¿Cuál es el nombre común de Capra pyrenaica?: una revisión y una propuesta

Systematics of genus Capra and the inclusion of all its forms under the same scientific binomial remain controversial. In such context, the adoption of unique common names for each presently recognized species can become a relevant issue. With this work we propose the use of one exclusive vernacular name for Capra pyrenaica by scientific community under well defined criteria and in different languages. We revised a variety of vernacular names attributed to C. pyrenaica in scientific literature since beginning of 19th century to present, analysed circumstances on which they arose and frequency of their use through time. Results show that common names of C. pyrenaica usually carry a geographic character. Human factors (language of publication and nationality of authors) seem to influence the choice toward most frequently used vernacular name for the species. Period of publication also appear to determine common name used, but it does not reflect changes on species distribution range through time. An enquiry to Caprinae specialists indicates current distribution range and morphology as selected criteria to define species common name. Following these, we suggest “cabra montesa ibérica” and “Iberian wild goat” as vernacular names for C. pyrenaica in spanish and english, respectively.