Collectors can add a new dimension to their hobby by learning more about the species concerned and publishing their own findings.
In my article ‘Collecting Olive Shells’ I have suggested that distribution data and information about species variability in any location should be published somewhere – so that others can access it.
Distribution Data
Amateur collectors are in an ideal position to amass data about the distribution of the species that interest them. In a sense any data about marine mollusc distribution is useful, but those who specialise in a particular group (be it the olives, cones, cowries, or whatever) are likely to have a more complete picture. Best of all is the information that comes from individuals who specialise in a single (or few) species.
Knowing the current range of any particular species gives a ‘base-line’ against which future changes can be measured. The effects of habitat loss, pollution and global warming will have something to be measured against.
Variability Data
For shells which show a lot of individual variation within the species it is very useful to know which forms are found where. This sort of data can help untangle the thorny problem of ‘what is each variety adapted to’, and can even help elucidate some of the tantalising questions about speciation. In the absence of detailed genetic information the way in which populations vary across their range can be very instructive.
Where to Publish
I have started a discussion where people who have already published their data, or are about to do so, can help those who are considering it.
