I have noticed that sometimes the word “complex” is added to binomial names, such as Black/grey Rat Snake Complex. I learned binomial nomenclature in the 1970s…can someone help fill me in?
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This should explain it pretty well:
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A species complex is a ‘species’ that is believed to comprise in fact a group of very similar and closely related species, but which it’s still not fully clear how they should be distinguished and divided. In other words, the “complex” part is saying “this is very likely more than one species, but we’ll treat them all as this one for now until such time as experts get it sorted out”.
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https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/857190-Pantherophis-alleghaniensis
It’s a rank in between genus and species.
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In recent years, the term “complex” has become more common in taxonomy to address groups of closely related species that are difficult to distinguish from one another. This usage reflects advances in genetic research and a better understanding of biodiversity. The “Black/grey Rat Snake Complex,” for example, signifies that the group includes multiple species or subspecies that are morphologically similar but might be genetically distinct or have different ecological roles. This addition to binomial names helps indicate that further research is needed to clarify their taxonomic status and relationships. It’s a way to acknowledge ongoing debates and complexities in species classification that might not have been apparent when binomial nomenclature was first standardized.
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