Phylogenetic definitions and nomenclature of the major taxonomic categories of the carnivorous Dinosauria (Theropoda)

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Abstract
Standardized stem-based and node-based terms are proposed for the major groups of theropod dinosaurs recognized as relatively stable by recent phylogenetic analyses. The proposed terminology is intended to resolve conflict among names applied to the same clade, or sometimes applied without indication of whether the taxon is node-based or stem-based. In all cases but one, these names are already in the literature. We propose the new node-based name Eumaniraptora to refer to the most recent common ancestor of Deinonychus and Neornithes and all descendants of that ancestor. We also suggest the following points: (1) node- and stem-based taxa are preferable to apomorphy-based taxa because they are generally more stable; (2) names already used in the literature should be conserved as far as possible, though sometimes their basis requires adjustment (changing nodes to stems and vice versa and converting apomorphy-based taxa to stems and nodes); (3) the uses of some terms by some authors can be adjusted to reflect priority or common use; (4) in general, names should be based on well-resolved phylogenies; and (5) as a corollary, we recommend a moratorium on new names for theropodan nodes and stems until the phylogenetic relationships of theropodan sub-clades are better resolved.