Codes of biological nomenclature were established in order to assure the stability of names and facilitate accurate communication among biologists. Unfortunately these codes were promulgated before biologists became aware of the threats to biodiversity and the need for conservation. The names that have been fixed on rare and endangered species are often names that are particularly repugnant to the local people who are in the best position to either conserve or destroy these species. This talk proposes that the codes of biological nomenclature be rethought in light of the current conservation crisis.
Glenn Adelson
Adjunct Professor of Biological Sciences