NEOTYPE Meaning and
Definition
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A neotype is a term used in the field of taxonomy, specifically in relation to the classification of organisms. It refers to a specimen or a representative organism that is designated or selected as the standard reference for a particular species or taxonomic group.
The concept of a neotype arises when the original type specimen (holotype) is lost, destroyed, or cannot be used to accurately represent the species it was initially assigned to. In such cases, a neotype is chosen to replace the original type specimen and serve as the new standard for future identification and description of the species.
The selection of a neotype involves careful consideration and consultation among taxonomists, often with the aim of finding a specimen that closely resembles the original holotype and is representative of the species' characteristics. The chosen neotype is assigned a unique scientific name and detailed characteristics are documented to aid in the identification and study of the species.
The designation of a neotype aims to ensure the stability and consistency of scientific nomenclature, especially when dealing with taxa that were initially described without proper documentation or those that lack available types. It provides researchers and taxonomists with a reliable reference point for the accurate identification and classification of organisms, ultimately contributing to the advancement of biological knowledge and understanding.
Common Misspellings for NEOTYPE
- beotype
- meotype
- jeotype
- heotype
- nwotype
- nsotype
- ndotype
- nrotype
- n4otype
- n3otype
- neitype
- nektype
- neltype
- neptype
- ne0type
- ne9type
- neorype
- neofype
- neogype
- neoyype
Etymology of NEOTYPE
The word "neotype" is derived from two Greek roots: "neo" meaning "new" or "recent", and "typos" meaning "type" or "impression". In scientific terminology, a neotype is a specimen designated as a type specimen when no original type specimen exists or is inadequate for identifying a species. It is used to establish a standard for future reference in taxonomic studies. The term was first coined by the English biologist and paleontologist Harry Johnson in 1899.
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