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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: The nomenclature of many species in Mollicutes has been changed recently, which ones are the “correct names”? How do I choose? For example, Mycoplasma genitalium (LPSN link) was reclassified as Mycoplasmoides genitalium (LPSN link).
A1: These two names are synonyms, both are validly published under the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes (ICNP). An author can choose the preferred one to use in publications.
- ICSP Letter to All Subcommittees
  - https://www.the-icsp.org/images/reports/ICSP_letter_to_all_subcommittees_final%20161123.pdf
  - “… controversies arise from species being proposed for placement in other genera, accompanied by the proposal and valid publication of new combinations. While such proposals are simply an expression of taxonomic freedom, the same taxonomic freedom allows others to prefer an older validly published name for the same species, thereby implying the position of the species in another genus. One of the most serious misunderstandings of the ICNP is the belief that, in a series of homotypic synonyms, the last validly published name must be treated as the correct name.”
- List of Prokaryotic names with Standing in Nomenclature (LPSN)
  - https://lpsn.dsmz.de/text/faq#why-and-how-does-lpsn-assign-the-status-correct-name
  - “… a major misconception regarding the correct name is that, among a series of homotypic synonyms, the most recent validly published and legitimate name must be selected as the correct name.”

Q2: How do I name a new species?
A2: Follow the minimal standards for descriptions of new species; see references
- Engage with the Mollicutes research community prior to publication of changes is strongly advised.
- If further assistance is needed, please contact the subcommittee (see member list: here).