Entomological Notes. 325 



nonsense about the harm these small bodies do, and the diseases 

 the j cause. In the meanwhile let us not underrate the harm done 

 by fangi, while deprecating all attempts to make them responsible 

 for every disease which may make its appearance ; and here, as 

 in other things, a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, for it is 

 only by cautious and careful research that we reach results that 

 are really valuable, either scientifically or for practical application. 



Cut- Worms. There are various kinds of worms embraced in 

 this general class, differing but slightly in size, form and in their 

 habits. The appellation, "cut-worm," is given to them from the 

 manner in which they attack the plants upon which they feed. 

 In Europe they are called surface worms or grubs, because they 

 are found in the destructive period of their existence near the 

 surface of the ground. The worms, or caterpillars are stout in 

 form, of a dusky, greasy color, varied in shadings and markings, 

 in the different species, and also in the individuals of the same 

 species. This variation has led to some confusion of names and 

 classification, but instead of denoting different kinds, is usually 

 to be attributed to the difference in kind, color or amount of food 

 of which they have partaken, or to the different stages of growth 

 or maturity. The first indication of their presence is usually the 

 wilting or falling down of the plants in the field or garden. On 

 examination the stalk will be found to have been cut off, or nearly 

 so, at or near the surface of the ground. No worm will be in 

 sight, but on carefully removing the loose dirt near the plants, a 

 short, thick worm, apparently lifeless, rolled up in a circular 

 form, will usually be found. This inactive, torpid condition, is 

 wholly assumed on being disturbed, for in their natural 

 movement^ they are quite active and lively. There is 

 some difference in the part of the plant which these cater- 

 pillars will attack. "While some cut off the main stalk 

 of the plant below the surface, there are others which 

 will cut it off at the surface, or even above it. Others will climb 

 the stalk and cut off the leaves to devour them at their leisure. 

 Others will climb shrubs and vines, rose bushes, and even 

 standard fruit trees, and eat out the flower and terminal buds, 



