holotípust

Holotípust is the accusative singular form of holotípus in Hungarian, referring to the holotype in taxonomic work. The holotype is a single physical specimen designated as the type specimen upon which the description and name of a new species are based. It provides the principal reference point for the species' identity and name. The holotype is typically selected by the describing author at the time of publication and is deposited in a public scientific collection, such as a museum or herbarium, with a unique catalog number and detailed data on collection locality, date, and collector.

Related terms include paratype, lectotype, and neotype. If other specimens used in the description exist, they are paratypes; a lectotype may be designated from original material when no holotype was specified or the holotype is lost; a neotype may be designated to serve as the reference if no original material remains. The exact procedures are governed by nomenclature codes: the ICZN for animals, and the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN) for non-animal organisms.

Significance and limitations: The holotype anchors the species name to a tangible specimen and serves as the standard for comparisons in future taxonomic work. It is essential for resolving identification disputes, descriptions, and revisions. However, a holotype represents a single individual and may not capture the full variation of the species; preservation state and accessibility may also limit its usefulness. Modern studies often supplement the holotype with additional data, such as illustrations, photographs, and genetic information.