A review of subspecies recognition in polydesmidan millipedes (Diplopoda) with a revision of the subspecies of Euryuridae (Xystodesmoidea). (6th December 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jorgensen, Michael C.; Sierwald, Petra; Mason‐Gamer, Roberta J.
• Is Part Of: Zoologica scripta. Volume 42:Number 3(2013:May)
• Page Start: 317
• Page End: 326
• Publication Date: 2012-12-06
• Subjects: Zoology -- Periodicals; 590.5
• DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-3256

Abstract

Abstract : Jorgensen, M. C., Sierwald, P. & Mason‐Gamer, R. J. (2012). A review of subspecies recognition in polydesmidan millipedes (Diplopoda) with a revision of the subspecies of Euryuridae (Xystodesmoidea). — Zoologica Scripta, 42, 317–326. Taxonomic subspecies recognition is controversial due to the lack of an objective definition of the concept and inconsistent use of the category. The practice of designating subspecies is assessed here through a thorough review of 244 subspecies designations of polydesmidan millipedes over a 50‐year period. The survey focuses on the justification given for subspecies recognition, the amount of data available for the designation, the handling of nominate subspecies and the criteria used for diagnosis. We address several problematic issues and provide suggestions to enhance future work. Three examples of subdivided species from the Euryuridae (Polydesmida) are presented in detail with some taxonomic revision. Euryurus leachii leachii and E. leachii fraternus are synonymized, and the subspecific epithets are discarded. Auturus erythropygos erythropygos and A. erythropygos becki are returned to full species rank.