Entomology, Ornithology & Herpetology: Current Research
Open Access

Insects: An Introduction to Entomology

Shahrukh Yezan^{* *}Correspondence: Shahrukh Yezan, Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Kisii University, Kisii, Kenya, Tel: 9036012321, Email:

Author info »

Introduction

Entomology is the scientific study of insects, their biology, behavior, and classification. Insects are one of the most diverse groups of animals on earth, with over one million known species. They play a crucial role in many ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and prey for other animals. Despite their small size, insects are also important in human society as pests, vectors of disease, and sources of food and medicine [1].

Insects belong to the phylum arthropoda, which also includes spiders, scorpions, and crustaceans. Arthropods are characterized by their segmented bodies, jointed appendages, and exoskeletons. Insects are further classified into the class Insecta, which is characterized by their three part bodies (head, thorax, and abdomen), six legs, and wings (in most species) [2].

Insects are found in almost every habitat on earth, from deserts to rainforests, and from the depths of the ocean to the tops of mountains. They have adapted to survive in a wide range of environmental conditions, from extreme temperatures to low oxygen levels. Insects have also evolved a variety of defensive mechanisms, such as camouflage, mimicry, and venomous stings [3].

Description

Roles of ecological process

Insects play a vital role in many ecological processes. They are important pollinators for many plant species, including many of the crops that humans rely on for food. Without insect pollinators, the yields of many crops would be significantly reduced. Insects also play a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter, which helps to recycle nutrients in ecosystems. Insects are also a major food source for many other animals, including birds, mammals, and fish [4-6].

Significances in insect’s entomology

Despite their ecological importance, insects can also be significant pests in human society. Insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and ticks can transmit a wide range of diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, and lyme disease. Insects such as termites and carpenter ants can cause significant damage to buildings and other structures. Insect pests can also damage crops, leading to significant losses in agricultural productivity.

Insects have also played a significant role in human society throughout history. Many cultures have used insects for food and medicine. Insects such as ants and bees have been domesticated for their ability to produce food products such as honey and silk. Insects have also been used as a source of dye for fabrics and as a component of traditional medicines. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of insects as a sustainable source of protein for human consumption [7].

The study of insects, or entomology, is a complex and diverse field that encompasses many different areas of research. Entomologists study the biology and behavior of insects, as well as their interactions with other organisms and their environment. They also study the classification and evolution of insect species, as well as their economic and ecological significance.

Conclusion

One of the key areas of research in entomology is the study of insect behavior. Insects exhibit a wide range of behaviors, including mating, feeding, and defense. Many insects also exhibit complex social behavior, such as the complex colony structures of ants and bees. The study of insect behavior can help us to understand how insects interact with each other and with their environment, and can also provide insights into the behavior of other organisms.

Another area of research in entomology is the study of insect ecology. This includes the study of the interactions between insects and their environment, as well as the roles that insects play in ecological processes. Entomologists also study the impact of human activities on insect populations and the ecosystems they inhabit.

References

1. Asmare K, Sheferaw D, Aragaw K, Abera M, Sibhat B, Haile A, et al. Gastrointestinal nematode infection in small ruminants in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Trop. 2016;160:68-77.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar]

2. Regassa F, Molla A, Bekele J. Study on the prevalence of cystic hydatidosis and its economic significance in cattle slaughtered at Hawassa municipal Abattoir, Ethiopia. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2010;42(5):977-984.

   [Google Scholar]

3. Ramajo V, Oleaga A, Casanueva P, Hillyer GV, Muro A. Vaccination of sheep against Fasciola hepatica with homologous fatty acid binding proteins. Vet Parasitol. 2001;97(1):35-46.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar]

4. Okewole EA, Ogundipe GA, Adejinmi JO, Olaniyan AO. Clinical evaluation of three chemoprophylactic regimes against ovine helminthosis in a Fasciola endemic farm in Ibadan, Nigeria. Isr J Vet Med. 2001;56(1):17-24.

   [Google Scholar]

5. Mas CS, Bargues M. Human Liver Flukes: A Review. Res Rev Parasitol. 1997;57:145-218.

   [Google Scholar]

6. Wamae LW, Hammond JA, Harrison LJ, Onyango-Abuje JA. Comparison of production losses caused by chronic Fasciola gigantica infection in yearling Friesian and Boran Cattle. Trop Anim Health Prod. 1998;30(1):23-30.

   [Google Scholar]

7. Urquhart GM, Armour J, Duncan JL, Dunn AM, Jennings FW. Veterinary Parasitology. Sci Res. 1996:181-188.

   [Google Scholar]