ENTOM 3630

Bugs in Bugs– Insect Pathology and Immunity

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

This course focuses on the fascinating and diverse associations between microorganisms and invertebrates that make it possible for invertebrates to damage crops, feed on wood, and eat blood, as well as vector pathogens of animals and plants. In addition, microorganisms can act as parasites/pathogens; we protect against some of these, like microbes causing bee diseases, while others are used for environmentally safe control of pests. We will discuss insect/microbe biology, ecology and evolution across the diversity of these interactions. Some lectures will provide demonstrations so that students can view and work with microbes and parasitoids and invertebrate hosts. Lecture periods will also include some on-campus field trips.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: general biology.

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2022SP, 2020SP, 2018SP

Outcomes

• Learn the basic concepts about and general characteristics of different types of microbial pathogens, vectored microbes and symbionts associated with invertebrates.
• Improve ability to work collaboratively yet evaluate data independently.
• Improve ability to articulate, investigate and write about host/microbe interactions.
• Gain hands' on experience identifying, manipulating and studying infectious invertebrate pathogens during demonstration laboratories.

When Offered Spring.

Comments Offered alternate years.

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