What are the two types of species according to MPEP 806.04(b)?

According to MPEP 806.04(b), there are two types of species:

• Independent species: Species that are not connected in design, operation, or effect.
• Related species: Species that are connected in design, operation, or effect.

The MPEP states: “Species may be either independent or related as disclosed (see MPEP § 806.04 and § 806.04(b)) under the particular disclosure of the application.” This distinction is crucial for understanding how to handle different types of species claims in patent applications.

To learn more:

• species
• independent species
• related species
• patent application