A review is presented discussing the evolution, life cycle, taxonomy, diversity and malacophagous predation and parasitism of the marsh flies. It focuses on the effects of the Sciomyzidae as natural biological control agents in the dynamics of terrestrial Gastropoda population. Marsh flies are shown to meet the requirements of a successful biological control agent. It is concluded that these dipterans are significant factors in gastropod population dynamics and provide pest suppression without adverse effects on native nontarget species.

The literature on robber fly pupae published primarily since 1972 is reviewed. Terminology used in morphological descriptions of pupal cases is compared and standardized, and some new terminology is used. A general description of asilid pupal cases is presented. Diagnostically useful characters are identified, and a consistent format for descriptions is presented. Pupal cases of 24 species are described for the first time, those of 13 species are redescribed, and additional comments are made on the pupal cases of 12 other species. Keys to species, genera, and higher categories are presented. Asilus lecythus Walker is transferred to the genus Machimus (new combination).

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Scudiere and E. H. Smith. New combinations and new se¬ nior synonyms were provided by R. J. Gagne (Cecidomyia grossulariae and C. thoracica), R. D. Gordon (Valgus serricollis),J. M. Kingsolver (Bruchus fabae), and T. L. McCabe (At¬ tain aurea and Geometra(l) siccifolia). The task of entering the manuscript on word processor diskettes was ably, effi¬ ciently, and cheerfully performed by two dedicated secre¬ taries, Cheryl Tribley and Gayle Femminella. Cover photo¬

Anyone who has visited New York's Capital District for more that a few days has heard about Nabokov's "sandy and flowery little paradise," known as the Albany Pine Bush. It is the subject of unending news coverage and continuing conflict between those with environmental leanings and those with business interests in the land area between the cities of Albany and Schenectady. Unfortunately many area residents' accumulated lifetime knowledge of this amaz¬ ing ecosystem consists of only a few hazy conceptions or misconceptions derived from televi¬ sion and newspaper stories. Their entire firsthand experience of the Pine Bush is derived from passing glimpses of pitch pines while speeding down New Karner Road or commuting on the Thruway between the Hudson and Mohawk, between Albany and Schenectady. Those who would take a more studied interest in Pine Bush plants and animals have been frustrated by lack of access to complete and reliable information.While developing an exhibit on the Pine Bush for the New York State Museum in 1996. I faced the daunting task of rooting out accurate and interesting details with which to present the story of Pine Bush life. Thus was born the idea for this guide to the biology and ecology of the Pine Bush. It was only later that I found noted in the 1993 Albany Pine Bush Management Plan (Environmental Design and Research, PC. 1993) that the general public often fails to appreciate the area's unique qualities because it lacks sufficient understanding of ecology. The authors of that plan found that more background information on pine barrens ecology, species adaptation, and natural forces would be useful. Likewise it is difficult to appreciate the area as a dynamic system without some knowledge of the geological and cultural histories that have helped to shape it. The authors of the Management Plan recommended that interpretive materials be devel¬ oped revolving around a clearly focused core of ecological principles that includes local human influences.This book began as a popular interpretation and field guide to the Pine Bush for those inter¬ ested in strolling the area's many paths. It quickly became clear that the need for access to infor¬ mation is so great among scientists, land managers, developers, journalists, and the general pop¬ ulation, that I was forced to reconsider the audience that I would serve. The result is a hybrid guide that interprets Pine Bush natural history for an audience of varied backgrounds and inter¬ ests. synthesizes recent research, and provides access to the growing body of literature.The importance of Don Rittner's Pine Bush: Albany's Last Frontier ( 1976) is in no way diminished. That book played a seminal role in swaying public opinion and sparking develop¬ ment of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, and it is a monument to Don's untiring zeal. Don laid the foundation from which I have worked. However, his book is long out of print, and informa¬ tion presented therein is sorely in need of updating. It is my hope that the following pages will stimulate new genera...