In a landmark decision, scientists have taken a significant step towards inclusivity in the scientific community. At the International Botanical Congress in Madrid, researchers voted to remove over 200 offensive names from plant, fungi, and algae species. These names contained a racial slur related to the word “caffra,” a derogatory term used against Black people and others in southern Africa.
The proposal, spearheaded by Gideon Smith and Estrela Figueiredo from Nelson Mandela University, aims to replace these offensive names with derivatives of “afr” as a way to recognize Africa. This change will officially take effect in 2026. For instance, the coast coral tree will be known as Erythrina affra instead of Erythrina caffra.
The vote was closely contested, with 351 votes in favor and 205 opposed. The Congress also established a special committee to address other problematic names, including those honoring individuals who profited from the transatlantic slave trade. This committee will have the power to reject derogatory names given to newly described plants, fungi, and algae after 2026.
Kevin Thiele, a plant taxonomist at the Australia National University in Canberra, who spearheaded the proposal, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome. While acknowledging that it is a small step, he believes the creation of a naming ethics committee and rules for handling derogatory new names is a positive development for the field. This move signifies a growing awareness and commitment to inclusivity within the scientific community.
