Holotype
noun
A holotype is a single specimen upon which the description and name of a new species is based.
The scientist identified the new species and designated the specimen as the holotype.
Often appears as...
- type specimen
- species reference
Usage tips
Neutral
General
noun
A holotype is a single specimen upon which the description and name of a new species is based.
The scientist identified the new species and designated the specimen as the holotype.
Often appears as...
- type specimen
- species reference
Usage tips
Neutral
General
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Context
In biology, knowing which specimen is the holotype helps in taxonomic clarity.
The holotype ensures that everyone is referring to the same organism in discussions about species.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Misconceptions
Some people confuse holotypes with paratypes or syntypes, which are additional specimens but not the formal reference.
It’s important to note that a holotype is the only specimen that serves as the official reference for the species.
Pro Tip 3/3Importance in Research
The holotype is crucial for future studies and comparisons, as it standardizes the definition.
Researchers rely on holotypes to verify characteristics of the species in question.
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Context
In biology, knowing which specimen is the holotype helps in taxonomic clarity.
The holotype ensures that everyone is referring to the same organism in discussions about species.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Misconceptions
Some people confuse holotypes with paratypes or syntypes, which are additional specimens but not the formal reference.
It’s important to note that a holotype is the only specimen that serves as the official reference for the species.
Pro Tip 3/3Importance in Research
The holotype is crucial for future studies and comparisons, as it standardizes the definition.
Researchers rely on holotypes to verify characteristics of the species in question.
Pro Tip 1/3Understanding Context
In biology, knowing which specimen is the holotype helps in taxonomic clarity.
The holotype ensures that everyone is referring to the same organism in discussions about species.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Misconceptions
Some people confuse holotypes with paratypes or syntypes, which are additional specimens but not the formal reference.
It’s important to note that a holotype is the only specimen that serves as the official reference for the species.
Pro Tip 3/3Importance in Research
The holotype is crucial for future studies and comparisons, as it standardizes the definition.
Researchers rely on holotypes to verify characteristics of the species in question.
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