Science Studies
p. 36 · Read in the full issue
The Ants
In The Solomons
ONE of the bugbears of copra pro ducers in the Solomons, pre mature nutfall, still is providing the Territory’s agricultural officers with some problems.
The trouble is connected with the ant population. Certain ants at tack the immature nuts, in the head of the coconut palm. Certain other ants attack the nut-eaters. Control of premature nutfall therefore de pends upon the balances achieved between various species of ants; and the Government entomologist there fore (according to the High Com missioner’s annual review) carries on investigations under three heads: ® The “natural” changes in ant populations and their causes. • The distribution of the species of ants in relation to premature nutfall. • Collection of data on ants and other insects, and on certain plants concerned, so that study of the pro blem can continue and be developed.
The entomologist is being provided with a “spinal extending ladder” to facilitate his study of ants and
other insects in the crowns of thi palm trees.