Scaling up taxonomic training through a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) and descriptions of 4 new ant species in the genus <i>Nylanderia</i> (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Widespread concern about the “decline of taxonomy” has motivated calls to action to re-invigorate the field by enhancing taxonomic training, along with increasing taxonomy funding and positions, improving citation rates, and describing species more rapidly. Taxonomic training has historically been apprentice style, with individuals training for years under expert guidance. This approach offers a rich learning experience but inherently limits trainee number and relies on students’ earlier exposure to taxonomy. We describe a scaled-up taxonomic training model using a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) to provide early taxonomy research experience and broadly applicable scientific research skills. Results from a 45-student taxonomy-focused course conducted concurrently at 2 universities resulted in increased interest in taxonomic revisions and ability to explain taxonomic concepts, with one-third of students developing more interest in taxonomic careers. General science skill development was high when compared to a large sample of other CURE courses. The research focus of the course was taxonomic revision of the ant genus Nylanderia in Meso-America; students worked with instructors to delimit and describe new species. Here, we present 4 newly described species: Nylanderia ambulator, sp. nov. Nylanderia aurantia, sp. nov., Nylanderia collaborans, sp. nov., and Nylanderia maximon, sp. nov., with an additional 13 putative species noted for further revisionary work. This expanded taxonomic training model combines hands-on research experience with peer-learning and caters to students with minimal exposure to taxonomy. As a result, this approach broadens recruitment to more diverse audiences and results in enhanced awareness of and appreciation for taxonomy.