Entomology

Entomology, derived from the Ancient Greek terms for “insect” and “study”, is the branch of zoology devoted to insects. Entomologists investigate the biology, ecology, behaviour, taxonomy and evolution of insects, which represent the most diverse group of animals on Earth. Although the term “insect” was historically applied more broadly to various arthropods, modern entomology is largely confined to members of the class Insecta. In American English the field is sometimes referred to as insectology, while in British English this term more often denotes the study of interactions between insects and humans.
Over 1.3 million insect species have been formally described, with many more known and yet to be described. Due to the enormous diversity of insects and their ubiquity across ecosystems, entomology has long been relevant to agriculture, medicine, public health, ecological management and forensic science.

Historical Development

Interest in insects dates back to antiquity, with early descriptions arising in the context of agriculture, beekeeping and natural observation. Classical authors such as Pliny the Elder wrote about insects in descriptive terms, and early scholars in the Arab world produced treatises on specific insect groups.
The emergence of modern entomology began in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Ulisse Aldrovandi’s Concerning Insect Animals (1602) and Jan Swammerdam’s detailed studies of anatomy and metamorphosis were landmark achievements. Maria Sibylla Merian’s illustrated work on Surinamese insects in 1705 combined scientific accuracy with artistic skill, offering unprecedented insight into life cycles and ecological relationships.
From the eighteenth century onward, the organisation of insect collections and natural history societies encouraged more systematic classification. European cabinets of curiosities evolved into formal institutions for taxonomy, fostering an era of global specimen collecting and communication among naturalists. This period is often called the era of heroic entomology.
In Britain, William Kirby is regarded as the father of English entomology. His Introduction to Entomology, produced jointly with William Spence, laid the foundations for entomology as a scientific discipline. Kirby also helped to establish the Royal Entomological Society in 1833.
The nineteenth century brought rapid expansion as colonial trade, agriculture and scientific research spurred interest in insects of economic importance. Universities created formal training programmes, and economic entomology emerged as a profession. Well-known figures such as Charles Darwin, Jean-Henri Fabre, Vladimir Nabokov, Karl von Frisch and E. O. Wilson made lasting contributions to insect biology, behaviour and evolutionary theory.
Museum curators and research assistants also played important roles, with individuals such as Sophie Lutterlough at the Smithsonian contributing to scientific collections and taxonomic knowledge.

Identification and Classification

Insect identification is a central component of entomology. While most insects can be assigned to broad taxonomic groups such as orders—examples include Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera—determining the exact genus or species can be extremely challenging. Many diagnostic features are minute, requiring the use of microscopes and detailed identification keys or monographs.
The immense species richness of insects, including over 330,000 species of beetles alone, has inspired the development of automated identification technologies such as DAISY, ABIS, SPIDA and Drawwing. These tools aim to support both specialists and amateurs in classification tasks.

Applications in Pest Control and Certification

Entomology plays a pivotal role in pest management. In 1994 the Entomological Society of America introduced the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) programme to professionalise pest control practice. While most entomologists pursue advanced academic degrees, ACE certification allows experienced practitioners to demonstrate competence in insect biology and control.
Further certification pathways include Public Health Entomology (PHE), Certified IPM Technicians (CIT) and Board Certified Entomologists (BCE). These require examinations, adherence to ethical codes and ongoing professional development. PHE certification focuses on arthropods that spread diseases, while CIT certification emphasises integrated pest management. BCE qualification involves broader scientific expertise and continuing education.

Forensic and Medical Entomology

Forensic entomology applies knowledge of insect life cycles and succession patterns to legal investigations. By examining insects on corpses or at crime scenes, forensic entomologists can estimate post-mortem intervals, reconstruct timelines and identify environmental conditions relevant to investigations.
Medical entomology concerns arthropods that affect human and animal health. This includes insects that transmit pathogens such as mosquitoes, fleas, lice and biting flies. Veterinary entomology overlaps closely, as many diseases affecting animals can also impact humans. Medical entomologists study vector behaviour, ecology and epidemiology and provide public outreach to support health services and emergency responses.

Subdisciplines within Entomology

Given the wide scope of insect diversity, many entomologists specialise in particular groups. Subdisciplines often have names derived from the scientific names of insect orders or families. Examples include:

• Coleopterology for beetles
• Dipterology for flies
• Odonatology for dragonflies and damselflies
• Hemipterology for true bugs
• Isopterology for termites
• Lepidopterology for moths and butterflies
• Apiology for bees
• Formicology for ants
• Orthopterology for grasshoppers and crickets
• Trichopterology for caddisflies
• Vespology for social wasps

These areas allow detailed study of anatomy, physiology, behaviour, ecology and evolutionary relationships.

Organisations and Collections

Entomologists are supported by numerous scientific societies worldwide. Prominent examples include the Royal Entomological Society, the Entomological Society of America, the Australian Entomological Society and the Entomological Society of New Zealand. Many societies publish journals and organise conferences dedicated to research and conservation.
Large insect collections are integral to taxonomy, biodiversity studies and conservation work. Major collections are held by museums, universities and research institutes across Asia, Africa, Australasia, Europe and North America. These serve as reference points for species identification and provide essential material for evolutionary and ecological research.

Research Significance and Cultural Influence

Entomology continues to expand as new technologies such as molecular genetics, imaging techniques and automated classification systems transform the field. Insects remain crucial to ecological processes, agriculture, pollination, nutrient cycling and biological control. They also feature in culture, literature and art, inspiring fascination and scientific inquiry alike.