Fajszámmal

Fajszámmal is a Hungarian-language descriptor used in taxonomy and biodiversity informatics to indicate that a record includes a numeric species code, or fajszám, accompanying the taxon's name. The term is typically applied to databases, catalogs, and metadata schemas that aim to stabilize species references beyond scientific names alone.

Etymology: It derives from faj (species) and szám (number) with the instrumental suffix -al, yielding "with a species number."

Use and purpose: In practice, fajszámmal records facilitate data integration across systems where taxonomic names may change due to revisions, splits, or reclassifications. A fajszám acts as a stable anchor, enabling reliable cross-linking of records in museums, herbaria, and digital biodiversity portals.

Limitations: The adoption of a fajszám is not standardized internationally; codes vary by institution or database and may require periodic updates. While helpful for disambiguation, they must be maintained alongside current taxonomy to avoid confusion if a species is synonymized or reclassified.

See also: Taxonomic coding, Biodiversity informatics, Catalogue of Life, Barcode of Life Data Systems.