Linnaeus in the information age

摘要: As we celebrate the visionary genius of Carl Linnaeus, it is time to analyse how professional taxonomy interfaces with rest biology and beyond. Where next for Linnaeus's heirs, asks H. C. J. Godfray? The 300th anniversary birth Linnaeus being celebrated in 2007. This week's Nature joins fun. Highlights include a look at current state phylogenomics, politics Endangered Species Act an assessment role amateur taxonomists (from page 246). Two Commentary pieces (pages 259 & 261) discuss problems keeping Linnaean taxonomic legacy on track despite rapid developments elsewhere life sciences challenges way new species names are communicated. Staffan Muller-Wille (page 268) explains risque concepts laid out Systema Naturae may have contributed popularity as hobby. And reminder that writ still runs world biological research, strong theme can be detected papers pages 279 312. And, if you hard enough, perhaps. Cover art by Jovan Djordjevic after Jean Haagen's copy Kraft's 1774 portrait, permission Linnean Society London.