  The pseudo-SU(3) model has been extensively used to study normal parity bands
in even-even and odd-mass heavy deformed nuclei. The use of a realistic
Hamiltonian that mixes many SU(3) irreps has allowed for a successful
description of energy spectra and electromagnetic transition strengths. While
this model is powerful, there are situations in which the intruder states must
be taken into account explicitly. The quasi-SU(3) symmetry is expected to
complement the model, allowing for a description of nucleons occupying normal
and intruder parity orbitals using a unified formalism.
