Syntype

Definition

One of two or more specimens cited by the original describer when no holotype was designated, collectively forming the basis for the name of a species.

Etymology

From Greek 'syn-', meaning 'together' and 'typos', meaning 'model' or 'type'.

Example

The syntypes of the newly discovered beetle species were carefully preserved in the entomology museum.

Synonyms

• Cotype

Related Terms

• Holotype
• Lectotype
• Paratype
• Type specimen

Usage Notes

If a holotype is later designated from among the syntypes, the remaining specimens become paratypes.