ICZN Article, 34.2: Species-group names
The ending of a Latin or latinized adjectival or participial species-group name must agree in gender with the generic name with which it is at any time combined [Art. 31.2]; if the gender ending is incorrect it must be changed accordingly (the author and date of the name remain unchanged [Art. 50.3.2]).
ICZN Article, 34.2.1:
If a species-group name is a noun in apposition its ending need not agree in gender with the generic name with which it is combined and must not be changed to agree in gender with the generic name [Art. 31.2.1].
Despite the provisions of the ICZN, many recently described species continue to use the adjectival ending -ensis for names derived from places or persons.
For instance, in naming a species after the city 'Pune', the form ‘punensis’ raises questions about linguistic correctness.
Should such names be reassessed and revised in light of ICZN Article 34.2.1?
The taxonomy of most groups keeps changing over time, and whether to use 'ensis' in the species name might be correct today. However, when there is a change in generic classification, this necessitates a change in the species' gender as well. I believe that changes in species gender are never-ending; however, if you are certain about the genus of the species you intend to describe, you may choose not to use 'ensis' when naming after a location.
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