Integrative taxonomy: ghosts of past, present and future

摘要: Describing species has been a formal, intellectually rich and influential applied basic area of study for many the past 260 years. While formally described eukaryotic diversity still falls short estimated by hundreds thousands species, some recent accounts have suggested growing number taxonomists are within reach describing all extant species. We present case that illustrates, to contrary, ‘taxonomic impediment’ in part attributable derogation taxonomy as scientific discipline: contemporary practice re-interpreted largely an endeavour enumerating argue challenges lie (1) poor understanding taxonomy's epistemology; (2) excessive displacement interest toward ecological or molecular studies; (3) over-interpretation contributions multiple authors species; (4) perspectives strongly influenced well-known taxa. The historical literature on scyphozoans reveal ghosts persist present, but suggest also renaissance enabled integrative is possible (near) future.