Allotypes

[Murray Fletcher]

On Mon, 26 Feb 1996, Neal Evenhuis wrote:

> On Tue, 27 Feb 1996, Steve Shattuck wrote:
>
> > Yes, yes, I know, I know.  Syntypes can't become holotypes.
>
> Ah yes, but due to the elegant magic of the ICZN Zoological Code (Art.
> 74b), holotypes CAN become lectotypes!

Not exactly. Art. 74b states that a specimen designated holotype by a
subsequent author on the basis of assumed monotypy but subsequently shown to
have been part of a syntype series (usually of two) will be designated
lectotype instead. In fact the assumed "holotype" status is invalidated
by the discovery of further syntypes. A holotype cannot become a lectotype
but a specimen incorrectly assumed to be a holotype can become a lectotype.

>
> Doncha love it?

Yes, irrelevant pedantry is fun!

Murray



>
>
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 Murray J. Fletcher
 NSW Agriculture
 PMB 10 Rydalmere 2116
 NSW Australia
 fletchm at agric.nsw.gov.au

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