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Insect Survey and
Identification (Entomology Lab)
The primary functions of
entomology at the Department of Agriculture are
insect survey and identification. Current surveys
being conducted are cereal leaf beetle, gypsy moth,
Japanese beetle, imported fire ant and kaphra
beetle. Other pests are surveyed for on an as needed
basis. Surveys are also conducted when new insect
pests enter the state. The action taken when a pest
is found depends on how severe the pest might become
if established in Nevada. The entomologist also
identifies insects for anyone in the state requiring
the service. Samples maybe submitted a variety of
ways. The can be mailed to the division, sent
through local extension offices or division offices
in outlaying areas or dropped off at our Reno and
Las Vegas offices. Identifications usually take less
than ten working days. The department also has an
excellent reference collection that is maintained by
the entomologist. Other activities include the
introduction and monitoring of organisms for the
biological control of weeds and insects.
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