THE TERMITES OF AUSTRALIA

Abstract

UNDER the above title there has recently appeared a timely and much needed monograph*. The author, Mr. G. F. Hill, has been an active worker on termites for many years and has an unrivalled acquaintance with these insects in so far as Australia is concerned. There are many difficulties to be contended with in the study and investigation of termites, and it is for this reason that monographs are badly needed from nearly all parts of the world that are inhabited by these creatures. Excluding the United States, which has a relatively meagre termite fauna, Australia is to be commended in giving a leading hand by furthering publication of an account of her native species. But the availability of a competent authority is about two thirds the battle--other lands are not so far equally favoured. India, perhaps more than any other part of the British Commonwealth of Nations, needs a proper monograph on her rich and vast termite fauna, that is productive of almost incredible damage to human effort. A sound monograph on this order is worth many of those on the more obscure orders, and it is to be hoped that a competent worker will be forthcoming one day, not too far distant, who will cope o with the task.