Taxonomy: use the Red List as a registry
In: Nature: International Weekly Journal of Science. Nature Publishing Group: London. ISSN 0028-0836; e-ISSN 1476-4687, meer
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| Abstract |
The Red List is maintained by the IUCN's specialist groups, which include taxonomists. Although a species' taxonomic status is crucial to its conservation status and the data on populations and threats are assessed by strict criteria, no guidelines for species circumscription exist. By formalizing the updating and consistency of its list, the IUCN could provide a certified registry of the life worth conserving.More species could be 'pre-listed' as extant, valid and potentially under threat using the Red List's Not Evaluated status. This would stimulate conservation thinking in taxonomy and promote formation of specialist groups. Because Red List maintenance relies on volunteer input, new funding mechanisms would be needed to expand its structure. |
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