DALY, M: What’s in a name? Taxonomy, usage and circumscription in the genus Anthopleura (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Actiniaria)

Nomenclature evolves, as the circumscription, composition, and application of names adapt to the knowledge and needs of scientists. Taxonomic boundaries also evolve, as additional information about anatomy, life history and biology are incorporated into taxonomic circumscriptions. Discrepancies between the way a name is used and the intention of the original author can lead to confusion about the diversity and variability of a species. In the sea anemone genus Anthopleura, changes in nomenclature and circumscription have led to incongruity between the attributes defining the genus and the attributes of its nominal species. Inconsistent generic nomenclature, coupled with vague or incomplete original descriptions, has resulted in confusion and to the incorrect application of names. I explore the impact of various generic criteria on the composition and concept of Anthopleura, and illustrate how discrepancies between practical usage of a name and the actual circumscription of a species can confound the interpretation of physiological, ecological and phylogenetic research. This research is funded by NSF-PEET grant DEB 9978106 to D.G. Fautin.