Andrew and Emilio,
I was thinking more in terms of quality control.  I know how Ed Petuch manages to publish large numbers of questionable names privately.    Perhaps it is best not to put too strict a screening in place, as the process of determining species is rather subjective, and the 'splitters' may ultimately be proven correct, but I wonder if there is some way that   the bar can be raised, to discourage inadequate work?  I was not trying to impugn any particular country--the problem is ubiquitous.

From: Andrew Grebneff <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: New Harpidae
Date: Tue, 11 Feb 2003 23:59:33 +1300

>I am interested in the process by which an apparent local variety of
>a well known variable species can be published as a new species.
>Was it validly published?    Was the article peer reviewed?  I
>understand the Meditteranean is swimming in synonyms for common
>shells.  Is this tradition of naming varieties supported there?  Are
>Americans considered lumpers by the Italians?  It would be
>interested in hearing support for the species as named.
>Allen Aigen  NYC

Ed Petch has a lot of relatives over there.



Allen Aigen
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