order group names -Reply

[Denis Brothers]

PLEASE, do not use the first and long-forgotten spelling.  Since the Code
does not cover order-group names there is no compulsion to apply strict
priority.  In any case, even if the Code were to cover them, a very good
case could be made for their suppression in cases such as this because of
their detrimental effects on stability.  The main purpose of nomenclature is
to promote unambiguous and stable names, so don't destroy that for
pedantic reasons.  I suggest that you use whatever name appears to have
greatest currency in contemporary general textbooks of entomology, in this
case probably Raphidioptera (as in Insects of Australia, 2nd ed.).
Denis J. Brothers (Prof.)                  brothers at zoology.unp.ac.za
Department of Zoology & Entomology, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg
Private Bag X01 Scottsville                tel: +27 (0)331-260 5106
3209 SOUTH AFRICA                          fax: +27 (0)331-260 5105