"the first AOS approved taxonomic authority from Colombia. Just another
wonderful AOS service for orchid growers worldwide, through the generosity
of the taxonomic authorities who share their time and the AOS which
coordinates their efforts."
In what way does AOS "approval" confer any additional credibility on a taxonomist (what exactly is an AOS approved taxonomist)? Does the AOS give grants for taxonomic research? The wording "through the generosity of the taxonomic authorities" implies that they do not. Certainly the AOS is not recognized as an organization qualified to review the merits of taxonomic research (as say the Missouri Botanic Gardens would be), especially now that Lindleyana has become a sporadic addendum to "Orchids".
Don't get me wrong; I am an AOS member, and understand the credibility that the AOS gives to the show I chair through their sanction and the AOS trophy. I also understand and appreciate AOS judging (amused though I am by the inability of the "old guard" judges here to wrap their tongues around Latin names or understand the merit of certain plants). I simply would like to know what such approval means.
_______________________________________________ the OrchidGuide Digest (OGD) [email protected] http://orchidguide.com/mailman/listinfo/orchids_orchidguide.com
