holotype

1. (taxonomy) The single physical example (or illustration) of an organism used to formally describe the species (or lower-order taxon), subsequently to be kept as a reference.Examples: "The holotype of this species is subglobular in shape and ammoniticonic in its mode of growth."; "The surface of the holotype bears seven rounded annulations which slope very slightly orad from the venter."; "Primary types include holotypes, lectotypes, and neotypes, while all other types (e.g., paratypes) are secondary types. A holotype is a unique, name-bearing type specimen designated by the original author. The holotype is the single individual of a species that serves as a voucher for a given species name. A holotype can be designated only by the original author and in the publication in which that author established its name."