alleni

alleni is a Latin-derived species epithet used in the scientific names of organisms rather than a standalone taxon. In binomial nomenclature, alleni typically marks a species that was named in honor of a person with the surname Allen. The form is a masculine genitive, but variations exist to reflect gender or language conventions, such as allenae for a female honoree or allenii in some historical usages. The exact honoree and rationale are usually described in the original species description.

Etymology and usage

The epithet alleni originates from the practice of commemorating researchers, explorers, collectors, or patrons named Allen. As with many such honorifics, the intent is to acknowledge contribution to the discovery or study of the species. The same root may appear in numerous genera across different kingdoms, including animals, plants, and microorganisms, underscoring its role as a commemorative rather than descriptive term.

Taxonomic role

Because alleni is a species epithet, it appears in combination with a genus name (for example, in a two-part scientific name). It does not indicate taxonomic relationships by itself. The specific identity of the Allen honored can vary between taxa, and in some cases the original description names the individual; in others, the dedication may reflect an intent inferred by the author.

Notes and variations

As with other honorific epithets, the exact spelling and form of alleni can differ depending on the taxonomic code, linguistic convention, and the gender of the person honored. Similar epithets such as allenae or allenii exist in other contexts, reflecting analogous naming practices.

See also

Honorific species epithets; list of organisms named after people.