INSECTS OF AGRICULTURAL AND HOUSEHOLD IMPORTANCE IN ALASKA WITH SUGGESTIONS FOR THEIR CONTROL

Abstract

In Alaska, as in every other agricultural area of the world, insect pests compete in many way with the farmer for the fruit of his labors. Under certain conditions many plants may be killed or consumed outright. More frequently the developing plants are weakened or stunted so that yields are reduced or quality is impaired. Insects also transmit and spread many diseases to which crops are subject. Finally, the mere presence of insects in or on the harvested crops, or the persistence of injuries inflicted earlier, reduces or destroys the quality and marketability of the product. Alaskan farmers and gardeners are fortunate that the number of insects injurious to their agriculture is at present very limited. However, as agriculture develops, as crops are diversified and expanded, and as quality standards rise, more and more insects are likely to become of economic importance, and thus require the application of improved methods of control.