Fundamentals of Entomology

Introduction

• The word “Insect” originates from the Greek word insecare, meaning “cut into pieces” or “segmented.”
• Insects belong to the Phylum Arthropoda, the largest phylum in the Kingdom Animalia.
• Insects are tracheate arthropods, meaning they respire through tracheal tubes.
• Their body is divided into three segments:
  • Head
  • Thorax
  • Abdomen

• Insects typically have:

• Two pairs of wings
• Three pairs of legs
• One pair of antennae

• Entomology is a branch of zoology that deals with the study of insects.
  1. Derived from the Greek words:

• Entomon = Insect
• Logos = Study

Branches of Entomology

• Forensic Entomology – Study of insects used in crime investigations.
• Veterinary Entomology – Study of insects affecting livestock and veterinary animals.
• Medical Entomology – Study of insects in relation to human health.
• Agricultural Entomology – Study of insects affecting crops and agricultural productivity.
• Industrial Entomology – Use of insects in industries (e.g., silkworms in silk production).
• Forest Entomology – Study of insects affecting forest trees and ecosystems.

History & References in Ancient Literature

• Insects in Indian Texts:
  • Ramayana and Mahabharata mention several insects:

• • • Pipilika (Ant)
    • Pathanga (Grasshopper)
    • Madhumakshika (Honeybee)

• • Mahabharata (1424–1366 BC) refers to:

• • • Silk production
    • Honey collection
    • Lac insect (Lakshagriha – House of Lac)

• Amarkosha (Sanskrit Dictionary) – First Indian work classifying insects.
• Sushruta Samhita (100–200 AD) – Mentions insect-borne diseases.
• Umaswati (0–100 AD) – Classified insects into six-legged and eight-legged types.

Major Pests of National Importance

Certain insects cause severe economic damage to crops, forestry, and stored grains:

• Locusts (e.g., Desert Locust – Schistocerca gregaria)
• Termites (White Ants)
• White Grubs (Root-feeding beetle larvae)
• Aphids, Thrips, and Mealybugs – Suck plant sap and transmit diseases

Contributions of Renowned Scientists in Entomology

Key Developments in Indian Entomology

Important Entomological Institutions in India and Abroad