Ecology versus taxonomy: Is there a middle ground?

Abstract

In many long-term, intensive experimental and field studies there often arises a need to trade off taxonomic resolution for ecological answers. Compounding this problem is a taxonomic impediment, the lack of experienced taxonomists capable of processing large numbers of samples to species resolution, especially in groups such as the Rotifera. This paper has two aims: (1) To investigate the level of taxonomic resolution required to determine the impact of a disturbance, in the form of a flood event; (2) to compare the impact of different taxonomic resolutions in assessing biodiversity. Results suggest both family and generic resolution can be used to determine the impact of a flood event and that these levels have some applicability to biodiversity studies. Relatively inexperienced taxonomists who can identify the common rotifers to genetic level, can be relied upon to detect disturbance to community structure but their data become unreliable when assessing biodiversity.