Best Writing and Curatorial Practices for Describing a New Species of Beetle: a Primer

Abstract

Recommendations are provided for best writing and curatorial practices for describing a new species of beetle. These hallmarks of professionalism include constant adherence to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, defining the species concept used, correct grammar and punctuation used in formulating telegraphic species descriptions, curatorial practices for labeling type specimens, describing the holotype and then the variation of any paratypes as opposed to a single description for all of the syntypes, providing an etymology for the specific epithet, and the all-important diagnosis for the new taxon, and the possibilities of having the new species name entered into several widely used scientific databases or indices to increase awareness of the new taxon.