What, if anything, are species? PDF

This book is an extended argument for abandoning the various single concepts and the "species" rank. The author proposes that the rank of "species" be replaced by a pluralistic view. In such taxonomy, the smallest identifiable lineages would be used within various divergent phylogenies in a context dependent manner. In such a view, "species" represents different sorts of things depending on the organism/lineage being considered. In practice, this is what is already done although it is not formally recognized.

Key selling Features:

•Proposes the replacement of restrictive species concepts with a pluralistic view

•Suggests abandoning the formal taxonomic rank of "species"

•Considers zoological, botanical and microbiological aspects of the species level

•Deals with practical issues such as conservation, inventories and field guides

Author: Brent D. Mishler