Don’t let their tiny sizes fool you: Insects are the heavy lifters of our planet. With an estimated five to ten million species worldwide, insects make up more than half of all known life on Earth. They’re also the most diverse animals on the planet, varying widely in shape, behavior and function.
This diversity is critical because different species of insects handle different jobs. Some pollinate specific plants. Others break down certain materials. When one species disappears, the work it did often doesn’t get done, creating gaps that ripple through entire ecosystems.
So what is insect biodiversity, and why is it so important? Let’s take a closer look.
Insects belong to a group of animals called arthropods, defined by a few key features:
They’re also the only invertebrates capable of flight. This superpower allows them to thrive in nearly every corner of the world, and it’s made them astonishingly diverse.
Insect biodiversity refers to the variety of insect species on Earth, how they differ from one another and the roles they play in ecosystems. There are an estimated five to 10 million species across approximately 30 insect orders, although the exact number is debated.
Just five of these orders make up about 80% of the entire insect population:
| Order | Examples |
| Coleoptera | Beetles |
| Lepidoptera | Butterflies, moths |
| Diptera | Flies, mosquitoes |
| Hymenoptera | Ants, bees, wasps, sawflies |
| Hemiptera | True bugs, such as cicadas, leafhoppers and bed bugs |
Even within these five dominant orders, the variety is remarkable — from tiny ants to massive beetles.
Insect biodiversity is essential because insects support food production, ecosystem stability and natural balance. For example, more than 300 different crops that we consume are pollinated by insects. And one in every three bites of food you eat depends on their hard work.
When insect populations are thriving and varied, entire systems stay balanced. But when populations decline or certain species disappear, the effects cascade — affecting everything from crop yields to wildlife populations.
Healthy insect populations contribute to:
When it comes to beneficial insects, honey bees often get the spotlight, but they’re just one piece of a much larger ecosystem. Insect biodiversity — and insect ecology, the way insects interact with plants and animals — is essential to keeping ecosystems healthy and functioning.
Here’s why:
Insects are high in protein, reproduce quickly and are sustainable to raise. They create only small amounts of carbon dioxide, making them an increasingly popular food source. By 2030, experts expect human consumption of insects to grow significantly.
Insects nourish countless species, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish.
In fact:
More than 2,000 insects, in both adult and immature forms are edible, including:
Insects are a primary food source for many animals. When they decline, we decline — and entire food chains get disrupted.
Picture this: You’re out in nature. Around you, butterflies flock to bright flowers and bees hum in a hive nearby. Behind that peaceful scene, there’s critical work happening: work that produces much of our food.
Bees, butterflies and moths are examples of pollinators. They move pollen between the male and female parts of plants for reproduction, which produces crops. Crops pollinated by bees account for 75% of the fruits, nuts and vegetables grown in the U.S. Without them, plant reproduction and food production would suffer, and we’d see higher food prices and less variety at the grocery store.
Different pollinators work with different plants. Some flowers can only be pollinated by specific bee species. This specialization means we need diverse pollinator populations to maintain diverse plant life.
Insects like dung beetles are decomposers: nature’s cleanup crew. They break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the soil.
Other examples of decomposers include:
These insects help break down organic matter, such as fallen leaves, dead plants and animal waste. This process returns nutrients to the soil, which supports healthy plant growth and maintains soil quality.
Different decomposers break down different materials. Termites handle wood, for example, and dung beetles handle waste. Losing even one species means certain materials don’t get recycled efficiently. Without healthy insect populations, entire ecosystems can begin to break down — often faster than people expect.
Despite their importance, insect declines have reached alarming levels. Nearly 40% of insect species are in decline, and about one third are considered endangered. Scientists point to several major causes:
Entomologists study and protect insect populations by monitoring changes in ecosystems and identifying threats to biodiversity. Their work focuses on:
Through field studies, population monitoring, genetic engineering and data analysis, scientists track insect declines and develop strategies to protect ecosystems.
Wondering how you can do your part? Even small changes, like planting pollinator-friendly gardens or supporting conservation initiatives, can make a difference.
Insect biodiversity represents one of the most important and least visible foundations of life on Earth. These small organisms perform enormous ecological tasks every day, often without our awareness or recognition.
In this article, we learned:
Learning about insect biodiversity helps us protect the systems we all rely on.
So, the next time an insect crosses your path, remember: It has an important job to do.
If you find yourself endlessly curious about bugs, ecosystems and the web of life they support, why not take that curiosity further?
The University of Florida offers entirely online, top-ranked graduate programs in entomology with a range of focus areas that reflect just how diverse this field is:
From insect behavior to conservation and pest management, UF’s online programs let you explore the field while learning from leading experts. If the insects around you spark curiosity, UF might be the perfect place to start.
Sources:
https://www.entsoc.org/advocacy/science-policy/resources/position-statements/insects-biodiversity
https://www.insectlore.com/blogs/butterflies/butterfly-pollination
https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/tips-reducing-pesticide-impacts-wildlife
Don’t let their tiny sizes fool you: Insects are the heavy lifters of our planet. With an estimated five to ten million species worldwide, insects make up more than half of all known life on Earth. They’re also the most diverse animals on the planet, varying widely in shape, behavior and function. This diversity is…
The on-screen text that opens 2007’s “Bee Movie” — a cult classic — nods to an old, persistent myth: the idea that bees shouldn’t be able to fly. It states: “According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get…
If you think winter means an icy backyard empty of critters, think again — at least when it comes to insects. Many disappear, but that doesn’t mean they’ve vanished. Some hunker down in hiding, some slow their metabolism and a few even thrive in the cold. Understanding what happens to insects in winter isn’t just…
The on-screen text that opens 2007’s “Bee Movie” — a cult classic — nods to an old, persistent myth: the idea that bees shouldn’t be able to fly. It states:
“According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies anyway. Because bees don’t care what humans think is impossible.”
Entertaining? Absolutely. Scientifically accurate? Not even close. Bees, like other insects with wings, don’t defy the laws of aviation or physics; they exploit them.
Why, then, do so many people think that bees shouldn’t be able to fly? Let’s unpack that myth and explore the complex forces that help insects take to the skies.
To understand how insects fly, we first need to look at birds and bats — the only other animals capable of true, powered flight.
Birds and bats achieve lift, in part, using cambered wings: curved wings that guide air to move faster over the top, reducing pressure and creating lift. Airplanes use this same basic design principle to get off the ground.
Insect wings, however, are more like flat plates than curved airplane wings. So, how can insects fly if they can’t take advantage of these same smooth, fixed-wing aerodynamics?
This question really tripped up early entomologists, who believed insect wings must behave like a miniature version of a plane’s fixed airfoils. In the 1930s, French entomologist Antoine Magnan applied the laws of air resistance to insects and deemed their flight “impossible.” (This is the likely origin of the myth that bees defy the laws of physics.)
The truth: Insects have had roughly 400 million years to fine-tune flight, giving them time to evolve strategies that bats, birds and even airplanes simply don’t use.
Simply put, insects fly by flapping their wings. When an insect sweeps its wings back and forth, it accelerates air downward, and by Newton’s third law of motion (every action has an equal and opposite reaction), that downward push on the air creates an upward force called lift.
With relatively small wings and heavy bodies, bees are a great example of efficient insect flight. Here’s how they do it:
This type of flight is energy-intensive, which helps explain why bees are constantly foraging for high-energy nectar.
So how do small insect wings produce such strong forces?
Because the leading-edge vortex stays attached for much of the stroke, it acts like a lift amplifier, helping insects stay airborne on wings that might otherwise seem too small.
Early researchers like Magnan struggled with insect flight because they believed that insect wings behaved like the fixed wings of an airplane, where high angles of attack usually cause a stall. In reality, flying insects are more like tiny helicopters … flying on tiny hurricanes.
As you might expect, all this wing-flapping takes some serious muscle. Insects generally need at least 12 to 16% of their body mass in flight muscle just to get off the ground. In high-performance fliers, flight muscles can make up 55 to 65% of total body mass: more than half their entire body weight. The more flight muscle an insect has, the stronger, longer or more agile its flight becomes.
Maintaining that muscle is costly, though. Some insects can partially break down their flight muscles when they no longer need to fly, redirecting energy and resources to other needs in response to environmental conditions like population density or food availability.
Here are a few key facts about insect flight to keep in mind:
Not long ago, mysteries like “how bees fly” seemed unsolvable with the tools scientists had. Today, entomologists use high-speed video, robotic wings and sophisticated computer models to peel back the curtain on how insects operate in the air and on the ground.
New discoveries are being made every day, with entomologists studying how climate change affects insect behavior, how to better protect pollinators and how insects communicate. If these mysteries interest you, it might be time to consider a career in entomology.
Entomologists are a lot like you. They love anything with six or more legs and spend their time learning all about insects and other arthropods. The difference is that they get paid for it.
What’s separating you from them? A formal entomology education.
The University of Florida offers 100% online entomology programs designed to help enthusiasts like you turn a love of insects into a rewarding career. Our online medical entomology master’s degree and graduate certificate programs provide key skills needed to pursue careers in public health, research, academia and other medical-entomology-related areas.
Interested? Explore our 100% online entomology programs to see everything they can offer you, then submit your application when you’re ready. Who knows what you’ll discover once you take flight.
Sources:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336312526_Insect_flight_explained_according_to_Newtonian_physics
https://knowablemagazine.org/content/article/living-world/2018/tricks-and-traits-let-insects-take-flight
https://www.businessinsider.com/bees-cant-fly-scientifically-incorrect-2017-12
“Conservation isn’t just a business of a few people, it’s a matter that concerns all of us.” —Walt Disney The link between The Walt Disney Company and the natural world runs deep. From Disney’s Animal Kingdom to its acclaimed “Disneynature” documentaries, the company has long worked to inspire a love of nature through storytelling and entertainment. What may…
You lift the lid of the hive slowly. The sound changes immediately. A low, steady hum rises as thousands of honey bees adjust to the sudden light. You watch their movement before you touch anything: How they cluster. How they fan their wings. Whether the colony feels calm or off. This is what an apiary…
If you’ve ever lived in an apartment building, you might be familiar with how quickly one tenant’s problem becomes everyone’s problem. One leaking pipe on the fourth floor becomes ceiling stains on the third, a ruined floor on the second (and you don’t even want to know what happens on the first floor). Urban pests…
If you think winter means an icy backyard empty of critters, think again — at least when it comes to insects. Many disappear, but that doesn’t mean they’ve vanished. Some hunker down in hiding, some slow their metabolism and a few even thrive in the cold. Understanding what happens to insects in winter isn’t just interesting. It can help gardeners, homeowners and curious science lovers protect their homes from insects looking to move indoors this winter.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at:
Short answer: Most don’t. Insects are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external temperatures to regulate their body heat. When the mercury drops, their metabolism slows.
But cold weather doesn’t always mean death. Many insects have adapted clever strategies to survive. Some dig into the soil, others take shelter under bark and a few species enter a form of dormancy called diapause, or the insect equivalent of hibernation.
So yes, insects can survive cold weather — but they usually prefer to stay out of the frost.
Some species actually thrive when temperatures drop. These insects have unique physiological adaptations that let them tolerate freezing or near-freezing conditions:
These strategies illustrate how evolution equips even tiny creatures for survival against harsh winters.
Not all winter insects are welcome indoors. In fact, most aren’t. But these four pests really exploit the cold to seek warmth, food and shelter:
Even though these bugs aren’t visible in the snowy garden, they may find your home to be the perfect cozy winter retreat.
Keeping bugs out during winter is mostly about removing shelter and food opportunities:
Technically, most insects don’t hibernate like mammals (sorry — they’re not participating in long cave naps like big, fuzzy bears). Instead, they enter diapause, a state of suspended development with slowed metabolism.
During diapause, insects:
Some bugs, like ladybugs, stay partially active, taking advantage of brief warm periods to feed or move indoors. Others, such as mosquitoes, die off, leaving eggs or larvae that will emerge in spring.
Looking for a quick recap? Here are all the details on what really goes on with insects during those cold winter months:
Curious about the science behind insect adaptation and survival (and pest management strategies on a larger scale)? The University of Florida, proudly ranked #1 in entomology and nematology worldwide, offers four distinct online entomology graduate programs:
Depending on your goals, you can pursue a graduate certificate or a master’s degree online in your chosen specialty. You’ll deepen your knowledge in insect biology, ecology and management, gaining the skills to tackle real-world challenges.
Align your passions with the right program and get ready to make an impact wherever your curiosity and skills take you.
Don’t let their tiny sizes fool you: Insects are the heavy lifters of our planet. With an estimated five to ten million species worldwide, insects make up more than half of all known life on Earth. They’re also the most diverse animals on the planet, varying widely in shape, behavior and function. This diversity is…
The on-screen text that opens 2007’s “Bee Movie” — a cult classic — nods to an old, persistent myth: the idea that bees shouldn’t be able to fly. It states: “According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get…
If you think winter means an icy backyard empty of critters, think again — at least when it comes to insects. Many disappear, but that doesn’t mean they’ve vanished. Some hunker down in hiding, some slow their metabolism and a few even thrive in the cold. Understanding what happens to insects in winter isn’t just…
Gene-editing tools. Pest-fighting flies. Insect behavior breakthroughs. 2025 kept entomologists on their toes.
But 2025 also brought serious setbacks. Insect decline continued, especially for pollinators like honey bees. The stinging Asian needle ant has now spread to at least 20 states, and the spotted lanternfly has invaded Virginia.
On the bright side, AI and drones are changing how scientists study insects, helping them map outbreaks, track migrations and flag pest threats at record speed.
So, what’s next for entomology? Let’s break down seven trends making headlines in 2026.
Gene-editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 are becoming powerful weapons in the fight against insect-borne diseases. Researchers in Africa are developing gene-drive mosquitoes that can spread anti-malarial genes through wild populations (though they faced pushback in 2025 due to ethical concerns).
Despite these challenges, researchers are advancing gene-drive technology on multiple fronts.
A UK-Tanzanian program called Transmission Zero has created mosquitoes that can resist the malaria parasite. The team plans to have a gene-drive field trial application ready by late 2026, which could pave the way for controlled releases by early 2027.
And new “reversal drives” are being tested in fruit flies to undo pesticide resistance. This could potentially overhaul sustainable agriculture and pest management.
Robots and drones are literally taking flight across the world’s farms.
In 2025, researchers in Pakistan launched solar-powered smart traps that lure insects, photograph them and use onboard AI to identify pests with up to 94% accuracy. The system even sends farmers real-time SMS alerts with species breakdowns and weather-based predictions for outbreaks.
As costs drop and connectivity improves, expect wider deployment in 2026. AI and drones are now being used for:
The line between entomology and biotechnology keeps blurring. In early 2023, the U.S. approved the world’s first vaccine for honey bees to protect colonies from American foulbrood — a disease that once forced beekeepers to burn entire hives. By 2025, field trials expanded worldwide, marking a turning point in beneficial insect health management.
If successful, this breakthrough could pave the way for future vaccines and immune-priming tools for other vulnerable pollinators and agricultural species.
Meanwhile, on the frontier of human medicine, biotech firms are exploring how to use insect cells to develop vaccines and gene therapies for humans. The future of medicine may just have six legs.
Understanding how insects think could impact everything from pest control to robotics. This year, scientists are getting closer thanks to the growing field of insect neuroethology.
In 2026, scientists are using new tools that let them monitor insect heart rates and stress levels on video without touching them. Whether they’re studying honey bee anxiety or spider temperature responses, researchers are learning how insects process and react to their environment in real time. This research will have major implications for:
Maggots are eating trash to fight climate change … and supply is high.
In France, the world’s largest black soldier fly facility now raises 10 billion larvae at a time, converting food waste into animal feed using AI, robotics and waste heat from a nearby factory.
Insect farming reduces methane and has been shown to reduce emissions up to 30% per unit of feed. The organic insect farming market is projected to reach $4.38 billion by 2030, driven by its sustainability benefits: minimal land use, carbon offset potential and zero need for fertilizer.
The One Health movement recognizes that human health is inseparable from the health of animals, plants and ecosystems. As insect populations decline by an average of 6.6% per year — even without human interference — insect conservation is becoming essential to maintaining that balance. The framework unites:
Beneficial insects pollinate our crops and ensure soil stability. Protecting insect biodiversity is essential to safeguarding global health systems.
Insects are nature’s early warning system for climate shifts. A 2025 study found that insects are highly sensitive to even the slightest temperature changes, which is a major driver in their decline.
In 2026, scientists will start using insect DNA and movement as real-time indicators: radar tracking of migrating moths, DNA sampling from air and soil and behavior-based climate stress models.
Entomology is becoming an interdisciplinary field, blending insect ecology with biotechnology, climate science and AI.
Here’s what to look out for in 2026:
Whether you’re drawn to gene-editing, pollinator conservation or decoding insect intelligence, your future in entomology starts here.
The University of Florida offers the nation’s top-ranked, 100% online entomology graduate programs, placing you right in the center of discovery. Study anytime, from anywhere — even if you’re raising bee hives or chasing butterflies on another continent.
Sound like your kind of journey? Make 2026 the year you begin. Explore UF’s online graduate programs in entomology and apply to join the next generation of scientists shaping the planet’s future.
Sources:
https://getbestpest.com/future-pest-control-innovations-trends
https://www.planning.org/pas/quicknotes/96/climate-resilient-pollinator-gardens
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666154324004587
Don’t let their tiny sizes fool you: Insects are the heavy lifters of our planet. With an estimated five to ten million species worldwide, insects make up more than half of all known life on Earth. They’re also the most diverse animals on the planet, varying widely in shape, behavior and function. This diversity is…
The on-screen text that opens 2007’s “Bee Movie” — a cult classic — nods to an old, persistent myth: the idea that bees shouldn’t be able to fly. It states: “According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get…
If you think winter means an icy backyard empty of critters, think again — at least when it comes to insects. Many disappear, but that doesn’t mean they’ve vanished. Some hunker down in hiding, some slow their metabolism and a few even thrive in the cold. Understanding what happens to insects in winter isn’t just…
If Marvel made a movie about mosquitoes, the villain would be gene editing—and we’d be rooting for it.
Invasive pests cost the United States up to $21 billion per year in economic damages and healthcare costs, with bed bugs being among the costliest to eradicate. There are only a few insecticides registered for the control of many invasive pests, such as the yellow fever mosquitoes, which in turn has led to widespread insecticide resistance. Development of new control methods is warranted for the continued protection of our interests.
Let’s take a closer look at how gene editing is reshaping pest management.
CRISPR is a tool that cuts and tweaks DNA with extreme precision. Think of it like a pair of genetic scissors. In pest control, it’s used to:
Only female mosquitoes bite and transmit diseases like malaria or dengue. By shifting the gender balance or preventing reproduction, scientists can quickly reduce pest populations.
But gene editing isn’t just for pests. The University of Florida’s Citrus Research and Education Center uses CRISPR technology to help citrus crops resist pests and diseases.
While CRISPR is used to cut into genes, gene drives can override natural inheritance. Normally, a gene has a 50% chance of being passed down from each parent. Gene drives “hack” inheritance by forcing nearly 100% transmission of a modified gene. This can collapse entire pest populations in a matter of generations.
For example, a CRISPR-based gene drive in Terni, Italy wiped out caged mosquito populations in eight to 12 generations. While more testing is needed — especially to avoid unexpected effects on ecosystems — large-scale trials are underway in Burkina Faso, Mali and Ghana through projects like Target Malaria.
Scientists use gene editing to control pest populations by releasing modified insects and monitoring their effects on the environment. Before releasing any gene-edited insects, however, they carefully track pest numbers, weather and possible risks like insect resistance. After release, scientists monitor everything from insect reactions to mutations. Some gene-edited insects even glow under light so they’re easier to follow!
A few real-world examples:
These breakthroughs don’t happen in isolation. It’s only when researchers, industry partners and community stakeholders collaborate that they can safely develop, test and monitor gene-edited insects and crops. Key players include:
Despite its promising potential for public health, gene manipulation raises some concerns. Regulators worry that edited species could jump to non-target species or mutate in unexpected ways. There’s also a risk of pests developing resistance, just like they do with pesticides. (Think monster bug-repelling-and-cage-resistant mosquitoes.)
And then there’s the moral minefield: Should we be editing life forms into extinction, even if they’re pests?
While these questions don’t have easy answers, they highlight the importance of open discussion and debate as gene editing technology advances.
To wrap up, let’s quickly review what we’ve learned about gene editing and pest control:
If you’re fascinated by gene-hacking mosquitoes or outsmarting invasive pests, you’re in the right place. As gene editing reshapes how we manage insects — both in public health and agriculture — entomologists are more essential than ever.
The University of Florida offers 100% online, research-driven programs in entomology where you can choose from four career-focused tracks:
Courses include virtual labs, flexible pacing and access to facilities like the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory (FMEL)—a global hub for vector-borne disease research.
UF’s top-ranked programs help you turn your passion into purpose, whether you’re already knee-deep in your career or testing the waters.
Curious? Learn more here.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095311922002763
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 …
Gene-editing tools. Pest-fighting flies. Insect behavior breakthroughs. 2025 kept entomologists on their toes. But 2025 also brought serious setbacks. Insect decline continued, especially for pollinators like honey bees. The stinging Asian needle ant has now spread to at least 20 states, and the spotted lanternfly has invaded Virginia. On the bright side, AI and drones…
Upon first glance, the spotted lanternfly might appear to be a virtuous little moth. With a black and yellow body tucked gracefully inside a pair of radiant red, black and brown wings, they’re a speckled sight to behold. But if you research these colorful insects, you’ll quickly discover that they’re not nearly as innocent as…
Insects, like humans, have a rich microbiome that plays a crucial role in their digestive and overall health. This community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea and protozoa, are known as “symbionts.” They work together to provide life-saving and species-perpetuating benefits to their hosts.
While the human gut microbiome was first hinted at in the 1680s, it wasn’t until the 1860s that it was seriously studied. In contrast, the insect microbiome wasn’t recognized by the scientific community until the 1990s. Understanding the insect microbiome is vital for managing insect populations effectively, as each species has a unique role in nature.
Let’s explore how the microbiota of the insect microbiome influence insect health, survival and resistance to threats such as diseases and pesticides.
Microbiota as Insect Immune System Booster
Honey bees aren’t born (hatched) with their gut microbiome already in place. They obtain it from interaction with other worker bees, generally within their first few days of adult life. Herbicides and antibiotics may interfere with microbiome function, making the bees more vulnerable to disease and death.
Honey bees denied the chance to acquire microbiota in laboratory settings do not survive long if exposed to harmful microorganisms. When microbiota are introduced into their system through inoculation, however, they can better withstand pathogens and resist disease.
Studies have shown that microbiota can aid reproduction in plant-sucking insects like aphids, earwigs, cicadas, mealybugs, bean bugs and stink bugs. For example, the Burkholderia bacteria living in the gut of the bean bug increases egg production in its host.
Stink bugs lack certain nutrients in their diet, including some B vitamins and amino acids. Burkholderia fills in the gaps in their digestive system by producing these nutrients for their host. These bacteria can also induce biosynthesis of a hormone that influences ovarian development and egg growth.
Insects like moths, flies, beetles and bed bugs have bacteria in their gut that degrades pesticides, helping them survive the very chemical and organic compounds we’ve developed to control their numbers.
Mosquitoes are notorious for spreading dangerous diseases like dengue, malaria and West Nile virus. Their resilience against insecticides may be partly due to bacterial symbionts in their gut, which can degrade these chemicals, contributing to their effectiveness as disease vectors.
Every insect species has its function and purpose in nature. However, balance is essential. Excessive mosquito populations can spread diseases, while dwindling bee populations disrupt ecosystems and food chains. Understanding the insect microbiome helps us manage these populations effectively.
The University of Florida offers the world’s top-ranked entomology and nematology program, recognized by the Center for World University Rankings. Where better to study insects and gain credentials that can help you in a broad range of entomology-related careers?
Become a virtual Gator and enjoy these advantages from just about anywhere in the world:
Choose from:
Gain broad entomology knowledge in our general master’s degree program, or choose an area that aligns with your career goals by completing a specialized graduate certificate alongside your degree:
The specialized option enables you to earn two credentials in the same amount of time as the general option. Most students complete their master’s degree program within two to four years.
Not ready to commit to a master’s program? Acquire new expertise and credentials quickly with a graduate certificate in any of the above specializations. Most students complete their certificate within 12-18 months.
Get more details about our programs or apply now.
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…
Numerous factors are at play inside a compost pile, including aeration, moisture, temperature and time. It all comes together to transform grass clippings, fruit scraps and coffee grounds into inorganic nutrients and organic matter. Microorganisms and invertebrates are an essential part of this process, doing much of the heavy lifting in decomposition.
If Marvel made a movie about mosquitoes, the villain would be gene editing—and we’d be rooting for it. Invasive pests cost the United States up to $21 billion per year in economic damages and healthcare costs, with bed bugs being among the costliest to eradicate. There are only a few insecticides registered for the control…
Ground beetles are beneficial insects that provide natural pest control in gardens and agricultural settings. Most species prey on common garden pests like aphids, caterpillars and slugs, helping reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
And while their shiny outer shells can seem intimidating at first glance, ground beetles aren’t harmful to humans. On the contrary; they play an important ecological role in maintaining balanced ecosystems.
In this article, you’ll learn:
The name “ground beetle” refers to all insects in the Carabidae family, also known as carabids. With approximately 40,000 species worldwide, these hardworking insects play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems: fertilizing soil, preying on pests and keeping nature in balance.
Physically, ground beetles range from 0.28 inches to 2.6 inches in length — about the size of a standard pencil eraser to the length of a lipstick tube. No matter their size, they share several common features:
Their coloration varies by species, ranging from deep black to striking metallic hues of green, blue, copper or gold.
Many garden enthusiasts, farmers and ecologists consider ground beetles beneficial insects because they offer effective, pesticide-free pest control. Here’s why they’re vital to our ecosystems:
Want to harness the natural pest control power of ground beetles in your garden? Follow these simple steps to create a beetle-friendly haven:
If you’re passionate about entomology, the University of Florida offers several entirely online programs designed to fit your schedule and career goals. With four specializations, you’re sure to find a path that will lead you to a rewarding career in entomology.
Whether you’re interested in medical entomology, beekeeping, urban pest management or landscape pest management, all of our program specializations are offered in two convenient formats:
As the number one entomology and nematology program in the world, we’re proud to share our expertise through renowned professors, offering the same high-quality education and hands-on learning experiences as our in-person classes.
Explore our online programs and apply today to start your journey next semester!
Sources:
https://eorganic.org/node/33936
https://www.gardenia.net/guide/ground-beetles
Upon first glance, the spotted lanternfly might appear to be a virtuous little moth. With a black and yellow body tucked gracefully inside a pair of radiant red, black and brown wings, they’re a speckled sight to behold. But if you research these colorful insects, you’ll quickly discover that they’re not nearly as innocent as…
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…
Spiders get around in more ways than you might expect. Beyond the familiar scuttle of eight legs, they’ve developed some genuinely strange tricks: riding wind currents through the air, cartwheeling down sand dunes and even building underwater air pockets to live in. In this article, we explore: What Is Spider Ballooning? Spider ballooning is a form of aerial…
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Of course, implementing new practices in the field comes with its own sets of challenges, including:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
There are several steps to check off on the journey toward becoming a forensic entomologist:
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:
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
