To introduce students to the principles of modern biological control of arthropod pests and weeds. The biology of the major groups of biological-control agents will be discussed, with emphasis on attributes of effective natural enemies. Application of ecological theory in both classical and augmentative biological control will be emphasized. Examples will focus on California agriculture whenever possible, and will include the integration of biological control with other suitable tactics for management of pests.
Office Hours: No specific office hours; stop by at anytime or make an appointment (a phone call to be sure we are in may save you time, as we may have committee meetings, guest lectures, research projects or may be out of town).
ENTRY LEVEL/Prerequisite:
Please note that either Entomology 100 or 110 is a prerequisite for this course. Students who have not taken either course (or the equivalent), should obtain the consent of the instructors before permanently enrolling. We assume that students have a good understanding of entomology and entomological terms. If a student lacks a course in entomology, we need to know beforehand so that we can determine whether (1) it is advisable for the student to enroll in the course or (2) he or she has sufficient background to acquire entomological knowledge through supplemental readings.
Textbook:
There is no textbook for this course. Numerous reference books are on reserve in Shields Library. We may assign some readings from these reserve books from time to time. Required readings may also be passed out in lecture.
Course Format:
Three lectures and one 3-hour laboratory per week.
Mid-term, laboratory final, and course final examinations will be given.
Lecture Outline:
A lecture outline (including references) will be passed out for each topic considered. The purpose of these outlines is to assist students in organizing their notes and to indicate the major references for the various topics. Taking notes solely on the lecture outline is not advisable.
Laboratory:
The laboratory session will emphasize first-hand experience with pathogens, predators, and parasites. Full details will be given during the first laboratory session on Wednesday, April 2.
Grades:
The mid-term examination, the laboratory final at the last laboratory session, and the final examination will each count one-third toward the final grade. If time permits, the final course examination may be given orally.
Entomology 110 is devoted to principles of pest management; the laboratory (110L) covers specific agricultural pests--their identification and biology. Course 135 treats only one tactic in pest management and deals with specific pests only as examples.
