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What is Entomology?

At its most basic level, entomology is a science that deals with the study

of insects and related animals. Insects are members of the animal classinsecta, by far the largest group of animals in the world. While we have

identified over one million different species of insects, some experts

believe that there may be as many as 30 million different species of

insects in the world that have not been discovered and identified yet.

Entomologists study insects and their relationships to the environment,

humans and other organisms. Every year, entomologists make great

contribution to:

Agriculture Biology Chemistry Criminology and forensics Ecology Economics Food supplies Forestry Genetics Human health International trade Pharmaceuticals Robotics Veterinary medicine And more!

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What do Entomologists do?

The science of entomology provides many choices and opportunities

for those interested in the diversity of nature. While someentomologists work in the field, others work in the laboratory or class

room, and others find niches in regulatory entomology or pest

problems.

If you like to work with computers, there are jobs developingsoftware to aid farmers, foresters and others in predicting and

managing insect pests.

If you like working outside, a career in plant protection or forestentomology may be for you.

If you enjoy chemistry and physiology, you could conduct researchon pheromones, chemicals that insect emit as signals to other

insects of the same species, to discover ways to control insect

pests.

If you like mathematics and statistics, you can monitor, recordand report on insect populations their growth and reproduction.

If you have an interest in genetics, you can use biological andgenetic technology to improve plant and animal resistance to

insect pests.

If you are interested in integrated pest management, you couldhelp prevent disease and property loss due to insects, and protect

food, fuel, and fiber.

If you enjoy working with the public, you could work at an insectzoo or museum, explaining the diversity of insects to visitors.

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If you are interested in the interesting career option of forensicentomology, you could help solve crimes by examining insects

found at crime scenes.

Why study insects?

Many insect species are readily accessible, inexhaustible resources to

use in developing a better scientific understanding of the world. Insects

outnumber humans by about 1.6 billion to one worldwide. Insects are

found in every terrestrial and freshwater ecosystem, and are the most

numerous and diverse forms of life on Earth. In one way or another, all

forms of life depend on insects.

The study of insects helps us understand the biology and physiology of

humans and other animals. Some insects are easy to maintain in the

laboratory or classroom, and their short life cycles make them excellent

subjects for research or teaching.

Study Insects to feed a Hungry WorldFood shortages exit in many parts of the world. About 40 percent of the

worlds food production is lost to insect pests every year. Entomological

research and educational programs are essential in solving these

important problems. Although reducing loss due to insect pests will not

automatically solve the worlds hunger problems, entomology

continues to be a key element in the solution.

Study insects to preserve the diversity of

life

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Insects are an integral part of the ecological web. Throughout the

world, the loss of habitat has caused the extinction of many organisms,

including insects. By identifying endangered insect species and studying

their habitats, entomologists can help restore threatened ecosystems.

Entomologists work toward protecting the environment by helping to

produce dependable crops throughout the United States and the world.

Tropical rainforests present special problems and opportunities for

entomologists. Rainforests are among the oldest and most complex

terrestrial ecosystems, but they are rapidly disappearing. About half of

all plant and animal species may be found only in tropical rainforests.

Of the millions of insect species that remain undiscovered, most may be

found in rainforests, and their genetic diversity may include many

beneficial species. Entomologists must discover these species before

they cease to exist and find ways to preserve insect habitats for future

generations.

Study insects to prevent the spread of

disease

A century ago, disease such as malaria and yellow fever were major

problems in North America. Now, they are only minor threats to public

health.

Our knowledge of the cause and means of controlling epidemics of

insect-borne diseases has increased due to the hard work and

dedication of entomologists. However, much work remains to be done.

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Few problems present greater challenges to medical and veterinary

entomologists than insects that transmit diseases.

Vast areas of the world are still dominated by arthropods that transmit

parasites that cause diseases such as yellow fever, river blindness and

sleeping sickness. Malaria and tick-borne diseases are of worldwide

importance.

The tragedy of death due to insect-borne diseases impacts economies

as well as families. In North America alone, millions of dollars are spent

each year to control flies, grubs, lice, mosquitoes, and ticks on humans

and animals. Entomologists are seeking new, ecologically sound, andless expensive ways to prevent these losses.

Entomologists work closely with communities to manage infestations of

cockroaches, flies, lice and mosquitoes. Houseflies, for example, are an

ever-present public health menace. These pests can spread organisms

that cause typhoid fever, cholera and dysentery.

Prepare for the challenge

If you want a career in entomology, you must become familiar with the

basic tools of science, including biology, chemistry, ecology, genetics,

mathematics, physics and statistics. You also should develop your

writing and communication skills.

Much of modern entomological research is highly technical andrequires specialized training in computers, electron microscopes and

other scientific equipments. Entomologists frequently combine their

knowledge of chemistry, mathematics and physics with that of biology

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and ecology to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the insects

they study.

In college, you should expand your foundation in these sciences and

develop skills in many areas that support entomology. A bachelors

degree that includes course work in entomology should qualify you for

some positions at chemical companies, government agencies, or pest

management industries.

However, advanced degrees are required for many positions in

entomology. You will need a masters or doctoral degree to teach or

conduct research. Many positions in industry also require advanceddegrees.

A career in entomology requires dedication and direction. You should

keep in mind that the requirements and skills vary widely depending on

specialization. Start making plans now. Additional information is

available from college education counselors university entomology

departments, and entomologists at government agencies and private

companies.

Study insects to fight crime

In another example of how entomology impacts all of our lives, many

police departments use forensic entomological techniques to help solve

crimes. Insect activity at a crime scene can tell investigators important

details that often help to close a case, such as length of time that a

body was exposed to the elements and whether or not the body has

been moved. The field of forensic identification relies heavily on the

accurate identification of insects and their level of development.

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Forensic entomologists work closely with law enforcement officials,

occasionally leading training courses.