"Douglas-fir Cone and Seed Insect Diagnostic System" was designed to enable researchers, orchard managers and technicians, seed dealers, and other field workers to accurately identify damaging insects associated with Douglas-fir cones and seeds. The system assumes the user has a basic understanding of Internet usage, conifer cones and seeds, and is in the process of evaluating a developing or matured cone crop. It works by prompting the user to choose answers to a series of questions starting from general (What stage is the crop at?) to increasingly specific (reasonably easy to observe characteristics of damage and/or insects in/on cones). After the final question is answered a conclusion screen is reached which supplies an identification of the insect(s) you may be dealing with and more detail to help confirm the identification. Double clicking on photos in conclusion screens will enlarge them to full screen size. Conclusion screens are linked to a general BC Ministry of Forests cone and seed insect web site, still under development by Seed Pest Management, which will (when completed) provide up-to-date details on biology, current research, and management of the identified insects.
This site contains information on various insects and other organisms affecting conifer seed production in B.C. and valuable tips on how to manage these beasts. Click the "ABOUT" button on the opening page for instructions on how to use the site. Assembled under the watchful eye of Dr. Robb Bennett, Seed Pest Management Officer, B.C. Ministry of Forests, 2000.
