Taxonomy
H
Holotype
/ /ˈhɒlətʌɪp/ /
Etymology:
From Greek holos (whole) + typos (type, impression)
Quick Definition
The single specimen designated as the name-bearing type of a species when it is first described.
📖 Full Definition
When a new species is described and named, the author must designate a type specimen — the physical specimen to which the scientific name is permanently attached. A holotype is the single specimen (dead preserved or living) designated as the name-bearer by the original author at the time of publication. It is the ultimate objective standard for application of the name. Holotypes are deposited in registered natural history museum collections and are treated with special care. If the original author designated several specimens, those become syntypes; a later selection of one syntype as the name-bearer creates a lectotype.
💡 Examples & Context
The holotype of the giant squid Architeuthis dux is held at the Natural History Museum of Denmark. Many holotypes are old, poorly preserved, and lack the soft tissue or genetic material needed for modern comparisons.