1070 
CACAO INSECTS. 
Until more attention is given to the cultivation of the cacao tree 
(Theobroma cacao Linn.) in these Islands, we need have no fear of any 
serious insect pests, although there are some few insects which claim 
our attention even now. 
The longhorn borer of the cacao (? Huclea sp.) is by far the most 
serious pest with which we have to contend, while plant lice and termites 
of several species require, by reason of their persistent attacks, the closest 
vigilance upon the part of the owner of a cacao orchard. 
TOBACCO INSECTS. 
Tobacco grown under cover in the Cagayan Valley in northeastern 
Luzon suffered considerably two years ago from the attacks of plant lice 
(Aphidide spp.), but these pests were successfully combated by the com- 
bined use of weak kerosene emulsion and fumigation with dried leaves, the 
latter operation, performed at night, being the more effectual of the two. 
During the past season no word has come from that region with reference 
to further attacks by these insects. 
Stored tobacco, in the leaf, and the manufactured caiely in the shape 
of cigars and cigarettes, in the factories in Manila suffered to some extent 
in the early part of 1905 from the attack of the cigarette beetle 
(Lasioderma serricorne Fabr.), but greater care in preparation and 
handling, together with methods looking to the screening of rooms where 
the leaf was handled and the cigars and cigarettes were made and 
packed, seems to have effectually reduced this troublesome little pest; at 
least we hear no further complaint of its ravages. 
In all parts of the Islands where tobacco has been seen growing the 
work of a small tree cricket (? Parawcanthus sp.) has been noted on the 
leaves and seed capsules. The males of this insect cut circular holes in 
the leaves, over which they rest while stridulating, in this way apparently 
giving greater resonance to their notes. Individuals of both sexes, as 
well as the young, eat large holes in the nearly ripe seed capsules, causing 
a great loss of seeds. No measures have been tried with the view of rid- 
ding the plants of this pest, but its ravages must cause considerable 
damage to leaf to be used as wrapper. 
TERMITES AND ANTS. 
Like all tropical countries, the Philippines have their full mete of 
white ants and “just ants.” The former, as is well known, are among 
the most destructive pests with which civilization is burdened in warm 
regions. They destroy everything vegetable with which they come in 
contact, excepting a few of the native Philippine woods such as molave 
(Vitex littoralis Decne.) and one or two others. Nothing is safe from 
‘their attacks wherever it may be placed. I know from an all too sad 
