A study on the etymology of the scientific names given to planarians (Platyhelminthes, tricladida) by Ernest Marcus’ school

Abstract

Leading zoologist and taxonomist Ernest Marcus (1893-1968) and his school described numerous new invertebrate taxa, including planarians, or triclads (Platyhelminthes). These authors rarely provided the etymology of names for the new taxa. In this paper, the etymology of 149 names of genera and specific epithets of planarians lacking etymology (or honoring people) is investigated. The etymology of most names was retrieved from original descriptive papers and from Eudóxia Maria Froehlich’s recollections, a fellow of Marcus’ school. It was discovered that the names were usually freely derived from words of the language spoken in the country where the species was found. Some names were motivated by an aspect of the biology of the species. Other names honored people or are arbitrary. The etymology of 19 names could not be retrieved and are only suggested. The origin of another 19 names could not be discovered, nor even their meaning. Knowing the etymology makes it easier to memorize a name and it is a way to preserve the historical and emotional aspects of the authors. Through the retrieved etymologies, the personality of Marcus can also be glimpsed.