ICZN Article 75.1. Definition:
A neotype is the name-bearing type of a nominal species-group taxon designated under conditions specified in this Article when no name-bearing type specimen (i.e. holotype, lectotype, syntype or prior neotype) is believed to be extant and an author considers that a name-bearing type is necessary to define the nominal taxon objectively. The continued existence of paratypes or paralectotypes does not in itself preclude the designation of a neotype.
ICZN Article 75.2. Circumstances excluded
A neotype is not to be designated as an end in itself, or as a matter of curatorial routine, and any such neotype designation is invalid.
ICZN Article 75.3.6. evidence that the neotype came as nearly as practicable from the original type locality [Art. 76.1] and, where relevant, from the same geological horizon or host species as the original name-bearing type (see also Article 76.3 and Recommendation 76A.1).
ICZN article 76.3.
Type locality determined by the neotype:
The place of origin of the neotype becomes the type locality of the nominal species-group taxon, despite any previously published statement of the type locality.
I believe assigning a neotype from or near the type locality, or from other localities is preferable, unless there is a controversy regarding geographical isolation, as such isolation can eventually limit the species boundary. This supports both the article 75 and 76.
Designation of a neotype from a locality that is far away and ecologically different from the original type locality mentioned in the first description can shift the taxonomic identity of a species from the original population to another. This shift cascades into multiple changes: it alters how we understand the species’ geographic distribution and ecological traits, and it can drastically redirect the name’s application to a different population altogether, thereby creating confusion and potential instability in taxonomy.
In the world of integrative taxonomy, this creates a lot of turmoil. While attempting to stabilize and simplify taxonomy, the process may indirectly contradict issues related to the ‘Principle of the First Reviser’ in the ICZN Code.
A neotype should ideally come from the type locality. If it doesn’t, the author must argue convincingly that no better option exists and that the choice promotes nomenclatural stability. Otherwise, the designation is vulnerable to being overturned.
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