Lesson 3: Practice
Topic 2: Case Study 2: Appropriate Level of Identification
This case study will help you review appropriate levels of identification.
Objective:
- To test your understanding of the level of identification appropriate in different situations.
Although identification to species level is ideal for all organisms found in port interceptions or during surveillance, it is not always practical or possible. However, regulatory decisions are made based on identifications. These identifications should provide the most information possible about the identity of an organism while taking into account time required, lack of scientific knowledge about certain organisms, and uncertainties in systematic placement (taxonomy) of some organisms. Usually it is up to an experienced identifier to determine what level of identification is possible and realistic. Regulatory policymakers should be aware of the limitations and challenges of identification.
Use the resource that follows to learn more about the challenges of identifying pests in entomology and mycology groups.
Now that you have learned about some common identification challenges, answer the following questions.
To continue, select Topic 3 from the Topics menu above or click here.