neotype

biology

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July 1, 2026

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A neotype in biology is a type specimen selected after a species has been described, serving as a replacement for a lost or destroyed original type specimen. This designation is crucial for maintaining taxonomic stability when the initial reference material is no longer available.1

In contrast, a holotype is the single specimen originally designated by the author when establishing a species or taxon. If a holotype is lost or destroyed, a neotype is then chosen to preserve the scientific name's reference. Another related term is neallotype, which refers to a type specimen of the opposite sex to the holotype, collected and described later.213

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taxonomy
Verification and validation by type specimens
…is frequently the case, a neotype is selected and so designated by someone who subsequently revises the taxon, and the neotype occupies a position equivalent to that of the holotype. The first type validly designated has priority over all other type specimens. Paratypes are specimens used, along with the holotype,…
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…is frequently the case, a neotype is selected and so designated by someone who subsequently revises the taxon, and the neotype occupies a position equivalent to that of the holotype. The first type validly designated has priority over all other type specimens. Paratypes are specimens used, along with the holotype,…
Read More