Bugs in the System: Insects and Their Impact on Human Affairs - Paperback

by May Berenbaum (Author)

An introduction to insect physiology, genetics and behaviour which looks at the interaction between humans and insects, and explores both the positive and negative aspects of the relationship.

Back Jacket

The vast majority of people consider it a high priority to minimize the extent of their interaction with the insect world. Homes are sealed, sprayed, and kept meticulously clean so as to reduce the probability that they will be invaded by insects; similarly, bodies are bathed, hair is shampooed, and clothing regularly washed in order to eliminate any unwanted contact with six-legged life forms. In the overwhelmingly vast majority of daily conversations, insects are conspicuous in their absence; those rare conversations in which insects feature prominently are generally carried out in guarded tones, often with a touch of embarrassment.

Author Biography

May Berenbaum is professor of entomology at the University of Illinois. She's the author of 99 Gnats, Nits and Nibblers and More Maggots, Mites, and Munchers.