Meet the Entomologist: Ja'Von Latimore

J

a'Von Latimore is an entomologist and champion of entomophagy (eating of insects).

She was kind enough to share some of her knowledge with me about her background in Entomology (the branch of zoology concerned with the study of insects). She has a Bachelor's in Entomology from Iowa State University.

GEC: Tell us about what you do!

JL: I promote all things insects, with a focus on edible insects.

GEC: Was there a specific moment that drew you to insects?

JL: Had to have been 5 or 6 when I squished my sisters ladybug. One of those lightbulb moments. Insects have been cool since then.

GEC: What is your favorite insect and why?

JL: Cockroach! They’re so unknown, and widely hated for no reason when less than 7% of the 3,500 species are pests.

GEC: What is your funniest or fondest insect memory?

JL: Holding a giant water bug in my high school biology class, and watching it slowly attempt to pierce me with its sucking mouth piece! The teacher did not prep us very well.

GEC: What is one thing that you wish the general public knew about insects?

JL: Insects are Arthropods, crabs and lobster are arthropods as well, arthropods are animals, so giving insects and insect meat a chance isn’t too far fetched. It starts with positive mentality and education.

GEC: Is there anything else you would like to share?

JL: It’s crucial to understand that the average person is afraid of what they don’t know. Many don’t know anything about insects, or insects as food. It’s our job to start with education. Follow Ja'Von on Facebook and Instagram