An up-to-date order-by-order introduction and reference handbook for students of biological sciences in general and entomology in particular. Covers all the important groups on a worldwide basis. A concise guide to the insect orders and to what makes insects special and successful. The book is in three sections: a straightforward introduction to insect biology; a section on field work; and an order-by-order catalogue of the insects giving essential facts and details of life-histories, highlighting what makes each order distinct To make the material as accessible as possible, the information for each order is presented in a standard manner. Throughout, the book is written in a straightforward style with as little technical language as possible. Essential terms are fully explained in context with marginal notes. Includes a pictoral aid the identification of the orders and key references. Contains specially commissioned illustrations by RICHARD LEWINGTON.