Entomology is the basic and applied science of insects and their relatives such as ticks and mites. Insects are the most numerous and diverse forms of life on earth; they are essential constituents of virtually every terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem. While society benefits from the many diverse roles played by the vast majority of insects, some species may become limiting factors in the production, processing and storage of our food and fiber crops, and to the health and wellbeing of humans and animals. The knowledge and skills possessed by entomologists are essential components of modern integrated pest management strategies designed to safely and efficiently produce adequate food supplies for a continuously expanding world population, and to impede the transmission of insect-borne diseases, while at the same time protecting our endangered species and fragile ecosystems.