speciesits

Speciesits are researchers and practitioners who study species as both biological units and conceptual constructs within biodiversity science. They examine how species are defined, recognized, and delimited, and they explore how different species concepts relate to practical taxonomy and conservation. Although not widely standardized, the label is used in theoretical and interdisciplinary discussions to highlight a cross-cutting approach to species.

Core concerns for speciesits include evaluating species concepts (biological, morphological, phylogenetic, ecological) and developing methods for species delimitation that integrate multiple data sources. They apply genetics (DNA barcoding and genomics), morphology, ecology, behavior, and geographic information to assess species boundaries. They also study speciation, hybridization, and extinction to understand how species arise and disappear, informing taxonomic revisions.

In practice, speciesits contribute to taxonomy by describing new species, revising circumscriptions, and refining nomenclature. They influence conservation planning by clarifying biodiversity units used in policy and management. Work often occurs in museums, universities, field stations, and conservation organizations, with collaboration across systematics, paleontology, evolutionary biology, and bioinformatics.

The term remains relatively rare and may be conflated with broader debates about species concepts, taxonomy, and conservation. It should not be confused with speciesism, an ethical position regarding the value of different species. See also taxonomy, species concept, species delimitation, integrative taxonomy.