ENTO 605: Insect Physiology and Biochemistry

The insect integument; the moulting process and sclerotization. Differential growth and post-embryonic development. Locomotion, with emphasis on flight. Feeding, excretion, circulation, respiration and reproduction. in insects. Nervous system and its integration with the endocrine system. Insect hormones: their structure, modes of action and use in pest control. Diapause. Pheromones and their role in insect behaviour and control. Perception in insects. Bioluminiscence. Colours in insects, with emphasis on mimicry and camouflage. Other defence mechanisms. 
General introduction to insect metabolism. Production of energy from carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids. Energy utilization in biosynthesis, flight and light generation. Metabolism of nitrogenous compounds, including purines, pteridines, pyroles, proteins, and nucleic acids. Insect hormones and their biochemical activities: moulting hormones (e.g. ecdysone), juvenile hormones and pheromones. Mode of action of insecticides, with emphasis on the biochemistry of nerve impulse conduction. Biochemistry of insecticide resistance mechanisms.