leucocephalus

Leucocephalus is a Latin-derived epithet used in biological nomenclature to mean “white-headed,” from leukos meaning white and kephalos meaning head. It is not a taxon in itself; rather, it appears in species names across different groups, where the describer noted a distinctive white head or a pale facial area.

In taxonomy, leucocephalus is an descriptive specific epithet that can occur within multiple genera. Because it is not tied to a single lineage, there is no standing taxon named Leucocephalus. Names bearing the epithet may be revised or synonymized as classifications change, but the term itself serves as a morphological descriptor rather than a diagnostic clade.

Etymology: from Greek elements meaning white head.

Taxonomic practice: Epithets like leucocephalus are common in the binomial system and convey a notable feature observed by the describer. They do not, by themselves, determine evolutionary relationships. To identify current status or validity of a species with this epithet, one should consult contemporary taxonomic databases and the original description.

See also: Latin binomial nomenclature, specific epithet, taxonomic nomenclature. Related color-based epithets and head-related descriptors appear in various forms across zoological and botanical names.

Notes: The exact usage of leucocephalus varies by author and taxon; it is best treated as a descriptive epithet rather than a standalone taxonomic group.