A Brief History of Insect Pest Control in the Edo Period (1603–1866) in Japan

Abstract

Dealing with the control measures against insect pests applied during the Edo Period, the present paper gives mainly a historical review of protection and eradication methods, and a list of both organic and inorganic materials used for the purposes is attached. It also mentions how Anguilla japonica TEMMINCK et SCHLEGEL (Anguilidae) were widely used to control insect pests, as well the origin and process of dissemination of the “oil dropping method” applied throughout the country. Reference is made to the latter, which had been the most effective way of leafhopper and planthopper control for nearly 250 years, by quoting Chinese literature to explain that it was not a Japanese idea originally but developed from practical knowledge introduced to Japan from China. © 1978, Pesticide Science Society of Japan. All rights reserved.