Common Names

Before submitting your name, read Recommendations for the Selection of English Common Names.  A common name should be simple, short, and should refer to characteristic or notable features of the insect, its habits, or habitat. Honoraria are of little communicative value. Direct translations from Latin Names may or may not be of value, since these are often based on some obscure characteristic of the adult.

To be included in the ESC’s approved list of insect common names, the species must occur in Canada and satisfy at least one of the following major criteria:

1. a) The species is imperiled and the focus of conservation efforts
2. b) The species is causing substantial ecological impact or economic loss
3. c) The species demonstrates a threat to human health
4. d) The species holds cultural or social value in Canada
5. e) The species is frequently observed or engaged with by the public

Submissions should be directed to Adam Brunke, with the phrase ‘Common names request’ in the subject line, and contain the following information:

• Your name and email
• The Latin name of the species
• The Order and Family
• The current English name (if applicable)
• The suggested English name
• The current French name (if applicable)
• The suggested French name
• Explanation of how the species satisfies the criteria for inclusion
• The reason for this suggestion
• Any additional notes relevant to the request

• To receive and assist in the preparation of proposals of common names in both French and English for insects and other related arthropods.

• To seek the assistance of the Entomological Society of Quebec in the proposal of French names.

• To foster the recognition and use of approved English and French common names in Canada.

• To strive for harmonization (whenever suitable) with existing English and French common names, such as those approved by other organizations, including the Entomological Society of America (ESA); newly approved names are shared with the ESA.