18 BULLETIN 1429, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
SHIPMENTS 
Shipments of this parasite were made by collecting large numbers 
of Popillia in the field and forwarding them without delay. During 
the ocean voyage this material is held in cool storage at a temperature 
of 40 to 50° F. The transcontinental shipments are made by express, 
at normal car temperature, from Seattle, Wash., to Riverton, N. J. 
Material in refrigeration between these two points has given poor 
results as compared with material shipped at normal car temperature. 
On June 27, 1923, 4,000 beetles were shipped from Yokohama, 5 per 
cent of which were parasitized. Shipments made in 1924 proved 
successful and from these about 100 adults have been reared and 
liberated. 
LIFE HISTORY 
This tachinid is nocturnal in its habits, remaining quiet during the 
day concealed on the under surface of foliage of low-growing plants 
Fig. 16. — Ochromeigenia ormioides: A, first-stage larva; B, lateral view of head showing mouth 
parts, first-stage larva; C, mature larva; D, mouth parts, mature larva, dorsal view; E, lateral 
view of mouth parts, mature larva; F, right posterior spiracle, mature larva; G, right anterior 
spiracle, mature larva 
and in dense undergrowth. In large cages the flies frequently rest 
on the upper woodwork 5 feet above the ground. They become 
active at 6.30 to 7 p. m. during July. On account of their nocturnal 
habits and their attraction to light it is difficult to observe their 
normal actions. In nature this fly has been observed to feed on 
honeydew. 
The females deposit larvae rather than eggs. The exact method 
of placement of these in regard to the host and the manner of pene- 
tration of the larvae into the host have not been determined. Female 
flies when in cages with Popillia beetles manifest considerable interest 
in them by following them about with the antennas erect and abdomen 
curved slightly under and forward as if preparing to larviposit. Fre- 
quently they will sidestep in a circle around a beetle, investigating it 
with extended antennae; then they will run up over the beetle, 
