Title: The importance of botanical nomenclature and synonymy in taxonomy and biodiversity
Abstract: Nomenclature of organisms provides a means of communication and is an unambiguous reference system about the elements that constitute biodiversity. The nomenclature of plants is governed by the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature that, in principle, aims at having one correct name for a taxon on the basis of priority of publication. The application of the rules of the Code and taxonomic studies involving change of circumscription of taxon result in nomenclature changes and synonyms. More number ofsynonyms for a taxon reflects only the more confused state it was/is. Yet the rules of nomenclature, notably the principle of priority, cannot be ignored to prevent any confusion in botanical studies. Literature studies and synonyms are imperative and essential elements of taxonomic research. The stability of nomenclature can be possible in future only when 'authoritative lists' of accepted names are prepared and made widely available by an internationally recognized body. Till then, the principle of priority and synonyms in taxonomic publications cannot be relegated to a secondary level, particularly by taxonomic researchers. The ignorance or careless attitude to nomenclature issues by taxonomists themselves does more harm to the subject than non-taxonomists can cause.
Publication Year: 2004
Publication Date: 2004-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 8
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