Names of Moth and Ant Species , Changed Following Review
of ‘Offensive’ Insect Names.
Following a review of "inappropriate or
offensive terms," scientists will change
the names of two insect species.
The “gypsy moth” and “gypsy ant” have
been removed from the Common Names
of Insects and Related Organisms List.
The Entomological Society of America (ESA), who oversees the list, said the change is part of an effort to re-evaluate “problematic” terminology.
It’s an ethnic slur to begin with
that’s been rejected by the
Romani people a long time ago, Michelle Smith, ESA president, via Independent.
Second, nobody wants
to be associated with
a harmful invasive pest, Michelle Smith, ESA president, via Independent.
'The Independent' reports that this is the
first time the ESA has changed a name
because it is considered offensive.
Previously, the organization has only changed names that were not scientifically accurate.
The ESA has asked the public to help come up with new names that do not “perpetuate negative ethnic or racial stereotypes.”.
The purpose of common names
is to make communication easier
between scientists and the
public audiences they serve, Michelle Smith, ESA president, via Independent.
By and large, ESA’s list of recognized
insect common names succeeds
in this regard, but names that are
unwelcoming to marginalized
communities run directly
counter to that goal, Michelle Smith, ESA president, via Independent