THE STEM EELWORM. 3 



varied nature, and eachr year great losses are suffered by the depre- 

 dations of insects and other animals. The large area under 

 observation makes it quite impossible for one individual to keep 

 in touch with the various outbreaks, or to learn of such in time to 

 warn agriculturists and others of threatened attacks. 



" In order to make my work on Economic Zoology of greater 

 practical value, and to bring the same into closer relations with 

 those whom it primarily concerns, I desire to enlist the sympathies 

 and services of a few more voluntary observers in different parts 

 of the Midlands, who would be willing to send in short weekly 

 reports from March to June, and later less frequently. Such 

 reports would be of great value collectively, as indicating the 

 abundance of any particular insect or insects, the extent of their 

 depredations, the plants affected, means of distribution, and causes 

 facilitating the spread of insect and other pests. 



" It is specially desired to obtain the services, observations, and 

 experiences of those practically acquainted with insects and other 

 agricultural pests. 



" Each worker will receive due credit for all observations, etc., 

 and a copy of all future Reports; further, all inquiries for informa- 

 tion will be willingly answered. Appropriate stationery and 

 stamped and addressed envelopes will be supplied to those 

 selected." 



Although somewhat late in the year when this reached the 

 notice of those likely to be of service, two or three workers 

 responded, and their reports, though few, have been most helpful. 

 I would particularly mention the excellent work that is being done 

 by Mr. J. G. Blakey, of Redditch, Mr. F. H. Brownhill, of Spark- 

 brook, and Mr. Herbert Thompson, of Sparkhill. 



THE STEM EELWORM. 



Tylenchiis devastatrix, Kuhn. 



During the past year this pest has been particularly prevalent. 

 The following plants have been attacked and forwarded by 

 different correspondents: Hyacinth, narcissus, begonia, pelar- 

 gonium, dahlia, pansy, various primulas, etc. 



LIFE-HISTORY. 



The adult worm varies in length (i to 1.5 millim.). but 

 roughly may be stated as about the twenty-fifth of an inch. Viewed 

 under the microscope, it is seen that the tail end is slightly more 

 pointed than the mouth end. Within the narrow gullet is a 

 sharply pointed dart, by means of which it pierces the plant tissues. 



The eggs, which are deposited in the tissues of the infected 

 plant, are an oblong or oval shape, and the young worms or larvae 

 which hatch out from these resemble the parent, externally differing 

 only in size. Before attaining the size of the parent, the larva 

 passes through a series of moults. 



