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Type: Editorial
Published: 2020-01-31
Page range: 4–8
Abstract views: 491
PDF downloaded: 323

A taxonomic renaissance in three acts

State University of New York college of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States;
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QUENTIN WHEELER

 

Senior Fellow for Biodiversity Studies, State University of New York

President, College of Enviornmental Science and Forestry (retired)

taxonomy biodiversity biomimicry

Abstract

Rapid species extinction means that a limited time exists in which to revitalize taxonomy and explore the diversity of species on earth.  Three actions have the potential to ignite a taxonomic renaissance:  (1) clarify what taxonomy is, emphasizing its theoretical advances and status as a rigorous, independent, fundamental science; (2) give taxonomists a mandate to organize and complete an inventory of earth species and the resources to modernize research and collections infrastructure; and (3) collaborate with information scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to inspire the creation of a sustainable future through biomimicry.

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