248 CORN 



iirst generation live chiefly on the leaves and young shoots of the corn 

 plant; the larvae of the second generation live in the tassels, silks, 

 and young ears ; while the larvae of the third generation will attack the 

 maturing ears. 



Prevention and Remedy. This pest has not as yet been success- 

 fully combated. Fall plowing destroys a great many of the pupae, 

 in which stage hibernation occurs. Where corn follows corn such a 

 practice cannot be followed except in a limited way. The Kentucky 

 Experiment Station has conducted experiments with poisons in com- 

 bating the ear worm, but the result of their work does not justify the 

 use of such a treatment. 



INSECTS INJURIOUS TO STORED CORN 



THE ANGUMOIS GRAIN MOTH (Sitotroga cerealella). The 

 adult is a small, light-gray moth, with a wing expanse of one- 

 half inch. The eggs are of a pale red color. The larva which has 

 a brown head, tapers gradually, being covered with numerous 

 hairs. The pupa is of a darker brown color. The moth deposits the 

 egg on the grains of corn or wheat, either in the field or in the granary, 

 usually the latter. The eggs are laid between the rows of corn. In 

 4 or 5 days the larva hatches out and lives upon the germ and 

 starchy part of the kernel. In 5 weeks it has attained its growth. 

 It then burrows to the crown of the kernel, makes an opening, seals 

 it over, and pupates for a few days. The adult comes out through 

 this opening and the life cycle is complete, requiring less than 6 

 weeks. The length of time depends upon the temperature. Warm 

 spring days bring out the imagos very rapidly. 



Prevention and Remedy. The careful removal of all refuse and 

 old corn each year during the summer will prevent the moths from 

 having anything upon which to deposit their eggs. Carbon-bisulphide 

 (CS2), a colorless, very volatile liquid, is the most effective means 

 of destruction of the moths. This should never be breathed by man 

 or other animals, and a lighted match should never be brought in 

 contact with the gas. In a moderately tight bin one pound of the 

 bisulphide will effectively fumigate one hundred bushels of grain. The 

 compound vaporizes rapidly, and being heavier than air, it soon sinks 

 and becomes thoroughly diffused throughout the bin. If the sulphide 

 is simply placed in shallow pans on top of the grain the results will 

 be accomplished. Where seed is racked or hung up, the pans must 

 be elevated above the grain which is to be fumigated. Several ap- 

 plications may be necessary to destroy all the moths as they appear 



