Type specimen

According to the most recent 2000 edition of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature,[1] type specimen is "a term used in previous editions of the Code for a holotype, lectotype or neotype, or for any syntype; also used generally for any specimen of the type series (q.v.)."

Type specimen is synonomous with holotype: "The single specimen (except in the case of a hapantotype, q.v.) designated or otherwise fixed as the name-bearing type of a nominal species or subspecies when the nominal taxon is established."[2]

The Code also states: "73.1.4. Designation of an illustration of a single specimen as a holotype is to be treated as designation of the specimen illustrated; the fact that the specimen no longer exists or cannot be traced does not of itself invalidate the designation."

As recently as 2005 photographic evidence has proved sufficient for establishing a holotype for a newly discovered old world monkey, the highland mangabey or kipunji.[3]