BIO2105 ENTOMOLOGY

BIO2105 ENTOMOLOGY

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This course will provide a comprehensive study of the largest class of animals– Insecta. The characteristics; factors that attributed to insect success; insect evolution will be explored. An overview of how insects are classified is important. A detailed study of the insect orders and important families with regard to general and peculiar characteristics, habitat and economic importance is required. Discussions of insect structure and physiology; principles of pest management; pesticides and challenges of IPM and insect pathology are important. Arthropods of Agricultural, medical and veterinary importance can also be covered. A Field study to research organizations with respect to entomological aspects is also required.

Course objectives
By the end of the course the learners should be able to:

  • Describe how insects have been successful and their economic importance
  • Explain  the phylogeny and major evolutionary stages of insects
  • Explain the taxonomic and evolutionary approach to classification and origin of Class Insecta  
  • Discuss general and peculiar insect characteristics that place insects them to particular orders
  • Describe insect structure and morphology with reference to: the insect integument, moulting process, general form and structure (the head capsule and its appendages, visual organs, the thorax and its appendages, the abdomen and associated structures, respiration, reproduction, digestion, excretion and osmoregulation) 
  • Explain the principle of pest control/ management (IPM)
  • Identify the different types of pests and threshold levels
  • Group pesticides and explain hoe pest resistance develops
  • Discuss arthropods of agricultural, medical and veterinary importance : how they spread diseases and control measures applied
  • Discuss aspects in beekeeping

Expected outcomes

  • Identify insects without use of identification keys
  • Relate insect structure to function
  • Apply principles of IPM in pest management/ Control 
  • Set up and manage an apiary
  • Design research projects in Entomology