102 



would give good results in controlling the pest. 

 Thrips and red spider may both be controlled by one or 

 two applications of sulphur and lime applied dry, as a 

 dust, and it is likely that this would also have a useful 

 effect in connexion with the flea beetle. These pests are 

 more injurious in dry weather, and the adventof rains 

 will often cause great reduction in their numbers. 



THE SWEET POTATO 



WEEVIL (Cylas formicarius, Fabr.). 

 Coleoptera. 



This insect, which occurs in the southern United 

 States, Jamaica and British Guiana does not seem to 

 be known at present in the Lesser Antilles, although it is 

 reported as having occurred formerly in Barbados. It is 

 widely distributed throughout the tropics of the world, 

 It attacks sweet potatoes in a manner somewhat similar 

 to the scarabee ; but the appearance of the insect 

 is quite different, as will be seen by reference to the 

 illustration (Fig. 115). This insect is mentioned here in 

 order that planters throughout the West Indies may be 

 able to identify the pest if it should appear. 



Fig. 115. Sweet potato weevil. 

 Larra ; pupa; and adult. Enlarged. (From U. S. Dept. Agric.) 



