Arthropod Identification and Surveys: Subcourse MED170

Each year, advances in modern technology and research reduce the incidence of disease in humans. Disease is still a problem, however, in many areas of the world, principally in underdeveloped countries. Arthropods play an active role in this problem as they are the primary vectors of disease. In many cases, the success of disease eradication depends upon a knowledge of the arthropod vector. It is imperative, then, that those individuals dealing with arthropod-borne diseases be able to identify medically important arthropods. Neither survey, collection, nor control programs can possibly be effective unless an individual knows what to look for and where to find it. The preventive medicine specialist, therefore, must be famiIiar with the bionomics (biology, behavior, and ecology) of a wide range of arthropod pests. A knowledge of the habits and habitats of medically important arthropods is a necessary basis for further entomological work. The objective of this subcourse is to provide the foundation required to develop field competence in medical entomology. Use of this information properly wiII assure success in survey, collection, and control of medically important arthropods.