Use versus priority in zoological nomenclature: a solution for an old problem

Abstract

Overlooked senior synonyms often threaten currently used names, and their reintroduction under the Principle of Priority can cause confusion. Familiar names are displaced, and expensive monographs can be made less useful despite having an unchallenged taxonomy. To halt this gradual erosion, the nomenclature in certain works might be formally 'Protected' by the Commission from application of the Principle of Priority. In taxonomic groups so covered, the onus for making formal nomenclatural submissions would fall on those wishing to upset established usage rather than, as at present, on those defending it. Several other advantages of the proposal are discussed.