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22 INSECTS AFFECTING HEALTH OF MAN OR ANIMALS. 
tions, such as a weak solution of ammonia or permanganate of 
potash. The bites of certain other spiders are also quite poisonous, 
especially a little black spider with a red spot on the abdomen (Lathro- 
dectes mactans Fab.). 
“CHIGGERS,” OR “RED BUGS”! 
Great annoyance is often caused by the attacks of microscopic 
creatures known as ‘‘chiggers,”’ ‘‘red bugs,”’ or harvest mites. Chig- 
gers are most abundant along the borders of streams and along the 
edges of forests, and one should avoid walking m such places, especially 
in shady locations. They burrow under the skin and cause itching 
and inflammation. The irritation naturally leads to scratching the 
affected parts with the finger nails, thus abrading the skin and 
causing infection. 
Soon after the chiggers bore under the skin a small red spot appears 
(evidently the mite itself gorged with blood), after which the sur- 
rounding surface becomes congested in from 1 to 12 hours after 
exposure. Prompt treatment is essential. The inflamed spots are 
apt to be mistaken for hives, rash, or mosquito bites, and neglected 
until treatment is difficult. 
The best preventive is sulphur, and the body should be rubbed 
carefully with flowers of sulphur. Prompt bathing, with liberal 
application of soap, will usually give relief. 
Affected parts should be bathed with a moderately strong solution 
of ammonia, about 10 to 20 per cent. To relieve the mflammation 
alkalies like ammonia and bicarbonate of soda (better known as 
cooking soda or saleratus) must be used. In severe cases dilute 
tincture of iodine, followed by carbolated vaseline or a little collodion, 
may be applied. 
If it be found necessary to camp on ground known to be infested 
with chiggers, the vegetation should be promptly mowed and 
removed. 
WASPS, BEES, AND ANTS. 
Among the most severe pains inflicted by insects are those caused 
by the stings of bees, wasps, hornets, and ants. One of the pre- 
dominating insects of the Texas border is the so-called Texas harvest 
ant (Pogonomyrmex barbatus Mayr), a large red species which lives 
in large colonies. The opening to their nests usually consists of a 
crater of pebbles and the hole itself is quite large. The ants move 
from these craters in a continuous stream during the sunny part of 
the day, usually moving along definite paths. When disturbed they 
fight with vigor. A person accidentally standing in their path will 
quickly be attacked. The sting is extremely painful. 
1 Trombidium spp. 
