From Arsenic to DDT

Discover the fascinating history of entomology in western Canada with From Arsenic to DDT by RIEGERT. This captivating book, published by the University of Toronto Press in 1980, spans 277 pages and chronicles the evolution of insect study from the era of early explorers to the onset of the Second World War.

Riegert vividly recounts the challenges posed by various insect populations, including the relentless mosquitoes that plagued Danish explorer Jens Munk on the shores of Hudson Bay in 1619 and the catastrophic grasshopper infestations of the 1930s. This engaging narrative not only highlights the struggles faced by those in the field but also emphasizes the critical role entomology played in understanding and managing these insect hordes.

If you're interested in the intersection of science, history, and the environment, From Arsenic to DDT is a must-read that offers valuable insights into the world of insects and their impact on human life.