On the specific name of the Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus)

Abstract

The specific name monachus is widely accepted as valid with the only exception of the ornithological literature from Argentina and Uruguay, where it is generally replaced by monacha. Although the generic name is feminine. the correct specific name is monachus, a masculine noun meaning "monk" in latino. Since this was the original form in Psittacus monochus it should not be changed, given that only adjectival specific names alter gender when combined with a different generic name.