1908.] Insect, Fungus, and other Pests. 



505 



netting. On the other hand, if rabbits are not only " kept 

 under," but exterminated, which is not impracticable, no 

 expense need be incurred in planting any species except larch, 

 since natural reproduction from parent standards will carpet 

 the open spaces with seedlings. 



The condition of a large proportion of woodland being of 

 very similar character to that under review it is believed 

 that increased production may generally be attained by 

 treatment on similar lines. Soil, situation and climate will 

 indicate the species to be profitably planted, and where 

 conditions are favourable ash is the most profitable standard. 

 It is, however, impossible in a short paper to deal with the 

 varied circumstances that may be encountered, enough having 

 been said to indicate generally the objects to be kept in view 

 and the means by which they may be attained. 



A description and coloured illustration of a poisonous 

 fungus, Amanita phalloides, which had been prepared for issue 

 in this number has been unavoidably held over owing to a 

 delay in printing the coloured plate. 



Moths. — Potato Moths— Enquiries have been made as to a 

 pest termed the " potato moth. " It may be said that there is no 

 moth to which this term generally applies, 

 Notes on Insect, but the caterpillars of several moths 

 Fungus and other attack the potato. The caterpillars of the 

 Pests. Death's Head Moth (Acherontia atropos) 



hide or remain motionless during the 

 day and feed at night on the potato leaves, &c. These 

 caterpillars attain 4 or 5 in. in length, are lightish green in 

 colour, and bear seven purplish streaks slanting across the 

 sides. Numerous black spots occur on the back and a row 

 of black tubercles along each side. They have sixteen legs 

 and a hard crinkled tail. They are seldom very harmful, and 

 are not at all common. 



The caterpillars of the Rosy Rustic Moth (Hydraecia micacea) 

 feed on various plants, and have now and again been reported 

 as infesting potatoes. They are very harmful, as they tunnel 

 the stems and so cause the death of the shoot. 



