WHAT IS ENTOMOLOGY?— STRONG 383 



Industrial and commercial concerns have also entered the field of 

 treating of insects, studying and developing facts as well as producing 

 materials used for control and applying treatments developed. This 

 commercial and industrial aspect is additional recognition of the science 

 of entomology. The science that treats of insects must not overlook 

 its importance, for in its application industry has an essential part. 

 What is the practical importance of knowing the toxic effect of a 

 chemical on the insect unless industry can make it available for use? 



Entomological work has grown rapidly in colleges and universities. 

 State experiment stations are accompHshing things of great impor- 

 tance to agriculture and to humanity. The State of Florida, for 

 example, has profited more than is reahzed from such work. The 

 eradication of citrus canker in this State saved the citrus industry. 

 It was accomplished by men trained in entomological and eradication 

 work. The eradication of the Mediterranean fruit fly was accom- 

 plished only because men trained in entomological work and in 

 eradication practices were in Florida and available ; not only available 

 but unafraid and with that vision which is necessary to great accom- 

 phshments. In these two programs alone major catastrophes were 

 averted. 



So, finally, what is entomology? That branch of zoology that treats 

 of insects, as Mr. Webster said? Undoubtedly, and much more. It is a 

 science that contributes materially and without ostentation to the 

 health, comfort, welfare, and happiness of the human race and of a 

 large part of the animal kingdom. 



31508— S8 -27 



