Introduction to Entomology (Texas)

This course covers the basics of insect morphology, classification and identification:

• morphological features used to classify arthropods
• morphology related to the identification of insect orders (including life cycles and feeding)
• identification of common insects in Texas, with an emphasis on those that affect plant and animal health

Major areas of insect biology are also covered, including basic ecology, internal anatomy, behavior, social behavior, sensory systems, communication and learning, predator-prey dynamics, and parasitism.

Students will also examine economic entomology as it applies to plants, animals, and humans, such as injury level, integrated pest management (IPM), types of insect control, the concepts of beneficial and pest insects, and an introduction to beekeeping.