Classification of Selaginellaceae and responses to “Rebuttal to ‘(2943) Proposal to conserve Selaginella, nom. cons., (Selaginellaceae) with a conserved type’: An unwarranted and disruptive idea”

Abstract

The proposal by Wan & al. intended to maintain maximal nomenclatural stability by proposing to conserve Selaginella (Selaginellaceae) with a conserved type, regardless of how and when Selaginella is to be split into several or more genera, as has already been done in some recent studies. Valdespino & al. do not seem to have understood the nomenclatural benefit of the Wan & al. proposal and mix up this proposal with the classification by Zhou & Zhang. In addition, their rebuttal paper appears to contain a number of issues. We respectably urge the Nomenclature Committee and the botanical community to reject their rebuttal and make a decision that will benefit long‐term nomenclatural stability in Selaginellaceae.