CITESwoodID

The ability to identify CITES-protected wood species is of prime importance in the implementation and enforcement of the CITES controls. A valuable new support for computer-aided wood identification based on macroscopic features is provided by the development of App versions of the database CITESwoodID. The database and application software for mobile systems contain descriptions and an interactive identification system for 53 trade relevant CITES-listed timbers (e.g., ebony, mahogany, rosewood) known for their use as lumber and downstream processing into products. In addition, the database covers 32 traded timbers which can be mistaken for CITES taxa due to a very similar appearance and/or structural pattern. The database and App are designed primarily for all institutions and individuals involved in controlling the import and export of wood and wood products which are regulated by CITES. It is also of use to educational facilities active in teaching wood anatomy and wood identification.