ENTOMOLOGY. 179 



matter. The law provides for the compulsory fumigation of all imported treesand 

 woody plants. 



Formaldehyde fumes and steam according to the method of Esmarch, 

 Kistek and Trautmann (Zlschr. Hyg. u. Tnfectionskrank., 46 {1904), No. 3, pp. 

 379-398). — The authors tested Esmarch's method, which consists in a combination 

 of a disinfectant, such as formaldehyde, heat, and vacuum. Under ordinary condi- 

 tions formaldehyde funics were found to have little penetrating power. Insects such 

 as (leas, Hies, and bedbugs were killed when the temperature reached 60-70° C. in 

 theroom, but r< niained alive at 40° C. Moist heat combined with formaldehyde fumes 

 seemed to be very effective in destroying bacteria and household insects. 



Directions for mailing insects, E. D. Sanderson {Texas Sta. Circ. o, /*. 1). — 

 Specific directions are given regarding the manner of packing and shipping insects so 

 as to comply with the regulation of the Post-Office Department and so as to secure 

 tin safe arrival of the insects. 



The study of "insects" in the public schools, T. B. Symons {Maryland Sta. 

 Circ. Bui. 55, pp. 13, figs. 15).— In the author's opinion entomology is peculiarly 

 adapted to till a plain' in nature study in the public schools. The variety of species 

 is very great ami material for study is easily obtained. The general biological laws 

 may be conveniently studied in insects. Directions are given for collecting, preserv- 

 ing, and studying insects. The bulletin is intended as a guide to teachers in the col- 

 lection and study of insects and in class-room demonstrations. 



The destruction of white ants, A. Loir ( Agr. I'm/. Pays < hauds, .: ( 1903 ), No. 13., 

 pp. 19-31, figs. 4). — The various forms of individuals in white-ant colonies are described 

 in detail, ami notes are given on the habits, natural enemies, and means of combat- 

 ing these pests. Bisulphid of carbon and S0 3 are recommended for destroying the 

 insects in their tunnels. 



The botfly, R. E. Weir [Jour. Dept. Agr. West Australia, (1904), No. 1, pp. 17, 

 IS). — This insect appears to lie increasing in numbers in West Australia. The symp- 

 tomsof infestation are briefly described. Formulas are given for medicinal treatment 

 of infested horses. 



Preventive and remedial measures against mosquitoes, C. B. Simpson 

 {Transvaal Agr. Jour., 2 {1904), No. 7, pp. 354-357).— The author recommends the 

 usual remedies, such as drainage, use of kerosene, and screens for destroying larval 

 and adult mosquitoes. 



Fighting mosquitoes in California, II. A. Crafts {Arner. Inventor, 12 (1004), 

 No. 14, j). 310). — Brief notes on the work of the California Experiment Station in 

 exterminating mosquiti ies. 



Beekeeping, R. West (Jour. Jamaica Agr. Soc.,8 (1904), No. 6, pp. 223-226): — 

 The author discusses (he characteristics and comparative advantages of different races 

 of bees and the management of queens. 



Bee keeping, R. West (Jour. Jamaica Agr. Sac, 8 (1904), No. 7, pp. 282-284). 

 Attention is called to the importance of a proper selection of bees in order to obtain 

 vigorous colonies with long-lived individuals and increased honey-gathering power. 



Bee notes, J. Sutton (Jour. Dept. Agr. West. Australia, (1904), No. 3, pp. 145- 

 147). — The past season has been unfavorable to honey production on account of the 

 protracted drought and prevalence of bee diseases. In some localities the lice hives 

 were invaded by ants. It was found to lie a comparatively simple matter to destroy 

 these insects in their nests. 



Means of improving the races of bees, E. Van Hay ( Rev. Gen. Agron. [Louwiri], 

 LJ | 1004), No. 1, pp. ■&?-#?).— Honey production may be increased by proper selec- 

 tion of bees of a given race, by judicious crossing of different races, and by the use 

 of improved apparatus. Brief mention is made of the chief desiderate in a profitable 

 swarm of bees. Notes are also given on experiments for the purpose of increasing 

 the length of the tongue of bees. 



