Entomologists are changing the world, one insect at a time. From boosting pollination by increasing bee populations to reducing the number of disease-carrying mosquitoes, entomologists directly impact the health of our ecosystems and communities. Often, these groundbreaking advancements in entomology research start in the lab.
In the Lab: The Role of Entomology in Scientific Discovery
Although most insects — cockroaches and other unwelcome pests aside — reside outdoors, laboratories offer the controlled conditions necessary for entomologists to study them in detail. With regulated temperature, consistent lighting and access to advanced equipment, researchers can conduct precise experiments and gain critical insights into insect behavior and biology.
One of the more remarkable findings from laboratory research is the role of pheromones in insect communication. These chemical signals, used by insects to interact with one another, have been extensively studied in labs, leading to significant breakthroughs in pest management.
For example, scientists have developed traps that utilize specific pheromones to attract and capture harmful pests. This targeted approach can reduce populations of destructive species while sparing beneficial insects, such as our beloved pollinators. By minimizing the need for chemical insecticides, pheromone traps enhance sustainability and offer an eco-friendly solution to managing pests. It’s a win-win.
In the Field: Applying Research Findings in the Real World
A successful experiment in a controlled laboratory setting doesn’t always guarantee success in an insect’s natural habitat. That’s why entomologists take their research into real-world environments, testing their effectiveness in practical applications like agriculture, public health and environmental conservation. Field testing bridges the gap between theoretical discovery and practical implementation, ensuring that scientific advancements deliver meaningful results outside the lab.
Agriculture
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that pests reduce global crop yield by 20 to 40% annually. Not only does this diminish global food security, it can also generate serious economic losses due to ruined crops. To mitigate these impacts, scientists have focused on studying the biology and reproductive patterns of pests to develop sustainable, non-chemical methods of population control.
One such innovation is the sterile insect technique (SIT). This method involves sterilizing male pests via radiation, including fruit flies and mosquitoes. These sterile males are then released into areas with heavy infestations, where they compete with fertile males to mate with females. Since these matings produce no offspring, pest populations gradually decline. This technique can be effective in protecting crops while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
Public Health
Vector-borne diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and dengue result in over 700,000 global deaths each year. These diseases are transmitted by insect vectors, like mosquitoes and ticks, making population management of these species a critical public health priority.
The sterile insect technique has also been successfully adapted for disease control. The National Institutes of Health reports that SIT has been a valuable tool in suppressing mosquito populations that carry vector-borne diseases. By reducing the number of mosquitoes capable of transmitting diseases, SIT plays an important role in curbing outbreaks and protecting human health.
Conservation
Did you know that bees pollinate one in every three bites of food we eat? In fact, they’re responsible for fertilizing 80% of the world’s flowering plants (a little humble brag for some of our most powerful pollinators). Unfortunately, one in four species of bees is at risk of becoming extinct, due to factors like habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use.
To combat this decline, entomologists have been working both in the lab and field to protect these essential pollinators. Drawing on their research, scientists have developed strategies like planting native wildflowers near large crop areas. These pollinator-friendly landscapes provide welcoming habitats for bees and other species while also improving crop yields: a win for both agriculture and biodiversity.
Challenges in Field Implementation
Of course, implementing new practices in the field comes with its own sets of challenges, including:
- Environmental complexity
While conditions in the lab are carefully controlled, the unpredictability of natural environments presents significant obstacles. Factors such as weather, habitat diversity and predator-prey relationships can influence the results of field studies, often leading to variations from the findings observed in the lab. - Ethical concerns
Releasing genetically modified insects raises concerns about their potential impact on ecosystems and human health. Some individuals question the long-term effects of such interventions, while others debate the morality of altering nature on such a large scale. - Scalability
Although SIT has proven effective in smaller-scale trials, applying it on a larger scale poses challenges. Releasing sufficient numbers of sterile insects requires substantial resources and funding, and scaling up operations makes monitoring and evaluating outcomes far more complex.
Become a Pioneer in Entomological Research
Entomology is a field that can take you from cutting-edge laboratory experiments to the heart of vibrant ecosystems. If you’re driven by the idea of blending scientific research with real-world change, advancing your expertise through one of the University of Florida’s online graduate programs in entomology is the perfect next step.
As the number one entomology and nematology program in the world, we proudly offer several specializations tailored to your unique passions and career goals, from beekeeping to landscape pest management. We also understand that every path is different, and that’s why we provide the flexibility to choose between earning a graduate certificate or a master’s degree within any of our specializations.
Explore our online programs, contact us with any questions and apply for the upcoming semester. Your future — whether in the lab or the field — is just a click away.
Sources:
https://onlineentomology.ifas.ufl.edu/insect-communication-3-ways-insects-share-information/
https://www.fao.org/pest-and-pesticide-management/about/understanding-the-context/en
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8304793/
https://onlineentomology.ifas.ufl.edu/about/entomology-articles/rise-of-vector-borne-diseases/
https://thebeeconservancy.org/
Entomology had quite the year in 2024. New York City declared all-out war against the spotted lanternfly, rallying citizens to stomp them on sight. Australia introduced a fire ant prevention program that’s in “absolute shambles.” And for the first time since 1803, 13-year and 17-year periodical cicadas emerged simultaneously from underground.
If 2024 is any indication, 2025 is going to be an even bigger year for entomology. From conservation efforts to pest management, here are seven trends in entomology to keep on your radar.
1. Insect Populations Dwindle
Insect populations have declined for decades, and 2025 doesn’t look like the year we reverse course. Conducting a systematic review of 156 journals and websites, researchers confirmed that insect decline is a complex issue driven by human-induced:
- Climate change
- Habitat loss
- Intensive agriculture
- Pesticide use
- Pollution
The numbers are grim. Reports of insect declines, mostly from Europe and North America, show that 40% of insect species in temperate countries may face extinction in the next few decades. While the research doesn’t exactly break new ground, it highlights the importance of conservation efforts like habitat protection, sustainable land management and species-specific initiatives.
2. Protecting Pollinators
It’s not all doom and gloom! Just look at Slovenia, a Central European country with 11,000 passionate beekeepers. Back in 2011, the Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association successfully pushed to ban the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, which are toxic to bees. By 2018, they had started World Bee Day to educate the global public on the important role bees and other pollinators play in ensuring food security and conserving biodiversity.
The Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association proves that small, committed communities can make a difference. Don’t be surprised if more grassroots initiatives to protect pollinators emerge in 2025.
3. Pest Management Powered by AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere. (Seriously, it might be a crime to write a “2025 trends” article without mentioning it.) But AI is solving some real problems in entomology. Take crop pests, for example. Pests destroy between 20% and 40% of food crops around the world every year, and they don’t even have the common decency to identify themselves. Rude.
That could all change with AI. For example, an IoT (internet of things) trap can capture pests. AI algorithms can then identify the pest with more accuracy than a human ever could. And that’s only one application for this evolving technology.
4. The Fight Against Disinformation
“Science itself is never partisan, but it’s always political … because knowledge itself is power, and power is political,” said science writer and author Shawn Otto in his keynote speech at the Entomology 2024 conference. Entomology often deals with complex challenges and advanced technologies that can be easily misunderstood by the public or misrepresented by bad actors. Otto urged scientists to communicate more effectively by not only “telling people what we know” but also “explaining how we know it.” In other words, explain how the science works.
5. Cracking the Code of Insect Behavior
How do insects feed, reproduce and interact? Understanding insect behavior is vital for pest management, disease control and insect conservation. And the field is booming. Researchers, looking at data from literature searches, funding databases and Entomological Society of America presentations, confirmed that the field is growing and recognized as an integral part of the entomological field.
That’s not all. Recent advancements in genetic tools and gene editing are letting scientists explore insect behavior at the molecular level. Given the staggering diversity of insects and their impact across numerous fields, expect this field to reveal incredible insights in the years ahead.
6. Plant Resistance Makes a Comeback
The wooly apple aphid loves apples. Like really loves apples — so much so that Reginald Painter pioneered host-plant resistance to combat these critters in the 1950s. Since then, over 500 crop genotypes with resistance to arthropod herbivores have been developed. Now, advancements in areas such as biotechnology, molecular breeding, analytical tools and omics techniques offer new insights into how plants and arthropod herbivores interact. As these tools continue to develop, expect plant resistance to become a key part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs.
7. Taking on Pests and Plant Pathogens
Insects don’t just spread diseases to humans; they’re also responsible for transmitting plant viruses and bacterial and fungal pathogens that devastate crops and threaten global food security. Thankfully, new discoveries are shining a light on these herbivorous pests. One key area of advancement is uncovering the molecular mechanisms at work when insects exploit host plants, and with genomic sequences now available for many species within major groups of vectors, the field is making incredible strides.
Become Part of the Story
We’ve covered everything from a passionate beekeeping community in Slovenia to cutting-edge genomic techniques revolutionizing plant protection. The takeaway? There’s a place for you in the vast world of entomology. Whether you’re planting a pollinator-friendly garden or pursuing a career in this growing field, we’re rooting for you. (But we’re kind of hoping you pick the second option.)
The University of Florida, home to one of the largest entomology and nematology departments in the world, offers online programs designed to help you make a difference in entomology, and in turn, the world. Want to study medical entomology or master the art of beekeeping? We’ve got you covered. Interested in IPM? Our landscape or urban pest management options will teach you everything you need to know.
2025 promises to be another exciting year for entomology. Why not step into this incredible field and add one more thing to look forward to? Take a look at our online graduate entomology programs, and when you’re ready, make it official by applying to UF!
Sources:
https://entomologytoday.org/2024/05/02/new-collection-current-trends-entomology/
Whether you’re captivated by true crime documentaries or a devoted fan of the long-running series “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” you’ve likely glimpsed the gritty realities of crime scenes: the blood, the yellow tape … and the maggots feasting on the recently deceased.
If you’re passionate about insects and the intricacies of criminal investigations, why not combine these interests into a unique career? As a forensic entomologist, you’ll immerse yourself in fascinating scientific investigation, both in the field and behind the microscope. With insects as your muses, you’ll help uncover crucial details about homicides including time of death and potential crime locations.
What Do Forensic Entomologists Do?
Forensic entomologists use their unique entomological skillset to assist in legal investigations, often those featuring decomposing bodies. With the assistance of insects around the scene of the crime, they provide essential insights that help solve cases, particularly when traditional methods of estimating the time of death are not viable.
Some of their daily responsibilities include:
- Collecting evidence
During the active investigation of a crime scene, forensic entomologists gather insect samples and take them back to the lab for further review. - Analyzing insects
In the lab, they focus on specific criteria, including the type of insects they’ve collected and the developmental stages of each insect. This information helps estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI), or the time since death. They also assess environmental influences that may impact and alter an insect’s development, such as temperature and humidity, to refine their estimations. - Preparing reports
After completing their analyses, forensic entomologists document their findings in detailed reports for law enforcement and legal entities, which may be used in court. - Testifying in court
They also serve as expert witnesses, providing explanations of their findings and methodologies to judges and juries during legal proceedings.
Salary and Job Outlook
A career as a forensic entomologist is a lucrative one, with a national average salary of approximately $88,000 per year. In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the job outlook for the related role of forensic science technicians is expected to grow by 14% through 2033: a rate that’s substantially higher than the national average.
Understanding Forensic Entomology: The Art Behind the Science
Being a forensic scientist is like blending the precision of science with the interpretative skill of art. Behind every insect feeding on a decomposing body is a critical clue that can reveal insights into a crime scene. In forensic entomology, experts use the life cycle and development stages of insects — usually blowflies and carrion beetles — to determine a PMI.
After death, bodies go through five stages of decomposition:
- Fresh
- Early decomposition
- Advanced decomposition
- Skeletonization
- Extreme decomposition
Each stage attracts a unique set of insects. Blowflies, for instance, are often the first to arrive, drawn to the body by bodily fluids and gases released during early decomposition.
As time passes, beetles and other insects follow, often feeding on both the decaying tissue and fly larvae already present. This predictable succession of insect colonization allows forensic scientists to pinpoint the decomposition stage and estimate the PMI, leading the investigative team one step closer to understanding the circumstances of the death.
How to Become a Forensic Entomologist
There are several steps to check off on the journey toward becoming a forensic entomologist:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree
Majors such as biology, entomology and forensic science cover essential areas you’ll use regularly while working, like microbiology, chemistry and biological and physical sciences. - Gain practical experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable for aspiring forensic entomologists. It becomes even more crucial if you plan to obtain certification from the American Board of Forensic Entomology (ABFE) later in your career. Working in a laboratory, volunteering or interning with a forensic organization allows you to build foundational skills such as insect identification, laboratory techniques and crime scene protocols. - Obtain a master’s degree
Though not strictly required, a master’s degree in entomology can enhance your expertise and open doors to more specialized roles. Graduate programs often include coursework in forensic entomology, decomposition and insect behavior, providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills. - Become certified
Certification can be an important step for those who wish to establish credibility in the field. The ABFE offers certification for those with a relevant degree and professional experience, and the certification requires passing an exam.
Start Your Career in Forensic Entomology With a Graduate Credential From UF
If you’re ready to deepen your expertise in entomology for a dynamic role as a forensic entomologist — or another career in entomology — the University of Florida’s online graduate programs in entomology offer specialized courses that go beyond basic biology. As an online student, you’ll study insect behavior, ecology and identification in detail, giving your resume an edge as you work toward your professional goals.
Our online master’s degree in entomology offers four distinct specializations, allowing you to hone in on a particular area of interest in entomology while also gaining a strong foundation in general entomology:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
For students aiming to specialize in one area, we also offer 15-credit graduate certificates in the same focus areas. As the world’s top-ranked entomology and nematology program, UF provides both depth and flexibility in online learning, ensuring a thorough understanding of entomology while making it possible to complete your coursework on your schedule.
Ready to make a change in your career? Apply today!
Sources:
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Forensic-Entomologist-Salary
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549867
Ants are taking over. With a staggering 20 quadrillion ants crawling across the planet, that’s 2.5 million ants for every human.
Now, ask yourself: Could you fight 2.5 million ants all on your own?
Ants thrive in massive colonies housing hundreds of thousands of these tiny warriors, each capable of carrying 50 times their own body weight. When threatened, they move with a singular purpose: protect the colony at all costs.
We’re not confident we could survive a battle with 2.5 million ants, so it’s time to study our enemy. By understanding their survival strategies, maybe — just maybe — we can find a way to stop them before it’s too late … or at least, stop them from invading our next lunchtime picnic.
Let’s dive into the captivating world of entomology and explore what makes ants such successful survivors.
All in a Day’s Worker Ant
Colonies are typically led by one or more queens — in some species, thousands — with mature queens capable of laying thousands of eggs in a single day. As for male ants, or drones, they have one job: mate with the queen. They die soon after. (So dramatic.)
The real heavy lifters? They’re all female. Worker ants may not reproduce, but they handle everything else, including gathering food, tending to the queen’s young, building and maintaining the nest and defending the colony with their lives.
When they stumble upon a tasty snack or sense danger, worker ants release pheromones to alert others. While most ants stick to a diet of nectar, seeds, fungus or other insects, some species like army ants prey on reptiles, birds and small mammals. If you’ve ever accidentally stepped on an ant mound, you know they’re not afraid to attack a human thousands of times their size.
Good Ol’ Reliable Venom
Ants are known for overwhelming their prey with sheer numbers, but let’s not forget that ants are among the most abundant groups of venomous creatures on the planet. Some ant species are even solitary hunters, capable of subduing prey with their venom alone.
Their venom isn’t just for hunting, however. Ants have adapted to use their venom for a variety of purposes. It can serve as an antimicrobial and herbicide and even plays a role in chemical communication.
Extraordinary Ant Defense Mechanisms and Survival Strategies
There over 12,000 known ant species, and each has evolved unique survival strategies. Here are some of the most remarkable:
Ants That Engineer
Native to South America, fire ants are infamous for their burning stings. But they’re also the engineers of the insect world, capable of climbing on and over each other to form living structures. A particularly impressive feat is their ability to survive floods by locking together to create water-repellent rafts that can float for weeks.
Believe it or not, the queen doesn’t issue orders to the colony. Each ant operates on its own, gathering information from its immediate surroundings to figure out what to do next.
Ants That Explode
Colobopsis explodens doesn’t sting or bite hard, but when threatened, it has one incredible trick up its sleeve. First, these ants raise their rump as a warning. Then, if the attacker doesn’t retreat, one of the ants will sacrifice itself, clamping down and flexing its abdomen until it bursts, releasing a stick, yellow toxin. Brutal.
Ants of the Seven Kingdoms
Native to Papua New Guinea, Pheidole drogon and Pheidole viserion look absolutely bizarre. These ants have barbs along their backs and shoulders, likely for fending off predators. But beneath those spikes, scientists discovered an unusual set of muscles that suggest the spikes also provide extra support for the ants’ oversized heads. And yes, they’re named after the dragons from “Game of Thrones.”
Ants That Have Watched Too Many “Saw” Movies
Meet Allomerus decemarticulatus, the trap-setting ant. Living in the leaf pouches of Amazonian plants, these workers build galleried structures in their host plant’s stems, piercing small holes through which they can poke their heads. Under the holes, they lie in wait, mandibles open, poised to strike at unsuspecting insects. It’s the stuff of nightmares.
Ants: A Formidable Opponent
Ants are incredible creatures capable of performing extraordinary feats, from building living structures to literally exploding to protect their colony. Thankfully, they seem content with raiding our pantries and crashing our picnics rather than attacking the human race. But then again, you can never be too careful …
Sharing the Planet With Ants and Other Insects
Curious about turning your interest in ants and other insects into a career? You’re not alone.
The University of Florida offers online graduate programs for those interested in learning more about ants, fleas, termites and other pests as well as the integrated pest management (IPM) techniques used to keep them out of our homes and gardens. At UF, you can pursue a master’s degree or graduate certificate in:
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
The best part? You can complete your studies entirely online, on your own time — perfect for working professionals with a full schedule.
Ready to gain the knowledge and skills needed to advance your career in the IPM field? Check out our online graduate programs. And when you’re ready, apply to UF!
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4728552/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-fire-ants-form-giant-rafts-to-survive-floods/
There are plenty of six-legged pests you probably have no desire to protect. Mosquitoes, for example, buzz around in pursuit of your blood, sometimes carrying lethal diseases like malaria and West Nile virus. No, thanks. Then, you have other insects — the ones that play a crucial role in helping our world thrive, like bees, butterflies and beetles.
Ensuring these helpful insects continue to thrive is essential. With the increased use of pesticides and the impending effects of climate change, conservation efforts have never been more urgent. Let’s dive into why safeguarding these insects is important for the health of our planet and its inhabitants.
The Role of Insects in Ecosystems
Butterflies are ethereal creatures, admired for their grace and beauty, but they — and countless other insects — play a far more important role than simply being beautiful. Here’s how insects, unsung heroes of nature, are positively impacting the world one pollinated flower at a time:
- Pollinating wild plants and crops
Pollination is essential for plant reproduction, a process crucial for protecting global ecosystems. Insects pollinate more than 75% of the world’s crops, making them essential for sustaining Earth’s growing population.
- Removing organic waste
Beetles and maggots play a key role in breaking down organic matter, such as dead animals and rotting plants.
- Being a reliable food source
Insects are a primary food source for hundreds of animals, including birds, lizards and mammals.
- Controlling pests
Nature’s pest control comes from insects like ladybugs and wasps, which help keep unwanted pests like aphids and mites under control.
Causes of Insect Population Decline
There are over 1 million species of insects on the planet, making up approximately two-thirds of all animal species. But according to Reuters, the global insect population is declining at an alarming rate of 2% each year.
So, what’s causing such a rapid drop in the number of insects worldwide? Here are some primary causes:
- Habitat loss
With human population increasing and urbanization on the rise, entire habitats are being destroyed, leaving less room for insects and other animal species to thrive.
- Pesticide use
Pesticides can prove beneficial when removing unwanted pests, but they’re also capable of inadvertently killing non-targeted insect species.
- Climate change
Rising temperatures are impacting the life cycles, habitats and food sources of insects globally.
Consequences of Insect Decline
While losing 2% of the world’s insect population annually might not feel dramatic, if it continues, there will be 40% fewer insects by 2050. This decline could lead to severe consequences for our planet, including:
- Disrupted food chains
The decline of insects disrupts nature’s food chain. For example, birds like warblers and swallows rely on insects as their primary food source. A shortage of these insects can lead to a decline in certain bird species, which in turn negatively impacts creatures that prey on those birds, such as raccoons and snakes.
- Reduced produce availability
According to the United Nations, the current worldwide population of 7.6 billion is expected to reach 8.6 billion by 2030 and 9.8 billion by 2050. Without enough pollinators to maintain (or increase) the current production of crops, there’s potential for global food shortages.
Strategies for Insect Conservation
To prevent the disastrous effects of ongoing insect decline, it’s crucial that we act now. Whether you’re an insect conservationist or simply someone who cares about the planet, there are several ways we can work together to enhance insect conservation efforts:
- Restoring habitats
While you might not be able to stop large-scale deforestation, you can still make a difference by planting native species in your yard. This helps support local insect populations by providing essential food and shelter.
- Reducing pesticide use
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: Ladybugs are one of nature’s best pesticides. They mitigate the aphid population without harming your precious plants or other beneficial insects. You can also create all-natural pesticides using everyday ingredients such as garlic, peppermint oil or cayenne pepper.
- Raising public awareness
While this article is a step in the right direction, the more voices that advocate for insect conservation, the better! We encourage you to spread the word about the importance of preserving beneficial insects. Through workshops, social media campaigns and community activities, we can increase public understanding and encourage active participation in insect conservation.
Stake Your Claim in Insect Conservation Efforts
As an entomologist or conservation biologist, you play a crucial role in protecting the world’s insect biodiversity for years to come. Whether you’re already working in entomology or ready to start a career in this dynamic field, the University of Florida offers several online graduate credentials tailored to your skills and interests. Choose from an online master’s degree or graduate certificate in one of four specialization areas:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
Proudly ranked as the No. 1 entomology and nematology program globally by the Center for World University Rankings, we invite you to join our esteemed online graduate programs. We also offer:
- Affordable tuition rates.
- No GRE requirement.
- Year-round start dates.
- Asynchronous courses (complete your work on your timeline).
Begin your journey toward insect conservation and apply for the program that ignites your passion today!
Sources:
https://www.un.org/en/desa/world-population-projected-reach-98-billion-2050-and-112-billion-2100
https://wildlifesos.org/animals/entomophagous-animals-those-who-feast-on-insects/
https://www.reuters.com/graphics/GLOBAL-ENVIRONMENT/INSECT-APOCALYPSE/egpbykdxjvq/
https://northerngardener.org/ladybugs-asian-lady-beetles-and-aphids/
Humans are constantly communicating with one another. We talk, use nonverbal cues and even rely on technology to get our messages across. But we’re not the only animals that communicate. From whale songs to mouse squeaks, creatures worldwide use various methods to connect.
Even smaller but just as communicative — if not more so — are insects. Despite their varying shapes and sizes, insects have developed many ways to share information about food sources, enemies and mating, all without using words.
Let’s explore three unique ways that insects communicate with each other.
#1 Chemical Communication
Insects rely on pheromones more than any other method of communication. Pheromones are chemical signals that allow members of the same species to interact. While humans can’t detect these signals in other animals, ants, for example, can scent the pheromones left behind by other ants. As they travel, they leave a pheromone trail that guides others back to the nest, which is why ants often walk in lines. These chemical signals also help them avoid accidentally following the trails of other colonies, keeping them out of enemy territory.
Trail marking isn’t the only reason insects use pheromones to communicate. Chemical communication is also used to:
- Attract mates
- Signal alarms
- Locate food
#2 Auditory Communication
From politely conversing across the table to clapping our hands in frustration to get someone’s attention, sound is one of the main ways humans communicate. Insects also use sound to convey information, though not through words. Instead, insects like crickets, katydids and grasshoppers create sounds by rapidly moving their hind legs or wings — sounds that other insects can hear and understand.
Crickets are particularly attuned to the sounds of fellow crickets, especially during mating season. Imagine being surrounded by hundreds of suitors, each making a similar noise to grab your attention. Female crickets listen closely to identify precise sounds to ensure they mate with the correct type of cricket.
Other insects, like the pea-sized treehopper, use the muscles in their thorax and abdomen to communicate via vibration. These vibrations travel through the insect’s legs and move outward, where nearby treehoppers detect the shocks through sensitive vibration sensors in their legs. Treehoppers use this subtle yet effective form of communication to:
- Warn nearby treehoppers of approaching predators.
- Coordinate group movements, such as migrating or finding food.
- Signal readiness to mate or reproduce.
#3 Tactile Communication
Communication doesn’t always require words to convey meaning. Ants, for example, often use their antennae to communicate with one another. By touching one another’s antennae, they’re able to receive chemical signals that help them identify members of their colony from invaders. This tactile communication also allows them to share information about food sources and alert nestmates to potential threats.
Honey bees also use tactile movements to communicate. With a combination of vibrations and movements, the “waggle dance” helps a worker bee convey the location of food sources to its nestmates. What’s more, this dance is passed down from generation to generation, according to researchers at the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Bees who learned from more experienced members of the hive danced with more accuracy than bees who never had a mentor to teach them the jig.
Discover More About the Fascinating World of Insects
The more you explore the world of insects, the more questions you might have. How do insect species adapt to climate change? Can insects learn from their experiences, or are their behaviors purely instinctual?
With a career as a research entomologist or behavioral ecologist, you could turn your passion into a rewarding career, uncovering new insights about insects and sharing your findings with like-minded individuals. If these or other entomology career paths intrigue you, consider one of the University of Florida’s online graduate programs in entomology.
We offer four unique specialties, tailored to the skills and knowledge you wish to gain:
You can choose to earn either a graduate certificate or a master’s degree in any of these specializations. Each graduate certificate requires 15 credit hours, while the master’s degree consists of 30 credit hours — 15 credits for a broad study of entomology and 15 credits focused on your chosen specialization. With the master’s degree, you’ll earn two credentials: a Master of Science in Entomology and Nematology and a graduate certificate in your specialization.
We offer affordable tuition rates and year-round start dates, so why wait? Join the number one entomology and nematology program in the world. Apply today!
Sources:
https://www.science.org/content/article/shhh-ants-are-talking
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160330103328.htm
https://www.npr.org/2015/08/27/432934935/good-vibrations-key-to-insect-communication
https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ade1702
During the warmer months, it’s common to spot butterflies serenely gliding from flower to flower or gently flying past during your afternoon walk. But did you know that many of those graceful creatures, including the famed monarch butterfly, only live an average of two to six weeks once they reach adulthood?
This short lifespan begs the question: How do monarchs survive their multi-month migration each year? Remarkably, monarchs aren’t the only insects that undertake cross-continent migrations. Dragonflies, locusts and other insects also spend much of their lives traveling from one location to another.
Join us as we delve into some extraordinary insect migration journeys and explore some of the amazing insects that traverse the globe.
Explaining the Phenomenon of Insect Migration
If you’re not familiar with insect migration, the concept might not sound particularly remarkable. Butterflies and other insects travel from point A to point B — so why the hype?
These insects aren’t merely taking a leisurely flight from one backyard flower bed to the next. Instead, they’re traveling thousands of miles for reasons that vary by species, including:
- Escaping the incoming winter weather in favor of a warmer climate.
- Finding a hospitable environment to breed.
- Seeking more readily available food sources.
Exploring Different Insect Migrations
Numerous insects make the trek south each year before heading back north the following year. Below, we discuss some of the most well-known insect migrations and learn what makes each one so unique.
Monarch Butterfly Migration
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the monarch butterfly is the only butterfly that undertakes a two-way migration because it can’t survive the frigid winters in northern climates. Monarchs spend the warmer summer months in Eastern North America, where they breed until the temperatures begin to drop. Then they migrate south to the Sierra Madre in Mexico, where they hibernate from October to late March.
With the help of air currents, monarchs can travel between 50 and 100 miles per day. Even with their miraculously quick traveling speed, they still require approximately two months to complete their 2,500-mile journey in either direction.
This raises the question again: If adult monarch butterflies only live two to six weeks, how do they make the eight-week journey south to hibernate? The migrating generations live significantly longer due to a dormancy mechanism. Also known as diapause, it delays their ability to reproduce until the following spring, allowing them to live for six to nine months, completing the migration in the process.
Dragonfly Migration
Like the monarch butterfly, green darner dragonflies also migrate at different times of the year. While their trips are only 500 to 600 miles, completing the journey is no small accomplishment, and they can fly up to 87 miles in a single day. Another trait green darner dragonflies share with monarchs is a multigenerational migration pattern:
- First generation
The first generation of dragonflies hatch in the Southern U.S. and Mexico from February to May before migrating north. Once they make it to the Midwestern U.S., they lay eggs and die.
- Second generation
The next generation migrates south from July to October. Following the same pattern as their parents, they lay eggs and die before the final generation emerges.
- Third generation
Around November, the last generation in the migrational cycle hatches and lives in the south all winter long. Their offspring will migrate northward and begin the entire cycle again in the spring.
Locust Migration
All locusts are grasshoppers, but not all grasshoppers are locusts — wait, what? Let’s break this down a little further. There are thousands of species of grasshoppers, but only a select few of those can transform into locusts.
This transformation occurs when grasshoppers are forced to crowd together due to limited vegetation. Under these conditions, solitary grasshoppers start seeking out other insects to form groups. The close proximity triggers a surge in serotonin, making them actively seek the company of others. At the same time, they undergo physical changes, developing larger, more muscular bodies suited for the long migrations they undertake in search of food.
Unlike monarch butterflies and green darner dragonflies, locusts are destructive pests. A small swarm can consume as much food in one day as 35,000 people. Many swarms find their way to Africa, destroying large supplies of crops intended for human consumption.
Discover the Secret Life of Insects and Jump-Start Your Career
With four unique specialization options, your online graduate certificate or master’s degree in entomology from the University of Florida can help distinguish you from the competition. As the number-one ranked entomology and nematology program in the world, our renowned professors have developed an innovative curriculum for each of the following four specializations:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
Choose from a 15-credit online graduate certificate or 30-credit online master’s degree in the entomology specialization of your choice, and complete the program at your own pace. We offer competitive tuition rates and accept students year-round. Ready to get started? We look forward to reviewing your application!
Sources:
https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/the-great-monarch-migration
https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/pollinators/Monarch_Butterfly/migration/index.shtml
https://www.fws.gov/story/phenomenal-monarch-migration
https://www.backyardecology.net/green-darner-dragonfly-a-migratory-dragonfly/
https://www.livescience.com/locusts.html
When you hear children talk about what they want to be when they grow up, you often hear responses like “firefighter” or “teacher,” with the occasional “magical princess” thrown in for good measure. What you’re much less likely to hear from a five-year-old is something like, “I want to be a vector control specialist.”
But if you were once a child enamored by the fascinating lives of insects, a career in entomology might have felt like a calling long before you knew what the word meant.
There are a plethora of careers to choose from in this dynamic field, and today we’re exploring five entomology careers you may have not yet considered.
#1 Forensic Entomologist
If you were a fan of the show “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” or one of its many spin-off series, you may have imagined what it would be like to be part of the forensic crew investigating an active crime scene.
With a background in insect biology, you could play the crucial role of forensic entomologist. In this capacity, one of your primary responsibilities would involve analyzing the insects found at the scene of a homicide, typically on or near the victim, to determine that victim’s estimated time and manner of death.
Other responsibilities of forensic entomologists include:
- Photographing victims of homicide scenes and documenting insect-related evidence.
- Collecting samples of adult and immature insects from on, inside and beneath the corpse.
- Collaborating with law enforcement officials.
- Providing expert testimony in criminal investigations.
#2 Medical Entomologist
If you’re an avid hiker, you’re probably familiar with the routine of performing tick checks after a day spent in the woods, meticulously examining exposed skin to ensure no ticks have latched on. This precaution is crucial because ticks can harbor Borrelia bacteria, the culprit behind Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is just one of many conditions that can be transmitted to humans by insects. Mosquitoes, fleas and other insects also carry microbes that can cause potentially harmful diseases in humans.
That’s where medical entomologists come in. They investigate the following three organisms and play a fundamental role in reducing the transmission of vector-borne diseases:
- The pathogen
Pathogens are disease-causing organisms, such as viruses or bacteria. Understanding the characteristics of various pathogens helps medical entomologists determine how they’re transmitted and how they affect human health.
- The insect vector
The insect that carries the pathogen, such as ticks or mosquitoes, are insect vectors. Identifying these vectors is essential in controlling the spread of these diseases.
- The vertebrate host
Humans and other mammals usually become the vertebrate hosts infected with the aforementioned pathogens. One responsibility of medical entomologists is identifying invertebrate hosts involved in the transmission cycle of a disease. This task is paramount in understanding the disease’s epidemiology and developing effective control measures.
#3 Insect Photographer
Could you combine your passion for photography with your fascination with insects and turn it into a career? Quite possibly! Insect photographers capture images of insects and other arthropods for a variety of purposes, including:
- research
- conservation
- education materials
- artistic expression
Because insects’ focal points are smaller than your average subject, insect photographers use specialized equipment to highlight the intricate details of an insect’s morphology, its behaviors and its natural habitats. Insect photographers often work as freelancers for magazines, scientific publications, textbooks and more.
#4 Apiary Manager
Some beekeeping hobbyists aspire to turn their leisurely pastime into a career. Those who’ve worked with bees at a larger scale have the potential to become apiary managers, the individuals responsible for overseeing the operation of multiple beekeeping facilities, often for commercial purposes.
Some of their responsibilities include:
- Maintaining equipment, such as the hive tools, bee smokers and carpentry tools.
- Inspecting colonies for diseases and pests.
- Breeding queen bees.
- Making sure bees have enough food.
- Splitting colonies once a colony becomes too large for one hive.
- Collecting honey at the end of each season.
#5 Agricultural Pest Management Specialist
When it comes to growing large quantities of produce, there are a few types of minute menaces with the potential to significantly decrease the crop’s yield. From aphids to crickets, these small but hungry insects have the power to wreak havoc on an upcoming harvest.
Thanks to agricultural pest management specialists, however, there are still plenty of freshly picked in-season fruits and veggies to choose from in your local produce section. This is largely due to the ability of these professionals to control the pests that damage large-scale crops.
But how do agricultural pest management specialists do it?
They implement integrated pest management programs that control pests while minimizing the use of pesticides, primarily by:
- Conducting pest surveys.
- Monitoring the current and projected insect populations.
- Recommending effective pest control strategies.
Your Pathway to Securing a Career in Entomology Begins at UF
Whether you’re a entomology veteran that wants to advance in your current role or you’re new to the industry and want to gain a foundation of knowledge before entering the workforce, the University of Florida offers several online graduate programs tailored to your unique interests and professional goals.
Both our graduate degree and graduate certificate programs offer four optional specialties:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
By choosing any of the above specialties, you’ll earn a 15-credit graduate certificate as part of your 30-credit graduate degree. The graduate certificate program includes specific courses tailored to each specialty, while the graduate degree program expands on these courses with an additional 15 credits, providing you with a broad understanding of entomology.
Secure your spot for next semester and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/forensic-entomology-use-insects-investigation-homicide-and-untimely
https://www.entsoc.org/resources/education/hall
If you’ve traveled to faraway lands, you may have come across a few local delicacies that, at the time, you considered questionable. “No thank you, I’ll pass on the roasted grasshoppers,” you say as you navigate through stalls of colorful trinkets and street snacks.
While eating insects might not be at the top of your culinary bucket list, many communities in Eastern cultures have been consuming insects for thousands of years. With a rapid increase in the global population, the scientific community has begun exploring the potential roles that insects could play in creating a more sustainable world.
Today, we’re dissecting three benefits of eating insects and the positive implications of embracing entomophagy — the practice of eating insects — on a larger scale.
#1 Nutritional Value
Approximately a quarter of the world’s population, about 2 billion people, consume insects regularly, and many have been doing so for centuries. As a regular part of their diet, you may assume that insects must provide substantial nutritional value — and you’d be correct!
Insects contain a remarkable combination of two essential macronutrients: proteins and fats. They also have significant vitamin, fiber and mineral content that our bodies need for optimum functioning. Of course, with such a robust number of insects available for consumption, the nutritional value of each species varies.
If the idea of eating an insect whole makes you queasy, there’s a less intimidating alternative available. Many insects can be ground into a powder, removing the legs and crunch factor from the equation. This versatile form allows you to mix the powder into a variety of recipes, from cookies to sauces, making it possible for you to have your insects and your protein, too!
#2 Environmental Stability
When it comes to providing a more sustainable environment for our future, insects hold remarkable sway. Below, we discuss several reasons they excel in this area:
- Consumability
Insects generally boast a higher proportion of consumable body mass than farm animals. For example, up to 80% of a cricket is edible to humans. In contrast, farm animals offer a lower amount of available meat for consumption, with pigs providing only 55% edibility.
- Deforestation reduction
Insects require significantly less space and water to develop and cultivate than their farm animal counterparts. If more people partook in entomophagy, there would be a considerably lower amount of deforestation due to less land being needed to farm the insects.
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Properly raising farm animals for food purposes requires a significant outlay of crops. The production of these crops involves clearing more woodland areas and using pesticides, which can contribute to the release of greenhouse gases. In addition, cows, chickens, and pigs produce a lot of manure, releasing methane into the atmosphere as it decomposes. Insects, on the other hand, are a more sustainable option, as they emit much lower amounts of greenhouse gases due to their small size and lower food requirements.
#3 Food Security
The United Nations expects the global population to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, posing significant challenges for food production to meet the increased demand. However, with limited arable land available worldwide, it will be difficult to keep pace with this growing population using traditional farming methods. Insects offer a promising solution by providing an eco-friendly, land-efficient alternative that still offers a nutritious source of protein.
Experience the Number One-Ranked Entomology and Nematology Program in the World
Eating insects isn’t the only way to contribute to creating a more sustainable planet. If you find yourself fascinated with the world of insects or work in the field of entomology, the University of Florida proudly offers several online programs that will not only quench your thirst for all things bugs but also propel your career in entomology forward.
At UF, we understand the challenges that come with balancing a professional and personal life. That’s why our programs are entirely online, giving you the chance to complete them at a pace that aligns with your busy schedule.
We offer four unique specializations, each of which you can complete as either a graduate certificate or as part of our master’s degree programs:
- Medical Entomology
- Landscape Pest Management
- Urban Pest Management
- Beekeeping
With a renowned faculty and multiple programs tailored to complement your current skill set, we’re excited to show you why we’re ranked as the number-one entomology and nematology program in the world.
Sources:
https://guides.loc.gov/entomophagy
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772566921000033
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frsus.2023.1112950/full
https://www.un.org/en/desa/world-population-projected-reach-98-billion-2050-and-112-billion-2100
Many of us consider ladybugs to be symbols of good luck. Spotting one might evoke feelings of optimism or a sense of protection. (Whether that protection is for you or your garden is debatable.)
However, ladybugs aren’t merely cute, spotted critters that evoke nostalgic childhood memories. They’re also the apex predators of the garden world — and extremely beneficial to those looking for ways to rid their gardens of harmful pests.
Today, we’re exploring five reasons ladybugs have rightfully found themselves in the limelight of our Beneficial Species Spotlight series.
#1 They Have a Voracious Appetite
These ruby red insects may look like dainty aristocrats who take their afternoon cuppa with two sugar cubes and a splash of cream, but don’t let their charming, oval-shaped exterior fool you. Ladybugs love to eat.
While they enjoy the occasional sip of nectar or nibble of pollen, a large portion of their diet consists of consuming unwanted garden pests. In fact, they can devour up to 5,000 insects throughout their lifetime, proving themselves to be an extremely helpful natural form of pest control.
#2 They Have a Diverse Palate
Like most humans, many species of ladybugs have a preferred food source. Generally, that’s aphids. Mature ladybugs can consume upwards of 25 aphids each day. This is particularly beneficial for farmers and gardeners, as aphids are small insects known for extracting juices from plant leaves, often leading to discoloration and hindering the plants’ growth.
However, ladybugs don’t consume aphids exclusively. Most will gladly rid your garden of several other unwanted pests as well, including mealybugs, mites and fruit flies.
#3 They’re Helpful in All Stages of Life
Like butterflies, ladybugs go through several stages of metamorphosis. They begin as eggs, progress to larvae and eventually pupae before reaching their final stage in the lifecycle as adults.
While it’s true that adult ladybugs can feast on two dozen aphids in a day, it’s during the larval stage that their appetite for aphids truly shines. Ladybugs in this early stage of development consume the most aphids, devouring about 10 times more than their mature counterparts. This makes ladybug larvae incredibly useful to individuals seeking natural pest removal strategies for their plants.
#4 They Attract Other Pollinators
Ladybugs provide an excellent form of pest control, but they’re also an undervalued member of the unofficial Pollinator Society. Sure, they might not be pollinating as many flowers as bees (okay, they definitely aren’t), but ladybugs do what they can to contribute to the health of garden ecosystems.
By flying from flower to flower in search of nectar and pollen, unknowingly transferring pollen grains from one flower to the next, ladybugs aid the pollination process. This dual role as both predator and pollinator makes ladybugs a double threat in the realms of gardening and farming and invaluable contributors to garden biodiversity.
#5 They Indicate a Healthy Ecosystem
If you notice a ladybug in your vicinity, it’s an excellent indicator that the nearby ecosystem is a thriving one. Maybe that’s why they’re associated with positivity: Their presence signals an ecosystem that’s in harmony.
But why does the presence of a few ladybugs reflect so highly on the health of a garden? Ladybugs thrive in areas where conditions are favorable for their reproduction. As such, they often select locations where their prey is plentiful and somewhere that provides a suitable environment for nesting.
Ladybugs, Praying Mantises and Other Natural Pest Repellents — Oh My!
Whether you’re currently working in the pest industry or you’re simply fascinated by natural pest control methods available and want to learn more, the University of Florida offers several online graduate programs centered around landscape and urban pest management:
Graduate Degrees
Our Master of Science is a customizable 30-credit online program, allowing you to earn not only a Master’s Degree in Entomology and Nematology but also a graduate certificate in one of four specializations, including:
Graduate Certificates
We also offer four online graduate certificates in the specializations listed above. Each program is 15 credits and can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months, entirely online. These certificates will give your resume a competitive edge and provide you with the skillset needed to advance your career in whichever branch of entomology fuels your passions.
Non-Degree Seeking Students
As a non-degree seeking student, you can choose from a diverse set of courses, selecting a course or two that aligns with your interests. This option is ideal for individuals who’d like to test the waters before diving into a program or professionals seeking advanced knowledge on a particular topic.
If accepted into our master’s degree or graduate certificate program, you may be eligible to transfer up to 6 credits if you earned a grade of “B” or higher in your completed courses.
The first step in advancing your career is choosing your online learning path. Browse our program offerings and apply to the option that’s right for you!
Sources:
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/ladybug
http://npic.orst.edu/pest/aphid.html
https://phys.org/news/2018-07-ladybug-aphid-fighters-tend-roam.html
