RE: Species [ was: Re: Hadrosaur nomenclature]

["R. Irmis" <rbi@dana.ucc.nau.edu>]

<<I am unclear as to what you mean by an "ontological diagnosis." For that
matter, I am unsure that diagnosis of any kind is the best way to recognize
species. A diagnosis would be, of course, a fundamental part of referring
specimens to a species, and detailed morphological comparison usually plays
a
major role in the recognition of species. But that's a debate for another
day
(and, I must admit, it is beyond my ability to support at this time).>>

This is what happens when you write while your not fully awake! :)  I meant
"osteological diagnosis."  I think we both agree that something needs to be
done about diagnosing species in paleontology.  So, instead of arguing the
fine points, how can we remedy the situation  (whether or not we get rid of
genus level nomenclature)?

Regards,
Randall Irmis