Jointed Legs and Elevated Expectations: Graduate-Level Entomology as an Undergraduate
Faculty Mentor
Joshua Gibson/Jennifer Zettler
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
Completed
Session Format
Oral Presentation
College
College of Science & Mathematics
Department
School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability
Abstract
Accurate identification of insects and classification is vital to understanding the ecological role insects play on biodiversity, yet requires detailed collection techniques and observation. As part of the Accelerated Bachelors to Masters program, a graduate level entomology course was taken as an undergraduate in the Sustainability Science program in pursuit of the Masters in Environmental Science as an Honors Scholar. Conducting a class requirement of collecting over 100 insect specimens through the Spring 2025 semester from a variety of habitats across the South, provided valuable insights on advanced identification and preservation techniques.
Of the 100 specimens, using morphological characteristics over 70% of the insects were successfully identified to the family level with proper labeling and careful pinning to maintain specimen integrity. Within this collection, insects were categorized ecologically based on feeding behavior, habitat preferences, and functional roles within the ecosystem. Based on the differing habitats, collection methods were adapted to the order of the insect, requiring careful planning and adjustment including use of pitfall traps, Berlese funnel, ariel netting, artificial light and more.
These results demonstrate the effectiveness of habitat-specific collection methods and systematic identification in assessing insect diversity. This project highlights not only taxonomic identification, but also the importance of maintaining the appearance, organization, and documentation of insects for future study. This hands-on experience reinforced the methodological rigor and ecological importance of maintaining insect populations for monitoring ecosystem health and supporting sustainable management practices.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 2:30 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 2:45 PM
Recommended Citation
Pavliscsak, Lily, "Jointed Legs and Elevated Expectations: Graduate-Level Entomology as an Undergraduate" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 239.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/239
Jointed Legs and Elevated Expectations: Graduate-Level Entomology as an Undergraduate
Russell Union Ballroom
Accurate identification of insects and classification is vital to understanding the ecological role insects play on biodiversity, yet requires detailed collection techniques and observation. As part of the Accelerated Bachelors to Masters program, a graduate level entomology course was taken as an undergraduate in the Sustainability Science program in pursuit of the Masters in Environmental Science as an Honors Scholar. Conducting a class requirement of collecting over 100 insect specimens through the Spring 2025 semester from a variety of habitats across the South, provided valuable insights on advanced identification and preservation techniques.
Of the 100 specimens, using morphological characteristics over 70% of the insects were successfully identified to the family level with proper labeling and careful pinning to maintain specimen integrity. Within this collection, insects were categorized ecologically based on feeding behavior, habitat preferences, and functional roles within the ecosystem. Based on the differing habitats, collection methods were adapted to the order of the insect, requiring careful planning and adjustment including use of pitfall traps, Berlese funnel, ariel netting, artificial light and more.
These results demonstrate the effectiveness of habitat-specific collection methods and systematic identification in assessing insect diversity. This project highlights not only taxonomic identification, but also the importance of maintaining the appearance, organization, and documentation of insects for future study. This hands-on experience reinforced the methodological rigor and ecological importance of maintaining insect populations for monitoring ecosystem health and supporting sustainable management practices.
