Common Names update

[Mark Walker]

Robert wrote the following:

<snipped beetle part, though I know he is quite fond of them>

> 3.      I think most people want to find something new and spend too much
> time describing very small differences in a population.

I've been quiet - primarily because I don't particularly have anything to
say (huh?), but also because the locations I've been sent to most recently
are still enjoying occasional frosts.

This subject is one of those that I have not developed a strong opinion
about, but one which I ponder frequently.  Here's my take:

A)  Though it isn't the primary driving force behind my passion, I would, of
course, like to find something new.  It would undoubtedly give me a strong
case of the warm fuzzies.

B)  I do in fact find something new every time I get into the field.  New
for me, at least, and probably a lot more worthy of formal description than
I consider.  Sometimes it's just the way the sunlight breaks through the
clouds, or the way an alpine lake reflects snowcapped peaks.  The warm
fuzzies always follow.

C)  Robert (and others) is probably right - too much time is likely spent on
contriving subtle (or even invisible) differences, though I suspect the
motives are as sincere as they are subjective.

D)  I can appreciate why those who are observing this from a distance are
able to recognize the many holes that might get subjectively overlooked, but
I also appreciate the value that comes from closely monitoring local
populations.  I tend to get to sample habitat diversity, and can therefore
enjoy interacting with hundreds and hundreds of different species over short
periods of time.  But interestingly enough, every time I get into the field
I am observing very local populations that often thrive in ecosystems that
are measured by just a few acres.  I've had some colleagues express friendly
envy when I post my adventures, but I have to say that I am also envious of
those out there who get the chance to spend extended periods of time in
single habitats over all months of the year.  I cannot do that in my present
situation.  

One of my close friends in California cannot travel far from home because he
is the primary care giver to his invalid mother.  Instead, he gets to sample
a very small mountain area that is incredibly rich in lepidopteron
diversity.  As a result, he has become an absolute expert on the butterfly
and moth ecology (and I've urged him to publish) of this specific area.  He
is, I assume, strongly motivated by the possibility of finding something new
- and has in fact done so many times (though it may not turn out to be at
the species level).

Who can properly quantify the potential value of such dedication?

Butterfly net:  $15
Gasoline: $23
Cold Beverages: $4.50
Spreading Board: $22
Finding the unexpected while following the urge to "get among 'em":
Priceless 

Mark Walker
In Cambridge, MA

 
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