Agricultural Entomology

Agricultural Entomology presents a global view of the insect groups that are of major significance to human resources. "Agriculture" in this broad sense includes plants grown for food, horticultural field crops, and other ornamentals. Information is also included on insect pests of stored products, forest resources, and livestock, although in less detail. The book is intended for use as a college text and reference and assumes a basic knowledge of entomology but is also of great value outside the classroom for its comprehensive and detailed approach. There is a chapter on beneficial insects, including pollinators, honeybees, silkworms, and insects from which shellac and cochineal are made. Hundreds of high-quality line drawings and black-and-white photographs illustrate the insects, and an illustrated glossary and indexes of scientific and common names are provided. Almost all countries of the world are undergoing agricultural diversification programs with the introduction of new and exotic crops. Yet most books on insect pests restrict coverage to one country or region or to the tropics or temperate zones. The global approach of Agricultural Entomology emphasizes the similarities and important differences between insect pests of the major continents. It thus brings attention to insect species that might well spread as pests to new geographical areas. Closely related species are also treated, highlighting problems of control that could result from unsubstantiated identifications. Agricultural Entomology is a valuable resource for growers and gardeners interested in the developing field of integrated pest management. With copious information on the biology of insects around the globe, this authoritative and comprehensive book is an essential tool for anyone interested in understanding both the foes and allies of the insect world.