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BIOL 512G Insect Ecology and Management

This is an advanced course in the study of insect ecology, with particular emphasis on application to the management of pest species of agricultural, medical/veterinary, and urban importance. Topics addressed include, but are not limited to: insect population dynamics and regulation, sampling techniques, insect-plant interactions, disease vector biology, theories and practices of integrated pest management (IPM) and insecticide resistance management (IRM), and insect taxonomy. Students will read and discuss primary literature articles in entomology, and will engage in active field/laboratory exercises in insect ecology and taxonomy.

Special information

First day attendance is mandatory.
Note: Graduate status required or Natural Science Department approval.
3 Graduate credits

Effective May 3, 2017 to present

Learning outcomes

General

  • Apply student knowledge of core theories and current research in insect ecology to problems in agriculture, human and livestock health, and households.
  • Utilize methods of population sampling that are used widely by entomologists, and analyze the resultant data.
  • Apply taxonomic methods common in the field of entomology (e.g., insect systematics; dichotomous keys).
  • Examine and analyze the utility of alternative pest management strategies in the context of the principles of insect ecology.
  • Describe how government structures and legislation have roles in the management of insect pests of agricultural, medical/veterinary, and urban importance.
  • Effectively communicate technical information between and among experts and the general public.