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VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
Price 20c
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
i nsects .
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members
Country or Associate members
Junior members
Student members
$ 3 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to a 11 persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
ENTER COURTYARD HERE
LITTLE LONSDALE ST ONE WAY->
LATROBF 5T
CHIMNEY
3 .
October, 1971. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
President: Mr, Chas. McCubbin, 6 Manmche Ave, Box Hill Nth. (89 9171)
Vice President: Mr, David Holmes
Immediate Past President: Mr, Peter Kelly, 260 The Boulevard, East Ivanhoe..
Hon. Secretary: Miss Sue Beattie, 2 Clyde St, Glen Iris. 3146. (50 5263)
Hon. Editor: Mr. John Barnes, 42 Lucknow St, Mitcham. (874 2748)
Hon, Treasurer: Mr. Bob Condon, 96 Shannon St, Box Hill Nth. 3129.
Committee: Mr, Peter Williams, Mr. Bob Thompson, Mr. Arthur Hall,
Mr. Fred Hallgarten, Miss Jenny Forse.
COMING EVENTS
Friday, October 22, 1971 .
General Meeting - Mr. Le Soeuff will give a talk on his recent trip.
Sunday, October 24, 1971 .
Excursion to Dandenong Ranges,
Friday, October 29, 1971 (Cup Weekend)
Excursion to Little Desert.
Sunday, N ovember 28, 1971 .
Excursion to the Dandenong Ranges.
REPORTS AND NOTICES
General Meeti ng - Friday August 20, 1971 .
The President chaired the meeting at which 32 members and friends attended.
Apologies were received from Mr. Dave Crosby, Paul Jacklin and Mr. § Mrs.
Le Soueff. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and passed.
In the topic for the evening was "Wood Borers of Lesser Significance" by
Mr, Doug Howick of the CSIRO Forests Products Laboratory. Mr. Howick
described the many varieties of beetle that infest wood, grain, dried
fruit, and bamboo, both native and introduced. For those who wish to
4.
'The Victorian Entomologist
revise’the information at this very informative talk, Mr. PtowiCk's paper will
be reproduced at a later date by the CSIRO.
The Constitution: Enclosed in this edition is a proposed model of the amended
Constitution which has been adjusted to have the Newsletter registered to post
as a periodical.
An Extraordinary meeting will be held at the next meeting to decide on the
Constitution.
Correspondence : Letters were received from:
1. Mr. George Heath, 34 Oakland Rd, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex. U.K. on July 4
1971. He is interested in Praying Mantids and wants some egg cases from
Australia.
2. Mr. Julio Bick, Sao. Paulo. Brazil, Caixa postal 5760, dated June 25, 1971.
He wishes to exchange some Brazilian insects for those of Australia.
3. Mr. Thomas Allen, P.0. Box 152, Beverly, West Virginia. 26252. U.S.A. dated
July 18, 1971. He wishes to trade some species of Lepidoptera for Australian
species.
4. Melbourne University Anti-Pollution Campaign, C/- SRC Union House, Univ. of
Melb., Parkville, interested in an account of our aims, interests and
practical activities and research that we are undertaking.
5. A circular was received from the Entomological Soc. of Australia (N.S.W.)
no. 215.
6. Mr. Ian Morhaus, P.0. Box 60, Woodburn, N.S.W. 2472 wrote thanking the
previous Secretary for his letter.
NEW MEMBERS
We wish to welcome the following members:
Greg Richard, 25 Norwood St, Sunshine. 3020.
Pete Holbery, 3 Coorie Cres, Rosanna. 3084,
James Hutchinson, 24 Junction Rd, Blackburn Nth. 3130.
Glynn McConnell, 22 Reid St, Beaumaris. 3193.
EXHIBITS
Mr. LeSoeuff displayed specimens of VIRACHOLA SMILIS DALYENSIS + § <? found
on the fruit of STRYCHNOS . When he revisited Daly River there were none to
be found, but at Darwin, 300 empty pupa cases were found.
Mr. Chas. McCubbin displayed a case of Caper White butterlies taken from
Botanic Gardens, Melb., Bogong (Vic), Dec. 1970, and Taggerty’.
Ray Besserdin displayed some of his general collection.
October, I97 j_. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
DISCUSSION :
Noel McFarlane of the Adelaide Museum, has found a new species of THELAINA
from Alice Springs, which breed around June & July, and also a new species of
GEOMETRICS on Kangaroo Island; the wings which rest above its head similar
to those of a butterfly.
The eggs of the Emerald, PARATERPINA HARRISONI have been found.
Mr. LeSoueff mentioned the apparent abundance of stick insects in the Northern
Territory.. By their large size, they may easily have been of great food value
to the aborigines.
Mr. LeSoueff also suggested the possibility of protecting an existing area of
MERMICOFFILA at Ocean Grove,
request from the CSIRO.
They are:- 'The Argentine Ant' - 11 mins. 3 1956.
'Biological Control of Insects' - 36 mins., 1960.
'Dangerous Immigrant - The European House Borer' -15 mins. 3
1960.
'Embryonic Development of the Light Brown Apple Moth' -
19 mins. 3 1965.
'Fighting the Cattle Tick’ - 22 mins. 3 1962.
'Insect Tissue Culture' -17 mins. 3 1963.
’Some Current Research Activities in the Division of Entomology '
23 mins., 1962.
'The Termite Colony' - 33 mins., 1970.
Requests, should be addressed to the Film Librarian 3 CSIRO Film Unit 3
314 Albert St. 3 P.0. Box 69, East Melbourne. Vic. (419 1333).
Published by Nelson. $25.
"The Victorian Entomologist
October, 1971 ___ _
THE JUNIOR PAGE e.
A
The hymenoptera of Heidelberg.
The summary to follow concerns only various insects
of this order which I have collected in the past
few'years (ICHNEUMONIDAE).
The most varied and common wasps found here are the
ichneumons; a family widely known all over Australia.
Within the family the "Cream-spotted ichneumon"
(Ecthromorpha intrictovo) is the most common. It is
easily distinguished by its entirely black body with
rows of creamy spots along tfte pluera of the abdomen;
it also features a few spots on the thorax.
Depending on the sexes, the female has a red frons
while the male has a yellow. The dimorphism is also
described in the female, like in other species, as
in having the abdomen taper intensely from the end
to the base. Protruding from the posterior is the
rather long and stout cerei, consisting of two egg-
laying ovipositors and a defence sting. This is the
common set up for wasps with enlarged cerci.
The male however has a long rounded slender abdomen
with the usual terminalia type cerci. Legs and
antennae are a bright orange,although the males
fore and mid-legs are often a yellowy orange. The
tarsi number is 5-5-5. Its hind legs are the most
powerful,judging by the large stout femer and
thickered tibia; the coxa is also large and the
trochanter .easily visible. Towards the fore-leg
the articulation of the legs becomes smaller and
finer. The wings are a smoky colour with a
semi-circular pterostigma extending posteriorly
from the costal vein near the apex. I don't know
much about the life histories of this wasp, but I
do know it is parasitic on moth pupas of a certain
species. The adults emerge usually mid-spring but
are frequently found as early as late winter
depending on the climatic conditions. The usual
habitat are young eucalypts known as (Eucalyptus
obliqua).
THE (3 LACK CRcArl-iPf'T
ICfH N) & ij f“1 O KJ -
(ECHTHROriORPHA
|MTP N iCTORiA
I\JotE THE- POWe.r3.FOu HIM
UEfl 1
Side pa.ofi.ue of th£
ABDOriEN of A TypiO
iCKJEortObJ WA^P. Wore 1
THE LARG.E SWEUC-f(v)Q- **
THE ENJD A TSPERiMOr
TOWARDS THE BASE.
October, 1971
7.
'The Victorian Entomologist
The next insect concerned is also commonly
referred to as a "Creen spotted ichneumon" yet the
genus is entirely different. The wasp comes across
by the name of Lissopimpla exselsa.
A wasp also famous for its habit of copulation
with a western species of orchid known as Chrytostylis
erecta. The anotomical appearance is very similar to
that of Ecthromorpha intrictoria other than the fact
of the colouration and the more slender build. In
regards to the general anatomy / the wasp is easily
recognized by its predominantly red body. The abdomen,
like others of its kind, taper anteriorly to the base
from a triangular end, and likewise also posessing
the typical cerci as found on Ecthromorpha sp. The
abdomen however is not completely a deep orange or
redjjin fact beginning from the base^the first four
segments are a sort of indigo blue to black, and it
is only on these segments that the creamy spots are
found. The spots are situated in order as one spot
to each tergal plate just behind the next segment; hence the name. Legs on this
creature are no where near as powerful as in Ecthromorpha f but as in other wasps
of its kind, the legs are larger and more powerful in the back and then decreasing
in capacity towards the front. The legs are also red except for the hind tibia
which are £ browny red. The tarsi number is 4-5-5.
Wings are clear around the lateral and hind edges, while the centre is a dark
smokeycolour that gives off a blue sheen in the light. Its head is entirely red
including the eyes,but unfortunately the eyes fade to black after death. I suppose
this is what attracted me about this wasp in the first place. The antennae is
red also; and like all ichneumons it is filiform. Males are the same except
for the long rounded shape of the abdomen. This wasp is also parasitic; undoubted¬
ly, but I haven't yet got around to finding put precisely on what. However I
believe that it attacks both the lava and pupa of Eeteronympha merope merope 3
(Common Brown) because the wasps habitat is essentially dry grasslands where
this butterfly is common, and it seems that the more common the butterflies^,
■the more common the wasps; at a guess a ratio of about 1 to 30 butterflies
Since the wasp is a nectar feeder; it is often seen scanning Anaseed bushes
and is more abundant in large crops of Anaseed. There is a technique which I
have worked out in connection with capturing those creatures. As you're walking
through the grass look near the top of each blade, and when you encounter an >io.
irregular protrusion always investigate it, because frequently enough it is^it.
Confidentially its a grand way of.collecting any kind of insect that inhabits
areas such as these. Often when you encounter them, they ar Sleaning their wings
by rubbing the hind legs over them and nibbling on their legs.
the red
CREAM-5POTTED ICNEOMOW
(LISSOPiMPLA E^CE-LSa)
Mcrrt THE SLtNOtR
(To be continued.)
October, 1971
8 .
'The Victorian Entomologist'
TO IRON RANGE IN 1968
Z'Le .Sou&r
Having in two collecting trips pretty well'covered theCooktown district, it
was decided that an effort be made'to visit the next northern centre of entom¬
ological interest. Armed with'plans'and - much information from Mr. Geoff
Monteith of Brisbane, and Mr*George Brooks of - Cairns, and a study of various
papers on its fauna, we arranged - to fly from Cooktown on July 9, 1968. With food
for a week, camping gear, a'generator - and the normal collecting equipment, Mary
and I; plus the dog joined aborigines, station owners, and mining executives on
the plane for Weipa.
With the Coen races scheduled - for the following week, there was very little
room in the plane for passengers asmost of the space was taken up with large
numbers of mail bags containing 'big hats' and other finery for local stockmen
to array themselves for the - biggest'annual - event in that part of the world.
Pictus, our small fox-terrier - had chewed his way out of the|regulation Pet-Pak
by the time we were airborne so I chained him to the luggage rack instead. The
length of chain just allowed him to balance his anterior end on the arm rest of
my seat.
We had expected - to have a'six mile walk out - to the hut on the Claudie, so it
was with some relief that we found Jim King at the Iron Range airport with his
landrover ready .to take, us out. It' was our - good fortune to find a fellow collector
in Mr. Tom' Guthrie already in occupation of the hut. He had brought his Combie
up from Cairns by ship and kindly moved out to make room for us.
It was surprising, visiting the - famous Claudie for the first time to see so
little rainforest. We had - expected it" to be like the Bloomfield, with miles of
jungle, whereas most of the countryseemed to be open eucalypt forest. However
near the hut there is quite a large tract of rainforest, and strips along various
nearby creeks.
As soon as we had settled in, I took the net along the track towards Portland
Roads. Despite the hot sunny day, - there were only two species of butterfly to be
seen. However, on later days we were gradually able to increase the number of
species taken. The big Ovnithogteva- which had been there in numbers a few weeks
before, (seen by Mr.Monteith) was almost over - , two females being seen and one taken.
Apart from PaohZio'pta poZydorus , none of the species were seen in numbers.
The generator we had gone to the trouble to bring with us was not a great success-
Despite warm drizzly nights - the' only species to be attracted was the widespread
Oehrogaster contrarial
October, 1971.
9.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
Mr. lorn Guthrie took us - ter Portland Roads for'a night, a most interesting
experience Here."we slept"in' our sieepingrbags on' the floor of one of the
units of the warf shed well-known for its’high tide toilet on the seaward end.
A young couple operating a"*portable X-Ray unit were in another section check¬
ing on the local aboriginal population'. Here ! took two larvae of Jalmenus
evagoras eickorni near the' 3 etty and several Hypockrysops apelles apelles on
another nearby pi ant,. These' were later bred out: by Mr'. Guthrie-on his return
home. Several other.* species' of’ butterfly were' taken* here, and a mistletoe
growing on a tree'on the-.foreshore collected by Mr, Guthrie proved to be of a
specie^not previously recorded.
Although naturally the-insect'population was:our main" interest, birds were
constantly claiming attention*. There were the Palm Cockatoos Electus Parrots
and the many smaller birds. The appearance of a pair of Victoria Birds of
Paradise sunning in'a jungle tree beside the track was a wonderful sight.
With Mr, Guthrie catching some'of the smaller exotic species in his mist-
net for banding and photography,we were able to see them at close quarters,.
Of the various trips' we have' taken to many parts of the country, this one to
Iron Range was really memorable. Pic had but one idea in mind during our stay;
that of chasing the very many wild pigs which were everywhere. Seizing an
opportunity when we were*busy transferring a snake into a bag, he set off un¬
noticed. A squealing" pig* and-barking'in the* distance drew our attention to his
disappearance. Luckily the" sow had" not decided to come to the rescue. Taking a
sheet of iron out one night" to inspect the generator, a small death-adder passed
between Mary and myself"outside the hut bent on its own business and quite
ignoring us
Drizzling rain and cloud-put'a'damper" on collecting for several days, but
despite this, a fair number" of'species were recorded
The following is - a" list of'those taken:
NYMPHALIDAE
Danaus chrysippus petilia
Danaus affinis affinis
) Euploea ctarchia niveata
) Euploea cove corinna
Tallervo zoilus ge'lo
Hypocysta metirius
Eypocysta area angustata
Hypocysta adiante adiante
Hypocysta irius
Melanitis leda bankia
Mycalesis persius persius
Mycalesisjcermunus terminus
Mycalesis sirius strius
) Ypthima avetous arctous
Neptis praslina staudingereana
Precis orithya albicincta
Cethosia chrysippe imperialist
Cupha prosope prosope
Pantoporia venilta moorei
Pantopor%a consimilis consimilis
Phaedyma shepherdi latifasciata
PAPILIONIDAE
Ornithoptera priamus pronomus
Pachliopta polydorus q'landos
Papilio ulysses joesa
Cressida cressida cressida
October, 1971
10
The Victorian Entomologist
LYCAENIDAE
(o) Rapala varuna simsoni
(o) Hypolycaena phorbas
(x) Narathura madytus madytus
(x) Jalmenus evagorus eichorni
(x) Hypochrysops apelles apelles
Hypochrysops apollo apollo
Nacaduba kurava parma
Jamides oyta elaudia
Jamides phaseli
Jamides aleuas ooelestis
Anthene lyoaenoides godeffroyi
Danis danis syrius
Hann R. Hymetus taletum
Hymetus salamandri
Catochrysops panormus platissa
(x) Euchrysops onejus onidus
Candalides erinus erinus
(Ojx)Philiris innotatus evinculus
PIERIDAE
Eurema heaabe phoebus
Eurema Candida virgo
Eurema smilax
Eurema Sana
Eurema laeta lineata
Eurema herla
Delias ennia tindalii
Delias mysis waterhousei
Delias argenthona argenthona
Delias aruna inferna
Delias nigrina
Elodina parthia
Elodina ennatia angulipenni
Elodina perdita perdita
Cepora perimale scyllara
HESPERIDAE
Tagiades japetus janetta
Notocrypta waigensis proserpi
Trapezites maqueeni (Musgrave)
Suniana sunius rectivitta
Telicota colon argeus
Telicota mesoptis mesoptis
Arrhenes dschilus iris
Pelopidas lyelli lyelli
Toxidea inornata
Sabera caesina albifascia
Delias mysis waterhousei was
bred from eggs taken by Mr.
Tom Guthrie during our stay
at Iron Range.
Butterflies taken at Iron.Range between July, 9 and July 17, 1968; some at
Portland Roads on July 11, and others during a visit to Coen between June 23
and June 28, 1968. (o)
PROPOSED MODEL OF THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF VICTORIA CONSTITUTION
1. NAME The name of the Society shall he "The Entomological Society of
Victoria".
2. OBJECT (a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion of entomology
in all its aspects.
(h) To gather, preserve arid disseminate knowledge of all Australian
species of insects.
(c) To compile and maintain a list of all known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific atmosphere all
persons interested in entomology.
3. tlEUBEBSHJLE Shall consist of:
(a) Ordinary Members
(b) Junior Members
(c) Student Members
(d) Country or Associate Members
(e) Honorary Members
(f) Exchange Members
(a) Ordinary Members are persons over the age of 21 years
paying an annual subscription to the Club„
(b) Junior Members are persons under the age of 21 years,
paying an annual subscription to the Club.
(aj Student Members are persons over the age of 21 years,
and who are bone fide full-time students of a college
or university, paying an annual subscription to the
Club.
(d) Country or Associate Members are persons who, through
force of circumstance, are unable to attend Meetings
of the Society regularly 3 paying subscription to the
Club.
(e) Honorary Members are those persons duly elected by
the Club, who have rendered or are rendering, distin¬
guished service to the Club, or to the cuase of
Entomology. These persons are to be entitled the same
priviledges as Ordinary, Junior, Student or Country
Members without subscribing an annual fee to the Club.
Honorary members shall be approved by the Council and
elected by a two-thirds majority at an Annual or
Ordinary meeting. The number of Honorary Members at
any one time shall not excede 10% of the total
membership of the Society.
2 .
(f) Exchange Members shall be only those Clubs or Affiliated
Societies interested in Entomology 3 and who send their
own magazine to the society in exchange for the
"Victorian Entomologist".
4. NOMINATION AND ELECTION
Applicants for membership shall be nominated and seconded by 2
financial members at any ordinary or annual general meeting 3 and
shall be elected at the succeeding meeting. Election shall be by
vote taken on a show of hands 3 or by ballot if such is demanded
by at least 3 financial members of the Society. The nominee shall
be declared elected if a majority in favour is obtained.
5. SUBSCRIPTIONS
All Annual subscriptions shall be fixed by the Council of the
Society.
All financial 3 honorary and exchange members shall receive
the Society's publication 3 "The Victorian Entomologist".
All subscriptions shall be payable in advance at the Annual
General meeting. The financial year shall terminate on 31 Dee .
6. TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
Membership of the Society will be deemed to have terminated if
any member tenders a written resignation to the Secretary 3 or
if any member is not financial after 90 days. Renomination
and re-election will be required of persons who resign and
wish to rejoin the Society. Persons who are unfinancial for
2 consecutive years may renew their membership by payment
of all subscriptions which are in arrears.
7 . THE COUNCIL
(a)
(b)
(c) The Council shall meet bi-monthly 3 or as often as may be
practicable and desirable.
(d) The Council shall have the power to make By-Laws with respect
to the Publication of the "Victorian Entomologist" 3 or any
other matters consistent with the objects of the Society.
8. ELECTION OF THE COUNCIL
(a) The Council members shall be appointed at the Annual General
Meeting of the Society.
The management of the Society shall be vested in the Council.
The Council shall compose of the President 3 Vice President 3
Immediate Past-President 3 Honorary Secretary 3 Honorary
Treasurer 3 News Editor and 8 other Councillors.
3.
(b) Nominations, in writing, and signed by the proposer, seconder
nominee, must be in the hands of the Secretary 7 days prior
to the Annual meeting.
(c) If there are insufficient written nominations, then nomin¬
ations may be accepted at the Annual General meeting.
(d) If there are Vacancies on the Council, occurring at the close
of the Annual General meeting, or for any other reason during
the Societies year, then these vacancies may be filled by
invitation.
(e) Office-bearers may be dismissed from Office, by a 75 % majority
vote, at a meeting called specially for the purpose, for which
7 days notice has been given.
9 . OFFICE-BEARERS
The PRESIDENT shall:
(a) Chair all meetings of the General and Committee Meetings.
The VICE-PRESIDENT shall:
(a) Deputize in the absence of the President.
The SECRETARY shall:
(a) Keep records of the names and addresses of all members of the
Society.
(b) Make the necessary arrangements for meetings, and give due
notice of all meetings.
(c) Keep Minutes of the proceedings of Council and General meetings „
(d) Transmit to the News Editor any material for publication in the
"Victorian Entomologist".
(e) Notify members concerning their subscriptions.
(f) Generally transact the routine business of the Society.
The TREASURER shall:
(a) Collect and receive all monies on behalf of the Society and
deposit these without any deduction whatsoever in a bank
approved by the Executive.
(b) Maintain records of all financial transactions.
(c) Keep a record of members indicating their current financial
status.
(d) Present a cash statement at each General and Committee meeting.
4.
(e) Make payments of all accounts approved for payment; such
payment being made by cheque, and signed by either the
Treasurer or the President.
(f) Set aside from the subscription of each member a sum
equivalent to $1.00 per financial member per annum of the
total as a subscription to the "Victorian Entomologist",
and he shall cause these sums to be separately accounted
in the yearly balance sheet and to be duly audited.
The NEWS EDITOR shall:
(a) Prepare and publish the "Victorian Entomologist" every
second month of the year, prior to the General meeting.
(b) Ensure that the cost of publication is kept within any
limitations set by the Council.
(c) Furnish the Council with a statement of expenditure of
each issue of the Newsletter.
(d) Arrange for the distribution of the "Victorian Entomologist"
to all members entitled to receive it.
10. MEETINGS An ordinary general meeting shall be held on the second last
Friday of each second month, and/or at such other times as
shall be deemed advisable by the Council. The annual general
meeting shall be held in February of each year.
At least 7 days notice of meetings is to be given to members
by the Secretary.
11. QUORUM At ordinary and annual meetings, 15 members, and at Council
meetings, 5 members shall form a quorum for the transacting
of any business.
12. ALTERATION OF CONSTITUTION
The foregoing shall not be altered, suspended or added to
except at an annual general meeting or at an extraordinary
meeting called for such purpose by the executive, and then
only when written notice of the amendment has been given
to the Secretary at least one month prior to the meeting
at which the proposed amendment is to be made.
BY-LAW :
There shall be a Club newsletter entitled "The Victorian
Entomologist", which shall be issued at bi-monthly
intervals. It shall be forwarded to all financial and
honorary members, and associations with which the
Society has exchange arrangements. Not more than 25%
5.
of all copies issued each month shall he despatched
to non-members of the Society.
An amount of $1.00 per annum shall he included in
the annual subscriptions of each member.
This $1.00 per annum shall be set apart for the
newsletter 3 and be separately accounted for in the
Annual Balance Sheet 3 and be duly audited.
.•
- '
.
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
VOL. I. IJ0.2
DEC. I9$I.
Price 20e
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
i nsects .
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members .. .. .. .. $3.00.
Country or Associate members .. .. $1.00.
Junior members .. .. .. .. • $1.00.
Student members .. .. .. .. $1.00.
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
ENTER courtyard here
LITTLE LONSDALE ST ONE WAY->
December, 1971
1
'The Victorian Entomologist'
CLUB ACTIVITIES
OFFICE BEARERS FOR 1971
President: Mr. Chas. McCvbbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth.
(89 9171)
Vice President: Mr. David Holmes
Immediate Past President: Mr. Peter Kelly, 260 The Boulevard,
East Ivanhoe
Hon. Secretary: Miss Sue Beattie, 2 Clyde Street, Glen Iris, 3146
(50 5263)
Hon. Editor: Mr. Ray Besserdin, 35 Quinn St., Heidelberg, 3084
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. Bob Condon, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth 3129
Committee: Mr. Bob Thompson, Mr. Arthur Hall, Mr. Fred Hallgarten,
Miss Jenny Forse, Mr. J. LeSouef
Editorial Committee: Mr. Chas. McCubbin, Miss S. Beattie, Mr. Ray
Besserdin, Mr. P. Villiams, Mr. Anthony Bishop, Mr. J.
Vainer.
The 'Victorian Entomologist' incorporates 'Vings and Stings'
COMING EVENTS
Sunday. November 28. 1971
Excursion to the Dandenong Ranges
Friday. February 18. 1972
Annual General Meeting, Member's night
MEETING DATES FOR 1972
April 21st 1972 August 18th, 1972 December 15th.
June 16th, 1972 October 20th, 1972
December, 1971
2 o
'The Victorian Entomologist'
REPORTS ADD NOTIC ES
E xtraordinary Meeting - Friday, October 22, 1971
The President chaired the meeting at which 28 members and friends
attended 0
The meeting was held in order to discuss the proposed Constitution.
The following alterations were made; -
1. Joint members shall be included in the Membership list - propose^
by F„ Hallgarten, seconded by B. Condon.
2 0 In view of the Society being dissolved, a Dissolution Clause is
to be inserted, proposed by F. Hallgarten, seconded by D. Crosby.
3„ Any reference to the word 'Club * 1 in the Constitution is to be
changed to 'Society'.
Pending these alterations, the Constitution was unanimously accepted.
General Meeting - Friday, October 22, 1971
Apologies were received from Mr. Clyde Wild, Mr. A. Nebois, Mr. A.
Hall. Mr. J, Barnes, Mr. P. Jacklin, Miss J. Forse, Miss White.
The speaker for the evening was Mr. De Souef who described with sli^ 1 '
the very interesting trip that he and his wife took this year to the
Northern Territory. It was unfortunate that there was not more time
to hear more details of this informative talk.
Representative Councillor for Australian Entomological Society.
Mr. Chas McCubbin has been appointed the Representative Councillor
to the Australian Entomological Society, C.S.I.R.O., Canberra,
following the resignation of Mr. P. Kelly from the position.
Decembers, 1971
3 o
The Victorian Entomologist
The Newsletter
lo With the retirement of Mr. Barnes as News Editor, the vacancy
was filled by Mr 0 Ray Besserdin. The Society expressed sincere
thanks for all the work that Mr. Barnes has done for the Society
and the achievement of its first newsletter, 'Wings and Stings'.
2. With the acceptance of the new Constitution, the Secretary shall
complete the registration of the newsletter. The registered cost
per copy shall be approximately cents per copy as against the
present 7 cents.
3. To avoid any confusion, the old name of the newsletter, 'Wings
and Stings' shall be referred to in the next few copies as being
incorporated in the Victorian Entomologist - this was proposed by
Mr. Le Souef, seconded by Mr. McCubbin.
4. To undertake the job of gathering, typing and checking inform¬
ation for the newsletter, a Publication Committee was formed at
the October meeting.
5o The Society expressed their thanks to Miss S. Beattie on the
preparation of the new Journal; Mr, Dave Crosby for the printing
of the covers, and Mr. C .McCubbin for the design of the cover.
Correspondence ; Letters were received from;
1. Mr„ Jack Barnes, dated September 22, 1971, tending his resign¬
ation as News Editor.
2. Mr„ Bo Mackness, President of the Gould League of Townsville,
Hermit Park, 4812, dated September 15, 1971> requesting inform¬
ation about the Club in order to become a member.
3. Mr„ Stuart Turner, 88 Orchard Road, Erdington, Birmingham, 1324
9JD, Harwickshire, England, received September 29, 1971, He works
for the British Government and requires a selection of Australian
tropical moths for his work.
December;, 1971
4.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
4 0 The Australian Entomological Society Division of Entomology
C.S.IoR.Oo dated September 28, 1971? requesting (a) the appointment
of a Representative Councillor to their Society's governing body.
(b; ) In preparing a 'Directory of Australian Entomology' (for
publication in time for the 14th International-Congress of Entomology
next year) they wish for an alphabetical list of all.known Australian
Entomologists, their addresses and interests, (c) Circular numbers
217, 218 (d) Journal Volume 10, Number 30, September 1971*
5 0 Father Rosanna Tazzani, dated August 10, 1971* Address: Via
XXSettembre 12, 48024 Massalombarda, (Ravenna) Italy, who wishes
to obtain butterflies and beetles from this country.
Mr« Po Williams requests that all members bring in their labelled
beetle collections to the next meeting, as he wishes to collect all
possible data to make up a beetle distribution map.
TNSECT RECORDS : -
New Record for Victoria
Meteronympha mirifica (WONDER BROWN). One fresh female taken near
Mallacoota in late January, 1971, by the edge of a lake in a ferny
area - A.D, Bishop
Last March and April while breeding Lesser Wanderers, I noticed
that all the females emerged from pinkish-gold chrysalids, and the
males from normal green pupa cases - Mark Connor
EXCURSION REPORT : October 24, 1971, Dandenong Ranges
The Forestry Commission will notify Mr. McCubbin when areas are to
be burnt, so that excursions can be made into the areas to estimate
the effects before and after the burning,. The reports will be sent
to the Forestry Commission as well as written in the Journal when
available„
5 o
December, 1971
'The Victorian Entomologist*
LATEST PUBLICATIONS :
New Books from Periwinkle ($1.50 each)
How to Photograph Australian Wildlife
Australian Bushcraft
Animal Behaviour
Biological Dictionary
Dr„ Co N„ Smithers
Norfolk Island Butterflies ($1.00 plus postage)
John Vo Peters
A Catalogue of the Type Specimens of the Hesperioidea
and Papilionoidea (Lepidoptera) in the Australian Museum
($2.00 plus postage)
Mo So Moulds
A Bibliography of the Australian Butterflies (approx. $6.0C
Mro Fred Hallgarten has Entomological pins for sale and Entomological
labels designed to fit into a type-writer at 5 cents a sheet.
As this is the last newsletter for the year, the News Editor and
Committee express their best wishes to all for an enjoyable and
rewarding season.
n ecember 1971
6 .
"The Victorian Entomologist"
SOME EFFECTS OF ABNORMAL CLIMATIC CONDITIONS
ON THE BUTTERFLY OREIXENICA CORREAE OLLIFF
By W.N.B. Quick
The apparent effects of altitudinal and local climatic variation on some
species of the genus Oriixeniaa has been commented on by a number of entom¬
ologists, largely without any positive evidence to substantiate such
assumptions-
In the course of preparation of a paper on the interrelationship of these
butterflies, and the process of speciation, it became desirable to study these
effects in some detail, as it was considered possible that apparent changes in
the physical appearance of the butterflies of various localities may be due,
at least in part, to factors more directly related to climate and soils.
To facilitate the examination of these effects, a plant of Poa australis
agg. was established in a 6-inch pot. In order to restrict growth of the grass
to something approximating alpine growth periods, winter watering was reduced
to the minimum necessary to maintain plant condition, and no nutriment was
added to the sand/loam mixture in which the plant was grown.
Oreixeniaa oorreae , a species exhibiting marked local variation, and readily
available, was selected as a suitable subject, and several worn female butter¬
flies were collected at 4700 feet on Mt. Baw Baw on March 7th., 1971. These
were brought to Glen Waverley, altitude approximately 500 feet, and liberated
in an enclosure over the grass plant. A number of eggs were laid, both on the
grass and the sides of the enclosure, and all hatched in 10-14 days, after
which the enclosure was removed.
Although the plant was examined superficially each night, the young larvae
were not observed for some weeks, although the tips of the finest leaves
appeared to have been eaten. Eventually it was found that the larvae fed only
in broad daylight, ascending the foliage at midday.
By the end of May, larvae were approximately 6mm in length, and two months
later, when feeding appeared to be restricted to the milder days, they had in¬
creased to 10mm. Early in October the grass was enclosed in a net sleeve in
order to restrict any tendency of the larvae to wander, and at this stage
larvae varied considerably in size, from one small example at 12mms up to
18-19mms. One of the larger larvae was also seen to be a pale biscuit-brown
colour, while all previously-seen larvae had been bright green.
On November 5th., it was noticed that an adult butterfly had already
emerged, an astonishing four months ahead of the date of capture of the parents,
and three months earlier than the species normally emerges in its natural
environment. Closer examination of the enclosure revealed that a further two
butterflies had previously emerged unobserved. It would seem that the brown
colour of the larva observed in October may in fact have been a phenomenon
December 1971
"The Victorian Entomologist"
associated with approaching pupation. A fourth insect emerged on November 10th.,
all to date being males. At least one almost full-grown larva remained on the
grass at this time, presumably the small one observed in October, and which may
prove to be parasitised, as it does not appear to have increased proportionately
in size over the intervening period.
The grass plant was carefully examined at this stage, and the pupal cases
collected. Of these, one example only could be described as being attached by
the cremaster, and this so lightly that suspension of the pupa would have been
precarious. Two more, also supported at random angles by grass stems and debris,
had traces of silk entangled in the hooks of the cremaster, and the fourth,
lying on the soil surface, likewise had a single strand of silk attached.
These silk traces suggest that a rudimentary suspensory pad may be formed in ail
cases, but in some may as well have derived from accidental contact with larval
silk-track. It appeares that the insect may represent a transitional stage be¬
tween those species which have a fully-suspended pupa and those more primitive
species in which the pupa lies loose on or under the soil.
The major point of interest however is that the butterflies reared under
these conditions were neither larger, nor conspicuously darker than the parent
stock, indicating that, in spite of the obvious and pronounced effect on their
metabolic rate, altitude and local climatic variation alone do not greatly or
directly influence the nhysical size of a butterfly population.
It seems likely therefore that rainfall and soil-fertility variations,
associated with some localities or seasons, and a consequent fluctuation in the
nutrient value of the food-plant, may have a more direct influence in this
respect.
December 1971
8 .
"The Victorian Entomologist
CONTROL BURNING— Long-term effect on understory flora
and associa ted insect fauna, &c.
Report of preliminary survey by Messrs. C.W. McCubbin & W.N.B. Quick, Novem er
10th., 1971.
and the 850-foot contour (approximate) to the south, to a depth of approx¬
imately 100 yards from the frontage along Bartlett Road.
This area was stated by Mr. McHugh of the Forestry Office at Kallista to be
scheduled for control burning during the latter part of 1971, having been last
burnt in 1962, although the appearance of the flora for the first 100 feet or
so from the Olinda Creek Road frontage suggests that this strip may have been
burnt more recently. In this section an abundance of Acacia myrtifolia and
Pimelea flava seedlings up to about 18 months old is accompanied by a notable
increase in monocots such as Glyceria dives, Poa sp., and Tetrarrhena regrowth.
December 1971
9 .
The Victorian Entomologist 1 *
SWEE P -NET COLLECTING:,
Swee~p-nets should be used as close to the ground as foliage permits. Approx¬
imate temperature and time of day should be noted.
Date and prevailing weather conditions must be recorded.
All insects which can be retained in a net must be retained.
All collections be confined to the perimeter of a defined and marked quadrate,
and not made from the central area.
The defined quadrate should be not less than the equivalent of a 50 foot square.
Sweep-net is a relatively unreliable method of sampling, and the above con¬
ditions are to be related to those of succeeding seasons, possibly by other
collectors.
UV-L AMP COLLECTION:
Type and watTage of lamp to be recorded:
Temperature and prevailing weather conditions to be recorded.
Time of commencement of collection to be recorded.
Date must be recorded.
Collections must be limited to one hour from commencement.
Collections must be confined to the central area of the quadrate and the lamp
unshielded from any direction.
Lamps must not be moved during collection.
All insects coming to the lamp during this period must be retained.
UV-lamp collections can produce very accurate results, and if care is taken to
collect each insect, valuable data can be obtained.
1BCANDESCENT LAMP COLLECTION:
As fo UV, above? with special attention to prevention of fire.
SETTING-UP LAMPS:
Lamps shall be set up as stated, in the central area of the marked quadrate.On
a cleared portion of ground, a five-foot square of white material should be laid
down, with the lamp centrally situated. Only those insects which come within the
perimeter of the base cloth should be collected. Insects should be collected as
they arrive in order to prevent losses to nocturnal birds and small bats &c.,
which are adept at obtaining an easy meal.
ICHNEUMONS:
The Ichneumons can provide valuable data on the relative abundance of larvae
which themselves may never be seen, and particular care should be given to
correct identification of these insects. Many can be related to some particular
host, and thus provide even more detailed data.
December 1971
10 .
"The Victorian Entomologist
Other species noted in the vicinity, and relative abundance are as follows
I-Isolated S-Scattered O-Occasional L-Local F-Frequent D-Dominant.
Acacia dealbata
melanoxvlon. seedlings
mvrtifolia
verticillata
Acrotriche depressa
Billardiera scandens
Cassinia spp. (2)
Cassvtha (? glabella)
Comesoerma volubile
Correa reflexa
Cyathea australia
Dianella
Eucalyptus obligua
radiata (?)
Gahnia sieberiana
Glyceria dives (?)
Goodenia lanata
ovata
Haloraqis tetraqyna
Le pidcTspe~rma (2 species)
Loman dra ( Xerotes) longifolia
filiformis (?)
0 (D nearby,
LO lower area
F (D nearby,
OS
0
0
0
0
0 r
F
I
0
D
D lower slope
0 Lower slope
0 Flat ground
0 Along track
F
0 Along track
F Along track
0 n it
LF " "
Along track
Upper slope
Olearia lirata
Pi melea flava
lioustrina
Platylobium obtusanqulum
Poa australis agg.
P ros tan thera lasianthos
Senecio sp.
S tackhousia monogyna
Stylidium qraminifolium
Taraxacum officinale 8.c.
Tetratheca
Tieghomopanax
T helemitra. probably aristata
Viola hederacea
0
F
0
F Along track
S Lower track
0
0 Along track
0 " "
0-F " "
p it it
O-F " "
LF
21 " "
p n n
lower)
lower)
lower area.
A Suggested Schedule for Insect Population Sampling.
Area marked 'A' is the primary study area.
Area marked ’B' which may have been burned subsequent to the 1962 fire, is of
secondary interest, and collections from this area must be stored separately
fromthose from area 'A*.
scember 1971
11 .
The Victorian Entomologist
The general appearance of the major portion of the area under observation
is that of an impenetrable mass of Spyridium and Pultenaea scabra up to a
height of some eight feet, and heavily inter-grown with Tetrarrhena. In actual
far.?-, the Pultenaea proved to be less numerous than expected, but relatively
large. Although not represented in either of the quadrate samples, it would con¬
tribute substantially to available fuel levels, and is a significant foodplant
of numerous insects.
Owing to lack of time to carry out a number of samplings, two quadrate sam¬
ples only were obtained, and notes made of other species observed, and their
relative frequencies, details of which are set out below. No collection of
insects was attempted, but a rough schedule has been formulated to produce
relatively consistent conditions for collection, and accuracy as far as poss¬
ible devoid of any human error factor.
The first of two, three foot quadrate-samples was taken some 20 yards down
a very faint track off Bartlett Road some 180 yards from its junction with
Olinda Creek Road, the exact position being on the south side of this track, and
some twelve feet north-east of a very large and conspicuous Messmate, broken at
the top and heavily forked. (Tree to be marked)
This sample comprises:
Pteris (green and moribund stems) 5
Acacia myrtifolia (dead) 8
Epacris impressa 6
Lomandra (sp." indet) 3
Comesoerma volubil e ( Bredemeyra) (stems) 3
Spyridium vexill'iferum 42
Tetrarrhena juncea (stems at ground lev.) 100
ConspicuousiyABSENTfrom sample: Pultenaea scabra 8. Correa reflexa .
The second sample was obtained lower on the slope, and some 12 feet north¬
east of a second large Messmate with a broken top, access being via a rather
better-defined track and thence through and over several yards of dense
Spyridium- Pult enaea-Tetrarrhena growth, (tree to be marked)
Sample 2 comprises:
Lomatia ilicifolia (3 seedlings, 3 stems) 6
Acacia myrtifolia~ (6 Dead, 1 moribund) 7
Comesperma volubile 1
Epacris impressa 6
Pimelea flava" '(moribund) 1
Tetr arrhena juncea (stems at ground level)51
Conspicuously" ABSENT from sample 2: Spyridium & Pultenaea .
December 1971
12.
The Victorian Entomologist
A TRIP TO HATTAH LAKES NATIONAL PARK
29 August to 11 September 1971
By D.E.A. Morton
Since the Murray River flooding in 1970 the system of lakes in the Kulkyne
Forest area has been filled and this has attracted a great deal of bird-fife
to that part of the reserve. The Lakes also provide non-drinking water or
campers and visitors to the National Park, the camping and picnic area of
which is on the shores of Lake Hattah itself. There is a large, flat area,
lined with trees, for those who prefer shade, and plenty of dead wood or ires.
There are toilets too, and although they are merely built over a pit they have
the unusual combination of toilet seats and doors which can even be locke .
Drinking water can be taken from a large rainwater tank up at the Ranger s
house, but may well be scarce at times.
The National Park itself consists almost entirely of Mallee and is
roughly wedge-shaped some fifteen miles long and five miles wide bordered on
the west by the Calder Highway and some forty miles south of Mildura. The
Kulkyne Forest, a rather degenerate mixture of open grassland and wooded strips,
consisting of 80,000 acres, lies to the north of the Park. Some of the land
near the Lakes is still being farmed, and there is a certain amount of evidence
of previous settlement. Apart from the clearing of bush that this has meant,
out of 566 different species of vegetation, listed from the Park, 102 are intro¬
duced and are flourishing, particularly on cleared ground. Pigs have gone wild
and are extremely destructive and the wild cat is an especial threat to birds
and small marsupials. Rabbits, I gather from the Ranger, have been exterminated,
but with them has gone the Wedge Tailed Eagle. Few forms of larger wild¬
life were seen by us, although we were not particularly looking: a few
kangaroos in the Kulkyne Forest, a Dragon, but no Emus, except the incomplete
skeleton of one. The birds, as mentioned above, were extremely numerous and
varied, and 197 species have been recorded from the Park.
I was mainly after butterflies and especially after a new race of Motas-
-ingha atvalba , which I had heard about from the area. This Skipper was
cuuught to have oniy an autumn brood, but while I was there the Ranger, while
showing me the foodplan tfiahnia lanigeva , immediately discovered a pupa in its
most distinctive shelter, low down on the plant and giving a definate twist to
the few red-like leaves it needs. This establishes for certain that this race
of atvalba has a spring brood as do its relatives further west. The Ranger,
Mr.N.H.E. McDonald, to whom I am very much indebted for all his help, tells me
that Mr. Couchman has described this race of atvalba which is I believe going to
be called bevooka after the Berook dune system on which the foodplant grows.
The Ranger kindly pointed out an area of Mallee outside the National Park where
I was able to obtain a few pupae. This area is between the highway and the
railway-line and extends from the station of Hattah down to the T.V. aerial
December 1971
13.
"The Victorian Entomologist”
there. I found the pupae tended to be on the tops of the ridges and on the
smaller clumps od Gahnia . They were not plentiful, and the Ranger thinks they
are still recovering from the 1967-8 drought which all but wiped out the food-
plant. I also found one large larva which pupated successfully. The only
other trace of the butterfly I could find were several small larvae. This
could suggest a yearly life-cycle, but I am not competent to say anything more.
So far the only things to have emerged from my pupae has been a parasitic waspl
The type specimens are in the Park collection, kept by Mr. McDonald.
Searching for atralha oupae kept me bent double in a sort of skipper
searcher’s stoop, and i may have missed many interesting insects in con¬
sequence. I did, however, notice some Catopsilia pyvanthe erokera both
hibernating on Mr. McDonald's Cotoneaster bushes and others flying about on
warmer days. They were all very fine specimens which might suggest that they
breed in the Park or nearby. Dodder is common in the Park and the area around,
covered in blossom at the moment and with a strange but delightful smell. I was
lucky enough to take a fine range of Erina hyaointhina simplexa which show a
marked variation in colour. I also found empty pupal cases under the bark of
Mallee infested by Dodder. Driving back to Melbourne I noticed a lot of Dodder
along the sides of the roads and I think it might be interesting to take spec¬
imens from all along the Calder Highway to establish any constant colour
changes that might occur. I also spent hours looking for pupae of Ogyris
heioitsoni mevidionalis on the Buloke and Belar in the Forest. Plenty of that
superbly camouflaged mistletoe was there and hordes of ants, but the crevices
and crannies into which the larvae can crawl are limitless. I terrified myself
several times by disturbing enormous spiders, and got the crick out of my back
but removed all the skin off my finger-ends, but all I found were one larva
that refuses to pupate or eat, one parasitized pupa, several empty pupa cases,
and two pupae which have not yet emerged.
Although the weather was cool and blustery we enjoyed our stay and I found
the Park a fascinating place. Whatever our own views on the ban on collecting
within National Parks might be, however, I cannot understand the philosophy
that allows commercial bee-keepers to operate within the Park itself and allows
the C.R.B. to make gravel pits (one I noticed must be this year’s) within it as
well. Don't tell anyone but there's gypsum there too, presumably in non¬
commercial quantities, however or.well, what's a National Park, anyway,
if there’s an easy buck to be made!
Supplied by Ranger,
Motasingha atralba berooka
Papilio anaatus
P. demo Zeus sthenelus
Catopsilia pyranthe arokera
McDonald.
Eurema smilax
Delias aganippe
Anapheis java teutonia
Pieris vapae
LIST OF BUTTERFLIES RECORDE D F ROM HATTAH LAKES NATIONAL PARK
Mr.N.H.E.
December 1971
"The Victorian Entomologist"
14.
BUTTERFLY LIST FROM HATTAH LAKES NATIONAL PARK
Danaus plexippus
D. chrysippus petalia
Heteronympha merope merope
Vanessa kershawi
V. itea
Precis villida calybe
Ogyris genoveva araxes
0. olane olane
0. hewitsoni meridionalis
(continued)
Nacaduba biocellata biocellata
Lampides boeticus
Neoluoia agricola agricola
N. serpentata serpentata
Zizina otis labradus
Zizeeria knysa karsandra
Erina hyacinthina simplexa
Cyprotus cyprotus
Microsaena heathi heathi
November 3 1971
'The Victorian Entomologist"
The Australian Entomological Society is preparing a "Directory of Austral¬
ian Entomology" for publication in time for the 14th. International Congress
of Entomology next year. The Directory will include an alphabetical list of
all known Australian entomologists 3 their adresses and interests.
If you wish your name to be included on this list 3 please complete the
following
NAME:
ADRESS:
INTEREST: (General 3 Family 3 Species 3 etc.)
Please send or hand this information to the Secretary
as soon as possible.
(Miss. S. Beattie)
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF VICTORIA CONSTITUTION
1. NAME The name of the Society shall he "The Entomological Society of
Victoria".
2. OBJECT (a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion of entomology
in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of all Australian
species of insects.
(c) To compile and maintain a list of all known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific atmosphere all
persons interested in entomology.
3. MEMBERSHIP Shall consist of:
(a) Ordinary Members
(b) Junior Members
(c) Student Members
(d) Country or Associate Members
(e) Honorary Members
(f) Exchange Members
(g) Joint Members
(a) Ordinary Members are persons over the age of 21 years
paying an annual subscription to the Society.
(b) Junior Members are persons under the age of 21 years,
paying an annual subscription to the Society.
(c) Student Members are persons over the age of 21 years,
and who are bone fide full-time students of a college
or university, paying an annual subscription to the
Society.
(d) Country or Associate Members are persons who, through
force of circumstance, are unable to attend Meetings
of the Society regularly, paying subscription to the
Society.
(e) Honorary Members are those persons duly elected by the
Society, who have rendered or are rendering, distin¬
guished service to the Society, or to the cause of
Entomology. These persons are to be entitled the same
priviledges as Ordinary, Junior, Student or Country
Members without subscribing an annual fee to the
Society.
Honorary members shall be approved by the Council and
elected by a two-thirds majority at an Annual or
Ordinary meeting. The number of Honorary Members at
any one time shall not exceed 10% of the total
membership of the Society.
2 .
(f) Exchange Members shall be only those Clubs or Affiliated
Societies Interested In Entomology 3 and who send their
own magazine to the Society In exchange for the
"Victorian Entomologist".
(g) Joint Membership may be granted In the case of more than
one member of a family being members of the Society. Under
this sub clause 3 the Council may grant a fee concession to
the second and successive members of a family.
4. NOMINATION AND ELECTION
Applicants for membership shall be nominated and seconded by 2 financial
members at any ordinary or annual general meetlng 3 and shall be elected
at the succeeding meeting. Election shall be by vote taken on a show of
hands 3 or by ballot If such Is demanded by at least 3 financial members
of the Society. The nominee shall be declared elected If a majority In
favour is obtained.
5. SUBSCRIPTIONS
All Annual subscriptions shall be fixed by the Council of the Society.
All financial 3 honorary and exchange members shall receive the Society's
publlcatlon 3 "The Victorian Entomologist".
All subscriptions shall be payable In advance at the Annual General
Meeting. The financial year shall terminate on 31st Dec.
6. TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
Membership of the Society will be deemed to have terminated If any
member tenders a written resignation to the Secretary t or if any
member Is not financial after 90 days. Renomination and re-election
will be required of persons who resign and wish to rejoin the Society.
Persons who are unflnanclal for 2 consecutive years may renew their
membership by payment of all subscriptions which are In arrears.
7 . THE COUNCIL
(a) The management of the Society shall be vested In the Council.
(b) The Council shall compose of the President 3 Vice President 3
Immediate Past-President 3 Honorary Secretary 3 Honorary
Treasurer 3 Hews Editor and 8 other Councillors.
(c) The Council shall meet bl-monthly 3 or as often as may be
practicable and desirable.
(d) The Council shall have the power to make By-Laws with respect
to the Publication of the "Victorian Entomologist" 3 or any
other matters consistent with the objects of the Society.
3.
8. ELECTION OF THE COUNCIL
(a) The Council members shall be appointed at the Annual General
Meeting of the Society.
(b) Nominations, in writing, and signed by the proposer, seconder
nominee, must be in the hands of the Secretary 7 days prior
to the Annual meeting.
(c) If there are insufficient written nominations, then nomin¬
ations may be accepted at the Annual General meeting.
(d) If there are vacancies on the Council, occurring at the close
of the Annual General meeting, or for any other reason during
the Societies year, then these vacancies may be filled by
invitation.
(e) Office-bearers may be dismissed from Office, by a 75%
majority vote, at a meeting called specially for the purpose,
for which 7 days notice has been given.
9. OFFICE-BEARERS
The PRESIDENT shall:
(a) Chair all meetings of the General and Committee Meetings.
The VICE-PRESIDENT shall:
(a) Deputize in the absence of the President.
The SECRETARY shall:
(a) Keep records of the names and addresses of all members of
the Society.
(b) Make the necessary arrangements for meetings, and give due
notice of all meetings.
(c) Keep Minutes of the proceedings of Council and General
meetings.
(d) Transmit to the News Editor any material for publication
in the "Victorian Entomologist".
(e) Notify members concerning their subscriptions.
(f) Generally transact the routine business of the Society.
The TREASURER shall:
(a) Collect and receive all monies on behalf of the Society and
deposit these without any deduction whatsoever in a bank
approved by the Executive.
(b) Maintain records of all financial transactions.
4.
(a) Keep a record of members indicating their current financial
status.
(d) Present a cash statement at each General and Committee meeting.
(e) Make payments of all accounts approved for payment; such
payment being make by cheque, and signed by either the
Treasurer or the President.
(f) Set aside from the subscription of each member a sum equivalent
to $1.00 per financial member per annum of the total as a
subscription to the "Victorian Entomologist",. and he shall
cause these sums to be separately, accounted in the yearly
balance sheet and to be duly audited.
The NEWS EDITOR shall:
(a) Prepare and publish the "Victorian Entomologist" every second
month of the year, prior to the General meeting.
(b) Ensure that the cost of publication is kept within any limit¬
ations set by the Council.
(c) Furnish the Council with a statement of expenditure of each
issue of the Newsletter.
(d) Arrange for the distribution of the "Victorian Entomologist"
to all members entitled to receive it.
tr-
10. MEETINGS An Ordinary General meeting shall be held on the second last
Friday of each second month, and/or at such other times as
shall be deemed advisable by the Council. The annual general
meeting shall be held in February of each year.
At least 7 days notice of meetings is to be given to members
by the Secretary.
11. QUORUM At Ordinary and Annual meetings, 15 members, and at Council
meetings, 5 members shall form a quorum for the transacting
of any business.
12. ALTERATION OF CONSTITUTION
The foregoing shall not be altered, suspended or added, to
except at an annual general meeting or at an Extraordinary
meeting called for such purpose by the Executive, and. then
only when written notice of the amendment has been given
to the Secretary at least one month prior to the meeting
at which the proposed amendment is to be made.
13. DISSOLUTION
The Society shall not be dissolved or its name changed,without
the consent of % of the members present at an Extraordinary
General meeting of members called for that purpose.
5.
The proceeds arising from the winding up of the Society,
after all costs and debts have been paid, shall be
distributed amongst such charitable and/or scientific
institutions, and in such amounts 3 as the Council in their
absolute discretion, shall decide. No member shall be
entitled to share in, or receive any benefit, therefrom.
BY-LAW :
There shall be a Society newsletter entitled "The Victorian
Entomologist", which shall be issued at bi-monthly intervals
It shall be forwarded to all financial and honorary members,
and associations with which the Society has exchange arrange
ments. Not more than 25% of all copies issued each month
shall be despatched to non-members of the Society.
An amount of $1.00 per annum shall be included in the
annual subscriptions of each members.
This $1. 00 per annum shall be set apart for the newsletter,
and be separately accounted for in the Annual Balance Sheet,
and be duly audited.
Passed at a meeting held
on 22.10.71. at Conference
Room, Nat. Museum Melbourne.
Chas. McCubbin
Hon. President
Miss S. Beattie
Hon. Secretary.
Date: 22.10.71.
.
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
VOL: 2: NO. 1
FEB. 1972.
Price 20c
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
. . en tomo1ogy in all its aspects.
(bj To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members .. _ $3.00.
Country or Associate members " . . ! $1.00.
Junior members .. .. _ < $1.00.
Student members .. * * $1.00.
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations'shoul d be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
LITTLE LONSDALE ST ONE WAY->
1 .
February,1972 "The Victorian Entomologist"
V.E.S ACTIVITIES
OFFICE BEARERS
President: Mr. Chas. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth. (89 9171)
Vice President: Mr David Holmes.
Immediate Past-President: Mr. Peter Kelly.
Hon. Secretary: Miss Sue Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris, 3146 (50 5263)
Hon. Editor: Mr. Ray Besserdin, 35 Quinn St., Heidelberg, 3084
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. Bob Condon, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. 3129
Committee: Mr. Bob Thompson, Mr. Arthur Hall, Mr. Fred Hallgarten,
Miss Jenny Forse, Mr. Zoo. LeSouef.
Editorial Committee: Mr. Chas. McCubbin, Miss S. Beattie. Mr. R. Besserdin
Mr. P. Williams, Mr. A. Bishop, Mr. J.Wainer.
The "Victorian Entomologist" incorporates "Wings and Stings".
COMING EVENTS :
Friday, Febuary 18, 1972
Annual General Meeting, Member's night. (N.B. Election of Office Bearers.)
MEETING DATES FOR 1972 :
April 21, 1972
June 16, 1972 (Third Friday of the month)
August 18, 1972
October 20, 1972
December 15, 1972 (Third Friday of the month)
2 .
February, 1972 "The Victorian Entomologist"
REPORTS AND NOTICES :
General Meeting■, Friday, November 19th. , 1971
The President chaired the Meeting at which 30 members and friends attended.
Apologies were received from Mr. N. Quick and Mr.A.Haffenden.
As this meeting was the last for the year, a Member 's Right was held.
Exhibits shown:
Mr. R. Besserdin: Hymenoptera
Mr.F. Hallgarten: A selection of Longicorns from Australia.
Mr.D. Crosby: Parasitic Flies and Wasps.
Mr.R. Manskie: Butterflies from Nhill and Big Desert (Victoria),
and a selection of slides of Orchids and Beetles.
NEW MEMBERS: We wish to welcome to the Society the following new members:
Mr. Malcolm Moss, P.O. Box 2807AA, Melbourne. (Interest, Ants)
Nigel and Randal Delaney, 73 Park Road, Cheltenham
Miss Susan Meier, 73 Grey Street, East Melbourne
Miss L. Barraclough. Flat 4/ 104 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn.
(The Secretary wishes to apologize for previously ommitting Miss Meier and
Miss Barraclough from the Member's List last year.
CORRESPONDANCE:„ , . , „
Correspondance was recevved from:
(1) Alison Cook, Box 106, Numurkah, Vic., dated 17.11-71, requesting
details of joining the Society-
(2) Journal of "The Australian Entomological Society", Vol.10,No. 4
Dec.1971.
(3) News Bulletin of "The Australian Entomological Society",Vol. 7
Part 4, Nov. 1971.
(4) Circular 219 from "The Entomological Society of Australia!N.S.V)
Dec. 1971.
(5) . Fumio Miyasaka. Sitamiti Nisindoo Hp. Ueda-c. Nagano-p.JAPAN
Dated 13.10.1971. Mr. Miyasaka is a dealer in Butterflies, and
wishes an exchange or to receive orders at 40% discount. Price list included.
(6) Journal of "The Entomological Society Of Australia" Vol.7,1971
(7) T.I.E.G. (Teen International Entomology Group) newsletter.
Vol.6, No.l. and Membership List for January 1971. Editor •- Miss Colleen Seeley
47 Woodside Avenue, Oneonta, N.Y., U.S.A. 13820
(8) E. W. Classey Book Catalogue. 353 Hanworth Road, Hampton, Middlesex,
ENGLAND.
3.
February, 1972 "The Victorian Entomologist"
THE NEWSLETTER:
(1) If you wish your name to be included, on the Australian Entom¬
ological Name List which was printed in the last issue of this Newsletter, please
return the information by the end of February.
(2) Only one Newsletter may be sent to members. Any extra copies
shall cost 20c. each.
(3) When submitting any articles to the Journal, it is essential
that where a scientific name is given, a common name must also be included.
(4) Several people shall be deleted from the Member's List
if they do not become financial.In accordance with the G.P.O. postal regulations,
no member shall receive a Newsletter if they fail to pay their subscription
this month, and shall cease to become a member 90 days after the Annual General
. • Meeting.
(5) A Member's List is being prepared and will be printed in a future
Newsletten
******************
Mr. A. Nebois of the Melbourne Museum spoke on a programme being conducted in Europe
which is to be undertaken in Australia. An area (e.g. Victoria) would be divided
Into 10 km. grids, or '10 minute geographical grids, and all entomological data
would be studied. This programme would involve the co-operation of both amateur
and professional entomologists, and shall be arranged at a later date.
******************
NEW PUBLICATIONS:
"Jamaica And Its Butterflies"
F.Martin Brown and Bernard Heineman. Available from E.W.Classey.
£16. 50 (U. K.)
"Butterflies of New Zealand"
W.B.R.Laidlaw 1970. Available from E.W.Classey.
£1. 40(U.K.)
"Butterflies Of The Australian Region"
Bernard D'Abrera. Published by Lansdowne Press.
$29. 50
*****************
lebruary, 1972
4.
The Victorian Entomologist'
STATEMEN T OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31st. DECEMBER. 1971 .,
Credit balance brought
forward. $ 20.47
Add receipts.
Interest received
during 1970.
Interest received
during 1971.
Subscriptions received
during 1971.
Donations.
.91
.51
$98.50
.30
$120.69
Less expenditure
Department of Lands(Rent)
$ 8.40
Secretaries expenses(Printing,
postage, telephone, sundries.
$32.92
Australian Entomological
Society subscription.
$ 10.00
Cheque book and stamps.
$ 2.25
Library Council rent.
$ 20.00
Printing, postage of
"Wings and Stings"
$25.85
Credit balance carried forward.
$21.27
$120.69
AUDITOR'S REPORT:
To the Members of the Society,
I have examined the above Statement of Cash Receipts
and Payments for the year ending 31st December, 1971, and have
obtained all the information that I have required.
In my opinion the above Statement summarizes fairly
the financial transactions of the Society.
H.R.COLLYER A.C.A.
5 o
February, 1972 “The Victorian Entomologist*
Description of the larval and pupal stages of
Swainson, the “Small Copper 9 .
(Lepidoptera, family Lycaenidae)»
Foodplant: The diminutive matted form of Oxalis corniculata.
Locality: Djerriwarrh Creek Gorge, near Bacchus* Marsh, Vic.
Date: January 3, 1972. Larvae, pupae and imagines present-
Larva : Sub-cylindrical, tapering abruptly at either end.
Posterior segments markedly flattened. Rather bristly, the setae longer,
darker and more numerous towards the extremities, sparse on the dorsal
surface. A pair of yellowish extensile organs laterally situated on the
flattened dorsal area of the twelfth segment.
Grey-green above, a broad and prominent stripe down either side,
violet-black edged white and narrowly outlined dark brown. Frontal
shield with a conspicuous almost"circular marking, violet-black edged
white, and bisected dqrsally. Two faint dorsal lines, dark brown,
close together and confluent between seqments. Under-surf^'-;, ' right
green. 16-18 mm x 4-5 mm.
Larvae are attended by Iridomyrmex(species indeterminate ),
a common garden species within suburbia, and feed openly during the day,
often towards noon, the ants running all over them, biting at the
larvae but apparently quite unheeded. When not feeding, larvae rest an
inch or so below the surface in ant-tunnels close to the foodplant.
Pupation takes place in the same situation, or in ant-galleries under
nearby logs, stones or even dry cow-manure.
Pupa: Smooth, and without conspicuous markings. Wing-cases prominent.
Abdominal section with a rather inflated appearance, slightly con¬
stricted between segments, and dimpled above each spiracle. Head,
thorax and abdomen olive to yellow—green, wing cases yellow.
Apparently lies loose within the pupal site.
10-11 mm x 3.5 -4 mm. ( Male pupae slightly smaller. )
W.N.B.Quick.
January, 1972.
Publication rights reserved.
February 1972
6 .
'The Victorian Entomologist*
Some notes on the life-history of
Pseudalmenus myrsilus zephyrus Waterhouse & Lyell 1914
(Lepidoptera, family Lycaenidae.)
The "Victorian Hairstreak".
By W.N.B. Quick.
This butterfly was previously referred to as P. chlorinda zephyrus. by
which name it was formerly known.
In the course of preparing photographic records of the life-histories of
some Australian butterflies, some difficulty was experienced in locating pupae
of the Victorian Hairstreak, Pseuda l menus myrsilus zephyrus .
In areas such as Kallista, Ferntree Gully, Gisborne, Healesville and
Warragul, where the butterfly has been taken in past seasons, no trace could
be found. The environmental conditions appeared favourable, and in each case
there seemed little reason why the butterfly should not be present, even in
reduced numbers, for the species is prone to periods of decline and occasional
population explosions. Certainly, I had postponed my search until the more con¬
venient winter months, when little else could be accomplished, and consequently
did not have the full activity of the attendant ant, Iridomvrex foeta ns. to guide
me.
Subseauently, at a meeting of the E.S.V., Mr. Ray Manskie mentioned that he
had frequently taken pupae of the butterfly through the Acheron Valley early in
October. He, like Couchman, had located them under bark of Eucalyptus viminalis,
close to ant-trails, and at a distance of up to 10 metres from "the nearest food-
tree, in this case Acacia melanoxylon . He had never found them actually on the
Acacia itself. I have, on one occasion, found it on Acacia dealbata at Kallista.
Ray Manskey's information was followed up several days later near the
Cathedral Range, working back towards Buxton. Very few of the Manna Gums examin¬
ed had any trace of the ant even nearby, and on these trees I failed to locate
any indication of presence of the butterfly. Charles McCubbin, however, who was
camped near the Cathedrals at the time, reported that he had found four pupae
under the bark of the first Eucalyptus he had searched. By this time. I was
seriously beginning to doubt my own competance and eyesight, and elected to
concentrate on a much smaller area, meticulously examining each tree, Acacia s
included, in the little time remaining. The area selected was on the fringe of
an open, well-watered section of forest composed mainly of peppermints.
Eucalyptus dives and E. radiata, Manna Gum, and Yellow Box, E.melliodora,
with Acacia melanoxylon as a frequent associate, interspersed with A.dealbata.
The first tree searched, as it happened, was in fact a Blackwood, in the
hollow trunk of which'was found a substantial nest of Iridomyrmex foetans . In
secondary cracks, and under bark, but not attended by ants, I located three empty
pupal shells and two pupae. No further pupae were located on this tree, for
although they may well have been present in the hollows, the inevitable damage
to the tree while locating them seemed unwarranted. Nor were any located on
nearby Eucalyptus, which, however were of large size, with loose bark con¬
tinuing far beyond normal reach.
7.
‘The Victorian Entomologist*
February 1972
Search of the second group of blackwoods revealed no sign whatever of
any ants, but some were noticed near the base of a moderately large manna
gum some twelve feet from the nearest blackwood, and a single pupa, unattend¬
ed by ants, was located under loose bark some eight feet from the ground. Still
furtheraway, and roughly equidistant from several large blackwoods, several
ants were observed wandering on the trunk of a large Eucalyptus dives, and
a single pupa was found in a deep fissure of the fibrous bark, some 6 feet
(2 metres) from the ground, and again unattended by ants. A group of four
pupae was found on a nearby E.viminali s in a similar situation. In the last
of the daylight, Charles McCubbin and I found two additional pupae on
Eucalyptus radiata near a group of blackwoods. A few roving ants were noticed
nearby.
My notes, to this point, were forwarded to Mr. Gooding for comment, for his
has been the rare privelege of having the species 'right in his own backyard*
for more years than I can remember. In his letter of reply, and from which I
quote, he expresses the opinion:
" The little colonies that you and Charles (McCubbin) are finding, where¬
by you are getting 2, 3, or 4 pupae, are only'breakaways 8 from the main colony,
where fertile females on a mating flight have flown a considerable distance, and
and not returned to the host tree. The edge of forest, or small clearings witha
good regrowth, are good places to search, but not the forest generally speaking.
I do not hold to the idea that pupae are found generally under the bark of
Eucalyptus."
It would seem that larvae are influenced by the ants in selection of a
site for pupation, and have a tendency to seek a site near the centre of the
ants activities at the time of pupation. If the ants have a nest within the host
tree itself, most larvae will pupate under such cover as exists on the tree
itself, ( Gooding reports having ' once found a piece of blackwood bark in a
crevice of a blackwood tree that fielded 58 pupae’). A few follow the ants* work
trail to nearby trees where the ants are seasonally tending scale-insects or
a honey-flow, and pupate on these trees which will later be abandoned by the
ants as -forage dictates. Such may have been some of the small groups found
close to blackwoods.
If, on the other hand,ants are merely tending larvaeon the foodplant, but
have their nest elsewhere, larvae, when ready to pupate, will leave the host tree
and follow the ants back towards the centre of activity on whatever tree they
may be currently working, and pupate there. Consequently, at this time of the
year ( mid-August ) pupae may well be found on trees which appear completely
unattended by ants. Early summer may doubtless produce a very different pict¬
ure as the ants return to a repetition of their anual forage cycle. This
pattern of behaviour of the larvae is in accord with Mr. Goodings own obser¬
vations. He adds that he has the species from the additional localities of
Yinnar, Boolarra, Hazelwood, and that the specimens from Warragul are very
much darker than those from Moe.
For those not familiar with the species, it seems largely confined to
February 1972
8 .
'The Victorian Entomologist'
host-trees close to water, although for no obvious reason. Gooding suggests
that trees with dead and decaying tops will harbour the largest colonies.
Iridomyrmex foetans is dark grey, variable in size but usually 6-7mm in
length, with a shiny, heart-shaped abdomen. Blowing on the ants sends them into
a frenzy of excitementas they race around to investigate the source of the
disturbance, abdomens held high in the air and omitting a strong 'anty' smell.
Following Mr. Gooding's letter, Charles McCubbin and I investigated a
further area near St.Fillans, where a much larger colony was located, the ants'
nest being in a blackwood, and the pupae in a cavity at the base of a Eucalyptus
ovata. Swamp Gum growing hard against it. A single pupa was found on a small
blackwood some distance away.
December 1971.
Subsequent to the foregoing notes being compiled, it has been verified
that Iridomyrmex foetans does in fact seasonally rotate its forage areas,
and are at this time of the year, (January), again working trees on which
butterfly pupae but no ants were located earlier in the year.
On one such tree. Eucalyptus viminalis , a piece of bark six feet above
ground level was removed, exposing several larvae and some hundreds of ants, in
addition to the remains of at least one generation of pupae. One of the larvae
was already preparing to pupate, but the others little more than half-grown,
and obviously still feeding. For each meal they must therefore have made a
round trip from cover to the nearest Acacia foliage, and return, of at least
65 feet!
W.N.B. Quick January 1972.
COMMON NAMES OF PLANTS NOT GIVEN IN TEXT :
Acacia dealbata-: Silver Wattle
" melanoxylon: Blackwood
Eucalyptus dives: Blue Peppermint
" viminalis: Manna Gum
9.
February, 1972
'The Victorian Entomologist'
Notes on the Butterflies of Weipa, North Queensland
6 to 18 June 1969 by C.W. McCubbin*
Weipa lies only 12 degrees below the equator and is situated on the western
side of Cape York Penninsula 360 miles north west of Cairns. The low lying,flat
countryside is for the most part open Eucalyptus forest with a scattering of
Pandanus or Screw Pines and other trees. There are numerous rounded,white-ant
mounds, often Venetian red in colour, reflecting the underlying bauxite. Waist
high grass grows beneath the trees in the more open forest areas, and, at the
time of my visit, the yearly burn-off by grazing interests was in progress.
Along the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria and the larger esturies there are
mangroves in many places, immediately behind these there are usually a few
large Hibiscus and behind these again a very narrow strip of rain-forest trees.
Where there is an open beach rather than mangroves, Melaleucas are the dominant
trees for the first fifty yards or so above the high tide zone, beneath them
grow shrubs including Alnhitonias and various species of figs. Apart from the
strips of rain-forest trees behind the mangroves, there are occasional patches
of rather hungry and dry-looking, rain or monsoon-forest, usually these have
only a few vines and no epiphytes, except for an odd orchid on a dead branch
(most of these have long since been pulled down and taken away to perish under
the eaves of houses). No grass worth speaking of grows under the darker canopy
of these monsoon-forest patches and the ground is frequently stony. The larg¬
est patch I located was close behind the beach; about three miles long and up
to half a mile wide. It contained a large variety of trees and many more vines
than any of the smaller patches I had seen. I came across numerous mounds of
Jungle fowl, but all had been broken open, aparently by feral pigs. The day
was overcast with several short spells of fine rain, but never-the-lees,this
patch provided a greater number of butterfly species than any ocher are& in
which I collected while at Weipa. In one part I particularly remember the Black
and White Flats ( Taqiades iapetus) which I frightened up in dozens as I passed,
so that, whenever I looked back, the air would be everywhere punctuated with the
jerky flight of these conspicuous insects, which are so prominent one moment
and then disappear completely as they settle again on the undersides of leaves.
The open forest grassland provided few species although the Bush Browns ( Mical -
esis) where very abundant and in some areas the little Sulphurs ( Eurema) were
also common. The Black Spotted Grass-blue ( Zize e ria alsulus alsulus) and the
Blue Argus fPrecis ori thya albicincta) were also fairly numerous, the former
mainly near the coast. When I arrived (6 June) Red-bodied Swallowtails ( Pachi-
optera polydorus quee n slandicus j were a common sight, flying steadily along
about eight or ten feet from the ground, but at the end of my stay,when I
decided I should try and take a ,specimen,I could not locate a single example.
The Northern Jezabel was also met in open country but not commonly, I saw
only about six while I was there. A rather swampy area along a creek within a
few minutes walk of Weipa township was the haunt of several species of
Daneid_(Tigers and Crowa). They showed little activity and the Euploeas (Crows)
were usually at rest on the dead twigs of Melaleucas . The great majority of
specimens captured were associated with monsoon-forest or the thin strip of
rain-forest trees behind the Mangroves or along the creeks.
February, 1972
10 .
’The Victorian Entomologist*
Most of the time spent at Weipa was taken up with painting plants
and impressions of the country and the actual time spent collecting amounted
to two full days and three half days. I did not capture many examples of
any one species, except, as in the case of Mycalesis perseus , where I tried
to obtain a full range of intergrades between the we~t and dry season forms.
List of Butterfly Species Collected at Weipa North Queensland
6-18 June 1969
Family Nymphalidae:
Danaus aff1n i s a ffinis
,, chrysippus petilia
Euploea darchia nivea ta
,, core corinna
,, eichorni
Hypolymnas alimena lamina
,, misippus
Precis hedonia zelima
,, orithya albicincta
,, villida calybe
Phaedyma shepherdi latifasciata
Pantoporia venilia moorei
Tellervo zoilus qelo
Melanitis leda ban kia
Mycalesis terminus terminus
,, perseus perseus
Ypthima arctous arctous
Hypocysta adiante adiante
Family Lycaenidae:
Erina erina erina
Philiris innotatus evinculis
Danis hymetus taletum
Jalmenus eichorni
? d*
Euchrysops cnejus cnidus
Anthene seltuttus affinis
Catochrysops panormus platissa
Zizeeria alsulus alsulus
Narathura micale amphis
,, araxes eupolis
Hypolycaena phorbas phorbas
Theclinesthes probably onycha but very small
Two other lycaenid species (one specimen each) not yet identified.
Black and White Tiger
Lesser Wanderer
White-margined Crow
Common Australian Crow
Eichorn’s Crow
Blue-banded Eggfly
Danaid Eggfly
Brown Soldier
Blue Argus
Meadow Argus
Common Aeroplane
Cape York Aeroplane
Cape York Hamadryad
Evening Brown
Orange Bush-brown
Dingy Bush-brown
Dingy Ring
Orange Ringlet
Small Dusky Blue
Common Moonbeam
Small Green-banded Blue
Northern Imperial Blue
Cupid
Dark Ciliate Blue
Forget-me-not
Black-Spotted Grass-blue
Common Oakblue
Dull Oakblue
Common Tit
13
1
1
2
1
2
2
2
2
1
3
1
1
1
2
1
1
3
12
1
1
2
1
5
3
3
2
2
1
2
2
6
2
11 .
’The Victorian Entomologist*
February, 1972
Family Pieridae
Eurema laeta lineata
,, hecabe phoebus
Elodina perdita perdita
Catopsilia scylla etesia
,, pomona pomona
Appias paulina ega
Cepora perimale scyllara
Delias arqenthona argenthona.
$
Line Grass Yellow 2
Common Grass Yellow 5
Northern Pearl White
Orange Migrant
Lemon Migrant
Common Albatross 1
Australian Gull
Northern Jezabel sighted on the wing.
1
1
Family Papilionidae
Papilio aeoeus aeqeus Orchard Butterfly 1
— In addition to P.aeqeus , P.ulysses joesa, Ulysses Butterfly;
Cressida cressida cressida , Big Greasy and P achlioptera polydorus queensland-
icus were also sighted in the area.
Family Hesperiidae
Tagiades iapetus janetta Black and White Flat 3 3
Hasora chromus chromus Common Banded Awl 1
Cephrenes trichopeplcT * Yellow Palmdart 1
Pelopidas lyelli lyelli Lyell's Swift 1
Telicota species undetermined 1
in in ■'T cm
'
oti. ^ :
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
VOL. 2: NO. t
APRIL 1972
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects .
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members .. .. .. .. $3.00.
Country or Associate members * .. .! $1.00.
Junior members .. .. .. • $1.00.
Student members .. .. .. ’’ $1.00.
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to a 11 persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
LATROBF 5T
wc!\\
RADIO CARBONATING LAB
CONFERENCE ROOM
CHIMNEY
ENTER COURTYARD HERE
LITTLE LONSDALE ST ONE WAY-Y
April, 1972.
The Victorian Entomologist
CONTENTS PAGE
Page
Coming Events 1
Reports and Notices 2
Election of Office Bearers 2
Exhibits 3
Excursion to Cardenia Creek 5
The Phigalia Skipper, TPAPEZITES PHIGALIA PHIGALIA
N. Quick 5 C. McCubbin. 7
Botany for Entorologists J.F. Hutchinson 9
1 .
April;1972. "The Victorian Entomologist"
VE.S. ACTIVITIES.
OFFICE BEARERS FOR 1972 .
President: Mr. C. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth. C89 9171)
Vice President: Mr. A. Morton
Hon. Secretary: Miss. S. Beattie, 2 Clyde St. 3 Glen Iris 3 3146 (50 5263)
Hon Editor: Mr. R. Besserdin 3 35 Quinn St. 3 Heidelberg 3 3084. - (459 3176)
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. B. Condon 3 96 Shannon St. 3 Box Hill Nth. 3 3129.
Immediate Past-President: Mr. P. Kelly.
Committee: Mr. A. Hall 3 Mr. F. Hallgarten 3 Mr. J. Hutchinson 3 Mr. J. LeSouef 3
Mr. B. Thompson.
Editorial Committee: Miss. S. Beattie 3 Mr. R. Besserdin 3 Mr. A. Bishop 3
Mr. C. McCubbin 3 Mr. J. Wainer, Mr. P. Williams.
The "Victorian Entomologist" encorporates "Wings and Stings"
The statements and opinions expressed in this Journal are the views of the
respective authors 3 and not necessarily those of the Society.
COMING EVENTS :
Friday 3 April 21 3 1972
General Meeting 3 "Butterfly Food Plants" Speaker Mr. Nigel Quick.
Sunday 3 April 23, 1972
Excursion. Yellowdindi/Murrindindi area. (Weather permitting)
MEETING DATES FOR 1972:
June 16, 1972 (Third Friday of the month)
"Aquatic Insects" Speaker Mr.P.Genery.
August 18, 1972
October 20, 1972
December 15, 1972 (Third
Friday of the month)
April, 1972
2.
The Victorian Entomologist'
REPORTS AND NOTICES:
General Meeting, Friday, February 18th., 1972. The President chaired
the meeting at which 34 members and friends attended. Apologies were receiv¬
ed from Mr. A. Hall, Mr. T. Morton, Miss J. Forse, Mr. G. Burns, Mr. J.
Barnes and Mr. D. Crosby.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed.
NEW MEMBERS: We wish to welcome the following new members:
1. Mr. Peter Lillywhite, 9 White St, Mt, Waverley. 3149.
Interest: butterflies.
2. Mr. D. Black, 3 Eyre Court, Lower Templestowe. 3107.
3. Victorian Plant Research Institute, Swan St, Burnley. 3121.
CORRESPONDENCE: was received from
1. Mr. Jim Tuttle, 227 Theadore, Monroe. MICH. 48161. U.S.A.
who is interested in locating serious collectors who rear
Satumiidae.
2. Mr. Kaoru Sakakibara, Hanazona Enzyoji-cho. 12-9 Ukyo,
KYOTO 616 JAPAN who is a 17 year old student wishing to
exchange Australian butterflies for those of Japan.
3. Mr. Thor. Steinar Jensen, Kirkeveienl25, 1370 ASKER -NORWAY
wishes to exchange Norwegian butterflies for Australian
butterflies, moths and beetles.
4. Circular of the Entomological Soc. of Australia,March '72
No. 221,
5. Circular requesting early enrolement of local entomologists
to the 14th International Congress of Entomology to be
held in Canberra August 22-30, 1972. Refer enrolements
• to the Secretary, Mr. C. Smithers, Australian Museum,
College St, Sydney. 2000.
6 . Constitution, By-Laws, Members List of the Australian Entom.
Soc. Received 7.3.72.
7. State and National Libraries requesting Victorian Entomologist.
ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS:
All Office Bearers were returned to office. With the retirement
of Mr. D. Holmes as Vice-President, his office was filled by Mr.A.Morton
- preposed by C. Mc.Cubbin, seconded by Z. LeSouef, and with the retire¬
ment of Miss J. Forse from the Committee, her position was filled by
Mr. J. Hutchinson, proposed by Mr. R. Besserdin seconded by Mr.N.Quick.
Mr. LeSouef wished Office Bearers every success for their coming term
of office.
April, 1972.
3.
'The Victorian Entomologist *
THE NEWSLETTER:
The format of articles for the Newsletter was discussed and it was
proposed that a Contents page appear with each Journal, with an Index at
the end of the Volume,
Mrs. LeSouef congratulated those responsible for all the work on
the Journal.
EXCURSIONS:
As excursions are going to be planned well in advance, and at least
every second month, if you have any ideas of suitable areas for day, week¬
end or longer trips,could you please bring this information to the next
meeting. Accompanying maps and other written details of meeting times,
i train times, etc. would be appreciated.
SPEAKERS FOR MEETINGS:
It was proposed that speakers be obtained to discuss all aspects
relating to Entomology e.g. food plants, parasites.
The Society expressed their congratulations to Miss Jenny Force
on her recent marriage to Mr. John Barnett and expressed their sincere
wishes to the speedy recovery of Mr. J. Barnes and G. Burns from their
illness.
Mr. A. Nebois mentioned that the 10 K.m. maps were not yet available
for the data programme and that Dr. Smith will give a future talk on the
subj ect.
EXHIBITS:
G. Me.Connell - Tailed Emporer Butterfly.
R. Besserdin - Gall-Making wasp from Golden Acacia.
Mr. R. Manskie - Exhibited 22 species of moths and butterflies
collected in the Cann River area 28.12.71 - 8.1.72. This
was a new locality for Heteronympha mirifica Wonder Brown.
Mr, N. Quick. Jalmenus evagoras . Common Imperial Blue. A small
'spray' of pupae from a defoliated plant of Aaaoia dealbata.
Hundreds of such colonies were seen at Taggerty and Mirimhah
(Vic.) with a black Iridomyrmex ant.
Jalmenus ictinusf Ictinus Blue. Taken from Thornton (Vic.).
An irregular visitor to the Kerrisdale - Acheron area. Small
colonies were seen on Acacia dealbata - Silver Wattle
attended by the meat ant, Iridomyrmex detectus. If both
J. evagoras and J. ictinus are present this ant takes over
both species.
April, 1972.
4.
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The Victorian Entomologist
Correction to P. 5, February 'Victorian Entomologist'. Heading should
read "Description of the larval and pupal stages of Luoia Zimbavia Swainson,
the 'Small Copper". (Xepidoptera, family Lycaenidae).
Victorian Occurrence of
POLYURA PYRRHUS SEMPRONIUS
(FABRICIUS) 1793
(LEPIDOPTERA : NYMPHALIDAE : CHARAXINAE)
Tailed Emperor
by Glynn Me.Connell
Received 18/2/72
One male caught and two others seen in Beaumaris. Their habits were typical
of the Tailed Emperor - flying powerfully and fairly high. They often landed
on a half-dead gum tree, sucking up the sap. The male was caught in early
January and had been around for nearly a month - Glynn McConnell.
April, 1972.
5,
The Victorian Entomologist
EXCURSION TO CARDINIA CREEK SUNDAY 27th. FEBRUARY 1972
The area concerned adjoins a tributary
of Cardinia Creek at present being
flooded as part of a new water storage
project. It is mainly dry Eucalypt
fofest with sufficient undergrowth and
long grass to make movement on foot
slow on the lower slopes and in the
gullies. The Carex appressa, Tall
Sedge, which grew along the swampy
border to this particular tributary,
has already been drowned by the rise
in water level and its dependant
butterfly Heteronympha aordaae aordaae,
the Bright-eyed Brown, which once
occurred there, seems to have dis¬
appeared. The large Gahnia sieberiana 3 Red-fruit Saw-sedge, may also be
swamped in time, but as it grows further up the slopes than the Carex,
this is not yet possible to say with any certainty. Its dependent
butterfly Tisiphone abeona albifascia , The Sword-grass Brown, was still
in the area: a number were sighted but none captured.
The following species of butterflies were taken or observed:
Species
Common Name
Notes
Signeta flammeata
Bright Shield Skipper
A few on lower
slopes.
Hesperilla donnysa patmos
Donnysa Skipper
One half-grown
larva found.
Dispar eompaota
Dispar Skipper
Common, partic¬
ularly on higher
slopes.
Pieris rapae
Cabbage White
None taken but
several sighted.
Delias harpalyae
Imperial White
Four sighted
flying around
treetops.
Zizina otis labradus
Common Grass-Blue
Not uncommon.
Geitoheura klugi klugi
Klug's Xenica
Common, males
more worn than
females.
April, 1972.
6 .
The Victorian Entomologist
Species
Common Name
Notes
Geitoneuva acantha ocvea
Southern-Ringed Xenica
Less common than
G.kZugi 3 males
more worn than
females.
Heteronympha merope merope
Common Brown
Most common butt¬
erfly almost all
females.
H. peneZope stevope
Shouldered Brown
Several males
seen, none capt¬
ured.
Oriexenica kershawi
kershawi
Kershaw's Brown
Not uncommon on
higher slopes.
Tisiphone abeona
aZbifascia
Sword-grass Brown
A few sighted,
none captured.
Other Families taken were:
PHASMATODEA: Stick and leaf insects
(Ctenomorphod.es tessulatus)
HYMENOPTERA : Ants,Bees,Wasps,Sawflies
PompiZidae 3
(Salius bioolor)
(ChryptocheiZus species)
Ichneumonidae,
(Ichneumon species)
Ophioninae 3
Bvaconidae 3
Gasteruptiidae 3
Spheaidae,
HaZictidae s
Formicidae 3
(Iridimyrmex foetans)
(Myrmecia species)
(Camponotus species)
Pevgidae
DIPTERA : True Flies
Tachinidae 3
(Rutilia species)
Tabanidae 3
(Tabanus froggati)
(Tabanus species)
DIPTERA : (Cont.)
Staiomyidae 3
Surphidae 3
(ErastiZas tenax)
(Surphus vividiceps)
Muscididae 3 '
(Musca domestica)
(Musca vestustissima)
Ca ZZiphoridae 3
TupiZidae 3
(Macromatix species)
ODONATA : Dragon § Damsel flies
Gomphidae 3
(Austrogomphus otratius)
ORTHOPTERA : Grasshoppers and
Crickets
Acrididae 3
(Gastrimargus musicus)
(Goniaea austraZasiae)
Tettigoniidae 3
(ConocephaZus spj
GryZidae 3
(TeZeogryZus cormodus)
April, 1972.
7.
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The Victorian Entomologist
HEMIPTERA : True Bugs
Fulgoridaej
Eurymelidae,
Pentatomidae 3
Membracidae 3
Coreidae 3
(Rococerus australasiae)
COLEQPTERA : Beetles
Cr-ysomelidas,
Cocainelidae .
The PHIGALIA SKIPPER, TRAPEZITES PHIGALIA PHIGALIA HEWITSON
(LEPIDOPTERA, Subfamily TRAPEZITINAE)
by W.N.B. Quick
C.W.McCubbin
February 1972
Distribution: New South Wales, Victoria, and Mt. Lofty, S.A. Mainly
foothills, coastal of the Divide,
Foodpiant: Lcmandra filiformis , a rather stiff-foliaged, tussocky
plant, growing to about 30-40 cm.in height. Leaves are
distinctly blue-green, 3-10 mm,in width, linear, and slightly serrate
at the edges. Leaf-tips are rounded, and generally dry.
Notes: Probably more widespread than its absence from many
collections would suggest, the Phigalia Skipper is a
butterfly of warm spring days. It is single brooded, appearing on the
wing late in October in the southern part of its range, earlier in the
north. With a wing-spread of only 30-35 mm., it is not a large insect,
nor is it conspicuous on the wing, often seeming to materialise out of
nowhere as it pauses for a moment to sip nectar from one of the multi¬
tudes of yellow spring flowers.
The foodpiant is both hardy and reliable, and certainly
not unattractive as a garden plant. As the larvae have little tendency
to wander, rearing the butterfly at home is not difficult, but they could
well be covered by net, as many fall victim to both Dipterous and
Hymenopterous parasites. A clump of several foodplants in the garden
should support a viable colony of this butterfly, as it appears
remarkably oblivious to human presence.
Life-history: It seems incredible that the early stages of this relative¬
ly abundant and widespread species should have escaped
description for so long, yet such appears to be the case. The eggs are
April, 1972.
8.
The Victorian Entomologist
roughly hemi-spherical, with faint vertical lines or ribs, cream to grey-
white, and relatively large. They are deposited singly on the foodplant,
often after a great deal of hovering and deliberation by the female
butterfly as she selects a suitable site.
The larva is stout, .20-28 mm. in length at maturity, pinkish-
grey in colour, shagreened to granular, with five faint brown-black longi¬
tudinal lines, the mid-dorsal one the most distinct. Head prominent,
almost black, rough, and lacks a distinct furrow at the top. The larvae
are nocturnal, but are easily located late in winter, when they are feeding
actively, for the diagonally 'scissor-snipped' appearance of the half-eaten
foliage is unmistakable - and save for a few closely-related species, few
other insects attack the foliage of this plant to confuse the issue. The
larval shelter is invariably close to the base of the leaves on which the
larva has been feeding, and is normally constructed wholly or partly of
the dead foliage of the same plant. Larvae normally pupate in this
shelter, or occasionally in a curled leaf near the base of the foodplant.
The pupa is stout, sub-cylindrical, 17-20 mm.in length,
tapering abruptly in the posterior segments, and suffused with a variable
blue-grey bloom, sometimes almost absent. Pupal cap with a slightly
raised dark prominence. Extremities shortly and sparsely pubescent to
bristly. Auricles at the wing-bases black and prominent; between them,
dorsally on the thorax immediately behind the head, a pair of broad black
streaks, slightly convergent towards the anterior end.
Received 18/2/72.
April, 1972,
9 .
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The Victorian Entomologist
BOTANY FOR ENTOMOLOGISTS
by J. F. HUTCHINSON
Insects have diverse and numerous habitats, therefore the Entomologist
needs to have a knowledge of disciplines other than his own. The collector
searching for eggs, larvae and pupae will take an interest in Botany in order
to find host plants. To find certain plants he may have to look for certain
habitats and soils, therefore a smattering of geology could be valuable. To
fit this information together and relate it to other animals and plants a
knowledge of ecology is needed,
This article will deal with one of the most interesting aids an
Entomologist will need: Botany.
The classification of plants is based on the same principles as that
of animals, except that where insects belong to the Class Insecta, plants
are three ranks higher being in a Kingdom of their own, Plantae. The basic
classification of plants is best illustrated by the diagram below. Corres¬
ponding taxa for insects are in brackets.
Class Plantae
Phylum Thallophyta Bryophyta Pteridophyta
Fungi, Algae Mosses § Ferns
Liverworts
Sub-Phylum Angiospermae
Class Monocotyledonae
(Animalae)
(Arthropoda)
Spermatophyta
Seed bearing plants
Gymnospermae
Dicotyledonae (Insecta)
Class is further divided into Order, Family, Genus and finally.
Species. With insects we find that Order is the major unit of classifi¬
cation, viz, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, etc., but with plants it is the
Family, viz, Roseaceae, Graminae, etc.
With a few exceptions plants from Thallophyta, Bryophyta and
Pteridophyta are not normally considered as good for collecting. Bracket
Fungi (Thallophyta) yield some interesting Coleoptera.
Spei'matophyta is the most important; this Phylum contains the
true seed bearing plants, If they produce naked seeds on scale-like
tracts which are often grouped to form cones, they belong to Gymnospermae,
which include the conifers. However if they develop true flowers and
bear seeds in an ovary,they belong to Angiospermae or the true flowering
plants, the largest and most important group.
April, 1972.
10 .
'The Victorian Entomologist
/
Monocotyledonae has a number of entomologically important families.
1. Graminae (Poaceae)
Widely spread Family of about 600 genera and 9,000 species. Most
members are herbs, but some are woody, e.g. tropical bamboos. Stem is
always jointed, with solid nodes and usually hollow internodes, except in
rhizomes where they are solid,
Leaves arise from nodes and have a sheath running up the stem for
some distance and then leave the stem as the lamina. The junction of the
sheath and lamina is the ligule which may be membranous and hairy. Also
at the junction may be auricles which vary in size and shape. Variations
in the ligule and auricle are used in the identification of grasses. The
venation of the lamina is typical of monocotyledons, i.e. parallel.
Flowers are not in single units but in spikes consisting of a
number of flowers, They are usually bisexual, some are unisexual, e.g.
maize. Individual flowers have 3 stamens and 2 feathery stigmas.
Any grasses near streams are valuable collecting as they act as
refuge plants for caddis flies, crane flies, stone flies and damsal
flies. Many Satyrinae are associated with Poa species. Tetrarrhena
juncea (Forest Wire Grass) is used by Orixenzoa kevshoani as a host
plant. Heteronympha bariksi. and Toxidia andersoni are often associated
with it. This grass is commonly found throughout the damp mountain
forests of Victoria and is abundant in the Dandenongs.
Melanitis teda banksi. lays single eggs on Irnpevata Qy'lzndr'toa
sugar cane and a range of other grasses.
1, Cytindricay (Blady Grass) is widespread on poor and sandy soils in
many parts of Victoria and S.E. South Australia, except the Mailee.
It is perennial up to 1 metre, devoid of hairs except for tufts
often at nodes. Laminae are about 30 cm., with conspicuous flowers
from August to March.
2. Cyperaceae
Comprising of about 100 genera and 3,000 species, with a wide
distribution in all parts of the world. Most often growing in wet
places. Similar in many respects to Graminae, however the stem is
solid (as opposed to hollow) and usually triangular when cut trans¬
versely, (Where Graminae is round).
The Genus Hesperilla (Sub-family Trapezitinae) is dependent
the various species of Gahnia, the so-called sword grasses or saw
sedges.
on
April, 1972,
11 .
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The Victorian Entomologist
/
Cyperus (from which the family takes its name,) is also a food plant
for some Hesperilla. Nut grass, Cyperus rotundas is a well-known species.
3. Liliaceae
Family of about 250 genera and 3,500 species, which is widely spread
throughout the world, Most of its members are perennial herbs, having
rhizomes, bulbs or corms. Woodiness is rare, an Australian example is
Xanthorrhoea (Blackboy or Grass Tree), the flower spikes of which are good
collecting for a variety of insects), particularly Coleoptera.
Leaves are variable, usually entire, long and narrow, presence of a
petiole is rare.
The calyx consists of 3 sepals and the corrola of 3 petals forming
two whorls or a floral envelope which is called a perianth.
Lomandra is a Genus of interest as it is a host plant for a large
number of Trapezites species. Members of the Genus are dioecious, i.e.
there are male and female plants. They are perennials with narrow hard
linear leaves up to 80 cm. long, almost all of which are basal and usually
much longer than the inflorescence. Some species are popularly called
Iron Grass or Mat-rush.
4. Iridaceae
A smallish family with about 70 genera and 1,000 species, again
widely spread but mainly in South Africa and South America. Has the same
general characteristics on Liliaceae>but stamens number only 3 as opposed
to 6.
All members are perennial with corms or rhizomes and bulbs to a
lesser extent.
Flowers are zygomorphic or bilaterally symmetrical i.e. can only
be cut through one verticle plane to form two equal and identical halves.
Well known members are Ixia and Gladiolus. Entomologically
important is Vatersonia, a food plant for Mesodina. They are perennial
herbs, whose leaves form a tussock. Flowers are mainly blue, rarely
yellow or white, lasting only one day but produced in a succession
from a spathe. (A large bract enclosing a flower cluster).
Dicotyledonae is the other important Class of which further
study is valuable.
April, 1972,
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The Victorian Entomologist
5. Mrytaceae
Widely spread Family of 90 genera and about 3,000 species. The main
centres of development are Australia and Tropical America, In Australia the
family runs second to Leguminosae in number of species. In most areas of
Australia the Family forms a conspicuous part of the vegetation. Eucalyptus
being most prominent.
Members are evergreen trees or shrubs, with thick leaves which
contain oil glands. Leaves are usually opposite one another or alternately
placed along the stem.
Flowers are bisexual and actinomorphic, (i.e. radially symmetrical
or able to be cut through two or more vertical planes into similar halves).
There are usually 5 (sometimes 4) petals with numerous stamens often long
and coloured*
Fruit is a woody capsule, as in most Australian species, e.g. gum
nut from Eucalypts, or a berry. A berry fruit is uncommon in Australian
members of the family, the Eugenia (Lilly Pilly) is an example.
The Family is divided into two Sub-families on the basis of the
flowers.
Sub-family (A) Myrtoidae
Contains the economically important Genus Eucalyptus. The flowers
are good collecting for a wide range of orders particularly Coleoptera
and Lepidoptera, and the foliage for Coleoptera particularly Chrysomelidae.
A large genus of about 670 species and varieties which is almost exclus¬
ively Australian, a few species occur in New Guinea and other northern
islands. It is a most difficult genus to classify, because of the close
relationships between the species and the remarkable variability in all
parts of the plant. The time of flowering is also very erratic, however
the anthers form the basis of classification.
The closely related genus Angophora is also good for collecting;
flowers and foliage are both profitable,
Sub-family (B) Leptospermoidae
This section contains the plants with bottlebrush and tea-tree
type flowers, Leptospermum (Tea-tree) is a genus of about 30 species,
mainly Australian. The 3 species L. laevigatus y pubescens 3 and
myrsinoides 3 when in flower are very good for collecting Stigmodera
as well as a selection of other Orders.
Commonly called Heath Myrtles, the genera Baeekea and Thrypotomene 3
when in flower are good for collecting Diptera.
April * 1972.
13.
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The Victorian Entomologist
Callistemon (Bottlebrushes), Melaleuca (Paperbarks) and Kunzea are
closely related genera, the flowers of which are fruitful for many different
Orders.
6. Logoniaceae
A family not well represented in Australia, in fact having only 6
Genera. The larva of Virachola smilis dalyensis feed in the small orange
fruits of Strychnos lucida.
Also in the family is the Buddleia (Butterfly Bush) well known for
its perfume which attracts many species of Lepidoptera,
7. Thymelaeaceae
Another of the smallish Families. Pimelea is important as a refuge
and a host plant. Periodically visiting it are Stigmodera species and a
number of Lepidoptera including Vanessa kershaui and V. itea. Larvae of
Candalides xanthospilos feed on various species of it.
8. Compositae (Asteraceae)
Second largest Family of flowering plants, it is only exceeded by
Orchidaceae. There are about 300 genera and 13,000 species. It is spread
widely throughout the world and there is great diversity in vegetative
form, the majority being herbaceoustrees and shrubs are rare. Some
members are water or marsh plants, other are xerophytic, few are climbers.
Individual flowers are known as florets, arranged on the enlarged
end of the stem which forms a common receptable.
Many economically important plants are found in the Family, incl¬
uding lettuce, Jerusalem artichoke. Dahlia, Aster, as well as a number of
important weeds. Chrondrilla guncea (Skeleton Weed), Taraxacum officinale
(Dandelion), and Cryptosterma calendula (Capeweed) the last two of which
are host plants for Vanessa kershawi.
Helichrysum (Everlasting) is also a host plant for V. kershawi .
H. bracteatum } the Golden Everlasting is a well known native perennial.
The yellow flowers of Senecio are good for collecting Lepidoptera
which feed on the nectar,
9 . Rutaceae
A widely spread Family, found mostly in tropical and Sub-tropical
regions and best developed in South Africa and Australia. Composed of
about 140 genera and 1,500 species. They are mainly trees or shrubs,
rarely herbs.
April, 1972,
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The Victorian Entomologist
Leaves are simple and compound which are exstipulate, glabourous,
often leathery and aromatic. Flowers are bisexual, rarely unisexual with
4 or 5 petals in a star formation and many stamens in bundles.
Well known genera in the Family include Boronia, Correa, Phebalium
and Eriostemon. Eriostemon is endemic to Australia and most of the 20
species have white flowers (some are pink or blue) flushed with pink on
the outside, and are good for collecting Diptera.
Also in the Family is the Genus Citrus of which the lemon, grape¬
fruit, orange and lime are members. In the Murray Irrigation Area, Papilio
aegeus is a pest of citrus, the larvae feeding on the leaves.
10. Legummoseae (Fabaceae)
Third largest family of flowering plants with about 600 genera and
12,000 species Fruit is a legume (dry dehiscent fruit formed from a single
carpel and splitting along two sides when mature).
Members include trees, shrubs, climbers and xerophytes. A Family
of tremendous ecological and economic importance because of symbiotic
relationships members have with certain bacteria. A number are important
as fodder plants, (clover, lucerne, medics) some are vegetables (peas,
beans, and peanuts). Some are poisonous to stock and others provide
useful drugs.
It is divided into 3 sub-Families, (which many modern botanists
have elevated to rank of Family) on the basis of whether the flowers are
actinomorphic (regular), zygomorphic (irregular), or very irregular.
Sub-Family Mimosoidae
Contains only 3 Genera, Aoaoia , Albizzia and Neptunia. Aoaoia
is the most important economically and entomologically, being good for
collecting Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. All species of Jalmenus feed on
Aoaoia, except for two which feed on other legumes.
Sub-family Caesalpmiodeae
Cassia has world wide distribution with about 450 species, of
which about 30 occur in Australia, mainly in the north. In bud the wings
(two main petals) surround the standard. Flowers are slightly zygomorphic.
Members are shrubs with pinnate (i.e. a compound leaf whose leaflets are
arranged, one on each side of a common petiole or axis). A number of
Lepidoptera use Cassia as a host plant, including Polyura pyrrhus semp-
roniuSj Catopsilia pyranthe orokera and Eurema smilax.
April, 1972.
15.
The Victorian Entomologist
Sub-Family Papilionatae
This Sub-Family contains the plants with flowers that are typical
"pea-type". Botanically the flower is distinguished by the 5 sepals, the
largest of which is the standard, 2 lateral wings and 2 lower ones united
to form a keel which encloses the androecium (male reproductive parts) and
gynoecium (female). A number of Genera are important including Dillwynia,
Pultenaea 3 Datiesia and Crotalaria.
11. Roseaceae
Family of about 100 genera with 2,500 species and innumerable
cultivars. Found mainly in the Northern hemisphere with only a few
representatives in Australia. Of considerable economic importance, for
in the family are found the majority of the fruit trees, hybrid garden
roses, and a number of berry crops.
The flowers of Rubus (e.g, Blackberry) which are white, supply
nectar for some Papilio and Hesperiidae.
It is worth noting that the members of Roseaceae have only 5 petals
as a rule. The extra petals in hybrid roses are due to selective breeding
and are called petaloid staminodes.
12. Santalaceae
Most of the members are parasitic on the roots of other plants,
and the leaves are often reduced to scales.
Exocarpus (Native Cherry), Choretrum (Berry Broombrush) and
Santalum (Quandong) are the food plants for some Ogyrinae and some Delias
species.
13. Loranthaceae
Commonly called the Mistletoe Family, the Genera Muellarina and
Amyemae are parasitic on some Eucalyptus , Banksias 3 Acacias and Casuarina
species. Larvae of Ogyris feed on them and pupate under the bark or in
the nest of the attendant ants.
This article has scratched only the surface of the entomologically
significant plants. Many more Families could have been incorporated but
these are the more common ones and those which are easily distinguished.
Article received 18.2.72.
April, 1972.
16.
\
The Victorian
t
Entomologist
INSTRUCTIONS TO AUTHORS:
1. All articles should be sent to the Editor^ type-written in double-spaced
typing, the pages numbered, and a good 1% margin on both sides. Articles
should preferably be written in the third person. The author should keep
one copy for himself and forward at least two copies to the Editor, at
least five (5) weeks before the newsletter is to be sent out.
2. The Publication Committee shall be checking all articles, using the CSIRO
'Guide To Authors' as a guide to lay-out, which is available from the
Secretary at 50j£ per copy.
3. If authors, or any members require surplus copies of the newsletter,
could they please advise the Secretary in advance (20jd per copy).
LAYOUT:
A consise method of presentation is essential, and spelling, espec¬
ially of scientific data should be thoroughly checked before submitting the
article to the Editor.
All measurements should be submitted in the Metric System.
1. TITLE: followed by name of contributor. (Initials of male, Christian
name of female).
2. INTRODUCTION: briefly stating principle results of work, significance of
of articles e.g. new observations, new theories etc.
3. TECHNIQUE: where material is situated now e.g. in museums, private
collections, should also be included.
4. RESULTS: Consisely written, and arranged in organized form for rapid
reference. Illustrations and tables may be included here to
accompany descriptive text.
5. DISCUSSION and CONCLUSION: should include interpretation of results
with a clear statement as to their general or specific signifi¬
cance and their contribution towards previous results by author
or other investigators.
6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: i.e. Contributions by associates, or if permission
of an authorative body has been required,
7. REFERENCES: Adequate but not excessive, arranged alphabetically under
authors' names.
ILLUSTRATIONS:
Line drawings and tables to be drawn in black ink on white paper or card,
or good quality tracing paper. Compass directions should be placed on maps
and geographical plan views. Graphic scales must be included with the
drawing.
April, 1972.
17.
The Victorian Entomologist
PHOTOGRAPHS:
All photographic black and white prints should be prepared in actual
size, mounted on white card with a 5 cm. surrounding margin, and clearly-
labelled on the back of the card.
Sharp black and white negatives may be submitted and the size of the
desired print must be clearly indicated.
A nominal fee of $2.70 shall be paid by the author to pay for the
metal plate, and an extra $1.50 if it is necessary to prepare a print from
a negative. (i.e. $1.50 for a 10" x 8" print).
Explanation of plates should appear at end of paper after references.
Taken from the C.S.I.R.O, Guide to Authors
"Authors must accept responsibility for adherence to the Inter¬
national Rules of Botanical and Zoological Nomenclature.
When the scientific name of a plant or an animal forms part of the
title, the higher groups to which it belongs should be indicated in brackets.
This information should comprise at least two names, usually those of the
order and family, but higher categories may sometimes be necessary".
(e.g. Vanessa kershawi (McCoy) (Lepidoptera : NYMPHALIDAE).
"The authority should be included with the scientific name where
a species of plant or animal is first mentioned in the text. If the
authority is given in the title, it should not be repeated in the Summary
as this will always be read in conjunction with the title. For the same
reason the generic name may be abbreviated in the Summary when it is
given in full in the title, but must be given in full in the text when
the authority is included.
Common names of plants and animals should be followed by the
scientific name where first mentioned in the text".
Common names should be followed by scientific names and common
names of plants and animals should be capitalized. A small initial
letter should be used in the specific name of all plants and animals.
The spelling adopted should be that used in the Oxford Dictionary.
—
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* ■- ^ 3 ’ ? r : r n •tX'ro;i Jut;
-•
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
VOL: 2. NO. 3
JUNE 2572.
Price 20 c
Registered for posting as a periodical - Category B -
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members
Country or Associate members
Junior members
Student members
$3.00.
$ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
June, 1972.
'The Victorian Entomologist
CONTENTS
Office Bearers and Coming Events Page 1
Reports and Notices 2
New Members %
Correspondence %
Exhibits 2
Excursions $
Results of a Butterfly-Collecting Trip to Flinders Island 4
- A.D. Bishop.
Some Butterflies of the Victorian Big Desert - D.F. Crosby. 5
Interesting Record for Victoria - S.F. McEvery. 8
Some Observations on the Emergence of Jalmenus evagorus. 8
Collected Ogyris idmo waterhouseri - W.N.B. Quick. 9
Preparation of Wings, Palpi etc. of Lepidoptera for Micro-
phorography and Microscopic Examination - W.N.B. Quick. 11
Illustrations of Larva and Pupa of Trapezites phigalia - Facing page 12
June, 1972.
1 .
‘The Victorian Entomologist'
V.E.S. ACTIVITIES.
OFFICE BEARERS FOR 1972 :
President: Mr. C. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave,, Box Hill Nth. (89 9171).
Vice-President: Mr. A. Morton.
Hon. Secretary: Miss S. Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris, 3146 (50 5263).
Hon. Editor: Mr. R. Besserdin, 35 Quinn St., Heidelberg, 3084 (459 3176).
Hon. Treasurer: Mr, B. Condon, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth., 3129.
Immediate Past-President: Mr. P. Kelly,
The "Victorian Entomologist" encorporates "Wings and Stings".
The statements and opinions expressed in this Journal are the views of
the respective authors, and not necessarily those of the Society.
COMING EVENTS :
Friday, June 16, 1972 .
General Meeting, "Aquatic Insects". Speaker: Mr. Paul Genery.
MEETING DATES FOR 1972 ;
August 18, 1972 "Grid areas for Faunal Studies"
Speaker: Dr. Brian Smith.
October 20, 1972 "Suggan Buggan".
December 15, 1972 (Third Friday of the Month).
June, 1972
2.
’The Victorian Entomologist
REPORTS AND NOTICES
General meeting, Friday, April 21st, 1972. The Immediate Past-President
Mr. Kelly chaired the meeting which was attended by 35 members and friends.
Apologies were received from Mr. C. McCubbin, Mr. A. Morton, Mr. § Mrs. R.
Manskie, Mr. A. Haffenden, Miss White, Mr. M. Connor and Mr, J. Barnes.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed.
NEW MEMBERS
We wish to welcome the following new members:
Mr. R. Pound, 21 Miriam Street, Rosanna (Interest - Formicidae).
Mr. 0. Rogge, 22 Arthur Street, East Coburg (Interest - Chrysidae).
TREASURER'S REPORT
The Treasurer reported a balance of $63.15 with the present number of
financial members standing at 40. There are still a number of members who
have not paid their subscription for the year.
THE NEWSLETTER
1. At the end of the year an index with cross references to authors,
fauna and flora shall appear with the Journal.
2. It was decided that the price of advertising in the Journal be $5 for
a full page advertisement, and $2.50 for a half page.
3. The number of Reprints available to Authors was discussed at the
Publication Meeting. It was decided that upon request, an author
is entitled to receive two extra copies of the Journal, and as
many others at the reduced rate of 10c. per copy.
CORRESPONDENCE was received from
1. The Entom. Soc. of Australia (N.S.W.) Circular No, 222.
2. News Bulletin of the Entomological Soc. of Queensland No. 84.
March 1972.
3. Nomination form for the Australian Natural History Medallion sent from
the Secretary of the General Committee, 45 Eastgate St, Oakleigh,
dated 1.2.72.
4. Teen International Entomological Group, U.S.A., advising that their
display for the International Congress of Entomology shall be left in
Australia,and that the Society may make use of the exhibit if they wish.
5. Journal of the Australian Entomological Soc^Vol. 11. No. 1. March 1972.
6. News Bulletin, Entomological Soc. of Queensland. No. 85. April 1972.
7. T.I.E.G. Newsletter, Vol. 6. No. 2. Summer 1971.
June, 1972
3.
The Victorian Entomologist
The speaker for the evening was Mr. N. Quick, who discussed various 'Butterfly
Food Plants'. He explained that with the theory of Continental Drift, it
appeared likely that India was at one time joined to the North-western section
of Australia and that the Western section of South-East Africa was joined to
the West and South-West portion of Australia and the West coast of South
America to the Eastern Australian Coast. When these Continents separated,
both retained portions of similar vegetation and butterfly fauna. Mr. Quick
then went on to explain with slides and various native food plants from which
native butterflies fed, and reasons why some plants were chosen by the butter¬
fly in preference to others when egg-laying. It was a very interesting talk
on a little-known subject.
Mr. Quick has prepared a "Check List of Australian Butterflies", available
now at $1.50 per copy. Please order from the author.
EXHIBITS
Mr. A. Bishop - Species of Brown butterflies taken from the Beech Forest
(Otways, Vic.) area with the same^race^from Melbourne area in comparison.
As we must vacate the Conference Room at 10 p.m. sharp, it was decide.,
at the General Committee meeting to commence the meetings at 7.45, and
allowing h an hour for general business, 1 hour for the Speaker, this will
give members time to discuss any information between themselves.
EXCURSIONS
As it was decided to investigate as many areas within Victoria as possible
- both old and new - the following areas were decided upon -
1972: Waratah Bay-Show weekend. (28 Sept - 1 Oct 1972.)
Big Desert - Small group with D. Crosby (Nov. 4-7, 1972).
Suggan Buggan/Snowy area (16-23 December 1972).
1973: Inglewood (A.N.A. Weekend. 27-29 Jan. 1973).
Sunset Country (proposed February, 1973).
For any information about these excursions, please contact Mr. N. Quick,
Excursion Secretary (560 8145).
A map, and general information about the trip shall appear prior to the
excursion in the Journal.
WANTED at the time of the Entomological Congress; living Eohidnaphaga
gallinaoeus - Stick-fast Flea. Please contact the Hon. Miriam Rothschild,
Ashton, Peterborough, England, before July 1st, or during the Congress.
Miss R. Shepherd
Keith Turnbull Research Station
Frankston.
June, 1972
4,
'The Victorian Entomologist
NEW PUBLICATIONS
Landsdowne Press
'Australian Insects'
$3.50
Treasury of Australian Wildlife
available from the Australian Museum, N.S.W.
$1,95
RESULTS OF A BUTTERFLY-COLLECTING TRIP TO FLINDERS ISLAND - A.D. Bishop .
Flinders Island is the largest island in Bass Strait. Its topography
is dominated by the rugged Strzelecki Range running north-south and reaching
up to about 2500 feet above sea-level. Some of the land is farmed, but
where natural vegetation remains it is somewhat similar to that of Wilson's
Promontory: low sclerophyll forest and woodland, with heath and occasional
fern-gullies.
These notes are the result of a collecting trip in late January-early
February 1971. Weather was unfortunately unfavourable, so little collecting
could be done in the most profitable areas. The area covered was in the
south of the island, around the mouth of Big River, Lady Barren and Mt.
Strzelecki (the most interesting collecting area).
According to Dr. I.F.B. Common (C.S.I.R.O.), Neoluoia serpentate and
N. mathewi are already recorded for Flinders Island; neither of these,
however, was seen.
The following species were collected or seen:
FAMILY PIERIDAE:
Pievis rapae (L,), Cabbage White, Seen in several places, especially in
towns. Did not appear to be very common.
FAMILY NYMPHALIDAE:
Heteronympha merope salazar Fruhst., Common Brown. Identified by Dr.Common
as the Tasmanian race. Plentiful in grassy areas, especially near water.
Males more common than females.
Geitoneura klugi klugi (Guer.), Klug's Xenica. Common, in the same areas
as the previous species.
Vanessa kershawi (McCoy), Painted Lady. Several seen resting in ground in
paddocks, but none taken. Looked fairly fresh.
Vanessa itea (Fab.), Australian Admiral. Two specimens taken, one very worn
and the other in fairly good condition. A few others, in varying condition,
were seen, both in grassy areas and in forest clearings. The foodplant, the
nettle, was found on the island.
June, 1972
5.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
FAMILY LYCAENIDAE:
Zizina otis labradus (Godt,), Common Grass Blue. One very worn specimen,
probably of this species, taken in long grass by the roadside.
Butterflies that seem to fit the description of Graphiwn maoleayanus ,
Macleay's Swallowtail, were seen on the slopes of Mt. Strzelecki in pockets
of rainforest vegetation. None, however, were caught, and the identification
is only a guess. It is also possible that Nesoxenioa leprea, the Leprea
Brown, is present.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS :
Thanks are due to Dr. I.F.B. Common and Mr. A. Neboiss for their
advice and help in identification.
Manuscript received
2.3.72.
SOME BUTTERFLIES OF THE VICTORIAN BIG DESERT
By : D. F. CROSBY
For many years Victorian Butterfly collectors have hunted in the Little
Desert area, along with many other enthusiasts, I have visited the "haunts"
a number of times, but owing to my predominant interest in the distributional
aspects of the Australian butterflies (and subsequently the proclamation of
the Little Desert as a National Park) I wanted to find similar but new
areas for collecting.
An obvious first choice was the Big Desert area situated about 20-30
miles north of the main Melbourne-Adelaide highway and stretching 50 miles
north-south and 45 miles east-west to the South Australian border. Maps
indicated the only vehicle access was along a track which ran north from
Yanac to Murrayville on the Ouyen-Pinnaroo Road. In my first sortie in
November 1958, and subsequently in 1963, this track was very rough and
negotiable only with four wheel drive vehicles, but it is now a fairly
well graded but sandy road.
My visits have been in late October or early November to coincide with
the flight season of the main butterflies in the region, and, in line with
experiences in the Little Desert (and other areas) I headed for the highest
points - in this case the many sand dunes reasonably close to the road.
These varied from about 50 to 150 ft. in height and those with open sandy
areas on top, with a few low shrubs, are best as the "Skippers" and "Blues"
prefer to fly there.
Over my visits quite a number of sand hills have been looked at, but the
highest are the best for butterflies, and one can expect to catch the follow¬
ing species, most of which I have taken on each occasion :
June, 1972,
6.
The Victorian Entomologist
Cyprotides cyptrovus cyprotus
Erina hyaainthina simplexa
Erina acasta
"Cyprotus Blue"
"Western Dusky Blue"
"Blotched Blue"
"Fringed Blue"
"Chequered Blue"
"Double Spotted Lineblue"
"Sciron Skipper"
"Dirphia Skipper"
Neolucia agricola agri-cola
Neolucia serpentata serpentata
Nacaduba b%ocellata biocellata
Trapezites sciron eremicola
Motasingha dirphia trimaculata
Generally speaking, most of the specimens caught on the tops of the
dunes are males, as these spots are apparently their play areas. The
females are taken on the lower slopes of the dunes or in the depressions
at their bases, amongst the food plants. The females of C. cyprotus 3
T. sciron and M. dirphia are quite rare, but this may be due to most
collecting having been done early in their flight seasons, and mainly
where the males fly.
During my most recent visit, October 30th and 31st, 1971, accompanied
by Messrs. W.N.B, Quick and D.E.A. Morton, two very interesting new
records were obtained.
The first of these was the Small Brown Azure, Ogyris otanes. On
walking along the crest of a low sand ridge at about 3 p.m. (Eastern
Standard Time.) I saw a small blackish butterfly hovering near the ground
next to a clump of Mallee. As I approached it flew downhill into the
wind and I chased but missed it. On walking up the hill again I could see
two or possibly three of the same insect fighting, silhouetted against the
sky. I managed to net two of these and was very excited to find that they
were an Og-yris. My immediate reaction was that they were 0. idmo - the
"Large Brown Azure", as they appeared fairly purplish underneath, although
rather small for that species. I could see no more so returned to the road,
but in so doing saw another specimen flying close to the ground on a higher
hill and what appeared to be another flying round a tree.
Next day we decided to comb the area thoroughly, although still not
positive as to what species it was. Thinking it may be 0. otanes we
carefully checked in the patches where the bush Choretrum glomeratum the
"Common-Sour-bush" grew, at the same time looking for sugar ants Camponotus
sp. However, we have no success at this, but we sighted two specimens
flying and Mr. Quick was fortunate to net a nice female, settled on a dead
branch, close to the ground at about noon.
At about 12.30 p.m. we noticed two flying towards the top of the ridge
and these were caught. From then till about 4 p.m, seven specimens were
bagged in one confined area close to where I had caught the two the day
before, In all we captured nine males and three females. Unfortunately,
time did not permit a more thorough search for life histories as we were
June, 1972.
7.
The Victorian Entomologist
anxious to catch the adults. We were also still not completely sure of
whether the specimens were 0. otccnes and 0. idmo.
On the following day, a party led by Mr. Charles McCubbin visited the
area and Messrs. Ray Manskie and Bob Condron each caught one further male.
The same group pushed on right up to Murrayville and believe they saw other
specimens further north before the Choretrum disappeared,
The other interesting record from the same trip was a perfect female
of the "Black and White Skipper", Motasingha atralba atralba, caught by
Tony Morton in a depression between the sand hills near where the 0. otanes
were netted. We made a short search of the vicinity for its food plant
(presumably the "Little Sedge", Gahnia lanigera) but could not locate any.
This insect has recently been recorded from near Hattah Lakes, where Mr.
Morton had success with it this season.
As a post-script, I should add that on returning to Melbourne, the
Ogyris specimens were identified as 0. otanes . In comparing them with a
series from the typical locality of Kangaroo Island, which are brownish and
quite distinctly marked on the underside, particularly the hind wing, th^
Desert specimens are very much less distinctly marked and have a darker
appearance with a purplish sheen on the underside of the wings.
Other records of the species come from South-Western Australia, and the
Yorke Peninsula, South Australia. Doubtless, the species will be found at
intervening localities in South Australia.
Manuscript received
7.3.72.
June, 1972.
8.
'The Victorian Entomologist
INTERESTING RECORDS FOR VICTORIA
By : S. F. McEvery
Three aduits of Acraea a. andromacha (Fabricius) [Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae
Acraeinae) , the Glasswing, were collected at Rutherglen in N.E. Victoria on
13.ii.1972. Specimens comprised 2 females and 1 male. Three others were
seen but not collected.
On 3.xii.l970 a female adult of Holochila goodingi Tindale, [Lepidoptera:
Lycaenidae; Lyaaeninae ) was taken at Kallista picnic ground. It was a near
perfect specimen which may indicate that the species has been breeding in
the Kallista or nearby area. The foodplant of the species still remains
unknown.
An adult male of Erine h. hyaenthina (Semper) ( Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae;
Lycaeinae ) the Common Dusky Blue was taken on the summit of Mt. William at
3829 feet in the Grampians on 29.i.1972. Mt. William is about 20 miles S.W.
of Stawell, this is a long way from where it is normally found.
Manuscript received
11.5.72.
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE EMERGENCE OF
Jalmenus evagorus Don, [Lycaentdae ; Lyaaeninae ).
By : J. F. Hutchinson.
Pupae of Jalmenus evagorus were collected on a defoliated branch of
Acacia dealbata on 13.ii.1971. near Mirimbah (Victoria). Typical of
gregarious species the larvae pupated close together along the branch
of the host plant. It was observed that the first imago to emerge was
from the pupa positioned terminally and the following one to do so was
the next one down the branch. This continued until all had emerged.
From the emergence pattern it seems that when the first larva is ready
to pupate it moves to the end of the branch and does so. When the next is
ready it moves tc a position under the first, and this is continued until
all have pupated. Assuming an equal pupation time it is obvious that the
first imago to emerge will be the one that is uppermost.
Of the group of 17 pupae collected,the date of the first emergence
was 15.ii.1972 and of the last 20.ii.1972, so it took a period of five
days under a temperature regime of 10° to 21°C for the group to emerge.
Manuscript received
15.5.72.
June, 1972.
9.
'The Victorian Entomologist
Manuscript received
22.5.72.
In November, 1945, while collecting near Kiata, Victoria, the late Mr.
M.W. Mules had the good fortune to see an apparently freshly-emerged Ogyris
idmo waterhouseri fly from the ground almost directly in front of him, and
which he was able to net.
Closer examination of the area uncovered a sizeable nest of the ant
Camponotus nigriceps near the base of a mallee, Eucalyptus viridis. The
nest was opened, and in a gallery just inside the entrance, one pupa of this
butterfly was found, together with the empty pupal shell of the butterfly
seen on the wing. The live pupa emerged late the same day, November 11th,
1945.
Save for a few tiny herbaceous plants and scattered grasses, this
eucalypt appeared to be the only vegetation nearby which could conceivably
support the larva of such an insect. It seems improbable however that a
eucalypt would be the foodplant of an Ogyris butterfly, a genus which is so
closely associated with the Loranthaceae and Santalaceae , both of which
families are represented widely in the surrounding districts. Eucalyptus,
on the other hand, with over 600 species throughout Australia, has only
once been reported as a butterfly foodplant (Hypochrysops ignita chrysonotus ),
and even this appears to have been an isolated and aberrant instance.
This situation has prompted several entomologists, the present writer
included, to scour this same area for such plants as Eucarya, Choretrum and
Leptomeria. None were found, although Amyema miqueli and Leptomeria occur
within a mile or so. Reports of the area in immediately preceeding years
confirmed that no recent clearing had taken place.
It seems therefore that we may expect the larvae of this rare butterfly,
if not carnivorous, either to be fed by the ants, or to feed within the
ants' nest on items collected* or nurtured by the ants for their own use.
In the latter case, the aberrant life-history might be compared to those
known within the genus Pseudodipsas, in which at least one species ( Ps.
digglesii ) is a mistletoe feeder, while Ps. myrmecophila feeds on food
stored by the ants within their nest, and in its immediate environs.
One additional point may be of significance. On that thundery, almost
legendary day in early November, 1939 when Mr. Keith Hateley obtained no
less than thirty-eight specimens for the Lyell collection, the butterflies
were flying low, as is their habit, over mallee re-growth, some three or
four feet in height, the original growth having been roughly cleared some
two years previously. This stage of growth would not only make the butter¬
fly easily-observed, but may have offered conditions exceptionally favour¬
able to either the ant or the butterfly population. Any areas which have
recently been burned, or are in a stage of re-growth should be checked at
this time of the year for a possible recurrence of this phenomenal upsurge
in the butterfly's numbers.
June, 1972.
10.
'The Victorian Entomologist
The butterfly's habit, like 0. otanes , of settling frequently on or near
the groun$ may be significant.
The butterfly which emerged from the pupa located in the ants' nest,
together with its pupal shell is at present in the collection of the late
M.W. Mules, labelled "Kiata, V., 11.11.45., M.W. Mules. Bd,". The butter¬
fly taken on the wing, together with its pupal shell has been removed from
the F.E. Wilson collection and added to the main collection in the National
Museum, Melbourne, labelled as above . Both are female insects, the latter
forming part of a series of 8 f. and 11 m. insects.
To the best of the writer's knowledge, this constitutes the only
occasion on which any trace of the early stages of this butterfly have
been found, and was apparently the last seen of the species in the Kiata
area.
W.N.B. Quick.
June, 1972.
11.
'The Victorian Entomologist
PREPARATION OF WINGS, PALPI,ETC. OF LEPIDOPTERA
for
MICRO-PHOTOGRAPHY AND MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION
By : W.N.B. Quick.
After careful removal from the insect, whether fresh or dried, dissected
parts of lepidoptera will require stripping of scales and hairs. Treatment
of these is a simple process, with the exception of dissections of genitalia,
which should be digested in a hot 10% KOH (Potassium hydroxide) solution in
place of stage 1. Materials required are for the most part inexpensive, and
the slides, if carefully prepared, are permanent.
1. Immerse the part for 15 minutes or so in dilute sodium hypochlorite
solution. (50% "White King" is perfectly suitable).
2. With a small, cheap water-colour brush, transfer the part to a watch-
glass or other similar vessel. Add a little water, and very gently
remove loosened and bleached scales §c. with the brush. The use of
two brushes may facilitate handling. Both upper and lower surfaces
should be cleaned.
3. Soak for a total of 30 minutes in clear water, changing the water two
or three times. If intended for photographic work, parts may be
stained yellow or light red at this stage. For optical examination,
a blue stain may be preferable.
4. Immerse for 10 minutes in 50% methylated spirit.
5. Immerse for 10 minutes or longer in undiluted spirit. Follow by a
similar immersion in alcohol absolute if it is available.
6. While still wet, carefully transfer to a clean glass slide, and gently
spread the part into its permanent position.
7. When thoroughly air-dried, which may take a little gentle warmth if
alcohol absolute was unavailable, transfer to a clear watch-glass,
and ’clear' the part in clove oil or xylol. All traces of cloudiness
must be eliminated.
8. When clear, position the part on a slide, and with the point of a fine
brush or a pin, carefully lift the part to allow escape of and air-
bubbles. Drain off surplus oil or xylol,
9. Place a drop or two of "Depex" mounting medium directly on the part.
Check that no air bubbles are entrapped,
10. Moisten a clean cover-glass with xylol, and carefully place on the
mounting medium directly over the part. Check that the cover-glass
settles evenly, but dta not apply pressure . Distorted or over-flattened
dissected parts have caused numerous erroneous conclusions. A ready¬
made "cell" - a round ring or washer of plastic may be required for
June, 1972.
12.
The Victorian Entomologist
the more bulky parts and dissections of genitalia, in order to avoid distort¬
ion. Allow to dry in a warm place. Do not stand on edge. Should air
bubbles be detected, these can generally be induced to move to an outside
edge by leaving the slide tilted after it had dried for a day or two.
"Dupex" mounting medium
Xylol
Glass slides § cover-glasses
Micro-slide cells
Watch-glasses or petri-dishes from laboratory-supply houses.
Small hair brushes of suitable quality from newsagents.
W.N.B. Quick - Manuscript receiver
22.5.72.
For text to accompany the following illustrations of larva and pupa of
Trapezites phigalia, see Vol. 2, No, 2 of the "Victorian Entomologist".
ril, 1972
Larva: Trapezites phigaZia (enlarged).
Larva: Lucia Zimbavia (enlarged).
Description: Vol.2, No.l
"The Victorian Entomologist"
Pupa: Trapezites phigaZia (enlarged).
Pupae: Lucia Zimbccria (enlarged)
Description: Vol.2, No.l
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
VOL: 2. NO. 4
AUGUST 1972.
Price 20 e
Registered for posting as a periodical - Category B
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual general meeting.
Ordinary members .. .. .. .. $3.00.
Country or Associate members .. .. $1.00.
Junior members .. .. .. .. • $1.00.
Student members .. .. .. .. $1.00.
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
August, 1972,
’The Victorian Entomologist
CONTENTS
Office Bearers and Diary - Page ^
Editorial 1
Reports and Notices %
Victorian Conservation Projects - D. F. Crosby 5
Species of Butterflies Wanted by the National Museum of
Victoria - A. Nebois. &
The Hymenoptera - R. Besserdin H
Interesting Literature For Entomologists - D. F. Crosby 13
Gall Insects - P. Kelly ^
The Golden Brown Butterflies of South-Eastern Australia -
C.G.L. Gooding. 1
The statements and opinions expressed in this Journal are the views of
the respective authors, and not necessarily those of the Society,
No article in this Journal may be reproduced without prior permission
of the author (s)' concerned.
August, 1972.
11 .
The Victorian Entomologist
E.S.V. ACTIVITIES
OFFICE BEARERS FOR 1972 :
President: Mr. C. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth. (89 9171).
Vice-President: Mr. A. Morton,
Hon. Secretary: Miss S, Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris. 3146 (50 5263).
Hon, Editor: Mr, A. Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd., Mitcham. 3132, (874 6119).
Hon. Treasurer: Mr, R, Condron, 96 Shannon St,, Box Hill Nth, 3129.
Hon. Librarian: Mr. R. Thompson, 5 Foote St., Elwood. 3184. (96 2541).
Excursion Secretary: Mr. N. Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley 3151.
(560 8145).
Immediate Past-President: Mr. P. Kelly.
DIARY :
Friday, August 18, 1972,
General Meeting, "Grid Areas for Faunal Studies",
Speaker: Dr, Brian Smith.
October 20, 1972. "Suggan Buggan"<^—
December 15, 1972, (Third Friday of the Month),
August, 1972,
1 .
The Victorian Entomologist
EDITORIAL
Ray Besserdin has retired from the position of Editor and has been succeeded
by me.
It is rather disappointing to see how few articles we have in the
present issue, particularly when one of the major articles is not even from
a member of the Society, Another distressing feature of the last few issues
(although not so much of this one) is that there have been very few articles
on any subject other than butterflies. It would be good to see articles on
other insects, not only beetles but also other orders less familiar to most
members. Results of research, species lists for particular areas, and
general observations are all welcome. If anyone is worried about fitting
an article to the scheme outlines in "Instructions to Authors" (Vol. 2,
No. 2, April, 1972), then perhaps he or she would like to discuss this with
me or another member of the editorial committee either at a meeting or over
the phone (my phone number is 874 6119). Remember, it is up to the members
to keep the j ournal going,
If you did not receive the June edition of the journal, then your
subscription for 1972 is overdue. Because of postal regulations, non-
financial members will not receive the journal as from this issue.
It is hoped that a members' list will appear in the next issue
of the journal.
A.D. Bishop
August, 1972.
2.
'The Victorian Entomologist
REPORTS AND NOTICES
GENERAL MEETING , Friday, June 16th, 1972, The Vice-President chaired
the meeting which was attended by 39 members and friends. Apologies were
received from Mr. § Mrs. J.C. LeSouef, Mr. B. Condron, Miss Matherson,
Mr. 5 Mrs. G. Burns. The Society wished a speedy recovery of Mr. Burns
from his illness.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed.
NEW MEMBERS
We wish to welcome the following new members:
Mr. W. Delaney, 73 Park Rd, Cheltenham. 3192.
Mr. M. Durkin, 7 Avondale Gve, Mt, Waverley. 3149.
Mr. A. Walford-Huggins, P.0. Box 169, Cairns, Nth. Queensland. 4870.
CORRESPONDANCE was received from;
1. Australian Entomological Society News Bulletin, Vol.8. Part 2, May 1972.
2. Australian Entomological Society Journal, Vol.ll, No. 2. June 1972.
3. Teen International Entomological Group Newsletter, Vol.6, No.2. 1971.
4. Teen International Entomological Group Newsletter, Vol.6, No.4.
5. Teen International Entomological Group Members List.
6. News Bulletin of the Entomological Soc. of Q'land. No.86, May,1972.
No.87,June,1972.
7. Rural Research in CSIRO Journal. No.75, March 1972.
8. The Peninsula Conservation League Newsletter. No. 19, May 1972 with
their petition against the construction of a sewerage pipeline and
road on the foreshore between Safety Beach and Rosebud.
The speaker for the evening was Mr. Paul Genery with a talk on
'Aquatic Insects'. Mr. Genery gave a very interesting account on the
life histories of these complex and fascinating insects, showing aspects
of their physiology. He completed his talk with a home movie of several
species photographed through a microscope.
EXHIBITS
1. Mr. R, Manskie: Three boxes containing several of the 98 species of
butterfly taken on his Cooktown Trip(8.4.72. - 4.6.72.^
2. Mr. F, Hallgarten: Collection of Aquatic Insects.
3. Mr. T. Morton: Skippers and Brown Butterflies taken from Barrington
Top Plateau and some related sub-species from New Guinea.
August, 1972.
3.
The Victorian Entomologist
COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP
It was decided at the general meeting to increase the membership fees
of Country Members from $1,00 to $2,00 at the next Society's Financial
Year.
HONORARY LIBRARIAN
With the accumulation of magazines and newsletters from various
organizations, it was felt necessary to create the position of Honorary
Librarian within the Society, who would take care of this material and
act as a liaison between members who wish to borrow material. Borrowed
matter shall be on loan for two months.
If you wish the Society to purchase any books for the Library, or
have any donations, please advise Mr. Bob. Thompson (96 2541).
RECENT ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY
International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, adopted by the
XV International Congress of Zoology.
PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
In order to encourage membership it was decided at the previous
Committee meeting to appoint Mr, J. Hutchinson as Public Relations
Officer. His task will be to send an introductory letter and a
Journal out to various people who may be interested in joining the
Society.
REPRESENTATIVE COUNCILLOR
As Mr. C. McCubbin will be unable to attend the Entomological
Congress as the Society's representative, Mr. A. Nebois was chosen
as his proxy.
DONATION
The Society thanked Mr. F. Hallgarten for his donation of a
brass replica of a fly.
********************
Mr. A. Nebois has entomological boxes available from the Museum
at $3.00 a box.
August, 1972.
4.
'The Victorian Entomologist
WANTED AT THE TIME OF THE ENTOMOLOGICAL CONGRESS
Living Eohidnaphaga gallinaceus - Stick-fast Flea. Please contact
the Hon. Miriam Rothschild, Ashton, Peterborough, England, before July 1st,
or during the Congress - Miss R. Shepherd,
Keith Turnbull Research Station,
Frankston.
****************
'Butterflies of Australia*
Reprint of 'What Butterfly is That'
I.F.B. Common and D.F, Waterhouse.
Angus and Robertson. $25,00
*****************
On Sunday, 2nd July, while up at Kinglake West, Jonathon Morton and I
were burning gumleaves when we sighted some sawn firewood. Dad came
up and said it was too green to burn. Then he saw some mistletoe
on a sawn branch, so we looked a little more carefully. We found
3 larvae of the Scarce Mistletoe Blue (Ogyris abrata) . I thought
this was unusual because the Scarce Mistletoe Blue is usually not
common in the mountains. Kinglake West is about 1500 ft. high.
The larvae were attended by a few tiny and very slender black
ants, probably a Bidomymex species.
DAVID QUICK
(Age 10)
EXHIBIT RECORDER
As it is essential that all exhibits brought to meetings are
recorded, and with as much detail as possible, Mr, A. Bishop has
accepted the responsibility of obtaining this information from
exhibitors.
One of the primary functions of this Journal is to act as a
liaison between all collectors, not only in this present time,
but also for collectors of the future.
Full details of your exhibits is extremely important, and
may be of unknown value to other collectors.
S. BEATTIE.
August, 1972.
5.
The Victorian Entomologist
Victorian Conservation Projects
By D. F. CROSBY
As a brief introduction, conservation in Victoria involves the
following bodies:
1. The Conservation Council of Victoria .
This is composed of representatives of all the various bodies
interested in nature generally, and includes the Field Naturalists'
Club, the Victorian National Parks Association and the Natural Resources
Conservation League, as some of the main supporters. It is a purely
non-governmental body.
2. The National Parks Service .
This is a government department responsible through its Director,
Dr. L. H. Smith, to the relevant Minister.
The Service receives advice on policy and developmental matters
from an Advisory Council composed of six people, three civil servants
nominated by the government and three from outside the government
but selected by it from nominations submitted by the Conservation
Council of Victoria,
3. The Land Conservation Council .
This is a body set up by the government consisting of a permanent
government-appointed Chairman, eight government department heads
(including the Director of the National Parks Service) and three
outside conservationists all selected by the government, one to
represent agricultural interests, and two from recommendations
from the Conservation Council of Victoria, (Professor J. Turner
and Mr. John Landy),
4. Other Government Departments.
These include the Forests Department
Lands Department
Soil Conservation Authority
Fisheries and Wildlife Department
State Rivers and Water Supply Commission
Probably one of the most important projects affecting the future use
of Crown or "Public" lands and the possibility of new National Parks
being declared out of them, 7 is the survey work being carried out by the
Land Conservation Council. The Council must carry out a thorough and
complete scientific investigation of an area before making any
August, 1972.
6.
The Victorian Entomologist
recommendations as to the balanced use of public land. The basic aim of
this investigation will be to collect, collate and assess technical
information about the land. Particular attention will be given to those
ecological features such as soils, climate, topography, fauna and flora,
which determine the usefulness of land for one purpose or another. Further ?
the investigations will consider the many uses of land required by the
community for different purposes,
The collection of this material will be undertaken by four scientific
officers of the Council, who have been allotted a study area each. In
turn, these officers will have assistance from officers within the State
Government departments and authorities represented on the Council.
On completion of the investigation, a report will be published
setting out the results of the studies and indicating the recommendations
of the Council. It is at this stage that the Land Conservation Council
will receive submissions from the general public.
However, at the moment, the Council is attempting to obtain FACTUAL
information on each of the four preliminary areas chosen, and the Council
has asked for the help of our Society in providing the following data
for each area:
1. The names of insect species of particular significance. (Their sign¬
ificance may be due, say, to economic importance, unusual ecology or
scientific value, localized distribution, etc,),
2. A map showing the location of land on which these species are known
to occur.
3. A description of the type of habitat each requires.
4. General comments on the whole of the insect population of the area,
e.g. Its diversity in relation to other areas.
The first area for which information is required is in the extreme
south-west of the State, enclosing a triangle whose sides are the sea,
the border and a line roughly drawn from Naracoorte to Port Fairy.
As we should all be vitally interested in conserving as much as
possible of the remaining undeveloped land in this State, it is felt
that the Society should assist the Council. To this end I have been
approached by the Council to obtain and co-ordinate this information
and would therefore appreciate it if members would co-operate by
supplying as much data as quickly as possible relative to the south¬
west area. (I would be interested to hear from anyone who has done
any collecting at all in the area).
August, 1972,
7.
'The Victorian Entomologist
At a later date full details of the other areas being surveyed will
be provided.
The author's address is 5 Russell Street, Toorak.
********************
Mr. Peter Sims, a noted Tasmanian bushwalker and naturalist will
present a programme entitled Tasmanian Wilderness - a two-hour film on
many aspects of Tasmanian bush life.
National Herbarium. 8.00 p.m. Friday 29 Sept.
Tickets free and may be obtained by phoning Ansett Air Lines
34 0921 Ext. 1063.
August, 1972.
8.
'The Victorian Entomologist
SPECIES OF BUTTERFLIES WANTED BY THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF VICTORIA
A, Nebois
PAPILIONIDAE
Graphium maoleayanus insulana Waterhouse
" " muggana Couchman
Paohliopta liris liris (Godart)
PIERIDAE
Eurema blanda indeeisa (Butler)
App-ias oelestina Boisduval
Appias albina albina Boisduval
App-ias ada caria Waterhouse § Lyell
Delias my sis aestiva Butler
Delias argenthona fragalaotea (Butler)
Delias ennia tindalii Joicey § Talbot
Delias nysa nivira Waterhouse 8 Lyell
NYMPHALIDAE
Danaus genutia alexis (Waterhouse § Lyell)
Danaus ferruginea gelanor (Waterhouse § Lyell)
Euploea aloathoe monilifera Moore
Euploea algae amyous Miskin
Euploea " reginae Carpenter
Euploea batesi belia Waterhouse § Lyell
Euploea olimens macleari Butler
Euploea aleoto nox
any other Danaids accidental to Australia.
Melanitis amabilis valentia Fruhst
Oreixenioa ptunarra angeli Couchman
" " ptunarra Couchman
August, 1972.
9.
'The Victorian Entomologist
Heteronympha oordaoe wilsoni Burns
" " kurena Couchman
Polyura pyrrhus tiberius (Waterhouse)
Cupha prosope turneri Butler
Hypolimnas antilops albula Wallace
Cethosia ohrysippe imperialis Butler
LIBTHEIDAE
Libythea geoffroyi genia Waterhouse
" " niaevillei Olliff
LYCAENIDAE
Liphrya brassolis melania Waterhouse $ Lyell
Jalmenus ioilius dementi Druce
" " mitoheli Edwards
" " form obscurus
Pseudalmenus chlorinda conccra Couchman
" " myrsilus Doubleday § Hewitson
" " fisheri Tindale
Narathura miaale amydon Waterhouse
Hypolyoaena phorbas ingura Tindale
Viraohola smilis Hewitson
Viraohola demodes Mi skin
Ogyris amaryllis parsonsi Angel
Ogyris oroetes apioulata Quick
Ogyris zosine zolivia Waterhouse
Paraluoia aenia luoida Crosby
Philiris innotatus evinoulis Wind. § Clench
Philiris kamerungal luoina Waterhouse ft Lyell
Philiris diana papuanus Wind. § Clench
August, 1972.
10 .
'The Victorian Entomologist
Philivis ziska (Gross-Smith)
Holochila goodingi Tindale
Adaluma urumelia Tindale
Ionolyce helicon hyllus Waterhouse § Lye11
Hypochrysops hippuris Hewitson
Hypochrysops piceata Kerr, Macqueen § Sands
Pseudodipsas cephenes Hewitson (Waterhouse)
Zetonia delospila Waterhouse
Nacaduba pactolus cela Waterhouse § Lye11
Nacaduba kurava filsina Waterhouse 5 Lyell
Petralaea dana eos Waterhouse § Lyell
Catochrysops amasea Waterhouse § Lyell
Ionolyoehelicon caracalla Waterhouse § Lyell
Pseudodipsas myrmecophila illidgei Waterhouse § Lyell
HESPERIIDAE
Tagiades trebellius neiva Platz
Trapezites macqueeni Kerr § Sands
Taxidia inornata Butler
Neohesperilla xanthomera Meyrick § Lower
Pasma polysema (Lower)
Taractrocera ilia ilia Waterhouse
Suniana larrakia Couchman
Oriens augustula augustula (Herrich-Schaffer)
Telicota melanion melanion (Mabille)
Borbo bevani (Moore)
August, 1972.
11.
’The Victorian Entomologist
THE HYMENOPTERA
R. Besserdin
ICHNEUMONIDAE
This is a very large family of wasps occurring all around Australia
especially along the coastal areas, Here they parasitize mainly Lepidopre-
vous larvae although some have been recorded parasitizing symphytous larvae.
The Ichneumons seem to be rather susceptible to desiccation in dry inland
regions as they must rely on large amounts of water to survive. In such
regions these wasps have been noticed to survive off tiny dew droplets which
they obtain from the leaves of plants or on blades of grass early in the
morning. As a result of this requirement these wasps are in abundance
along streams and a great variety of species are very plentiful all along
the humid coastal areas.
They seem to be a highly successful family ranging from very
large to small wasps, the smallest being approximately 6 mm. The larva
of this family may be either ectoparasites or endoparasite and are
generally white or creamy in colour and ellipsoid in shape. Specimens
of these wasps may be found all year round but are most common during
late summer and autumn.
BRACONIDAE
Unfortunately little is known about this widely-spread family,
large numbers are un-named and there are possibly many not yet
discovered. Since these small wasps are closely related to the
ichneumons many also share similar habits. Most of these wasps are
parasitic on Lepidopterous larvae, symphytous larvae and even the
tiny Chaloids. Braconida, prior to pupating leave the host remains,
and in groups find shelter (usually under bark),where they spin
cocoons and pupate. Most specimens are white, black and red with
clear dark wings and relatively small in size; there is however a
sub-family, the Exotheeinae , which are large orange and black wasps with
brightly infuscated wings. These wasps are distinguished from the
ichneumons fundamentally by the single recurrent vein in the fore¬
wing; ichneumons generally have two. Braconids are found over most
of Australia and more abundantly in the more humid areas; however they
can stand dryness far better than can ichneumons and therefore are
also quite plentiful inland.
August, 1972.
12.
'The Victorian Entomologist
POMPILIDAE
This well-known family contains the large brightly coloured
spider-hunter wasps. Much is known about individual species and their
habit of parasitizing spiders. All species are spider parasitizers;
but almost all individual species have different habitats and habits.
Probably the most common is Crytoaheilus which prey on the Sparrosids
that the female seeks out under bark, paralyses and carries back to
her burrow over the ground. Because these wasps are so well adapted
to their burrowing habits their pronotum is therefore larger than
normal wasps, and this becomes a handicap in flight. These wasps
however are very agile and are constantly in motion running quickly
over the ground or on tree-trunks in search for prey. After the prey
has been caught and paralysed some wasps may nibble the legs off
before carting the large body over the ground back to the nest.
Other wasps may carry the whole body back to their burrow. Usually
when a spider's leg is broken off, after some time;a thin membrane
forms over the wound and in time a new leg will grow there. This
is the reason why a legless host spider does not die until the wasp
larvae have fed on it. After digging a burrow in the sand or soft
earth^the wasp makes some circling flights around it, and as she
does, she takes note of various objects within a four-foot radius
of the burrow before she leaves to find her prey. These landmarks
will help her to recognize the burrow when she returns. It appears
that one female may run more than one burrow at a time. Species
are found all over Australia, mostly in coastal regions where prey
is plentiful. Sizes range from very large C30 mm) to small (8 mm)
and are mainly brightly coloured, although some are black and grey
with brightly infuscated wings.
August, 1972,
13.
The Victorian Entomologist
Interesting Literature for Entomologists
By D, F. CROSBY
1. "Naming the Living World" by Theodore Savory. (E.U.P. London). 1962.
Octavo, pp. 128.
This is a very useful little book setting out the principles and
practice of taxonomy, It can be used in conjunction with the next
book but most of the common technical terms are explained in detail.
It covers all living organisms, not just animals. (Obtained f ro m E.W.
Classey).
2. "International Code of Zoological Nomenclature" - published by the
International Trust for Zoological Nomenclature, London. 1961.
pp. i - xvii, 176 Octavo. This is a necessity for serious taxonomic
work, but much simpler to follow if the book by Savory has been
studied. (Obtained from the Trust).
3. "The Generic Names of the Butterflies and their Type Species" -
Francis Hemming. Bulletin of the British Museum (Natural History)
- Entomology. Supplement 9. London 1967. p,509 Octavo. An
essential authoratative treatise for all butterfly taxonomists.
(From the Museum £8.00).
4. "Butterflies of New Zealand" - W.B.R, Laidlaw, Collins. 1970.
Quarto, pp. 48 - A handy book for those interested in the butter¬
flies of New Zealand, All insects are illustrated by colour
paintings of fair quality. A reasonable amount of biological
data is provided. (From Classey £1.40).
5. "Butterflies of the Genus Vanessa and of the Resurrected Genera
Bassaris and Cynthia", William D. Field. Smithsonian Contrib¬
utions to Zoology No. 84. 1971. Octavo, pp. 105. - Revision of
World Species, including the two Australian representatives.
(From Smithsonian Institution Press, City of Washington,
U.S. $1.50).
6. "The Monarch Butterfly", F.A. Urquhait. University of Toronto
Press. 1960. Octavo, pp. i-xxiv, 361. A fascinating book
delving into the life of this famous insect. (From Classy
£5.20).
August, 1972.
14.
•The Victorian Entomologist
7. Some recent scientific papers -
(a) Nitikin, M.I. "Butterflies of the County of Cumberland with Special
Reference to Cabramatta N.S.W.
J, Ent. Soc. Aust, (N.S.W.) No. 7. (1970), p. 44.
(b) Nitikin, M.I. "List of Butterflies Collected in the County of
Cumberland, 1957-1963. ibid. 1. (1964). p. 45.
(c) Smithers, C.N. "Observations on Lord Howe Island Butterflies".
Aust. Zool, xv (3). 1970. p. 380.
(d) Peters, J.V. "Notes on the Distribution of Australian
Hesperioidea and Papilionoidea (Lepidoptera).
ibid, xv (2). 1969. p. 178.
(e) Smithers, C.N. and Peters, J.V. "The Butterflies of Norfolk,
Philip and Nepean Islands, ibid.
(f) Smithers, C.N. "A note on migrations of Vanessa kenshawi
(McCoy) (Lepidoptera : Nymphalidae) in Australia. 1963-1968."
ibid.
(g) Tite, G.E. "A Revision of the genus Anthene from the Oriental
Region (Lepidoptera : Lycaenidae)".
Bull B.M. (N.H.) ENTO. Vol. 18, No. 8,
(h) Eliot, J.N, "An analysis of the Eurasian and Australian
Neptini (Lepidoptera : Nymphalidae)".
Bull B.M. (N.H.) ENTO. Suppl. 15. 1969.
(i) Rose, A. "Butterflies observed in Kuringai-Chase National
Park, New South Wales". Proc. Roy. Zool. Soc. N.S.W.
1968/69. (1970). p. 48.
(j) Smithers, C.N. "A note on the seasonal occurrence of some
Norfolk Island Butterflies". ibid. p. 46.
(k) Haines, L.C, "The occurrence of Danis hymetus taygetus
(Felder) at Bayview, New South Wales".
ibid. 1967/68 (1969). p. 62.
(l) Peters, J.V. "The butterflies of Lord Howe Island".
ibid, p.63.
August, 1972.
15.
The Victorian Entomologist
(m) Ehrlich, P.R. "The Comparative Morphology, Phylogeny and Higher
Classification of the Butterflies (Lepidoptera : Papilioidea).
Univ, Kansas Sci, Bull, xxxix (8) 1958. p. 305.
8. Peters, J.V. "A catologue of the Type Specimens of the Hesperioidea
and Papilionoidea (Lepidoptera) i n the Australian Museum".
Aust. Entomological Press, Sydney 1971.
Quarto, pp. 36. (Publishers).
9. Smithers, C.N. "Norfolk Island Butterflies".
Aust. Entomological Press, Sydney. 1970.
Octavo, pp. 24. (Publishers).
10. Deger, D. § Eden, R. "Collecting Australian Butterflies".
Horowitz Publications, Sydney. 1970.
pp. 50. Small Octavo.
Note : I have found the best supplier of entomological literature to be:
E. W. CLASSEY LTD.,
353 Hanworth Road,
Hampton. Middlesex. England.
If you are interested, I would suggest you ask him to put you on his
mailing list for catalogues. He will also get any special requests for
you fairly quickly.
August, 1972.
16.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
GALL INSECTS
P. Kelly
Many insects that feed on plant tissue form galls. The gall is
entirely a product of the plant and develops in response to chemical
stimulants from the secretions of the insect. Galls may occur in leaves,
stems, flowers or roots, but each species of gall insect produces a
characteristic gall on a certain part of a particular type of plant.
The stimulus to the formation of the gall is usually produced by the
feeding stage of the insect; in a few cases the ovipositing adult
female produces the stimulus when she lays her eggs into the plant.
Each gall may harbor one or many gall insects, A gall may
have an opening to the outside, for example Hemiptera and Mites, or
they may be entirely enclosed* galls of larval insects. Six orders
of insects contain gall**making species.
Diptera
Hymenoptera
Coleoptera
Lepidoptera
Thysanoptera
Homoptera
flies
wasps
beetles
moths
thrips
aphids, psyllids and coccids
Other plant galls are caused by mites, roundworms and fungi.
In addition some species of Diptera and Hymenoptera are parasites on
gall insects and some are inquelines. The larvae of many small
Lepidoptera are gall feeders or gall tunnelers. Many galls on the
leaves and muds of eucalypts are caused by a symbiotic association
of nematoda and the larvae of small flies of the genus Fergusonia.
The following is a list of all families known to contain
gall making or gall inhabiting species. Some of these families may
consist almost entirely of such species,while others may have only
one or two, the other species of the family not being associated
with galls.
August, 1972.
17.
'The Victorian Entomologist
COLEOPTERA
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
DIPTERA
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
HEMIPTERA
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
LEPIDOPTERA
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
THYSANOPTERA
FAMILY:
HYMENOPTERA
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
FAMILY
GALL MAKERS
Beetles
Buprestidae Species of genera Paraeephala and Ethon
Chrysomel'Cdae Some Haltiodnae (Tle a Beetles)
Anthribidae Feed in existing galls?
Flies
Cecddomyi-Cdae Gall Midges or Gall Gnats
Agromyzidae
Fergusoninidae In association with Nematodes
Erioaoeidae
Aphddidae
Psyllidae
Gall-forming Coccids
Aphids
Lerps
Genera... Thaumatothrips
Eugymothrips
Kladothrips
Choleothrips
Cosmopterigidae
Atucitidae
Thrips
Phlaeothrip-idae
Wasps
Cynipinae
Ichneumonidae
Eulophidae
Eurytomidae
Torymidae
Pterohali-dae
Enoyrtidxe
)
)
) Chaleidoidea
)
)
galls on Casuarina
galls on Smilax
galls on Acacia
galls on Geijera
'The Victorian Entomologist
August, 1972,
DIPTERA
FAMILY:
HYMENOPTERA
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
FAMILY:
18.
INQUELINES and PARASITES
Flies
Ceoidomy'Li'dae Gall Midges or Gall Gnats
Some are true gall makers, some are parasites and others
are simply inquelines on other gall insects.
Wasps
Iohneumonidae
Braehonidae
Cynipidae
Eurytomidae
FAMILY: Eulophidae
FAMILY: Platygastevidae
FAMILY: Torymidae
GALL TUNNELING MOTHS
Tovtvioidae FAMILY:
Stathmopidae FAMILY:
Lyomet'iidae FAMILY:
Gvaoillariidae FAMILY:
Aegeriidae
Oeoophoeidae
Geleohiidae
Carposinidae
Pyraeidae
August, 1972,
19.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
The following article was reprinted by the courtesy of the Latrobe Valley
Field Naturalist Club and with the permission of the author.
THE GOLDEN BROWN BUTTERFLIES OF SOUTH-EASTERN AUSTRALIA
(And especially of Gippsland and the Victorian Dividing Range)
These lovely Butterflies, Sub-Family Satyvinae , contain all the
rich golden brown species with numerous ocelli (eye-like spots), and
various black markings which so enliven our forest lands, hillsides and
fern gullies. The headquarters of the family is south-eastern Australia,
with the greater number of species in Gippsland, and the mountain valleys
and peaks of the main Victorian Dividing Range.
There are also interesting species in south Western Australia,
and in Tasmania, where some unique, and archaic species are to be found.
These lovely butterflies always begin to appear in late Spring, through
Summer and Autumn, and are a never ending pleasure to Naturalists on
outings through the bushland and fern gullies. The larva of all of them
(with one exception) feed upon various native grasses, feeding in the
early part of the night and hiding during the day time. The larva are
green, rarely some shade of brown, and when found in the day time always
appear sluggish, but become active as night approaches, when they begin
to feed on the blades of the grasses.
The pupa of most of the species is a very beautiful object,
and is generally suspended from the food plant, but in some species it
is loose and found under sticks or in a frail network beside stones or
at the roots of herbage. The pupa is not hard to find by an experienced
Naturalist at the proper season for the species concerned,
The butterflies of the Satyvinae sub-Family are mostly of
medium size, but many small, dainty and beautiful species are found,
both in Australia and in other countries. One of the chief character¬
istics of them is that they have one or more of the principal veins
very much swollen near the base of their wings, the one exception being
that of the genus Melanitis , a fine large showy species which is found
from about Port Macquarie to Cape York. There is a most beautiful
pattern of silver-white bands, and spots, with other marks on the
underside of the hindwing, as well as ocelli on both wings, those on
the underside being artistically ringed - on a number of the species.
They are shade loving insects, but can often be seen visiting flowers
and sipping the nectar. When the eucalypts are in heavy blossom, I
have often seen and watched hundreds of Satyvinae of several species
feeding on the nectar.
August, 1972,
20.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
They mostly frequent long grass, undergrowth, wooded gullies and
dense forest, but most of them in very hot weather prefer cool shady places
Their flight is irregular and weak, and this is designed to give them added
protection from birds of prey. This irregular flight has, however, a very
disconcerting effect on both the bird of prey and the collector.
Satyrinae butterflies are very regular at the time of their
appearance - indeed they are so very much so that it is almost possible
to tell the time of the month from the first butterflies seen in the
season. Most of the species are single brooded, but a few, like the
genus Tisiphone, Argynnina and Melanitis are double brooded.
The colours of the undersides of many species are so beautifully
variegated and tinted that when they settle on the ground amongst debris
and dead leaves, it is almost impossible to see them. Nature has endowed
them with wonderful camouflage which they are very quick to use to the
best possible advantage.
Species of the sub-Family Satyrinae are found all over the
world, but are much more abundant at the higher altitudes, and are
more numerous in individuals and species in temperate regions than in
the tropics. South-eastern Australia (especially Gippsland) is very
rich in species - this region has quite a number of very fine ones,
some of which are quite rare, and have to be searched for very deli-
gently, several fine species being found only on the highest mountain
ranges.
Heteronympha solandri , the Great Golden Heteronympha, is one
species in particular that is found only at an altitude of from 4,000
to 5,000 feet. There are also several species of the genus Oriexenioa ,
very showy little butterflies, which are to be found at a similar
elevation during Summer and Autumn. The species of south-eastern
Australia are unique and showy, and have no relatives anywhere else
in the world. They do however show some affinity to butterflies of
the south of South America, and this shows that they are very old,
and of archaic origin, possessing a great and most interesting anti¬
quity.
The eggs of our Satyrinae are sometimes very beautiful, being
usually of various shades of green, roughly spherical with a flattened
base, and are finely and delicately ribbed. The young larva, on
hatching, are green and hairy with large black heads, but as they grow
to maturity quickly assume the characteristics of the true Satyrinae,
but most of them still retain their green colour, The heads provide
very good characteristics for the separation of the different species.
August, 1972.
21.
The Victorian Entomologist
they are easily reared in captivity on any good soft native grass - they all
feed at night and hide during the day.
One of the species of Satyrinae ( 'Tisiphone abeona) , is one of the
most remarkable butterflies in the world - it ranges from the Maroochy River
in Queensland right through coastal Eastern Australia, down through Wilson's
Promontory to Mount Gambier in South Australia. Throughout its wide range
it has produced eight well defined sub-species, some of which are extremely
beautiful. It is somewhat difficult to convince overseas entomologists
that all these eight are but one species. The Gippsland sub-species is
Tisiphone abeona dibifascia . Much has been written about the sub-family
Satyrinae by the late Dr. G. A. Waterhouse, who successfully paired and
crossed all these races through several generations, many thousands of
specimens being involved. The story is too long to deal with here. It
can be studied in papers written in 'The Proceedings of the Linnean
Society of N.S.W. 1922 - 1923' and in 'The Australian Zoologist, 1928'.
As the life history of all the races is the same, a brief
description here of one race is sufficient. The egg is green or bluish
green, nearly spherical and slightly roughened, the young larva is green
and has a shining black head with paler longitudinal lines, and covered
with minute white dots and very short white hair. The pupa is bright
green with wing cases outlined in bright yellow, and suspended head
downwards by the cremaster. The food plant of the larva is Gahnia
psittacorum, one of the Sword Grass plants.
During my long experience of over 50 years in the bush as a
Naturalist I have often studied butterfly behaviour. This is most
essential for it is only by watching the butterflies at play - chasing
each other through the shafts of sunlight that filter down from the
high eucalypts, that we can obtain an adequate appreciation of the
habits and other characteristics of the many species. While watching
the butterflies at play from a good vantage point I have often recalled
the beautiful lines from Haworth by Scudder:-
"Marok, while he moves amid the sunny beam,
O'er his soft wings to varying lustres gleam.
Launched into air, on purple plumes "he soars,
Gay Nature's face with wanton glance explores;
Proud of his varying beauties, wings his way,
And spoils the fairest flowers, himself more fair then they".
C.G.L. Gooding
( Warragul F.N.C.)
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
Vol.2:No.5
October 1972
Price 20c
Registered for posting as a periodicat-
Category B-
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects .
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the annual
Ordinary members
Country or Associate members
Junior members
Student members
general meeting.
$3.00.
$ 1 . 00 .
• $ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
LATROBF 5T
RADIO CARBON DATING
LAB
. \
CONFERENCE ROOM
CHIMNEY
enter courtyard here
LITTLE LONSDALE ST ONE WAY-*
Tj
C
or
cn
m
r
i-
lp
H
October, 1972
i.
'The Victorian Entomologist
CONTENTS
Office Bearevs and Diary
Reports and Notices 2.
Matters discussed at Publication and Committee Meetings 4.
List of Financial Members for 1972, 5.
Grid Mapping for Faunal Survey: Dr, Brian Smith 8.
The Life History 3 and Notes and Observations Of the rare Australian
f Cannibalistic r Butterfly- PSEUDODIPSAS CUPREA, Sands 1964: C,G,L.Gooding 10.
The Hymenoptera: Ray Besserdin 14.
Butterflies observed at Gloucester Falls: D.E.A. Morton 16.
Collecting in North-eastern Australia: Ray and Nola Manskie 17.
October, 1972.
1 .
’The Victorian Entomologist
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
Deputy President: Mr. J. C. LeSouef, Godfrey St., Blairgowrie. Vic. 3942.
(059.888413).
Vice-President: Mr. A. Morton, 15 Eilleen Street, Armadale. 3143.
Hon. Secretary: Miss S. Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris. 3146. (50 5263).
Hon. Editor: Mr. A. Bishop, 5 Warnes Road, Mitcham. 3132. (874 6119).
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. R. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. 3129.
Immediate Past-President: Mr. P.Kelly
Diary of Coming Events
Friday, October 20, 1972.
General Meeting - ' Suggan Buggan'. Speaker: Miss. Susan Beattie.
December 15, 1972 (Third Friday of the month)
Members night.
December 26 - January 1, Excursion to Suggan Buggan.
October, 1972.
2.
The Victorian Entomologist
REPORTS AND NOTICES
General Meeting : Friday, August 18th, 1972.
Mr. J. LeSouef chaired the meeting in the absence of the President
and Vice-President, which was attended by 43 members and friends. Apologies
were received from Messrs. Hall, Hallgarten, Morton, Neboiss, Holmes, Crosby
and Miss Matherson.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed.
The Society welcomed the return of Mr. & Mrs. Le Souef from their
recent trip and Mr. G. Burns after his recent illness and Mr. Greg Daniels
a visiting entomologist from Sydney.
Correspondence was received from:
1. Entomological Soc. of Q'land, News Bulletin, No. 88, Aug. '72.
2. Australian Entomological Mag. Vol. 1, Pt. 1. July 1972.
3. Resignation of Membership of Mr. P. Jacklin, dated 21.8.72.
4. International Congress of Entomology, 17 July, advising that arrangements
could be made to publicise the Society at the Canberra Congress.
5. T.I.E.G. Membership List. Jan. 1972. T.I.E.G. Journal Vol, 6, No. 4, 1971.
Vol. 7, No. 1, Spring 1972.
6. 'Save the Kangaroo Committee' informing of their city march 16 Sept. 1972.
7. Mr. David Boucher, 18 Old Market Place, Harleston, Norfolk. England,
wishing to obtain cocoons of Coscinosera hevcuZes.
8. Peninsula Conservation League, August 1972.
Exhibits :
Glynn McConnell: Butterflies from Beaumaris and
Dunk Island.
Mr. J. C. LeSouef Coleoptera from Cooktown and Tinaroo including the first
record of Pha'laorognathus muelleri Macl. (Lueanidae) - Golden Resplendant
Beetle - from Cooktown.
New Members : To be elected at the next General Meeting.
1. Mr. & Mrs. A. Walford-Huggins, P.0. Box 169, Cairns. Nth. Q'land.
2. Mr. D. Drake, 5 Fortesque St., Nth. Bexley. N.S.W. 2207.
3. Mstr. J. Robinson, 5 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. Vic. 3150.
4. Mstr, Stephen Smith, 29 Gillard St., Burwood. Vic. 3125.
5. Mstr. Neil Shaw, 16 Douglas Ave., Box Hill Sth. Vic. 3128.
6. Mr. G.B. Monteith, Dept, of Entom. Univ. of Q'land. St. Lucia. Q'ld. 4067.
7. Miss Helen Malcolm, 11/1 Arthur St., South Yarra. Vic. 3141.
8. Mr. Leigh Winsor, 8/4 Rathmines St., Fairfield. 3078.
October, 1972.
3.
The Victorian Entomologist
The Speaker
for the evening was Dr. Brian Smith. After explaining in detail
the method of grid division for faunal study Dr. Smith went on to speak on
his study of non-marine molluscs which he is undertaking to determine their
distribution and classification.
A summary of the method of grid mapping follows on page 8.
General Business :
1. Treasurers Report:
Mr. R. Condron reported that the Society's membership stood at
60 members and the financial standing was $50.00.
2. Public Relations Officer Report:
Mr. J. Hutchinson reported that a display plaque and a membership
form had been designed to advertise the Society. These will be on display
at the International Entomological Congress in Canberra, and the membership
forms shall be available at the Museum.
3. Excursions Secretary's Report:
Bay.
Mr. N. Quick distributed circulars on the coming trip to Waratah
1972 Excursions: Big Desert.
Dec. 26 - Jan 1, 1973 - Suggan Buggan.
For further details contact N. Quick (560 8145).
4. Editors Report:
Mr. Ray Besserdin was thanked for the work he did as Editor
before standing down. His position has been taken up by Mr. A. Bishop
who stated his concern over the lack of articles and the number of articles
written on butterflies only.
5. Vote of Thanks:
A vote of thanks was extended to Mr. Tom Greaves, who has
donated to the Society a series of reprints on Termites which he wrote
whilst working in Canberra with the C.S.I.R.0. on the Termite research
programme. These reprints shall be kept in the Library.
October, 1972.
4.
’The Victorian Entomologist'
6. 1973 Meeting Place:
As the Conference Room at the Museum is becoming more overcrowded
each month due to the increasing membership and attendance, it was proposed
by the Secretary to hold meetings in 1973 at the Clunies Ross House,
National Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville.
The Society is entitled to 10 general meeting dates, and 10
Committee dates per year, with seating accommodation of 75-500 places.
The Society shall continue to meet on the second last Friday of
every second month from 8.00 - 11.00 p.m.
The decision to meet at this new location was passed unanimously.
Miscellaneous :
Mr. A. Neboiss acting as a convenor, has insect boxes, and
reprints on insects available.
MATTERS DISCUSSED AT THE PUBLICATION MEETING (3.9.72.)
1. General layout of format of the Journal.
2. That authors' addresses be included with articles, to be discussed at the
next General Meeting.
3. That reports of Publication and General Committee meetings be included
in the Journal.
4. That Instructions to Authors be sent to new members.
5. That an issue of the Journal be sent to any non-member who has
contributed an article.
6. The next volume of the Journal, in 1973, shall be numbered consecutively
throughout the year.
7. An index shall appear at the end of each volume of the 'Victorian
Entomologist'.
MATTERS DISCUSSED AT THE COMMITTEE MEETING (24.9.72.)
1. As Mr. C. McCubbin, our President, is at present in England, Mr. J.
LeSouef will act as Deputy-President until the end of the year.
2. Mr. A. Bishop was elected 'Grid Survey Secretary'. Working in conjunction
with the Museum, Mr.Bishop shall collate data supplied by members to help
determine distribution of insect species throughout Victoria.
October, 1972.
5.
The Victorian Entomologist
3. - To prevent mismanagement of the Society in the future and to ensure its
efficient progress it was decided to draw up rules of management.
4. It was decided to organize a suitable display for the 1973 Nature Show,
largely to advertize the Society.
5. Prices for metal badges, car stickers were discussed.
FINANCIAL MEMBERS FOR 1972
Mr. John Alderson, 32 Longs Rd., Lower Plenty. Vic, 3093.
Mr. Andrew Atkins, 2 Brake Ave., Frenchville. Nth.Rockhampton. Q'ld. 4701.
Mr. John Barnes, 42 Lucknow St., Mitcham. Vic. 3132. Diptera
Miss Linda Barraclough, 1 Xavier Ave., Hawthorn. Vic. 3122.
Miss Susan Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris. Vic. 3146. Coleoptera,Buprestidae
Mr. Ray Besserdin, 35 Quinn St., Heidelberg. Vic. 3084. Hymenoptera
Mr. Dennis Black, 3 Eyre Crt., Lower Templestowe. Vic. 3107.
Mr. Anthony Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd., Mitcham. Vic. 3132. Lepidoptera. Collembola.
Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Burns, 3 Inglis St., Mornington. Vic. 3931. Coleoptera.
Mr. Robert Condron, 93 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. Vic. 3129. Lepidoptera.
Mstr. Steven Condron, 93 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. Vic. 3129.
Mr. Mark Connor, 34 Gloucester St., Reservoir. Vic. 3073. Lepidoptera.
Mr. David Crosby, 7 Russell St., Toorak. Vic. 3142. Australian Rhopalocera
Mr. W. Delaney, 73 Park Rd., Cheltenham. Vic. 3192.
Mr. Randal Delaney, 73 Park Rd., Cheltenham. Vic. 3192.
M r . Nigel Delaney, 73 Park Rd., Cheltenham. Vic. 3192.
Mr. D. Drake, 5 Fortesque St., Nth. Bexley. N.S.W. 2201. Lepidoptera.
Mr. Mike Durkin, 7 Avondale Gve., Mt. Waverley. Vic. 3149.
Mr. Paul Frank, 15 Canberra Gve., Beaumaris. Vic. 3193.
Mr. Fred Hallgarten, 6 Park St., Pascoe Vale. Vic. 3044. General Entomology
Mr. John Hallgarten, 6 Park St., Pascoe Vale. Vic. 3044.
Mr. David Holmes, 'Holmden', Red Hill. Vic. 3937. Lepidoptera <S Coleoptera
Mr. Pete Hulbury, 3 Coorie Cres., Rosanna. Vic. 3084.
Mr. James Hutchinson, 24 Junction Rd., Blackburn Nth. Vic. 3130.
Lepidoptera. Odonata.
October, 1972.
6.
The Victorian Entomologist
Mr. Peter Kelly, 260 The Boulevard, East Ivanhoe. Vic. 3079. Coleopteva
Mr. & Mrs.Cecil LeSouef, Godfrey St., Blairgowrie. Vic. 3942.
Lepidopteva and Coleopteva
Mr. Nick LeSouef, C/~ Godfrey St., Blairgowrie. Vic. 3942.
Mr. Peter Lillywhite, 9 White St., Mt. Waverley. Vic. 3149. Lepidopteva
Miss Helen Malcolm, 11/1 Arthur St., South Yarra. Vic. 3141. General
Entomology
Mr. Ray Manskie, 8 Smith Rd., Springvale Nth. Vic, 3170. Lepidopteva
Lyoaenidae
Miss E. Matherson, C/~ Entom. Div., Nat. Museum, Russell St., Melbourne.
Vic. 3000.
Mr. Glynn McConnell, 22 Reid St., Beaumaris. Vic. 3193.
M r. Charles McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth. Vic. 3129. Lepidopteva
Mr. Shane McEvey, 5 Gissing St., Blackburn Nth. Vic. 3130.
Miss Susan Meier, 73 Grey St., East Melbourne. Vic. 3002.
Mr.G.B.Monteith,Dept.of Entomology, Univ. of Q'land. St.Lucia. Q'ld. 4067.
Hemipteva and Coleopteva
Mr. Anthony Morton, 15 Eileen St., Armadale. Vic. 3143. Lepidopteva
Mr, Malcolm Moss, P.0. Box 2807 AA, Melbourne. Vic. 3000. Dipteva
Mr. Max Moulds, 14 Chisholm St., Greenwich. N.S.W. 2065.
Mr. Arthurs Neboiss, C/- Entom.Div., Nat. Museum, Russell St., Melbourne.
Elatevidae. General Entomology.
Mr. Brian O'Neill, 327 Francis St., Yarraville. Vic. 3013. Lepidopteva.
Mr. Wayne O'Neill, 327 Francis St., Yarraville. Vic. 3013.
Mr. J. Ozols, 6 Dunlop St., Maribyrnong. Vic. 3032. General entomology.
Mr. Richard Pound, 21 Miriam St., Rosanna. Vic. 3084. Fovmiaidae.
Mr. David Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. Vic. 3151.
Mr. Nigel Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. Vic. 3151. Lepidopteva
(Rhopaloceva)
Mr. Grant Richard, 25 Norwood St., Sunshine. Vic. 3020.
Mstr. James, Robinson, 5 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. Vic. 3150.
Mr. Otto Rogge, 22 Arthur St., East Coburg. Vic. 3058. Hymenopteva.
Mstr. Neil Shaw, 16 Douglas Ave., Box Hill South. Vic. 3128. Coleopteva.
October, 1972.
7.
The Victorian Entomologist
Mstr. Stephen Smith, 29 Gillard St., Burwood. Vic. 3125. Coleoptera
Mr. & Mrs. John Strong, Flat 11, Palm Crt., 1160 Dandenong Road,
Murrumbeena, Vic. 3163.
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Thompson, Flat 3, 5 Foote St., Elwood. Vic. 3184.
Coleoptera .
Victorian Plant Research, Chief Biologist, Swan St., Burnley. Vic. 3121.
Mr. John Wainer, 14 Ocean St., Hampton. Vic. 3188.
Mr. & Mrs. Allan Waiford-Huggins, 'Kamerunga Biol. Labs', P.0. Box 169,
Cairns. Nth.Q'land. 4870.
Mr. Clyde Wild, 22 Cassinia Ave., Ashwood. Vic. 3147.
Mr. Peter Williams, 163 Rachardson St., Nth. Carlton. Vic. 3054. Coleoptera
Mr. Leigh Winsor, 8/4 Rathmines St., Fairfield. Vic. 3078. Siphonaptera.
Exchange and Complimentary Membership :
Victorian Fisheries & Wildlife Library, 123 Brown St, Heidelberg.Vic.3084.
Victorian State Library, Swanston St., Melbourne. Vic. 3000.
Teen International Entomological Group, 315 Plant Science Building,
Cornell Univ. Ithaca. N.Y. U.S.A. 14850.
CSIR0 Dept, of Entomology, (Austn.Entom.Soc.) P.0. Box 109, Canberra City.
A.C.T. 2601.
G.P.0. Melbourne Royal Mail House, 255 Bourke St., Melbourne. Vic. 3000.
Entomological Society of Australia, Box 22, Five Dock, N.S.W. 2046.
Victorian National Museum Library, 285 Russell St., Melbourne.Vic. 3000.
National Library of Australia, Preparation Branch, Canberra. A.C.T. 2600.
Honorary Member :
Mr. Tom Greaves, 71 Coranderrk St., Reid. Canberra City. A.C.T. 2601.
Forest Research.
October, 1972.
8.
The Victorian Entomologist
GRID MAPPING FOR FAUNAL SURVEYS
by
Brian J. Smith
Curator of Invertebrates, National Museum of Victoria
The only realistic way to carry out a systematic survey of the
fauna of any given area is to sub-divide the area into "manageable" pieces.
These must be small enough to enable the results to be a true reflection of
the actual distribution of the animal being studied, and large enough to
enable the area to be covered thoroughly in a reasonable time. Thus faunal
surveys are always a compromise between scientific accuracy and practical
feasibility.
The subdivision of the area can be carried out using any criteria
which serve the purpose best. Some old surveys in Britain were based on
the political boundaries of county, vice-county or parish, but the mapping
of the distribution of wild animals on such irregular areas gave rise to
some very peculiar distribution records. Far better is the regular
geometrical grid, dividing the area into a series of exactly similar, and
therefore more or less comparable, rectangles or squares. Using such a
system an accurate indication of the animals distribution is easily seen
as a mark in each square in which the animal is found quickly gives a
"dot-map" of the animals distribution. The size of the grid to be used
depends on the size of the area to be surveyed because of the criterion
of practical feasibility. Clearly the grid needed to survey the distrib¬
ution of an animal in a National Park would be vastly different from the
grid needed to survey the distribution of the same animal throughout
Victoria. Yet both these surveys should give an accurate picture of the
animals distribution in the two areas.
In Europe several large surveys are under way using a distance-
based grid unit, giving grid squares of exactly equal areas over vast
regions. Thus the European Invertebrate Survey with joint headquarters
in Belgium and Britain are surveying many invertebrate groups all over
Europe on a 50 km grid; while many individual countries are doing
national surveys using a 10 km grid. The advantage of this system is
that the grid squares over the whole area of survey have exactly the
same areas and thus results are easily compared. However the system
suffers from two big drawbacks. Firstly it is tedious to transfer data
from one scale map to another as the grid is based on distance and not
angular measurement. Secondly, because of the curvature of the earth
a linear grid requires "zones of compensation" every so often to allow
the curved surface to be represented by a flat picture. These can be
avoided over a small area but in large areas, these zones make mapping
very difficult.
October, 1972.
9.
The Victorian Entomologist
The other main grid base available, and this is the one in use in
Victoria, is the one based on angular measurement (degrees and minutes). The
International Biological Programme uses a grid of one degree of latitude by
one and a half degrees of longitude, which is exactly equal to one large
sheet of 1:250,000 sheet maps. These large divisions can then be divided
into 54, 10 minute squares. However, because they are based on angular
measurement, they are not square and their areas differ fractionally from
place to place. In Victoria each of the 10 minute squares measures
approximately 9 miles by 11 miles or 14 km x 18 km. However they can be
easily located on maps of any scale and they relate directly to ground
measurements. It is this method of grid mapping which is being used at
present by the botanists in a botanical survey in Victoria and by me in a
survey of non-marine molluscs in Victoria.
In this non-marine mollusc survey I am using a four digit code
to designate the grid square of each specimen that comes in. The first
two digits nominate the large square, while the last two digits nominate
from which 10 minute square within the big square the specimen comes.
For example a specimen from within the City of Melbourne would carry
the number 2042, meaning that it is on large square 20 and in small
square 42 of that square.
At the end of this survey, in several years time, it is hoped
to produce a dot distribution map for each species of non-marine mollusc
in Victoria which should be an invaluable tool in further work on the
taxonomy and ecology of the molluscs in the State.
October, 1972.
10.
'The Victorian Entomologist
THE LIFE HISTORY, AND NOTES, AND OBSERVATIONS OF THE RARE AUSTRALIAN
"CANNIBALISTIC" BUTTERFLY - PSEUDODIPSAS CUPREA SANDS 1964*
FAMILY, LYCAENIDAE : GENUS, PSEUDODIPSAS.
It was my intention in 1960-61 to name, and describe, and give the
complete life-history for the first time, of this new and rare butterfly,
Pseudodipsas cuprea.
I was waiting at that time for the return from overseas of an old
friend, who had promised to help with the photography and the text.
In 1964 I was forstalled, and the butterfly was named, and
described, and called "Pseudodipsas cupnea, but nothing else concerning
it was published.
I propose in the notes to publish for the first time, the complete
life-history, from the egg to the adult butterfly, of one of the Worlds
most fascinating butterflies.
We will begin by giving a brief technical description first, this
will be followed by notes and observations kept and put together since
the summer of 1917.
Butterfly - Male, forewing with termen very slightly arched, dark brown,
basal areas rich coppery which extends to tornus.
Hind-wing somewhat square dark brown with rock coppery basal
areas, two dark spots near tornus, and cilia white.
Butterfly - Female, with coppery areas replaced by blue, and wings more
rounded.
Butterfly - Underside, light brown, with a pattern of brown bands peculiar
to the genus, and spots edged with dark brown, tornus with
black spots corresponding with upper surface,
of the usual Lyoaenidae type, rough, and finely pitted, and
when fresh pearly white, changing to greyish a few hours
after being laid.
of the usual Lyoaenidae type, onisciform, but being longer
than most Lyoaenidae larva and very active.
Colour, can best be described as being between a cream, and
putty shade, head black, and shield behind head brown.
Each segment has several brown dots, and from each dot, a
short stout hair, with a number of shorter hairs over rest
of body.
dull black, smooth, and much longer, and more slender, than
most Lycaenidae pupa.
This technical description, has been purposely kept to a minimum.
Egg ~
Larva -
Pupa -
October, 1972.
11.
The Victorian Entomologist
Notes, and observations recorded since the summer of 1917 .
It was on December 15th, 1917, when many miles out in the bush,
and watching for bush-fires, that I first found this rare species of
butterfly.
I drove my axe into a dry stumy to have a short spell from the
oppresive heat of bush fires, when I noticed two butterflies on the side
of the stump, these two specimens, both females are still in my collection.
The butterflies were quite, and allowed me to take them off with my fingers,
the stump was swarming with ants of the Iridomyrmex genus.
I opened one side of the stump with my axe, and saw two larva
which I could not recognize, I strapped the stump together with a piece
of wire, intending to come back to it later.
Bush-fires, are mighty masters, and there were sterner things
to attend to that day, beside collecting butterflies. The area was
completely burnt out the following day, so I had to make a fresh start
to find the butterfly again.
I learnt enough of that particular area, and habitat to tell me
what to look for, so it was only a few years later that I found the
butterfly again, in very similar country, where the Peppermint Eucalyptus,
and other vegetation, resembled the burnt out area.
On December 26th 1922, I netted two males feeding on tea-tree
blossum, so I was very elated at finding the butterfly again, I was very
keen to obtain more specimens, as I felt it was a new species.
The typical habitat is Peppermint Eucalyptus country, with some
trees dying, and other trees with dead limbs, or partly dead top, stumps
also are very useful if they shelter food colonies of the iP'Cdomyrmex
ant.
These types of trees give very good shelter to the Iridomyrmex
ant, the trees generally being riddled with holes of the Longicorn
Beetles which the ants use for their nests.
I visited the area several times during the following weeks,
and on one occasion saw two specimens of Pseudodyosas awpvea flying
high over these partly dead trees presumably on a "mating flight",
but none would come down to feed on blossom.
This area was cleared by the bull-dozers, and ploughed up the
following year, so once again I had to make a fresh start.
October, 1972.
12.
The Victorian Entomologist
While working on my stud farm in the intervening years, I noticed
on a 5 acre paddock a number of Peppermint trees in a very unhealthy or
dying condition, I kept these trees under close observation during the
summer months.
During the summer of 1937 I saw what I thought to be a specimen
of Pseudodipsas cuprea flying high over a tree of Peppermint Eucalypt,
this convinced me that I must investigate that tree.
The following day, I felled that tree, and carefully split open
all the dead limbs, which were swarming with the Iridomyrmex ant.
I found two larva of Pseudodipsas cuprea, in seperate borer
holes, one a little more than half grown, the other one about \ grown.
I placed these two larvae, in separate borer holes, which were infested
with the Iridomyrmex ant, on a Cootamundra acacia tree in my garden.
This acacia tree had a large dead top swarming with the
Iridomyrmex ants, and in the ensuing years while breeding a long series
of Hypochrysops delicia delos from this tree, I also bred a series of
Pseudodipsas cuprea from the same tree, and at the same time as well.
This seemed to me to be a long journey from that hot summer
day in 1917.
The successful conclusion in this life long search for
Pseudodipsas cuprea, and the discovery of its life history, gives any
Naturalist a lot of pride, which rather makes up a little for the
disappointment of being robbed of the pleasure of naming the butterfly,
and describing it.
At the time I gave several specimens of Pseudodipsas cuprea
away to collector friends. I should not have done this, for at that
stage my health was giving my family, and myself some concern.
I think my notes have proved without doubt that Pseudodipsas
cuprea is purely a carnivorous butterfly, and feeds on young ant larva.
In some strange way the ants feed the tiny minute larva, in
much the same way as they feed their own young, until the larva are
strong enough to attack the ant pupa, and young ants, by sucking the
juices from their bodies.
It is indeed a strange relationship!
October, 1972.
13.
The Victorian Entomologist'
I have on several occasions watched a female cupvea laying her eggs
in clusters of 2 or 3 or more on the well worn "ant runs", 2 hours after, the
eggs were laid the ants had collected all of them, and taken them to their
nests in the various holes in the tree.
I have never found more than one Pseudoddpsas larva, in a hole
with the ants, I believe the larva are cannibalistic, and will attack, and
devour each other.
I trust my readers will find these notes, and observations, on
Pseudodipsas oupvea , and its amazing and fascinating life-history
interesting.
C.G.L. (Llewellyn) Gooding,
Honorary Life Member.
Warragul Field Naturalist Club.
* The date 1966 in "Australian Butterflies", by Charles McCubbin is an
error for which Mr. McCubbin is not responsible.
The above article originally appeared in "The Latrobe Valley Naturalist
and is reprinted with the author's permission.
October, 1972.
14.
’The Victorian Entomologist
THE HYMENOPTERA
It is hoped that from the past, present and future articles a
greater interest and understanding of this unsurpossedly economically important
order will be gained, and that a brief knowledge of all the different families
and their roles in the insect world may be obtained. It may be of importance
to the strict coleopterist and lepidopterist since of the great part played
by the Hymenoptera in the ecology of beetles and butterflies.
SCOLIIDAE: (Hairy flower wasps)
In connection with Coleoptera this family is of high economic
importance especially to the scarabs, which are the Scoliids' most predom¬
inant form of prey. These usually medium to large wasps are fossorial in
habits and hence parasitize their prey while it is underground, usually in
the larval stage. They are not very strong fliers but buzz loudly. Probably
very much like the Pompilids in that their fossorial habits have increased
the size of the pronotum although Scoliids and Pompilids are completely
unrelated. The Scoliids are a rather ancestral family of wasps and have
a number of world wide relatives including distant relatives such as the
Apoidea and Formicoidea, the bees and ants. The dimorphism is quite
distinct since males of most species are usually long and slender with
black thorex and yellow and black striped markings on the abdomen, while
females are generally large to medium in size, very bulky and stoutly
built; colouring is usually from black to yellow, gold or orange in
marking or in complete colouring. All species are hairy to very hairy
and range over all of Australia, coastal and inland, however it is quite
unfortunate that rather little is known about this intriguing and
interesting family. The larva spins a brown ellipsoid silky coccoon
underbark where it pupates after leaving the host's body. Some imagines
may hatch as late in the year as March, other as early as September.
TIPHIIDAE: (Flower Wasps)
Once known as the Thynnidae this is also a very closely related
family to the Scoliids, in fact in the same superfamily, and so shares
similar habits with them. The females of the sub-family Thynninae are
apterous and fossorial in habit as are the Scoliids. With Di-coma bicolor
(Blue ant) it has been noticed that the female insensitizes Gryllotapids
(mole crickets) in their burrows and then drags the victim to her own
burrow where she lays an egg on a limb. During summer females are often
seen on the ends of leaves or grass blades while they wait for a male;
there is quite a controversy as to how the female is picked up by the
male or whether the female grabs the male; however that is open to
further study. After mating the female lets go of the mole cricket and
drops to the ground where she runs off to dig for larval scarab prey,
(as in species other than Diamma bicolor).
October, 1972.
15.
The Victorian Entomologist
There are two other sub-families known in Australia, both of
which have winged males and females; these are the Anthabosainae and the
Tiphiinae. Both these sub-families are fossonal in habit and are believed
to be scarab parasites.
The Tiphiids are well represented in Australia and although
quite a bit is known about them they are still in need of much further
study. Generally slender in appearance except for the Anthabosainae
and Tiphiinae, their colours range from black to greys, yellows and
oranges. Larvae pupate in pear-shaped brown silken coccoons within the
host's body, imagines appear during early spring and late summer.
MUTTILIDAE: (Solitary Wasps)
Another family related to the Seoliidae and again under the
superfamily Seotioidea . These wasps possess similar characters to the
Thynninae in that the females are completely apterous and copulate
with males during flight. Commonly referred to as 'Solitary ants',
'Solitary wasps', or even 'Velvet ants', they usually parasitize
solitary species of vespoid and sphecoid wasps and solitary bees. The
integument is incredibly inpenetrable and rugase in external appearance.
Owing to the great difference in sexual dimorphism and the fact that
species are rarely found in copulation many of Australian species
have been incorrectly classified, resulting in an over estimation
of the number existing species. Females are generally 'ant-like' in
appearance but with round hairy heads and the flagellum of the antenna
is normally curved. Both female and male have a highly elongated
second abominal segment and this together with the ridges separates
females mutilids from ants. They are best represented in the tropics
but found over most of Australia including southern desert and coastal
areas. These wasps are generally very hairy and colours range from
rust reds and whites to blacks and greys. Specimens may be found
almost anywhere : under bark, in litter, on trunks, and on the ground.
Lavae pupate in the host's body and emerge from early spring through to
late summer in the south; other than this again little is known of
their habits.
RAY BESSERDIN
October, 1972.
16.
The Victorian Entomologist
BUTTERFLIES OBSERVED AT GLOUCESTER FALLS
21 - 23 JAN. 1972
by D.E.A, Morton.
This notes gives a list of butterflies observed in the Gloucester Falls
area of the Barrington Tops National Park. The Falls are some 30 miles
West from the Stroud-Cloucester road, following the road signposted
Gloucester Tops. There are many fords to cross, which become impassable
to ordinary vehicles if there has been a lot of rain. Altitude about
3,500 feet.
HESPERIIDAE
Anisynta dominula chcaoo (Meyr.) Dominula Skipper.
*■ Hesperilla arypsargyra hopsoni Waterh. Silvered
Skipper. On the big Gahnia.
Signeta flarmeata (Butl.) Bright Shield Skipper.
Very common.
Few seen.
Plentiful.
PAPILIONIDAE
Graphium macleayanus macleayanus (Leach) Macleay's
Shallowtail.
PIERIDAE
Delias nigvina (Fab.) Common Jezabel.
A few worn
specimens seen.
One seen.
NYMPHALIDAE
Heteronympha merope merope (Fab.) Common Brown.
Heteronympha penelope penelope Waterh. Shouldered Brown.
Heteronympha cordace cordace (Geyer) Bright-eyed Brown.
Oreixenica lathoniella herceus W. & L. Common Silver
Xenica.
Oreixenica kershawi ella (Oil.) Kershaw's Brown.
Geitoneura klugi klugi (Guer.) Klug's Xenica.
Tisiphone abeona regalis Waterh. Swordgrass Brown.
Very common.
Vanessa kershaui (McCoy) Australian Painted Lady.
Vanessa itea (Fab.) Australian Admiral.
Scarce.
Plentiful.
Plentiful.
One seen.
Several seen.
Several seen.
Variable.
Few seen.
Two seen.
LYCAENIDAE
Neoluaia hobavtensis monticola F. & L. Mountain Blue Several seen.
Zizina otis labradus (Godt.) Common Grass-blue. Plentiful.
* Toxidia vietmanni rietmanni (Semp.) White-brand
Skipper.
One female
seen.
October, 1972.
17.
'The Victorian Entomologist
Collecting in North-eastern Australia.
8 April 1972 - 4 June 1972.
by R.C. and Nola Manskie.
Many other collectors have done trips similar to this; but for us, it was
a new experience and something that we will always remember : eight weeks
collecting and observing Lepidoptera. We had gained much information and
advice from other collectors and interested people, nevertheless a certain
feeling of anticipation of whay lay ahead of us must have been obvious,
especially to our friends "Zoo" and Mary LeSouef, who we feel were the
instigators of our trip.
We chose the inland route to Queensland and travelled approx¬
imately 6500 miles on our journey to Cooktown, Q. and back to Springvale
N., Vic., during which time 103 different species were taken; 450 specimens
were set and stored for travelling (these storage cases were laid between
blankets, on the rubber mattress, in the back of the station wagon; and
in this way no movement of specimens was noted during the entire trip);
also many other specimens were enveloped.
Our collecting commenced on the third day : after driving
many miles through the Pilliga Scrub, we were pleased to come upon open
She-oak ( Casuarina ) Country (15 miles S. of Dalby); here several
specimens of Ogyris amaryllis amaryllis , were observed flying around
the mistletoe on the Casuarina ; Catopsilia pyranthe crokera and
Catopsilia pomona pomona were netted.
It was always interesting to us to observe the different
collecting spots (these had been noted down prior to the commencement
of our trip) as we travelled further north; one of our disappointments,
however, was not being able to get to some of the better known favourite
areas around Cooktown - these being Shipton's Flat and Archer Point -
owing to the unexpectedly long wet season, nevertheless, with our friend
Archie May, we had two days exploring the Annan River (10 miles S. of
Cooktown); and trying to reach the mouth. Here in the mangroves we
netted Hypoohrysops narcissus narcissus and collected several pupae of
Hypochrysops apelles apelles, Jalmenus evagoras eichhorni was collected
in all stages; larvae, pupae, and butterflies, at Trevethan Creek (17
miles S. of Cooktown).
Hypochrysops narcissus narcissus was also taken at Yule Point
(17 miles N. of Cairns); once again it was very local and common;
sometimes a dozen or more specimens were seen at the one time. A
thorough search of the mistletoe on the mangroves was made, for this
species, seeking the life history but no conclusion was formed as to
where it was breeding.
October, 1972.
18.
The Victorian Entomologist
To us the Mission Beach area seemed to support many species of
butterflies; we spent approximately two weeks here, and perhaps the most
exciting experience was taking Liphyra brassolis major (male); it was
plucked from a toilet wall at 11.55 p.m. on 17.5.72; we would like to
know if this butterfly has ever been taken in this manner before; we feel,
it was attracted to the lights surrounding the toilet block. It was also
a thrill to net, for the first time, Papilio ulysses joesa (male); these
were flying in great numbers.
Because of the limited time; a choice had to be made between
collecting a quantity of species or studying life histories; we chose
to collect as many species as possible and be content with seeking one
or two life histories.
Knowledge of localities and surroundings, becomes more obvious
when you are able to collect with notable entomologists; we had the
pleasure of collecting with M. J. Manskie at Maryborough, Q., and A.
Atkins; and G. and Anne Daniels at Rockhampton.
To conclude we feel we must mention an extract from a letter,
written by our frient Archie May, and sent to our children during our
absence : a humorous side to collecting butterflies - "Yesterday, I
went to the Mowbray River (S. of Daintree Crossing), and there were
beautiful Leafwings (.Collesclvxllia bisaltide australis ) flying, but it
definitely was not my day, they would sit in front of me and open their
wings; a lovely yellow; but although they were nearby in the net, there
was always a stick or something in the way. Those butterflies really
tormented me all the morning until I was exhausted and hungry; and
when I sat down to have my lunch on the tail gate of the car and took
the things out of the lunch box, one came and sat on the lunch box
right in front of my nose and opened its wings; of course I slowly
rose up to get the net, and when I was ready to swipe, it flew into
the car; when it came out it sat on the honey pot; I was just going
to swipe again, when it flipped and sat on my shoulder!! How was
I going to catch it? I had not practices that one, with a long
handled net. Those leaf wings were too good for me, I caught some
oak blues instead; butterfly catching is hard work!!"
October, 1972.
19.
The Victorian Entomologist'
LIST OF SPECIES
NAME
Family HESPERIIDAE:
Hasora hurama hurama (Broad-banded Awl) 1
Badamia exclamationis exclamationis (Brown Awl) 2
Tagiades japetus Janetta (Black and White Flat) 3
Notoorypta waigensis proserpina (Banded Demon) 4
Arrhenes dschilus iris (Iris Skipper) 5
Cephrenes triahopepla (Yellow Palmdart) 6
Cephrenes augiades sperthias (Orange Palmdart) 7
Sabera caesina albifasaia (Black and White Swift) 8
Sabera fuliginosa fuliginosa (White-fringed Swift) 9
Sabera dobboe autoleon (Miskin's Swift) 10
Pelopidas lyelli lyelli (Lyell's Swift) 11
Family PAPILIONIDAE:
Graphium maeleayanus wilsoni (Macleay's Swallowtail) 12
Graphium sarpedon ohoredon (Blue Triangle) 13
Graphium eurypylus lyaaon (Pale Green Triangle) 14
Graphium agamermon ligatus (Green Spotted Triangle) 15
Papilio aegeus aegeus (Orchard Swallowtail) 16
Papilio ambrax egipius (Ambrax Butterfly) 17
Papilio demoleus sthenelus (Chequered Swallowtail) 18
Papilio ulysses Joesa (Ulysses Butterfly) 19
Cressida oressidxx oressida (Big Greasy) 20
Paehlioptera polydorus queenslandieos (Red-bodied Swallowtail) 21
Omithoptera priamus euphorion (Cairns Birdwing) 22
Family PIERIDAE:
Catopsilia pyranthe erokera (Common Migrant) 23
Catopsilia pomona pomona (Lemon Migrant) 24
Eurema heaabe phoebus (Common Grass Yellow) 25
Eurema herla (Macleay's Grass Yellow) 26
Elodina parthia (Chalk White) 27
Elodina egnatia angulipennis (Common Pearl White) 28
Elodina perdita perdita (Northern Pearl White) 29
Delias argenthona argenthona (Northern Jezabel) 30
Delias mysis mysis (Union Jack) 31
Delias ennia nigidius (Nigidius Jezabel) 32
Delias nysa nysa (Nysa Jezabel) 33
Delias nigrina (Common Jezabel) 34
Cepora perimale scyllara (Australian Gull) 35
Appias paulina ega (Common Albatross) 36
Appias melania (Grey Albatross) 37
October, 1972.
20.
The Victorian Entomologist'
NAME Code No.
Family NYMPHALIDAE:
Danaus chrysippus petilia (Lesser Wanderer) 38
Danaus affinis affinis (Black and White Tiger) 39
Danaus hamata hamata (Blue Tiger) 40
Euploea eichhomi (Eichhorn's Crow) 41
Euploea cove corinna (Common Australia Crow) 42
Euploea Sylvester Sylvester (Two-brand Crow) 43
Euploea tulliolus tulliolus (Eastern Brown Crow) 44
Tellervo zoilus zoilus (Cairns Hamadryad) 45
Myaalesis sirius sirius (Cedar Bushbrown) 46
Mycalesis terminus terminus (Orange Bushbrown) 47
Myaalesis perseus perseus (Dingy Bushbrown) 48
Melanitis leda bankia (Evening Brown) 49
Ipthima arctous aratous (Dingy Ring) 50
Hypocysta irius (Northern Ringlet) 51
Hypoaysta pseudirius (Dingy Ringlet) 52
Hypocysta adiante adiante (Orange Ringlet) 53
Neptis shepherdi shepherrdi (Common Aeroplane) 54
Neptis praslini staudingereana (Black and White Aeroplane) 55
Neptis oonsimilis pedia (Orange Aeroplane) 56
Mynes geoffroyi guerini (White Nymph) 57
Hypolinmas alimena lamina (Blue-banded Eggfly) 58
Hypolirtmas bolima nerina (Common Eggfly) 59
Hypolinmas misippus (Danaid Eggfly) 60
Toma sabina parva (Australian Lurcher) 61
Precis hedonia zelima (Brown Soldier) 62
Precis villida calybe (Meadow Argus) 63
Precis orithya albicinta (Blue Argus) 64
Cethosia ahrysippe chrysippe (Red Lacewing) 65
yindula arsinoe ada (Cruiser) 66
Vagrans egista propinqua (Australian Vagrant) 67
Cupha prosope prosope (Australian Rustic) 68
Acraea andromacha andromacha (Glasswing) 69
Family LYCAENIDAE:
Liphyra brassolis major (Moth butterfly) 70
Rapala varuna simsoni (Indigo Flash) 71
Hypolycaena phorbas phorbas (Common Tit) 72
Jalmenus evagoras eubulus (Pale Imperial Blue) 73
Jalmenus eichhomi (Northern Imperial Blue) 74
Narathura araxes eupolis (Dull Oakblue) 75
Narathura madytus madytus (Bright Oakblue) 76
Narathura micale amphis (Common Oakblue) 77
October, 1972.
21.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
NAME Code No.
Ogyris zosine typhon (Purple Azure) 78
Ogyris oroetes (Silky Azure) 79
Ogyris hewitsoni hewitsoni (Satin Azure) 8o
Thysonotis danis seraphis (Large Green-banded Blue) 81
Thysonotis hymetus taletun (Small Green-banded Blue) 82
Thysonotis oyanea arinia (Tailed Green-banded Blue) 83
Hypochrysops apelles apelles (Copper Jewel) 84
Hypochrysops narcissus narcissus (Narcissus Jewel) 85
Pseudodipsas digglesii (Diggies' Blue) 86
Pseudodipsas cephenes (Cephenes Blue) 87
Prosotas dubiosa dubiosa (Small Purple Lineblue) 88
Nacaduba kurava parma (White Lineblue) 89
Catopyrops florinda estrella (Speckled Lineblue) 90
Jamides phaseli (Dark Cerulean) 91
Syntaracus plinius pseudocassius (Zebra Blue) 92
Theclinesthes scintillata (Glistening Blue) 93
Lampidea boeticus (Pea Blue) 94
Catoahrysops panormus platissa (Forget-me-not) 95
Euchrysops cnejus cnidus (Cupid) 96
Everes lactumus australis (Tailed Cupid) 97
Zizeeria alsulus alsulus (Black-spotted Grass-blue) 98
Chilades trochilus putli (Grass Jewel) 99
Candalides erinus erinus (Small Dusky Blue) 100
Candalides absimilis (Absimilus Blue) 101
Candalides helenita (Helenita Blue) 102
Lycaenopsis tenella (Australian Hedge Blue) 103
October, 1972
22.
The Victorian Entomologist
LIST OF LOCALITIES AND CODE NUMBERS TO THE DIFFERENT SPECIES
LOCALITY CODE NO.
Kmgaroy
6
33
3
Dalby
23
29
Gympie
39
79
Maryborough
13
14
16
53
62
64
93
101
Rockhampton
7
11
18
59
69
71
Yeppoon
23
24
25
75
76
78
Emmett Creek
30
47
53
Townsville
60
Bowen
24
31
40
Bramston Beach
15
19
65
Mission Beach
2
3
8
31
32
40
70
82
83
Cairns
1
3
5
54
55
56
Kuranda
4
9
12
49
52
56
Yule Point
25
76
84
Ellis Beach
28
42
51
Daintree Crossing
30
31
32
Spring Creek
50
62
64
Cooktown
4
25
28
82
84
85
48 69 79
18
24
31
34
38
40
42
48
49
68
71
73
80
82
88
89
91
92
24
25
26
40
44
48
49
50
53
82
88
90
95
99
101
27
43
44
48
49
53
58
60
71
80
84
86
89
90
91
95
96
101
64
60
64
69
84
90
95
67
94
10
13
15
19
20
21
22
24
30
44
46
47
54
55
60
62
65
68
87
90
91
94
95
6
13
17
19
31
32
39
45
47
57
58
59
64
67
68
76
94
102
15
19
30
31
32
36
37
45
47
66
68
81
87
89
94
103
85
95
100
53
59
61
72
91
97
100
46
47
48
68
31
41
56
59
62
63
64
68
74
97
101
October, 1972
23.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
ANNAN RIVER AREA
*
VICTORIAN
ENTOMOLOGIST
&LWSS&&
The Journal of
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY OF VICTORIA
Vol. 2;No. 6
December 1972
Price 20o
Registered for posting as a periodical - Category B
THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY VICTORIA
OBJECTS
(a) To stimulate the scientific study and discussion
of entomology in all its aspects.
(b) To gather, preserve and disseminate knowledge of
Australian species of insects.
(c) To compile a list of known species of Victorian
insects.
(d) To bring together in a social and scientific
atmosphere all persons interested in entomology.
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Payable in advance and due at the
Ordinary members
Country or Associate members
Junior members
Student members
annual general meeting.
$ 3 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
■ $ 1 . 00 .
$ 1 . 00 .
Cheques or money orders for remittance of subscriptions
or donations should be made payable to "The Entomological
Society of Victoria" and be addressed to the Hon.Treasurer.
MEMBERSHIP
Open to all persons interested in entomology. Applications
or enquiries re membership should be addressed to the Hon.
Secretary.
MEETINGS
The Society's meetings are held in the Conference Room at
the National Museum (see inset). Meetings start at 8 p.m.
sharp on the second last Friday of alternate months com¬
mencing with the annual general meeting in February.
Visitors are always welcome.
December, 1972.
'The Victorian Entomologist*
CONTENTS
Office Bearers and Diary 1
Editorial 2
Reports and Notices 3
Excursion to Cape Liptrap - Report 6
The 1972 Winter Collecting Trip to North Queensland: J,C. Le Souef. 8
The Suggan Buggan Area: Susan Beattie ^
What Butterfly WAS That? - Review 21
Index to Volume 2 24
The statements and opinions expressed in this Journal are the views of the
respective authors, and not necessarily those of the Society.
No article in this Journal may be reproduced without prior permission of
the author(s).
i
December, 1972. 1. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President: Mr. C. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill, 3128.
Deputizing Pres.; Mr. J. C , LeSouef, Godfrey St., Blairgowrie. Vic. 3942.
(059.888413).
Vice-President: Mr. A. Morton, 15 Eilleen Street, Armadale. 3143.
Hon. Secretary: Miss S. Beattie, 2 Clyde St., Glen Iris. 3146. (50 5263).
Hon. Editor: Mr. A. Bishop, 5 Warnes Road, Mitcham. 3132. (874 6119).
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. R. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. 3129.
Librarian: Mr, J. Hutchinson, 24 Junction Rd, Blackburn Nth. 3130.
Immediate Past-President: Mr. P. Kelly.
Diary of Coming Events
General Meeting Members night
December 15, 1972 (Third Friday of the month)
THIS IS THE FINAL MEETING AT THE CONFERENCE ROOM, MUSEUM.
December 26 - January 1. Excursion to Suggan Buggan CANCELLED DUE TO
EXTREME FIRE DANGER.
1973 GENERAL MEETINGS. CLUNIES ROSS HOUSE, NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTRE,
191 Royal Pde., Parkville. 3052.
16th February, 1973 .
27th April, 1973.
22nd June, 1973.
24th August, 1973.
19th October, 1973.
14th December, 1973.
Time: 8-11 p.m.
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December, 1972.
2.
The Victorian Entomologist'
EDITORIAL
It? is rather instructive to compare the early issues of "Wings and
Stings" with the last few issues of "The Victorian Entomologist". The
latter magazine is much neater and better in appearance, but "Wings and
Stings" had a much greater number of articles on a much wider range of
subjects. Yet the Society has now far more members than it had then.
What has happened to prevent people from writing articles?
Certainly, ijt cannot be said that most of what can be written has
been written already. Every entomologist has some information that is
known only to him. Published information on distribution of and local¬
ities for insects is still rather small in volume. Many life histories
have still to be documented. Foodplants or food sources of many insects
are unknown. And the field of behavioural study is virtually untouched
for most of our insects. There is no shortage of material for articles.
It has been suggested that would-be authors are being deterred by
the "Instructions to Authors" in Volume 2 Number 2. If this is so, then '
it is to be regretted, for these instructions were published mainly for
people wishing to write scientific papers, the aim being to suggest a
useful and uniform layout for such articles. It was not intended, and
is not desirable, that these instructions be followed rigidly for
articles of a less formal type. Nor was it intended that authors should
stop writing articles of the type that made "Wings and Stings" so
interesting and valuable. It would be most unfortunate, too, if junior
members were afraid to write because they thought that they could not
follow the instructions or that their articles were not good enough.
Junior articles of all kinds are particularly welcome. It should also
be added that articles need not be typed, but if not typed they should
be absolutely legible and double-spaced.
The journal is our main means of communication with other entomol¬
ogists, and it is by the journal that we are judged. Nothing could
reflect worse on the Society than a complete lack of articles. Any
well-written article containing original information is worthy of a place.
I hope we can look forward to many more articles of all kinds.
On behalf oT the Publications Committee, and indeed all members of
the Society, I wish to thank Sue Beattie for all the work she has done to
improve the newsletter-journal while she has been Secretary; its present
form and quality are due in very great measure to her efforts, for which
we are extremely grateful.
The Editor wishes everyone a Happy Christmas and a profitable
collecting season.
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December, 1972.
3.
'The Victorian Entomologist
REPORTS AND NOTICES
Compiled by Miss S. Beattie
GENERAL MEETING (Friday, October 20, 1972)
The Deputy President, Mr, J.C. Le Souef chaired the meeting, which was
attended by 38 members and friends.
Apologies were received from Messrs. N. Quick, A. Morton, R. Besserdin
and D. Holmes and Misses H. Malcolm and E. Matherson. Nine new members were
proposed and accepted unanimously. The confirmation of the Minutes was
delayed until the December meeting.
CORRESPONDENCE was received as follows:
1. T.I.E.G. Vol. 7 No. 1, Spring 1972.
2. Journal of the Australian Entomological Society Vol. 11 No. 3 Sept.1972.
3. Ian Clunies-Ross Memorial Foundation, confirming their approval of the
Society's application to use their building for meetings in 1973.
4. Thomas Meacham,_301 W. Stocke, Glendale, Calif., U.S.A. 91202, who is
interested in buying, selling and exchanging butterflies.
5. S. Hayama, 12 Midari machi, Furana City, Hokkaido, Japan, who wishes
to contact other members interested in butterflies.
6. Circulars on the Entomol. Soc. of Aust. (N.S.W.) Nos. 224-228.
7. Report on 14th International Congress of Entom.
NEW MEMBERS to be elected at the December meeting:
1. Mr. Michael Schwarz, "The Bungalow", Devonshire Lane, Mt.Macedon.3441.
- Hymenoptera
2. Mr. Bob Mullany, 296 St.Kilda St., Brighton, Vic. 3186 - General
entomology.
3. Mr. Michael Smith, 2 Gillard St., Burwood, Vic. 3125. — CoZeoptsva.
THE SPEAKER
Speaker for the evening was Miss Sue Beattie. In view of the excursion to
be held to the Suggan Buggan area in December, Miss Beattie based her talk
on the many fascinating aspects of this area in its geology,fauna, flora,
and history.. A synopsis of this talk and relevant details of the excursion
appear in this Journal.
DEPUTY PRESIDENT
Mr. J.C. Le Souef explained that he had been elected Acting-president
because the President was in the U.K, and would not be returning until the
end of the year.
December, 1972.
4.
The Victorian Entomologist
GENERAL BUSINESS
1. Treasurer's Report:
The Treasurer reported a financial standing of $40.34 with a total
membership of 69 financial members.
2. Editor's Report:
The Editor apologized for the delay of the October issue of the journal
3. Excursion Report:
Six members attended the excursion to Waratah Bay (Sept.28 - Oct.l.).
A report appears later in this issue.
INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF ENTOMOLOGY
Mr. A. Neboiss reported that a total of 1300 people attended the Congress
from 64 countries, and 750 papers were read. The next Congress, in four
years' time, will be held in Washington, U.S.A.
EXHIBITS
Mr. J. Hutchinson: Coleoptera and Odonata from Walkerville Vic., Daly
River N.T., and Canberra A.C.T.
MISCELLANEOUS
Mr. P. Kelly reported excellent collecting in the Brisbane Ranges, with the
Leptospermum in full bloom.
As the December meeting will be the final meeting for the year, could
members please bring a plate for supper; tea and coffee will be available.
MATTERS DISCUSSED AT THE COMMITTEE MEETING
1. Retirement of Miss S. Beattie as Secretary.
2. Meeting dates and speakers for 1973.
3. Name tags to be worn at General Meetings.
4. Whether both common and scientific names should be included in Journal
- to be discussed at next General Meeting.
5. Definition of Country and Junior members -
Country - 25 miles from G.P.O. Melbourne.
Junior - under 18.
6 . Increasing cost of Journal to 30c. plus postage to those who want
more than one copy of the Journal.
7. Increasing subscriptions in 1973 to meet costs of buying an offset
machine for the Society in order to save costs and to centralize the
work of the Journal. To be discussed at the next meeting.
December, 1972.
5.
’The Victorian Entomologist
MATTERS DISCUSSED AT THE PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING (26.xi.72.)
1. The possibility of having a bimonthly newsletter and a yearly or more
frequent journal was discussed,
2. The advantages and disadvantages of offset and roneo printing were
discussed in the light of the fact that it will probably be necessary
for the Society to buy a printing machine shortly.
3. It was decided that the author's address should appear as a footnote
to each article.
4. It was decided that, when the name of an insect is given in an article,
the scientific name should be used throughout, followed by the common
name (if one exists) on the first appearance. For junior articles,
however, it was decided that it would be permissible to use the common
name throughout.
5. It was decided that in articles by junior members, the author's age
should be given if under 14, or, if the author is 14 or over, his name
should be followed by the words "junior member", unless the article
was of sufficiently high quality to appear as an ordinary article.
6. It was decided that, except in special circumstances, republication
of articles from other journals should be avoided.
If any member disagrees with or wishes to discuss any of the decisions
above, he is welcome to bring the matter up at the next general meeting.
December, 1972.
6.
The Victorian Entomologist
EXCURSION TO CAPE LIPTRAP 28th TO 30th OCTOBER 1972
As there does not seem to have been much insect work done in this area
in recent years, it was suggested as a venue for an early Spring excursion.
This Show Day weekend trip was not largely attended. Jim Hutchinson
went down on Thursday, returning on Friday, meeting Bob Condron on the road.
Mary and I joined Bob and Gwen Condron and Mark Connor on Saturday morning,
returning home in the afternoon. Gordon Burns also made the journey, but
did not meet other members.
There is a vast difference in the landscape from our last visit in
1954. The advent of trace elements had changed the undulating low tea
tree scrub with patches of gums to lush pastures well stocked with sheep
and cattle. There was only one uncleared area of scrub not far from the
lighthouse turn-off.
Along the roadside towards Walkerville there were a few Gahnia (sword-
grass) plants still left with pre-pupal larvae and pupae of the skippers,
Hesperilla ohry sotrioha oyolospila and several Hesperilla donnysa patmos.
There were more on the slopes above the township. On this occasion we did
not find any Mesodina halyzia halyzia on the widespread Patersonia, a
number of which taken on the earlier visit.
In the dense Melaleuca scrub behind the camping sites I found a patch
of Gahnia (probably G. olarkei) . Here were the characteristic eats of the
skipper, Hesperilla piota, while there were a number of Tisiphone abeona
albifasoia (Swordgrass Brown) larvae of various sizes as well. Several
large larvae of the former were taken to continue their feeding on pot
plants at home.
The finding of Hesperilla piota so far from the normal east Gippsland
habitat was, naturally, of great interest. However we found later that
David Crosby had recorded a female being taken on the wing by John Landy
on Wilson's Promontory, I think in 1966. The Walkerville locality at
least brings the distribution a little further west.
On the foreshore Blady Grass there were skipper eats of what was
probably Suniana lasoivia (Dingy Dart), but no larvae were found.
Although there was much Black Teatree in flower, it was a bit cold
and a bit early for Buprestids and other flower frequenting beetles.
(However the foliage of the smaller Eucalypts yielded a number of
Chrysomelids and Weevils). Insect life generally was by no means
abundant).
Bob Condron took only one Anthela repleta at his gas light on the
Friday evening. '
December, 1972.
7.
'The Victorian Entomologist
LIST OF BUTTERFLIES,
Species.
EesperiZla
donnysa
Eesperilla pieta
EesperiZZa
ohnysotriaha
Tisiphone abeona
Candalides aeastus
Vanessa itea
Vanessa kershawi
LARVAE OR PUPAE TAKEN OR OBSERVED
Common Name. Notes.
Donnysa Skipper
Painted Skipper
Chrysotricha
Skipper
Swordgrass Brown
Large larvae taken on Gahnia
sp. above Walkerville.
Large larvae taken on Gahnia
sp. at Walkerville.
Some pupae and a number of
large larvae on Gahnia sp.
at Walkerville. Smaller
larvae on G . tvifida at
Kilkunda.
A number of larvae on Gahnia
sp. at Walkerville.
Blotched Blue
Observed at Kilkunda.
Admiral
Odd specimens seen.
Painted Lady
A few specimens about.
J.C. Le Souef.
December, 1972.
8.
The Victorian Entomologist
THE 1972 WINTER COLLECTING TRIP TO NORTH QUEENSLAND
Including notes on some Lepidopterous larvae
by J.C. LeSouef*
Here are a few notes on our visit to North Queensland during this last
winter when Mary and I drove again as far as Cooktown.
It had been our intention on this occasion to spend most of our time
at Yeppoon, but we gladly accepted an invitation to spend a couple of weeks
with Dr. Norman B. and Mrs. Tindale and Mr. and Mrs. Noel McFarland at
Tinaroo Dam on the Atherton Tableland. We had been trying to arrange such
a joint trip for a number of years. For several months they had been
studying in cabins at the local caravan park, Tinnie working on his book
on the aboriginal tribes, the Nigritoes, which used to inhibit this region
and Noel on his book on Geometridae.
On the way north we took a Hesperilla donnysa larva on a Gahnia i*n
the Pilliga Scrub. We left this with Andrew Atkins, of Rockhampton, to
breed out while we went on because of the difficulty of carrying larvae
for long periods on the road. Another was taken on the return trip which
was unfortunately parasitised.
An Ogyvis bavnavdi pupa was taken at Dubbo and an Ogyvis oroetes larva
was taken beyond Toowoomba. The larva was green in this instance which
created some interest as we had not met with a green one before. However
Andrew located a reference in Burns to the colour variations.
Some Tinaroo life histories and Mercury Vapour Lamp results
North from Cardwell we met the full effect of the abnormally long wet
season with constant drizzling rain all day and quite low temperatures.
The comfort of the modern cabins in Tinaroo Dam was greatly appreciated
in these weather conditions, when we arrived. For the first ten days we
found it difficult to realise that we were actually in Queensland. Even
in the odd brief sunny periods, only very common species of butterflies
and moths were on the wing.
As there was little flying, we spent our time largely hunting for
larvae and pupae. Having been shown the small sapling which provided
the eggs and larvae of the new species of Lycaenid Noel had found, many
hours were spent looking for further specimens without success. However
outside the cabins on a fig we found a number of Philivis innotata
evinautis (Common Moonbeam), several of which were later reared. Larvae
and pupae of Lampides boetiaus (Pea Blue), and Catoahrysops panormus
* Godfrey St., Blairgowrie, Vic., 3942.
December, 1972. 9. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
platissa (Forget-me-not) were found in the pods of Crotalaria . Hesperiid and
satyrid larvae were located on Blady Grass.
Eventually the sun appeared and we sallied forth with out nets for the
nearby rain forest with keen anticipation. But the expected new emergence
after the wet spell did not eventuate. Apart from an odd Delias nigrina
(Common Jezebel) and a fly or two, there was nothing on the wing at all.
Even Tinnie was surprised at the complete lack of insect life on the patches
of Lantana which had provided him with so much collecting earlier.
Although there were so few insects about in the day time, the M.V.
lights at night drew a great collection from the nearby sclerophyll forest.
Predominant were Sphingidae and Noctuidae , several species of the former
and many of the latter. Bats in the air and the cursed cane toads on the
ground took their toll at night while those left on the screen and wall
were finished off by the early birds in the morning.
Interesting larvae at Cooktown
After a fortnight at Tinaroo Dam, we drove to Cooktown, calling at
our collecting spot near the Lion's Den, on the way. But here, too, there
was nothing much about. After a late lunch we continued on to Cooktown,
setting up camp in our usual spot under the big mango tree at the back of
the Sovereign Hotel.
As there was nothing of interest in the rain forest, we spent our
time mainly browsing round in the open country and the mangroves. Ray and
Nola Manskie had told us of Hypochrysops narcissus (Narcissus Jewel) flying
in numbers on the mangroves bordering the northern bank of the Annan River.
However we took a track we had found on an earlier visit on the southern
bank instead in search of them. He we drove across salt flats and through
open forest for a mile or two. On a small Terminalia with autumn-tinted
leaves we found Lycaenid larvae, feeding on the underside of the leaves.
They were attended by small ants. We were puzzled as to their identity
but thought that they were probably H. narcissus , As these are recorded
as feeding on mistletoe on Tristania hiding in the curled dead end of the
leaf, there was some doubt. Again empty pupal cases were found in the
ants' nest in the hollow trunk. These larvae were later referred to
Andrew Atkins at Rockhampton who also identified them as H . narcissus .
He was able to breed them out and confirm their identification.
Wandering out on the salt flats I saw much evidence of an earlier
emergence of Hypochrysops apelles (Copper Jewel). On the border of those
mangroves affected by the high tide I came across a colony of #. apelles
flying. Among them I spotted a H. narcissus , the first I'd seen on the
wing. Mary quickly joined me and we soon found them to be in quite large
numbers. There were probably more than 200 of each species in an area
of about 100 metres by 20.
December, 1972.
10.
'The Victorian Entomologist
Like H. apelles , they settle in the foliage and have to be flushed
usually to net. There was a predominance of H % narcissus in one half of
the strip of mangroves and H, apelles in the other with both species
playing round two slightly higher trees. Many of the mangroves were in
flower attracting Hypolycaena phorbas (Common Tit) and Catochrysops panormus
(Forget-me-not), as well.
Among the many H. apelles larvae in the curled brown leaves, I took
several which appeared to be the same as those taken on the Terminalia .
These too were later bred out by Andrew Atkins as H % narcissus , answering
the puzzle as to why there should be so many of the butterflies about the
mangroves without a mistletoe in sight. It is probably that the larvae
pupate in ants' nests in the hollow branches of the larger mangroves, as
only E % apelles pupae were found in the curled leaves.
A few days in Cairns
A week in Cairns did not provide much of interest. There were a few
things on the wing at the Cascades and abundant evidence of earlier
visitations of collectors bashing tracks into the lantana at the most
suitable collecting spots! Once more the Nymphalid, Vagrans egista
(Australian Vagrant), appeared before me when I was off balance on a rock,
flying before I could apply the net, eluding me for yet another year.
Unfortunately both Stan Stirling and Ted Harris were away on the
only day available to visit Kuranda. We were interested to see the
rapid growth of the many plants Stan had planted about his property
to attract insects. An hour was spent with George Brooks.
We spent a day with the Tindales on the magnificent Cook Highway,
going to Yule Point where Ray and Nola Manskie had done so well. But
it was a bit late and apart from H . phorbas, there was nothing of interest.
This is a fascinating drive anyway!
Hypochrysops digglesi at Yeppoon
A few days were spent at Yeppoon, the most interesting area we have
visited anywhere apart from Cooktown. There was little opportunity to
use the net but it was a treat to potter about with Andrew Atkins and
Archie May looking for things and chatting. Although there were none of
the many H. digglesi (Diggles' Blue), Ray and Nola had seen flying, we
did find some pupae for the first time. We had found larvae at both
Cooktown and Yeppoon on earlier trips, but never the pupae. Struck
by this lack of pupae, Andrew looked further on the trees were the
larvae were found. The question was soon answered when he located pupae
in hollow branches and under bark. We found several as much as three
metres away up a tree adjoining the food plant. I also took two larvae
in the dead curled end of a much larger leafed mistletoe on Grassy Hill,
Cooktown.
December, 1972.
11.
’The Victorian Entomologist'
It seems doubtful whether any other young amateur lepidopterist has so
meticulously recorded the fauna of his district in such a short time as has
Andrew Atkins at Rockhampton. Seeing a sandstone Grampians-'like range from
the air some 70 km. from Rockhampton one day in the course of his duties
with the ABC, he determined to investigate it further. After six months'
search, he found a newly constructed forestry road which would take him on
to the 1000 m. plateau.
A weekend at Expedition Range »
So a highlight of the trip was a weekend visit with Andrew to his new
collecting area on the Blackdown Plateau of the Expedition Range. Here we
were introduced to a most unlikely looking patch of country about 100 m long
and 30 m wide along the edge of the escarpment. Of the 80 species of
butterflies taken in the vicinity, 60 were taken in this small strip. We
now look forward to reading the results of his taxonomic work on them and
the listing of the various species he has taken there. It was indeed, a
most interesting weekend. On the way, we had the pleasure of a day with
Ernest Adams, the well known coleopterist at Edungalba.
The M.V. light was not a great success on this trip as there was a
moon on many of the available collecting nights. Several nice geometrids
were taken at Cooktown one night while there was a mixed flight of insects
at the Pine Caravan Park just north of Proserpine on another occasion. The
only busy night was at the Inghan Caravan park. Here amid sugar cane and
pastures, a surprising variety of insects came to the light. They
represented a number of families from several large beetles and moths to
the tiniest of mobile specks.
A total of 900 specimens was taken on the trip made up largely of
small species which had come to the light.
December, 1972.
12.
’The Victorian Entomologist'
LARVAE AND PUPAE FOUND
Species
Common Name
Date
Locality
Notes
Hesperilla
donnysa iaaria
Donnysa Skipper
7.6.72.
Pilliga Scrub
Only one larvae in
an hour's search.
Bred out by Andrew
Atkins, 13.7.72.
Ogyris barnardi
Barnard's Azure
6.6.72.
Dubbo
3 pupae, 2 larvae
Emerged 3 females
27.6.72, 21.6.72,
2.7.72.
Ogyris oroetes
Silky Azure
8.6.72.
Toowoomba
1 larva, green,
barkj emerged
2.7.72. fe.
Philiris
innotata
evinoulis
Com. Moonbeam
21.6.72.
Tinaroo Dam
10 larvae on
figs 2 emerged
12, 15.7.
Lampides
boetious
Pea Blue
21.6.72.
Tinaroo Dam
Pupa in Crotalaria
pod.Emerged 25.6.
Catoohrysops
panomrus
platissa
Forget-me-not
21.6.72.
Tinaroo Dam
2 larvae, emerged
20.6.
Satyrid larvae
21.6.72.
Tinaroo Dam
Unable to keep
them going.
Skipper larvae
21.6.72.
Tinaroo Dam
Unable to keep
them going.
Geometrid
Heart
16.7.72.
Tinaroo Dam
Used by Noel Mc¬
Farland for photo.
His without mark.
Hypoahrysops
narcissus
Narcissus Jewel
28.6.72.
Annan River
Cooktown
Taken first on
Terminalia , later
mangrove.
Hypoahrysops
apelles
Copper Jewel
29.6.72.
Archer Point
Cooktown
Larvae and pupae
common on mangrove.
7 m Terminalia
almost defoliated
Larvae and pupae
under the big leaves
curled round branches
Hypoahrysops
apelles
Copper Jewel
2.7.72.
Annan River
Cooktown
In numbers in curled
or joined mangrove
leaves.
December, 1972.
13.
'The Victorian
Entomologist'
Larvae and Pupae
Found (cont.)
Species
Common Name
Date
Locality
Notes
Hypoehrysops
digglesi
Diggles' Blue
30.6.72.
Grassy Hill
Cooktown
2 larvae in dead
curled end of leaf
em. 6.8.72.
Hypoehrysops
digglesi
Diggles' Blue
30.6.72.
Yeppoon
15 pupae under
bark. 2 em.
24.7, 1 4.8.72.
Geometrid sp.
4.7.72.
Annan River
Cooktown
Emerged 18.7.72.
December, 1972.
14.
The Victorian Entomologist
THE SUGGAN BUGGAN AREA
by Susan Beattie.
2 Clyde St, Glen Iris. 3146.
This article is a synopsis of the talk given by the author at the
October meeting to provide information for the excursion to this area on
December 26, 1972.
Suggan Buggan
Suggan Buggan is a Scottish name meaning thick mat or cover, presumably
referring to the thick cover of native grasses which existed in the area
before the advent of sheep, cattle or rabbits.
In 1923 the discovery of the Monaro Plains with their broad valleys
provided a natural pass through which the early settlers travelled to take
up new runs. Cattle were first pastured in the Suggan Buggan Velley in
1943.
The Suggan Buggan River valley is in a rain shadow area and receives
°ne of the lowest rainfalls in East Gippsland - less than 20" per annum.
Surrounding hills catch most of the rain and the valleys in between are
left comparatively dry. For this reason dry country plants, such as the
Murray Pine ( Callitvis columellaris) , grow there. Most stands are around
40-80 years old and are remnants of a mature grassy woodland. These pines
regenerate after fire and are very slow growers. Rabbit plagues nibbled
the new shoots and not until 1950, when the rabbit numbers were reduced by
myxomatosis, did some new trees begin to re-establish. Several fire-scarred
veterans, 66 feet high and up to 250 years old, are still standing - the
oldest pine known in the area had the road cut around it to leave it standing.
The pines grow in pure stands on the northwest slopes and are mixed with
Eucalyptus albens (White Box) on the east and southwest slopes. On the
south and southeast slopes pure stands of E. albens exist. The pine
buprestid Stigmodeva suturalis is known to infest the Murray Pine.
Little River Falls and Gorge
Both the Little and Suggan Buggan rivers flow into the Snowy River.
Where these rivers encounter masses of rhyodacite in their courses, they
have carved a series of remarkable gorges.
The 100 foot (30-40 m) drop of the Little River Falls is the head of
the Little River Gorge, which has carved its course for some 8J miles (13 km)
through this rock, forming spectacular sheet cliff faces. One can climb
beneath the falls to find several unusual ferns growing in the crevices of
the dripping rock face. One of these is Cystoptevis fragilis (Brittle
December, 1972.
15. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
Bladder Fern), one of Victoria's rarest ferns, found for the second time in
Victoria at this locality.
Along the top of the gorge is evidence of Lyrebird display mounds.
•' roadie vencillata (Brush Black Wallaby)
This animal was once extremely abundant in the rugged mountain tracts
of northeastern Victoria. Only 18" (0.5 m) high, it is generally bluish-
grey in colour, blending in remarkably well with the surrounding rock. The
soles of its feet are like thick rubber pads, enabling it to jump about the
steep smooth ledges and rockfaces. Within a few years of the appearance
of the fox this animal became so rare that by 1915 it was almost extinct.
Keith Rogers, a noted naturalist who has a property in the area,
rediscovered the wallaby along the boundary of his property about 1937.
Since that time, the Victorian Fisheries and Wildlife Department had made
a permanent wildlife reserve embracing some 15 miles of the Rocky Range
overlooking the Suggan Buggan Valley, incorporating some of the more
accessible colonies.
Scribbly Gums.
There are two species of eucalypt on the Wulgulmerang Plateau (3000
feet (900 m) above sea level) that appear very similar. Eucalyptus
vubida (Candlebark) grows with E. pauciflova (Snow Gum or White Sallee)
and the one obvious difference between these two species is the scribble
markings, which appear on the bark of the Snow Gum but not on the Candle-
bark, made by insect larvae.
Blackboy Trees - Hanging Rock
Overlooking a gorge is Hanging Rock where several Blackboy trees grow,
protruding out over the sheer cliffs. For centuries these trees have been
a favourite perching spot for Wedge-tailed Eagles (Aquila audax ) as they
scan the gorge for prey, and over the years the trees have become distorted
and worn by the eagles.
Ant Mound - Saw Pit Creek
Very near the campsite at Suggan Buggan is a huge mound of the meat
ant Iridomyrmex detectus. Observed over the last ten years, this structure
had changed very little in shape. It is estimated to contain some 40 tons
of material and is possible centuries old. This meat ant is a scavenger,
but it also hunts the sugary "manna" that is made by certain scales insects
or found exuding from the twigs and foliage of some eucalypts. When
disturbed these ants swarm out from their tunnels, and although they will
not sting, bite quite savagely.
December, 1972.
References
16.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
'Naturalists Diary' N.A, Wakefield.
Royal Soc. of Vic. Proceedings 'East Gippsland Symposium' Vol. 82.
Pt. 1. ,
Jan.
1969.
Vic. Nat. Vol
. 77
No. 1
May 60.
Vol
. 77
No. 2
June 60.
Vol
. 77
No. 11
March 61.
Vol
. 82
No. 1
May 65.
Vol
. 87
No. 6
June 70.
PLEASE NOTE: THE TRIP TO SUGGAN
BUGGAN 26.12.72 HAS BEEN CANCELLED
THE EXTREME FIRE RISK AT PRESENT.
Other details for campers:
Suggan Buggan is approximately 280 miles from Melbourne. The roads
are generally sealed except for the last 40 miles, which is a winding dirt
mountain road.
Petrol : Petrol can be obtained only at Wulgulmerang. It is advisable to
fill the car at this point and carry extra petrol in the car.
Food: As there is no store at Suggan Buggan, food should be taken to
last through the camping period.
Water: There is plenty of water available in the Suggan Buggan River but
it is advisable to carry a water bottle on walking trips.
Clothing : Good walking shoes for rough rocky terrain and a sun hat are
essential.
Other Gear : Bring own tent and sleeping gear. Fishing is allowed in the
river.
NO OPEN FIRES ARE ALLOWED.
December, 1972.
17.
’The Victorian Entomologist
APPENDIX: The Flora of Suggan Buggan.
Callitris aolumellaris
Eucalyptus albens
E. macrovrhyncha
E. viminalis
E. goniocalyx
Murray Pine
White Box
Red Stringybark
Manna Gum
Long Leaf Box
Casuavina striots
Acacia mollissima
A. dealbata
A, pycnantha
A. dovatoxylon
A, imp lexa
A. falciformis
A. melanoxylon
Drooping She-'oak
Black Wattle
Silver Wattle
Golden Wattle
Spearwood
Lightwood
Sickle Wattle
Blackwood
Brachychiton populneus
Carraj ong
Exocarpos cupressifovmis
Cherry Ballart
Bursaria spinosa (var,incana)
Blackthorn
Tieghemopanax sambucifolius
Elderberry Panax
Solarium aviculare
Kangaroo Apple
Clematis glycinoides
C , aristata
Forest Clematis
Forest Clematis
C. microphylla (vav,leptophylla) Forest Clematis
December, 1972.
18.
'The Victorian Entomologist
Flowering Shrubs:
Eriostemon traohyphyllus
Blunt-leaf Waxflower
Phebalium lamprophyllum
Shining Phebalium
Correa reflexa
Red Correa
Olearia iodochroa
Violet Daisy Bush
Oxylobium elliptiovan
(var.angustifo lia)
Golden Shaggy Pea
Mirbelia oxyloboides
Mountain Mirbelia
Prostanthera rotundifolia
Round-leaf Mint-bush
Ealoragis raeemosa
var , Baverlenii
Shrubby Raspwort
Anthocercis albicans
Grey Ray-flower
Plagianthus pulahellus
Common Hemp-bush
Amyema miquelii
Amyema pendulum
Muellerina eucalyptoides
Stalked Mistletoe
Drooping Mistletoe
Common Mistletoe
Glossogyne tenuifolia
Blennodia alpestris
Mountain Cress
The Victorian Entomologist'
December, 1972.
Grasses:
Themeda australis
Poa australis (sip.aggregate)
Danthonia semi-annularis
Agropyron soabrum
Mierolaena stipoides
Echinopogon ovatus
Dichanthium seriaeum
D. affine
Paspalidium gracile
Agropyron peetinatum
Festuea duriusoula
Vulpia bromoides
Aira oaryophyllea
Koeleria phleoides
Some Ferns:
Cheilanthes tenuifolia
Asplerium flabellifolium
Notholaena distans
Pleurosorus rutifolius
Cyolophorus serpens
Dendrobium striolatum
Corysanthes diemeniea
Other introduced species:
Carduus pycnooephalus
Cirsium lanaeolatum
Hypoahaeris radiaata
Trifolium arvense
Verbasoum blattaria
Datura stramonium
Conium maoulatum
REFERENCE:
19.
Kangaroo Grass
Tussock Grass
Wallaby Grass
Common Wheat Grass
Weeping Grass
Hedgehog Grass
Beard Grass
Beard Grass
Graceful Panic Grass
Comb Wheat Grass
Hard Fescue
C Brome Fescue
Introduced ( Silvery Hair Grass
( Annual Cats-tail
Rock fern
Necklace Fern
Bristly Cloak Fern
Blanket Fern
Creeping Polyplody
Streaked Rock-Orchid
Purple Helmet Orchid
Shore Thistle
Spear Thistle
Flatweed/Cats Ear
Hare's Foot Clover
(Moth) Mullein
Thorn Apple
Hemlock
'The Flora of Suggan Buggan'
W. Hunter. Vic, Nat. Vol. 58. No. 41.
December, 1972.
20. f The Victorian Entomologist 1
*
*
o
December, 1972.
21.
'The Victorian Entomologist
WHAT BUTTERFLY WAS THAT? Review
In reviewing any new publication, the temptation to direct comparison
with earlier works is always present. Here, on the occasion of the rein¬
carnation of an old friend, such comparison is more than permissible, it
is invited.
Appearing as it does so soon after the publication of two other
major works, the lay reader, the budding entomologist, and perhaps even
more, the bookseller, will have some doubts as to its necessity and
worth. It is* and was intended to be, above all a manual. It does
not aspire to the geographic coverage and lavish illustrations of
Bernard D'Abrera's "Butterflies of the Australian Region". Nor in any
sense does it attain the charm and aesthetic appeal of Charles McCubbin's
"Australian Butterflies". One is, therefore, immediately tempted to
enquire just what it has that qualifies it as a 'must 1 '.
Primarily of course any manual must be handleable. It must there¬
fore be concise yet comprehensive and authoritative, and for efficient
use must be systematic, well-indexed and cross-referenced. "Butterflies
of Australia" does not fail in any of these respects, although location
of the irregularly-placed plates (e.g. "facing p. 12") might well have
been provided in the text for each species.
The several excellent sections dealing with structure and early
stages, biology, behaviour and physiology contain a wealth of both
fundamental and advanced information, presented in a manner which both
young and old, whether they be entomologically-inclined or merely
curious, must find fascinating, instructive and thought-stimulating.
With regard to the nomenclature employed, "Butterflies of Australia"
can only be regarded as a taxonomist's picnic, and my first reaction was
that this type of publication was no place in which to present such
numerous and sometimes major changes. Yet, in reality, a publication
which at some time or other will be studied or referred to by entomo¬
logists at all levels, and which is available to all, must be the logical
medium whereby beginner and senior entomologists are put on a sound,
up-to-date and equal footing in this important respect. Ideally,
perhaps, previously-employed taxa could have been stated as synonyms
in more 1 'cases (e.g. in the case of Freyeria troohylus which was formerly
included in the genus Chitades) , and brief explanations provided for
minor changes where the reason is not immediately apparent, as in the
case of the change from Toxidia peroni to T, peron.
Plant names do not appear to have received such meticulous attention
in any uniform fashion. It is difficult to accept Exocavpos (Gk .) in
place of Exoaarpus (Lat.) while Lysicma exooarpi (Lat.) remains. My
own personal reaction, and I must emphasise that it is my own, is also
December, 1972.
22.
'The Victorian Entomologist
to reject such spellings as Clerodendrum and Euodia as unnecessarily
pedantic alternatives for the long-accepted Clerodendron and Evodia . The
identification and taxonomy of plants will inevitably at times involve
personal opinions, and the implication (p. 453) that McCubbin is incorrect
in identifying the normal Victorian foodplant of Hypochrysops byzos heoalius
as Pomaderris apetata instead of P, aspera is an unfortunate example of
such, when we are referred to the former by most Victorian botanists.
From the brief description of habitat quoted, it appears that the food-
plant of NeoZuaia hobartensis may have been incorrectly identified, and
the spelling is unique. These however are trivial points in such a
fine publication, in which a notable feature is the virtual total elimi¬
nation of typographical errors, which proved a nightmare to both McCubbin
and D'Abrera at the mercy of oriental printers who insisted on ignoring
corrected galley proofs.
Again in the realm of personal opinion, it seems a little strange
these days to find all seven related subfamilies included as such.under
the Nymphalidae , and to re-unite Ogyris hewitsoni with 0. amaryllis.
These are, again, rather trivial points, and certainly will not delay
any entomologist in making identifications at the specific level.
Illustrations, as might be expected, are excellent, and two additional
colour plates have been added to include some species not formerly
illustrated. In the particular copy examined, several of the colour-
plates were rather over-printed, and consequently a little harsh and
unrealistic. The small maps, with their cryptic little dots, showing the
distribution of each species, are an excellent innovation, although it
was noted in one or two cases that the indicated distribution did not
entirely correspond with that stated in the text.
Under the heading 'Collecting and Study' we again find a wealth of
information ranging from the design and construction of gear and normal
collecting and rearing hints, to the preparation and mounting of
dissections, and frequent indications of avenues for future investigation
and research. This section is followed by an appendix of miscellaneous
late information and an excellent glossary. The final sections include
a list of all recorded foodplants - regrettably not distinguishing the
native species from introductions - a select bibliography and a clear
index without any obvious omissions, except plant names. It seems a
pity that the documentation of so many food plants has provided nothing
more than names - names of plants which, in so many places, are known to
few botanists. Had space permitted, a food plant and habitat description,
with even black and white illustrations would have been welcome. It is
to be hoped that some publisher may see fit to make good this largely
neglected field at an early date.
From all of which one may assume that about all "Butterflies of
Australia" has in common with "What Butterfly is That?" are reproductions
December, 1972.
23.
'The Victorian Entomologist
of the 1932 illustrations, the text being entirely re-written, and as up-to
date as today. It is a credit to the authors, who must be justifiably
proud of the publication. It will fit nicely into the glove-box or
rucksack. The one serious criticism remaining is the unjustifiably high
price, a penalty that must apparently be paid for keeping production all-
Australian. Save like mad and you should have sufficient in the kitty
by the time it is remaindered!
W.N.B. QUICK
"Butterflies of Australia", Common and Waterhouse, published by
Angus & Robertson. 1972.
December, 1972.
24.
The Victorian Entomologist
INDEX TO VOLUME TWO
A
Acaoia dealbata
Aoraea andromaaha anchomaoha
Airryema miqueli (Bot.)
Anthela vepleta
2 ( 1 ) : 6
2 (3) : 8
2 (3) ; 9
2 ( 6 ) : 6
B
Black and White Flat
Black-spotted Grass-blue
Blue Argus
Blue Peppermint
Botany for Entomologists
Bvaoonidae
Bushbrowns
(See Tagiades)
(See Zizeeria alsulus )
(See Precis orithya)
(See Eucalyptus dives)
2 (2) : 9-15
2 (4) : 11
(see Mycalesis)
Butterflies, collecting in NE Australian
Butterflies Observed at Gloucester Falls
"Butterflies of Australia", Review of
Butterflies of the Victorian Big Desert
Butterflies Wanted by National Museum of
Victoria, Species of
Butterfly-collecting Trip to Flinders Island,
Results of a
2 (5) : 17-23
2 (5) : 16
2 ( 6 ) 21 .
2 (3) : 5-7
2 (4) : 8-10
2 (3) : 4-5
C
Callitris columellcvcis (Murray Pine) (Bot.)
Camponotus nigriceps
Camponotus sp.
Cardinia Creek, Report of Excursion to
(Gives a list of Lepidoptera and some
other Orders taken)
2 (6) : 14
2 (3) ; 9
2 (3) : 6
2 (2) : 5-7
December, 1972.
25.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
C
Catochry sops panormus platissa
2 (6) :
8-9.
Catopsilia pomona pomona
2 (5) :
17,
Catopsilis pyranthe orokera
2 (5) :
17,
Choretrum glomeratum (Bot.)
2 (3) :
6.
Collecting in North-eastern Australia
2 (5) :
17.
Compositae (Asteraceae ) (Bot.)
2 (2) :
13.
Conservation Projects, Victorian
2 (4) :
5.
Conservation Council of Victoria
2 (4) :
5.
Crotalaria (Bot.)
2 (6) ;
9 .
Cyperaaeae (Bot. )
2 (2) :
10.
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder-fern) (Bot.)
2 (6) :
14.
D
Delias nigrina
2 (6) :
9.
Dollesohallia bisaltide australis
2 (5) :
18.
E
Erina hyaointhina hyaointhina
2 (3) :
8.
Eucalyptus albens (White Box) (Bot,)
2 (6) :
14.
E. dives (Blue Peppermint)
2 (1) :
6.
E, melliodora (Yellow Box)
2 ( 1 ) :
6 .
E, paueiflora (Snow Gum)
2 (6) :
15.
E, radiata (Narrow-leaved Peppermint)
2 ( 1 ) :
6.
E. rubida (Candlebark Gum)
2 (6) :
15.
E, viminalis (Manna Gum)
2 ( 1 ) :
6.
Eurema
2 (1) :
9 .
Excursion to Cape Liptrap (Walkerville)
2 (6) :
6.
Expedition Range
2 (6) :
11 .
December, 1972.
26. 'The Victorian Entomologist'
F
Flinders Island, Results of a Butterfly
Collecting Trip to
2
(3)
: 4-5.
G
Gahnia (Swordgrass) (Bot.)
2
(6) :
: 6, 7,
Gahnia lanigera (Little Sedge) (Bot.)
2
(3) :
: 7.
Gall Insects
2
(4) :
: 16-12
Gramineae ( Poaaeae ) (Bot.)
2
(2) :
: 10.
Guide Mapping for Faunal Studies
2
(5) :
: 8-9.
H
Hesperilla ohrysotricha oyolospila
2 (6) :
6.
Hesperilla donnysa
2 (6) :
6, 8.
Hesperilla picta
2 (6) :
6.
Holoohila goodingi
2 (3) :
8.
Hymenopteva
2 (4) :
11-12.
Hypoohrysops apelles
2 (5) : 17.
2 (6)
Hypoohrysops digglesii
2 (6) :
10.
H. ignita ohrysonotus
2 (3) :
9.
H. narcissus
2 (5) :
17.
2 (6) :
9.
Hypolycaena phorbas
2 (6) :
10.
I
Iehneumonidae
2 (4) :
11.
Iridaoeae (Bot.)
2 (2) :
11.
Iridomyrmex deteatus (meat ant)
2 (6) :
15.
Iridomyrmex foetans
2 (1) :
6.
Iridomyrmex sp.
2 (1) :
5.
December, 1972.
27.
'The Victorian Entomologist
J
Jalmenus evagoras Some observations on the emergence of
2
(3)
: 8.
Jalmenus evagoras eiohhomi
2
(5)
: 17.
L
Lampides boetiaus
2
(6)
: 8.
Land Conservation Council
2
(A)
: 5.
Larva, Description of "Small Copper" (Lucia limbaria)
2
(1)
: 5.
Leguminoseae ( Fabaoeae) (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 1A.
Lepidoptera
2
(1)
: 6.
Liliaoeae (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 11.
Liphyra bras soils major
2
(5)
: 18.
Logoniaceae (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 13.
Lomandra filiformis (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 7.
Loranthaoeae (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 15.
Lyoaenidae
2
(1)
: 6.
M
Manna Gum (See Euo. viminalis)
Mesodina halyzia
2
(6)
: 6.
Methodology
Preparation of wings. Palpi, of Lepidoptera
for Micro-photography and Microscopic
Examination
2
(3)
: 11-
Motasingha atralba
2
(3)
: 9.
Muttilidae
2
(5)
: 15.
Myoalesis
2
(1)
: 9.
Myrtaoeae (Bot.)
2
(2)
: 11.
N
National Parks Service
2
(A)
: 5.
North-eastern Australia, Collecting in
2
(5)
: 17-
North Queensland, Winter Collecting Trip to
2
(6)
December, 1972.
28.
’The Victorian Entomologist
0
Ogyris abrota
Ogyris amaryllis amaryllis
Ogyris bamardi
Ogris idrno waterhouseri„ Collected Specimens
Ogyris otanes
Oxalis comiculata (Bot.)
Ogyris oroetes
P
Pachlioptera polydorus
Papilio ulysses
Patersonia (Native Flag) (Bot.)
Phigalia Skipper
Philiris innotata evinoulis
Pompilidae
Precis orithya
Pseudalmenus nryrsilus zephyrus,
Some Notes on the Life History of
Pseudodipsas cuprea , Life History,
Notes and Observations
P, digglesii
P, myrmecophila
Pupa, Description of Small Copper (Lucia limbaria)
R
Red-bodied Swallowtail (See Pachlioptera)
Roseaceae (Bot.)
Rutaaeae (Bot.)
S
Santalaceae (Bot.)
Scoliidae
2 (4) : 4.
2 (5) : 17.
2 ( 6 ) : 8 .
2 (3) : 9.
2 (3) : 6.
2 (1) : 5.
2 ( 6 ) : 8 .
2 (1) : 9.
2 (5) : 18.
2 ( 6 ) : 6 .
(See Trapezites phigalia)
2 ( 6 ) : 8 .
2 (4) : 12.
2 (1) : 9.
2 ( 1 ) : 6 .
2 (5) : 10-13.
2 (3) : 9.
2 (3) : 9.
2 (1) : 5.
2 (2) : 15.
2 (2) : 13.
2 (2) : 15.
2 (5) : 14.
December, 1972.
29.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
S
Silver Wattle (See Acacia dealbata)
"Small Copper", Description of the Larval
and Pupal Stages of
2 (1) :
5.
Sulphurs
(See Eurema)
Suniana lascivia
2 (6) :
6.
Suggan Buggan Area, the
2 (6) :
15.
T
Tagiades japetus
2 (1) :
9.
Terminalia
2 (6) :
9.
Thymeleaceae (Bot.)
2 (2) :
13.
Tiphiidae
2 (5) :
14.
Tisiphone abeona ,
2 (6) :
6.
Trapezites phigalia. The Phigalia Skipper
2 (2) :
7-8
Tristania
2 (6) :
9.
V
Victorian Hairstreak, Some notes on the
life history of Pseudolmenus myrsilus zephyrus
Waterhouse, Lyell 1914, the
2 (1) :
6.
W
Waratah Bay (Cape Liptrap), Report of Excursion to
2 (6) :
6.
Winter Collecting Trip to North Queensland
2 (6) :
8.
Y
Yellow Box (See Euc, melliodora)
Z
Zizeeria alsulus alsulus
2 (1) :
9.
■' V - - 1/ •'.•'T : i
—
i
*
'
<#* *■*' ;• «» vofi.y
■
VICTORIAN ENTOMOLOGIST
r
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Regd. at G.P.O. Melb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
40c
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the 5ociety include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of whom receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species ,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at 8 p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions : $
Ordinary Member 3.00
Country Member 2.00
Associate Member 1.00
Junior or Student 1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
The statements and opinions expressed
of the respective authors, and do not
Society.
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &c. may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
in articles herein are the responsibility
necessarily indicate the policy of the
CONTENTS
Office Bearers & Diary n
Editorial
Reports & Notices: Minutes of December meeting 2.
•Service to Members'
Secretary's Annual Report 4.
Treasurer's Report 5*
Publications Committee's Report 5.
P.R. Officer's Report 6.
Librarian's Report 6.
Survey of the Dartmouth Dam area. A, Neboiss. 7«
Insects Recorded near Mt.Stirling, V. J.P.Hutchinson, 8.
Early Stages of the 'Mountain Blue'. W.N.B.Quick. 9.
Early Stages of the 'Rayed Blue*. W.N.B.Quick. 'lO.
Miscellaneous Paragraphs: Candalides consimilis goodingi. ?.
Contributions to Journal. 8,
Country Members. ^2.
Copy for publication in the next issue (Vol. 3| No. 2)
should be in the Editor's hands not later than Tuesday* March 13 •
Material received after this date, 'Service to Members' section
excepted, may be held for inclusion at a later date.
» - ... ’
y
ii
February, 1973* ‘The Victorian Entomologist 1
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
PpssicLeirfc #
Mr. C.W. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill Nth., 3129. V.
Phone 80-9171
Dep. President: Mr. J.C.Lo SouSf, Blairgowrie, V, 3942.
Phone 059888413
Vice-President: Mr.D.E.A,Morton,-15 Eileen St., Armadale. V. 3143
Phone 20-6369
Hon. Sec.: (Ret.) Miss S.Beattie, 2-Clyde St., Glen Iris. V. 314-6*
Phone 50-5263
Hon. Treasurer: Mr.R.Condron, 96 Shannon St.,Box Hill Nth.V.3129*
Phone unavail.
Hon. Editor: Me,A,D,Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd., Mitcham. V. 3132.
Phone'874-6119
Immediate Past President: Mr. P. Kelly.
Hon.- librarian ) Mr. J.F.Hutchinson, Scoresby Sort. Res. Stn.,
P.R. Officer ) Box 174 Eerntree Gully. V. 3156. Phone 231-2233
Diary of Coming Events
February 16th. (Friday). ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. Election of
Office Bearers for 1973* Please note new venue.
April 27th. (Friday). Dr. Ebtershank (Monash University) on Ants
and"General Entomology of New Mexico.
June 22nd. (Friday). Mr. H.B'.WIlson, (Sen.Ent ’st Plant Res.. Inst. )
Insect Telergones and Pheromones,
August 24th. (Friday). Mr. A. Neboiss, (National Museum of Vic.)
on Caddis Flies.
October 19th. (Friday). Dr. D.M.Churchill, (Royal Botanic Gdns.)
Recording of Plant Distribution Data in Victoria and Aust.
December 14th. (Friday). Members Night.
All Meetings Commence at 8.00 p.m.
COUNCIL MEETINGS :
7.30 - 11.00 p.m, March 9, May 11, July 13, Sept, 14, Nov. 9*
at Clunies-Ross House, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville.
;
: ■
•
.
• -S£- I V-- VilO' -T ~ i
'
•" 0 '-; 5i:
.
■> ’’ 1 ' .
* ;■ I" - ' "
-
■ ... : ' » •. ' £ ' ■;. ...
February, 1973
•The Victorian Entomologist*
«
1 .
EDITORIAL
The year 1972 was one of change in the Society. At the
instigation of the Secretary, Miss Sue Beattie, and the Council,
a number of new offices were introduced, a move that greatly
increased the activity, both internal and external, of the Society.
The first steps were taken to organise a grid-mapping survey of
the Victorian insect fauna, a scheme that will be of great value
to conservation and scientific bodies. Membership increased by an
unprecedented amount in 1972 and it is hoped this trend will con¬
tinue .
Unfortunately, another change that came at the end of
the year was the announcement by Miss Beattie of her resignation
from the position of Secretary. The instigator of almost all the
changes of the past two years, Miss Beattie has probably worked
harder, and done more for the Society than anyone else in recent
years. We shall be very fortunate to find someone equally effic¬
ient and forward-looking to replace her. We all hope that her
hard-earned retirement will give her more time for field-work
and relaxation.
The most important national entomological event of the
year was the XIV International Congress of'Entomology held at the
Australian National University in Canberra. Entomologists from
64 countries attended and, judging from the large number of papers
presented, and the many informal meetings held, the Congress was
very successful. Unfortunately, few of our members managed to
attend; our official delegate was Mr. A. Keboiss, and our Public
Relations Officer, Mr. J.F.Hutchinson, distributed information
sheets and copies of the 'Victorian Entomologist*.
Last year saw many changes, too, in this Journal. The
Publications Committee was stabilised, a regular format was
decided upon for the journal, and editorial policies were
formulated. Just when everything seemed organised, however, it
became necessary to change the method of production of the
Journal. This has caused some upsets and apprehension. This issue
represents a compromise which it is sincerely hoped will meet
with the approval of those most respected members _ of long stand¬
ing who were, quite naturally, the most apprehensive about the
Journal's future course. The Editor and Publications Committee
trust that these members will note that, as far as constitution¬
ally possible, their suggestions have been adopted ? and the
Journal produced on schedule. Now, the way it is filled is up to
our author-members.
Finally, the Editor and Publications Committee would
like to join other members in welcoming home our President, his
wife, and family, who recently returned from the United Kingdom,
although not necessarily in that order. Welcome home Charles.
2
February, 1973=
‘The Victorian Entomologist'
Reports and Notices from the Secretary, Miss S, Beattie.
General Meeting: Friday. December 15th., 1972,
The Deputy President, Mr. J.C. Le Souef,"chaired the
meeting which was attended"by 35 members and friends. A special
welcome was extended to Mr.~&_Mrs, Clarice. Apologies were received
from Messrs. G. Burns and ,E„A.Morton,
The minutes of the October were read and confirmed,
moved by Mrs. Le Sou'bf, seconded by D. Holmes.
Correspondence 'was received from _ ;
1; Aust. Entom. Soc., News Bulletin Vol. 8j Part 4. 1972.
2. Aust. Entom. Soc., enquiring whether the Society wishes to
receive only the News Bulletin at a reduced fee, or both the
Journal and the Bulletin at the : .ormal fee.
3. Mr. J. Vesco, 14 bis Mc-ntplaisin, 84.600 Valreas, France, who
wishes to exchange Australian butterflies with those of France,
Japan, Canada and the U.S.A.
4. Land Conservation Council asking for information on the
Arthropod fauna ( Insects, Spiders, Crustaceans ) of various
L.C.C. study areas throughout the state. ( See request else¬
where ‘in Journal •— ecU )
5. Entom. Soc, of Q r land New3 Bulletin, No, 92: Dec. 1972.
6. The Secretary read a no'ae of thanks received from Mrs. Norman
Wakefield for the letter "of condolence the Society sent on
the death of her husband.
Excursion,
It was decided to cancel the excursion to Suggan
Buggan this December (1972) due to the extreme fire danger
throughout the state.
Secretary's Annual R : ' port:
The Secretary announced, her retirement, and read her
report, a synopsis of which follows the Minutes.
Editor's Report :
The Editor thanked the Secretary for all she had
done for the Journal, and explained that a new way of producing
the Journal must be found, listing the advantages and disadvant¬
ages of various methods. This led to an open discussion.
Treasurer 1 s Report:
The Treasurer announced-a balance of $40.80, the
Society's membership standing at 76. 26 Of whom have paid the
Junior or Student subscription of $1.00 .
The Secretary suggested that all subscriptions be
increased in 1975 to provide extra finance for the Society. This
suggestion was not carried.
3
! The Victorian Entomologist'
February, 1973*
Tbe Treasurer announced an intended proposal of a
motion at the February Meeting that Junior/Student subscriptions
be raised to 21.50
Mr. FoHallgarten proposed a motion that no further
increase in subscription be introduced following the Junior/
Student subscription increase, for the next 12 months. This
motion was passed.
Matters Discussed:
(a) The retirement of the Secretary meant finding another
source of printing the Journal. Other methods of production
were discussed.
(b) The possibility of the Society obtaining its own printing
equipment was discudsed. It was decided that because of the
financial situation, the Society could not afford this
purchase, .
(c) The Editor would enquire into 'outside' printing facilities.
(d) A motion was proposed by Mr. A.Neboiss, seconded by P.Kelly,
that the 'Victorian Entomologist' Journal be continued in
its present format in regular bi-monthly issues, and that
the number of pages would depend on the finances available.
This motion was passed unanimously.
Mr. Le Souef thanked the retiring Secretary on behalf of the
Society for all the work she had done in re-organising the Journal
and the Society, and closed the meeting wishing all members good
collecting in the New Year.
++++++++++■
+++++++++
1 Service to Members '
Several members have suggested that a small' section
of the Journal be devoted to listing requirements and surplus
items with which entomologists are sometimes confronted. This
section will be incorporated in the nexb issue (Vol.3: No,2).
The charge to be made for this service is 5 cents per
line, the service being made available to financial members and
ebscribing organisations ONLY. Deadline for copy to be in the
Editor's hands will be the 20th . day of the month prior to #
publication. Insertions initially will be in order of receipt.
Advertising of insects for sale will not be accepted for this
section, and, subject to approval at a general meeting, will be
restricted to paid, advertisements by bona fide commercial breeders
4.
February, 1973. 'The Victorian Entomologist 1
The Secretary's Annual Report.
Dear Members,
In this my last report as Secretary of the Entomological
Society of Victoria, I would like to disclose to you the purpose
of the changes which have taken place within the Society over the
last 18 months, and what my intentions were for the future better¬
ment of the Society.
Initially the function of the past Secretary was to act
both as Secretary and Editor. It became apparent that the position
of Editor was a full-time responsibility, and upon the retirement
of the Secretary/Editor, it was decided to prevent a recurrence of
this situation by re-organising the Society, placing more work on
Councillors and setting up an Editorial Committee.
The rdle of the Editorial Committee is an important one,
for it is their responsibility not only to construct a newsletter
which provides valuable information and interesting reading, but
also to help prevent serious mistakes of fact or interpretation,
which may bring the Society under criticism. The Newsletter
provides a means of communication with country members and those
outside the Society, and tells people who we are and what we do.
For the Newsletter to run most efficiently the Society
must procure its own printing equipment. This of course means
heavy expenditure — finance which the Society has not yet ac¬
quired. It is my wish that in the near future a special fund
be set aside to procure the necessary printing equipment.
In retrospect, 1972 was a successful year for the
Society, There was a considerable increase in membership,
especially junior, and an increased attendance at general
meetings. In an attempt to rebuild the financial structure of the
Society, the cost of postage was reduced by registering the
newsletter, and to cut running costs further, the general meetings
of 1973 are to be held at Clunies-Ross House free of charge.
In conclusion, I would like to thank those members who
have assisted in the reorganisation, especially those who gave me
the courage to continue, and finally to thank the authors who help
keep the Society together. I hope in future more members will
write on a greater variety of subjects. The Editorial Committee
have a big job ahead of them. Remember, this is your Society;
help them help you to keep it l
Best wishes for the Coming Year,
SUSAN BEATTIE,
(Retiring Secretary)
5
February 1973*
•The Victorian Entomologist'
Honorary T reasur er^ Repo rt.
Statement of Receipts_and Expe ndi ture for the Year Ending
^e^embej?, T972*»
Cre dit b al, b/forward 21.27
Rec eipts . Expendit ure.
Interest reed. 1972 1.32 Refund/oversubscript. 3.00
Subscriptions. 1972 138.00 Hon. Sec.'s expenses,
Donations. 3.50 (printing, tel., post,
Sales Victorian Ent., sundries) 42.09
Check List. 4.20 Aust. Ent. Soc. Subs. 10.00
Rent. Library Council. 20.00
Editorial expenses. 11.81
Typist — Journal prep.30.25
Stencil blocks 8,60
Paper — Boomerang
Trading Co, 10.00
Hon. Troas. expenses
(cheque exchange, £.c.) 74
____ Credit bal. Bank. 31.80
168.29 168.29
Report jfron the P ubl icati ons Co mmi ttee.
Pl atte rs Disc us se d at a meetin g hel d Dec emner 28th.
1. It was decided that, in accordance \d.th the constitution,
an issue of the Journal for February, 1973 should be
produced if possible.
2. Means of producing the Journal were discussed.
3. It was decided, after an estimate of the production and
distribution costs of the Journal, had been made, that the
nominal price of the Journal must be raised to 40c per
copy,
4. It was decided that classified advertisements by members
would be accepted for the Journal at a cost of 5c per line.
CORR ECTION
The entry for Mr. Malcolm Moss (Vol. 2, No. 5*
List of Financial Members) should read 57 Raton Crescent,
Boronia, 3155, and his interest as FORMICIDAE not DIPTERA.
February, 1973
'The Victorian Entomologist’
6.
P ublic Relations .Officer's Report
■ In order to increase membership of the Society, and
facilitate reply to those seeking information on the Society, an
information sheet has been prepared, giving relevant information
on eligibility for membership, the aims of the Society, benefits
of membership, plus a list of subscription rates for various_types
of membership available, and application form. These are available
- E ' rom: James F. Hutchinson,
C/- Scoresby Horticultural Research Station,
P.0. Box 174- .
FERNTREE GULLY. V. 3136, Phone 231-2233
At this early stage it is difficult to assess the success
of these sheets, but it is encouraging to see membership of the
Society steadily increasing.
H onorary Librarian 1 s Report
The Society currently subscribes to three entomological
journals viz. The Journal of the Australian Entomological oociety,
Teen International Entomology Group Newsletter, . and Newsletter ox
the Entomological Society of Queensland. In addition to these
publications, the Society has a number of reprints of various arti¬
cles. These have been indexed, and a photocopy of the abstract
placed in the card index system.
If any members have reprints (entomological subjects)
which they no longer require, a copy would be appreciated for
addition to the library. A list of all acquisitions will be
printed in order that members shall be kept up-to-date with
availabilities. A copy of any article can be supplied to order
at 5c per page. Library lists are available on request.
This is your library. If there is any publication you
consider should be added, let a member of the committee know,
piving where possible the name of the publication, the publisher,
and the price, and the merits of the publication will be considered.
Mr. Bob Condron has donated a number of papers, dealing
in particular with the taxonomy of moths, and a detailed list of
these papers, for which the Society is extremely grateful, is m
course of preparation.
7
February, 1973•
•The Victorian Entomologist*
Ecological Survey of Dartmouth Dam Area.
By A. Neboiss +
A new and extensive invertibrate survey was started
on January 3rd. this year to investigate, and produce a report
of, the Dartmouth Dam inundation area. This survey is part of
a general ecological study to be conducted by the University of
Melbourne, the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the
National Museum of Victoria during the next 18 months, and is
planned to include the geology of the area in addition to the
flora and fauna.
The dam across the Mitta Mitta River will be more
than 150 m. (almost 500 ') high, and will span a narrow part of
the river valley about 22km east of the Mitta Mitta township.
It is estimated that it will take about 4 years to fill, the
waters then reaching back as far as Gibbo River about 16km
north of Benambra, and the Dart River close to the Omeo-Nariel
Road, thus forming the third largest water storage in Victoria.
In the field of entomology, main interest is concen¬
trated on water insects, for this is the biota which will ex¬
perience the most changes.
It would be greatly appreciated if any members who.
have collected insects in the area would allow their collections
to be inspected, and notes taken for inclusion in the survey.
Specimens will be returned t<^-&he mmers-fallowing examination.
+ Curator of Insects, National Museum of Victoria, Melbourne.
Candalides consimilis goodingi
A number of sightings, and several captures of this
butterfly in the Dandenong Ranges in recent years may perhaps
only indicate a new awareness of its presence in this area,
although it is astonishing that it should have eluded the many
competent entomologists who have collected there extensively.
If, as has been recorded for NSW., Tieghemopanax is
a host in Victoria, it is not inconceivable that some increase
in numbers and distribution may be due to adoption of Common
Ivy, Hedera helix , as a host. This plant has regrettably been
permitted to invade forests in the area in recent years.
8
February, 1973.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
List of Ins e ct Specie s Taken Dec. 3rd., 1972 near Mt. Stirling,
Vietofia, at 2730 r ~T 9l0m )
By J.F,Hutchinson t
LEPIDOPTERA;
Pieridae: Anaphaeis ,1 ava teutonia (Pabr. ) 1776 (1, very worn)
Pieris rapae (L.~) 1738.
Nymphalidae: Vanessa kershawi (McCoy) 1868
Iycaenidae: Pseudalmenus chlorinda zephyrus W.&L. 1914-
C 1 specimen, tail on both hind
wings missing.)
Candalides heathi alpinus Waterhouse 1928,
specimens of a host plant,
Par ahebe derwentiana (Scrophul-
ariaceae) brought hack.
Z izina otis labradus (Godart) 1819
Agaristidae: 1 species, not yet determined.
COLEOPTERA:
Curculionidae: 1 unidentified sp.
Chrysomelidae: Paropsis . 3 unidentified spp.
Cleridae: 1 unidentified sp.
Coccinellidae: 1 unidentified sp.
(Coleoptera obtained by beating Eucalypt foliage.)
t Address p. ii --- -
Additional to the above records of Mr. Hutchinson. , the
following butterfly species have been.taken in the same area:
Hesperidae: Pasm a tasm anica (Misk.) 3.xii,72 (N.Q.)
Nymphalidae: Vanessa itea ^Fabr.) 8.i.73 (A.B.)
Geitoneur a klugi k lugi (G-M) 8.1.73 (A.B.)
Heteronymp ha cordace cordace (Geyer) 8.i.73 (A.B.)
Lycaenidae: H eolucia agricola agricola ~(VJestw.& Hev/) 8.i.73 (AB)
Neolucia hobar tensis hobartensi s (Misk.) 3.xii.72 (NQ.)
T?Ee former around Davie sia',~ the latter presumed to
be breeding on Epacris paTudosa at the riverside.)
COUTRIBUTIONS TO THE JOURNAL
The Editor urgentl 3 r requires short scientific papers,
’popular 1 articles, or paragraphs on any aspect of entomology.
These should preferably be typed and double-spaced. It is
recommended that scientific papers follow CSIRO guidelines, but
this is not necessary for other articles. Notes and observations
on groups other than butterflies would be particularly welcome.
9 .
February, 1973*
'The Victorian Entomologist'
Early Stages of the "Mountain Blue",
Neolucia hobart ensi s hobarten sis (Miskin) 1890
( LEPIDOPTERA - Lycaenidae )
By W.N.B. Quick ®
Appearing on the wing early in January, but often
still plentiful well into March, few Lycaenids - "Blues" - are
more characteristic of the alpine herbfields than this incon¬
spicuous little butterfly.
At an altitude of 1500 - 1700 m, ( 4500'- 5000 1 ), its
host-plants, Ep ac ris paludo sa ( E, bawba wensis) and E, petrophila
abound in the spKagnum-heatE fringe’s of the tarns criss-crossing
the alpine meadow, the latter species sometimes extending to
some distance from the wetter areas.
Both are low-growing heaths with conspicuous, slightly-
but sweetly-fragrant white flowers, E, paludosa , the earliest
to flower, has harsh and rather prickly foliage not unlike_that
of E, impressa (Common Heath), while E , petr o phila is distingui¬
shed by its very small, closely-set and blunt leaves, the young
twigs with a film of satiny-grey down.
On Mt. Baw Baw at 1550m. (4700'), N, hobartensis
appears to favour E, paludosa as host, but on Echo Flat~at" Lake
Mountain this plant does not produce young shoots immediately
after flowering, and E, petrophila becomes the major host.
The eggs, deposited singly near the foliage tips, are
mandarin-shaped and appear to consist of three 'layers', with
the circumference of each layer conspicuously scalloped,_and the
flat top patterned with shallow indentations. Eggs deposited
early in summer appear to produce a second brood, while those
laid late in the season do not hatch until the following spring.
If flowers or flower-buds are present, these are att¬
acked by the smaller larvae in preference to foliage, and very
young larvae are often found within the perianth. The older larvae
feed almost exclusively on foliage, and in daylight. They are
not attended by ants. While feeding, the larvae cling to the
outermost tip of a lower leaf, assuming an extraordinary jelly¬
bean-like attitude, without any attempt at concealment.
The mature larva is bright apple-green, with the
characteristic Lycaenid 'herring-bone' pattern, and two lateral
0 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. V. 3150.
February, 1973.
10.
'The Victorian Entomologist'
sudV] I en f th . 8 - ; ons. larvae, when initial rood
es were consumed, transferred readily to Epacris nicro-
,‘*^ J _ no 'ti 111 ® was any tendency towards canni'EaTTsm’^oFsorved.
ffronnS coat J a: FN> larvae showed a tendency to form small
groups, and pupated m close proximity.
?‘?' rs ' fc S r f®nisb, later creamy-brown with a fine
- ^- ane > anc ^ paired streaks laterally on the thorax
and abdomen, black, omooth except for a few minute scattered
hairs on the anterior end. length 6 mms. Spiracles black. All pupae
reared were attached to small twigs or occasionally to a leaf,
_ne pupal duration, for a temperate-zone species, is very brief,
one butterfly emerging after only eight days. The butterfly
closely resembles h. agricola which may be taken in the same
area, ana as in that species, neither sex shows any trace of
blue colouration, the uppersides being wholly dark brown.
Both Epacris paludosa and S. petr ophila are attractive
small garden plants,and with a little shade, thrive in naturally
acidic soils, or soils on which a thick sav/dust mulch has been
used. Germination from seed is impracticable for the inexperien¬
ced, and cuttings in a cold-frame seem a more rewarding method
for propagation. The butterfly is seldom found far from its host
p_ant, and because of its small size, the establishment of breed¬
ing colonies may be practicable.
Notes on the Early Stages of the "Hayed Blue",
Candalides heathi heathi (Cox) 1873
( LEFIDOPTEHA - Lycaenidae )
By W.N.B. Quick 1
^Although J.A. Kershaw had recorded Veronica ( now
Parahebe ) as a host plant of this species at Trafalgar (V.) prior
to 19077 a nd Earahebe derwentiana has more recently been quoted
as a host in the Brindabella Ranges, NSW.,(1) it was not until
early December, 1972 that I was able to make my own observations.
In actual fact, I had not until then ever taken the species in
Victoria, Charles McCubbin recorded (2) one or two specimens
collected at night near Howman’s Gap, settled on Pimelea, Plantago
spp. and Westr ingia rosmarinifolia have also been recorded as
host plants in NSW,
+ 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley, V. 3150 .
11 .
February, 1973.
’The Victorian Entomologist’
Early in December 1972 an excursion to tbe upper
reaches of the Howqua River, where Mr. D.F.Crosby had prev¬
iously taken the species, yielded a number of specimens of
both sexes. Parahebe ' dcrwentiana (Veronica) was everywhere,
as also was Plantago . Pimelea was represented in the immed¬
iate vicinity it seemed by only one solitary and overgrown
specimen of P. ligustrina on the river bank. No trace of any
species of Westringia was expected or found.
During the early afternoon a female Candalides
heathi was noticed hovering around flowers of a lush clump
of the Veronica, but was not seen to oviposit. A little later
a second insect, also a female, was observed to be paying
some attention to another clump of Veronica, this clump
without flowers..........i. there were however no signs of
any intention to oviposit. Much later in the afternoon
a very substantial and mature patch of Veronica was noticed
on a slope lit by the afternoon sun, and on this a butterfly
was at last seen ovipositing. My entry into this patch to
collect the egg disturbed what must have been 15 or 20 other
butterflies of the same species, and a search of several
plants disclosed many eggs, some of which had already hatched.
The eggs are deposited singly, usually in the leaf
axils, but also on stems, upper and lower leaf-surfaces, and
occasionally on flower-spikes. They are clearly visible to
the naked eye. Under moderate magnification they appear
mandarin-shaped, coarsely and irregularly pitted, with
raised ridges separating the pits.
Young larvae from eggs laid on or near flower-
spikes continue feeding on these during the early instars.
Larvae from eggs on other parts of the plant feed on foliage
alone, and mainly at night„ Short vermiform _ patches are
eaten from the under-surface of the leaf, leaving the upper
cuticle intact. The larvae rest in those eaten areas, and
viewed from above the overall translucency of the leaf appears
unaltered. This habit persists until the final instar, the
larvae consuming progressively larger areas as their body-
area increases. During the final instar, unless reduced to
subsisting on very tough old foliage, larvae adopt the more
"conventional" approach, and eat irregular sections from the
leaf edges.
Mature larvae are bright green, minutely bristly
but with a conspicuous pair of pale setae laterally on each
segment. Thoracic segments prominently separated, almost
tuberculate. Posterior segments markedly flattened, and
12
-February, 197b* 'The Victorian Entomologist'
with the extensile dorsolateral organs very prominent. They
are half-heartedly attended by several species of small
black ants, but do not appear to be attacked by fungi in the
absence of any ants. No tendency to cannibalism was noticed
amongst the larvae reared. As pupation approaches, dull
reddish-purple markings become apparent in the character¬
istic dorsal herring-bone pattern. Length 14-16mm.
The pupa is typical of those of other members of
this genus, narrowly flanged at the anterior end, but very
markedly so on the abdominal segments, which are produced
into a prominent and serrate dorsal ridge. A pair of deep
dorso-lateral pits between the thoracic and abdominal
segments. Variable in colour according to the pupal surround¬
ings, but normally some shade of brown or black. Pupation
appears to take place in debris at the base of the plant, or
in a dead leaf on the plant itself. Length approx. 12 mms.
It will be noted that this butterfly has been
referred to as Candalides heathi heathi rather than the
alpine race C, hT alpinus Waterhouse 1928. Variation
within the series taken included examples typical of both,
and may indicate that a cline exists between these two
apparent races. It was not found possible to induce larvae
to accept Plantago lanceolata as an alternative food, as
reported by E.D.Edwards (3) with larvae from the Brindabella
Range, NSW.
(1) Common & Waterhouse in "Butterflies of Australia",
Angus & Robertson, 1972. P.422.
(2) Unpublished data.
(3) Common & Waterhouse in "Butterflies of Australia",
Angus & Robertson, 1972. P.422.
Country Members.
There is a tendency for city members to overlook
the fact that our country members are fortunate enough —_
in some respects — to live in districts which we may visit
at the best on infrequent occasions. In consequence, they
often have a much broader knowledge of the insect fauna
within their own environs, and could add considerably to our
knowledge of the distribution and early stages of many insects.
The editor would welcome notes of any kind from country
members, who form a valuable section of the Society's struct¬
ure.
THE
VICTORIAN ENTOMOLOGIST
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
* « .
' ' • . ..
40 c
Regd. at G.P.O. Me lb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the 5ociety include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of whom receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at 8 p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions:
$
Ordinary Member
3.00
Country Member
2.00
Associate Member
1.00
Junior or Student
1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &.c . may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
The statements and opinions expressed in articles herein are the responsibility
of the respective authors, and do not necessarily indicate the policy of the
Society .
April, 1973.
i
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
Office Bearers £, Diary
Reports & Notices: Annual General Meeting
Council Meeting
Publications Committee Meeting
librarian's Report
Brisbane Range Excursion Report
A Rare Sighting at Bundaberg. (Q.) Garry Sankowsky
Life History of Tox idia andersoni. (IIlust.) D.P.Crosby
Breeding Victorian Butterflies. A.D.Bishop & N.Quick
Mt Baw Baw: Notes on Some Alpine Butterflies
Death of Norman McCance
An Unusual Dart-tail (Cleonymid Wasp)
Miscellaneous Notes & Paragraphs: 'Aerial' Species
A Note from the North
Authors' Illustrations
Service to Members — Classified Advertisements
Barbecue Details
CONTENTS
ii
1
2
3
3
13
4
5
7
14
16
17
4
13
15
17
16
Copy for publication in the next issue of the Journal should
be in the hands of the Editor not later than Sunday, May 13.
Material received after this date will be held over for inclusion
at a later date.
No article in this Journal may be reproduced in whole or in
part without prior permission of the author(s) concerned.
April, 1973
ii.
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President:
Mr. C.W.McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill North., V. 3129.
Phone 89-9171
Vice-Pres.: Mr. W.N.B.Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. V. 3150
Phone 560-8145
Hon. Sec.: Mr. Shane McEvey, 5 Gissing St., Blackburn Nth. V. 3130
Phone 878-4724
Hon. Treasurer: Mr. R.Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth. V.
Phone unavail.
Hon. Editor: Mr. A.D.Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd., Mitcham. V. 3132.
Phone 874-6119
Hon. Librarian ) Mr. J.F. Hutchinson, Scoresby Hort. Res. Stn.,
P.R.Officer ) Box.174 Perntree Gully. V. 3156. 231-2233
Councillors: ,
Mr. R.C. Manskie, 8 Smith Rd., Springvale North, V. 3171. >
Mr. A. Neboiss, National Museum of Victoria, Melbourne. V. 3000..
Diary of Coming Events
Ap ril 27th., 1973» Bi-monthly meeting. Dr. Ettershank (Monash
University) on 'The Ants and General Entomology
of New Mexico.'
May 26th., 1 973* (Saturday) Late.Afternoon Barbecue Hinglake West,
followed by .night-light collecting. Details
elsewhere.
June Excursion . Date to be discussed et April meeting. Phillip
Island to attempt location of over-wintering
area for the Wanderer Butterfly.
J une 22nd . , 1973 », Bi-monthly meeting. Mr. H.B.Wilson, Senior
Entomologist, Plant Res, Inst., on 'Insect
Telcrgones and Pheromones'.
Su bse quent Meetings: August 24th., October 19th., December 14th.
(Por venue refer inside front cover)
COUNCIL MEETINGS:
7.30 - 11.00 p.m., May 11, r July 13, Sept. 14, Nov. 9th., all at
C l unles- Ross House, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville.
EXCURSIONS:
Notes on proposed excursions will be located elsewhere.
April, 1973
1.
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
Repor ts and _Not dees*
ANNUAL GENERAL MELTING: Eriday, Eebruary 16, 1973, at Clunies-
Ross House, National Science Centre.
The President, Mr. C.W. McCubhin, chaired the meeting
which was attended by 28 members and friends. Apologies were
received from Miss S. Beattie, Miss E. Matherson and Miss H.
Malcolm. Minutes of the December meeting were read and confirmed.
Acceptance moved by Mr. E. Hallgarten, seconded Mr. R. Condron.
Correspondence was received from:
1. "Banjora" of the "Weekly Times", requesting Membership
Application forms, and advising of the recent death of Mr.
Norman McCance.
2. Mr. Paul H. Carlson, Elorida Agricultural and Mechanical
University, who requested an application form.
3. The General Committee of the Australian Natural History
Medallion, 1973, with dossier information and nomination forme
4. Mr. Donald Baumgartner, Cicero, Illinois, USA., requesting
information regarding Society membership.
5. J. McAllister! Library of New South Wales, requiring Journals-
Vol. 1: No. 1, et seq.
6. P.B.Carne, Secretary, The Australian Entomological Society, .
giving details of an essay award for third-year University
students, proposing to follow an entomological profession, and
inviting suggestions for suitable topics.
Ele c tion of Of fice Be arers for 1973*
The Immediate Bast President, Mr. P. Kelly, took the chair
for the election of the Office-Bearers for 1973. The retiring
President, Mr. Charles McCubbin, was re-elected for a second term
of office. Mr. N. Quick and Mr. S. McEvey were elected to the
positions of Vice-president and Hon. Secretary respectively, all
other Office-bearers being returned to office. Election of
additional committee members was deferred until the April
General Meeting.
Matters Discussed:
Mrs. Le Sou§f moved, and Mr. McCubbin seconded, that the.
Society should hear reports from the Committee at General Meetings
ightening members of committee business and committee meeting
activities. . ^. _
The Treasurer moved that the annual subscriptions ior
junior or student members be increased by 50 cents to El. 50 , with
other subscriptions remaining unaltered. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Hallgarten, and carried. • • • , . <
Mr. N. Quick announced an alternative method of reproduction
of photographs for authors requiring illustrations. The process
will reduce authors' expenses by up to $3.00,
4 - •
April, 1973. The 'Victorian Entomologist'
Report of the A N NU A L GE NERAL MEETING, (Cent, from previous page.)
Exhibits:
Mr. R. Condron exhibited some insects collected in the
Big Desert, including grasshoppers and some insects collected at
night•
Mr. S. McEvey's exhibit of some butterflies collected in
Cairns last January included some interesting specimens of
Nar ath ura wildei (Small Oakblue) and Graphium macfarlanei, the
'Green Triangle'.
Mr. J. Hutchinson exhibited Coleoptera from the Brisbane
Ranges collected on October 22, 1972 on flowering Le pt os p ermum
and Eucalypt foliage. Representatives of the following "families ■
were displayed: Chrvsomelidae (7 spp.): Elateridae (3 spp.):
Buprestidae (3 spp.): Curculionidae (5 spp.) and Cerambicidae (1 sp.)
He also displayed specimens from the Big Desex-t, taken on November
6th, 1972, again from Leptospermum flowers, and representing the
following families: Buprestidae (16 spp,): Scarabaeidae (4 spp.)
Cleridae (5 spp.): Curculionidae (4 spp.) and Coccinellidae (2 spp.).
COUNCIL MEETING , March 9th., 1973
Matters D iscussed:
1. It was proposed that the following amendments and changes be
made to the constitution. (Motion to be put to the next
General Meeting.)
S ection 7 (b) : Amend the phrase ."and eight other members"
to read ...."and up to eight other members".
Section 3 . Terminate first sentence by adding the words "with
the approval of a general meeting".
The following add.it ions to the Constitution are proposed:
"The .Editor shall be appointed by the Committee, and in turn
the Publications Committee is to be co-opted by the Editor to
the approval of the Society's General Committee."
"The Editor and the Publications Committee shall accept
responsibility for content, format and costing of the Journal,
with the obligation to refer controversial matters to General
Meetings."
2, It was proposed that the following motions be put to the next
general meeting:
"That advertisements in the Journal be accepted from b ona fide
commercial breeders only . (In respect of advertisements of
insects for sale.)
"That the Treasurer be authorised to pay any expenses approved
by the General Committee."
3
The ’Victorian Entomologist'
April, 1973.
3 -. The following EXCURSIONS were proposed for 1973-4.
May, 1973: Kinglake West.
June: Winter trip to'Phillip Island.
Mid-October: Inglewood. (Whipstick Scrub).
November: (Cup Weekend). Big Desert,
Late November: Mt. Macedon.
Christmas-New Year: Suggan Buggan.
Late January, 1974: Extended trip to eastern Victorian
rain-forest and Cape Everard.
Mid-February: Inglewood. (Whipstick Scrub).
Report o f PUBL ICATIONS CO MMITTEE MEETING. 16.3 .' 73.
Matters Discussed:
1* The Publications Committee shall consist of: Editor, three
regular members, and ex-officio members as deemed necessary.
2. From time to time the Publications Committee shall publish
a list of Juniors, other than members, together with their
interests, in order that our Society's junior members may, if
they wish, correspond, or exchange with, these other youngsters
This has been made possible by liason with "Banjora" of the
"Weekly Times", who will forward names for inclusion. In this
regard, Ray Besserdin has consented to act as a Liason Officer,
preparing lists &c. for the Editor. His address is 35 Quinn St.
Heidelberg, V. 5084.
3 . Charges for various types of advertisements were determined,
and a Rate-card has been produced for intending advertisers,
4. The Publications Committee shall meet on the thir d Friday of
odd months, i.e. exactly alternating with General Meetings.
Honorar y Li brarian's Report.
Additions to t he Lib rary:
"A New Race of the Butterfly Ogyri s orootes ." W.N.B.Quick.
(Reprint. Vic, Nat. 89 (4): 107-112. 'April, 1972.)
"Forestry in Victoria"
"Forests of Victoria"
The former was prepared for the Eighth All Australian Timber
Congress which was held in Melbourne in April 1972. Basical.ly it
is a review of forestry activities and objectives. The latter is
reprinted from the Victorian Year Book 1972, No. 86 . It lists the
forests in Victoria which come under the jurisdiction of the
Forests Commission of Victoria, with a short note on each.
Both donated by the Forests Commission of Victoria, Meloourne.
April, 1973.
4.
The 'Victorian Entomologist
Missing Books:
The following two journals are missing from the library:
J. Aust. ent. Soc. 10 (2) June 1971.
J. Aust. ent. Soc. 11 1,2) June 1972.
It would be appreciated if members would check their
shelves to see if they have either or both. They may be handed
to me at the next Meeting, or posted to the address on page (ii).
A Rare Sighting at Bundaberg, 0.
By Garry Sankowsky. +
On December 12, 1972 the author visited a small scrub
about 20miles (30 1cm.) north of Bundaberg, and was surprised
when a perfect specimen of Hypol imnas a limena lamina (Blue-
banded Eggfly) was netted. In ”15‘years ' of colTecting in the
Bundaberg area, this species has never before been sighted.
A few days later the same spot was re-visited and two
further specimens sighted. After these sightings it was
assumed that the species was breeding locally, and a search
for larvae was commenced. After several hours of crawling
around the scrub floor, five eggs and two .larvae were found.
All five eggs hatched, and the seven larvae were fed on
a cultivated species of Pseuderant homu ra until about half-grown,
when the supoly ran out. In desperation, Sida was tried and
they ate this with some reluctance. They all“pupated however,
though somewhat undersized.
Their numbers would never become very great -in the
area as they have to compote with Doleschal 1ia bi saltide
australi s (The Australian le af wing") for the Tio’st plant.
D. bisaltide larvae develop at about four times the rate of
H. a limena , and are more aggressive, often devouring smaller
larvae present on the same plant.
+ P.0. Box 175, North Tamborine, Qld., 4272.
'Aerial 1 Species.
Some interesting collecting may await collectors,.
particularly in rain-forest areas, when more attention is
focussed on the tree-tops. Many climbers and several
epiohytes and parasitic plants are apparent only at this level ?
and* could support as yet unrecorded species such as the Ph iliris
species (Lepidopt.: Lycaenidae) lately discovered in New Guinea.
5
April, 1973* - The 'Victorian Entomologist 1
Life History of the Butterfly Tqxidia_ anders oni (Kirby)
(. LEPIDOPTERA: Hcsperidae )
By D.F.Crosby $
Eor many years Anderson's Skipper has been placed
in the genus He sper illa Hewitson; however this was corrected
by McCubbin (T971: 1$l3) who noted that the late F.E.Wilson
had bred the species on Wire-grass (Tetrarrhena juncea), and
that the larva and pupa are of the Toxidia typo, quite distinct
from Hesperi lla.
Subsequently Common & Waterhouse (1972: 104)
commented similarly, but added a description of the larval
head and pupal shell.
Shortly after Wilson's death, his widow offered the
writer his sundry files, and amongst them were the following
items:
(a) A short typed description of the occasion when females
of §• .p ndersoni were seen to oviposit, and a description
of the egg.
(b) Two photographs of a larva, one of which had the word
"andersoni" written on the reverse.
(c) A photograph of an egg which corresponded with the
written description.
(d) A photograph of a Toxidia -type pupa.
These five items had been fastened together and were
clearly part of an article which Wilson proposed to write. The
typed descriptions read as follows:
"Life Histor y of_Hesperill a anderso n i Kirby. "
E. andersoni was flying commonly at Kallista, Victoria ?
on the morning of January 2nd, 1948. Two of the above species
were seen to oviposit, and both were collected for identification
after depositing the eggs. The eggs were placed on the underside
of a dry Eucalypt leaf in one instance, and on a dry frond of
Bracken Fern in the other. Both eggs were deposited on leaves
suspended within three inches of the ground in a dense growth of
'wire grass', (T. distich ophylla ). (This identification appears
to be incorrect, and should read T. .juncea, the other species
being restricted to sandy ground in light forest — Ed.)
April, 1973*
6.
'The Victorian Entomologist 1
Descrip tion of Egg* (-Fig. 1)
Dome-shaped, flattened at base and anterior end. An
irregular light brown ring round middle, lightly flecked with
brown spots within flattened area surrounding micropyle.
Fifteen strong vertical ribs extending from base to edge of
flattened area of anterior end."
The four photographs mentioned are reproduced on the
following page. Fig. 1, Egg: Fig. 2 shows the larva in
dorsal view: ' approximate length 15111111 ., and probably early in
final instar. Fig. 5 shows the larva in a rough shelter made
from an Eucalypt us leaf drawn together with silk strands, and
Fig. 4 tES~pupa"~in lateral view.
Common and Waterhouse ' indicate that the butterfly
collection of the National Museum of Victoria contains the
larval head, pupal shell, and female insect bred by Wilson.
These 5terns were inspected and found to match the photographs.
The cast larval head is 3mm. wide, and of a deep brown
colour. The pupal shell is a deep brown colour also, and is
distinctive in that the wing-case areas have darker markings on
them simulating the veins and termen of the forewing. The
prothoracic spiracles are particularly pronounced. Overall
length 17 mm.
The label attached to the mounted pupal shell reads:
"TOXIDIA ANDERSONI
KALLISTA. V.
21. 11. 49.
FIRST BRED EX (P)"
The labels attached to the female adult read:
"KALLISTA. V.
21-11. 49 B
B. GIVEN"
"FIRST KNOWN BRED
EXAMPLE."
During the early days of his collecting, the author was
frequently in contact with Wilson, and on a number of occasions
had been told of the success in breeding the species, and was
shown the photographs. For many years Wilson had been a close
friend of the late M.W.Mules, and the photographs were either
taken by him or for him at the CSIRO. Wilson was not known to
use a camera.
REFERENCES:
Common, I.F.B. & Waterhouse, D.F., 1972 "Butterflies of
Australia" (Angus & Robertson. Sydney.) . .
McCubbin, Charles, 1971* "Australian Butterflies" (. Thos,
Nelson & Sons, Sydney.)
$ D.F.Crosby, 7 Russell St., Toorak. V. 3142.
April, 1973.
7.
The 'Victorian Entomologist
Not es on Breeding V ictor ian Bu tte rflies.
By A.D.Bishop and V/.N.B. Quick. ®
ABSTRACT
Techniques are discussed for obtaining eggs and rearing
larvae of butterflies. Rotes are included on a number of Victorian
species of which the authors have had experience.
INTRODUCTION
The breeding of butterflies is an important aspect of their
study neglected by most amateur collectors. Their neglect is
often due to the mistaken belief that breeding insects is a
difficult, complicated, and time-consuming process; but in fact
many Victorian species can be bred very successfully with very
little attention, and employing very simple techniques. The
collector who can breed butterflies has new fields of study open
to him. Of the many applications, the following are worthy of
mention:
(i) 'Recording. of_ Life-histor ies. There are still a number of
Victorian species of which, the egg, larva, pupa and host-
plant are unknown. If a fertile female insect can be induced
to lay eggs, then larvae and pupae can be obtained far more
easily than by searching.
(ii) Breed ing for experi mental stock. Eggs, larvae, pupae or
imagines may be reouired for experimental work, and breeding
is the logical way to obtain the large^numbers usually
required. If uniformity is desired, this can usually be
obtained by inbreeding.
(hi) G enet ic experimen ts . If it is desired to determine the
genetic behaviour of a character, it is necessary to breed
the species involved with as low a mortality rate as is
possible.
(iv) Breeding specimens for co lle ct ions. Some qu: e rare, or
apparently rare, species“are" surprisingly eat ly bred, and
this is a much more satisfactory way of obtaining specimens
than collecting in the field; in addition, natural populat¬
ions are not unduly depleted. Natural phenomena associated
with, population control and apparent rarity are not inireq-
uently disclosed. It should be remembered, however, that
the specimens so obtained, do not? nopnosont? a random sample
of a natural population.
BASIC TECHNIQUES
Many well-known books contain good sections-on breeding
techniques; Common and '/aterhjuse (1972) is recommended to those
who hSVe not read it. It is not the intention of these notes to
duplicate what has already been published in such books. Rather,
a lev/ basic techniques and pieces of equipment (some not widely
employed) v/ill be suggested here, and referred to in the section
on individual species.
April, 1973.
The 'Victorian Entomologist’
Pig. 1
Pig. 2 Pig* 4
Life History of the Butterfly To xidi a andersoni (Kirby)
Pig. 3
April, 1973.
9.
The ‘Victorian Entomologist'
1• Obtai ning Eg gs.
Most species will fail to oviposit without coming into contact
with the foodplant or a related plant; the usual method of in¬
ducing oviposition is to confine the female insect over such a
plant. If the foodplant is unknown, it may be profitable to try
that of a related species. It should be noted that many butter¬
flies, when captive, will lay eggs on plants other than thoir
natural host species; thus many satyrids will oviposit on almost
any species of grass. Most species will lay eggs only after
feeding, and some only in direct sunlight.
(a) Inten sive contact te chn ique. A fertile female butterfly is
placed in sucE a situation That it must intermittently come
into physical contact with the foodplant. This method often
produces better results than creating a painstakingly
"natural" situation.
Small foodplants are grown in a 6-inch pot, and a frame
formed from two wire hoops (coat-hanger wire is sufficiently
strong) soldered or otherwise secured at right angles to each
other, is inserted in the pot. A section of stocking, closed
or knotted at the upper end, is then fitted over the frame
and rim of the pot, and the butterfly introduced from the
side. Alternatively, pot and frame may be dropped into an
entire stocking from the open end, the butterfly introduced,
and the top closed by an elastic band. Watering is done
directly through the mesh of the stocking.
Larger foodplants may be grown in cans or garden beds,
and the female butterfly introdxiced into a sleeve over a
branch of the plant. If it is desirable to exclude ants from
such an enclosure, the stem below the sleeve, and any stems
having foliage touching the sleeve, should be liberally
ringed with vaseline or grease.
(b) H oriz ontal E nclosure . This is necessary only for the few
species'which’""oviposit in flight, (Oreixenica ori chora is
an example), but might well be tried ""if "littie" or no success
is obtained by method (a). Construction is identical with
that described above, but the wire hoops should be longer,
say, three times the diameter of the pot, and the set-up
laid on its side except for watering. Small species will
have room to flutter if not fly freely, but may need to
be stirred from time to time. The introduction of several
butterflies into the one enclosure will assist greatly in this
regard if segregation of the eggs is not required.
Cc) "Natural" Situation. This method should be necessary only
if (a)" and"Tb)’"fail. A large enclosure, similar to an
aviary is provided with flowering plants in addition to
the food-plant. The provision of correct flora may prove to
be of the" utmost importance, and is currently being research¬
ed overseas. Myrtaceae and Comp osit ae appear to be most
patronised by the"satyrids," and the latter by the Hesperidae.
10.
April, 1973. ' 'Victorian Entomologist'
Feeding of butterflies in the smaller enclosures can be
accomplished with a small brush, placing a drop of. sweet-.
ened water near where they are at rest. Touching the tarsi
of the second or third pairs of legs will.enable the insect
to sense its presence, and the proboscis is almost instantly
extended. Early morning 'misting' of the smaller enclosures,
simulating dew, is essential, for it is at this time of day
during which the insect's moisture losses are replaced.
2. Rearing La rv ae.
The simplest method is to leave the eggs.on the food-
plant, taking care to keep the environment sufficiently humid
to prevent desiccation. This is especially important with forest
species, and may necessitate using a perforated or punched poly¬
thene bag over the smaller enclosures, and careful attention to
shading from direct sunlight. The wire frame and stocking should
bo pots-ined *fco provoirb sti?3.ying oiid. provide protection from
parasites. Great care should be taken to prevent access by ants,
at least until the eggs have hatched. Pots can be stood in.a
shallow vessel of water for this purpose. Apart from watering of
the foodrlant, very little attention is needed. A1chough cho
greatest danger to most species is iron desiccation, if the oOil
and plant arc too wet, larvae, particularly.when pre—pupal, may
succumb to fungal infection. Ranger from this source can be
reduced by over—shading the enclosure rather fcnan exposing it to
too much sunlight, and by allowing freely-circulating air to
reach the enclosure at all times. . ,, ,
gp minimum mortality rate is essential, bhe above method
may be unsatisfactory. In this case larvae should bo kept in »
clean, cool plastic box or polythene bag, and P 1G ces of food-
plant supplied as required. Rinsing the foliage of the foodplant
in very weak potassium permanganate solution, and drying with a
sterile towel may he desirable in extreme cases. Provided that
the container is kept scrupulously clean, and appropriate shelter
supplied for larvae which require it, this method is very success¬
ful for most species, but requires considerable attention.
It should bo noted that larvae of many Lycaenidae arc
normally attended by ants, and may not survive in captivity
without ants being in attendance. Ants will live for a consid¬
erable p Sod if" fed with a mixture of flour and honey, together
with occasional pieces of apple. Stale food should be ronovod
regularly. Additionally, some larvae are cannibalistic, a nd may
need to be housed separately. Most will pupate more successfully
if provided at maturity with small fragments of dry bark or other
shelter.
3. Care of Pupae.
Puoae may be left on or near the foodplant, or kept in
suitable containers, which should sides rough enougn for
o nowlv-emerged butterfly to ascend without nsx of tailing.
Although perhaps not as sensitive as eggs or young larvae, most
April, 1973*
The ‘Victorian Entomologist'
pupae need protection from desiccation 5 this can be achieved by-
placing the pupae on a layer of dry cotton wool laid on slightly
damp sand. The container or breeding boo: must not be airtight
however, and it may be necessary to carefully re-dampen the sand
at intervals.
011 Some V ie t or i an Sp e cies,
Family HESPEHIIDAE
Larvae of Hesperilla and P reisplanu s spp., feeding on Gahnia,
should be sleeved out on the" foodplant (preferably container-
grown) as the leaves dry out and curl rapidly when cut, crushing-
larvae in their shelters. Larvae of H. pi cta , H, chaostola ,
H. clu?ysot r ich a and perhaps H. crypsarg yra have been found very
sensitive to ‘sic cat ion. and under some' “conditions may not
survive on G, radula or even G, sio beran a unless specially humid
conditions are created, s described earlier for rearing forest
species of Satyridae, Alternatively, a sleeved plant on which
larvae are feeding may be lightly sprayed with water during very
dry weather„ If the s.:.eeve is still wet at night however, tho
larvae may not feed. Paradoxically, although so liable to
desiccation, larvae of these or I other Hesp eri lla species, even
in the final instar, may if necessary be transferred to any
available species of Gahnia without apparent ill-effect. For
most species G- sieberana appears to be a better foodplant than
G. radu la, Butterflies of the family Hesperiidae may not lay eggs
as readily as those of the nymphalid sub-family Satyrinae.
Family PITTA'CJIDAE
Represented in Victoria by few 'permanent residents', little
experience has been obtained in means of persuading these
relatively large, active insects to oviposit. Still, warm but
not necessarily very sunny contitions appear to be desirable,
and it is suggested that attention be paid to the provision of
very evenly-lit enclosures (i.e. without a preponderance of
reflected or direct light from any one side; for these butter¬
flies .
Family PIERIDAE
Again, this family also is represented by few native species,
although the persistence of the one introduced species in gaining
access to enclosures over Eras sica crops suggests that they will
readily oviposit - confined.
Family NYMPHALIDAE
Sub-family DANAINAE
Provision of a substantial 'natural' environment is apparently
essential with the Danaids* Their habit is to perform a circling
flight of the food-plant between depositing successive eggs, and'
although most collectors have had the 'wanderer', Danaus
ple xippu s, oviposit on garden-grown Asc lep ias, few appear to have
12
April, 1973.
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
experimented with captive parent insects. Certainly, once
. larv f e , ar f obtained, they are easily raised on a growing
plant, but appear to find cut stems unacceptable,’
food
Sub-family SATYRINAE
Butterflies^of this group are probably the easiest to breed.
Host oviposit readily and the larvae of grass-feeding species
accept common grasses.
Hete ro nympha merope . 'Common Brown'
The intensive"contact method (a) has
been used to obtain eggs in the case
of all other species of this genus
listebelow. Eggs of H. merope are
(unde:- confinement at least) in groups
of up wo a dozen attached to glass
leaves. Eggs of H. penel ope, the
'Shouldered Brown 7- , are laid fairly
readily in warm sunny conditions in
the presence of common grasses, and
are relatively large and non-adhesive,
H. solandri (Solander's Brown) oviposits
readily on common grasses. Eggs are
small, green end adhesive, and appear
prone to desiccation. Eggs of
H« paradolpha (Spotted or Scarce Brown)
lays eggs very readily, even in the
confines of a triangular envelope, but¬
ane extremely prone to desiccation.
They are non-adhesive and very small.
Orei xeni ca cor reae, the Correa Brown,
similarly oviposits freely while at
rest. The eggs are green, 0,7mm in
diameter, and resinously adhesive,
sticking to any object or grass they
may contact in falling. Roared at low altitudes, larvae still
enter a diapause during May, lasting until September, when they
recommence feeding, the butterflies emerging much earlier than
in their natural environment. A second brood, raised experiment¬
ally from this early emergence, entered a faise diapause and
suffered severely from desiccation, the few survivors being
diminutive. Eggs of 0. orichora are similar in size, but non¬
adhesive and deposited while in flight,, They dehyc te rapidly
unless removed to a cool, humid enclosure, althougn the
butterfly itself will only fly while the sun is shining bright¬
ly. Method (b) was used‘with some success, and as with 0. correae
larvae enter a diapause, A second brood did not survive "the" heat
of summer, but conceivably could have, ho.d more humid conditions
been provided. Kershaw's Brown, Oreixenica kershawi, deposits
eggs sparingly on common grasses^ Ihese are similar to the eggs
of H. solandri . Both eggs and larvae are extremely susceptible
to desiccation, Argynnin a cyrila (Cyril's Brora): eggs are laid
WIRE-ERAME SETUP
SUGGESTED EOR METHODS
(a) & (b)„
April, 1973
13
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
very readily on common grasses if method (a) is apolied. Larvae
have a very low mortality rate if humidity is not too low at
the time of pupation; hence this species appears to be very
promising for experimental work, although Heteronympha merope
may be more readily available. ~ “ '
Sub-family NYMPHALINAE
Preci s vil lida (Meadow Argus). Eggs appear to be fairly readily
deposited on Plantago spp., but much less readily on Erythraea
a ustralis . They hatch in seven days in autumn, larvaeTeeding"'
and developing rapidly. It has been observed that under
natural conditions, this and other species frequently oviposit
on nearby objects rather than directly on the foodplant.
Family LYCAENIDAE
By method (a) larvae of Lamp ides bo cticus (Pea- or Lupin Blue)
Zizina otis labradu s (Clover Blue')" - ’have been reared in
considerable numbers. Gut flowers of Russell Lupin were used
for the former in lieu of a growing plant. Candalides heathi
(Rayed Blue) oviposited readily on flowers andTToliage of cut
Par a hebe , and larvae roared without loss in small polythene
bags. Warm, humid conditions were provided for the parent
insect in each instance. Larvae of Lampides boeticus were
reared in individual containers to avaid losses due to canni¬
balism. Mould may be a problem when rearing larvae normally
attended by numerous ants. The problem may be partially over¬
come but scrupulous attention to cleanliness of containers.
Washing the mid-dorsal gland of valuable larvae may be a worth¬
while experiment, and could be easily accomplished with a small
camel-hair brush.
REFERENCES
Common, I.F.B., and Waterhouse, D.F. (1972) "Butterflies of
Australia" Pp. 444-7 (Angus & Robertson 0 )
Excursion to Brisbane Ranges.
On Sunday 4 March an excursion to the Brisbane Ranges
was attended by thirteen members and friends. The meeting place
•was AnalriLe, and some time was spent collecting near here through
the morning. The next stopping place was Steiglit.z for lunch.
The afternoon was spent at two spots along the road to Bacchus
Marsh, still in the Brisbane Ranges. At the last stopping
place the butterfly Heteronympha penol ojpe (Shouldered Brown)
was found in reasonable”numbers as had been hoped, for this
locality is of interest in being intermediate between the
distribution areas of two races ( sterope and alope ) of this
species. Another highlight for the Iepidopterists "was the
sighting in this same area of what was almost certainly a
Chequered Swallowtail, Papilio demoleus sthenelus, a rare
visitor to southern Victoria.
April, 1973.
14
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
DIPTERA:
Insects collected or seen
Family BOMBYLIIDAE:
" ORTALIDAE:
HYMENOPTERA:
Family FORMICIDAE:
Family SPHECIDAE:
" POMPILIDAE:
" BRACONIDAE:
ORTHOPTERA:
Family ACRIDIDAE:
ODONATA:
Co mpostia yitta ta
1 sp. on Xanth .or rb.oe a
iI 7 - rcie cia gnlosa and other Myrmecia son.
Camp ono tu s sp.
Iridomyrmex pur pureus
1 sp. '
1 sp.
1 sp.
1 sp., m. & f.
Family GOMPHIDAE: 1 sp.
LEPIDOPTERA:
Family
Species
Notes
HESPERIIDAE
P'PILIONIDAE
PIERIDAE
NYMPHALIDAE
LY CAENIDAE
1
Dispar compacta
(Hispar Skipper)
Papilio demoleus
(Chequered Swallowtail)
Delias aganippe
(Wood V/hite)
Heteronympha merope
(Common Brown)
Heteronympha penelope
(Shouldered Brown")
Ogyris olane
(Olane Azure)
Lucia limbaria
(Small Copper")"™
Several taken
One specimen, apparently
this species, seen.
Several taken, seen.
Females not uncommon.
Moderately plentiful in
one area with H. merope.
1 or 2 flying. 1 larva,
2 pupae found on trees
bearing Amyema miquelii.
1 specimen, probably
this species, seen.
Mt. Bay/ Bay/
March 4, 1973
While others were investigating the Brisbane Ranges,
Nigel Quick made a rather hurried trip to the Baw Baw plateau,
where, in ones and twos over the past several seasons," a small
butterfly apparently identical with Neolucia math c-wi, rather
unimaginatively called Mathew's Blue, has been taken flying
with N, hobarten sis, the Mountain Blue.
Neolucia ma thewi is characteristically a near-coastal
insect, and its appearance at almost 5000 ' (1700m) is intrigue-
ing. The foodplant of the alpine insect is Monotoca sc oparia,
and that of the coastal population Monotoca elliptica.“ Prior
to the present season, only two or throe plants, liT each case
growing on or near granite boulders, had been found, and were
April, 1975*
15
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
obviously insufficient to support even a small population under
rigorous alpine conditions. The purpose of the visit was to
obtain further specimens for dissection, and to locate, if
possible, the- more substantial occurrence of Monotoca which
was presumed to exist on the mountain. Additionally it was
hoped to obtain specimens of Or e isplanus muniong a, the Alpine
Skipper, and Orei xen ica correae ('Correa Brown! for breeding
stock.
Unfortunately, it was found that seasonal variation had
dictated otherwise, and emergence of the alpine insects must
have been the better part of one month earlier than usual. Pew
butterflies of any species were in evidence — half a dozen or
so correae only were collected, 5 Neolucia hobartensis, and
just ’one N. mathew i (?), all very worn.""Normally7 0._ cor reae
would be present in countless hundreds, with a goocf"sprinkling
of Heteron ymp ha solandri amongst the snow-gums.
"The" Epa cris'bog s’, around which the Monotoca had initially
been located’,"" were followed to the summit without - finding any
additional plants. After descending into the glen on the north
side of the summit, in futile sea.rch of the Car ex swamps for
the Alpine Skipper, further endeavours were made to locate the
Mono t oca . In one area granite boulders were seen to be rather
numerous, and a search here was more fruitful. Quite a number
of plants were found, characteristically right beside or even
growing over, the boulders. Unfortunately no further specimens
of the little butterfly itself were seen, and the area will
have to be re-visited next season.
A No te from the Nort h,
In a note to Charles McCubbin, a young correspondent,
Sue Walter of "Karinya Park", Pittsworth, Q,, states:
"Today I caught a specimen of Phaedyma she ph erd! latifasc i ata
(a female)* When I catch another""! will send ’ it "‘to you for
positive identification. As they are a long way south of their
normal range, we are wondering if our unusually hot and humid
summer has any bearing on their appearance."
No mention is made of a search for possible food-plants,
but' this might be well worthwhile in view of the apparent
presence of more than a single insect.
The letter was accompanied by an annotated list of the
butterflies which have been collected by her in the area. The
list will be reproduced in the next Journal.
Aut ho rs' Il lu strati ons
The illustrations accompanying Mr. Crosby's article^proved
a severe test for our 'graphic arts department', but, although
contrast variations are extreme in the originals, these important
prints were finally reproduced with reasonable success. Illust¬
rations for future articles should be submitted as well-exposed
35mm. negatives. Author's cost is $5.00, and may be shared.
16
April, 1973 ,
Barbecue.
The 'Victorian Entomologist*
Saturday, May 26.
Weather permitting, it is'hoped this will be an enjoyable
for members and friends alike. It is not a highly-organised
af L air, and it is requested that you 'b-y-o everything (including
water) except firewood, which abounds. unciuamg
. 1 he ? ite > on - property of one of our members,
consists of iL ed Stnngybark forest along the ridge, falling to
a fern.gully some 300' below. This 20-acre area, and those
adjoining,_are still largely in primitive condition, and back on
anprox e i 500 ° n (“ 0 ^ j * 16 Kinslake Wesb National Park. Altitude is
Members — and friends — are invited to meet on the
property from noon onwards, perhaps for a picnic lunch, collect
if they will through the afternoon, and then join the others
for an early barbecue at sundown. Some interesting night-light
collecting may await those who wish to stay on later into the
evening, and there are no close neighbours to be disturbed by
those will-o 1 -thc-wisp lights.
Distance is only 37miles (approx.) from the GPO. and a
map showing approaches, with directions, is being included as
a lift-out supplementary sheet in this Journal. Admission is
by donation of 50c per person, payable at the barbecue. Proceeds
to the Society without deduction.
Pew hazards exist for youngsters, but it must be impressed
U p on »n bein - nob bo wander away, as the bush is dense in places, and
the terrain steep. No ferns or other plants may be removed or
destroyed in this conservation area.
Death _ of Norman McCance.
The death of Norman McCance on January 7th. last brought
to a close the career of one of our most colourful writers on
Natural History of recent times.
Although his.interests lay mainly in aviculture, fish- and
reptile-keeping, his long association with the Nature Notes page
in the "Weekly Times" brought him closely into touch with the
field of entomology. Here he answered the many queries forwarded
by country folk regarding insect life, frequently referring to
Arturs Neboiss and Elizabeth Matheson when in doubt.
The epitaph "He wove some thread of magic into all his
stories" which appeared as an addendum to the death notice in the
"Age", sums up the delightful prose of his writings. He had the
rare gift of bringing the most prosaic subject to life with a
sparkling humour.
Older members will remember perhaps his wrestling broad¬
casts, while others may recall his morning news sessions with the
many voices of the birds in his aviaries as a background. Sharing
a room with him in the early days of broadcasting at the A.B.C.
was indeed an experience. Those of our members who have had the
pleasure of opening parcels of insects from overseas will apprec¬
iate the excitement there was when his parcels, with such
interesting contents as live newts and frogs, arrived.
Although v/e have his enthusiastic writings on many subjects,
we will remember him for the way he has promoted an interest in
entomology in so many of both young and older members of the
community. T n T c
April, 1973 .
17 .
The 'Victorian Entomologist'
An U nusual Dar t-tail.
While collecting seed of Eucalyptus v iminalis var,
r aceaosa (Coastal variety of the Manna' Ylum")" near "Dingley, (V.)
recently, several elongate, turbinate galls were noticed on
young twigs of one tree. Two of these had already hatched (if
that is the correct term), while a third remained intact, and
was placed in a small polythene hag to prevent drying out.
Several days later it was noticed that an insect had
commenced emerging, and was busily enlarging a hole through one
side from the interior. Some two hours later the insect was
observed actually emerging, wings fully expanded and dry.
This proved to be one of the Cloonym idac (HYMENOPTERA)
belonging to the genus Dinoura (although a more valid if less
descriptive name may have* recently been applied).
Insects of the genus are characterised by the expansion
of the ovipositor into an extraordinary three-flanged structure
for all the world like the feather of an arrow or dart. This
species was a rather striking insect, being shining chestnut
brown and irridescent blue, with whitish legs, and for a gall-
wasp rather large — 12mm. in length. It flight is rather weak
and laboured.
Encouraged by this most obligingly rapid emergence of
such an intrigueing little insect, galls of other types were
collected and similarly treated, with the most gratifying
results. It appears that the slight but relatively rapid drying
even within a polythene bag may trigger emergence of these
little insects. As so little equipment is necessary for their
collection, and so few details of their early stages are yet
understood, this and related families may offer a challenge
to some of our members.
W.N.B.Q.
SERVICE TO MEMBERS
WANTED:
A COPY of R.J.Tillyard's "The Biology of Dragonflies",
(Cambridge University Press, 1917). J.F. Hutchinson,
Scoresby Horticultural Research Station, P.C. Box 174-,
Ferntree Gully. V. 3156. Phone 231-2233. (A.H. 878-2770).
VOLUNTEER T YPIST to prepare stencils for the June edition of
The~'Victorian Entomologist'. Please contact the editor.
Rate: 5c per line, available to Financial Members only. Copy
must be in the Editor's hands not later than the 20th. of the
month prior to publication. Full rates and conditions are
detailed in Vol.3: No. 1 .
Vol. 3: No.
3.
June, 1973 .
VICTORIAN ENTOMOLOGIST
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Regd. at G.P.O. Melb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the Society include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of whom receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology ,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species ,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at B p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions : $
Ordinary Member 3.00
Country Member 2.00
Associate Member 1.00
Junior or Student 1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
The statements and opinions expressed
of the respective authors, and do not
Society .
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &.c . may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
in articles herein are the responsibility
necessarily indicate the policy of the
June, 1975
The Victorian. Entomologist
CONTENTS'
Reports and Notices
General Meeting.
Council Meeting-
19 JUi4i973
2
5
Publications Committee Meeting 5
Auditor's Report 5
Notes; on Hot he and Butterflies: of the Rutherglen
district from 1967 by S'. F.McEvey 4
Excursion to: the Brisbane Ranges II (J.E.Hutchinson) 7
Miscellaneous Butterfly Record's
Migratory Butterflies in Victoria S’
Butterflies in the Sunset Country 8
Butterfly Species fron Pittsworih, Q.
by SUe Walter 9
Cleaning Stained Butterfly Specimens (F.N.B. Quick) 10
The statements; and opinions expressed in this Journal
are- those of the authors concerned, and do not neces¬
sarily reflect the opinions or policies of the Society.
No article appearing in this Journal nay be reproduced
elsewhere without prior permission of the author.
June, 1973
1 .
The Victorian Entomologist
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President:
Tr C.W.FcCubbin, S Fanniche Ave, Vox Hill North, V. 3129.
Phone 89 9171
Vice-Pres. s I T r W. IT. B. Quick, 20 Alimar Rd, Glen Waverley, V. 3150.
Phone 360 8145
Hon. Sec.: Mr S. McEvey, 5 Gissing St., Blackburn Sth, V. 3130
Phone 878 4724
Hon. Treas.: Hr R. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth, V. 3129
Phone unavail.
Hon. Editor-: Hr A.D.Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd, Hitcham, V. 3132
Phone 874 Cl 19
Hon. Librarian ) Mr J.E.Hutchinson, Scoresby Hort. Res. Stn,
P.R. Officer ) N Box 174, Ferntree Gully, V. 315B
Phone 231 2233
Diary of Coming Events * ’ , . „ .
June 22nd, 1973. General meeting. Hr H.B.Wilson, Senior Entomo¬
logist, Plant Res. Inst., on "Insect Telergones
and Pheromones".
July excursion ,. Date to be fixed at June meeting. Phillip Is.
One aim will be to locate over-wintering area
of Wanderer butterfly ( Dana us plexippus j '
Subsequent general meetings : Aug. 24th,OctT9th,Dec.T 4 th.
COUNCIL rDBTIHGS'
7.30 p.m. July 13, Sept I 14, Nov. 9, at Clunies-Ross House
EXCURSIONS
July : See above.
Fid-October : Inglewood (Whipstick Scrub).
November: (Cup Weekend). Big Desert.
bate November : Mt. JTacedon.
Christmas-New Year- : Suggan-Buggan.
Late January. 1974: Extended trip to East Gippsland sub-trop¬
ical rain-forest and Cape Everard.
I 'id-Febrruary, 19T4 : Inglewood (’Whipstick S’crub).
June, 1973
2 . *
'"Tie Victorian Entomologist
Reports and notices
GSI'IERAE MEETING : Friday, April 27th, 1973, at Clunies-Poss House.
The President, Mir C.W.McCubbin, chaired the meeting, which
was attended by 38 members and friends. A special welcome was
extended to the Catheme family and Mr P. Carwardine. Apologies
were received from Messrs. A.Norton, ST.Quack, j.c.Ie Sbudf, and'
0.Rogge, and from Misses E.Matherson and IT.Malcolm.
Correspondence was received from:
I . Hr A. J.Frazer, requesting Volume 1 of the Victorian Entomologist
and continuations.
2. United Melbourne Freeway Action Group, requesting our attend¬
ance and support at their functions , etc.
3. The Save Westerfold Committee enclosing a petition and pertin¬
ent information on planned freeways.
4. Circular of the Entomological S'ociety of Australia (F.S'.WV),
March, 1973, ho. 231.
5. Circular of the Entomological S'ociety of Australia (H.S'.W.),
April 1973, Ho. 232.
6 : . Copies (forwarded by the librarian, Mr J.F.Hutchinson) of a
detailed list of early papers on moth taxonomy presented to
the library by Hr R.Condron. Tabled.
T. Auditor’s Report of Statement of Receipts.
8 . TIEG Newsletter Vol. 7, Fos 213.
10.Entomological Society of Queensland Hews Bulletin He. 93,
Feb., 1973
II .Entomological Sbc. of Old, Hews Bull. Ho. 94, March, 1973.
Exhibits
G’.Clark: Butterflies andVother insects from the Sorrento area,
including an adult of the butterfly Polyura pyrrhus
semuronius (Tailed Emperor) taken at Posebud.
C.MeOubMn: Butterflies and' bees collected during a visit to
England in 1972.
SolIcEvey: A pair of the butterfly Danaus chrysippus pet ilia
(Lesser Wanderer) and' a probable specimen of the
skipper Ocybad’istes walkeri sothis (Yellow-banded
Dart) collected at Rutherglen on 23rd March, 1973.
Speaker
The speaker was Dr G'.Ettershank, the topic being "Ants and ' ^
General Entomology of Few Mexico". In a talk illustrated with
slides, Dr Ettershank first discussed the land forms and general
geography of Hew Mexico and then talked about the arthropod fauna,
including Harvester .hits, Sun Spiders, Whip Scorpions and scor¬
pions, and the flora.
June, 1973'
General Business
The Victorian Entomologist
2
1. The Treasurer reported a financial standing of $83.40, and a
total of 60 financial members.
2. Mr P. Hall garden moved that the Auditor’s Report, which was
tabled, be published in the June issue of the Victorian Ento¬
mologist. The motion was carried.
3. As formal notice is required for nestings about constitutional
changes, notice was formally given that the June general meet¬
ing shall be preceded by an Extraordinary General Meeting at
7.30 p.m. on the same evening "(dune 22 nd, 19737".
4. Mr A. Bishop moved that advertisements in the journal, the
Victorian Entomologist, be accepted from bona fide commercial
breeders- only (in respect of advertisements of insects for
sale)'. This- motion was seconded by Mr R. Condron.
C QUITO IE MEETING Hay 11th. 1973
1. It' was proposed to postpone the excursion to Phillip Island
until July 7 to enable arrangements to be made at' the June
general meeting.
2. As a means of raising money and broadening the Society’s pub¬
licity, it was suggested by Mr U.McCubbin that a few members
might make some Christmas cards with a set of copies he has
of a painting of the Imperial White f Delias harpalyce ). With
a card backing and' a printed greeting etc It Is hoped that
they could be sold to members and friends. It was 'proposed
that a notion be put to the next general meeting •
3. As general meetings are now held at CIunies-Ross House it is
hoped that films from CSTRO and other organisations can be
shown. Various films were discussed as possibilities for future
meetings.
PUBEICATI0W 8 COMMITTEE MEETING May 18th, 1973
The matter of exchange and free copies’ of the Victorian Entomology
ist was discussed. It was decided that the journal should be sent
free to national and state libraries and state museums requesting
subscriptions .
AUDITOR’S' REPORT
To the Members of the Sbciety '
I have examined the statement of receipts and payments for
the year ending 31st December 1972 and have obtained all the in¬
formation that I have required.
In my.opinion the statement summarises fairly the financial
transactions of the Society.
J.I. Collyor A.A.S'.A.
4
June., 197? The Victorian Entomologist
Ifotes on Moths and Butterflies in the Rutherglen District from 1967
by S.F.McEvey*
Rurtherglen is situated in the north-east of Victoria, border¬
ing the Murray River about 4? Ion west of Wbdonga (see maps). A-
broad outline of its ecology, including vegetation and climate,
can be found in HcEvey, A.R. (1965)'.
Three major ho.bita.ts can be found' in the district. They are
dry sclerophyll forest, swamp woodland, and a mixture of grassland,
savannah and woodland. In addition to this natural vegetation,
other habitats include introduced trees and shrubs in the local
park and orchards and gardens in the township.
The district in which most observations were made falls
within the 20"-25" rainfall region. Rutherglen's wet season is
from March to October; thus the winters are cold and wet and the
summers hot and dry.
The notes* forming the basis of this article are from observ¬
ations na.de on occasional visits to the district since 1967 7 , and
therefore give only a limited picture of the lepidoptera found
there.
* 5 Gissing Street, Blackburn S’outh, Victoria, ?1?0
5 .
June, 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
hist of Butterflies and Moths Taken or Observed
Zanily- -
Species
Ilote s
PAP 11I0FIDA1
Papilio. anactus;
(Dingy Swallowtail)'
Common. In the township
area, there are many un¬
sprayed citrus trees suit¬
able for Breeding. On one
orange- tree about 2 m high
59 larvae and eggs' were
found.
Pa.pilio aegeus aegeuss
(Orchard' Butterfly)
10 adults were seen on 15
and 14 February, 1971 • In
1972 a female was caught.
Papilio demoleus sthen-
A single specimen was seen
elus
(Chequered? Swallowtail)
on 2 Fovenbor, 19GB.
FIMPRAIIDAE
Vanessa itea
(Australian Admiral)
Common.
| .
V. kershawi
(Australian Painted
lady)
Very common. ■ Cape Weed
(Cryptosterna) is also
very comnon but I have not
noticed 1 this species
breeding in Rutherglen. •
i
Precis, villid'a calyhe
(Meadow Argus)
Very comnon. I found a
larva' during Its pre-r pupal
stage, of this species,
close to a clump of Plan-
tago in March 1975*
D'anaus chrysippus pet-
ilia (lesser Wanderer)
D. plexippus
(Wanderer)
I have seen this species
at Ruthorglon during May
I960 .and in March 1975. At
both tines- only a few were :
S G Oil o
In March 1967 the Wanderer
was very comnon at Albury
(F.S.Yf.), but at the sane
tine none were seen at
Rutherglen. On 28 Feb. 1970
several specimens wore
taken at Rutherglen.
. L
Bfeteronyiipha: nerope
nerope (Common Brown)
Fairly common.
Acraea andronacha
andronacha
(G1 a.s swing)
Six Glasswings were seen
on 15 Feb. 1972. See
JIcFvey, S.F. (1971)
FIBRIDAB
Delias aganippe
(Wood White)
Common-. Often I have seen
this species flying: around
the tops of Currajong
(Brachychiton) tre es.
&
June, 1973' The Victorian Entomologist
list of Butterflies; and Moths Taken or 1 Observed, contd .
Fail 11 y
Species
Botes
FIERIDAE
Dellas harpalvce
(Imperial Write)
One specimen observed!, at
Rutherglen on T March 1970.
Anaphaeis .iava teutonic
S'onetines extremely common.
(Caper Yfliite)
Pleris rapae
(Cabbage Vflilte)
Very common.
EYCAENIDAE
Eenpides beeticus.
(Pea Blue)
Common on flowering
BUddleia
Hacaduba biocellata
• biocellata
(Double-spotted
lineblue)
Fairly common.
HESPERIIDAE
Ocyhadistes walkeri
sotbis. (?)
(Yellov/—banded Dart)
Two specimens collected on
a lavender bush, on 25
March 1973.
AGARISTIDAE
Cruria donovani
Dot common. I have found
this species mere common¬
ly in the Chiltem Hills,
13 kn east of Rurtherglen.
Concerns behri
(Day Moth]
Fairly common.
Phalaenoldes. glycine
(Vine Motb)
Very common.
SATURBIIDAE
Antheraea eucalypti
Common.
(Gun Enperor Main)
ARCTIIDAE
1 'Iyctemera arnica
Fairly common.
Btetheisa sp.
(Fairy Moth)
Very common on the lake
Mood'emere "flats" (Red
Gun swamp woodland)
NOCTUIDAE
Dasypod'ia selenophora
Occasional specimens seen
(Old Eady Moth)'
1
GEOMETRIDAE
Chlorocoma sp.
(Emerald)
Common.
REFEREBCES 1
McEvey, A.R. (1-965"} "The Bird's of the Rutherglen District".
i-5 r 6.
McEvey, S‘.F., ' 1971) "Interesting Records for Victoria".
Victorian Entonologist 2_( 5 ), p. 8 .
7
June, 1977 The Victorian Entomologist
Excursion to the Brisbane Ranges II (Dragonflies )
This is a supplementary list to that which appeared in Vol.7
No.2 of the Victorian Entomologist. It lists some Odonata taken
and notes on the species.
ZTGOPTERA
LESTIDAE: SYMPECMAT'INAE
Ausfrolestes annulosus (S'elys)
Austreles tes is the only Australian genus of the family. A. annuLo-
sus is a dark insect generally, Black to Bronze marked with poie
Blue. It has a wingspan of about 35 nn and an overall length of
40 nn. It is widely distributed over the southern part of the con¬
tinent, excepting South Australia, and locally common. Larvae are
able to tolerate temporary water or permanent still water. Adults
lay eggs on weed's and are on the wing fron November to April.
AMISOPTERA
AESHNIDAE: ANACTINAE
Fenian ax papuensis (Bumeister)
A robust insect with a, light brown thorax and a striped black and
yellow abdomen, .a wingspan of about 100 nn and' an overall length
of 70 nn. It is found over Australia generally and New Zealand.
Eggs; are laid on weeds- in still water or slow rivers. Adults, are on
the wing fron July to April.
CORDULIIDAE: CORDULIINAE
HoniccrdUla tau Solys
Ha's two stripes on the thorax, a "black stripe along the dorsal
surface of the abdomen and around the abdominal segments; otherwise
it is yellow. Larvae of this species are able to tolerate a large
variety of water types; thus it is a widely distributed species.
Adults lay eggs on leaf litter and in weeds and are on the wing
fron October to April. The wingspan is 70 nn and' tho overall length
is 50 nn. This species sometimes migrates in swarms.
LIBELLULIDAE: . SYIiPETRINAE
Diplacodos- bipunefata (Brauor) and D. haomatod.es
Both species have a sandy yellow thorax, and a yellow and black ab¬
domen, plus a small area of diffuse yellow on tho baso of tho hind¬
wing in tho male. The species are separated from each other on wing
venation and tho shape of the abdomen.
They are widespread and common spocies found throughout Austra¬
lia and beyond ("East Indonesia, New Guinea, and New Zealand). Larvae
arc able to tolerate a wide range of water types. Adults lay eggs
on woods- and in litter and' aro on tho wing fron September to April.
Bbth have a wingspan of about 45 nn and an overall length of
35 nn.
REFERENCES'
Eraser, F.C. (I960) A Handbook of tho Dragonflies of Australia
(Royal Zoological Society of N.S'.W.; Sydney)
S'
June, 1977 The Victorian Entomologist
Watson, J.A.L. (1962) The Dragonflies (Od'onata) of South-western
Australia (Western Australian Naturalists r
Club Handbook No. 7) (W.A. Nat. Club: Perth)
Watson, J.A.L. (1969) Taxonomy, Ecology and Zoogeography of Dragon¬
flies (Odonata) from the North-west' of Western
Australia. Au-st J, Z.'ool . 17 : 67-112.
J.P.Hutchinson
Miscellaneous- Butterfly Records'
Migratory Butterflies in Victoria
The following is an extract from a letter to Charles McCubbin from
Mr M. Schwarz:
"on the 6. iv.77 I was surprised to see two specimens of Danaus-
chrysippus petilia. in the JCyneton High School grounds aTJ
lunchtime.
On the same day Anaphacls .java teiitonia was also present and
wa.s by far the most' common butterfly around', I also noted two
specimens of Hurona smilax during the sane tine.
All these butterflies were in reasonably good condition, and
were, without exception, travelling due east; I had only half
an hour to observe this during lunchtime. The weather became
increasingly worse and during the following day it rained con¬
tinuously o "
The mention of large numbers of Ana.phc.eis .java at ICyneton is.of
considerable interest, because this species, usually common in
Melbourne in early summer, last season(1972-J) apparently did not'
reach Melbourne at all, at least in any numbers; this species was,
however, locally common in the Grampians in early November 1972,
and one or two specimens were connected in the Victorian Alps
during the summer. By contrast, Eurema smilax appears to have been
somewhat more common in Melbourne this autumn than usual.
Butterflies sighted in the Sunset Country. Easter 1977.
The following sightings, were made by Charles McCuibMn in the Sunset
Country, 20 miles due north of ] Turrayville;
Anaphaeis .java teutonic (Pieridae) common: males and females.
Danaus chrysippus petilia (Ny lphalidao: Dhnalnae) one female taken.
D. plexippus (NynphaliJac: Danainae) One seen.
Precis' vfllida calybo (Nynphalidae: Nymphalinae) not uncommon,
Vanessa ker'shawi TNymphalidae: Nymphalinae) not uncommon.
V. itea (Nymohalidao? Nymphalinae)' not uncommon; no sign of food-
*“ " ~ plant found.
Zizina otis labradus (Lycaenidae:Lycacninae) very common and wide¬
spread, especially near cleared country.
9
The Victorian Entomologist
June, 1973.
Butterfly Species from Pittsworth ,
By Sue Walter. +
Ocyb ad istes wa l keri sothis
Papilio anactus
Papilio aegeus aegeus
Papilio demoleus s thenelus
Cressida cressida cressida
Gatopsilia pyranthe crokera
Eurema hecabe phoebu s
Eurema smilax
Delias ag anippe
Delias nigrina
s n^sa nysa
Anaphaeis ,iava te utonia
Cepora periraale scyllara
Pieris rapae
El odina parthia
Manaus plexippus
Taken fairly commonly throughout
the year.
Mainly December. Larvae on C itrus
in February.
Larvae on C itrus in Febi’uary. On
Jan. 20 this year I saw a female
lay an egg on Gei,jera parvif lora
(Wilga). The egg took five days
to hatch. Young larvae are banded
with brown and white, and have
two rows of spines.
Appears from October.
Appears during September.
Found larvae on Cassia . Pupated
three days later. On the fifth
day as a pupa, they started to
'twitch'. Hatched after eight
days.
Taken throughout the year.
Fairly rare, taken during Sept.,
October, and November.
August to October. Rare.
Fairly common. Foodplant
Loranthus (Amyema) gaudichaudii .
On~Tanuary 20 this yearl saw a
number of this species, all males,
on Heterode ndrum oleaefol ium which
was" inter grown 15y a small-flowered
Wild Jasmine and Pandorea pandor-
ana (Wonga vine). On ?. pand erana
T~found a number of pupae. I also
noticed that the plant had been
eaten by something. I found no
larvae, but I think it could have
been eaten by the larvae of A. ~ j ■
te utonia. Also on Capparis mitch -
elli ._
Taken from December. Larvae on
Cap paris mitchelii.
CbtfeHTht^ghout the year, larvae
feeding on Cabbage, Cauliflower
and Brussels Sprouts.
Fairly common.
Throughout the year. Larva found
on As clepias frutic osa May 7, 1972
at Flagstone Greek", T9 miles from
Toowoomba, Q.
10
June, 1973.
The ’Victorian Entomologist'
Danaus chrysipous p etilia
Danaus hamata h amata
E uploea core c orinna
Ifyp olimna s ~ b o1ina nerina
V anessa k ershawi
Vanessa Itea
Precis villida calybe
P reci s orithya albicincta
Acraea an droaachn
frfy-pocysta 'pseud irius
Ogyris amaryllis meridionalis
Ogyris ba rhardi barn ardi
Luc ia limbaria
Prosotas ~ felderi
Lampides boetfeus damoetes
Sizina otisTTabradus
Pound larvae on Asclepia s
fruticosa Jan. 19737 Larvae
are black with white stripes and
two rows of yellow dots. There are
a pair of fleshy processes on the
second, sixth and twelfth segments.
Pupae: green or fawn with a gold
abdominal line underlined with
black. The groan ones have gold
thoracic spots. Hatched after 7
days. All males.
On the wing from January.
Larvae feed on Nerium (Oleander).
Fairly common.
Appears November. Fairly rare.
Throughout the year.
One specimen taken January 3, 1973*
Fairly rare. Appears December.
During September.
Two specimens. October.
One specimen. January 24, 1973.
One specimen. October.
One specimen. January 17, 1973
^ The above notes were compiled by Sue V/alter, "Karinya Park",
Pittsworth, Q., and are additional to the record ( Victorian
Entomologist Vol. 3: No. 2, April ? 1973, p.15«) for Phaedyma
shopherdi latifa sc iat a. The list is not intended to represent a
comprehensive coXlection, and it is expected that additional
names, particularly Iycaenids, will be added before long.
Clean ing Stained Butterf ly Sp ec imens.
Stains on the wings of butterfly specimens, especially
Lycaenidae (Blues) which have been relaxed for lengthy periods,
are unsightly and often difficult to remove. The following has
proved a reliable method of reducing or completely removing such
stains on set specimens.
1 . With a very soft camelhair brush, lightly but thoroughly swab
stained area with clean water. Dry brush on a tissue, and use
to remove surplus water. Repeat twice and allow to dry,
2. Immerse in clean chloroform for twenty minutes. Carefully
remove, and allow to dry.
3. Swab any remaining stain with clean methanol. Immersion, if
necessary, must not exceed two minutes. Dry gently & reset.
— W.N.B. Quick.
11
June, 1973. Advertisements.
The ’Victorian Entomologist
QUEENSLAND BUTTERFLY
Long Road, Nth. Tamborine, Qld. 4272. Australia
SPECIMENS OF AUSTRALIAN & OVERSEAS BUTTERFLIES FOR SALE
A wide range of Australian species are
bred on our farm and available as eggs
pupae or papered specimens.
Papered specimens of butterflies are imported from most
parts of the world.
Also available - Seeds of host plants.
WRITE FOR CATALOGUE.
§ggsa«
IS
tea-
NORTHWARD BOUND
Some recommended accomodation for entomologists —
and others heading north.
Country Club Motel ....Dubbo, NSW.
Quiet, luxury accomodation. Intimate cocktail bar.
Superbly prepared and presented meals in the relaxed
atmosphere of a first-rate bistro. Childrens' menu.
Hosts: Tony and Gay Gardiner. A Flag motel.
Motel Car dx ^ell .... Cardwell, N.Qld.
Roughly"100 miles north of Townsville. Comfortable,
quiet and well-ventilated units. Six-acre site offers
family cabins and caravan park, spacious lawns, and
pool. Superb views of Hinchinbrook Island from the
cleap, sandy beach. Licensed restaurant across street.
Hosts: Jack and Nella Bocca. Phone 66-8636.
Bullock Bell Motor Inn....Kuranda, N. Qld.
T&eally situate"f on the forest edge. Birdwings and
Ulysses float tantalisingly past, but hosts Howard
and June Jones request no garden collecting. Low-
tariff, family units available. Museum. Nature trail.
rt r. 70 i,
V U/
Vol. 3: No. 4 . August
1973.
VICTORIAN
I '
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Reed, at G.P.O. Melb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
40c
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the Society include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of whom receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology ,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species ,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at 8 p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions:
s
Ordinary Member
3.00
Country Member
2.00
Associate Member
1.00
Junior or Student
1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &.c. may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
The statements and opinions expressed in articles herein are the responsibility
of the respective authors, and do not necessarily indicate the policy of the
Society .
The Victorian Entomologist
CONTENTS
Page
Office Bearers & Diary of Coming Events 1
Reports and Notices:
General Meeting 2
Council Meeting 3
Publications Committee Meeting 3
Excursion Report to Phillip Island, by W„N.B. Quick 4
History of the Entomological Society of Victoria,
Part 1, by Susan Beattie 6
Insects as Food, by J.F. Hutchinson 10
Toxidea andersoni, a note 11
The Hymenoptera, Part 3> by RoH. Besserdin 12
Articles Needed 16
Advertisements 17
-00O00-
No article appearing in this Journal may be
reproduced elswhere without prior permission
of the author and the editor.
r '■
July, 1973
The Victorian Entomologist
1
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President:
Mr. C.W. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill North, V. 3129*
Phone 89 9171
Vice-Pres.: Mr. W.N.B. Quick, 20 Alimar Ed., Glen Waverley, V. 3150.
Phone 560 8145
Hon. Sec.: Mr. S. McEvery, 5 Gissing St., Blackburn Sth., V. 3130.
Phone 878 4724
Hon. Treas.: Mr. R. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth., V. 3129
Phone unavailable
Hon. Editor: Mr. A.D. Bishop, 5 Warnes Rd., Mitcham, V. 3132*
Phone 874 6119
p T-iHutchinson, Scoresby Hort. Res. Stn., Box 174
P H office^ 11 ( Fe^tree Gully, V. 3156.
P.R. Officer ( phon8 231 2233
Diary of Coining Events
August 24th, 197 3. General meeting, Clunies-Ross House.
Subsequent General meetings : October 19th and December 14th, 1973'
COUNCIL MEETINGS .
September 14th and November 9th, 7*30 p.m.
EXCURSIONS .
Mid-October : Inglewood (Whipstick Scrub).
November : (Cup weekend) Big Desert.
Late November : Mt. Macedon.
Christmas - New-Year : Suggan-Buggan.
Late January, 197 4*. Extended trip to East Gippsland sub-tropical
rain forest and Cape Everard.
Mid-February, 1974? Inglewood (Whipstick Scrub).
:" r T; r. • -
, -1".-i"’; -f ' i
.
- - 1 .
...
mm" -nMuo'. lo »«KJ
~ \ ;• • •
. : •- ,
i
;
"
July, 1973
The Victorian Entomologist
- 2 -
REPORTS AND NOTICES
GENERAL MEETING : Friday, June 22nd, 1973, at Clunies-Ross house.
The Vice-President Mr. N. Quick chaired the meeting which was attended by
33 members and friends. A special v/elcome was extended to friends and new
members. Apologies were received from Messrs. C. McCubbin, D. Crosby, 0.Rogge,
R. Pound, Mrs. J.C. LeSouef and Misses E. Matheson, H. White and L. White.
Members were sorry to learn that Mrs. LeSouef's absence resulted from an
accident causing a broken arm, and wished her a speedy recovery.
Correspondence was received from:
1. Mr. Jeffrey Bunn requesting information regarding membership.
2. The Secretary of the Australian Entomological Society, Dr. P.B. Carne,
seeking concurrence with the Executive's decision to replace
Dr. G-.H.S. Hooper by appointing Dr. J. Nolan as Business Manager and
the intention of the Executive to appoint Dr. R.L. hatching as
Treasurer following the resignation of Mr. R.T.G. Greaves.
3 . The Australian Entomological Society enclosing formal notice of the
9th and 10th Council Meetings to bo held in Western Australia on 11th
and 12th August, 1973* An 'Appointment of Proxy' slip was also enclosed.
Exhibits:
Mr. G. McConnell: Butterflies collected in Northern Queensland, including
specimens from. Cairns, Bingil Bay and Townsville.
Mr. M. Schwarz: Bees and butterflies from England.
Speaker :
Mr. H.B. Wilson owing to a recent illness, was not able to give his talk
to the Society on "Insect Telergones and Pheromones". However, it is
hoped that he may still speak at a later meeting. He forwarded an apology
to the members.
Mr. A. Neboiss, who very kindly prepared his talk at short notice, spoke
in Mr. H.B. Wilson's place. His very interesting topic was "Caddis Flies".
Mr. A. Neboiss covered the life cycle and collecting techniques for many
species. His talk has certainly inspired us to give closer attention to
these insects.
General Business:
1. The Treasurer reported a financial standing of $ 88 . 32 , with a total of
72 financial members.
2. For the purpose of voting on amendments to the constitution, the first
part of the meeting was declared an Extraordinary General Meeting.
It was proposed at the March Council meeting that the following amend¬
ments and additions be made to the constitution.
Section 5: Terminate first sentence by adding the words "with the
approval of a General Meeting".
Section 7(h): Amend the phrase "...and eight other councillors" to
read "...and up to eight other councillors".
Section 9: Under "The News Editor shall" add
"(e)Be appointed by the Council and in turn the Publications Committee
is to be co-opted by the Editor to the approval of the Society's Council,
(f) Together with the Publications Committee shall accept responsibility
for content, format and costing of the Journal, with the obligation to
refer contraversial matters to General Meetings".
July, 1973
General Busines s (Cont'd.):
- 3 -
The Victorian Entomologist
These amendments and additions were passed at the General Meeting and the
Constitution is thereby modified accordingly.
3- In addition to the office bearers installed at the last Annual General
Meeting another two councillors have been elected. At the Annual
General Meeting Mr. Ray Manskie. proposed Mr. R. Condron, seconded
Mr. J. Hutchinson, and Mr. A. Neboiss,proposed Mr. D. Holmes, seconded
Mr. J.C. LeSouef, were nominated but not voted to the posts of
councillors. To right this, Mr. R. Manskie and Mr. A. Neboiss were
voted onto the Council at the June General meeting.
4. The motion moved by A.Bishop and seconded by R. Condron at the April
General meeting, that advertisements in the journal,'The Victorian
Entomologist', be accepted from bona fide commercial breeders only,
was put to the vote and carried at the Meeting.
COUNCIL MEETING, July 10th , 1973 -
1. The retiring president of the Australian Entomological Society was
appointed our proxy for their 9th and 10th Council Meetings.
2. It was suggested by the Council that on meeting nights when there
is no speaker, it would be of interest to members to have a number
of slides shown. Members are therefore invited to bring to such
meetings up to six slides that vrould be of general interest.
3* Discussions on formulating a policy for dates for paying subscrip¬
tions and the issues of the journal covered by such payment.
The subscriptions are due on January 1st of each year. Subscriptions
received from new members during a year will entitle that member to
receive "The Victorian Entomologist" for the whole of that year.
An overdue subscription will be indicated by a red spot on the journal.
Posting of the journal to overdue subscribers will cease with the
issue for April, v/hich will be marked as above.
4 . Excursion cc-ortinator. Following a suggestion by Mr. N. Quick, it
wes agreed that an Excursion co- rdinator be appointed for each month
to act as a source of information on current field trips. Members
planning excursions will be invited to advise the co-ordinator, who
would then be able in turn to advise enquiring members what
excursions are taking place on a particular date. Details will be
finalised at the next General Meeting.
PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING , July 20th, 1973-
1. It was discovered that the Queensland Entomological Society had not been
receiving "The Victorian Entomologist" this year, and it was decided that
this error should be rectified by sending all the 1973 issues.
•2. The Editor reported on the decisions of the Council meeting affecting "The
Victorian Entomologist" ’see 'Council Meeting', item 3 above) >
3 . It was decided to communicate with "Banjora" of the "Weekly Times", fol¬
lowing up the suggestion made by her of having part of 'The Victorian
Entomologist" reserved for listing of juniors not in the Society, who
wish to get in contact with others with similar interests.
July, 1973
- 4 -
The Victorian Entomologist
EXCURSION TO PHILLIP ISLAND, 15TH JULY, 1973-
A midwinter's day in southern Victoriam must rank as one of the most un¬
likely occasions for an outing. Sometimes, just sometimes though, such
excursions, because of their lack of precedent perhaps, prove not only enjoy¬
able but profitable. The July excursion to the south-western corner of Philip
Island was just such an occasion.
From sunrise the day was mild, and between 10 and 10.30 a.m. some 18 mem¬
bers and friends assembled at the Tooradin rendezvous. Swan Lake, in the
Summerlands area of the island, was our destination, where Asclepias rotundi -
folia (one of the introduced "Cotton-bushes") was reported to have naturalised.
Here we intended to check the plants for possible evidence of a permanent
southern colony of Danaus plexippus - the Wanderer butterfly.
The area, at which we arrived soon after midday, is essentially one of coastal
sand dunes and shallow, reedy, estuarine inlets. Substantial grass cover on
the dunes remains, indicating a more or less stable dune formation, and nume¬
rous sheltered hollows and dips provide protection from the worst winds Bass
Strait can produce.
Behind the primary dunes, extensive grazing has given rise to considerable
weed invasion, and infestation by garden escapees. Amongst the latter,
Asclepias rotu ndifolia doubtless originated. Its wind-borne seeds would quickly
colonise suitable sections of the broken soil of the mutton-bird rookeries.
Access to the dunes, a matter of perhaps only a few hundred metres distant,
incorporated a number of unexpected hazards. Doubtless approach from the
beach would have been more reasonable. The first of these diversions, a small
swampy rivulet through thickets of Melaleuca ericifolia , was bordered on the
far bank by an incredible mass of the so-called ’New Zealand Spinach 1 ,
Totragonia expan sa. This was supported on a framework of decayed Melaleuca
branches, all very intriguing to the youngsters, whose weight it would reli¬
ably support. Others were not all so fortunate. While some ingenious approaches
to the problem of getting body and gear across the stream were successful, it
proved just too easy to plummet straight through the Tetragonia canopy into
the blanc-mange-like morass beneath.
In this swampy section an unfamiliar Stinging Nettle ( Urtica sp.) with
greatly elongated foliage, was noticed, with several larval 'tents' of Vanessa
itca (Australian Admiral) in evidence.
Once across this section, and out of the Tetragonia , a derelict mutton-
bird rookery slowed progress to a cautious pace. Here the more familiar
introduced Stinging Nettle ( Urtica ureas) abounded. By inserting one foot
in a disused mutton-bird burrow, and falling headlong (or thereabouts) to the
ground, several members were afforded a better position from which to examine
the plants closely. A number of larvae of Vanessa itea in various stages,
were obtained from these.
The main party had meanwhile moved on to a patch of the Asclepias which
had been seen through binoculars, growing on a dune directly ahead. The plants,
on the northernmost side of the slope, were in remarkably lush condition for
this time of the year, and many were in full flower. Their stature, reduced
to. 50-60 cms in height, with a considerably greater expanse, reflected the
rigorous weather conditions sometimes encountered.
y ’ ■ L "'^ The Victorian Entomologist
It took very few minutes to verify that a weak although viable colony of
the butterfly did in fact exist in the area. A couple of eggs were collected,
larvae were present in various instars, and several pupae were found.
Apparently fresh pupal shells suggested that some adults may have emerged
quite recently. This was shortly verified when several still soft adults
were seen drying their wings in the weak sun.
A number.of dead or moribund larvae and pupae were also noticed. It
is possible that some infection ma;^ have been primarily resDonsible, yet it
seems more likely that the winter cold, and the inescapable process of natural
selection, may have played a part.
Mild as the day had remained, it was still midwinter, and some sense
of disbelief arose at the sight of a number of adult butterflies flying
over the dunes, only to be buffeted by the sharp winds back into the hollows
or into the lee of a shrubby Heliohrysum cinereum . In spite of their presence
there was no sign of any over-wintering 'clustering 1 which had been half
expected. This was a normal, if weak, breeding colony.
A further surprise was the capture by Tony Bishop of one Neolucia
ser£entata (Chequered Blue). Through the warmer months, this inconspicuous
little butterfly is widespread in its occurrence, and particularly frequent
both inland and on the coast, wherever any of the Saltbushes are growing. *
The species extends into some of the wildest Tasmanian coastal areas, and it
is quite reasonable that it has sufficient tolerance to cold to be on the
wing, if unobserved, throughout the year.
Returning to where the cars had been left, a number of members had a
final foray amongst the frequent clumps of Lamandra longifolia scattered
through the coastal titree. Trap ezites eliena , a skipper seldom seen on the
wing although relatively abundant in coastal areas, was found to be well
established, larvae once more being found in a variety of stages, indicating
a prolonged spring emergence pattern. 6 .
WcNoB. Quick.
- 00 O 00 -
July, 1973
- 6 -
The Victorian Entomologist
HISTORY OF THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF VICTORIA. PART 1.
Compiled by Susan Beattie.
An inaugural meeting was held at the home of Mr. F.E. Wilson on the
5th April, 1927.
Present were Mr. Wilson, elected President Mr. T. Greaves, elected
Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. C. Barrett, elected Chairman, and Rev. Nye,
Mr. Deane, Mr. Davey, Mr. Blackwood, Mr. Roger, Mr. Borch, Mr. Robertson
and Mr. Clark.
It was decided that the new Club be 'The Entomological Club', that
meetings would be held on the first Tuesday of the month, and that subscrip¬
tions w T ould be 5/- per annum.
The first general meeting was held at the home of Mr. C. Barrett, May 2,
1927 at which lobmembers attended. As subsequent meetings were held at the
homes of various members, a Chairman was elected at each meeting, usually the
host at whose home the meeting was being held.
A decision was made that 7 official recorders be appointed for each
order of insects and that a survey should be taken of a specific district e.g.
Ferntree Gully. It was also decided to read a paper at each meeting prepared
by a member, and that entomological 'rambles' would be held at frequent inter¬
vals throughout the year.
The Club year commenced with 11+ members and membership had increased to
26 by the end of the year. These members included Miss Wise, Mr. V. Miller,
Mr. Rayment, Mr. Parlett, Mr. Strong, Mr. Nilson, Rev. A. Westly, Mr. A. Wade,
Mr. B. Smith, Mr. A. Brown, Miss Raff. During the first year, 11 monthly
meetings were held, the average attendance being 16 and seven papers were read.
Mr. Rayment spoke on 'Parasites of the Bees', Mr. A. Burns spoke on Sugar-Cane
pests, Mr. F.E. Wilson spoke on 'Collecting on the Bogong High Plains' and 4
excursions were held to Plenty River at Eltham, to Ferntree Gully, to Mt. Evelyn
and to Sandringham.
As the Club membership increased and to give the Club more of a public
image, it was decided to hold quarterly meetings in an outside hall, whilst
still holding the other monthly meetings at members' homes. The Victorian
Horticultural Society Hall was chosen for this purpose.
May 1929 saw the decision to hold the monthly meetings at a central place
in the city. Latham House (Swanston St.) was chosen and 3 new officers were
decided on, these being Vice-President (Mr. H. Miller), Treasurer (Mr. B.Black¬
wood) and Hon-. Correspondent (Mr. C. Borch).
1929-30 saw the membership increase from 2J to 35 members. 7 excursions
were held and members gave talks on collecting trips or read a prepared paper
at meetings.
At the May 1930 meeting the following office-bearers were elected:
President - Mr. Rayment
Vice-President - Mr. V. Miller
Hon. Secretary - Mr. T. Greaves
Press Correspondent - Mr. Borch
- 7 -
Jiiiy> 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
May 1930 it was decided to change the name of the Club to 'The Entomolo¬
gist's Club of Victoria' and that a sub—committee of 3 be appointed to
organize the work of compiling a catalogue of the Insect fauna of Victoria
with Mr. Clark.
September 1930 saw the retirement of Mr. Greaves to take up a position
in Canberra, and Mr. Clark took over the position of Secretary. In October
1930, brief rules were drawn up by the Committee for the Club's organization,
one being: "that Offices of the Club consist of President, Vice-President,
Secretary and Treasurer, with 3 other members on the Committee".
Special meetings were occasionally held to hear interstate speakers,
such as Mr. Waterhouse and Mr. H. Carter from Sydney, Mr. G. Hardy, Univ.
of Brisbane, Prof. Wheeler from U.S.A., and Dr. Tillyard from Sydney.
These meetings were contrived to fit in with the speakers' itinerary.
May 1932 elected were President Mr. A.N. Burns, Vice-President Mr.R.Pescott,
Secretary Mr. A. Brown, Treasurer Mr. Blackwood, Committee: Miss Shaw, Mr. Goudie,
Mr. F.E. Wilson. Members continued to give talks at each meeting although
the occasional visiting interstate entomologist was invited to speak or read
a paper.
1933 ~ Those elected at the May meeting were: President Rev. E. Nye,
Vice-President Mr. C. Borch, Secretary Mr. J. Clark, Treasurer Mr.R.Blackwood,
Committee: Messrs. Pescott, Ward, Wilson. Membership stood at 4-5* 11 monthly
meetings were held with the average attendance 18. The Club moved its central
meeting place from Latham House to Forrester's Hall (Royal Australian Ornitho¬
logical Union), Latrobe Street, in July, occasionally holding meetings at the
National Museum. Messrs. Greaves and Parlett, both Foundation members, were
made Honorary Members.
1934. At the May meeting Mr. F.E. Wilson was elected President; Mr.
R. Blackwood Vice-President and Treasurer; Mr. Ward Honorary Secretary;
Committee: Rev. Nye, Messrs. Clark, Burns, Borch. The total membership stood
at 4.7. Seven meetings were held at Forrester's Hall, the others at the
National Museum. An average of 18 people attended at which members spoke on
various entomological topics, e.g. Mr. Clark 'Arthropods', Mr. Borch
'Collecting near Toowoomba’. Two Committee meetings were held at the home of
Mr. Wilson to draw up the syllabus for the year's activities. No excursions
were held.
A members list up to 1934 was
Mr. L. Allen (joined 4*10.27)
Mr. W. Andrew (4*6.29)
Mr. J. Anderson (5*7*34)
Mr. N. Andrewartha (7*5*31)
Mr. C. Barrett (5*4*27)
Mr. G. Brown (5*2.3l)
Mr. & Mrs. A. Burns (12.7*27)
Mr. C. Burgiss (21.6.29)
Mr. J. Bowen (1.6.33)
Mr. A. Butcher (7*8.33)
Mr. S. Chidgey (9.7.28)
Mr. A. Chisholm (1*6.33)
Mr. J. Clark (5.4.27)
as follows:
Mr. K. Clark (2.8.34)
Mr. H. Clenton ( June, 34)
Mr. J. Cook (2.7.28)
Mr. J. Gockrem
Mr. J. Davies
Mr. & Mrs. C. Deane (5*4*27)
Mr. J. Evans (6*11.30)
Mr. R. Fowler (4*9*29)
Miss J. Fenton (6*12.34)
Mr. F. Hence (l.5«30)
Mrs. Hinge (2*7*31)
Miss Huckerly (5*10.31)
Mr. I. Gibson (4-*8-32)
- 8 -
July, 1973
The Victorian Entomologist
Mr. J. Goudie (6.11.30)
Miss E. & L. Graham (i.5*30)
Mr. A. Greaves (5*4*27)
Mr. T. Greaves (5.4*27)
Mr. K. Guichard (3*5*34)
Mr. J. Grove (5*8.29)
Mr. C. Ives (June 34)
Mr. M. Jenkins (5*5»32)
Mr. L. Johnson (6.8.27)
Miss D. Kidd (5.12.29)
Mr. S. Leviclc (6.8.27)
Mr. G. Lorimer (3«4*30)
Miss B. Metcalf (6.6.29)
Mr & Mrs. V. Miller (7*6.27)
Mr. T. Mills (6.11.30)
Rev. E. Nye (1.6*33)
Mr. & Mrs. B. Blackbourn (4.4*29)
Mr. R. Blackwood (5.4.27)
Mr. G. Borch (5.4.27)
Mr. E. Bourne (3.7*30)
Mr. A. Brown (12.7*27)
Mr. E. Nye (1.6.33)
Mr. S. Parlett (5*4*27)
Mr. R. Pescott (5*6*30)
Mr. A. Pike (3*5*34)
Mr. J. Preston (l.5*3l)
Miss J. Raff (12.7.27)
Mr. T. Rayment (7*6.27)
Mr. Robertson (5.4*27)
Mr. W. Rogers (5.4.27)
Mr. M. Scanlon (3*7*33)
Miss R. Shaw (2*5*27)
Mr. E. Smith (5*5*32)
Mr. E. Smith (3*5*34)
Miss H. Steele (4*5*33)
Mr. C. Trevelyn (5*10*31)
Mr. A. Tubb (4*4*35)
Mr. A. Wade (12.7*27)
Mr. G. Wade (l*3*33)
Mr. K. Ward (3*3*32)
$ev. A. Westley (7*6.27)
Mr. Williams (2.6.32)
Mr. & Mrs. F. Wilson (5.4.27)
Miss Wise (5.4.27)
1935. In May Mr. R* Pescott was elected President: Mr. R. Blackwood
Vice-President and Treasurer; and Mr• Ward Secretary. Committee: Messrs.
Wilson, Nye, Burns, Smith. At this meeting the word 'Club' in the name was
changed to 'Society' thus the name of the Society became 'The Entomological
Society of Victoria'. Total membership dropped to 33, mainly due to members
obtaining posts in the newly formed CSIRO. Average attendance during this
period stood at 16 at the eleven monthly meetings held. Members' talks
included 'Australian Entomologists of the Past' - Mr. Wilson; 'Insect Problems
in Victoria' - Mr. Ward. The Committee decided to produce a quarterly
publication under the direction of Mr. Blackwood.
1936. In May Mr. F. Wilson was elected President; Mr. A. Burns
Vice-President; Mr. K. Ward Secretary and Mr. R. Blackwood Treasurer.
Committee: Messrs. Pescott, Smith, Nye,Deane. In June 1936, the first
Constitution was drawn up and agreed upon. Members continued to read papers
at the 11 monthly meetings held on average of 12 members attending. Subjects
included 'The History of Applied Entomology'by 'Mr. Pescott, 'Click Beetles'
Rev. Nye, 'Trip to Bellinden, Nth. Queensland by Mr. C. Barrett. There were
32 members on the Members' List.
1937* At the May meeting Mr. A. Burns was elected President; Rev.
Nye Vice-President; Mr. R. Blackwood Treasurer; and Secretary Mr. K. Clark.
Committee: Messrs. Wilson, Brown, Deane, Smith. Membership stood at 27 with
11 monthly meetings at Forrester's Hall. Talks included 'Entomologists now
living' (Mr. Wilson), 'Timber Borers' (Mr. Bowen^ 'Mounting and Preserving'
(Mr. A. Burns). There was an average attendance of 18 members. Two
excursions were held during the year - to Wattle Glen and Frankston. Messrs.
Blackwood, D e ane, Wilson, Rev. Nye and Miss Wise, five foundation members
were still on the members roll.
- 9 -
July, 1973 15:16 Victorian Entomologist
1938. Elected at the Kay meeting were: President Rev. Nye; Vice-
President Mr. Johnston; Secretary Mr. K. Clark; Treasurer Mr. R.Black¬
wood; Committee: Messrs. Burns, Wilson, Brown, Preston, Blackhourn, Miss
Lindsay. Membership stood at 27- 11 monthly meetings were held at Forrest¬
er's Hall, with papers that included 'Biology of Silverfish' read by Miss
Lindsay, 'Citrus Pests' read by Mr. Johnston, 'Spiders' read by Mr. Hince.
An average of 14 members attended. The Committee met once during the year
to discuss the syllabus for talks at the monthly meetings.
1939* At the April meeting Mr. C. Johnston was elected President; Mr.
F. Wilson Vice-President; Mr. R. Blackwood Treasurer, Mr. K. Clark Secretary.
Committee: Messrs. Hince, Hogan, Pescott and Preston. 32 members were on
the roll. 11 monthly meetings were held with talks that included 'Instinct
or Intelligence in Insects' Rev. E. Nye, 'Trip to Vv'estern Australia' Mr*
E. Wilson. 14 members constituted the average attendance at meetings and
the Committee met once to discuss the syllabus for the year.
1940. Those elected at the April meeting were: Mr. A. Burns President;
Mr. A. Brown Vice-President; R. Blackwood Treasurer; Mr. J. Preston Secretary*
Committee: Messrs. Hince, Wilson, Clark, Deane, Mules, Brown. 27 members
were on the yearly roll. At the 10 monthly meetings talks included
'Primitive Insects' by Miss Raff and 'Victorian Skippers' by Mr. A. Burns.
Instead of the March meeting, a very successful display exhibition was
held at the National Herbarium Hall, and proceeds of this show, £1.15.6,
were handed to the Army Comfort Fund. Three Committee meetings were held,
two with the purpose of listing Common names of Victorian insects, Mr. Deane
compiling a list of names already in use, and recommending others.
Several outings were held, including one to Frankston.
List of Members 194 0-41 '■
Mr. A.N. Burns (F.E.S.,B.Sc.,F.M
Mr. A.L. Brown,
Mr. & Mrs. B- Blackbourn
Mr. R.R. Blackwood
Mr. J. Bowan
Mr. H.F. Clinton
Mr. K.R. Clark
Mr. C. Deane
Miss J.H. Fenton
Mr. & Mrs. F. Hince
Mr. T.W. Hogan (E.Sc.)
Mr. C.J. Johnston (B.Sc.)
Mr. M.W. Mules
Rev. E. Nye
Mr. R.T. Pescott (F.E.S.,M.Sc.)
S.) Mr. & Mrs. J. Preston
Miss J. Raff (F.E.S., M.Sc.)
Mr. E.T. Smith
Miss F. Smith
Mr. G. Wade
Mr. W.D. Waugh
Mr. F.E. Wilson (F.E.S.)
Miss M.J. Wise
Mr. & Mrs. Miller
Mr. T. Greaves ) Hon.Life
Mr. Parlett ) Members
New Members :
Mr. J. Etheridge
Mr.& Mrs.J.C. Le Souef
Miss Clark
1941. Poor attendance resulted ■from members either attending Active
Service or wartime industrial occupations, an average of 9 attending the 8
meetings held. In April, Mr. A. Burns was elected President: Mr. A. Brown
Vice-President; Mr. R. Blackwood Treasurer; Mr. Preston Secretary.
Committee: Messrs. Johnston, Pescott, Deane, Wilson. Mr. Brown also
temporarily took over the task of Secretary when Mr. Preston was committed
to other activities. Talks included 'Eyes of Insects' by Mr. C. Deane,
'Order Anoplura Lice' by Mr. H. Clinton. Two Committee meetings were held,
and the proposed Exhibition night could not be held due to war time safety
precautions.
- 10
July, 1973 The Victor ian Entomologist
One excursion was held to Lang Lang, and several other smaller groups of
members got together to arrange other excursions, mainly to search for
Lepidoptera.
1942. Mr. J.C. LeSouef took over the position of Secretary from Mr.
Brown with Mr. Blackwood as Treasurer. In May 1942 the last meeting was
held at Forrester's Hall and in July of that year, members met at the home
of Mr. Wilson. Reminder slips were sent out to those members who may have
been able to attend such meetings.
(To be continued.)
INSECTS AS FOOD
By J0F0 Hutchinson.
From most parts of the world examples can be given in both modern and
ancient times of people of all colours and creeds, using insects as a source
of food. Pliny records that locusts were much eaten in the Parthians;
Herodotus describes the method used by the Nasamones of powdering locusts
for the purpose of baking them in cakes. Locusts, it seems, were and still
are popular as a source of food. They are cooked in many and various ways,
and are eaten in Arabia, Iran, Madagascar, Africa and India. Sometimes they
are merely fried, the wings and legs being plucked off and the bodies eaten,
flavoured with salt and pepper. In India they are curried. Another popular
way of cooking them is to boil them for half an hour, season with salt and
pepper and fry in butter. The author has tried without much success to cook
the imagos of the Field Cricket (Teleogryllus commodus). When the wings and
legs were plucked off and the remains fried in butter, the insects were quite
greasy with a rather nondescript flavour.
Cicadas (Cicadidae) were popular in the time of Homer. Aristotle talks
of the most polished of Creeks eating them, considering the pupae to taste
the best. Present day people who eat them are the American Indians and the
Australian Aboriginies.
The Australian aborigines because of their nomadic nature and harsh
environment are forced to eat all manner of foods; needless to say, insects
often form a part of their diet. McKeown (1944-) informs us of ants, wood¬
boring larvae, lerp scales of Psyllids, honey from native bees all being eaten
by aborigines. Witchetty Grubs are said to taste like omelette when placed
in hot ashes until brown and crisp. The author spent part of 1972 in the
Northern Territory and was able to taste some of the delicacies of the
aboriginal people. The larvae of the Green Tree ant (Oecophylla smaragdina)
are collected and may be eaten as they are; the idea of eating the still
wriggling larvae is rather nauseating, but crushed and mixed with water, they
are exquisite. The acid contents of their body give the water unbelievable
thirst quenching properties.
Lerp insects (Psyllidae) have a protective scale covering, sugary in
flavour. These have been eaten on a number of occasions in the country and
around Melbourne. While not being found in large numbers, they can be rather
pleasant, but very often the Eucalyptus flavour dominates.
- 11
J-Ij'j 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
In parts of East Asia the nymphs and adults of Dragon Flies (Odonata)
are eaten. The nymphs can be found, very often in abundance in the late-
winter and spring months in many streams, ponds and lakes. Ffied in butter
the meaty inside comes away very readily from the chitinous covering.
Cooked this way, they taste like crayfish and are very palatable. They
can also be boiled, and like sea-foods are rich in protein.
The larvae of the Mealworm (Tenebrio sp., Coleoptera) can be fried
m butter, spread on a dry biscuit and eaten.
These are only a few of the many insects that have been and could be
eaten; some of them have been tried and are rather insipid while others
have been found to be extremely palatable and are highly recommended.
Initially the social barriers to eating them are ominous, but once they
have been overcome and the first mouthfuls ingested, the omnivorous Homo
sapiens has another source of victuals. - ■
Reference: 1944, McKeown, K. Insect Wonders of Australia (Angus & Robertson)
-00O00-
TOXIDEA ANDERSONI (KIRBY) - (ANDERSONS SKIPPER).
( Lepideptera: Hesperiid ae)
A further note on the information contained in
D.F. Crosby's life history of this butterfly might be of
interest.
. H i i e ^ er / r0 “ F,E * Wilson » Dated 20/11/49 states: ".. .Have
bred out the first example of andersoni , a female and have a
larva also prepupal..."
Another letter from M.W. Mules, dated 23/11/49 states:
...Have bred out andersoni yesterday from pupa taken at
Kallista, so that’s that..."
Although there is a slight discrepancy in the dates, one
or the other might have erred in this regard.
During this period Bill Mules took a number of life
history photographs, blowing them up on his enlarger at
home. They were developed and printed at the then CSIR
dark room.
J.C. LeSouef.
July, 1973
- 12
The Victorian Entomologist
THE HYMENOPTERA, PART 3.
By R.H. Besserdin.
EVANIDAE .
The Evanids, more commonly known as the Hatchet wasps, are a family of medium
to smallish sized wasps which frequent over the whole of Australia, although
perhaps they tend to inhabit the coastal areas of the continent, including
Tasmania, more commonly. If you were ever to strike one of these wasps while
out collecting, you would easily identify it by the fact that at first sight
it may appear to have no abdomen, (which was something that once struck me
while collecting in the Little Desert on titree). From the top, looking
down upon them, their extraordinarily laterally compressed abdomen appears
almost invisible. This is perhaps the most characteristic feature present in
this unique family; so if you find a wasp with 'no abdomen 1 , you will know
that it is an Evanid. Actually, although their abdomen is very obscure from
above and below, further examination from a lateral point view will show your
error, because the gaster is actually quite visible and again very character¬
istic of this family. There is a thin stalk-like articule which is (abnormally
as far as wasps are concerned) attached to the top of the propedeum (a large
obvious segment situated at the extreme posterior end of the thorax).
'Normal Wasps' on the other hand, have the gaster attached to the bottom of
the propedeum - between the coxae of the hind legs. This thin stalk, which
is part of the abdomen, holds the remainder of the gaster cn its posterior
end, and because of the funny shape of this the gaster tends to look very
much like a flattened "r>ut cow bell, dangling on the end of a stick. In the
female the gaster terminates in the terminalia, a long spike-like projection,
called the ovipositor. This ovipositor, as in most other wasps performs three
duties at once, one - stinging, two - piercing thick cuticular prey and three -
depositing eggs. Prey, generally, consists of insects, while they ar<3 still
developing within the egg ootheca, as has been commonly observed in the
Blattodea, or Cockroaches, and the pupal stages of a few other insects.
The adult wasps are nectar or pollen feeders and are often observed
'refuelling' themselves on the blooms of a variety of common native shrubs
and trees, including Leptospermum (titree), Bursaria and Eucalyptus . During
the day they are usually active feeders, sometimes running around quite rapidly
over the flowers on which they are feeding, but on the other hand they may
be just as inactive, and will remain quite still, or so it may seem, for short
periods on one particular flower (selective feeders).
General appearance . Colours are usually very monotonous, ranging from
jet black all over and often together with a covering of silvery hair mainly
around the anterior parts of the body, particularly the head. The cuticle of
the thorax usually has a rugose texture and is usually only partly covered in
hair (setae). This rugose texture is a common characteristic feature of this
family. By 'rugose' I mean that the cuticle appears to have a texture consis¬
ting of innumerable tiny dent-like structures which apparently add enormously
to the overall strength of the cuticle, thus acting as a good source of pro¬
tective armour plating. The abdomen, except for the petiole (the stalk), is
usually soft and not armoured, but appears externally very smooth with a
lustre, which sometimes matches that of glass. Although most Evanids are
July, 1973
- 13 -
The Victorian Entomologist
usually dull in colour, some species may show signs of colours such as reds
and reddy browns on their gaster and thorax. The wings are not an atypical
shape for wasps, although they tend to be slightly more shortened and stubby
than usual and often tinted in a faint smoke colour or a faint black. The
big bulky thorax supports the long slender active legs of which the hind
pair are the longest, in general, and unfortunately as usual, only a small
amount of the life history and general habits of this family is known, but
hopefully sometime in the near future someone will find the time, patience,
and interest to devote .a bit of his life to the study of this family because
they are certainly a very interesting and unique group and worth the time
and effort. I sincerely hope that this passage has acted as some sort of a
stimulus to someone.
GASTKRUPTIIDAE ■
The Gasteruptiids are a distinctive group of rather unusual wasps that are
often mistaken for Ichneumonids. Gasteruptiids belong to the same super-
family (Evanoidea) as the Evanids, suggesting they are quite closely related
to one another. As far as I know, they have no common name but they are
very easily recognised by their usual predominantly dark colouring, very
long and slender build, and also, often by their very obvious and long
ovipositors. I would claim that this family contains some of the weirdest
looking wasps'in Australia. They occur over most areas of our continent,
wherever there is suitable prey.
Their prey consists generally of other wasps and bees. The type of
places these wasps frequent are generally regarded as the nesting habitats
of their hosts, usually rotting logs, dead but still standing tree trunks,
mud-nests or sometimes mud banks. I have watched the activity of Gasteruption
sp. as they scanned a large dead black wattle tree trunk, which formed the
nesting habitat of a semi-gregarious species of Eumnid wasp, (the mud daubers
or mason wasps). This Eumenid species, however, does not really have much
to do with mud nests since it nests in tunnels in trees, and since there
are usually hundreds of these burrows perforating the tree, then consequently
there are also hundreds of Eumenid wasps busily flying about too. Such a
community naturally attracts many predators among which, of course, are the
Gasteruptiids.
They are not so easily noticed at first, mainly ov.'ing to their drab,
dull colours but also owing to their slender build which helps to make them
difficult to see, especially as they fly around amongst the branches of
trees. Perhaps the thing that does make one notice them, however, is their
characteristic flight pattern as they investigate the possible habitats of
prey. This flight pattern usually consists of a slow unsteady hovering as
the wasp rises and falls and jerks from side to side or sometimes indulges
in short bursts of a steady flight and speeds to a new region, to further sear¬
ch for prey, if the last region was unsuccessful. This characteristic
flight is used deliberately so that the wasp can thoroughly scan any area
which it may regard as harbouring possible prey, and this scanning flight
they can do quite easily and quickly, and still be quite sure at the same
time of being successful - well, at least to the point of pin-pointing a
burrow which the wasp feels is certain to hold prey. Once the wasp has de¬
cided upon a certain burrow, it then alights next to it and wanders around
close by for a short period further investigating the area to ’confirm its
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Jul y ) 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
beliefs' (you might say). Tf the wasp, after investigation, considers that
it has made a mistake in selecting that burrow, it will then again take to
the air and search for a new area. however, if the wasp doesn't consider it
has made a mistake with the burrow it selected, but feels positive of its
nolding a bit of suitable food on which to lay its egg, it will then 'rear'
itself up to the hole, lift its hind quarters with the aid of its long hind
legs and then manoeuvre its ovipositor into position and proceed to probe the
burrow. An interesting point to know about, is that most wasps which display
ovipositors of the kind found on Gasteruptiids have three components compris¬
ing them. These components are very obvious on dead wasp specimens, since on
drying, the components tend to separate and curl slightly in random directions,
but in a live specimen, especially one inrflight, the three components are
held tightly together to look like one single appendage. The two other
components are the actual egg-laying instruments, the central component
being the 'Style' or sting, but the most interesting point and, perhaps,
the most significant concerning the investigation of the host's habitat, is
that the two outer components which perform the egg-laying functions are
also very important sense organs, which are used to indicate to the searching
wasp whether or not prey is available in a certain burrow; this removes the
need for the wasp to crawl into the burrow and face a possible fight with the
tenants or even other predators that may lurk somewhere deep down.
NoB. Earlier on I called the wasp ovipositor an appendage. This appendage
is in fact the terminalia of the female wasp but is collectively known as the
wasp's 'ovipositor'. In reality only the two outer components of this appen¬
dage are in the true sense ovipositors, which by definition are tubes used by
insects to deposit eggs. The third components is only significant in use for
the paralysis of suitable prey and as a defence mechanism against smaller
enemies. This, I am happy to mention does not include small entomologists
(within reason); your skin, fortunately is usually too tough for them to
pierce in good time).
After probing the burrow with its ovipositors and sensing whether or not
there is prey, the wasp will then either retract its ovipositors and fly
away or begin the process of paralysing the prey by stinging it several times
in certain sensitive areas (much like giving an anaesthetic before an operat¬
ion); then in time the eggs are transferred in a compressed form down the
ovipositors and deposited upon the paralysed prey. I have not been able to
further study the egg-laying habits enough to be able to continue, although
I hope to be able to soon. It would be significant to know just how many
times and where the prey is stung, where the eggs are laid and hew many,
when the larvae hatch, where they pupate, and when the fully fledged imago
hatches. I could not find out and as a matter of fact, I do not think
anyone has found out so far, but I hope this article has helped stir someone's
interest to do so. These wasps are strange and provocative to watch as they
fly about, I do not think there is anything on earth quite like them; it
would be a shame to see this diversely formed and most interesting group of
wasps go by neglected in a modern scientific world full of opportunity.
CHRYSIDIDAS .
The Chrysids, more commonly known as the Emerald wasps, or cuckoo wasps,
are perhaps one of the most spectacularly coloured groups of wasps in Australia.
This family ranges over the most of Australia, and like the majority of our
other wasp families, occurs more commonly around the eastern coastal zone.
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July, 1573 The Victorian Entomologist
Australia has been quite unfortunate really in the colour forms of its
Chrysids. Australian Chrysids, although they are a very spectacularly coloured
group of wasps, have a quite monotonous colour range compared to most European
Chrysids. The Chrysididae familiar in our country rarely shows much colour
variation from the usual emerald green (hence the common name) or aqua,
although some forms may display a blue, deep copper or sometimes a purple.
European Chrysids are probably amongst the most brilliantly coloured wasps
in the world. They are true jewels, with their bodies sometimes combining
several separate colours at once, and with a colour range that often dis¬
plays irridescent lime greens, golds, yellows, lilacs and purples, aquas
and emeralds, and ruby reds and sky blues and deep blues; they are
guaranteed to make anyone gasp.
But, for all their beauty they are still spirited little parasitic
wasps. Chrysids are parasitic mainly upon the mud-dauber groups of wasps.
I myself, have observed these wasps parasitizing the small Crabonids,
(Sphecidae) - a group of tiny, large headed wasps that bore holes into tree
stems and lamp posts (whichever the most convenient at the time). I have
also observed them actively at work at a Pseodozet hus, (Eumenidae - Mason
Wasps) burrow in an old tree stump. This~ ~Pseodozethus , incidentally, is the
same species of wasp X mentioned earlier was acting as prey for the Caster-
uptiids. At home, I recorded breeding about four rather large (12 mm),
brilliantly blue species from a mud-nest of the Eumenid, Paralastor vulvipes ,
Sauss. The mud-nest of this Eumenid wasp was very strongly cemented,
together with another nest closeby, inside a drainpipe; I removed both
nests a few months before winter of that year. Chrysids have also been
recorded hatching from the nests of several other genera., including Abispa ,
(Eumenidae) and the famous Yellow-banded Club Wasp, Sceliphron laetum
(Sphecidae). An intersting point I have noticed concerns a part of their
life history. The fully grown larva spins a thin yellowy-brown cocoon,
which the imago breaks through on emerging. In the mud cell from -which
the Chrysid emerges, there are very few remains of any stored food or of
the Chrysid's host. This suggests that the Chrysid larva may wait for the
host larva to devour its own food supply before the Chrysid larva devours
the host. This method of waiting would be used by the Chrysid larvae in
order to allow time for the host to fatten up as much as possible before
it itself 'set the dinner table'. In order to lay their eggs, the adult
Chrysids must fly into the mud nests and burrows while the adult hosts
are still constructing and in the middle of occupying themselves with their
egg-laying duties. This presents a problem for the poor adult Chrysids, and
this problem all boils down to one thing - getting into the host's nest,
laying its eggs, and getting out - alive. However, nature has provided
these brilliant wasps, not with a style or sting, but with a thickly plated,
armour shield cuticle. In the face of danger, the Chrysids curl up into
a tight ball making them virtually unscratchable, much to the annoyance of
an angry host wasp. The cuticle is actually formed in a similar way to the
cuticle on the thorax of the Evanids. Again, these wasps too, have a
rugose or pitted texture to their skin which as I mentioned before, seems to
add enormously to its overall strength. When in a tight ball, these wasps
just become hopelessly impenetrable, covering up their only really vulnerable
part - the soft, smooth, concavely shaped gastral venter, (ventral surface
of the abdomen).
- 16 -
July, 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
Adults are pollen or nectar feeders - actually, they are not very
particular about their brand of fuel, Leptospermum , Bursaria and Eucalyptus
all being popular. I tend, however, to collect them more frequently in summer
filling themselves on Leptospermum . As you may have gathered by now, the
usual hideout for Chrysids is where ever there might be food for young and
old; old dead tree trunks, lamp posts, house walls, yourself (depending on
how still you stand), shop windows and earthen mounds or banks (yes, money
banks tool). One peculiarity I have noticed is that adults may sometimes
over-winter by sheltering in places like under bark or rocks. I have several
times found them during winter and early spring in this state. Australian
Chrysids are generally small wasps, ranging from about 6 mm to 22 mm, our
largest species being Stilbum splendidum , the Ruby Wasp. Surprisingly, a
bit more is known about this group of wasps than one might expect with such
generally small insects, but they are still in need of attention, and I
think it could be well worth someone's while; for those ’who like owning
showy collections, other than butterflies and beetles, the Chrysididae will
provide you with more than just an opportunity!
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ARTICLES NEEDED!
You may have noticed that the last few issues of "The
Victorian Entomologist" have been rather slim. The Editor
urgently needs articles for the next and subsequent issues.
Anything about the insects of Victoria or any other
part of Australia is welcome, whether it is a record of life
histories, a list of insects taken in a particular area, a
note on a particular species, or observations on behaviour.
If your interest is in a group other than butterflies,
then an article would be particularly welcome.
Remember, this magazine is one of the best ways of
passing on your observations to other people!
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July,
1973* Advertisements.
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The Victorian Entomologist
UEENSLAND
BUTTERFLY
C 0.
Long Road, Nth. Tamborine, Qld. 4272. Australia.
SPECIMENS OF AUSTRALIAN & OVERSEAS BUTTERFLIES FOR SALE
A wide range of Australian species are
bred on our farm and available as eggs,
pupae or papered specimens.
Papered specimens of butterflies are imported from most
parts of the world.
Also available - Seeds of host plants.
WRITE FOR CATALOGUE.
11
a®
§1
7'Strr.
Anything to advertise?
We offer members the opportunity to advertise in
our "Service to Members" column for a mere 5° a
line.
So, if you need materials, literature, or infor¬
mation, or if you want to advertise the avail¬
ability of these things, why not let the Editor
know?
Copy should be received by the Editor by the 20th
day of the month before the issue in which it is
to appear.
(N.B. Advertisements of insects for sale not accepted.)
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Vol. 3: No.
5. October, 1973.
THE
VICTORIAN ENTOMOLOGIST
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Regd. at G.P.O. Melb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
40c
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the Society include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of wham receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at 8 p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions : $
Ordinary Member 3.00
Country Member 2.00
Associate Member 1.0Q
Junior or Student 1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
The statements and opinions expressed
of the respective authors, and do not
Society .
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &c. may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
in articles herein are the responsibility
necessarily indicate the policy of the
October, 1973
The Victorian Entomologist
* 15 OCT 197b *
X ^vicrro^ ^
C O NT ENTS
Page
Office Bearers & Diary of Coming Events 1
Reports & Notices: General Meeting 2
Council Meeting 3
News in Brief 3
Social Trip to Brisbane. By J.C. Be Sou&f 4
History of the Ent. Soc. of Viet. By Susan Beattie 6
Abstract: Delayed Ovarian Development. J.Aust.ent.Soc. 8
Collecting Lamps — A Warning. By M.S. Upton 9
A Quick Relaxing Method. By V.A. Brou 10
A List of Daly River Butterflies. By J.B. Hutchinson 12
An Appreciation 14
The Big Desert, September 15-17, 1973. By N. Quick 15
Correction! 18
Back Copies 18
Some Recently Published Books. Compiled by R. Besserdin 19
November Excursions 19
A Spring Appearance of Eurema smilax . Prom J. Hutchinson 20
New Members * Subscriptions 21
Junior Members 21
Service to Members 21
Advertisements 22
No article appearing in this Journal nay be
reproduced elsewhere without prior permission
of the Author and Editor.
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October, 1973
1
The Victorian Entomologist
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President:
Mr C.W. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave., Box Hill North. V. 3129.
Phone 89-9171
Vice-Pres.: Mr W.N.B. Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. 3150.
Phone 560-8145
Hon. Sec.: Mr S. McEvey, 5 Gissing Street, Blackburn South. 3130.
Phone 878-4724
Hon. Treas.: Mr R. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill Nth., 3i29.
Phone unavailable
Hon. Editor: Mr A.D. Bishop, 5 Warh.es Rd., Mitcham, V. 3132.
Phone 874-6119
Hon. Librarian, ) Mr J.E. Hutchinson, Scoresby Hort. Res. Stn.,
P.R. Officer ) P.0. Box 174 Ferntree Gully, V. 3156.
Phone 251-2233
Diary of Coming Events
October 19th., 1973j 8 .00 p«m« GENERAL MEETING, Clunies—Ross
House - , T9l Royal Pde., Parkville. The Guest Speaker is
Mu? H.B. Wilson. Subject: Insect Telergones & Pheromones.
Subs eque nt Gene ral Meeting: December 14th., 1973.
COUNCIL MEETING
Friday, November 9th« 7*30 p.m.: Venue to be advised.
EXCURSIONS
Novemb er 3-6 inclusive. (Cup Weekend). Southern central area of
the Big Desert.
November/December. The excursion to Mt.Macedon, originally
scheduled for late November, has been moved ahead to
December 2nd. (Sunday). Details elsewhere of these events.
Christmas7New' Year " Extended trip to Suggan Buggan.
Late January, " 1974 : Extended trip to East Gippsland ram-forest
Srea and Cape Everard environs.
Mid-February, 1974: Whipstick Scrubs near Inglewood. Repeat visit.
Throughout the summer months cancellation of excursions
could 'occur owing to fire hazard. Check the December
Journal, or contact the excursion co-ordinator for the
period concerned.
N.B.
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The Victorian Entomologist
Repo r t s &_ N o ti c _e s .
GENERAL MEETIN G:. Friday August 23rd., 1973» at Clunies Ross House.
Mr J.C. Le Sou&f chaired the meeting, which was attended
by 40 members and friends. A special welcome was extended to Mr J.
Barnes. Apologies were received from Messrs A.D. Bishop, Charles
McCubbin, W.N.B. Quick, A.Neboiss, P. Carwardine and Miss L. White.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.
Cor respondence was received from:
XT) The Australian Entomological Society: Circulars 233-235•
(2) . Clyde H. Wild, Department of Entomology, University of
Queensland, who is studying the ecology and binomics of
freshwater Culicoides (Ceratopogonidae: Diptera).
(3) Keith Hateley, accepting Honorary Membership.
(4) Andrew Atkins, giving notification of change of address.
(5) Murray S. Upton, CSIRO., who has just completed a study of
Mercury-Vapour lights.
Exhib its♦
Ray Besserdin:
Bob Condron:
J.C. Le SouSf:
Dennis Black:
Chrysidea.
Moth larvae (Geometridae) showing
faultless camouflage.
Kumaressa sp., one of the Hemiptera
(Bugs) from tropical rainforest.
Various insects from Queensland,
including Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera,
G ene ra l Busines s:_
The Treasurer reported a sound credit of 25100-79, with well
over 70 members financial.
Nigel Quick was elected — in absentio — as excursion
co-ordinator for the period August 24th. - October 19th.
It was suggested by Mr David Crosby that a roster be drawn
up amongst members to provide minimum exhibits at each meeting.
The Evening 's Address:
In the absence of a guest speaker owing to unforeseen
circumstances, the Society is indebted to Mr Ray Manskie for
providing and showing a most interesting series of slides at
such short notice.
-ooOoc-
Members will note amongst the 'apologies received' the name
of our President, Charles McCubbin, who was involved at the time,
with Mr Warren Bonython of S.A., in the final stages of their
successful attempt to be the first white men to cross the Simpson
on foot. A great feat deserving the congratulations of all members.
October, 1973
3
The Victorian Entomologist
C OUNCIL MEETING: September 21st., 1973* a t 20 Alimar Rd., Glen
Wave r ley.
(1) Hollowing a suggestion by Mr David Crosby at the last
General Meeting that a roster, to ensure a minimum level
of exhibits at meetings, be drawn up, it was decided to
initiate such a system. Selected or volunteer members
will be appointed at each meeting to provide exhibits for
the following meeting.
(2) The Treasurer reported a current financial standing of
198.79, with 85 members financial,
(3) It was noted by the Librarian that an entry in the News
Bulletin of the Australian Entomological 'Society has not
been made for some time in the available "News from
Affiliated Societies" section. He suggested that regular
entries be made by the Secretary, with a summary of this
Society’s activities, and abstracts of our Journal.
(4) A further suggestion by Mr Hutchinson was that council
members' attendcndances at Council meetings be included in
future Reports from the Secretary.
(5) Mr Hutchinson suggested that some thought be given to
establishment of 'Life Membership' subscription rates.
-ooOoo-
News _in_ Brief
Over the last few months the following correspondence has
been received by the Editors
(1) Mr R. Dirig, for TIEG, requested information regarding
our emblem — and permission to reproduce it — in an
article on lettei’heads involving insects to appear in
their Newsletter.
(2) Mr A. Eraser, of Australian Entomological Supplies,
enquired regarding advertising rates in the Journal, and
has placed with us the advertisement which appears in
this issue.
(3) The Australian Museum has requested further information
subsequent to the appearance of an _article on migrating
butterflies published in the Juno issue.
-ooOoo-
4
October, 1973* The Victorian Entomologist
Social Trip to Bris bane.
Instead of our normal July trip to the far north, this year
Mary and I decided to take the coast road as far as Brisbane,
calling on entomologists and old friends on the way. We had ideas
of doing some collecting but the slow, windirig road and tre,ffic
inhibited any stopping for this purpose.
In Sydney we had the pleasure of spending several nights
with Greg and Anne Daniels, and the weekend, when their 'flu had
subsided, with John and May Peters.
Naturally, there was a great deal to talk about with Greg
and Anne. We looked through his collection — particularly his
Robber-flies — and discussed their projected round-Australia
working and collecting trip with the Moulds. He was busy
converting his Toyota to a camping body, and preparing all the
necessary equipment to take with them.
During our stay with them, we drove to the city each day,
quickly learning the eccentricities of the fast and efficient
flow of Sydney traffic. One of the various calls we made was on
Dr Courtenay Smithers at the Australian Museum..On his pet subject
of the distribution of the Wanderer Butterfly, he expressed the
opinion that they would not be found in the winter on Phillip Is.,
but that there was a small over-wintering colony at Sale in
Gippsland. He will have learnt with surprise of the results of
the Phillip Island excursion.
Another call of interest was'at the Macleay Museum at the
University. Here we found what could be termed a 'museum museum',
with a fascinating array of specimens, many of historic interest,
collected by this outstanding man. Many of the insects have gone
to Canberra, but there is still much of the collection left there.
They are housed in magnificent antique cabinets with craftsman¬
ship rarely seen these days, and worth a visit to see regardless
of their contents.
The night we stayed with John and May Peters, they were
kind enough to invite John and Mary d'Apice as well as C-reg and
Anne for a most interesting evening's discussion. John d'Apice,
just returned from a trip to the Northern Territory, broughta.
banana carton with some 200 larvae and pupae of Vi rachola smilis
dalyen sis for us to admire.
Having in mind our meetings here in Melbourne with up to
some 40 members present, it was with some anticipation that we
went with Greg and Anne to the regular meeting of the entomolog¬
ical section of tloe Zoological Society of NSW at the ^museum. But
things are different in Sydney. Apart from the President and
Secretary, there were only two boys and an elderly chap at the
back, who took no part in the proceedings, and the four of us.
October, 1973
5
The Victorian Entomologist
We stayed a few days on the Gold Coast before going on to
Brisbane. The swamplands and their Gahnias have been replaced
by canals and the magnificent waterfront .homes so dear to the
"developer’s" heart. Beset by the winter migration of
Victorians escaping their bleak skies, rain and gales, we wore
thankful to leave this sterile area and return to Currumbin,
where we were able to find a 'Vaco.ncy' sign, rare at this time
of the year. We settled in near the Sanctuary, where we spent
some time with Alec Burns, so long Curator of Insects at the
National Museum (Melbourne). Later we went through his
collection with him at Burleigh Heads, had a look at his
tropical garden, and gazed at the magnificent view he has from
his home on Big Burleigh. He is still actively involved in
collecting, with a number of Mynes goo ff royi larvae in Jars in
his garage and study,
V/e had a look at the. Burns Collection at the Bird
Sanctuary, and the Bartlett Collection at the Coolangatta Zoo.
On the last day of our stay here, we set out for Mount
Tamborine to see Garry Sankowsky of the Queensland Butterfly Co
Locals gave us directions, with the usual "you can't miss it",
and eventually we found someone who actually showed us our way.
It was indeed an experience to meet this enthusiastic young
man with such a wide knowledge of butterfly foodplants. At home
he showed us his own collection, and the commercial side of
providing the wants of Australian collectors unable to visit
the north. Many specimens are, of course, exported overseas.
After lunch, we went down the road to the site of his
Butterfly Farm, where he has two and one half acres planted
with many trees, shrubs and creepers in every available space,
with a section for seedlings and cuttings, and a rearing
insectary. It would be surprising if this were not one of the
top Gold Coast tourist attractions in a few years, with the
spectacular tropical butterflies flying free on the farm, and
to the nearby rainforest pockets. Just before we left wo met
Garry's wife, another of the young generation of entomological
wives enthusiastically sharing their husband's interest.
In Brisbane, Geoff and Sybil Monteith were good enough to
ask us to stay with them. We were more than interested to look
through the collections at the St.Lucia University under his
curatorship. Here too we met Clyde Wild, one of our younger
members a few years ago, and now doing his Ph.D. at St.Lucia.
He is working on the biting midges, one of the attractions of
the waterfront developments on the Gold Coast .' We also met
Dr. Elizabeth Marks and Professor Kettle, as well as other
members of the entomological department.
s
October, 1973. The Victorian Entomologist
At their home, Geoff and Sybil showed us slides of thoir
recent trip to Somerset on Cape York, and we were.able to see
the tremendous collection ho has of that extraordinary group
of small insects, the Aradidao , found only on the rain-forest
floor. Sybil showed us some of the work of the CSIRO Long
Pocket Laboratories, her painstaking task of making insect
illustrations under high magnification. There is obviously no
shortage of funds in the establishment of this project.
Our last port of call on the way home was at Glen Innes,
to see Max and Barbara Moulds. We found them ousy preparing
for their trip, just as Greg and Anne were. .We were grateful
that they could take time off from their activities to enter—
tain us for the night. There was much to discuss, and it was
well after midnight when wo eventually turned in.
Apart from tho small part of his collection he had.with
him, the main interest perhaps was the opportunity of going
through his Butterfly Bibliography with him. This has.been a
mammoth task, and will prove a boon to future taxonomists,
with all the writers brought together for the first time.
Although the collecting was very limited, this was indeed
a most rewarding trip.
J.Q . he Sougf.
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HISTORY OF THE ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF VICTOR IA.. ,J ?ART £»
Compiled by Susan Beattie
In March 1961, Mr J»C. Le Soudf wrote to thooc pcrsoiio
who might be interested in re—forming the Society, in inaugural
meeting was hold at the National Herbarium on March 14th. of
that year, at which approximately 20 persons wore present.
Those included:
Mr Sc Mrs J.C., Master N. Le SouSf
Mr & Mrs A. Brown
Mr M.W. Mules
Mr A, Evans
Mrs G. Middleton
Mr D. MeInnes
Mr L.P. Crosby
Mr D. Holmes
Mr R. Parnell
Mr
E.
Freeman
Mr
A.
Neboiss
Mr
J.
Hill
Mr
F.
Hallgarten
Mr
R.
Bell
Mr
A.
Smith
Mr
R.
Manskie
Mr
C.
Bor ch
Mr
G.
Rushworth
October, 1973.
7
The Victorian Entomologist
It was decided that the Society be again known as the
"Entomological Society of Victoria", and that the previous
constitution be re-adopted. Those elected to office were:
President: Mr J.C. Le Sou&f
Vice-President: Mr D.F. Crosby
Committee: Mr A. Brown — Secretary.
Mr M.W. Mules — Treasurer.
Mr H. Borch.
Subscriptions of 10-- shillings per annum were agreed upon,
and also bi-monthly meetings to be held on the last Friday of
the month at the National Herbarium. The first of those meetings
was held on May 26th., 1961.
Excursions were held about every third month — to the You
Yangs, Analcie Gorge, Blackwood, &c. Guest speakers were invited
to every third meeting, the_intervening meetings left open for
for general entomological discussion amongst members, or members
themselves delivering the talk. The average attendance at the
meetings was 25 members and friends.
August, 1962, saw the inclusion of two new office-bearers,
Mr R. Condron and Mr R. Manskio. Mr Crosby sent out 'reminder'
notices to each member prior to the general meetings, that being
the only printed matter the Society produced. In February 1965,
Messrs Barnes and Strong undertook the task of initiating a
newsletter, and in August of that year Vol. 1, No. 1 of "Wings
and Stings", consisting of articles from various members, was
sent out. Volume 1, No. 2 was published in February 1966. In
1968 Mr Barnes became Secretary and Editor, and continued to print
and edit the Magazine until August 1970, sending out a copy to
members before each general meeting.
From August 1971> bi-monthly meetings were held at the
National Museum Theatrotte, on the third Friday of even months.
Office-bearers for 1971 were:
President: Mr C.W. McCubbin
Vice-President: Mr D. Holmes
Secretary/Editress: Miss S. Beattie
Treasurer: Mr R Condron
Committee: Mr F. Hallgarten
Mr P. Williams
Mr A. Hall
Mr B. Thompson
Miss J. Forse
At the suggestion of Miss Beattie, the name and format of
the Journal were changed to encourage members to reprint their
observations, and to increase membership. The Journal became
'The Victorian Entomologist'. The original constitution was
revised, and an application for postal registration was accepted
in March 1972.
TFT7 October, 1973.
A.N. Burns, (12:vii:27).,
President 1932, 1937, 1940
and IQH-'I - HgBALO.^ PHOT.
The late Charles Barrett,
foundation member, and first
Chairman.
The Victorian Entomologist
The late F.E. ('Ras) Wilson,
foundation member, President
1927, 1934 & 1936.
The iate M.W. (Bill) Mules,
Committee member 1940, and
T-rpasn-pp-r .
The Victorian Entomologist
October, 1973.
Tne positions of Secretary and Editor were separatee" 1 in
13/2, Mr H. Besserdin taking up the posting as Editor. Membership
rose from 45 in 1971 to 72 in 1972, with 8 Government institut¬
ions receiving the Journal.
Excursions were held at intervals, including weekend and
week-long trips to such areas as the Little and Big Deserts.'
The Society commenced the task of helping survey an area
in the Dandenong Ranges before and after control burning was
carried out by the Forestry Commission.
Many interesting talks were given at General Meetings by
both members and guest speakers. These included 'Aquatic Insects'
( Mr P. Genory ) and ’Grid Mapping for Faunal Surveys' ( Dr B.
.Smith ). With the increased attendance at General Meetings, and
the need for additional seating accomodation, it was decided
to hold 1973 General and Council Meetings at Clunies-Ross House
National Science Centre. This has proved most satisfactory.
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Delayed Ovarian Development and Aestiva tion in Adult Femal es_ of
Keto ronynpha me rope. (Len id opt or a_;_ Satyri nae . )
The following abstract is reproduced from the Journal, of
the Australian Entomological Society, 1973, 12: 92-98, with the
permission of the author, Mr S.D. Edwards, a taxonomist with
the CSIRO Division of Entomology, Canberra.
'There are strong indications that in New South Wales there
is a delay in ovarian development in females of Heteronympha
mer ope morono (Lepidoptera: Satyrinae) and in adcXtfo'n, under
hot conditions, aestivation nay occur. A similar delay in
ovarian development is indicated in nirifica but is probably
not accompanied by aestivation. In both “specie's females copulate
soon after emergence, and adult males do not aestivate. Delayed
ovarian development and aestivation, which have not previously
been recorded in Australian Papilionoidae, are discussed in
relation to climate.'
Two reprints of this paper are now in our Society's
Library and are available for loan to those interested.
J_._F. Hutchi nson , Ho n . Librarian.
October, 1973.
Tbe Victorian Entomologist
Collecting Lamps — A_ Wa rning.
A problem lias arisen for entomologists using mercury
vapour lamps for the collection of insects.
Prom.our point of view these lamps fall into two categor¬
ies; the high-pressure mercury vapour lamps which require a
choice to operate them, and the "Blended" lamps with a tungsten
filament as we 11^ as a mercury vapour arc, which have the great
advantage that they can be plugged directly into the mains
without a choke.
^The.problem mainly concerns these blended lamps. They used
to emit light in the long—wave ultra-violet portion of the
spectrum, and it was for this reason that they were attractive
to many insects.
Over the last year the manufacturers have changed the
internal phosphor coating of these lamps, and the "Blended" lamps
now on the market do not emit any light in the long-wave ultra¬
violet portion of the spectrum. Although they may still attract
some insects, they do not function as they used to, as the
writer found to his cost on a recent survey: two lamps, an old
and a new, were being used at the one time and the difference
was quite striking.
The same phosphor coating is also being used in the high-
pressure lamps but these, for some reason, still emit some
light in the long-wave ultra-violet portion of the spectrum so
they still attract insects though less efficiently than they
did.
^Sonc manufacturers can still supply — from existing stock
only I presume — high pressure mercury vapour lamps with clear
glass envelopes. These are most effective and were originally
recommended for the Robinson Light Trap, but shoxild only be
used in traps as they emit short-wave ultra-violet light which
can cause serious eye damage and sunburn with any prolonged
exposure.
At the time of writing no ansv/or has yet been found to
the replacement of the "Blended" lamps.
Murray S. Upton.
CSIRO, Div ision of Entomol ogy
C
The Society is indebted to Mr Upton for this advice which
may save some members not only many wasted hours, but consider¬
able expense. It is suggested that any interested collectors
contact a reputable lapidary supply house for advise on any
unit they may be contemplating.
October, 1973•
10
The Victorian Entomologist
A_ Quick Rela xing Met hod
By V. A. Brou.
iron time to time articles are presented describing
improved versions of relaxing boxes. My purpose in this
writing is to convoy an even simpler method used by this writer
for several years with great success.
Surely all collectors at some time have grit their teeth
when a prize papered specimen would not soften, or when trying
to spread small Lycaonids and other fragile insects, only to
tear their wings in an effort to spread the specimen. Even more,
small Hesperidae that have been papered are extremely difficult
to spread without some-damage to the specimen.
The entire relaxing operation can be accomplished without
the use of any type of container. Simply remove the specimen
from the paper triangle, and inject the specimen with plain tap
water. Any type of hypodermic syringe will do; a 10-ml syringe
is perfect. A disposable syringe carl be obtained at most' any
drugstore and will last many years. It is best to use a 20 or
25-gauge needle (U.S.). Insert the needle directly into the
thorax of the dried specimen directly under the wings.
Completely fill the thorax by pushing the plunger hard till the
water squirts out the rear cavity. Place the specimen back in
the paper into the paper triangle it was stored in and let stand
for 5-20 min. This will allow the antennae to soften in case
the water did not enter the antennae when injected.
This method is foolproof when using good quality papered
specimens, regardless of age. Specimens which have rotted
because of poor drying technique or specimens covered with
fungus should be watched carefully as surface wetting will
occur rapidly.
I have used this method successfully on well over 10,000
lepidoptera specimens of all types except micros. Coleopterists
w r ill find this method works quickly in softening beetles also.
If a relaxing box is used in conjunction with this method,
results are even better.
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Mr D.R. Holmes, who obtained the above information from
Vernon Brou, relaxes specimens for one night for preliminary
examination, then injects with warm water. Allow to dry sis for
fresh specimens. W.N.B. Quick paints antennae with 50-50
methylated spirit and water as a precautionary measure even
prior to handling.
October, 1973.
11
The Victorian Entomologist
A .List of Butter flies Collected, at Daly River _Crq3sing,_N.T .
By J.F. Hutchinson +
Pew^lists of butterflies exist for the Northern Territory;
Angel (1951) and Couchman (1951) are two. A number are available
for specific localities: Campbell (199-5) lists species taken at
Darwin and Le SouSf (1971) lists species taken at various local¬
ities, one of which is the Daly River Crossing. Lo Soubf's list
however is compiled from collecting done in June/July which is
the dry season. This present list gives species collected from
the Daly River Crossing and its environs in January 1972, which
is the wet season, and when a different butterfly fauna may be on
the wing,
Daly River Crossing is situated about 19-5 km south of
Darwin. It is an area which in the future will be important from
a recreational point of view because of its close proximity to
Darwin and its aesthetic appeal. At present there is an unsealed
road in from the Stuart Highway, but this is to be sealed soon,
which will make the area, much more popular.
Apart from t.ae immediate river banks the vegetation is
basically savannah woodland with Eucalyp tus miniata (Darwin
Woollybutt) and E. tet rodo nta (Darwin StringybarkJ~'’forest.
Pan dan us spp., Ter nina lia spp. and Ac acia spp. form the under¬
storey, with tall rank grasses. Termite mounds abound.
A highlight of the trip was the brief period collecting at
the cashew-nut plantation of Mr R. Judge, who has spent most of
his years 021 the Daly River. This is also the type—locality for
Vir a chola smilis dalyo risis taken by Le SouSf in 1969 (Le Sougf
ci Tindale 1976). Unfortunately this was not taken, but a number
of other species were, including Dana us chrysip pus.potilia,
Papili o demoleus sthonelus and the usually” uncommon Phal'a nta
phalantha arack.
Ono_ of tho environs of the Daly River Crossing is Butterfly
Gorge; this is a lDcal name for an extremely.attractive area
which is aptly named. Botanically the area varies considerably,
with Banbusa ar nhe mica and Canthorme an ur abell atum dominating the
lower reaches and mixed rainforest" species" along tho creek.
Species found include acac ia au ricu lif ormis, Ter ninalia ser ico -
ca rpa and several species" of Eugenia.’ FaucTea coaFunaia occurs
all along the creek. The number of p1ant - spoc1cs"Tn~TEese 'rain¬
forest ' areas can be quite high and may even contain some very
large Me laleuca Spp., usually M. argen tea . JutXrfly species
taken m the" gorge proper were7""Gra phl un eu ryp ylus nycti raus ,
D.anaus hamat us ham atu s and Burema he cab" c ~" ph 6 eb us ,' while’" on the
ridges the following Hesperiids were taken: Pasma po lysema,
Taractro cora dolon diomedos, T. ina , Pclo pidas l yel li TyeTli
T Scorosby Hort. Ros. Stn., P.0. Box 179-, Perntroe Gully.V., 3156.
October, 1973.
12
The Victorian Entomologist
and Ocyb adis too wa lker! Olivia. The penultimate species has been
recorded as a post on sorghum, causing defoliation in the
Kinberloys in 1970. (Coranon & Waterhouse 1972).
Dry Lake is also in the environs of the Daly River Crossinn*.
It is situated on the Litchfield Station road and acts as a
drainage basin for the surrounding area. There arc extensive
areas of Livistonia hunilis and Pandanus spp. associations,
l^lyptus papuana (Drooping White GumJ7 E. f o e is c he ana (Ean-
leafod -Bloodwood) and Melaleuca spp. arc•associated with these
areas, and vary according to drainage patterns. Butterfly species
taken here included: Cepora pe r inale scyllara . Prec is orithya
albicincta . and Hyc a les i s"siriu s"sirius. .
The following list employs the taxonomy adopted by
Common and Waterhouse (1972). Species narked thus « arG
those for which the Daly River Crossing and its environs appear
previously unrecorded localities.
In addition to the .references cited in the text, Waterhouse
and Lyell (1914), D'Abrera (1971) and McCubbin (1970) were also
consulted. Coding is as follows:
A: Daly River Crossing
B: Dry Lake
C: Butterfly Gorge
D: Bob Judge's Plantation
HESPERIIDAE:
Pas na polysena (Lower) 'Polysena Skipper' C x
T aractr ocera dolon d ione dcs- Waterhouse C K
Taract roc ora ins. Waterhouse 'Ina Grassdart' C
O cybadis tes wal keri oliv ia Waterhouse C
Tel i cota colonarg ous (Pldtz) 'Pale Darter' C
Pelopid as lyell i lyelli (Rothschild) 'lyell's Swift' C
PAPILIONIDAE:
Gr aphiun curypy lus ny ctinus (W & L) 'Pale Green Triangle' A,C 35
Papilio canopus canopus Westwood 'Canopus Butterfly' A
Bapili o donoleus st henelus V/.S. Macleay 'Chequered Swallowtail' D
Crossida c ross ida ca ssandra (V/ & L) 'Big Greasy' A
PIERIDAE:
Eur oma hecabe phoe bus (Butler) 'Common Grass Yellow'
Elodina pe rdita walkeri Butler
A,C
A
October, 1973*
13
The Victorian Entomologist
Cepora p or iraale s c yllar a (W.S.Macleay) 'Australian Gull' A,B
Appias pau lina ega (Boisduval) 'Common Albatross' A
NYMPHALIDAE:
Dan aus chrysippus peti lia (Stoll) 'Lesser Wanderer'
Da naus hamatus Iiamatu s (W.S.Macleay) 'Blue 'Tiger'
Euplo ea core cori nna (W.S.Macleay) 'Common Aust. Crow'
Eup loea Sylvester pel or Doubleday & Hewitson
Euploea darchia dar chia (W.S.Macleay)'Darwin Brown Crow'
Mycalesis sirius sirius (Eabr.)'Cedar Bush Brown'
Hypocysta adi ante antirius Butler 'Darwin Kinglet'
Hypoli nnas bolina nerina (Fabr.) 'Common Emgfly'
H7/polimnas mis.ippus (Linnaeus) 'Danaid EggTly'
P rec is hedonia zel ima (Eabr.) 'Brown Soldier'
Pr ecis vi llida calybe (Godart) 'Meadow Argus'
Precis orithy a al b ici ncta (Butler) 'Blue Argus'
Phal anta p h a l anth a a raca (W & L) 'Leopard'
Acraea andromacha andromacha (Fabr.) 'Glasswing'
LYCAENIDAE:
A,B,D
A, C
A
A
A
B
A
A. B, D
A
A
A, B, C
A,D
A
Narathura a raxes as opus (V/ & L) A, C, D x
Nacaduba k urava felsina (W & L) A
C atopyrops f lorinda e strel la (W &. L) A
Anthene l7/-caenoidos godc-ffroyi Semp. 'Pale Ciliate Blue' A
Catochrysops p anormus platissa (H-S) 'Forget-me-not' A
Ziz eeria knysna karsandra (Moore)'Dark Grass-blue' A
Zizeeria a lsulus a lsulu s (H-S) 'Black-spotted Grass-blue' A
Freyeria trochylu s putli (Kollar) 'Grass Jewel' A
It was disappointing not to take Virachola smilis d alyensi s;
Le SouSf took his specimens in June/July which is in the dry
season when this insect may be flying.
Liphy ra brass ol is nela nia may also be present in the area
as many trees have nests of" O ecoph ylla smar a gdina (Green Tree
Ant) in them and it was only "an" oversight on the author's part
that prevented him looking for it.
October, 1973.
14
The Victorian Entomologist
This list represents about one third of the 100 or so
butterfly species that have been recorded from the Northern
Territory, and it appears that relatively few species are on the
wing at this time of the year in what would appear to be one of
the best tines for collecting. It seems that the emergence
tines are more varied than one would expect, but this applies
to a few species only, with the more common ones on the wing
for most of the year.
It was thought desirable to publish the list in order to
determine any changes in the butterfly fauna that nay occur
when.civilisation encroaches on this area, as it becomes more
popular as a tourist resort, and also because no list is
available for .this area at this tine of the year.
The assistance of Mr W.N.B. Quick with the identification
of species, and of Mr «J.C. Le Sou£f,(who instigated the trip),for
his valuable comments, is appreciated. I an also grateful to
Dr I.E.B. Common for his criticism of an early draft of this
manuscript•
REFERE NCES.
Angel, F.M. (1951) Notes on the Lepidoptera of the Northern
Territory of Australia, with description of new species.
Trans. Roy. Soc. S. Aust. 74:6 - 14.
Campbell, J.O. (1947) Some Notes on Lepidoptera Collected at
Darwin during November, 1945. Aust. Zoologist 11:159-160.
Common, I.F.B., & Waterhouse, D.F. (1972) "Butterflies -of
Australia" (Angus & Robertson).
Couchman, L.E. (1951) Notes on a Collection of Hesperiidae Made
by F.M. Angel in the Northern Territory. Trans. Roy. Soc.
S. Aust. 74-: 15-17.
D'Abrera, B. (1971) "Butterflies of the Australian Region"
(Lansdowne).
Le Soudf, J.C. and Tindale, N.B. (1970) A New Subspecies of
Virachola snilis (Hewitson) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
from Northern Australia. J. Aust. ent. Soc. 9:219-222
Le Soudf, J.C. (1971) Winter Insect Collecting in the Northern
Territory. Viet. Nat. 83:550-550.
McCubbin, C.W-. (1970) "Australian Butterflies" (Nelson).
Waterhouse, G.A. & Lyell, G. (1914) "The Butterflies of Australia"
(Angus Sc Robertson).
•-00O00--
An Appreciatio n
The Society is indebted to Mrs A. Neboiss for her time and
effort in typing the stencils for the previous edition of the
Victorian Entomologist.
October, 1973.
13
The Victorian Entomologist
The Big Desert - Sent ember1,3-171 1973
Survey collections in October/November of 1971 and 1°*72,
made in the southern central area of the Big Desert, included
a number of most interesting insect species. Some of these have
been referred to by D.E. Crosby in Vol. 2: No. 3 of the Victorian
Entomologist for June 1972.
Previously unrecorded from Victoria, and rare elsewhere,
the butterfly Ogyris otanes was first collected here in 1971.
This.was an unexpected result of a fruitless search for the
®ly siv 9 Qifoio i which may yet.be found to inhabit the area. At
that time, a„.plant, presumed incorrectly to be a Choretrum,
was. searched in vain for signs of the early stages’! It was not
until.late October, 1972 that the true Choretrum, the host plant,
was finally located after an extensive search. It is a compar¬
atively rare, semi-parasitic shrub of some 1 metre in height,
largely confined to the fringes of low-lying areas.
The inter-relationship between the butterfly and the
Choretrum is precarious, and appears linked not only with the
presence or absence of the attendant ant ( unidentified, but
probably a Myrmo phyma as on Kangaroo Is.), but also indirectly
with immature Jassids.
Several specimens of the butterfly, roared from mature
larvae in 1972, will enable a comparison to be made with reared
specimens from Kangaroo Island, and its true status to be
evaluated.
It is interesting to note that while the adult insects
wore flying at the end of October, 1971, most were still in the
larval stage at the same period of 1972. In mid-September of
this year.pupae were already present, and today, October 1, are
on the point of emergence. This apparent susceptibility of the
butterfly to seasonal climatic variation may apply equally to
the related 0 . i dmo , and account in part for its apparent
disappearance from areas of .former occurrence.
The desert is still obviously suffering from the effects
of drought, although new spring growth is appearing. While 1973
may not provide a truly representative survey collection, the
prospects for 1974-, if time permits, would seem to be excellent.
It had been hoped that some additional specimens of a
small Canda l ides , possibly distinct from, but formerly confused
with, C. acastus (also present in the area), might be flying.
Careful observation of this, and also C. cyprotus is still
necessary to establish the host plants, and check on the early
stages. In spite of the apparently early season this year, the
few specimens of each which were seen provided little opportun¬
ity for such observations, and the host plant of C. cyprotus
in particular remains a mystery. The host recorded for the
October, 1973
16
The Victorian Entomologist
species near Sydney is one of the Broom-like legumes, Jacksonia
scogaria. Within the survey area, the most closely-related
plants seem to be Daviesia breyifolia and the relatively close
.Dill y gnia s. No trace of larvae"has been noted on these to date,
and the adults have not been observed to favour attention on
their flowers.
Several C andalides hyacin thinus simp lex wore already about,
and Lampi des boeticus, the Pea Blue, was" in evidence wherever
gi llwyn ia was in flower. The erratic and rapid flight of this
common little butterfly provided rather unexpectedly strenuous
exercise before one was netted for identification.
Time did not permit-more than a token search of the
legion plants of homandra glauca for the undoscribed larva of
T rapczites s ciron eremicola . The only record of the early stages
of this desert skipper is still restricted to that of a very
fresh pupal shell and cast larval head, found on a plant in the
Little Desert in late October, 1969.
A brief search of odd clumps of Lepidosperma carphoides
along the track close to camp provided several pupae of
Mot asi ngha dirphia tri maculata, a skipper commonly taken in
these areas, but seldom reared.
What was initially one of the prime objects of this early
visit proved to be somewhat of an anticlimax. Within Victoria,
Mota s ing ha atra lba, the Black-and-white skipper, had, prior to
1971, been recorded from only one small area near Hattah Lakes.
These insects appeared to represent a race distinct from South
Australian specimens, and it was hoped to obtain specimens.
The host plant, Gahnia lanigera is a oungent-leafed little
sedge, widespread in occurrence, although locally restricted
to the fringes of low-lying areas. In early November, 1971,
D.E.A. Morton took one late specimen, a female, on the inter-
dune flat to the north of Hill 3 (writer's reference). The
G ahni a could not be located at the time, but was subsequently
located in 1972, shattered through a low-lying area perhaps
quarter of an acre in extent. Larvae of the second (autumn)
brood were present in the second and third instars at that time,
and not infrequent on the plants.
In order to obtain specimens of the adult insects or
pupae, it appeared necessary to visit the area earlier than
October, or during March/April. The recent brief visit was as
stated earlier, for this purpose. D.E.A. Morton, who had
checked the area some two weeks earlier, reported being able
to locate only one pupa. D.E. Crosby, accompanying the writer,
had little more success. Several additional small patches
of the Gahnia were found in and around low-lying areas up to
some 5 km west of Hill 1 (writer's reference) on the Murray-
ville Track. In these areas a number of anparently-fresh
pupal shells were found, suggesting a slightly extended but
October, 1973.
17
The Victorian Entomologist
sparse spring emergence pattern. In this phase the species might
be locally vulnerable to over-collecting. Certainly from the
aspect of convenience alone, the more prolific autumnal brood
seems preferable.
Of considerable interest was the capture by Mr Crosby of
a single specimen of a Theelinosthe s. The writer is not aware
of any previous records from the immediate area, other than
a species ( T. o nyc ha ?) recorded from the hyp erf eld National
iark (. ;, and which, from a cursory examination of the present
insect in ohe field, appeared very much darker. A late summer
collection may^ disclose a much higher population density, and
help _clarify the situation, Possible host plants include
Acac ia spinescens, A^ cala mi f o1i a and A, trinoura, 4
Out on the flats, the multitudes of Vanessa cardiii' were
accompanied by many P recis _vill ida (the Meadow Argus), every
few paces putting up specimens of one or the other, sometimes
Doth, which then spun off into the air in a frenzied dog-fight
over a territorial intrusion which neither had caused. Precis
villida appears restricted to the fiats, but late in the~day7
the painted lady (V. car dui), together with occasional V. itea ,
exhibits very strong hill—topping tendencies. In regard to the
presence of. V« itea in^the area, an infestation of the intro¬
duced Stinging-Nettle ( Urtica urens ) 46 km out of Yanac, and a
second has been reported near "Broken Bucket Reserve. These
should be attended to without delay. No recognisable evidence
of the presence of larvae of V, i f ea was noticed, and although
no overall direction of flighF*df "“those three species was
discernable, it is probable that all three had arrived in the
area in a migration.
P-Sli-^s agani ppo , the Wood White, was occasional around the
dunes. Both sexes were present, one female insect seen,but not
captured,having the red areas of the hindwing underside largely
replaced by yellow. The host plant in this area — Santalum
acuminatum , the Bitter Quandong — had suffered badly "'during
the drought, ofton to the point of defoliation, but is now in
prime condition for the butterfly, with masses of lush young
foliage. The species should be well in evidence, as larvae or
pupae, at the time of the October/November excursion.
Neo luci a ag ric ola agrico la, the Fringed Blue, which might
have been expected to be frequent at this time of the year, was
not seen. This little butterfly, dependent on flowers of the
various Papil ionac cac as hosts, must have been decimated during
the drought months". Several worn specimens of the Chequered Blue
(N eolu cia serpentat a serpentata) were collected on hilltops.
Although not specifically included in this collection,
several Jewel Beetles (all Stigmodera spp., Buprestidae ) were
seen on flowers of the "Inland Coast Titroe" Leptospormum
l aevigatum var. mi nus. Night light collecting was not very
October, 1973.
18
The Victorian Entomologist
productive, the air temperature falling rapidly after sunset,
a process which, continued through the night, reaching a
minimum of —about 3 a,m# At this time the writer, despair¬
ing of any hope of staying warm enough to sleep in his
synthetic-fill sleeping bag, got up, lit a huge fire, and
started making toast, only to discover that at this temperature
Mr Peters' "always fresh, always soft" butter assumes many of
the characteristics of obsidian.
■ On the return trip, after completing some last-minute
photography of the area, a further very brief stop was made
some 22 kp. out of Yanac where a roadside strip of heathland
flora persists. A number of small Lycaenids were seen flying
around the wine-rod flowers of Daviesia brevifolia. Their dart-
grey underside, _devoid of any oSvTous' markings"'other than
subterminal series of whitish lunular spots, was strangely
unfamiliar. Paradoxically, they proved to be Zizina otis. our
common little Grass Blue or, more appropriately, Clover Blue.
Under some local influence, their extremely dark underside
was accompanied by a brighter abd more lustrous blue than is
characteristic of populations to the east. Further specimens
from areas intermediate between north-western Victoria and
Melbourne would form an interesting series. Other specimens,
apparently just as dark, were collected simultaneously by
A.D. Bishop some 48 km south of Ouyen.
1 A record (unpublished) of D.F. Crosby.
+ Common & Waterhous.e, "Butterflies of Australia",
(Angus & Robertson 1972) pp. 397-398.
The exact locality is not stated, and the writer
may be in error in assuming that the above refers
to the hyp erf old area.
V/.N.B . Quick.
-ooOoo-
C ORRECTION J
■ In Vol. 3, No. 4, August i"973,~page 11, notes headed
TOXIDEA ANDERSONI (KIRBY) - ANDERSON'S SKIPPER should road
TQXIDIA ANDERSONI &c. The second quotation, commencing
" Have bred out andersoni yesterday...." should read " Ras bred
out andersoni yesterday....", the reference being to the late
P.E. Wilson., The Editor apologises for those errors.
-ooOoo-
BACK COPIES
Back copies of a number of issues of the Victorian
Entomologist are still available from the Editor at nominal
cost, plus postage if applicable.
October, 1973-
19
The Victorian Entomologist
Some—Recently Published Bo oks for the Ent omologist.
Compiled by R. Besserdin
Termites: A World Problem. By Norman E 0 Kicken. $ 9.35
(Hutchinson) 0
Insects. Vol. 1. Peripatus, Myriapoda, Insocta. By David Sharp.
116,35 (Dover).
Butterflies of Trinidad and Tobago. By Malcolm Barcant. $8.15
(Collins).
Common Insects in New Zealand. By David Miller. $8.50 (Reed).
Insects of the World. By Walter Linsmayer. $15.00 (McGraw-Hill).
Insects, By Michael Tweedie. $3.25 (Orlis Books).
Australia's South-east: A Natural History. Part 2. By Stan &
Kay Breeden, $16.00 (Collins).
Australian Rock & Tree Orchids. Densey Clyne. $ 1.50 (Lansdowne
Periwinkle)„
vildflowers of the North & Centre. By Michael & Irene Morcom.be.
$ 1,50 (Lansdowne, Periwinkle).
Atlas of Animal Migration. By Cathy Jarman. $6.90 (Hoinemann).
A Treasury of Australian Wildlife. Edited by D.P. McMichael.
$ 1.95 (Ure Smith).
-ooOoo-
N OVEMBER EXCUESIONS
Over the Melbourne Cup weekend, November 3rd.-- 6 th., a
number of members will be continuing collecting and observing
the insects of the southern central section of the Big Des ert.
Others wall be seeing the area for the first time, and are"
advised to contact members who have been in the area in past
seasons. Basically, drinking water is unavailable, although
there is plenty for wasking-up this season. The nights can be
extremely cold. Other requirements will depend on the length
of stay planned. The area under study is reached via Nhill,
thence to Yanac. Prom Yanac (Store & Garage) proceed nortE
along the Murrayville Track for a distance of'‘ 44 km. ( 27 . 7 m)
to the base camp near "Hill 1".
Originally planned to take place at the end of November,
the excursion to Mt.Macedon will take place on Sun day, D e cember
2nd. The meeting place will be at the home of Mr & Mrs Schwarz,
"Th e B ungalow" Guest House, Devonshire Lane, Mt. Macodon, at
10 a,m.
Should any members desire a longer, more restful weekend,
Mrs Schwarz has advised that there will be ample overnight
October, 1973.
20
The Victorian .Entomologist
accomodation for some 40 guests. Members who will be availing
themselves of this accomodation on Satu rday night are advised
that if^they will provide their own linen (sheets, towel, pillow
slips, &c. — or sleeping bag) there will be no charge for
accomodation. In addition to this most acceptable invitation,
light refreshments will be available ( tea, coffee, biscuits).
It might be a courtesy, if contemplating an overnight stay, to
advise Mrs Schwarz at Mt.Macodon (054) 26-1313, or at the next
General Meeting.
Mrs Schwarz has suggested that if substantial meals are
required, Hotel counter lunches, or three-course meals at a
nearby cafe, are available. Michael Schwarz will be on hand to
supply local information.
The family Schwarz are members of the Geelong F.N.C., and
as such are quite accustomed no doubt to collectors sorting things
out in the evenings, and to the comings and goings of Will-o'-the-
wisp lanterns of night-lighting entomologists. All of which adds
up to the prospect of a most enjoyable weekend if the weather-man
plays his part.
Our hosts will be attending the next (October) General
Meeting, and any further information v/ill be available at that
time.
-ooOoo-
A Sp r ing App earance .of Eureina s mi la x , the Gra ss Ye llow.
(Lepidoptera: Pieridae)
As this page was being prepared, a telephone call was
received from Mr J.F. Hutchinson, reporting the collection of
a single specimen of the butterfly at Hastings today, October 4.
Two sightings were made, possibly of the same insect.
Mr Hutchinson will be in the area again tomorrow, and v/ill make a
point of keeping an eye open for further specimens.
The species is not infrequent around Melbourne during the
autumn months, but is seldom recorded at this time of the year.
This record may provide a clue as to the direction of entry of
these autumnal visitors, and their breeding areas. Recorded hosts
are various C assia s and Ncptunia gracilis. Cassia au stra lis occurs
in Eastern Victoria, while several other species’,” some of - them
native, are grown extensively in gardens.
October, 1973
21 .
The Victorian Entomologist
New Mem bers 7 S ubs.
. attention of New Members, who have joined the Society
cSSmi -} at ^ er llalf of 1 973, is drawn to a decision of the
Oouncii (Vol. p, No. 4, p.3) regarding entitlements of these
members to the Journal. Briefly, subscriptions paid late in the
year entioie that member to receive all issues of the Journal
i^d-i^g back-issues) for the year, but the subscription
should be renewed at the first meeting for 1974, or by mail.
Alternatively, these members may elect to purchase the
ournal at meetings until the end of this current financial
year, and apply their subscriptions to 1974. In all other
respects they are regarded as fully financial members from the
date of application for membership.
P 9 oce ? dure will greatly assist the publications
committee maintain a card-indexed record of postings in an un¬
to date condition. , 1
"Onld m ©mbers to which this may apply please advise the
mditor or one _ of the Publications Committee as to their
preference, either a . the October General Meeting, or by mail.
-ooOoo-
Jun ior Mem bers .
Juniors, and others, are sometimes confronted by problems
or queries regarding techniques of preservation or preparation
of specimens: or perhaps details on the method of construction
of simple but reliable gear is a worry. If assistance is
needed in any of these regards, do please contact the Editor,
i-iore than likely, others may be facing the same problems, and
our Journal is, in these regards, at your service.
-ooOoo-
SERVICE TO MEMBERS
WANTED: On exchange basis, short series of Zizina otis
from Nhill, St awe 11, Ballarat environs.
W.N.N. Quick, 20 Alimar Rd., Glen Waverley. V. 3150*
Advertisements for this section are accepted from financial
members at 5c per line. Closing date three weeks prior to
General Meetings. Advertisements of insects for sale can not
be accepted, -
(Advertisements.) Vol. 3, No. 5
The Victorian Entomologist
Hr
m
jitirr
m
@i
raHr
l|
Ift
QUEENSLAND
Long Road, Nth. Tamborine, Qld. 4272. Australia
SPEC MENS OF AUSTRALIAN & OVERSEAS BUTTERFLIES .FOR SALE
A wide range of Australian species are
bred on our farm and available as eggs
pupae or papered specimens.
Papered specimens of butterflies are imported from most
parts of the world.
m
m
ms?.
mz
c;:£3?
Also available - Seeds of host plants.
teV. I
AUSTRA L IAN E NTOMOLOGICAL SUPPLIES.
35 Kiwong St., Yowie Bay. N.S.W. 2228 Australia.
Phone: 524 4614
Agency: 14 Chisholm St., Greenwich. N.S.W. 2065
We are manufacturers and direct importers of all types
of entomological equipment, both for the amateur and
professional.
In addition, our new and secondhand book range is most
comprehensive.
PLEASE WRITE FOR OUR FREE CATALOGUE
Vol. 3 : No. b, December
1973.
THE
VICTORIAN
* HOECfflZ *1
'$£vt<yr o^ v \
ENTOMOLOGIST
Journal of
The ENTOMOLOGICAL
SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Regd. at G.P.O. Melb. for transmission by post
as a periodical - Category B.
40c
The ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Membership
Any person with an interest in entomology shall be eligible for Ordinary
Membership. Members of the Society include professional, amateur, and
student entomologists, all of whom receive the Society's bi-monthly journal,
the "Victorian Entomologist". Excursions are arranged to areas of topical
interest at intervals, mainly during the warmer months. Lectures by guest
speakers or members are a feature of most meetings, at which there is also
ample opportunity for informal discussion between members with like interests.
Objectives
The aims of the Society are:
(a) to stimulate the scientific study and discussion of all aspects of
entomology,
(b) to gather, record, and disseminate knowledge of all Australian insect
species,
(c) to compile a comprehensive list of all known Victorian insect species,
and
(d) to bring together in a congenial and scientific atmosphere all persons
interested in entomology.
Meetings
The Society's meetings for 1973 will be held at Clunies Ross House, National
Science Centre, 191 Royal Pde., Parkville, at 8 p.m. sharp, on the
second last Friday of even months, commencing with the Annual General Meeting
in February. Visitors are always welcome.
Annual Subscriptions : $
Ordinary Member 3.00
Country Member 2.00
Associate Member 1.00
Junior or 5tudent 1.50
(Associate members do not
receive the journal.)
The statements and opinions expressed
of the respective authors, and do not
Society.
Notwithstanding the rates shown
herein, rising costs and rates
of postage, &.c. may at some stage
necessitate an increase in
annual subscriptions
in articles herein are the responsibility
necessarily indicate the policy of the
December, 1973
The Victorian Entomologist
C 0-N T B NTS
Office Bearers and Diary of Coming Events,
Reports and Notices: General Meeting
Council Meeting
Publications Committee Meeting 3
Letters to the* Editor-
Phasmid Spraying by the Forests Coimniesion of Victoria 4
Report of the Excursion to the Whipstick Mailee 5
Some Recent Papers on the Lepidoptera. Compiled by
J.F. Hutchinson 6
Notes on the Life Cycle of Cyclochila australasiae .
By C.W. McCubbin 7
Correction 7
From the Editor 7
Advertisements 8
No article appearing in this journal may be reproduced
elsewhere without prior permission of the author 0 and
the Editor'.
: ■ . :
.
:
. .
... . .
December, 1973
1 .
The Victorian Entomologist,
ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY of VICTORIA
Office Bearers
President:
Mr C.W. McCubbin, 6 Manniche Ave, Box Hill North, Victoria, 3129.
Phone 89-9171
Vice-president: Mr Y/.N.B. Quick, 20 Alimar Rd, Glen Waverley, Vic., 3150.
Phone 560-8145
Hon. Secretary: Mr S. McEvey, 5 Hissing Street, Blackburn South, V., 3130.
Phone 878-4724
Hon. Treasurer: Mr ii. Condron, 96 Shannon St., Box Hill North, V., 3129.
Phone unavailable
Hon. Editor: Mr A.D. Bishop, 5 Warnes lid, Mitcham, Vic., 3132.
Phone 874-6119
Hon. Librarian, ) Mr J.F. Hutchinson, Scoresby Horticultural Research Stn,
P.It. Officer ) P,0. Box 174, Ferntree Gully, Vic., 3156.
Phone 231-2233
Diary of Coming Events
December 14th. 1973 : GENERAL MEETING - MEMBERS 1 NIGHT . Glunies-Ross House,
191 Royal Parade, Parkville. Slides welcome (but please let the
President know so that a projector can be obtained). Bring a
plate of food for supper.
February 15tfa . 1974: Annual General Meeting.
EXCURSIONS
Christmas/New Year : Extended trip to Suggan Buggan. Final arrangements
at December meeting. See also the article on Suggan Buggan
in The Victorian Entomologist Vol.2 No.6.
Late January. 1974 : Extended trip to East Gippsland sub-tropical rain¬
forest areas and Cape Everard. Final arrangements at December
meeting.
Mid-February. 1974 ; Whipstick Mallee in Bendigo-lnglewood area. Repeat
visit.
N.B. Throughout the summer period excursions could be cancelled
owing to fire danger. Arrangements should be checked with
the excursion coordinator for the summer period (to be el¬
ected at tne December general meeting).
December, 1973
2.
The Victorian Entomologist
Reports and Notices
GENERAL MEETING : Friday October 19th, 1973, at Clunies-Ross House.
The President, Mr C. McCubbin, chaired the meeting, which began at 8.24 p.m.
Thirty-eight members and friends were present, and apologies were received
from Messrs 1). Holmes, K. Manskie, A. Morton, and A. Neboiss, and from Miss
L. White and Mrs M. Smith. Mr McCubbin extended his thanks to Mr V.N.B. Quick
and Mr J.C. Le SouBf for chairing meetings in his absence. A welcome was ex¬
tended to two new members, Mr Vincent Salamitri and Mr Peter Christie.
Correspondence was received from:
1. Australian Entomological Society-News Bulletin Vol. 9 , Part J.
2. Australian Entomological Society-Journal Vol.12 Nos 11 3 .
3. T’lEG Newsletter Vol.7 No, 4.
4. Entomological Society of Queensland--News Bulletin.
General Business
1. Mr J. Hutchinson was elected excursion co-ordinator for the period 19th
October to 14th December. Anyone planning an excursion or wishing to
obtain farther information about excursions, both official and private,
is advised to ring Jim at work (231-2233).
2. A number of members offered to bring items of interest to the December
meeting; further exhibits would also bo very welcome, since the December
meeting is a members' night.
3. The minutes of the August general meeting were received.
4. The Treasurer, Mr R. Condron, reported a credit balance of 3> 104.94 and
a total of 87 financial members.
5. The Editor, Mr A. Bishop, asked for more articles for The Victorian
Entomologist in order that its normal size might be maintained.
6 . Two items for further debate were postponed until the annual general
meeting in February 1974. These were life, membership and supporting
membership.
Speaker
The speaker was Mr H, Wilson, the topic being "Insect Pheromones and Tel-
ergones", a talk which illness had prevented Mr Wilson from giving at an
earlier meeting. The idea of a pheromone was first explained, and then a
history of the terminology and research over the last few centuries was
given, ending with a resume of current research in this rapidly expanding
field. Mr Wilson's talk seemed to capture the imagination of everyone,
and a keen discussion ensued.
Exhibits
J.C. Le Soubf: Various insects collected at Yeppoon during a recent trip.
P. llolbery: Victorian insects of various groups, including many Odonata.
R. Besserdin: Results from rum-bait collecting, including an Gld Lady Moth
( Dasypodia selenouhora ), a slater (isopoda), and various
beetles and ants.
G. Rogge: Colour photomicrographs of the fine detail and colouration
of Cuckoo Wasps (Chrysididae).
3.
December, 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
COUNCIL MEETING : Friday November 9th, 1973.
1. The Treasurer, Mr R. Condron, reported that two new members had joined,
Mr 3.J. Berner and Mrs N.E. Harrison.
2. It was pointed out by the Librarian, Mr J.F. Hutchinson, that a record
of the society had not been entered in the Conservation Directory
published in 1970 by the Australian Conservation Foundation. He
suggested that the Secretary should therefore forward such an entry
in the form of a condensation of the inside front cover of the
journal.
3. Following a recommendation by Mr J. Hutchinson it was decided that a
subscription to the Australian Journal of Zoology should be taken out.
PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE MEETLNU : Thursday 15th November, 1973.
1. The Editor asked for someone to enquire in his absence at the December
general meeting about help from members with the typing of the journal.
It was suggested that it might be possible to make a list of members
willing to each type, say, one issue per year.
2. Correspondence was reeived from:
W.N.B. Quick—an apology for an error in the preparation of an art¬
icle in Vol.3 No.5 of The Victorian Entomologist; this is printed
elsewhere in this issue.
Victorian Fisheries and Wildlife—notice of discontinuation of sub¬
scription.
3. The Editor presented for the committee's approval a draft of a letter
to be sent to authors together with their proof-read articles. This
letter seeks permission from the author to publish the article with
any alterations that the committee has thought necessary, and also
mentions the.availability of reprints. It was decided that the num¬
ber of reprints obtainable free should be increased: from now on
five reprints will be supplied on written request free of charge to
the author and further ones will be obtainable at a charge of two
cents per page per copy.
-ooGoo-
Letters to the Editor
An Apo1Qgy
Dear Sir,
in preparing stencils for reproduction of Mr J.C. Le Souef's art¬
icle entitled "A Social Trip to Brisbane", in Volume 3 No.5 of the Vic¬
torian Entomologist, I was confronted with a phrase which appeared to
have escaped editorial attention. My attempts to contact the author for
verification were, owing to his absence interstate, to no avail, and,
anticipating that I was correct in my interpretation of the phrase, I
took it upon myself to amend this particular passage.
As it transpired, I was in error, and wish to extend my apologies
to the author and our Editor.
The text, as reproduced in the Victorian Entomologist Vol.3 No.5,
p.5, line 4 reads "Beset by the winter migration of Victorians escaping
their bleak skies, rain and gales, we were thankful to leave this ster¬
ile area and return to Currumbin, ....&c." The author's copy did, in
4.
December, 1973 * The Victorian Entomologist
fact read "V/ith the winter migration of Victorians to enjoy the bleak skies
rain and gales, we were thankful to leave this sterile area and return to ’
Currumbin, ....&c.
Sincerely,
W.N.B. Quick.
—OOOOG—
Phasmid Spraying by the Forests Commission of Victoria
The following press release was provided by the Forests Commission in
reply to a request for information about aerial spraying to control phasmids
particularly in the Powelltown area. It should be noted that the press re¬
lease dates; from 1971, and so does not necessarily reflect current policy
although no information to suggest changed policies was supplied.
" AIHCRAFT TG FIGHT STICK INSECT PLAGUE”
"In an aerial spraying operation to start this week at Powelltown,
the Forest* Commission is fighting a plague of forest stick insects. It is
threatening over 15,000 acres of some of Victoria's most valuable mountain
ash forests, potentially worth more than 150 million dollars at present
market values.
"The minister of Forests;, the Honorable E.B. Meagher, said today that
over a period of two or three years such a plague would defoliate mountain
ash forests so that survival of the trees is impossible. In tuna, the sur¬
vival of that part of the native wildlife which depends on a mountain ash
habitat is jeopardised. The threatened mountain ash is mostly healthy 30-
year old forest which has successfully been regenerated following complete
destruction of the original forest in the 1939 holocaust.
"Mr Meagher said that two Piper Pawnee aircraft, fitted with modern
spraying equipment, will operate from the Sumner liidge airstrip, five miles
from Powelltown. They will be in constant radio contact with ground units
at the airstrip and at control points in the areas being treated.
"To ensure accuracy in depositing the spray, pilots will be guided by
huge brightly coloured balloons floating just above the forest canopy. The
planes will fly only at 100 - 200 feet whilst on these flight paths. Because
of the mountainous nature of the country, only most experienced pilots can
be used in this; work.
"The insecticide being used is maldison, delivered as a microscopic¬
ally fine spray which will totally envelop individual leaves as it settles
in the forest foliage. This: method of application ensures maximum contact
with the stick insects, to which minute doses are fatal.
"Maldison has been selected because at this low dosage rate together
with the facta; that it has extremely low toxicity tG warm blooded animals
and that, having done its, job of killing the stick insects, it breaks down
rapidly under sunlight and plant action to a point where residues or side
effects are virtually impossible.
"Timing of the operation is critical. Over the next few weeks the
insects will mature to the egg laying stage- and it is essential that they
be killed before than. Winds of more than 2 n.p.h., or excessive rain, will
halt spraying operations, which must be; completed over the next four weeks."
"19/1/71"
5.
December, 1973 The Victorian Entomologist,
Report of the Excursion to the Whipstick Mallee. October 13 and 14, 1973 .
J.F. Hutchinson and S. McEvey.
The first of the Society's planned excursions to the Whipstick Mallee
took place in mid-October, with an attendance of about 20 members and
friends. Although it had been planned as, a two day excursion the majority
of the members, arrived on the Sunday.
The selected meeting point was Inglewood, situated about 46 1cm north¬
west of Bendigo. Surrounding vegetation is of the Mallee type with relative¬
ly short multi-stemmed Eucalypts ijredominating.
Dodder ( Cassytha sp.) was; present and a search commenced for - pupae of
Candalides hyacinthinns^ simplex , unfortunately without success; Tcny Bishop
however found two pupal cases. It was not very long before an adult was
taken, coming into the dodder. On further searching larger areas of dodder
were fpund and searching for pupae appeared a never-ending task.
In some of the cleared areas fiurema smilax (Small Grail Yellow), in
conjunction with Anaphaeis java teutonia (Caper White) were seen flying in an
easterly direction. A number were taken and seemed in remarkably fresh con¬
dition. It appears unlikely that the former is breeding in the area as no
soft-leaved Cassias were found.
The following Monday one of us (j.F.ll.) was at Cherokee, a small
town 8 km N. of Gisborne in the Riddell Ranges,collecting. Here A, java
were in large numbers, with up to six adults able to be taken at one¬
time. A single specimen of E. smilax was also taken. Again these butter¬
flies were flying in an easterly direction.
A light trap was set up on Saturday night. In terms of Lepidoptera .-
veny little came in, mainly Noctuidae. A caddis fly collected at the light
was given to Arturs Neboiss and has been identified as Oecetis sp.
On the Sunday the majority of members, arrived, their interests being
many and varied, making for a day of considerable; interest. Dr. Tim New,
from Latrobe Univursity Department of Zoology, was; interested in collecting
Psocoptcra (dooklice) and parasitic ilymenoptera, beating the foliage of
Eucalypts and Dodder to obtain specimens. Alan Yen, a post-graduate inter¬
ested in the ecology of Acacia Psyllidae (Hemiptera) was collecting spec¬
imens by beating the foliage of wattles, as was David Thomas from Melbourne
University, who was collecting Chyromyidae (Diptera).
Gordon Burns and his family were interested in Coleoptera, collecting
from the foliage of Eucalypts and Acacias. Representatives of the following
families were taken: Chrysomolidae, Curculionidae, Buprestidae, Scarabaeidae,
Cerambycidae, Coccinellidae, and Alleculidae (syn. Cistelidac).
A party coming with Nigel Quick were mainly after Lepidoptera, with
Charles McCiibbin collecting a variety of orders.
The Bendigo Field Naturalists Club have published in recent editions
of the "Bendigo Naturalist" a series of plant distribution maps of the
Whipstick Mallee north of Bendigo. Included amongst the recorded flora of
the area are Choretrum glomcratum and Santalum acuminatum (Bitter Quandong),
the host plant of Ogyris otanes and one of the hosts of Delias aganippe
respectively. The former was located together with ants and on one occasion
with immature jassids, very similar to the relationships as seen in the
Big Desert, but with the notable difference that the butterfly was appar¬
ently absoent from the plants.
The Victorian Entomologist
December, 1973
List of butterflies taken on the excursion:
Candalides hyacinthinus simp]ex (Common Dusky Blue)
Neolucia serpentata serpentata (Chequered Blue)
Zizina otis labradus (Common Grass Blue)
Eurema smilax (Small Grass Yellow)
Pieris rapae (Cabbage White)
Danaus chrysippus petilia (Lesser Wanderer)
Vanessa kershawi (Painted Lady)
V. iten (Australian Admiral)
Precis villida calybe (Meadow Argus)
Papilio demoleus sthenelus (Chequered Swallowtail)
- 00 O 00 -
Some Hecent Papers on the Lepidoptera
Compiled by J.F. Hutchinson
This is a list of some papers published over the past few years that may
be of particular interest to members interested in the Lepidoptera. Copies of
all of the articles listed are in the possession of the compiler, and if requests
are received photocopies will be supplied at a cost of 2 cents per page plus
postage, monies received being donated to the Society.
1. On Ornithoptera priamus caelostis Kothschild, demcphanes Fruhstcrfer and
boisduvali Montrouzier (Papilionidae)
by H. Borch and F. Schmid
J. lep. Soc. 27.(3): 196-205. (1973)
2. Sur Quelques Sous-especes d' Ornithoptera victoriae Gray (Papilionidae)
by F. Schmid
Naturaliste can. 97 : 467-475. ( 1970 )
3. Sur Quelques Sous-especes d 1 Qnnithoptera victoriae Gray (Papilionidae) II.
by F. Schmid
Can. fint. UP): 701-705. ( 1973)
4. The effect of Micro-cauterizing the A1 PPM (Gold Spot of Authors) on the
Pupa of the Monarch Butterfly, Danaus p. plexippus (Lepidoptera: Danaidae).
By F.A. Urquhart
Can. Ent. 104: 991-993. (1972)
5. Factors Determining Mating Frequencies in Some New World Butterflies and
Skippers.
by T.E. Pliske
Ann. Ent. Soc. Amer. hj_ 164-169. (1973)
6 . Host Plant Suitability and the Mechanism of Host Selection in Larvae of
Papilio machaon .
by C. Wikland
Ent. exp. & appl. Ji>: 232-242. (1973)
7. Clinal Variation in Pattern and Colour in Coastal Populations of the Butter¬
fly THsijMKme abeona (Donovan) (Lepidoptera: Satyrinae).
by A.M. Lucas
, Aust. J. Zocl. JJ: 37-48. ( 1969 )
8 . Genetic and Environmental Factors Influencing Pupal Colour in the Swallow¬
tail Butterflies Battus philenor (L.) and Papilio polytes (L.)
by C.A. Clarke and P.M. Sheppard.
J. Entom. (A) 46: 123-133.
(1972)
7.
December, 1973 The Victorian Entomologist
Notes on the Life Cycle of Cyclochila australasiae (llemiptera: Cicadidae) .
by C.W. McCubbin
In November 1966 a number of freshly-emerged specimens of Cyclochila
australasiae (Green Monday Cicada) were placed inside a netting enclosure
on the lower branches of a Eucalyptus nicholli in the writer's garden in
the Melbourne suburb of Box Hill North. r x'he E. nicholli had been planted
seven years before and had been under close observation since then. No cic¬
adas had been heard singing in the area during those seven years and trees
in the immediate vicinity had been planted after the E. nicholli . The cicadas
used in the experiment were obtained as they emei’ged from the ground in a
public park in the nearby suburb of Camberwell and from Ferntree Gully. Those
from Camberwell were all green in colour while those from Ferntree Gully were
all orange and black. About twelve cicadas were obtained from each site, the
number of males being slightly greater than the number of females. Mating
was encouraged by placing females next to singing males and mating occurred
both between individuals of the same colour and between individuals of diff¬
erent colours. Colour photographs were taken of some of the mating pairs.
On October 20th 1973 cicada shells were noted on the E. nicholli for
the first time since it was planted. Unfortunately the writer left on the
following day for a two week field trip and no observation was made of the
colour of the cicadas that had emerged. Wings of two green cicadas (apparent¬
ly eaten by birds) have since been found in the area but owing to almost con¬
tinuous cool weather no further emergence has been observed, nor has any
adult been heard singing. The experiment was unfortunately marred by the in¬
troduction of further cicadas to the area in the years following 1966 ; it
does however seem reasonable that the cicadas that emerged this year on the
E. nicholli did not have a life cycle of more than seven years.
- 00 O 00 -
ClMtECTlON
In Vol.3 No.4 of The Victorian Entomologist, page 14 (The Hymenoptera:
Ga&teruptiidae) the word " style " should be replaced by " terebra ".
- 00 O 00 -
The reason why this issue is so thin is that not enough articles are
being supplied to sustain the magazine. Eight now many articles are needed
for coming issues. If they are not received, the magazine will degenerate
to being a mere newsletter and will scarcely be worth publishing, especially
with the increasing postal charges. Original articles are preferred. Articles
by non-members are accepted, provided they are communicated to the Editor by
a member.
Articles should be completely legible, and must be double-spaced . It
would be appreciated if two copies were supplied (e.g. the original and a
carbon copy or photocopy), although this is not absolutely essential. Both
copies should be posted to the Editor.
- 00 O 00 -
The Editor and the Committee wish all members a happy Christmas and a
successful summer's collecting.
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INDEX TO THE "VICTORIAN ENTOMOLOGIST" VOL. 5.
Issue Number in parenthesis ( )
followed by page reference.
A.
B.
Beattie, S. (4): 6-10,
Besserdin, R.
Big Desert - September 15-17* 1975*
Bishop, A.D.
Breeding Victorian Butterflies, Notes on.
Brisbane Ranges, Excursion to.
Brisbane, Social Trip to.
Brou, V.A.
Butterflies, Miscellaneous Records.
Butterflies and Moths, Rutherglen District.
Bundaberg, Q., A Rare Sighting at.
< \0^ AL A.
(4):
12-16
(5):
15-18
7-15
2 ):
15
14
C.
Ca. ndalid.es consimilis goodingi (1): 7
Uan d alides he at hi heat hi '. Notes on early stages. (1): 10-12
UErysididae, "(Hymenopt era ) (4): 12-16
Collecting Lamps - A Warning. (5): 9
Crosby, D.E. (2): 5-6
Cyclochila australasiae. (Hemiptera:Cicadidae) (6): 7
Daly River Crossing, “N.T.: Butterflies collected, (5): 11-14
Dartmouth Dam Area, Ecological Survey of, (1): 7
Doleschallia bisaltide australis (2): 4
E.
Ecological Survey 7- of Dartmouth Dam Area (1): 7
Entomological Soc. of Viet.: History of, Part i. (4): 6- 10
Entomological Soc. of Viet.: History of, Part ii. (5): 6-8
Eurema_srn.ilax, A Spring Appearance of. (A note) (5): 20
Excursion to Brisbane Ranges Part i (2): 15-14
Excursion to Brisbane Ranges Part ii (5): 7- 8
Excursion to Phillip Island, 15 July 1973* (3)° 4- 5
Excursion to the Whipstick, Report of the, (6): 5“ 6
T?
i 1 .
Pood, Insects as,
G.
Gasteruptiidae (Hymenoptera)
H.
Hutchinson, J.F.
Hymenoptera, The, Part iii.
Hypolimnas alimena lamina.
(4): 10-12
(4): 12-16
(1):7, (4):10-11,(5):n-
-14. (6): 5-8
(4): 12-16
(2): 4
I.
Insects as Food (4): 10-11
L.
Le Sou&f, J.C. (5): 4-6
M.
McCubbin, C*.W.
MeEvey, S.F. (3): 6-7,
Miscellaneous Butterfly Records.
Moths & Butterflies, Rutherglen Dist., from 1967
Mount Stirling, List of Insect species taken
N.
Neboiss, A.
Neolucia ho ba rtensis hobartonsis , Early stages.
( 6 ):
( 6 ):
(3):
(3):
O):
6 —
0 .
Odonata. (3): 7~
P. _ _
Phillip Island-, Excursion to,
Pseuderanthemum sp. (Bot.)
(4): 4-
( 2 ):
Q.
Quick, W.N.B. (3) : 10, (1) :7, (1) :9, (1) : 10-12, (2) :7-1
R.
Rutherglen District, Notes on Moths & Butterflies. (5):
Relaxing Method, a Quick, (5):
S.
Sankowski, G. (2) :
Stained Butterfly Specimens, Cleaning. ( A note) (3):
T.
Toxi dia undersoni. Life History of the Butterfly, (2):
U.
Upton, M.S. (5):
W. .
Whipstick, Report of the Excursion to the, (6):
6 -
5-6
9
5 - 6
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