Taxonomy
J
Junior Synonym
Quick Definition
A scientific name that was validly published after the currently accepted name for the same species; it is suppressed under the principle of priority.
📖 Full Definition
When two names are applied to the same taxon, the later-published name is called a junior synonym. Under the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, the principle of priority dictates that the earliest validly published name takes precedence. The junior synonym must be suppressed in favour of the senior synonym (the earlier name). Many fish species have accumulated dozens of junior synonyms as they were repeatedly described by different workers in different regions.
💡 Examples & Context
Mahi mahi was originally described as Coryphaena hippurus (Linnaeus 1758); names such as Coryphaena fasciolata, C. dolfyn, and C. suerii were all later described for the same fish and are junior synonyms.