218 
Mycologia 
hard volva naturally gives rise to the question of how that aper- 
ture which is seen in mature specimens originates. 
About the time the spores are mature, a round hole is bored in 
the crust-like volva by small weevils ( Plesiocis sp.), which in- 
vade the interior cavity of the fungus in great numbers and seem- 
ingly feed upon the spores. At least, they become covered with 
them and also invade the borings through the bark of the pines 
made by emerging adult bark-beetles ( Tomicus ), through which 
the sporophores of the fungus usually emerge. The weevil is 
hence an important agent in the dissemination of the spores and is 
responsible for the round apertures in the volva of mature speci- 
mens of Cryptoporus. 
Another beetle, one of the short-winged scavenger beetles (Pla- 
cusa despecta Er.) frequently takes refuge within the volva after 
the initial opening has been made by the weevil and may also be 
instrumental in the dissemination of the spores. 
I am indebted to Mr. D. B. Young of the New York State 
Museum for the insect determinations. 
H. D. House. 
