Insects as a group occupy a middle ground in the biosphere between bacteria and viruses at one extreme, amphibians and mammals at the other. The size and gen eral nature of insects present special problems to the student of entomology. For example, many commercially available instruments are geared to measure in grams, while the forces commonly encountered in studying insects are in the mil ligram range. Therefore, techniques developed in the study of insects or in those fields concerned with the control of insect pests are often unique. Methods for measuring things are common to all sciences. Advances sometimes depend more on how something was done than on what was measured; indeed a given field often progresses from one technique to another as new methods are discovered, developed, and modified. Just as often, some of these techniques fmd their way into the classroom when the problems involved have been suffici ently ironed out to permit students to master the manipulations in a few labo ratory periods. Many specialized techniques are confined to one specific research laboratory. Although methods may be considered commonplace where they are used, in another context even the simplest procedures may save considerable time. It is the purpose of this series (1) to report new developments in methodology, (2) to reveal sources of groups who have dealt with and solved particular entomological problems, and (3) to describe experiments which might be applicable for use in biology laboratory courses.

Handbook of Sampling Methods for Arthropods in Agriculture offers a comprehensive look at the principles and practicality of developing accurate sampling programs for arthropod pests and their arthropod enemies. The book examines developments in sampling populations and reviews sampling plans that produce accurate and affordable population estimates. The text stresses practicality, as well as the theoretical background of sampling. This book will be an indispensable reference for researchers, students, and practitioners in entomology and agriculture.

Handbook of Soybean Insect Pests is the first book in a new series from the Entomological Society of America that examines pest management from all angles—magnifying practical field strategies for growers—and updates growers on the latest protection techniques—preventing needless crop loss as a result of outdated pest control procedures. Edited by Leon G. Higley and David J. Boethel, this book outlines fundamental approaches to soybean pest management that can aid in reducing crop damage and loss. It provides detailed descriptions of topics such as insect identification, life-history data, and management options. This comprehensive guide includes discussions on soybean ecology and physiology, soybean insect pests, predators and parasitoids, soybean pest management procedures, noninsect soybean pests, and insect management. Also included are 92 color photographs, 200 illustrations, a directory of resources for obtaining local information, and a glossary.