I thought Marien's comment was intended to be sarcastic?

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dennis sargent" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2010 9:28 PM
Subject: Re: [CONCH-L] Are cowries getting smaller?


> Dear Marien,
>
> There have been a few horror stories where greedy collectors have depleted
> local populations. These have generally been individuals who were
> concerned
> about the profit and not the animals. Most serious students of malacology
> are aware of being responsible and limiting live collection of specimens.
> I
> am one of those who have explored malacology as an unpaid passion for over
> forty years. One of the most prolific contributors on Conchlist, and one
> of
> our most respected malacologists is a retired medical doctor, who like me
> has had a life long passion for this science.
>
> I am disturbed by your comment about politicians and legislators being
> given
> justification to ban "amateur malacological research". My amateur research
> has continued for several decades and has resulted in 48 new taxa. I am
> currently working on the description of five new species of Oliva. Most of
> these have been found in museums and old collections. I do collect live
> specimens, but this is rare. When I collect I take only what is needed,
> generally less than 5 or 10 specimens. Depending upon the situation, I may
> examine, photograph and release other specimens that are not needed.
>
> Most recently, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is in the process of
> attempting to apply the Lacey act to old ladies bringing in seashells in
> their luggage from other countries. This would create felons out of
> unknowing individuals whose only act is to appreciate the works of nature.
> Most of these countries have their own wildlife regulations and belong to
> CITIES. They regulate what can be sold and exported and conduct baggage
> checks at departure points. Unfortunately, people with your mindset won't
> be
> happy until all animals are in a zoo or museum and no one can touch them.
> When this day comes we will be a scientifically illiterate nation where
> young generations will be barred from having the experience and/or the
> motivation to study for a career in the biological sciences.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Dennis M. Sargent, Retired Fire Chief, and possibly not entirely an
> amateur
> malacologist, as we have sold a few books.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
[log in to unmask] - a forum for informal discussions on molluscs
To leave this list, click on the following web link:
http://listserv.uga.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=conch-l&A=1
Type your email address and name in the appropriate box and
click leave the list.
----------------------------------------------------------------------