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University of California Press

About the Book

This guide synthesizes the most current information available on the pests and environmental conditions that can damage California’s conifers, the vast majority of native trees in the state. Authoritative and easy-to-use, it is an essential reference for biologists, arborists, ecologists, foresters and everyone who needs up-to-date information on conifer pests in one convenient manual.

o Species accounts cover life cycles, habits, distribution, and significance of each pest and discuss valuable options for reducing or avoiding damage

o 111 clear color photographs show damage caused by 80 insects, diseases, fungi, parasitic plants, animals, and other destructive agents

o The only guide to include information on environmental factors such as air pollution, salt, and frost as well as biological agents

o Appendices list pests and diseases by tree species and by part of the tree affected

About the Author

David L. Wood is Professor of the Graduate School and Professor Emeritus of Entomology at the University of California, Berkeley. Thomas W. Koerber is retired research entomologist at the Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, and currently Consulting Entomologist, Entomological Services Co., Berkeley, California. Robert F. Scharpf is Retired Research Plant Pathologist, Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service. Andrew J. Storer is Assistant Professor of Forest Insect Ecology in the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Technological University.

Reviews

“This book will be a valuable tool for researchers and forest managers alike, as well as students. For entomologists, the sections on disease and damage from vertebrates will provide useful information in areas less familiar to them. Although the book is a paperback, the binding is sewn and features a sturdy plasticized cover that should allow the guide to last well in the field.”
Pan-Pacific Entomologist
"This book provides an important compilation of information on major pathogens, insects, and other pests of conifers. Because conifers are of tremendous ecological and economic importance in California, this book will fill a unique niche."—Dave M. Rizzo, University of California, Davis

"I applaud the authors for the effort involved in assembling this book. The combination of insect and disease information has important reference and diagnostic value."—Timothy D. Paine, co-editor of Mechanisms and Deployment of Resistance in Trees to Insects