ABSTRACT
A paradox is a statement that appears contradictory or unsupported by common sense but is nevertheless true. The common sense underlying most current management actions related to the American Endangered Species Act is (1) that preserving habitat for listed species is critical, and (2) that the best or only way to preserve habitat is to preserve the ecosystem(s) on which the species depend. It may seem contradictory to say that altering the habitat is essential to its long term maintenance. However, it seems that alteration may be exactly what is indicated by at least some assessments of relative risks. In such cases, managers must be prepared to accept the paradox and act. (Mealey and Thomas, 2002)
