Glossary

nominal taxon

A nomenclatural concept denoted by an available name used in an original description, and based, actually or potentially, upon its name-bearing type but having no defined taxonomic boundaries.

Often used when the precise definition of a species or genus is unclear, such as when a name may refer to more than one taxon and is therefore in need of clarification.

Used in 33 species profiles

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Related terms

description
Used in ichthyology in reference to a written description of a new species, usually in the form of a scientifically-published paper though many have been also appeared in aquarium literature, particularly in the late twentieth century. Also referred to as 'type description' or 'original description'.
holotype
The single specimen designated as the name-bearing type of a nominal species or subspecies.
lectotype
In zoological nomenclature, a syntype specimen selected as the name-bearing type of a nominal taxon in the absence of a designated holotype.
name-bearing type
In zoological nomenclature, the biological type (normally either a genus, species, or specimen) that determines how a name is applied.
nomenclature
Branch of taxonomy concerned with the application of scientific names to taxa, based on a particular classification scheme and in accordance with agreed international rules and conventions.
original description
The description of a nominal taxon when it is established.
taxon
A taxonomic group or category of any rank, such as a species, genus family, or class.
taxonomic
Of or relating to taxonomy.
type
Can be used to refer to any taxonomic group, the characteristics of which are used for defining related, higher or lower ranking groups. For example, the type of a nominal species is a specimen (type specimen), the type of a nominal genus is the nominal species (type species), and the type of a nominal family is the nominal genus (type genus).
type series
Series of specimens which either constitutes the name-bearing type of a nominal species or subspecies, or from which the name-bearing type has been or may be designated

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