Print a copy of this handout that suggests certain kinds of data that a species description should contain.

We want you to select a description of a new species to use in a discussion of how species are actually named, and how practice compares to theory. You may choose either a living species or a fossil species. Except where noted below, journals from which your selection can be made are located in the East Stacks of Collier Library and include the following:

1. Veliger (a journal devoted to molluscs -- many good examples; located in the library stacks)
2. Journal of Paleontology (paleontologic species only; located in the library stacks)
3. Paleontology (British counterpart to #2 -- fossil species only; located in the library stacks)

For numerous species descriptions from a variety of groups, try the following:

4. Journal of Protozoology (devoted to single-celled animals; located in the library stacks)
5. Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington (copies at the reserve desk in Collier)
6. Invertebrate Biology (devoted to all aspects of invertebrate biology; located in the library stacks and available online)

Make two photocopies of your species description and bring them to class. You will turn one in to receive credit for the assignment. We will compile a synthesis of your findings. Come prepared to relate the following information about your species:

1) What defines this species?
2) What is its geographic and stratigraphic range?
3) Is there any mention of its evolutionary origin?
4) What is (was) the size of its population?
5) What reproductive criteria have been used to define the species?
6) Attack or defend the validity of the species.

NOTE: To avoid duplication, list the article title, journal name and volume number you have chosen on the list at the reserve desk in Collier Library.