Definitions for "PARATYPE"
Specimen other than the holotype that the author uses when describing the species.
A specimen cited in the protologue other than the holotype or isotype(s; ICBN Art. 7). Comment: Once not included in the ICBN itself (but only in the "Guide for the Determination of Types"), paratypes cannot be searched to designate a lectotype. Judgement must be exercised on paratype status, for only rarely are specimens explicitly cited as paratypes, but usually as "specimens examined," "other material seen," etc.
Any specimen, other than the holotype, that the describer of a new species designates (in the original description) as belonging to that species.