Evaluation of a decision support system for crop protection in apple orchards

摘要

A Web Decision Suport System (SSD Manzano) for the diagnosis and control of pests in apple orchards was evaluated from the practical and educational viewpoints. The system was implemented twelve years ago and since has been extensively used as a support tool to take decisions and education training. Basically, the system is built up of three different modules. The first module provides information about the biology of major pathogens, pests and weeds affecting the apple production. The second module is a visual key identification of the main disease symptoms, insect damages and weeds. A final module provides users with control recommendations to help in making management decisions.