Paratype

Definition

A specimen other than the holotype which is used in the original description of a species and helps to illustrate the range of variation within the species.

Etymology

From Greek 'para-', meaning 'beside' or 'near', and 'typos', meaning 'type' or 'model'.

Example

In the description of the new butterfly species, the researchers designated one specimen as the holotype and several others as paratypes to represent the variation found in the species.

Related Terms

• Holotype
• Syntype
• Lectotype
• Neotype

Usage Notes

Paratypes are important for taxonomic clarity as they provide additional context beyond the holotype, showcasing different morphological traits within the same species.