On the uncertainty beneath the name Oithona similis Claus, 1866 (Copepoda, Cyclopoida)

CEPEDA, G. C.; SABATINI, M.E; SCIOSCIA, C.L; RAMÍREZ, F; VIÑAS, M. D.

ZOOKEYS

PENSOFT PUBLISHERS

Lugar: SOFIA; Año: 2016 vol. 552 p. 1 - 15

1313-2989

Th marine cyclopoid Oithona similis sensu lato Claus, 1866, is considered to be one of the most abundantand ubiquitous copepods in the world. However, its minimal original diagnosis and the unclear connection with its (subjective) senior synonym Oithona helgolandica Claus, 1863, may have caused frequentmisidentifiation of the species. Consequently, it seems possible that several closely related but distinctforms are being named O. similis or O. helgolandica without explicit and accurate discrimination. Herethe current situation concerning the correct assignment of the two species is revised, the morphologicalcharacters commonly used to identify and distinguish each species are summarized, and the nomenclatural implications of indiscriminately using these names in current taxonomic and ecological practice isconsidered. It is not intended to upset a long-accepted name in its accustomed meaning but certainlythe opposite. ?In pursuit of the maximum stability compatible with taxonomic freedom? (InternationalCommission of Zoological Nomenclature), we consider that reassessment of the diagnostic characters ofO. similis sensu stricto cannot be postponed much longer. While a consensus on taxonomy and nomenclatural matters can be attained, we strongly recommend specifially reporting the authority upon whichthe identifiation of either O. similis s.l. or O. helgolandica s.l. has been accomplished.