SYNTYPE Meaning and
Definition
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A syntype is a concept used in the field of taxonomy to refer to one of several specimens that were simultaneously designated as the type specimen for a particular taxon. In taxonomy, a type specimen is a particular specimen that acts as a reference point for the definition and naming of a species or higher taxonomic group. It serves as the ultimate point of comparison for other individuals belonging to the same taxon.
When more than one specimen is used as a type, each individual specimen is referred to as a syntype. Syntypes can be specimens from various locations, describing the variation present within a particular taxon. They are typically designated when there is uncertainty or ambiguity regarding the variation or the precise boundaries of the taxon under consideration.
Syntypes are regarded as equal in rank and importance and are collectively responsible for representing the taxon they were designated for. In situations where more than one syntype exists, they must all be cited in subsequent scientific literature to ensure transparency and accuracy in taxonomic descriptions and identifications.
It is important to note that the concept of a syntype is distinct from that of a holotype, which is a single specimen designated as the primary type specimen for a taxon. The notion of syntype was introduced to accommodate the complexities of certain taxonomic groups with high variability or uncertainty in defining individual specimens as holotypes.
Etymology of SYNTYPE
The word "syntype" originates from the combination of two Greek words: "syn" meaning "together" or "with", and "typos" meaning "impression" or "model".
In the context of taxonomy, a syntype refers to one of two or more specimens used to describe a new species when no holotype was designated. It represents one of the original specimens upon which the species description is based. The term was introduced by the British zoologist William Henry Flower in the late 19th century. The use of syntypes allows for a clearer understanding of the morphological variation within a species and enables future researchers to compare their findings with the original description.
