Nomen nudum

Nomen nudum

A nomen nudum (plural: nomina nuda) is a Latin term used in biological nomenclature to refer to a name that has appeared in print but has not been formally published according to the rules of the relevant nomenclatural code. The term translates to "naked name," indicating that the name lacks a formal description or diagnosis that would make it valid under the rules of nomenclature.

Definition

In biological taxonomy, a nomen nudum is a name that is published without an accompanying description or reference to a description, making it invalid under the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) or the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN). Such names are considered unavailable and cannot be used as valid scientific names until they are properly published with a description.

Criteria for a Nomen Nudum

A name is considered a nomen nudum if it meets the following criteria:

1. Lack of Description: The name is published without a description or diagnosis that distinguishes the taxon from other taxa. 2. No Reference to a Description: There is no reference to a previously published description that would validate the name. 3. Non-compliance with Nomenclatural Codes: The name does not comply with the rules set forth by the relevant nomenclatural code, such as the ICZN or ICN.

Consequences of Being a Nomen Nudum

A nomen nudum has no standing in scientific nomenclature. It cannot be used as a valid name for a taxon until it is properly published with a description. If a nomen nudum is later validated by a proper description, it may become a valid name, but until then, it is considered unavailable.

Examples

- Example 1: A researcher publishes a new species name in a journal but fails to provide a description or diagnosis. This name is a nomen nudum until a proper description is published. - Example 2: A name appears in a checklist or catalog without any accompanying description or reference to a description. This name is also a nomen nudum.

Historical Context

The concept of nomen nudum has been recognized since the early days of biological nomenclature. It serves as a safeguard to ensure that names are not used without proper scientific backing, thus maintaining the stability and reliability of taxonomic names.

Also see

- Binomial nomenclature - Taxonomy (biology) - International Code of Zoological Nomenclature - International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants - Synonym (taxonomy)