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Inconsistencies within the proposed framework for stabilizing fungal nomenclature risk further confusion

Summary

Scientists who study fungi have been working to update how fungal species are named to match modern genetic understanding. A recent proposal tried to create rules for how clinical laboratories should report fungal names, but experts are concerned that the new framework has inconsistencies and may actually cause more confusion rather than clarify things. The authors of this letter point out that some fungi get special naming considerations while others don’t, and worry that allowing multiple names for the same organism contradicts years of effort to use one standard name per species.

Background

Fungal nomenclature has undergone significant changes in recent years to reflect modern taxonomy. A recent publication by de Hoog and colleagues proposed a conceptual framework for nomenclatural stability of medically important fungi with endorsement from multiple professional organizations.

Objective

To critically examine the proposed framework for stabilizing fungal nomenclature and identify inconsistencies, clarity issues, and concerns regarding its implementation and oversight.

Results

The authors identified multiple inconsistencies in the proposed framework including differential application of nomenclatural stability concerns across species, contradictory reporting recommendations, and inconsistency with the ‘One Fungus One Name’ principle.

Conclusion

While stabilizing fungal nomenclature is important, the proposed framework requires clarification on consistency, transparent processes for professional society endorsement, consideration of diverse stakeholders, and reconciliation with existing officially recognized nomenclatural databases.
  • Published in:Journal of Clinical Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Letter to Editor / Critical Commentary,
  • Source: PMID: 38441055, DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01570-23
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