First off, I can't believe I'm getting dragged in to this thread.. Self inflicted I might add.. lol
Ok, you can't play any other bass in a Symphony Orchestra other than the bowed Double bass, with some pizz when indicated.
For some parts of the music business or most actually, it is one or the other type bass as it fits. Like wearing a bathing suit or dress suit? You can't dive in a pool with a suit and tie and you can't play an Orchestra concert in the bass section (or any other section) wearing a bathing suit!