8 REPORT OF THE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH 



original research and for larger investigations of im- 

 por'vance to Indian agriculture generally. 



The work in the pot-culture house has led to im- 

 portant field experiments, the results of which are likely 

 to benefit cultivators at least in Behar in a very substantial 

 way. These field experiments are devised to show that 

 phosphatic manure can with economy and great advantage, 

 be used for certain soils and many crops, particularly in 

 parts of the Gangetic alluvium and especially in Behar. 



The Imperial Agricultural Chemist has a very im- 

 portant investigation in progress on the effect of soil or 

 manure on the composition of certain seeds. The results 

 already obtained are remarkable. In conjunction with 

 the Imperial Entomologist, Dr. Leather is investigating 

 the prevention of injury by weevils to wheat and other 

 grains when stored in bulk. This enquiry is of great 

 importance, particularly as it is probable that the American 

 " elevator system " of storing grain may be introduced into 

 India at least on an experimental scale. Mr. Annett has 

 conducted an interesting enquiry into the cause of the dark 

 colour of the black cotton soil. The results of this enquiry 

 are about to be published. 



Mycology. — Dr. Butler held charge of this section till 

 31st March 1909, when tlie Supernumerary Mycologist, Mr. 

 W. McRae, M.A., B.Sc, was appointed to officiate for him. 

 Mr. McRae arrived in India after deputation for six 

 months to the laboratorv of Professor von Tubeuf at 

 Munich. The transfer of the laboratories to the Phipps' 

 building has greatly facilitated the work of this section. 



Dr. Butler should be congratulated in regard to the 

 practical application of his work to the ordinary conditions 

 of Indian agriculture. 



'Hie requirements of provincial departments still con- 

 tinue to make heavy calls upon the time of the Imperial 

 Mycologist. Collections are being accumulated and worked 

 out with such voluntary assistance as can be got outside 



