1910.] Notes on Insect and Fungus Pests. 



921 



It is found in summer and autumn in pastures and under 

 scattered trees, where it sometimes forms large fairy-rings. 



It differs from the common mushroom in the flesh not 

 turning brown when broken, and in the gills remaining dry 

 when old. There is a prejudice against this mushroom in 

 many districts, but it is quite safe to eat, and is preferred by 

 some to the common mushroom. Many tons are sold in 

 London, and purchased presumably under the impression 

 that it is the common mushroom. 



Tufted Mushroom, Agaricus elvensis (Fig. 3). 



This mushroom grows in tufts or clusters. The cap is 

 hemispherical at maturity, the entire surface being broken 

 up into large brown scales on a whitish ground, margin 

 warted, 4 to 6 inches across; gills broad, brownish flesh- 

 colour, remaining dry ; stem 4 to 6 inches high, stout, more 

 or less swollen at the middle, bearing a large ring that is 

 warted on the under side. The flesh of the cap is about three- 

 quarters of an inch thick, and turns reddish-brown when cut. 



This may be recognised amongst the true mushrooms by 

 its tufted habit of growth. 



It is found on the ground under the drip of trees, more 

 especially under oak. 



The flavour is excellent, and is considered to be superior to 

 that of the common mushroom. An attempt might, with 

 advantage, be made to cultivate this species. 



Small Red Ant. — During recent months several complaints 

 have been received by the Board respecting the presence of 

 small red ants (Monomorium pharaonis) 

 Notes on Insect and in houses. These creatures are very 

 Fungus Pests. troublesome when once they have 

 gained a footing in a house, and are 

 extremely difficult to exterminate. They may, however, be 

 trapped by means of pieces of sweet or greasy substances, 

 such as sponge-cake, lard, liver, ham-bone, or meat, which 

 should be left exposed where the ants can easily reach them, 

 while all other kinds of food should be carefully covered up. 

 The insects, which will swarm over these traps, can either be 

 burnt with a taper, or the trap can be dropped into boiling 

 water or paraffin, or put in the fire. The traps must be 



