About Entomology

The Facts

• Entomology is a branch of zoology that specifically studies the existence of insects. For scientists to gain knowledge about insect populations and productivity, they focus their attention in this area of study, as well as microbiology and biochemistry.

Significance

• The study of entomology happens for a multitude of reasons. Scientists research insects to find what their importance is for being pollinators of fruit crops; how they carry bacterial, viral, and other diseases; and for their reasons of destroying plants and other insects.

Function

• Researchers sometimes uses insects like the fruit fly (or Drosophila) in their laboratories to study genetics (the mechanism and heredity of a species). Other insects are used to study behavior and physiology. The reason entomologists use fruit flies is not for certain, but the insect is easy to catch because they are commonly found in homes, restaurants, supermarkets, and any other place that food is left out to rot.

Types

• Forensic entomology is another type of study for insects and is a tool for forensic science. This area uses insect knowledge for investigations regarding crimes and civil disputes. It is used to inform investigators how long human remains have been undetected, the cause of death, and whether the corpse has been moved around or not. It can also solve cases of contraband trafficking.

Potential

• The study of entomology is specified in graduate programs all over the Unite States. Students who earn a master's or PhD degree in this field of study have the potential of starting a career as an entomologist, researcher, college professor, and more.