entomologia

Entomology is the scientific study of insects, a diverse and widespread group of arthropods. The term comes from Greek entomon, insect, and logos, study. Insects are characterized by a three-part body plan, six legs, compound eyes, and usually wings in many life stages, though there is much variation.

The field covers taxonomic classification, anatomy, physiology, development, behavior, ecology, and evolution, with both fundamental and applied aims. Major subfields include taxonomy and systematics; insect morphology and physiology; ecology and behavior; evolutionary biology; and applied branches such as agricultural entomology, medical and veterinary entomology, urban entomology, forensic entomology, and conservation entomology.

Research methods combine fieldwork for discovery and monitoring with laboratory techniques. Field methods include insect nets, pitfall traps, light traps, and Malaise traps; lab work includes microscopy, dissection, rearing, and increasingly molecular tools such as DNA barcoding and genomics to study relationships and identify species.

Entomology has practical importance in agriculture, where insects can be pests or beneficial pollinators; in public and veterinary health, where some insects transmit diseases; in ecosystem services, biodiversity assessments, and climate studies. The history of entomology spans ancient naturalists to modern genetic and ecological research, with key contributions from scientists such as Linnaeus and others.

Education typically involves university degrees in biology or related fields, specialized training, field experience, and participation in scientific societies and journals.