Preface

Arthropods are the most abundant and diverse group of invertebrate animals in existence. They have many purposes including pollination, food for both humans and domestic animals, bioindication, biological pest control, and more. Unfortunately, like all species of animals and plants existing in the world, arthropods face serious conservation problems and the risk of extinction.

This book covers topics such as arthropods as food for humans, arthropods as a bioindicator species, use of arthropods in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, arthropods and their conservation status, diets for raising arthropods, models that relate arthropods to climate change, enemies that biologically control some insect pests, and the coloration of flowers and its relationship with pollination by butterfly species. It is a useful reference for undergraduate and graduate students, academics, researchers, and anyone interested in learning more about this important group of invertebrates and their current conservation status.

It has been a great pleasure serving as editor of this volume. I thank all contributing authors for their effort and participation.

> **Ramón Eduardo Rebolledo Ranz** Universidad de La Frontera Casilla, Temuco, Chile

### **Chapter 1**
