Caterino teaching

Michael Caterino's teaching

Insect Taxonomy (ENT 4150/6150)

This upper division/graduate course expands on a basic understanding of Insect identification and classification. It emphasizes recent phylogenetic advances that have affected our views of hexapod classification and evolution. In the mandatory laboratory section, students become intimately familiar with key characters, learning to identify the adults of a large number of insect families. Students are required to make a substantial collection of adult insects. It is offered in odd numbered spring semesters (next in Spring 2019).

Systematics and Biodiversity (ENT 4200/6200)

This upper division/graduate course provides a detailed introduction to principles of systematics and phylogenetic reconstruction, and explore the Tree of Life in detail, reviewing the major evolutionary innovations that have led to proliferation of Earth's major lineages. The course also explores role of evolutionary and systematic studies in conserving the Earth's biodiversity. It is offered in even numbered spring semesters (next in Spring 2020).

Conservation Genetics (ENT 8100)

First taught in Spring 2015, this class provides an overview the use of genetic data in conservation biology. The class reviews basic evolutionary and genetic principles, some lab and analytical techniques, and then goes on to analyze numerous case studies illustrating the variety of questions and approaches conservation genetics entails. It is offered irregularly.

Immature Insects (ENT 8080)

This lab-heavy course involves the identification of immature stages of a large number of insect orders and families. Students learn to use the keys in Stehr's Immature Insects, and make a collection of immature insects. The lecture portion provides an evolutionary perspective on immature insect biology and morphology to complement the identification-focused labs. This course is offered in odd numbered fall semesters (next in Fall 2019).

Special Topics (ENT 8100)

I have led or co-led a number of literature-focused graduate discussion groups, on a variety of topics, including:

• Advanced Methods in Systematic Entomology. This group discussed modern methods for generating morphological and molecular data. Morphological methods included MicroCT scanning, Laser confocal microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, among others. Molecular discussions covered various next generation sequencing approaches.
• The International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. We discussed 'The Code' in depth, as well as some recent and non-so-recent alternative approaches to regulating nomenclature (rank-free; PhyloCode).
• Insect-Microbial Interactions. Symbioses between insects and various microbes (bacteria, fungi, eukaryotes) are critical to the multitude of interactions that insects have in natural and developed systems. This group explored many different systems from both basic and applied perspectives.
• Values of Biodiversity. How have various 'values' (economic, ecological, aesthetic, and ethical) been attributed to insects and other elements of biodiversity, and how can conservation biologists best promote appreciation of these values.