68 DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA : 



These beetles, in common with most species of the same 

 family, are night flyers. Upon emerging from the pupa, 

 in a mummy-like form of the perfect beetle, it ascends to 

 the tops of the tree, and there remains until the late twilight, 

 when it takes wing. Although the beetles may appear 

 scarce, they are nevertheless quite common, and are easily 

 attracted by a bright light. The larvse of the large kinds 

 of Uracanthus, at any rate, lie very close in their self- 

 constructed tunnel, and, upon being handled, they become 

 fairly lively, when exposed to either light or air. 



Fig. IV. shows a species which has lately come to light 

 in Victoria, although it has long been known in South 

 Australia. It is a very pretty and distinct kind. Our 

 plate shows the larva of one of the largest species at work. 

 I have lately received what appears to be a giant species 

 of Uracanthus from the scrubs of semi-tropical Queensland. 



The longicorn family includes in its ranks some of the 

 largest known beetles, the larvse of which are frequently 

 used by natives as food. A good female specimen of 

 Titanus giganteus from Cayenne will measure at least 

 9 inches in length of body, so it may be imagined what 

 damage these huge beetles do in the forests of tropical 

 countries. In Victoria, where a deal of timber comes in 

 from many parts of the world, there is a great danger of 

 some of the worst timber-borers being introduced by this 

 means, and several very destructive kinds have already 

 been found in the City. There should, therefore, be constant 

 vigilance by persons familiar with the insects, not only of 

 our own State, but with those of other countries also. 



Prevention and Remedies. 



On small areas, kerosene and a little oil of tar mixed 

 sprayed on to young or small trees will keep the female 

 from depositing her eggs, but the spraying will of course 

 have to be renewed. The beetles appear from December 

 to April as a rule, so this would be the best time to use the 



