I just had a very quick look through these forums after a long absence, actually because I caught sight of a new ssp. of Chondropython.

What I have just spent the best part of the afternoon has astounded me. I think my first question has to be "is R.Hoser for real?" The "paper" on python taxonomy has left be baffled. This is actually published? All this drivvle about DNA analysis...or lack thereof....would anyone put their names to this?? Has ANYONE accepted any of this work? I must admit I found the tracyae scrub etymology a little crass but this hardly scrapes the surface when we take a look at the honours to the Hoser family!

I am honestly lost for words. New species, ssp., genera.....often on no more than size and colour? I had a dilemma with a gecko I found in the Colombian Amazon several years back, that I was certain was a new species. Time went on, work load increased and it has fallen to the backburner somewhat. However, having just read this paper I think I might spend half an hour writing a paper (uh-hum) to describe it. I mean it looks like a similar species from Southeastern Peru / Boloivia but it's not in it's known distribution range and it's a slighlty different colour, so it must be a new species right?....And I've done some DNA analysis (OK, I haven't but what the hell) that proves it's different!

Anyway, I think if anything it's best to take these things with a pinch of salt. However, I appreciate the concerns of Wuster et al. who must have grave fears that these names actually enter common usage!

Time for a cup of tea and some meditation!

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