Diatom taxonomy for paleolimnologists

The present chaotic state of diatom taxonomy presents both significant difficulties and large opportunities for paleolimnologists. Lack of complete and generally available taxonomic treatises and rapid and substantial changes in nomenclature make it necessary for persons using diatom populations to infer environmental conditions to become more deeply and directly involved in diatom systematics, in the broad sense, than is generally realized. Paleolimnologists develop collections that are extremely valuable in addressing classic questions in evolution and biogeography, and should be encouraged to use these resources to advance diatom systematics, either themselves or in collaboration.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]