Scientific Briefs

Scientific briefs and similar items provide information and make recommendations relevant to study of the fauna. The text of these publications are accessible in electronic form here.

The role of voucher specimens in validating faunistic and ecological research. 2003. 21 pp.
This brief reviews the nature of voucher specimens and sample policies on vouchers in systematic, faunistic and ecological research. The advantages of having vouchers available for subsequent study, and the pitfalls of not designating and depositing vouchers, are discussed using examples from the literature. Recommendations as to best practices in voucher policy are given for funding agencies, agencies that issue research permits, university departments, journal editors and natural history collections.

Label data standards for terrestrial arthropods. 2001. 20 pp.
This brief provides recommendations on how to prepare data labels for collections of terrestrial arthropods. Included are standards for label data (including specific recommendations on how to format information) and standards for label preparation (including guidelines for preparing computer-generated labels and recommendations on paper and printers).

Terrestrial Arthropod Biodiversity Projects - Building a Factual Foundation. 2000. 38 pp. This brief uses results from selected recent studies in Canada to reinforce guidelines for proper studies of arthropod biodiversity. Necessary components of such studies are tabulated for ready reference, and costs are also given explicitly.

Information on Biodiversity funding: Funding sources for graduate students in arthropod biodiversity This document provides information on some of the available funding sources for graduate study and research in biodiversity, with special reference to terrestrial arthropods. Advice on preparing applications is also given. Includes specific sources of funding.

The advantages of using arthropods in ecosystem management. 1996. 11 pp. This brief is intended primarily to inform responsible officials in concerned agencies about the wide value of studies of arthropods for characterizing, understanding and managing natural and disturbed systems.

How to assess insect biodiversity without wasting your time. 1996. 20 pp. The diversity and ecological importance of insects makes them very valuable for studies of biodiversity. This brief outlines the steps required for appropriate biodiversity assessments and is intended for individuals who have been called upon to lead or organize studies of insect biodiversity.

Terrestrial Arthropod Biodiversity: Planning a Study and Recommended Sampling Techniques. 1994. 33 pp. This brief offers general guidelines for planning a study of arthropod biodiversity, including attention to long-term planning and especially to available sampling methods.

The Importance of Research Collections of Terrestrial Arthropods. 1991. 16 pp. A brief that addresses the values of research collections and their associated curatorial programs, and points out the inadequate and declining funding for them.

Arthropod Ectoparasites of Vertebrates in Canada. 1991. 11 pp. This brief comments on the nature of the ectoparasite fauna of Canada and recommends how integrated, long-term studies on ectoparasites in Canada can be supported.

Freshwater Springs: A national heritage. 1990. 9 pp. This brief suggests that spring-dwelling organisms can be used to assess groundwater quality and urges that guidelines be drawn up for the protection of springs from industrial, urban and agricultural pressures.

Arctic Invertebrate Biology: Action Required. 1989. 7 pp. The brief recommends ways in which studies of arctic invertebrates, the most common and diverse animals in arctic ecosystems, can be enhanced.

Insects of Canada. 1988. 18 pp. Prepared for delegates to the XVIIIth International Congress of Entomology in Vancouver, B.C., this booklet provides an overview of Canadian habitats and insect faunas, and summarizes information on Canadian entomologists and collections.

Les Insectes du Canada. 1988. 18 p. Préparé à l'intention des délégués au XVIIIe Congrès international d'entomologie à Vancouver, Colombie Britannique, ce livret donne un aperçu des habitats du Canada et de leurs insectes, ainsi qu'un coup d'oeil aux entomologistes canadiens et aux collections canadiennes d'insectes.

Importance of Insects in Environmental Impact Assessment. 1986. 11 pp. A paper showing why insects are particularly suited for use in environmental impact assessment, with examples of their use. [D.M. Rosenberg, H.V. Danks and D.M. Lehmkuhl. Environmental Management 10:773-783]
(not available in electronic form)

Recommendations for the Appraisal of Environmental Disturbance: Some general guidelines and the value and feasibility of insect studies. 1984. 8 pp. A brief considering the development of proper scientific standards for the monitoring and appraisal of environmental disturbance.

Status and Research Needs of Canadian Soil Arthropods. 1982. 5 pp. This brief provides a basis for initiatives and representations that can be made to improve the lack of knowledge and expertise on Canadian soil arthropods.

This page last updated 02/08/2012