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 class insecta, 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!

What do Entomologists do?

The science of entomology provides many choices and opportunities for those interested in the diversity of nature. While some entomologists 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 developing software to aid farmers, foresters and others in predicting and managing insect pests. If you like working outside, a career in plant protection or forest entomology may be for you. If you enjoy chemistry and physiology, you could conduct research on 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, record and report on insect populations their growth and reproduction. If you have an interest in genetics, you can use biological and genetic technology to improve plant and animal resistance to insect pests. If you are interested in integrated pest management, you could help 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 insect zoo or museum, explaining the diversity of insects to visitors.

 If you are interested in the interesting career option of forensic entomology, 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 World

Food 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

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.

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, and less 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 and requires specialized training in computers, electron microscopes and other scientific equipments. Entomologists frequently combine their knowledge of chemistry, mathematics and physics with that of biology

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 advanced degrees. 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.

Forensic entomologists work closely with law enforcement officials, occasionally leading training courses.