1-3.
SUBCLASSIFICATION OF THE CLASSES
Each class of arthropods is further divided into orders, families, and genera; and
each genus is divided into the various species. The species division, particularly, is
usually a true biological grouping in that members have common characteristics and
can successfully mate only with members of their own species. For example, the
classification of the mosquito that transmits yellow fever (Aedes aeqypti) is:
a. Phylum--Arthropoda.
b. Class--lnsecta.
c. Order--Diptera.
d. Family--Culicidae.
e. Genus--Aedes.
f. Species-aeqypti.
NOTE: When writing scientific names, the first letter of the (generic) name is always
capitalized and the species name is not capitalized; both are underlined. The complete
scientific name includes the name or initials of the person who gave that particular
species its name (Anopheles Walkeri Theobald, for example, was described and named
by Theobald). When referring to more than one species within the same genus, the
abbreviation spp. (species plural) is used. An example would be Culex spp. The
complete specific name of the yellow fever mosquito is Aedes aegypti (L) that was
named by Linnaeus.
1-4.
HOW ARTHROPODS AFFECT HUMAN HEALTH
Aside from transmitting some of the deadliest diseases known, arthropods affect
humans in other ways.
a. Entomophobia. Entomophobia is defined as an intense fear of insects and
other arthropods. Although most persons find the presence of arthropods unpleasant,
there are some people who actually lose control of their emotional state of well being
and cannot function at the sight of or contact with certain types of arthropods. WhiIe
fear may go away after the person learns more about arthropods, psychologically based
entomophobia may not be easiIy cured and could intensify with increased knowledge of
the habits and habitats of arthropods.
b. Injury. Arthropods can inflict painful injury to humans through their bites.
They can cause injury to the sense organs such as the eye, the ear, and the nose.
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