Inflation in the number of monospecific genera in brachiopods: progress or regression? A trivial approach to a real problem

Since the 19th century, about 1800 brachiopod genera or subgenera have been erected for the period covering the Silurian to the Devonian. In recent years, there has been a pronounced increase in the number of genera containing a single species. Without questioning the technological advances, one can, however, question the value and usefulness of monospecific genera both for systematics and palaeogeographical studies. Some editorial policy regarding erection of new monospecific genera and/or the evaluation of calls for projects are now needed.