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Rules have reasons: response to Greay et al. (2019)
1Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos (CIBIO), InBIO Laboratório Associado, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, 4485-661, Vairão, Portugal. james@cibio.up.pt.
Parasites & Vectors
|November 12, 2020
Summary
New Apicomplexa parasite descriptions by Greay et al. are invalid due to non-compliance with International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) rules. Molecular data alone, when properly cited, can satisfy ICZN species description requirements.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Zoological Nomenclature
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Greay et al. (2018) described new Apicomplexa species from companion animals in Australia.
- Harris (2019) raised concerns regarding the compliance of these descriptions with International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) rules.
Discussion:
- Greay et al. (2019) misrepresented Harris's (2019) argument, incorrectly stating that molecular characters alone were deemed insufficient for species validation.
- The ICZN has specific requirements for species descriptions to ensure scientific rigor and clarity.
- This commentary clarifies the valid use of molecular data in satisfying ICZN Article 13.1.1.
Key Insights:
- The species descriptions provided by Greay et al. (2018) do not meet the established standards of the ICZN.
- Misinterpretation of ICZN guidelines regarding molecular data can lead to invalid species descriptions.
- Adherence to ICZN rules is crucial for the accurate classification and communication of new species.
Outlook:
- Ensuring accurate and compliant species descriptions is vital for the field of parasitology.
- Future research should prioritize adherence to ICZN guidelines when describing new taxa, especially when utilizing molecular data.
- Clear communication and understanding of nomenclature rules are essential for scientific progress in taxonomy.
