Nomenclature of Musca carnaria Linnaeus, 1758 : Diptera : Sarcophagidae

Abstract

The nomenclature of Musca carnaria Linnaeus, 1758, currently in the genus Sarcophaga Meigen, 1826, is succinctly reviewed. The original type material is discussed and argued to consist of at least one North American as well as several European specimens, with most of the latter no longer in existence. The lectotype designation and the resulting nomenclatural changes are discussed in light of recent critique. The lectotype designation is in agreement with the relevant articles of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, but by abandoning the (at that time) current usage it may arguably be considered too rigid an application of the Principle of Priority. As such, the lectotype designation may not have been optimal when proposed, yet the general acceptance in the scientific literature emerging during the last fifteen years provides hope for nomenclatural stability, and no contrary action is recommended.