An insect collection is required. This course is designed for seniors and graduate students. It presents a survey of insect physiology and development. The physiology of each of the organ systems is studied, as are the dynamic processes of water regulation, development, nutrition, metabolism, flight, and endocrinology. Basic biology, entomology, and biochemistry is assumed to be part of the student's background.
Emphasis is placed on diagnostic characteristics for family-level recognition of adult insects.
Laboratory time is allowed for making and identifying an extensive collection to be submitted at the end of the semester. Identified laboratory specimens are provided as aids to learning important morphological traits and the use of keys in the identification of specimens. The underlying concepts of genetics, evolution, and zoogeography are presented. A variety of problems and practices in systematics research are also studied. Emphasis is on interactions of insects with their biotic and abiotic environment.