294 



tention before closing' these remarks, and that is in relation 

 to the male insect. As it is of no consequence about 

 keeping the male from ascending the trees ; those who 

 have written upon the habits of the Canker Worm have 

 neglected to say anything regarding him. I should like 

 to have some one who understands this matter explain the 

 manner in Avhich they get out of the gi-ound, and how they 

 appear when first seen. 



F. W. Putnam said that there were at least three species 

 of insects known as Canker Worms. Two of these belong 

 to the genus of the true Canker Worm Anisopterix and are 

 very much alike in habits and in their general appearance. 

 The third species is larger and the larva is of a yellow color. 

 There are several enemies to these pests ; of these the large 

 handsome ground beetle, the mason was]> and the ichneu- 

 mon fly called Platygaster, which lays its eggs in those of 

 the Canker Worm, and as the young Platygaster feeds upon 

 the Canker Worm's eggs their develo[)cment is secured at 

 the exi>ensc of the latter. 



Remarks were then made by Messrs. C. C. Beaman, Ord- 

 way, J. M. Ives, and Putnam on the geographical distribu- 

 tion, of the Canker Worm and its disapj)earance in certain 

 seasons, «frc. The opinion prevailed that this State is nearly 

 its northern linn't. 



On motion of Mr. Beaman, 



Voted That the thanks of the Institute be given to Mr. Ord- 

 way for his useful, and. instructive remarks on the subject of 

 Canker AVorms. 



On motion of Mr. James Kimball, 



Voted ^ That the officers of the Army and Navy stationed 

 in this city and vicinity, or at home on furlough, be invi- 

 ted to visit the Institute at such times as may 1)0 convenient. 



Adjourned. 



