More Protection for Tropical Woods
CITES, the international organization that regulates trade on endangered species, recently expanded its protection of tropical woods often used in instrument making.

For some time, Brazilian rosewood -- once the queen woods for making the backs and sides of guitars -- has been listed as an "Appendix I" item by CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.  Such a listing has prohibited all commercial trade.

Now Latin American mahogany, another popular wood -- perhaps having become TOO popular -- has been added to Appendix II, which requires exporting countries to ensure sustainability and proper permitting.

For a complete listing of all Appendix I and II items, brush up on your Latin names and visit the CITES site.