Allow merging records into Synonyms in the Taxon Tree

[bhumikaguptaa]

Current Issue

When cleaning the taxon tree, if Robyn wants to merge two names where the target is a synonym, the system blocks the action and requires the target to be an accepted taxon first.

Current Workaround

To achieve this merge currently, Robyn must perform a workaround:

1. De-synonymize the target name.
2. Record the parent data manually to ensure it isn't lost.
3. Merge the duplicate name into the target.
4. Re-synonymize the target name.

Feature request

Add a system preference or a confirmation dialog that overrides the restriction. If enabled, the user can select two nodes and merge them, even if the target node is a synonym. The target node should remain a synonym after the merge is complete, retaining its original parent link. Robyn also mentions that the current workaround is prone to more errors.

Reported by

Robyn Drinkwater, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE)
Llink to issue: https://discourse.specifysoftware.org/t/merging-into-synonyms/3200

[heathercole]

Hello,
Heather Cole, from Agriculture & Agri-food Canada (AAFC) would also like this feature!
Thank you!