from 87 on the first to 7 on the fifth night, but it is probable
that the egg-laying period may extend over a much longer time. The
young larvae bore into the bollsnear the base, and their presence may
be detected by the excrement exuding from the hole they make ;
they sometimes also bore into terminal buds. The moths are
nocturnal in habit, hiding during the day between the involucre and
the boll. Four experiments show the length of the incubation period
to be from 4 to 6 days, of the larval from 14 to 15 days, and of the
pupal stage from 10 to 14 days; there are several generations during
aseason. The loss caused by this bollworm is accentuated by bacterial
action, induced by the presence of excrement, which sets up in the
boll, and by the larval-borings which allow of the entrance of the
spores of saprophytic fungi. The Malvaceae are the only known food-
plants of Z. insulana, and as traps, rows of Hibiscus esculentus should
592
be grown at intervals throughout the field, and destroyed when con-
taining larvae. All infested parts of the plant should be destroyed
as well as uncultivated malvaceous plants, for which a search should
be made in the vicinity of the cotton field. Three NitipuLmDagz,
Carpophilus mutillatus, Erich., C. binotatus, Murr., and C. luridus,
Murr., feed upon the decaying tissues in the bores of the bollworms.
The four cotton stainers recorded are Dysdercus migrofasciatus, Stal,
D. pretiosus, Dist., Oxycarenus hyalinipenms, Costa, and O. gossypinus,
Dist. The leaf-footed plant bug, Leptoglossus membranaceus, F.,
attacks the seed of cotton, but clean cultivation and the destruction
of the uncultivated food-plants (three species of Cucurbitaceae) in the
vicinity of the cotton plots should prevent damage. Of the six
CoccINELLIDAE found preying on Aphis gossypii, Glov., the following
are recorded :—Chilomenes lunata, F., Solanophila bosci, Ws.,
Epilachna chrysomelina, F, var., Chilocorus angolensis, Cr. A small
swarm of Zonocerus variegatus, L., on cotton was easily checked by
using Paris green applied in a powder.
Few reports were received of damage by the cacao beetle (Adoretus
hirtellus, Castn.), while the whale-oil soap treatment controlled Toxo-
ptera theobromae, Schout. Stectococcus dimorphus, Newst., and Pseudo-
coccus (Dactylopius) sp. are the only two Coccids known to attack
cacao in Uganda. Gryllus gracilipes, Sauss., is very similar in its
habits to G. bimaculatus, already referred to as attacking coffee, and
these two species as well as Giryllotalpa africana are recorded as
attacking cacao. A millipede of the genus Odontopyge attacked
freshly planted cacao beans and very young seedlings; the beans
should be soaked in a solution of corrosive sublimate (1: 1,000) for
one hour as a preventive.
Among rubber pests the larvae of Gilyphodes ocellata, Hmp., eat
tips and margins of the leaves of Funtumia elastica and F. latifolia
and pupate within the rolled leaf margins. Pulvinaria psidui, Mask.,
attacks F. elastica, and Chionasyis funtumiae, Newst., F. latifolia,
while two other undetermined scale-insects attack Ceara and Para
rubber. Xyleborus confusus, Erich., X. affinis, Erich., and X. cameru-
nus, Haged., attack Para rubber trees at the tapping cicatrices, but
may be kept away by painting the trunk with coal tar.
A list is given of the insects which were of economic importance
during the year, together with the plants attacked.
The amount of Anaphe silk exported during 1913-14 was about
12 tons, but this figure is not indicative of the growth of the industry.
Leu (A.). La malattia del gelso e il suo rimedio (Diasys e Pros-
paltella). [The disease of the mulberry tree and its remedy. }—
Consighere dell Agricoltore, Turin, ii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 151-157,
7 figs.
This is a popular account of the infestation of mulberries by Aulacaspis
(Diaspis) pentagona and its control by Prospaltella berleser [see this
Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 441 and 526].
593
MriaTELLo (H.). La Esparraguera, su cultivo y explotacion. [The culti-
_ vation and working of asparagus.|—Bol. Minist. Agric., Buenos
Avres, xvii, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 530-620, 81 figs., 1 pl.
This paper describes the cultivation of asparagus in the Argentine
Republic and contains a bibliography of 25 works. An account is given
of the principal European insect enemies :—the asparagus beetle, Crio-
ceris asparagi; the asparagus fly, Platyparea poeciloptera [see this
Review, Ser. A, ul, p. 403]; the mole-cricket, Gryllotalpa vulgaris;
and the white grub, Melolontha melolontha.
Como combatir la hormiga colorada. [How to combat the red ant.]—
Gaceta Rural, Buenos Aires, vii, no. 82, May 1914, p. 861.
One method of combating red ants consists in pouring a couple
of spoonfuls of carbon bisulphide down the holes in their nests into
which a lighted match is thrown from a distance. Immediately after
the explosion all holes from which smoke issues are sealed. As an
alternative, cyanide of potassium may be placed in the holes or in
paths in dry weather.
Crossy (C. R.) & Lronarp (M. D.). An Egg-parasite of the Tarnished
Plant-Bug, Lygus pratensis, L.—Canadian Entomologist, London,
Ont., xlvi, no. 5, May 1914, pp. 181-182.
The authors describe a Hymenopterous parasite, Anagrus ovyentatus,
sp. n., which they have reared from eggs of the tarnished plant-bug,
Lygus pratensis, found on the flower-heads of the daisy flea-bane
(Erigeron ramosus).
Termites in Vineyards near Bordeaux.—Bull. Soc. Nat. Acclimat., Paris,
lxi, no. 9, Ist May 1914, pp. 301-304.
Termites are reported from some localities near Bordeaux, and
though no serious injury to the vines is probable from the species con-
cerned, yet precautionary measures are advised. Regarding natural
control, M. Riviére expressed the view that perhaps too much is
expected from entomophagous insects in the fight against pests, and
cited many failures in this direction—especially the hoped-for destruc-
tion of Haltica by Perilitus brevicollis.
La nicotina en agricultura. [Nicotin in agriculture.}—Rev. Inst. Agric.
Catalan S. Isidro, Barcelona, \xiii, no. 9, 5th May 1914,
pp. 182-135.
This article is a popular account of the nature, composition and
properties of nicotin and gives the formulae for the sprays required
for various pests together with the appropriate modes of application.
(C76) B
594
Mesures concernant l’entrée des végétaux en Algérie. [Measures.
relating to the importation of plants into Algeria.}—Moniteur
@Hortec., Paris, xxxvui, no. 9, 10th May 1914, pp. 97-98.
A decree signed by the President of the French Republic on the 18th
April 1914, forbids the general importation into Algeria of plants.
in a ligneous state (other than the vine and resinous species), palms.
(rooted or not rooted) and their fresh débris. This applies to shipments.
coming from foreign countries or from the French departments of
Alps-Maritimes, Var, Bouches-du-Rhéne, Gard, Heérault, Aude,
Pyrénées-Orientales and Corsica. Such shipments must be entered
at certain points to be subsequently specified by the Governor-General
of Algeria. On arrival disinfection is obligatory, except where a
satisfactory certificate from the French Ministry of Agriculture.
accompanies the goods and the latter are seen to be non-infested.
Plants in a ligneous or herbaceous state will be admitted with the:
surrounding soil if they have been grown in pots in French establish-
ments on the lists drawn up by the Ministry of Agriculture in accordance:
with Article 9, paragraph 6, of the International Convention of Berne.
In the case of foreign plants, a special consular certificate must be
obtained from the French Consul and exchanged for a permit from the.
Governor-General of Algeria before the goods leave the exporting
country.
Nort (P.). Les ennemis des jacinthes. [Hyacinth pests.}—Moniteur
@ Hortic., Paris, xxxviii, no. 9, 10th May 1914, p. 104.
The known pests of hyacinths are stated to include the Acarid,.
Cepophagus echinopus and the Nematodes Tylenchus devastatriz,
Kuhn, and Tylenchus hyacinthi, besides fungoid and bacterial diseases.
MANCHERON (P.). La lutte contre les Criquets dans la Commune Mixte.
du Djebel Nador. [Locust control in the Mixed Commune
of Djebel Nador.}—Rev. Agric. Vitic. Afr. Nord, Algiers, iu,
no. 114, 16th May 1914, pp. 460-461.
The following information regarding locust control in Djebel Nador,
has been supplied by M. Maurice Blanc. For about three weeks.
locusts have been hatching out along a front of some 60 miles, from
7,000 to 10,000 acres being infested. A defence syndicate has been
formed, including both European and Native agriculturists. The.
former pay a contribution of 1d. per acre sown and the latter one of
20d. per plough, a government subsidy being added. About 100:
defence stations have been organised, the labour being mainly native.
The following procedure is adopted : Zinc plates are used to surround
the locusts and stop their advance and lead them to trenches where:
cresyl is poured on them. Long pieces of cloth are spread out on the:
ground on to which the locusts are driven. When a sufficient number
have accumulated, the cloth is folded and the locusts are poured into
sacks and crushed. So far, over 80 tons have been secured in this.
way, which the syndicate has paid for at the rate of about £4 per ton.
Another method consists of making a semi-circle of alfa grass into
which the locusts are driven, the grass being then set on fire. As.
the Arabs understand the danger which menaces their crops, it is.
hoped to effect control to a considerable degree.
595
JAMETEL (V.). Moyens de destruction des Courtiliéres ou Taupes-
Grillons. [The destruction of mole-crickets. |—Moniteur d Hortic.
Paris, xxxviii, no. 10, 25th May 1914, pp. 119-120.
To protect garden beds from mole-crickets, they may be enclosed
with 4-inch boards, half-buried, with gaps at intervals, in which pots,
6 to 8 inches in diameter, are sunk level with the soil. These may be
empty or filled with water or flour. To keep these pests away from
pot beds, clinkers should be spread round or beneath them. The
presence of a nest is usually indicated by a small mound of worked
earth, beneath which it will be found at a depth of about 6 inches.
The galleries may be flooded, or soapy water, petroleum, carbon
bisulphide, etc., poured into them. Before making sowings in infested
beds, they may be covered with cooked grains of maize, sprinkled
with arsenious acid and raked over with earth. Napthalene crystals
drive away mole-crickets, but do not kill them. The author also
mentions traps [see this Review, Ser. A, i, p. 496] and insists that no
method is really efficient unless continuously persevered in, when
success should be attained in two or three years.
MancHeron (P.). Un Nouveau Traitemént du Phylloxera. [A new
Phylloxera cure.}—Rev. Agric. Vitic. Afr. Nord, Algiers, xii,
no. 116, 30th May 1914, pp. 511-512.
The author is informed that absolutely conclusive tests against
Phylloxera have been made with a special product, a sample of which
has been given to him by the inventor. The procedure is exceedingly
simple. A hollow is made round the stock and the substance placed
therein. As much water as possible is poured in so as to soak the soil
around the roots with the active principles contained in the remedy.
It is said that dying vines which were thus treated recovered their
vigour in two years, and that vines treated about eight years ago
may be seen flourishing in the midst of re-planted vines. The cost
is said to be about 5d. or 6d. per vine. The author is about to make
some tests himself. The disadvantages of carbon bisulphide do not
occur with this remedy, which appears to confer a lasting immunity
from infestation.
BavER (H.). Vogelschutz, Obstbau und Gespinstmotte. [Bird protec-
tion, fruit-growing, and Hyponomeuta.|—Entom. Zeitschr., Frank-
furt a. M., xxviii, no. 9, 30th May 1914, pp. 47-48.
The author states that hedges planted for bird protection will not
prove a danger to fruit-growing even if composed of plants attractive
to Hyponomeuta. The latter will always be sufficiently controlled
by parasites and birds.
McIuwatns (R.). Some Citrus Growing Experiences in Rhodesia. —
Rhodesia Agric. Jl., Salisbury, xi, no. 5, June 1914, pp. 703-
709, 3 pls.
Citrus trees in Rhodesia are comparatively free from injurious
insects and diseases, although in some districts the red scale is very
destructive. Fumigation is effective, but complete eradication cannot
(C76) B2
596
be hoped for ; of recent years some parasite or fungus enemy of the
red scale has established itself and keeps it in check. Young trees
are frequently attacked by a soft brown scale, which is also to be found
on many other indigenous plants, but yields readily to treatment by
ordinary washes and sprays, though if neglected the resulting sooty
deposit interferes with the natural functions of the foliage and retards
the growth. The Australian bug [Icerya purchasi] makes its appear-
ance at intervals, but is kept effectively in check by its natural enemies.
The orange codling moth [? Enarmonia batrachopa, Meyr.] is more
abundant than usual this year, and in some districts loss due to damage
by the larvae amounts to 50 per cent.
Citrus trees at Premier Estate—Rhodesia Agric. Jl., Salisbury, xi,
no. 5, June 1914, pp. 766-767.
Coccus hesperrdum and Icerya purchast are recorded as being found
on citrus trees everywhere in Rhodesia, The black aphis attacks
the young growth of trees, and although it is persistent in returning
it may be destroyed by the mildest form of wash.
Govueu (L. H.). Problémes relatifs au nouveau fiéau du cotton égyp-
tien, le ver rose de la eapsule ou Gelechia gossypiella, Saunders.
[Problems relating to the new pest of Egyptian cotton, the Pink
Boll Worm, Gelechia gossypiella, Saunders. |—Bull. Union Agricul-
teurs d Eyypte, Cairo, xii, no. 107, June 1914, pp. 196-197.
In this communication to the Congress of Tropical Agriculture, held
in London, in June 1914, the author states that the number of genera-
tions of the pink boll-worm varies from one to six per annum in
Egypt. Pimpla roborator, Chelonella sulcata, Iimnerium wnterruptum,
Pediculoides ventricosus, and Microsporidium polyhedricum are parasites
capable of reducing the number of hibernating larvae by more than
40 per cent. In infested fields the attack was more severe in the
second year and diminished considerably in the third. The only
means of control at present available, are destruction during winter
of all the cotton wood stored for fuel and fumigation or other treatment
of the cotton seed.
Vivet (E.). Les plaies de taille de la Vigne et les Termites. [Termites
and the cicatrices due to pruning the vine.}—Bull. Agric. Algér.
Tun. Maroc, Algiers, xx, no. 11, June 1914, pp. 333-338.
The vine-growers in the Tipaza district were alarmed on finding
most of the weak vine-stocks infested by termites when the first
shoots were beginning to appear this year. The species concerned
is Calotermes flavicollis, in the colonies of which Picard states that
no workers or neuters occur, their réle being taken by the
larvae. It is these which vine-growers chiefly observe, there being
but few soldiers in each colony. Attack is limited to those portions
of the vine which are nearly dried up. This explains why the young
and healthy vines are immune, while old ones, covered with cicatrices
due to pruning and in which the sap-flow is weak, are specially attacked.
|
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:
597
Such stocks are best destroyed, but if only slightly attacked, carbon
bisulphide may be injected into the galleries, which should then be
sealed. This will confer temporary, but not lasting protection. Pre-
ventive measures are best and a method of pruning which will reduce
the surfaces cicatrised will reduce the amount of dead wood. After
discussing the best methods of pruning the author expresses his
belief that the only real protection against termites consists in main-
taining the vines in a healthy condition. Cuts may be painted over
with coal tar or other suitable substances.
RUTHERFORD (A.). Insects Injurious to Camphor.—Trop. Agric.,
Peradeniya, xiii, no. 6, June 1914, pp. 463-468.
In December 1913, the author observed that many buds and leaves
of camphor bushes (Cinnamomum camphora) were blackened and dead,
suggesting damage by a Heteropterous or Homopterous insect rather
than by the thrips which the author found in the bud and inside cracks
on the twigs, and which he believes to be Cryptothrips floridensis,
described by Watson as injuring camphor in Florida [see this Review,
Ser. A, i, p. 512]. The leaf-miner of camphor (Acrocercops sp.) which
has also been reared from Blumea balsamifera, Trewia nudiflora,
Acyranthes aspera, Terminalia catappa and Bauhinia sp., mines under
the upper epidermis of the young leaves and causes a large blotch.
Its parasites seem to keep this moth well under control, but in the case
of a severe attack spraying with a tobacco decoction might
be given a trial. The larvae are subject to the attacks of a small
Chalcid, and a species of Braconid has also been reared from leaves
infested by Acrocercops.
Clania variegata, Snell., has been recorded from tea and Antigonum,
as well as from camphor, and the best way to deal with this bagworm
is to collect and destroy the caterpillars. The cases of what is probably
Amatissa consorta, and two species of what were believed to be Pyralid
larvae, have been observed on camphor. Other insects attacking
camphor are the beetles, Xyleborus compactus, Hichh., X. arquatus,
Samps., Xylopertha sp., Lepidiota pinguis; the Lepidoptera, Suana
concolor, Payilio lankeswara, P. clytia and Attacus atlas; two Acarids,
Tetranychus bioculatus and Brevipalpus obovatus; a bug, Coptosoma
siamica; a species of Aspidiotus, probably A. rapax (camelliae), and
a twig-girdler, which often causes the young twigs to wilt and
fall over.
CoLtince (W. E.). The Economic Importance of Woodlice.—J/. Bd.
Agric., London, xxi, no. 3, June 1914, pp. 206-212, 1 plate.
The author says that such seasons as those of 1912 and 1913 have
been very favourable to the rapid increase of woodlice, and consequently
complaints of the damage they have done have been more numerous
than for many years past. Of the thirty-five species found in the
British Isles not more than nine or ten are sufficiently common to be
of any economic importance.
Trichoniscus roseus, Koch, frequently does considerable damage in
greenhouses and conservatories, attacking, amongst other plants, ferns
598
and orchids. Oniscus asellus, L., is a common pest in cold frames and
potting sheds, and also in flower borders and vegetable gardens. Porcellio
scaber, Latr., is frequently found in orchid houses and ferneries and
has been recorded as damaging the bark of lime-trees. This species
and O. asellus are the two commonest in this country. P. scaber is
frequently found in cold frames in the Channel Islands often accom-
panied by smaller numbers of P. dilatatus, Brandt, and P. pictus,
Brandt. Porcellio laevis, Latr., has been found attacking the roots of
strawberry plants in the Channel Islands, while Porcellionides pruinosus,
Brandt, has been taken on potatoes, and lettuce grown under glass.
In flower borders an enormous amount of damage, often put down to
slugs, is frequently caused by Armadillidium vulgare, L., the common
pill woodlouse, which also attacks potatoes and field-beans, the latter
plant being also attacked by A. nasutum, Budde-Lund.
Outhouses, potting sheds, etc., should be cleaned out from time to
time, and rubbish heaps cleared away. Kerosene emulsion as a
contact spray is effective, and sliced potatoes thinly covered with Paris
green or London purple may be used as a bait for these pests. Sprink-
ling Paris green on the floor of a greenhouse and covering it with damp
boards is very effective. Dusting the soil, especially along the sides
of tiles surrounding flower beds, with equal parts of Paris green and
ground unslaked lime is an excellent remedy. The loose straw and
tubbish that collects round manure heaps should be raked together
and burnt before the manure heap is opened for use. In this way
many hundreds of woodlice may be collected and destroyed.
Maskew (F.). Report of Investigation of the Fruit-fly Situation in the
Territory of Hawaii—Mthly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacra-
mento, Cal., ili, no. 6, June 1914, pp. 227-238.
This is a detailed account of a visit made by the author to Hawaii
for the purpose of investigating the Mediterranean fruit-fly [Ceratotes
capitata| in all its phases, with special reference to the value and
results of the clean-culture campaign at Honolulu and its bearing
upon preventing the introduction of the fruit-fly into California and
the United States. The clean culture campaign, which the author
very fully describes, had at the time of his visit been in operation for
about thirty months, but in his opinion had not controlled the fly,
nor has it reduced the amount of infested material reaching the main-
land. ‘The melon fly (Dacus curcurbitae) is also a source of great
financial loss, and all its food-plants should be included in the list
covered by the United States quarantine order. A Federal super-
vision of horticultural exports, similar to the system in force in the
gipsy moth area, would protect the horticultural interests of the
mainland much better than a continuance of the Honolulu campaign.
Every article of commerce between the islands and the mainland
constitutes a potential danger of introducing the fruit-fly, and ship-
ments of bananas, under the present system of Federal inspection,
do not constitute a greater danger than other articles. The question
of mails, sealed baggage and passengers’ clothing as avenues of entrance
is one of grave importance, and measures aiming at the complete
control of these should be devised.
599
Insect Notes.—Mithly. Bull. State Commiss. Hortic., Sacramento, Cal.,
ll, no. 6, June 1914, p. 245.
L. Childs reports that the twig-borer, Polycaon confertus, Lec.,
was noticed in large numbers on the California buckeye, Aesculus
californicus, prunes and pears, and that pupae and adults of the fruit
tree leaf-roller, Cacoecia (Archips) argyrospila, and the cherry slug,
Eriocampoides (Caliroa) cerasi, L., have been taken on cherry trees.
Icerya purchast, Mask., Eulecanium cerasorum, Ckll., and E. pruinosum,
Coq., were observed side by side on the branches of the native California
black walnut, the last being parasitised by Comys fusca, the common
parasite of the apricot scale. Two Syrphid flies, Lasiopticus (Cata-
_bomba) pyrastrs and Syrphus americanus, Wied., were found feeding
in countless numbers on both the walnut aphis, Chromaphis juglandicola,
Kalt., and the prune aphis, Hyalopterus arundinis, F.
K. J. Branigan records the larvae of the brown day moth, Pseudo-
hazis eglanterina, on two species of willow, wild blackberry, wild grape,
‘wild rose and prunes, and the oak moth, Phryganidia californica, on
live and water oak. The western tussock moth, Hemerocampa vetusta,
was collected on two species of oak, plum, cherry, hawthorn, apricot,
apple, pear, prune and blackberry, and a Capsid bug, Irbisia
brachycerus, Uhler, was observed feeding in large numbers in prune
and olive orchards.
Ketty (HE. O. G.). Notes on the Biology of Diplazon laetatorius, F.—
Jl. Econ. Entom., Concord, vii, no. 3, June 1914, pp. 294-297.
The author records a case of one insect laying an egg on that of
another insect, and of the subsequent development of the parasitic
larva, not in the egg of the host, but in the larva of the latter.
This insect was the Ichneumon, Bassus_ laetatorius, which
was reared in several instances from the larvae of the
Syrphid, Baccha clavata. Oviposition by B. laetatorius in the eggs
of B. clavata was observed, and though the larvae of B. clavata hatched
normally and grew to maturity, the adults of B. laetatorzus issued from
the pupae, having required about 35 days to reach the adult stage
from the egg. The case is remarkable, since the egg of the Syrphid
measures only about 1 mm., while the adult _Ichneumon is about 8 mm.
in length. Four families of parasitic Hymenoptera exhibit this
method of parasitism, namely IcHNEUMONIDAE, represented by
Bassus laetatorius, PRocTOTRUPIDAE by Polygnotus hiemalis and P.
minutus, BRACONIDAE by Chelonus texanus, and CHALCIDIDAE by
Tetrastichus asparagi, Ageniaspis fuscicollis and Lntomastiz (Copi-
dosoma) truncatellus.
Parks (T. H.). The Clover Leaf Weevil (Hypera punctata).—Jl. Econ.
Entom., Concord, vii, no. 3, June 1914, p. 297.
The Clover Leaf Weevil (Hypera punctata), common in the eastern
States of America, has recently become abundant in a part of the
Payette Valley in south-western Idaho. A field of red clover was
eaten to the ground and surrounding lucerne seriously injured during
April by the larvae of this insect. The clover and some of the lucerne
were promptly ploughed to kill the larvae. There is no evidence
600
of the presence of the fungus, Empusa sphaerosperma, which effectively
controls outbreaks of the insect east of the Mississippi, but its estab-
lishment in the Payette Valley is being attempted, though some
anxiety is felt on account of the dry climate being possibly unfavourable
to the rapid spread of the fungus.
BUTLER (H.).. An unusual Occurrence of Walking-Sticks.—J/. Econ.
Entom., Concord, vii, no. 3, June 1913, p. 299.
During the summer of 1913, the woods in the vicinity of Peterson,
Iowa, were infested with large numbers of a stick-insect, Diapheromera
femorata. The woods consist chiefly of oak, with smaller numbers
of elm, ash, aspen, linden, hickory, and black walnut, and have a
heavy undergrowth of hazel. In May the hazel was covered with
newly hatched insects, which in August began to leave the timber
and appeared in the orchards, one tree of early apples being defoliated.
By September, the foliage in the woods was destroyed in large patches.
TuRNER (W. F.). The Oak Scale (Lecaniwm quercifex, Fitch) and its
eontrol.— Alabama Agric. Expt. Sta., Auburn, Circular no. 28,
June 1914, pp. 105-110, 1 fig. ‘
Eulecanium (Lecanium) quercifex, Fitch, the oak scale, is found
throughout the United States and even in Canada, and has been taken
on black oak (Quercus velutina), red oak (Q. rubra), scarlet oak (Q.
coccinea), willow oak (Q. phellos), live oak (Q. virginiana) and white
oak (Q. alba), besides the elm, iron-wood, and chinquepin. Its chief
food-plant is the water oak (Q. nigra) and it is chiefly harmful in the
South Atlantic and Gulf Coast States. The author points out that the
dates given are probably late for South and early for North Alabama.
Oviposition, which continues for three weeks, in 1911 commenced
about Ist April, and in 1912 about 13th April. The average number of
eggs laid by each female is about 4,000, and these hatch in about twenty-
six days. The young nymphs are very active and may travel con-
siderable distances before settling, and they are carried from tree to
tree by birds, large insects, or perhaps by the wind. Hxamuinations
were made of several heavily-infested trees, and while the branches
and twigs were covered with the migrating young, none could be
found on the main trunk more than six inches from the bases of the
branches and perhaps a foot from the nearest adult. It is doubtful
whether the young ever crawl to the ground, at least, in the case of
large rough-barked trees. Laboratory experiments showed that 42°2
per cent. of the nymphs that settled, did so on the upper surface of
the leaves of water oak, and 57:8 per cent. on the lower surface—
principally along the main or larger lateral veins, though experiments
failed to determine the percentages of individuals which actually
settled. The nymphs remain on the leaves until autumn, migration
to the small twigs beginning at the end of September and continuing
up to early winter, though probably a large percentage of the nymphs
are shed with the leaves and never reach maturity. The young remain
dormant on the twigs until February, when a rapid growth until the
end of March begins. The female begins to lay eggs soon after attaining
full growth, but the male and time of mating are unknown.
:
601
Two undetermined Hymenopterous parasites have been captured,
one on the hibernating nymphs, and one on the eggs. Chilocorus
bivulnerus, is also predaceous on the young stages. After somewhat
extensive spraying experiments, the author recommends a thorough
spraying in March, using any of the three following formulae: (a)
Schnarr’s Insecticide, 1 to 20. (6) Junior red engine oil, 2 gallons ;
whale-oil soap, 1 gallon ; water, 50 gallons. (c) Diamond paraffin oil,
2 gallons ; whale-oil soap, 1 gallon ; water, 50 gallons. In preparing
(6) and (c) the oil should be slowly added to the soap solution and when
thoroughly mixed, about 3 quarts of water should be added slowly and
the whole emulsified ; dilute to 50 gallons and the mixture is ready for
use. One thorough application every four or five years, wetting all
sides of all twigs, will control this pest, as the scale spreads very slowly
from tree to tree.
i, CrawrorD (D. L.). A Monograph of the Jumping Plant-lice or
Psyllidae of the New World. —U.S. Nat. Mus., Washington, D.C.,
Bull. no. 85, 3rd June 1914, 196 pp. 30 pls.
In this monograph a complete rearrangement of the genera of
PsYLLIDAE is presented, and the American genera have been arranged
in six sub-families, viz. :—LIvIINAE, PAUROPSYLLINAE, CARSIDARINAE,
CERIACREMINAE, TRIOZINAE and PsyLLINAE. Some of these are new
names, and those which have already been used have here different
limits. The old subfamily, APHALARINAE, is not recognised, and the
genus Aphalara has been transferred to the Livi1nasz, and the other
genera formerly placed in it have been referred to PsYLLINAE or
other subfamilies. After dealing with the morphology of these insects
and their relations to other Homoptera, the author describes a large
number of species, many being new. A very full bibliography
(1840-1914) is appended.
SURFACE (H. A.). A New Leaf Pest.—Whkly. Zool. Press Bull., Penns.
Dept. Agric., Harrisburg, no. 268, 15th June 1914.
An unusual outbreak is recorded in northern Pennsylvania of the
Red Leaf Beetle (Galerucella rufosanguinea), which eats the foliage
of cherry, peach, apple and grapes, and has already done such damage
that it will seriously check the growth and development of the trees.
Trees should be sprayed at once, using two pounds of lead arsenate in
50 U.S. gallons (424 Imp.) of water, care being taken to reach both
sides of the leaves.
Morean (A. C.) & Parman (D.C.). Arsenate of Lead as an Insecti-
cide against the Tobacco Hornworms in the Dark-Tobacco District.
—U.S. Dept., Washington, D.C., Farmers’ Bull. no. 595, 15th
June 1914, 8 pp., 2 figs.
In the “dark-tobacco” districts of Kentucky and Tennessee
tobacco hornworms (Phlegethontius quinquemaculata, Haw., and
P. sexta, Joh.), are the most serious problem of the tobacco-grower.
Hand-picking being no longer practicable, owing to the scarcity and
inefficiency of labour, growers have been forced to employ an insecticide.
602
Paris green was first used, but as it frequently burns tobacco severely
and may reduce the value of the crop as much as 50 per cent., investiga-
tions during the past five years have resulted in arsenate of lead
(diplumbic) being found to meet the requirements. The author
describes and gives the results of experimental applications of this
insecticide in both fine and rainy weather. Arsenate of lead should
be applied in the form of a powder when there is no breeze and
when dew is still on the plants. The quantity required varies from 3}
pounds to 5 pounds per acre, using a dust gun having a fan diameter
of at least eight inches. When applied in powdered form it must
be mixed with a carrier, the best found so far being dry wood-ashes,
used in a bulk at least equal to the arsenate of lead. If applied as a
spray, use 3 to 4 pounds in 100 (U.S.) gallons of water (85 gals. Imp.)
The Use of Carbon Bisulphide in Emulsion at Martinique and Guade-
loupe.—Agric. News, Barbados, xiii, no. 317, 20th June 1914,
pp. 202-203.
This article by G. Bordaz originally appeared in the Martinique
newspaper, La Paix, for 9th and 14th May 1914. In Martinique,
as in Guadeloupe, cacao, coffee, lime and other trees are destroyed
by white grubs and by eel-worms. Amongst the former the most
dangerous is the larva of a weevil, Exophthalmus famelicus, which
causes the death of young cacao trees, and also attacks plantations
of lime trees which have replaced sugar-cane ; for this reason it is said
that cacao trees cannot succeed in land previously planted in sugar-
cane. Kel worms chiefly attack Arabian or Martinique coffee and
whole plantations have disappeared from this cause. It has been
proposed to graft Liberian stocks, which, with Robusta coffee, is
the only coffee left in Martinique, but simple treatment with carbon
bisulphide would have eradicated both eel-worms and Ezophthalmus
larvae. The use of carbon bisulphide, however, has not become as
general as was hoped, and as a result Arabian coffee has practically
disappeared from cultivation, while in 1913 the output of cacao was
about 27 tons less than the average export for the previous five years.
Emulsion pumps and soil injectors, which are recommended for
use on large properties, are not always available to the small planter,
and in the circumstances the most efficacious method is to pour
the emulsion round the foot of each tree. An emulsion made with oil,
which is very easy to use and less expensive than one made with
alcohol, is prepared as follows: Equal volumes of carbon bisulphide
and vegetable oil of the lowest quality obtainable (castor or cotton
seed oil) are mixed together to form the stock solution. The dose of stock
solution to be employed per plant should be poured into the requisite
quantity of water, which has previously been rendered alkaline
by the addition of 14 oz. of carbonate of soda per gallon. For cacao
the best time for treatment is during September and October, and those
months which follow on the dry season in the case of coffee; but it
should be carried out in fine weather, when the dry soil will rapidly absorb
the emulsion, for treatment in rainy weather is wasteful. In treating
Arabian coffee for eelworm, the emulsion should contain 2 parts of stock
solution to 1,000 of water, and with this the ground round the foot of
603
the tree wthin a radius of 16 inches should be soaked. To facilitate the
penetration of the liquid the soil, which must be impregnated to a depth
of 4 inches, should be stirred ; 4 to 10 pints of emulsion are required
per tree, according to age. This quantity of carbon bisulphide will not
suffice to kill Hxzophthalmus, and when treating cacao, double the
strength is required. Round the stem of the tree make a trench 6 to 8
inches broad and 2 to 4 inches deep, according to whether the primary
roots are found near the surface or not. To avoid wounding or
barking them, no attempt should be made to uncover the lateral roots.
After loosening the soil at the bottom of the trench, it should be filled
with 4 parts of stock solution per 1,000 of water, using 4 to 10 pints,
according to the size and age of the plant. As much as 18 pints may
be used for the larger trees if sufficient water is available. Barbados
prices are given for each constituent and the cost per adult cacao tree,
using the stronger emulsion (1 gallon per tree), is a little over 4d,
Ezophthalmus esuriens.—Agric. News, Barbados, xiii, no. 317, 20th
June 1914, p. 203.
In 1912 Exophthalmus esuriens was found in St. Kitts associated with
root-borer grubs in sugar-cane [see this Review, Ser. A, i, p. 165] and
this year some 40,000 of these insects have been collected on cotton
plants in fields adjoining those in which the sugar-cane was so severely
attacked by root-borer. The grubs had completed their growth and
development at the expense of the canes, and the adults, on emerging,
had congregated on the cotton plants for the purposes of feeding and
mating. About the same time these weevils made their appearance
in great numbers in Montserrat, feeding on the leaves of limes and
other citrus plants. During June a similar occurrence was reported
from Antigua, where 47 acres of limes have been attacked, 7 acres
badly, and where 23,400 weevils were collected in four days.
Boucuer (W. A.). Spraying.—J1. Agric. Wellington, N.Z., viii. no. 6,
20th June 1914, pp. 648-649.
For mussel scale, red spider, and mealy bug, the author recommends
spraying with emulsified red oil, the New Zealand winter formula
for use when the trees are quite dormant, being as follows :—4 lb. special
soft soap, 4 gallons red oil, 68 gallons water. The soap should be
stirred to a lather in 2 gallons of boiling water and the oil added.
This mixture should be emulsified by means of the spray-pump, and
when the remaining 66 gallons are added, the mixture is ready for
use. Early application (July or August) is recommended, as spraying
with oil late in the season is apt to destroy the swelling buds. Some
growers prefer to use the red oil in the proportion of 1 gallon of emulsi-
fied oil to 10 or 12 gallons of water.
The author emphasises the fact that with the steady expansion
of the export trade each year it becomes more imperative than
ever that orchard pests and diseases should be, as far as possible,
eliminated.
604
GoopwIn (B. G.). The Fruit Crop.—Jl. Agric., Wellington, N.Z., viii,
no. 6, 20th June 1914, p. 667.
Reporting on the condition of the fruit crop at the end of May for
the Blenheim district, the author says that as considerable damage
has been done by leaf-roller caterpillars, he has recommended spraying
with arsenate of lead until the end of March, it being in that month
that the pest seems to be at its worst. The fruit should be kept thinned,
as the pest does most damage where apples are in clusters.
Littter (F. M.). Woolly Aphis.—Weekly Courier, Launceston, Tas-
mania, 25th June 1914. [Reprint received 14th August 1914.]
The author has successfully experimented with a painting mixture
containing linseed oil, white lead and turpentine, applied with a
moderately stiff brush, but not stiff enough to damage the fruit buds.
The ingredients are costly, but the author thinks that this is an almost
certain cure, as the turpentine penetrates the covering of the aphids
and kills them quickly, while the white lead, besides being poisonous,
covers the colonies with an airproof coating. A formula has
not yet been decided upon, but the white lead should be mixed with
sufficient linseed oil and turpentine to give the mixture a milk-like
consistency. After referring to papers by Patch, Cadoret, Woodworth,
Sevastjanov, Schneider-Orrelli and Poskin [see this Review, Ser. A, i,
pp. 24-26 and 274; ii, pp. 4, 75-77, 152 and 176-177] the author
suggests co-operation between fruit-growers and the Department of
Agriculture with a view to tabulating the results of the various sprays
and paints used against Schizoneura lanigera.
Davis (J. J.). New or little-known species of Aphidae.—Canadian
Entomologist, London, Ont., xlvi, nos. 2, 3, 4,5 and 7, Feb., Mar.,
April, May and July 1914; pp. 41-51, 77-87, 121-134, 165-173
and 226-236, 5 pls., 9 figs.
The author in a series of papers deals with ten species of APHIDIDAE,
four of which are described as new, viz.:—Macrosiphum creeli,
M. venaefuscae, Symdobius albasiphus and Aphis pseudobrassicae.
Savastano (L.). Rapporti biopatologici della mosca delle arance
(Ceratitis capitata, Wied.) e gli agrumi. [Bio-pathological relations
between the fruit-fly and citrus plants.}-Ann. R. Staz. Spert-
ment. Agrum. Fruttic., Acireale, ii, pp. 97-128. [Reprint received
16th July 1914. ]
Bio-pathological relations are simple between wild host-plants and
the insects which attack them, but in the case of cultivated species,
complications are introduced. The biology of Ceratitis has been fully
studied from an entomological point of view, while the factors con-
nected with the characteristics of the various species of Crtrus, and the
modifications produced by the grower and the intensity of cultivation,
are little known. The author considers that local conditions may
cause such variations in the biological relations between the fly and
the plant that the attack of the insect may be possible in one region
Qa ———S- lO oO
605
and not in another, and that cultural conditions usually increase the
susceptibility and only exceptionally assist the immunity of the Citrus
trees. Any increase of sugar and consequent decrease of acidity
in the fruit aggravates the attack. A bibliography of 47 works is
appended to this paper.
VoLKaRT (—). Dommages culturaux. [Injury to Crops.}—Annuaire
agricole de la Suisse, Berne, xv, no. 1, 1914, pp. 4-6. [Received
30th July 1914.]
The following notes referring to insect pests are taken from Dr.
Volkart’s report in this publication of the “‘ Département fédéral de
P Agriculture,” which report covers the period from the lst March
1912 to the 28th February 1913. Vines suffered only slightly from
Clysia ambiguella, but Phylloxera showed an increase on 1911. Fruit
trees were occasionally attacked by Anthonomus and Hyponomeuta,
and Cheimatobia seemed to be more numerous.
Goven (Dr. L.H.). The Fumigation of Citrus Trees—Agric. Jl. of
Egypt, Cairo, iv, no. 1, June 1914, pp. 17-29.
Citrus trees in Egypt are liable to the attacks of Chrysomphalus
(Aspidiotus) aonidum, C. auranti and Icerya purchast. Fumigation
is chiefly used against C. aonidum, which is the most destructive of
the citrus pests and attacks all kinds of citrus plants, mangoes, jasmine,
roses, narcissus, camelias, vines, eucalyptus, Ficus nitida and other
species of figs, bananas, soursops, guavas, ornamental palms, and many
other plants. It has several generations during the year, but nearly
all individuals which occur in winter are mature and lay their eggs
from December to January.
Infection is so easily carried by dead leaves or infested fruit that
fumigation can only cleanse an attacked tree and is no preventative
against re-infection. It seems impossible to fumigate successfully
a seriously attacked tree in one season.
Additional details as to the method of fumigating [see this Review,
Ser. A, 11, p. 103] are given. For every tree, the volume enclosed by
the fumigation sheet is calculated and the dosage for that volume
found by reference to Woglum’s table [Bull. 90, U.S. Bureau of
Entomology.| To calculate the volume, paint a black line across
the sheet, so that it reaches from side to side and passes through the
centre of the sheet. Mark the centre of the line by a large black
circle and from this measure off equal distances in feet along the line.
To calculate the height of the tree, note what figure on the line lies
on the ground on each side of the tree when the sheet is in position.
The sum of the two figures is that which must be used in calculating
the dosage. To obtain the circumference of the tree, measure round
the foot of the hanging sheet with a tape measure.
Applications for fumigation, which is only carried out in Egypt
by the Government, must be made to the Inspector of the province.
Only trees under 13 feet high will be fumigated ; larger trees should be
felled and burnt, or they should be cut down to 5 or 6 feet high, stripped
of their leaves and treated with lime, salt and sulphur solution. This
should be done in January or February.
606
Sours (F. W.). Summary of Locust Work March 12 to April 30, 1914.
Selangor.—Agric. Bull. Fed. Malay States, Kuala Lumpur, ii,
no. 11, June 1914, pp. 294-297.
The author summarises the results of the thorough destructive
methods which were employed against locusts in Selangor, in the
spring of 1914. In one day 868 kerosene tins full of hoppers were
caught in the Kajang district and the total catch from Kajang, Serdang
and Singei Besi made from February 13th to March 31st was 11,445
tins full [see this Review, Ser. A, 1, p. 479.] The flying swarms began
to appear early in April, but later in the same month the unexpected
appearance of mature flying swarms and hoppers occurred, which
the author believes must have been connected with two big swarms
that disappeared in the jungle the previous January. In the Negri
Sembilan State, where 35 acres of hoppers were successfully poisoned,
the swarms were small, but numerous and often scattered, with the
result that the work took longer than in Selangor. It has been found
that a large swarm can be dealt with almost as fast as a small one,
provided the ground is not difficult. The method of spraying poisons
on the grass on which the locusts are feeding proved very successful
in the Seremban district, where from 60-100 per cent. of each swarm
so treated was destroyed. The author believes this to be the quickest
and most successful method for small swarms scattered over large
areas of lalang land. At present it is difficult to obtain a sufficient
supply of molasses and when a coarse sugar was substituted for this
it was not found so satisfactory.
Noet (P.). Les ennemis de l’artichaut (Cynara scolymus). [Artichoke
pests.}—Bull. Trim. Lab. Entom. Agric. Seine Infér., Rouen, no. 2,
April-May—June 1914, pp. 14-15.
The chief insect pests of artichokes in Brittany are : Cassida viridis,
L., Aphis radicum, G., Aphis papaveris, ¥., Pyrameis cardui, L.,
and Xanthoecia (Gortyna) flavago, Schiff.
Disoz (P.). Notes biologiques sur la larve de Tzpula oleracea a propos
de ses ravages dans les prés de |’Avesnois, au printemps 1914.
[Biological notes on the larva of Tvpula oleracea, injuring the
meadows of Avesnois in the spring of 1914.}—C.R. Soc. Brol.,
Paris, \xxvii, no. 21, 19th June 1914, pp. 126-127.
In the spring of 1914, circular patches of from 15 to 60 feet in diameter,
or the entire areas of meadows, were to be seen covered with yellow
and dead grass, the roots of which were found to be full of the earth-
coloured larvae of Tipula oleracea. Grasses and clovers are chiefly
attacked, while plants with thick or hard roots are not affected. Where
the infested zone borders on a furrow, the larvae fall into it during the
night and being incapable of climbing out, may be collected in large
numbers. They are not migratory so that healthy meadows may
be found close to infested ones. Infestation is due to chance circum-
stances bringing fertilised Tipulids to the ground. The injury begins
toward the end of winter, and the spring growth limits its spread, the
607
larvae being active from October to May. The only practical
measure of control consists in deeply ploughing under the infested
turf and in sowing in the months of March and April.
BERNARD (L.). Technique des traitements contre les Insects de la
Vigne. [Technique of methods of control of insect pests of the
om Paris: J. B. Bailliére et Fils, 1914, 364 pp., 95 figs.
rice, 6 fr.
The chief object of this book is the study of the two well-known
pests, Clysia ambiguella and Polychrosis botrana, which have con-
tributed to bring about a serious crisis in French viticulture during the
past few years. Some 74 pages are also devoted to other insect pests
of the vine. After giving an account of the history and distribution
of Clysia and Polychrosis and describing and figuring the larvae,
pupae and perfect insects of both pests, the author further
describes Sparganothis (Oenophthira) pilleriana, and gives a
table by which the various stages of the three species may be dis-
tinguished. The life-histories of these pests in relation to the vine
are then discussed and a great mass of valuable information on the
subject is given. In dealing with the destruction of the insects, the
important effects of atmospheric conditions upon them is emphasised.
Particulars of various insect enemies are given, including Malachius
bipustulatus, which penetrates into the cracks in the vine props and
destroys a large number of pupae, Clerus formicarius, earwigs, certain
Hemerobius, and Discoelius zonalis. Certain Myriapods and spiders
also destroy fair numbers of larvae. The larvae are parasitised by
various ICHNEUMONIDAE, and two Chalcids, Caenacis parviclava and
Eucomys swederi, Dalm. (Pteromalus vitis), the latter being probably
the more useful, while the eggs of both species are parasitised by
Trichogramma (Oophthora) semblidis.
They are also subject to the attacks of the fungi, Isaria farinosa and
Sporotrichum globuliferum.
The author then describes in minute detail the various mechanical
methods for the destruction of the pupae. The use of shelter and
light traps and the destruction of these pests by spraying and other
chemical means are discussed at length, the necessity for combined
effort in each district being urged as of vital importance.
The life-history of Sparganothis pilleriana is next dealt with in
considerable detail and the methods of its control discussed, the
collection of eggs and fumigation with sulphur in tents being chiefly
recommended. Huxoa (Agrotis) segetum and Feltia (Agrotis) exclama-
tionis and A. pronuba all do considerable damage in their larval
state by eating the roots of vines in winter and the buds in summer.
Their numbers may be reduced by placing shelter traps consisting
of bundles of lucerne or of freshly-cut grass at the foot of each vine-
stock. Collection of the larvae at night with a Haltica funnel has also
been recommended. Amongst sprays, one composed as follows is said
to be useful :—5 Ib. potassium sulphide (liver of sulphur) and 10 lb. of
soap in 10 gals. of water, used at night when the larvae are out feeding.
A mixture of arsenite of copper, bran and treacle spread on the base
of the vine-stock has been found useful in Australia.
608
The Vine Sphinx, Pergesa elpenor, is especially prone to attack
vines trained “en espalier.” Collection of the eggs and larvae appears
to be the best means of checking the damage. In 1904, in Algeria,
another Sphinx (Deilephila lineata) did a large amount of damage, but
the larvae were ultimately got rid of by spraying with arsenite of
copper. Arctia (Chelonia) caja is occasionally very harmful and
appears to have a preference for clay soils.
Of the beetle pests, Haltica ampelophaga is very widely distributed
in Spain, whence, the author thinks, it hasinvaded the South of France
and Algeria. In the latter country before the introduction of arsenical
insecticides it was a veritable plague. The fight against the pest is diffi-
cult on account of the extremely rapid rate of reproduction. Every
year in Algeria and in the South of France, the insects are practically
annihilated, but nevertheless every spring they reappear in large num-
bers. Its natural enemies are of small consequence and it is very
difficult to find a practical method of attacking the hibernating insects,
though something may be done by burning brushwood, shrubs and dry
leaves. In 1887, the Government of Algeria made this destruction
compulsory within a radius of 50 yards round the vineyards, but in
spite of these drastic measures sufficient escaped to assure the repro-
duction of the pest. The use of the Haltica funnel and of arsenical
insecticides are the most satisfactory methods of control.
Adoxus obscurus var. vitis at times does serious damage. The perfect
insect makes its first appearance about the end of May, but the attack
is especially visible at the end of June and July. The damage done
to the leaves is not very important, but the grapes are sometimes
gnawed to such an extent that the whole vintage is destroyed. This
beetle occasionally abandons entirely an area in which it is swarming
and it has been suggested that after a certain number of generations
parthenogenesis occurs and the females migrate en masse to other
localities. The only practical remedy against the pest is collection
in funnels as used for Haltica. Details are given of the life-histories
of three weevils, Rhynchites betuleti, Otiorrhynchus ligustict and O. sul-
catus. One hundred species of the genus Otiorrhynchus are known
in France and of these 25 attack the vine. The addition of 2 per cent.
of bitter aloes to copper sprays against mildew is said to be useful
against them.
The Longicorn, Vesperus xatarti, is not usually a very serious pest.
Scraping the bark in February and searching for eggs in all likely
places is an effective measure, and the injection of bisulphide of carbon
into the soil is also useful against it [see this Rewew, Ser. A, i,
pp. 190-191].
Opatrum sabulosum appears in the beginning of May and attacks
only French-American grapes, having only become a pest of vines
since the arrival of Phylloxera. The larvae of Pentodon punctatus also
attack grafted vines, eating the new tissue around the graft and the
young buds attheir base. The only means of fighting it are the capture
of the adults at sundown and the injection of bisulphide of carbon
into the soil to kill the larvae.
Against Lethrus cephalotes the same remedies are applicable as
against P. punctatus. Anomala vitis is common in the sandy soils
on the shores of the Mediterranean and has the same habits as Melo-
lontha. The adults should be collected and the injection of carbon
609
bisulphide and the mixing of lumps of calcium carbide or crude gas-
liquor with the soil is useful against the larvae.
Cneorrhinus plagiatus (geminatus), known as a pest of vines since
1839, causes considerable damage by attacking the young buds, and
is especially abundant on sandy soils. The best means of capturing
the weevils is to use a Haltica funnel into which the vine-stocks are
vigorously shaken.
The Locustid, Ephippiger biterrensis, is found all over the vine-
growing districts of France and is exceedingly voracious; it will eat
all kinds of plants and at times other insects. It frequently bites
the labourers sleeping in the vineyards. Perhaps the best means of
controlling these pests is by killing the perfect insects with wooden
racquets as they fly off the plants. The Capsid bug, Lopus sulcatus,
is very common in vineyards in the Department of the Yonne and
the Cher. Collection of the perfect insects with Haltica funnels and
painting the stocks and supports with sulphate of iron for the purpose
of destroying the eggs, give good results.
Pulvinaria vitis is often very numerous on vines. As remedies, the
removal of all old bark during the winter and painting the stocks with
a 50 per cent. solution of sulphate of iron or a 4 per cent. solution of
sulphuric acid in June, before the insects have acquired their shield,
are recommended. The same remedies are applicable to Hulecanium
(Lecanium) persicae and Pseudococcus (Dactylopius) vitis, which are
also capable of doing considerable damage. The latter scale-insect
is generally to be feared because it is the precursor of the fungus
disease known as fumagine, which commonly develops upon the
waxy substances secreted upon white scale. The grey scale, Targionia
(Aspidiotus) vitis, is very common in the warmer districts, Nice,
Algiers, Italy, etc., but is never very destructive. It has a formidable
enemy in a small Hymenopteron, Spilomena (Celia) troglodytes, the
female of which stores her nest with these scales. 3
Several pages of the book are devoted to Phyllozera vastatrix, and
though an enormous number of remedies have been proposed against
this pest, no really satisfactory one exists, excepting the use of American
vine-stocks. Dasyneura (Cecidomyia) oenophila produces galls on the
underside of the vine leaves, but seldom does serious damage. To
those who are interested in vine pests, their life-history and the
methods by which they may be combated, this book will constitute a
mine of information and should be consulted in the original.
Savasrano (L.). La poltiglia solfo-calcica e le cocciniglie degli agrumi.
Riassunto. [Lime-sulphur mixture and the citrus scale-insects.
Resumé.}—Boll. R. Staz. Speriment. Agrum. Fruttic., Acireale,
no. 12, May 1914, 5 pp. [Received 16th July 1914.]
The lime-sulphur mixture [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, p. 412] gives
good results against Chrysomphalus dictyospermi, Mask., Aspidiotus
hederae, Val., Lepidosaphes beckii, Newm. (Mytilaspis citricola, Pack.).
Partial success is attained against Saissetia (Lecanium) oleae, Bern.,
but it is useless against Pseudococcus citri, Ris. Home-made mixture,
especially when freshly made, is better than the commercial article,
(C76) Cc
610
and is a curative and not a preventive spray. The hot hours of the day
should be avoided for spraying and very hot summer days, especially
when the temperature is variable, are unsuitable.
SIitvEstri (F'.). Contribuzione alla conoscenza dei Termitidi e Termi-
tofili dell’Afriea occidentale. I. Termitidi. A contribution to the
knowledge of the Termites and Termitophilous Insects of Western
Africa. I. Termites.]—R. Scuola Sup. Agric., Portici, 1914, 146 pp.,
84 figs., 1 pl.
During the author’s quest for fruit-fly parasites in Western Africa
in 1912-1913 his spare time was mainly devoted to collecting Termites.
He secured 119 forms, including sub-species, and varieties—six species
from South Africa being included. Forty-five species and twenty-six
varieties are described as new and ten new genera are founded. The
geographical distribution of forms is as follows: Senegal, 14 forms ;
French Guinea, 59; Gold Coast, 20; Dahomey, 5; Nigeria, 17;
Kamerun, 25 ; Congo, 5; Angola, 6.
Cuavuvienn (A.). A propos de Phivernage de l’Eudémis. [Concerning
the Hibernation of Polychrosis botrana.|—Rev. Vitic., Paris, xh,
no. 1068, 4th June 1914, p. 639.
The author has found that the pupae referred to in his previous
article [see this Review, Ser. A, ii, pp. 539] are not those of Polychrosis
botrana.. The insect in question has been identified as the saw fly,
Emphytus calceatus, Klug, and its presence in the old wood is probably
due to an accidental choice of winter refuge, as it does not specially
attack the vine.
Fapre (H.). Les différentes variétés de soufre utilisées en viticulture.
[The different varieties of sulphur used in vine-growing. |—Progrés
Agric. Vitic., Montpellier, xxxi, no. 25, 21st June 1914,
pp. 782-790.
The world’s supply of sulphur comes from Sicily and Louisiana.
The American product is slightly earthy in colour, owing to the presence
of bitumen, but its purity is the same within 1 per cent. Sulphur
may be had either ground or sublimated. As its efficiency in control
depends on its fineness it is well to stipulate that the ground sulphur
should pass a sieve of 100 or 110 meshes per 27 millimetres, and this
fineness should be guaranteed. Only the best makers can supply the
110 quality. The sublimate is higher priced, but it is cheaper to use
as it goes further, for 20 parts (by weight) of sublimate will replace 27
of the ground sulphur. An equal weight of sublimate is bulkier by
about one-third. Microscopic examination is necessary to distinguish
between the two varieties, and even this does not enable an admixture
of ground sulphur to the sublimate to be detected if the addition is
small. In the process of sublimation, it is impossible to avoid the
formation of some crystals and, under the microscope, these look
like pieces of ground sulphur. The law, in France, allows 10 per cent.
of crystals to be present in the sublimate and good makes never contain
so much. [See also this Review Ser. A. i, p. 291.]
|
611
Situation des vignobles au ier Juin. [The state of the vineyards on
the 1st of June.]}—Progrés Agric. Vitic., Montpellier, xxxi, no. 25,
21st June 1914, pp. 775-779.
Pyralid larvae were numerous in the Aude and both Clysia and Poly-
chrosis moths were noticed in numbers there. In the Cdéte-d’Or,
Haltica appeared in large numbers at the time growth started, but
seemed to be less numerous in the old centres of 1912 and 1913, this
being probably due to treatment with copper-arsenic sprays. In
Indre Clysia was numerous, and also a source of anxiety in Loir-et-
Cher. In the Pyrenées-Orientales Clys1xa and Polychrosis were
abundant.
Cuavré (L.). De la non-action du froid sur les insectes. [The negative
action of cold on insects.|—Momteur dHortic., Paris, xxxviii,
no. 12, 25th June 1914, p. 135.
In October and November 1913 there was a late outbreak of Pieris
brassicae in the department of Vienne. Some of the larvae were still
alive in January 1914 and many chrysalids were attached to outside
walls without shelter. Though the thermometer reached freezing
point they were in no way injuriously affected.
CoTTE (J.). Recherches sur la résistance des végétaux verts aux fumiga-
tions d’acide cyanhydrique. [Researches on the resistance of green
plants to fumigation with hydrocyanic acid.|—C. R. Soc. Birol.,
Paris, \xxvii, no. 22, 26th June 1914, pp. 185-187.
The author finds that some plants possess a remarkable power of
resistance to hydrocyanic acid gas. The fumigating chamber used
in his experiments measured 32 by 32 by 40 inches. The potassium
cyanide contained 96:2 per cent. of the pure salt, producing an amount
of gas practically equal to 40 per cent. of the weight of the cyanide.
The apparatus was placed in a cellar of which the temperature was
practically stationary at about 61° Fahr. and never exceeded 62°.
The cyanide was placed in a dish containing sulphuric acid diluted to
one-quarter strength. The author describes five of the experiments
with doses of cyanide varying from 12°5 grammes to 39°06 grammes per
cubic metre, such strengths being considerably stronger than those
adopted in fumigation practice. Wheat is slightly affected by a 12
gramme dose, and is killed by a 2-hours exposure in an atmosphere
containing the gas from 39 grammes of cyanide. The castor-oil plant
first shows lesions at a 15-gramme dose ; 23 grammes are a sufiicient
strength to kill it more or less rapidly. The dwarf nasturtium resisted
a. dose of 15°51 grammes per cubic metre for 2 hours, but this seemed
to be nearly a fatal dose.
DE CHarMoy (D. d’E.). Report on a visit to South Africa.—Issued by
the Department of Agriculture, Mauritius, 15th May 1914, 12 pp.
[Received 27th August 1914].
This is a detailed report on the visit of the Mauritius Government
Entomologist to South Africa, where, from November 1913 to
February 1914 he studied entomological problems. After describing
(C76) ) c2
612
the fumigatoria and the plant importation and local quarantine:
measures, the author details the principal insect pests and their
control in South Africa. An attempt to introduce Novius cardinalis
into Mauritius from South Africa failed, but it is hoped that Icerya.
seychellarum, which attacks roses and other ornamental plants, will
be checked by this Coccinellid once it is established. Psewdococcus
(Coccus) wmdicus and Pseudococcus (C.) capensis will shortly be
available for distribution, and it is hoped that these insects will be
as eflective against the prickly pear, Opuntia monacantha, as they
have proved in experiments in South Africa. An unsuccessful attempt
was also made to introduce a Hymenopterous parasite of Sesamia
vuteria (nonagrioides) from South Africa.
DE CHaRmoy (D.d@E.). Report of the Division of Entomology for
1913.—Ann. Rept. Dept. Agric., Mauritius, for 1913, pp. 10-12.
[Received 5th October 1914.] |
As in previous years [see this Review, Ser. A, i, pp. 28-31] the
Dynastid beetle Oryctes tarandus was prevalent during 1913 on
certain sugar estates, but the method of digging out the larvae was
adopted more widely and has proved to be highly beneficial. The.
Melolonthid Lachnosterna sp. was found on sugar-cane in small
numbers, control measures being responsible for a noticeable.
reduction. Aphis sacchari occurred in great numbers on two sugar
estates, but by the middle of July all the insects were destroyed
by a fungus. The white borer, the larva of a small, greyish moth,
not yet determined, was very abundant throughout the island
in virgin canes, while burning previous to cropping was suggested in
order to protect the rattoons and to avoid the dissemination of Chion-
aspis tegalensis. A census of the area infected by Phytalus smithi,
Arrow, made in May and June 1913, indicated that this pest was not.
spreading. During 1913 some 34 million insects were destroyed,
against 15 million in 1912 and 24 million in 1911. The increase of
captures in 1913 was probably due to the reward offered being higher
than in 1912, and secondly, to a more thorough knowledge of the.
habits of the beetle. Up to the end of December 1913, some adults,
chiefly males, of Tiphia parallela, Smith, had been observed in the:
insectary built for the breeding of this Scolud parasite of P. smithz.
Other insects damaging various crops were Ceratitis capitata, Dacus
ferrugineus, Agromyza phaseoli, Prodenia littoralis, lawn cutworm
(Crambus sp.), Cratopus punctum, Adoretus versutus, Sphenophorus:
striatus (banana borer), and Coccus viridis (Lecanium viride), besides.
numbers of other mealy bugs and scale-insects. Tomatoes were seriously
damaged by the eelworm, Heterodera radicicola. The “lawn cutworm,”
which for the last few years has been a serious pest, was successfully con-
trolled by means of an application of kerosene mixture made as follows ::
1 part (by weight) of common soap is dissolved in 20 parts of water,
40 parts petroleum being gradually added ; to 24 parts of this emulsion.
add 16 parts Phenyl or 12 parts Creoline. A 2 per cent. solution of
this mixture does not injure grass if applied at the rate of 11 gallons.
per 80 square feet for the destruction of subterranean caterpillars and
Oryctes larvae.
613
CuOupcxoe Cenpcnoe XosAiictBo. [Agriculture of Siberia], Tomsk, Qa
no. 11, July 1914, pp. 323, 324, 326. ae
A note dealing with the state of crops in the government of Tomsk,
says that locusts are reported from some localities of the Zmeinogorsk,
Barnaulsk and Kainsk districts.
Another note gives a cheap remedy against insect pests, suggested
by