ENTOM 3410 - Applied Entomology

Fall. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: college course in introductory biological sciences. Enrollment limited to: 24 students.

J. Sanderson.

This course focuses on how insects affect our daily lives in agriculture, urban and environmental settings and public health. Through hands-on field trips, lectures and laboratory exercises, students will gain an appreciation for and understanding of the biology, ecology and behavior of important insects and other arthropods. We will explore insects and pests as well as beneficial organisms (e.g. pollinators, natural enemies and aquatic insects). We will discuss various past, present and future pest management practices and the effects they have on our society, economy, health and the environment in which we live. The course will emphasize field experiences and discussion of topics. Previous experience in entomology is not required.

Outcome 1: 1.1 Students will study insect structure and function as needed for understanding the principles of identification of insect species, their ecology, and effects of management tactics.
1.2 Students will understand the major themes of insect pest management including biological, cultural, genetic, insecticidal, host plant resistance and IPM.

Outcome 2: 2.1 Students will understand the various insect pest management practices and be able to intelligently discuss their benefits and limitations within the context of domestic and international perspectives.

Outcome 3: 3.1 Students will learn about responsibilities in various employment opportunities such as field technicians, food industry, government, university and international positions.
3.2 Students will conduct a search for positions of interest and prepare a resume.

Outcome 4: 4.1 Students will make class presentations about particular pests and the pros and cons of various management strategies.
4.2 Students will be presented with an issue important to pest management and be assigned to articulate and defend various points of view.

Outcome 5: 5.1 Students will be able to explain the beneficial and harmful ways in which insects affect agriculture, urban and environmental settings and public health. They will become familiar with important examples.

Outcome 6: 6.1 With an understanding of the biology and ecology of insects, and familiarity with the settings in which the pests cause negative effects, students will be able to compare and contrast various management strategies and discuss which have succeeded or failed and why.
6.2 Students will be able to discuss how social and cultural issues affect management strategies.