The starting point rules and stability of nomenclature

Abstract

Changes in the rules are contraproductive and in contradiction to the Preamble of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (Voss & al. 1983), especially if the consequences are insufficiently researched before binding, basic, retroactive alterations are introduced. The most confusing and upsetting alterations concern those accepted at Sydney with regard to the starting point rule, Art. 13.1 (d). It is recommended that Proposal 42 (Taxon 1984) be accepted at Berlin.