Well said.  I love your example.  Please keep the common names.
 
To me one of the main features of Conch-L is communication.  Communication
is only successful if understood by those reading the messages.  Therefore,
common names (where possibvle) and scientific names would allow
communications to be understood by all those on Conch-L not just a select
group.
 
Carol Lowe, Toronto
"If you can't control the wind ..... adjust your sails"
 
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> From: Irene Longley <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Regarding Common Names
> Date: April 30, 1998 11:09 AM
>
> It seems the majority of Conch=L'ers feel that the scientific name should
> be used, not the common name such as "wentletrap."
>
> Maybe this should be the case.  If so, everyone---look out your window
and
> see the   Turdus migratorius,  the Eudocimus albus (if you are in
Florida),
> and the Casmerodius albus.  This would make life interesting.
>
> To not use the common names would take away the FUN included with shell
> collecting.  Try to teach your 14 grandchildren the scientific names
only,
> as you are walking on the beach.
>
> In case you do not know, the BIRDS that I named are in order--Robin,
White
> Ibis, and the Common Egret.
>
> I vote to keep the common names, but as I catalogue my shells I will also
> learn the scientific names---Rome was not built in a Day.
>
>                 Irene