Fundamentals of Entomology, Sixth Edition
Editorial Reviews
Book Description
Insects are one of the most remarkable animal groups on the earth, and they merit study for at least two major reasons. First, insects have unsurpassed diversity and niches; because of this extensive variation, these animals can provide an in-depth understanding of nature and the many ways that biological problems have been met. They witnessed the rise and fall of dinosaurs and were the first creatures to fly. Approximately 70 to 75 percent of the known species of animals are classified as insects, and 31 orders and about 600 families are found in North America north of Mexico (Borror and Johnson, 1989). Insects fly, they jump, they hide, they see ultraviolet light, they produce and molt an extraordinary exoskeleton, and they possess magnificent colors and shapes. Few habitats exclude insects. In withstanding harsh environments they are unparalleled. Some insects live in the arid deserts, some in hot springs up to 80 C, others on mountain peaks as high as 6,096 m, some in tropical rain forests, and there are insects that live in arctic temperatures that reach below 20C. A second major reason to study insects is that a knowledge of insects is essential as we manipulate ecosystems for increased food production and better health. Back in the early 1900s, many entomologists were concerned about the competition for food between humankind and insects, and some entomologists believed that insect control was imperative for survival of the human race. Although such a position may seem somewhat extreme, insects do consume or spoil crops and products, causing millions of people to starve each year. And insect-transmitted diseases, to both humans and their crops, remain a threat to health and civilizations. In the mid-1970s students and professionals encouraged me to write an introductory text that would condense the diversity of insects and their influence on the ecosystem into a basic insect plan. The text was developed so as to be truly elementary so that students in entomology, agriculture, education, and biology could read and understand the material with their particular backgrounds. Each new edition incorporated new chapters, photographs, keys, and updated materials as research unveiled new ideas and understanding. My gratitude is expressed to the many students, colleagues, reviewers, publishing professionals, and to my understanding and supportive family, who have contributed to and encouraged this publication. I wish to especially thank Dewey M. Carom University of Delaware, for his valuable feedback during my preparation of this edition. Acknowledgment is extended to those who loaned or gave permission to use illustrations and photographs. Scanning electron microscope photographs were taken in the SEM Laboratory, Kansas State University. align="right"> RICHARD J. ELZINGA Manhattan, Kansas
Book Info
Provides a clear, accessible introduction to the world of insects. Addresses topics on an introductory level, condensing the diversity and complexity of insects and their influence upon the ecosystem into a useful framework. DLC: Entomology.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Fundamentals of Entomology, Sixth Edition
Fundamentals of Entomology, Sixth Edition,Richard J. Elzinga,Prentice Hall,0130480304,Entomology,Life Sciences - Zoology - Entomology,Science,Science/Mathematics,Science / Biology
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