The Encyclopedia of Entomology is an
attractive three-volume set that fills a previously unexplored niche—a
comprehensive multisubject reference—in the entomological literature.
Dr. John L. Capinera, the editor, and more than 350 international
experts collaborated to create this reference set. The books are
organized alphabetically, with volume one spanning A through E, volume
two F through O, and volume three P through Z.
This work addresses several subjects associated with
the discipline of entomology, which are detailed at the beginning of
volume one in the "Highlights of the Encyclopedia of Entomology"
section. The Encyclopedia emphasizes 15 primary topics: 1. major taxa of
insects and their near relatives, 2. other groups, 3. morphology, 4.
physiology, 5. genetics, 6. behavior, 7. ecology and evolution, 8.
microbiology and pathology, 9. humans and insects, 10. notable and
pioneer entomologists, 11. pest management, 12. pesticides and pesticide
application, 13. pest groups and their management, 14. medical and
veterinary entomology, and 15. arthropods of economic importance. The
"major taxa" are orders; and "other groups" are mostly notable arthropod
suborders, families, or genera. Multiple subtopics are listed for each
main category, and the end result is an impressive array of information,
with the more than 850 subtopics covering subjects as diverse as insect
learning, meiotic drive, butterfly gardening, fossil insects,
Microdon, arthropod viruses, potato pests, teaching entomology,
tritrophic interactions, bluetongue disease, Willi Hennig, and cat
fleas. It would be interesting to know the criteria for the inclusion of
specific subtopics, such as individual distinguished entomologists or
economically significant arthropods. Capinera or one of the specialists
composed entries on subtopics listed in the "Highlights" section; he
also wrote most of the unaccredited material (mainly definitions and
cross-referenced subjects) that make up the remainder of the books.
The Encyclopedia of Entomology is intended
primarily for college and university students, and secondarily as a
general reference. The editor believes that a schism exists between
entomologists and the public, and that entomological knowledge is not
adequately disseminated, even though arthropods have an enormous impact
on our world. Therefore, the books’ goals are to provide a general
summary of insects and related arthropods, communicate essential
information about the importance of arthropods, and make entomological
discoveries and fascinating facts accessible. In addition, because
entomological literature is often not readily available to
nonscientists, the authors provide numerous references throughout the
volumes.
Capinera et al. cover an admirable amount of
material, which is a difficult task because of the interdisciplinary
nature of entomology; and it is convenient to have such a wide variety
of information in one location. And although it is impossible to include
or address every subject, some topics were overlooked or
underrepresented. One frustrating characteristic of the encyclopedia is
that highly specific entries are discussed at length (i.e., parasitism
of Lepidoptera defoliators in sunflower and legume crops and adjacent
vegetation in the Pampas of Argentina), whereas comparable sections for
related subjects (i.e., other parts of the world, alternative pests, or
different crops) are lacking. Furthermore, some of the entry titles are
quite obscure, and it is unlikely a reader would think to search under
certain headings (e.g., methods for measuring crop losses by
insects, or mechanical protection of humans from arthropod attacks and
bites). Increased entry cross-referencing, title revisions, and an index
might improve this problem. Although the general degree of
cross-referencing is good, it could be improved (e.g., "bulb
mites" and "mite pests of crops in Asia" referenced under mites, a
separate entry for Acari, etc.). Also, because of the alphabetical
organization of these volumes, readers may be frequently switching
between all three books.
Another negative aspect of this reference set is the
disparity in entry composition. Although this is likely related to the
scope of the work and the number of authors, the composition could be
more uniform. Entries written by experts are often lengthy and include
references; whereas other sections are extremely brief (a few lines) and
lack references. Additionally, although the book is partially intended
for nonentomologists, some of the writing, terminology, and technical
aspects may be too advanced for novices. Thus, the overall feel of the
Encyclopedia of Entomology is a cross between an encyclopedia and
a dictionary.
However, these volumes have several attributes that
make them a valuable resource. One outstanding feature is the succinct
summary and organization of an enormous amount of material related to
entomology. Most entries listed in the "Highlights" section are further
subdivided within the text. For example, "decomposer insects" contains
general information, as well as specific sections on 1. decomposers of
plants remains, 2. entomofauna of excrement and corpses, 3. decomposers
of corpses, 4. forensic entomology, 5. decomposers of excrement, and 6.
beneficial actions of decomposer insects in ecosystems. Thus, each
subtopic is thoroughly discussed in a scholarly manner. Explanations of
terminology, structures, and basic concepts make this set extremely
useful to students and other beginners; and the alphabetical layout
makes these books easy to navigate. Another convenient feature is the
taxonomic breakdown of each order, and cross-referencing of families and
other groups. Additionally, the Encyclopedia has numerous
high-quality pictures, diagrams, and graphs, although extra visuals are
always beneficial. Overall, these books provide an extensive overview of
entomological information and a solid foundation from which readers may
explore more advanced resources.
A unique reference, the Encyclopedia is appropriate
for introductory entomology classrooms, undergraduate and graduate
students, and the public. Students will find this a handy resource for
finding basic facts, exploring research topics, and studying for
preliminary examinations. Teachers can consult the books for background
information for lectures or labs. Although this set may not be overly
helpful to extension agents or researchers who require more specific
materials, anyone with an interest in entomology, even professional
entomologists, will find these books a useful reference. In
summary, Capinera and his coauthors have done an admirable job in
creating the Encyclopedia of Entomology, and although the price
tag may be somewhat detrimental for students, these books are worth the
expense.
