An annotated checklist of mesoplodont whale species (Cetacea, Ziphiidae) discovered during the nineteenth century

Abstract

Eight species of mesoplodont whales (genus Mesoplodon Gervais, 1850) named during the nineteenth century are based on valid descriptions. A checklist with the original description and type material for each of these species is provided. Additional data given may include type locality and illustrative sources, type material holding institution and type registration number(s). The only type specimen for which a record of external morphology was published relates to the 1803 stranding of Sowerby's beaked whale (Mesoplodon bidens).