Elements and Performance Criteria
- Observe the plant specimen
- Immediate recognition of overall features is used to remember the plant name and inform client.
- Information retrieved from memory is recorded for common and botanical names.
- Data is recorded in a format allowing further process of observation of features.
- Specimens yet to be identified fully continue through the process of identification.
- Inspect plant morphological features
- Visual inspection of the form and structures of the specimen is described in botanical terms.
- Qualitative and quantitative data are recorded in a format listing the main observable features.
- Photographs of the main features are taken and stored in a database for future reference.
- All relevant available senses are used to assist in the observation procedure.
- Useful identifying attributes of the leaf, flower, vegetative growth, fruiting body, stem, bark and habit are recorded.
- Identity of specimen is recorded where known at this point.
- Unknown specimen is analysed for plant group or family characteristics from available sources of knowledge and information gained is recorded.
- Determine statusof health
- Plant specimen is inspected for health and general condition.
- Observations are used to identify any diseases, pests or deficiencies indicative of plant groups.
- Discussion and research are used to determine the current location, environmental influences and distribution of the specimen where known.
- Relevant data are recorded and evaluated and identification recorded where possible and the client or organisation informed of the result.
- Identify the specimen
- Database is constructed of plants and their characteristics using digital methods, collection of physical specimens and associated data or illustrations of specimens and key features.
- Research, reference material, field guides and taxonomic keys are used to define a closer identification by comparison of generic characteristics and all results of the process are recorded.
- Photographs or illustrations or physical specimens are inspected and compared to similar specimens in the reference material and database.
- Unknown specimens are analysed for specific characteristics and identified to species and cultivar level where possible and named.
- Report on the process results
- Compile the information data observed for the plants morphological features throughout the process.
- Label all the information data recorded and highlight key identifying features observed in the process.
- Document a report of the identification process and list the compiled data.
- The client or organisation is informed of the results of the identification process.