Physiologj^: functions of normal oi^ganisms 



Ecology: habits, geographic distribution, and population 

 fluctuations' of ;^rine pests 



Oceanography; physical, chemical, and biological character- 

 istics of infested areas. 



Organic materials: tropical Hoods, protective coatings, etc. 



Interest is not limited to the shipworm; he is merely the start. Before 

 he has been finally eliminated as an eneny, attention will be turned to 

 the other "borers," as scientific interest among research investigators 

 and availability of funds make it possible. 



To return to an earlier statement, ONR has a definite interest in the 

 problem of the prevention of the deterioration of marine structures, A 

 number of angles of attack are proposed and the problem is considered to 

 be 



1. to learn why and how marine organisms attach themselves 

 to or damage woodj 



2. to learn vfhy and how such chemical complexes as creosote 

 protect wood from attack; 



3. to synthesize or develop agents or methods of protection 

 which will keep the pests av/ay from wooden structures. 



ONR's objective is to prevent deterioration whether such prevention is 

 obtained mechanically, biologically, or through toxic action. 



C - 5 



