Is auctioning taxonomic names of species a good idea?

[DavidBrown]

A rain forest conservation group is auctioning off the right to name several newly discovered species from South America. The funds will go towards purchasing and protecting forest habitat.

Scientists are debating whether this is a good idea or not. What do you think about this?


Want to Name a New Frog? A Whiskered Mouse? An Orchid? Be the Highest Bidder

 

[birdsandbats]

I honestly think it's a great idea. Sure, we might end up with some weird names, but as long as the funds go toward saving the species who cares what it's called? We don't want another species to become extinct!

Now, I would quite like that caecillian to be named zoochatensis so the site gets a real mascot.

 

[Daktari JG]

Its an outstanding idea.

 

[lintworm]

I honestly think it's a great idea. Sure, we might end up with some weird names, but as long as the funds go toward saving the species who cares what it's called? We don't want another species to become extinct!

Now, I would quite like that caecillian to be named zoochatensis so the site gets a real mascot.

The problem is that you will probably need about 150000 Usd, which means 300 zoochatterd pledging 50 usd each. I find it a very entertaining idea, but finding that money would be a challenge.