Entomology

- Overview

Entomology is the branch of science within zoology that focuses on the study of insects and their relationship to humans, the environment, and other organisms. It involves examining insect biology, behavior, ecology, and evolution, including the management of pests and the protection of beneficial species crucial for pollination and ecosystems. 

Entomology is essential for understanding how to manage, protect, and utilize the more than one million described insect species. 

Key aspects of entomology include:

• Definition & Scope: Derived from the Greek word entomon (meaning "notched" or "insect"), this field studies the most diverse group of animals on Earth, including, in a broader sense, related arthropods like spiders, scorpions, and mites.
• Applications: It plays a vital role in agriculture (managing pests), public health (controlling disease-carrying insects), and forensic science (using insect evidence to determine the time of death).
  
• Importance: Entomologists study insects for their critical ecological roles, such as pollinating 90% of wild plants and approximately 30% of human food crops.
  
• Subfields: Specialized areas include agricultural entomology, forensic entomology, taxonomy, and insect physiology.