Abstract
The 1999 edition of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999; hereafter referred to as the Code) provides guidance to all users of zoological nomina (names of taxa) that have been established and are regulated. Its rules and recommendations are widely respected, in particular by taxonomists and editors who so assure its universality. The zoological nomenclature is a language that actually contains millions of words, i.e. the nomina of taxa, and this number increases daily. Dealing with such numbers is a challenge and it is not surprising that also conflicts arise. In fact, the effects of the provisions and recommendations of the Code may be in practice opposite to the goals of the International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature as declared within the Code.