Brief descriptions of the orders follow. Order names are usually derived from a Greek or Latin word that describes the group. Most of the orders can be separated based on differences in wing morphology, thus learning the origin of the order name is very instructive and helpful in learning about the insects belonging to that order. Name derivations are provided in parentheses next to the order name. Common name of the order is also provided as it often reveals additional information about the biology or morphology of the group.

Note: Line drawings of several insects from each order are provided as examples of the order. All measurements given in this section are based on average body length (front of head to end of abdomen) of the species shown with the exception of the Lepidoptera (where measurements indicate average length of the forewing). Color photographs of representative insects in their adult form are provided at the end of this book and also are available via the Internet. Photos make for excellent review or study, and while they may not be as valuable as real specimens, they make for a handy reference collection or series for insect judging contests.

Collembola
Thysanura
Ephemeroptera
Odonata
Dictyoptera
Orthoptera
Dermaptera
Isoptera
Plecoptera
Psocoptera
Mallophaga
Anoplura
Thysanoptera
Hemiptera
Homoptera
Neuroptera
Megaloptera
Coleoptera
Mecoptera
Trichoptera
Lepidoptera
Diptera
Siphonaptera
Hymenoptera